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Chicago on Ice #3
Save The Date
Chicago event planner Collins Brady knows how to make the magic happen for her clients. From elaborate weddings to cute baby showers, Collins knows what to do to make an experience breathtakingly perfect. In her mind, she adds the sparkle that makes everything shine.
If only she had that same sparkle in her personal life.
While she’s good at her job, her true career dreams lie elsewhere. If she could do anything, it would be to become an equestrian riding instructor. That dream, however, is shelved due to practicality. And that’s not the only thing Collins has shelved. After ending a relationship with her college sweetheart, Collins has taken her heart out of the game, too. She wonders if that magical kind of love can exist. But maybe it’s only a fantasy.
Or is it? All of that changes the night she meets Luca Ballerini, the rookie goalie for the Chicago Buffaloes. Passionate and fiercely determined, Luca has only made time for hockey in his life—until he meets Collins. Her spark hasn’t escaped him, and now Luca wants something other than his hockey career.
But following their dreams and hearts isn’t always easy. Can Collins and Luca find a way to live their dreams with each other?
Will love get past them? Or will this goalie make a perfect save of Collins’ heart?
If only she had that same sparkle in her personal life.
While she’s good at her job, her true career dreams lie elsewhere. If she could do anything, it would be to become an equestrian riding instructor. That dream, however, is shelved due to practicality. And that’s not the only thing Collins has shelved. After ending a relationship with her college sweetheart, Collins has taken her heart out of the game, too. She wonders if that magical kind of love can exist. But maybe it’s only a fantasy.
Or is it? All of that changes the night she meets Luca Ballerini, the rookie goalie for the Chicago Buffaloes. Passionate and fiercely determined, Luca has only made time for hockey in his life—until he meets Collins. Her spark hasn’t escaped him, and now Luca wants something other than his hockey career.
But following their dreams and hearts isn’t always easy. Can Collins and Luca find a way to live their dreams with each other?
Will love get past them? Or will this goalie make a perfect save of Collins’ heart?
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 17, 2017
120 people are currently reading
206 people want to read
About the author
Aven Ellis
45 books825 followersUSA Today bestselling author Aven Ellis began her publishing career in 2013 with her debut release, Connectivity. She currently writes romantic comedies featuring royals, billionaires, aristocrats, and athletes.
Her books are designed to make readers laugh out loud and fall in love. Happily-ever-after endings and good-boy heroes are guaranteed.
Aven lives in the Dallas area with her family. Aven loves shopping and fashion and can spend hours playing with fragrances in any department store. She can be found chatting it up on social media, eating speciality M&Ms, and crushing on the latest outfit the Duchess of Cambridge is wearing.
Her books are designed to make readers laugh out loud and fall in love. Happily-ever-after endings and good-boy heroes are guaranteed.
Aven lives in the Dallas area with her family. Aven loves shopping and fashion and can spend hours playing with fragrances in any department store. She can be found chatting it up on social media, eating speciality M&Ms, and crushing on the latest outfit the Duchess of Cambridge is wearing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
May 9, 2017
Finally, the Goalie gets his story! Seriously, what would a hockey team be without a goalie? What would a goalie be without someone to love? It’s lonely down there in the net and there is always a second string goalies just one score away from taking your position. Luca is living his dream, but sometime she is too wrapped up in being the best he can be.
Collins is the event planner who knows how to make things shine, even if she is dealing with a bridezilla or the dreaded Monster of the Bride. It’s her personal life that is dull, because she has a dream and it isn’t dealing with weddings or banquets, but how does she follow her dreams when others need her? Did I mention her love life is non-existent?
….and then they meet, the Goalie with the heart, the romantic side and the need for someone as special as the Event Planner. Their meeting isn’t magical, but their connection is like rockets going off. The banter is easy, there is no pressure, but wow, there is romance, human flaws and misunderstandings, lack of communication and, wait, sounds like love, to me! Yep, real, honest to goodness love.
The question is, is it possible to have it all? Are these two capable of reaching their dreams together? Clearly another case of Teamwork of the Heart and Aven Ellis is back with her playbook of fun romance and happily ever afters!
Save the Date is what love is all about, encouragement, working through tough times and compromise! Aven Ellis knows how to make heroes that are hot enough to melt ice, not just with their looks, but with their heart, and heroines who are strong, sweet, sassy, yet smart enough to want the love that stands right in front of her. Luca and Collins may be one of her sweetest couples yet!
A little quirky, a little swoon-worthy and just right to put a smile on your face as once again, Love scores with an assist from Cupid and Aven Ellis, this book's MVP!
I received an ARC edition from Aven Ellis in exchange for my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Chicago on Ice - Book 3
Publisher: Soul Mate Publishing, LLC (May 17, 2017)
Publication Date: May 17, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romantic | Sports
Print Length: 230 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
April 21, 2017
What can I say that I haven't already said about a book by Aven Ellis? Save The Date is another highly enjoyable and truly pleasurable stories to read, and I am running out of new ways to try and explain just how much I love these books.
In Luca Ballerini, the author has created another dream man, and given me yet another book boyfriend. He is wonderful and I was falling for him within the first few minutes of meeting him. He is a dedicated goalie that wants nothing more than to help Collins realise her true working dreams. He is willing to put up with Collins' addiction to Pumpkin Spice, and seems to love every single freckle on her face. He is a just a wonderful man to get to know and I really wish he was real!
Callie is working for her aunts event planning company and a lot of the laughs in the book come from the Momzilla of the wedding she is trying to plan, and also the pregnant mom in a baby shower, whose cravings seem to change by the second!
It was fabulous meeting back up with Livy, Aubrey, Landon and Beckett from the first two books in the Chicago on Ice story, and seeing how they are progressing. However if you haven't read the others in the series, then don't worry as this can definitely be read as a standalone story.
I loved how much time and effort Luca puts into being a goalie. I used to play that position in a different sport and can't help but wish I had his instincts, or determination to study to the opposition when I was younger. Whenever Callie was around her horse, it was clear she was a different person and I was really enjoying the horsey side to this book.
Save The Date is a easy, fast read that is pure escapism. I devoured it far too fast, as I was enjoying the story that much and I am already wishing I had more books by Aven Ellis to read (but I've read them all so far).
Thank you so much to Aven Ellis for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
July 17, 2021
Four Stars!
This was another cute romance from the Chicago on Ice series. I enjoyed reading Collins & Luca’s story and once again found myself swooning with how everything played out. The more books that I read of this series, the more I am loving the friendship of the main girls. This series is not just about the love but also about the strong female relationships. Of course, catching up with the previous couples also made me happy. I’m excited to move on to the final book ASAP.
This was another cute romance from the Chicago on Ice series. I enjoyed reading Collins & Luca’s story and once again found myself swooning with how everything played out. The more books that I read of this series, the more I am loving the friendship of the main girls. This series is not just about the love but also about the strong female relationships. Of course, catching up with the previous couples also made me happy. I’m excited to move on to the final book ASAP.
March 23, 2020
*Book provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Welcome back to Chicago, where the Chicago Buffaloes have their home. If you have read Livy's and Aubrey's stories you already know Collins.
Collins Brady broke up with her long term boyfriend, because she didn't see a future with him. Especially her mum and of course Gabe himself were not happy with this. Collins works as an event planner and has a great passion for horses. At the beginning of the story, she is at an event she organized, it's actually Livy and Landon's engagement party, which is just very exciting. Anyway, back to Collins. That's the night she meets Luca Ballerini, the new goalie for the Chicago Buffaloes. The is mesmerized by him from the start and vice versa. It's actually really cute, when and why his interest for her started. The have areal connection from the start and Aven Ellis captures their chemistry beautifully. I loved following their journey, them getting to know each other and falling in love.
Both characters have their fears, insecurities or their strict structures, which causes drama from time to time.
I loved the big hockey aspect if this book. We get to be at a game with the girls and watch Luca, we get it from Lica's preparations and even from far away. This makes the story even for exciting and gives the rest of the storyline a fab change. And Lica is a goalie, that brings a different aspect as well. The fact that Livy, Aubrey, Landon and Beckett are there too is wonderful. We still get to read things about their future as well and we also get introduced to new characters. This was actually one of my fave scenes, when Taylor is with the girls and Hunter Riley comes out of the blue! ;)
Oh and William Cumberland gets a mention as well, this made me so happy.
Aven Ellis has a fresh, young, romantic, passionate, vivid and exciting style of writing. She knows what she is doing and creates fantastic characters. The structure of her storylines are always very similar. Now, there are to ways about what to think about this. Some people love it, because it gives the writer a style and you recognize their writing again. However, it can also get boring and predictable. I know where these people are coming for and I actually agree, it can get boring. Scenes or characteristics can seem similar, but it's actually about the words, the style and the little unique things, the amazing atmosphere around the story and Aven Ellis definitely has this.
This book actually gives me butterflies, because the feelings between Collins and Luca come through the book in such a real and great way. Their intimate moments are adorable and they just belong together. Combined with hockey this is the perfect package for a book.
If you need a book to help you escape daily life for a while, this in the one!!! Just FABULOUS!
Welcome back to Chicago, where the Chicago Buffaloes have their home. If you have read Livy's and Aubrey's stories you already know Collins.
Collins Brady broke up with her long term boyfriend, because she didn't see a future with him. Especially her mum and of course Gabe himself were not happy with this. Collins works as an event planner and has a great passion for horses. At the beginning of the story, she is at an event she organized, it's actually Livy and Landon's engagement party, which is just very exciting. Anyway, back to Collins. That's the night she meets Luca Ballerini, the new goalie for the Chicago Buffaloes. The is mesmerized by him from the start and vice versa. It's actually really cute, when and why his interest for her started. The have areal connection from the start and Aven Ellis captures their chemistry beautifully. I loved following their journey, them getting to know each other and falling in love.
Both characters have their fears, insecurities or their strict structures, which causes drama from time to time.
I loved the big hockey aspect if this book. We get to be at a game with the girls and watch Luca, we get it from Lica's preparations and even from far away. This makes the story even for exciting and gives the rest of the storyline a fab change. And Lica is a goalie, that brings a different aspect as well. The fact that Livy, Aubrey, Landon and Beckett are there too is wonderful. We still get to read things about their future as well and we also get introduced to new characters. This was actually one of my fave scenes, when Taylor is with the girls and Hunter Riley comes out of the blue! ;)
Oh and William Cumberland gets a mention as well, this made me so happy.
Aven Ellis has a fresh, young, romantic, passionate, vivid and exciting style of writing. She knows what she is doing and creates fantastic characters. The structure of her storylines are always very similar. Now, there are to ways about what to think about this. Some people love it, because it gives the writer a style and you recognize their writing again. However, it can also get boring and predictable. I know where these people are coming for and I actually agree, it can get boring. Scenes or characteristics can seem similar, but it's actually about the words, the style and the little unique things, the amazing atmosphere around the story and Aven Ellis definitely has this.
This book actually gives me butterflies, because the feelings between Collins and Luca come through the book in such a real and great way. Their intimate moments are adorable and they just belong together. Combined with hockey this is the perfect package for a book.
If you need a book to help you escape daily life for a while, this in the one!!! Just FABULOUS!
June 11, 2017
*** I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ***
Woo hoo! My favourite Aven Ellis is back with the latest book in her Chicago on Ice series. 'Save the Date' is all about Event Planner Collins Brady and Chicago Buffaloes Rookie goalie Luca Ballerini, and it didn't take long for me to become engrossed in their story.
Collins was a sweetheart, and as for Luca well, I do love a sexy man with an accent, so he was a hit with me. There's an instant attraction when these two meet, but the course of true love doesn't always run smoothly, and Luca and Collins soon discover if they want a future together they both need to make a compromise or two and make time for time for what's important.
Save The Date was a warm, enjoyable romantic read. The plot was cute, endearing, and funny and one you can devour in an afternoon. It had Aven's perfect balance of love, humour, friendship, family and a little drama with likeable main characters and entertaining secondary characters that you want to have as friends.
Another Aven Ellis book I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.
Woo hoo! My favourite Aven Ellis is back with the latest book in her Chicago on Ice series. 'Save the Date' is all about Event Planner Collins Brady and Chicago Buffaloes Rookie goalie Luca Ballerini, and it didn't take long for me to become engrossed in their story.
Collins was a sweetheart, and as for Luca well, I do love a sexy man with an accent, so he was a hit with me. There's an instant attraction when these two meet, but the course of true love doesn't always run smoothly, and Luca and Collins soon discover if they want a future together they both need to make a compromise or two and make time for time for what's important.
Save The Date was a warm, enjoyable romantic read. The plot was cute, endearing, and funny and one you can devour in an afternoon. It had Aven's perfect balance of love, humour, friendship, family and a little drama with likeable main characters and entertaining secondary characters that you want to have as friends.
Another Aven Ellis book I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.
May 15, 2017
Luca is a hockey goalie obsessed with constantly trying to improve his game. Collins is an events planner, and she does a great job, but her heart is in working with horses.
The two hit it off instantly at a mutual friend's engagement party. After a few dates, it's obvious they fit together perfectly. Collins tries desperately for Luca to see that he is already great at what he does and shouldn't devote so much time to training and nothing else. Luca has his mind made up that he will help Collins' dream of working with horses come true. But between Luca's unwavering hockey dedication, and Collins' fear of hurting Luca like she did with her last boyfriend, can the two of them overcome the obstacles and believe their love is real and meant to last?
This book gave me butterflies. Every single one of Aven's books seems to be a favorite, but honestly, Luca and Collins' story is in the top spot at the moment! The easy way they joke between each other over Collins' love of pumpkin spice and seasonal flavored treats, and the fact that Luca loves every single freckle on Collins' face (that her mom desperately wants her to cover) to the more intimate moments-the heat between these two is enough to melt the ice but the sweet romance just warms your heart.
Save the date for this winning romance-it releases 5/17/17!!
I was gifted a copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
The two hit it off instantly at a mutual friend's engagement party. After a few dates, it's obvious they fit together perfectly. Collins tries desperately for Luca to see that he is already great at what he does and shouldn't devote so much time to training and nothing else. Luca has his mind made up that he will help Collins' dream of working with horses come true. But between Luca's unwavering hockey dedication, and Collins' fear of hurting Luca like she did with her last boyfriend, can the two of them overcome the obstacles and believe their love is real and meant to last?
This book gave me butterflies. Every single one of Aven's books seems to be a favorite, but honestly, Luca and Collins' story is in the top spot at the moment! The easy way they joke between each other over Collins' love of pumpkin spice and seasonal flavored treats, and the fact that Luca loves every single freckle on Collins' face (that her mom desperately wants her to cover) to the more intimate moments-the heat between these two is enough to melt the ice but the sweet romance just warms your heart.
Save the date for this winning romance-it releases 5/17/17!!
I was gifted a copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
May 22, 2017
Love everything Aven does. Luca is a dream. I've gotta go find me a hockey player.
May 22, 2017
review to come
December 15, 2018
I dunno ... I love Aven Ellis but this one felt rushed. It was very insta love. They barely even meet before they're SUPER SERIOUS and there was NO build up to their friendship - just instant chemistry and instant relationship. She's dropped hints in other books like she always does - looking at YOU Taylor and Beck's brother - but it was just too fast. And I'm sorry, but the 21 year old goalie who sees a hot girl, instantly realizes she's "The One," dates her and proposes in 6 months? Honey I'm a jaded old lady in training, but no. You're an infant. Maybe give that relationship another 6 months since you know, IT'S YOUR FIRST ONE.
Potentially unpopular opinions aside, we really didn't get to know Luca in this book like we have the other hockey boyfriends. Maybe they're just getting formulaic or maybe this one just wasn't meant for me. Regardless, I'll keep reading them anyway because I love me some cameos.
Potentially unpopular opinions aside, we really didn't get to know Luca in this book like we have the other hockey boyfriends. Maybe they're just getting formulaic or maybe this one just wasn't meant for me. Regardless, I'll keep reading them anyway because I love me some cameos.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2024
Two stars because I finished it. This is something thirteen year old me would have enjoyed full of PG Love *Bombing*, an inordinate amount of PSLs, and juvenile unrealistic expectations.
September 7, 2025
Save the Date by Aven Ellis (2017)
Chicago On Ice #3
+286-page Kindle Ebook story pages 1-280
I have the 2023 Re-edited Version
Genre: Sports Romance > Hockey
Featuring: Event Planner, Wisconsin, Characters From Previous Books, Engagement Party, Family Business, Overbearing Mother, Chicago, Illinois; Crush Starts in Previous Book, Professional Hockey Player, Family Dynamics, Hometown Hero, Equestrian, Horse, Pumpkin Spice, Autumn Season, Wedding Planning, Suppressed Emotions, Merging Storyline For Book 4, Communication, November, Self-Actualization, Rules, Sex, February, Bonus Chapter, Author's Links to Newsletter, Facebook Group and Patreon - Bonus Stories; Bibliography for Aven Ellis with Amazon Links
Rating as a movie: R for adult content
Songs for the soundtrack: "Sparks Fly" by Taylor Swift, "Begin Again" by Taylor Swift
Books and Authors mentioned: Cinderella by Charles Perrault
My rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🎊🥳🏒🏇
My thoughts: 🔖Page 72 of 286 Chapter Ten - They have not mentioned Taylor Swift one time so far but it seems like her lyrics are everywhere.
🔖99 Chapter Fourteen - It was good but I feel a lull coming.
This is a good story. It had a lot of branches but it had a good realistic reason for a third act, although the solution was instant. Because so much of the story focused on the characters from Book 4, as the did with these characters in Book 2, I feel fully vested in their story and I need to read Book for see what I already know will happen with Taylor and Hunter.
Recommend to others: Yes, this series gets better with each book.
Chicago on Ice
1. The Aubrey Rules (2016)
2. Trivial Pursuits (2017)
3. Save the Date (2017)
4. The Bottom Line (2019)
Memorable Quotes: “This coming from the woman who called his butt prime?” Livy asks, cocking an eyebrow. “Luca never saw me looking,” Nana insists. “I’m in the invisible stage of life. It’s fantastic for checking out the younger ones. I don’t have to worry about being discreet because nobody thinks a grandma would look. I’m old. Not dead. Thank God, or I’d miss sights like that. Mmm. Besides,” she adds, shifting her gaze to me, “the goalie only has eyes for two things in life. Pucks. And you.”
She reads the message aloud. “Taylor. Nana. If the hockey player has a nice butt, you give him your number or I will do it for you. Life is too short to miss opportunities like this one. He asked for your number. Not your ring size.” Taylor hands me back the phone, and I can tell she’s mulling over the advice. “She’s right,” Aubrey says. “My nana is never wrong,” Livy says. Her phone buzzes, and a smile spreads across her face.
Chicago On Ice #3
+286-page Kindle Ebook story pages 1-280
I have the 2023 Re-edited Version
Genre: Sports Romance > Hockey
Featuring: Event Planner, Wisconsin, Characters From Previous Books, Engagement Party, Family Business, Overbearing Mother, Chicago, Illinois; Crush Starts in Previous Book, Professional Hockey Player, Family Dynamics, Hometown Hero, Equestrian, Horse, Pumpkin Spice, Autumn Season, Wedding Planning, Suppressed Emotions, Merging Storyline For Book 4, Communication, November, Self-Actualization, Rules, Sex, February, Bonus Chapter, Author's Links to Newsletter, Facebook Group and Patreon - Bonus Stories; Bibliography for Aven Ellis with Amazon Links
Rating as a movie: R for adult content
Songs for the soundtrack: "Sparks Fly" by Taylor Swift, "Begin Again" by Taylor Swift
Books and Authors mentioned: Cinderella by Charles Perrault
My rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🎊🥳🏒🏇
My thoughts: 🔖Page 72 of 286 Chapter Ten - They have not mentioned Taylor Swift one time so far but it seems like her lyrics are everywhere.
🔖99 Chapter Fourteen - It was good but I feel a lull coming.
This is a good story. It had a lot of branches but it had a good realistic reason for a third act, although the solution was instant. Because so much of the story focused on the characters from Book 4, as the did with these characters in Book 2, I feel fully vested in their story and I need to read Book for see what I already know will happen with Taylor and Hunter.
Recommend to others: Yes, this series gets better with each book.
Chicago on Ice
1. The Aubrey Rules (2016)
2. Trivial Pursuits (2017)
3. Save the Date (2017)
4. The Bottom Line (2019)
Memorable Quotes: “This coming from the woman who called his butt prime?” Livy asks, cocking an eyebrow. “Luca never saw me looking,” Nana insists. “I’m in the invisible stage of life. It’s fantastic for checking out the younger ones. I don’t have to worry about being discreet because nobody thinks a grandma would look. I’m old. Not dead. Thank God, or I’d miss sights like that. Mmm. Besides,” she adds, shifting her gaze to me, “the goalie only has eyes for two things in life. Pucks. And you.”
She reads the message aloud. “Taylor. Nana. If the hockey player has a nice butt, you give him your number or I will do it for you. Life is too short to miss opportunities like this one. He asked for your number. Not your ring size.” Taylor hands me back the phone, and I can tell she’s mulling over the advice. “She’s right,” Aubrey says. “My nana is never wrong,” Livy says. Her phone buzzes, and a smile spreads across her face.
November 23, 2017
Collins is an event planner. Her mother taught her to avoid unpleasantness at all times and to always have a smile on her face. Collins has been in a steady relationship with Gabe, but when she thinks about the next step, she knows that he is not the one for her. Collins has her own horse, Mayor, and her dream is to work with horses every single day. Will Collins be able to find a way to make her dreams come true?
Luca knew from an early age that playing hockey is what he was born to do. He put everything aside and is now the starting goalie of the Buffalo Bulls. Hockey is all he lives for and he doesn't really have a life outside the ranks. Luca saw a picture of Collins when she was modelling for her friend's jewelry line. He never forgot about her and when he sees her at a party she planned Luca can't wait to officially meet her. He wants to be Collins's Prince Charming, but will he be able to balance his passion for hockey and his love for her?
Collins is unique and stands out in a crowd. She has freckles all over, but instead of covering them up she learns to embrace her exceptional beauty. She's very good at her job and is a loving friend. Being an animal lover myself I liked how she talks about her horse Mayor. Everyone deserves to do something they enjoy and I was wishing for her to find her way to happiness. I couldn't wait to see if Luca would be the man to help with that. Luca has never been in a relationship before, but he's a fast learner. He's incredibly passionate about hockey and I love that kind of determination in people. Luca is a kind man and always takes the time for his fans after a game. He's a beautiful man inside and out and I was rooting for him and Collins to make their relationship work.
Save the Date is another feelgood love story by Aven Ellis. When I'm looking for a relaxing read I know I can't go wrong with one of her books. I love her sense of humor and she always makes me laugh out loud. Her characters each have something quirky and this makes them unique. I'm a little weird myself and I really like to read about the little things that are making people tick. I am a big fan of the Chicago on Ice series and hope Aven Ellis will write a lot more stories about the great characters in these books.
Luca knew from an early age that playing hockey is what he was born to do. He put everything aside and is now the starting goalie of the Buffalo Bulls. Hockey is all he lives for and he doesn't really have a life outside the ranks. Luca saw a picture of Collins when she was modelling for her friend's jewelry line. He never forgot about her and when he sees her at a party she planned Luca can't wait to officially meet her. He wants to be Collins's Prince Charming, but will he be able to balance his passion for hockey and his love for her?
Collins is unique and stands out in a crowd. She has freckles all over, but instead of covering them up she learns to embrace her exceptional beauty. She's very good at her job and is a loving friend. Being an animal lover myself I liked how she talks about her horse Mayor. Everyone deserves to do something they enjoy and I was wishing for her to find her way to happiness. I couldn't wait to see if Luca would be the man to help with that. Luca has never been in a relationship before, but he's a fast learner. He's incredibly passionate about hockey and I love that kind of determination in people. Luca is a kind man and always takes the time for his fans after a game. He's a beautiful man inside and out and I was rooting for him and Collins to make their relationship work.
Save the Date is another feelgood love story by Aven Ellis. When I'm looking for a relaxing read I know I can't go wrong with one of her books. I love her sense of humor and she always makes me laugh out loud. Her characters each have something quirky and this makes them unique. I'm a little weird myself and I really like to read about the little things that are making people tick. I am a big fan of the Chicago on Ice series and hope Aven Ellis will write a lot more stories about the great characters in these books.
May 17, 2017
So, I have the biggest smile on my face right now. I really enjoyed Save the Date by Aven Ellis!
When we were first introduced to Collins Brady, I was really curious about her character. She seemed so kind and relatable, therefore I had to know why she put pressure on herself to appear a certain way at times. Then there was the whole situation with her ex-boyfriend. What exactly happened there?
I got all my answers and then some. I have to say- Collins (along with Aubrey and Lexi) is one of my favorite of Ellis' female characters. I loved her passion for horses and how she approached her job as an event planner. That's one of the things that I especially LOVE about these books. Ellis really does her research, and thus I get to experiences various careers and hobbies that I would have otherwise known little about. This includes the good and the bad parts of the jobs. I feel like can go to work with these characters and experience a day in their shoes, all from the comfort of my couch (ha!).
I am so so happy that the love interest was a hockey goalie! Although I really love my D-men (defencemen), I have a soft spot for goalies. They have one of the most competive jobs and they have to be on top of their game at all times. They also have to do so much in the way of conditioning and preparation (more than the other players). And let's face it, goalies are known to be...odd. So, that makes them really cool and intriguing in my book. Luca encompassed all of these things! Not only was he dreamy, sweet, and mature, but he had some of those quirks and he felt that pressure that NHL goalies face. He was believable. I loved that he didn't change overnight, but that he really had to come to tearms with what was important. I adored the chemistry with him and Collins.
Once again, Aven Ellis' storytelling has allowed me that escape that I desperately needed, and to submerse myself into the fantasy world I could only dream about being a part of. I am so sad that I have to wait a while for the next Chicago On Ice book. I can already tell that I am going to love Taylor's character (hello, nachos!!).
When we were first introduced to Collins Brady, I was really curious about her character. She seemed so kind and relatable, therefore I had to know why she put pressure on herself to appear a certain way at times. Then there was the whole situation with her ex-boyfriend. What exactly happened there?
I got all my answers and then some. I have to say- Collins (along with Aubrey and Lexi) is one of my favorite of Ellis' female characters. I loved her passion for horses and how she approached her job as an event planner. That's one of the things that I especially LOVE about these books. Ellis really does her research, and thus I get to experiences various careers and hobbies that I would have otherwise known little about. This includes the good and the bad parts of the jobs. I feel like can go to work with these characters and experience a day in their shoes, all from the comfort of my couch (ha!).
I am so so happy that the love interest was a hockey goalie! Although I really love my D-men (defencemen), I have a soft spot for goalies. They have one of the most competive jobs and they have to be on top of their game at all times. They also have to do so much in the way of conditioning and preparation (more than the other players). And let's face it, goalies are known to be...odd. So, that makes them really cool and intriguing in my book. Luca encompassed all of these things! Not only was he dreamy, sweet, and mature, but he had some of those quirks and he felt that pressure that NHL goalies face. He was believable. I loved that he didn't change overnight, but that he really had to come to tearms with what was important. I adored the chemistry with him and Collins.
Once again, Aven Ellis' storytelling has allowed me that escape that I desperately needed, and to submerse myself into the fantasy world I could only dream about being a part of. I am so sad that I have to wait a while for the next Chicago On Ice book. I can already tell that I am going to love Taylor's character (hello, nachos!!).
May 17, 2017
Having read the other books in this series, I couldn't wait to read Luca andf Collins story. What I love about this author is she writes stories that could take place in my town, my life. These are real people with real problems. There is no horrific bombshells just waiting to go off that are magically weaved into nothing in the last chapter.
Collins is unsatisfied with her life but doing what she thinks her family wants her to. She's good at it so why not just keep going on existing in a life that has no fulfillment for her.
In walks Luca, who challenges everything she is and encourages her to go for what she wants. Trouble is....Collins wants Luca, for ever and always.
One click this book if you love hockey, real love. From their first meeting, I couldn't wait for their HEA. I enjoyed every page of this book as I watched them fall in love, with some rough roads along the way. I HIGHLY recommend this book and all of this author's other books. She is an amazingly gifted writer, who has a unique style of her own. You will love it!
Collins is unsatisfied with her life but doing what she thinks her family wants her to. She's good at it so why not just keep going on existing in a life that has no fulfillment for her.
In walks Luca, who challenges everything she is and encourages her to go for what she wants. Trouble is....Collins wants Luca, for ever and always.
One click this book if you love hockey, real love. From their first meeting, I couldn't wait for their HEA. I enjoyed every page of this book as I watched them fall in love, with some rough roads along the way. I HIGHLY recommend this book and all of this author's other books. She is an amazingly gifted writer, who has a unique style of her own. You will love it!
April 30, 2019
Amazing story!
I loved this story! I have not read the first two books in this series yet, but I will be. I loved how Collins and Luca got together and overcame their issues and can't wait to see how the other couples find their happiness. And there's Nana, who is great for comedic relief. This is a one sitting read, so before you sit down to read this, be sure to have a snack and a drink close, although I wouldn't take a page from the book and drink shots of whiskey or whiskey sours. The hero is a hockey player, but hockey is not that huge a part of the story that you have to like or understand hockey to like this book. The author does a great job integrating explanations of hockey into the story. This is a great story and I can't wait to read more of this author and this series!
I loved this story! I have not read the first two books in this series yet, but I will be. I loved how Collins and Luca got together and overcame their issues and can't wait to see how the other couples find their happiness. And there's Nana, who is great for comedic relief. This is a one sitting read, so before you sit down to read this, be sure to have a snack and a drink close, although I wouldn't take a page from the book and drink shots of whiskey or whiskey sours. The hero is a hockey player, but hockey is not that huge a part of the story that you have to like or understand hockey to like this book. The author does a great job integrating explanations of hockey into the story. This is a great story and I can't wait to read more of this author and this series!
May 22, 2017
Truth be told, I don't Aven could ever not write a 5 star book. Seriously, there's something inside her that sets up the perfect stories, from the leads, to the outfits, to the black moments. Save the Date has everything you want in a romcom and more. Luca is a HOT goalie who you'll be daydreaming about long after you finish. And Collins is the bestie you need to finish off your squad. You'll need to clear your weekend cause you won't be able to put Save the Date down. If you love stories that are written so well you feel like you're right there living with the characters, then start with Save the Date and then pick up the rest of Aven's books, cause you'll be hooked! I highly recommend this 5 star book if you're looking for your next get sucked in for the weekend read!
Polishedandbubbly.com
Polishedandbubbly.com
May 13, 2017
Luca Ballerini is such a swoon worthy man. He comes across older than he actually is but he is definitely a true gentleman.
Collins (love her name) isn't quite living the life she would like to, and she doesn't really know how she can go about changing that. What she does know is that she is falling in love with the starting goaltender for the Chicago Buffaloes.
I absolutely adored reading this book be Aven Ellis. I must admit I fell a little in love with Luca. He has to be one of the best written lead male characters I have read in awhile.
Collins & Luca make a beautiful couple, that even though they have a few hiccups, they are just perfect together.
Cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book
Collins (love her name) isn't quite living the life she would like to, and she doesn't really know how she can go about changing that. What she does know is that she is falling in love with the starting goaltender for the Chicago Buffaloes.
I absolutely adored reading this book be Aven Ellis. I must admit I fell a little in love with Luca. He has to be one of the best written lead male characters I have read in awhile.
Collins & Luca make a beautiful couple, that even though they have a few hiccups, they are just perfect together.
Cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book
May 18, 2017
I first found Aven Ellis' books when I got a copy of The Aubrey Rules. I instantly fell in love! With the main characters, with the writing and with the secondary characters! I was so happy to learn that Collins was getting her own book! Luca and Collins were made for each other and have a swoon-worthy romance!! I loved the little jokes about how she was an older woman. If you are looking for a book that makes you laugh(especially Nana), makes you feel like you are right there with the characters as they fall in love, and just an all around feel good romance than pick this book up!
October 13, 2019
I loved it
A great addition to the Chicago on Ice Series. Collins is just out of a long term relationship that didn't work out, so she has thrown herself into her job as an event planner, until she meets Luca. Luca is the new starting goalie for the Chicago Buffaloes and after seeing a picture of Collins on a mutual friends website he knows he has to meet this woman. But between his games and her events, good luck finding time for a date! I'm loving this series and all the characters created for it. I can't wait for the next book.
A great addition to the Chicago on Ice Series. Collins is just out of a long term relationship that didn't work out, so she has thrown herself into her job as an event planner, until she meets Luca. Luca is the new starting goalie for the Chicago Buffaloes and after seeing a picture of Collins on a mutual friends website he knows he has to meet this woman. But between his games and her events, good luck finding time for a date! I'm loving this series and all the characters created for it. I can't wait for the next book.
June 13, 2022
It's rare for me to find a series where each book is better than the last, but Aven Ellis definitely has made it happen. Luca is the rookie goalie for the Chicago hockey team and he's focused on nothing more than keeping his spot on the team. He meets Collins and they have to work together to figure out priorities, life goals, relationship conflicts and finding their happily ever after. Both Luca and Collins are young, but this isn't a typical college-age romance, and it was a fantastic read from page one to the very satisfying HEA.
June 29, 2018
Loving this series!
I am so loving this series! I can relate to Collins putting her dreams on hold and forgetting what is really important in life. I love the support and love from Luca, he is everything that is perfect but also imperfect as well. That’s life though, the imperfections are what real life is, and going after your dreams not matter how long it takes to succeed, but also remembering to live life. That’s everyone’s truth.
I am so loving this series! I can relate to Collins putting her dreams on hold and forgetting what is really important in life. I love the support and love from Luca, he is everything that is perfect but also imperfect as well. That’s life though, the imperfections are what real life is, and going after your dreams not matter how long it takes to succeed, but also remembering to live life. That’s everyone’s truth.
September 4, 2018
Uncaged Review: Collins is an event planer hosting an engagement party one night. She meets Luca a hockey player. Has Collins found Prince Charming or is she destined to be forever looking. For her Prince riding in on a horse to save her. Who says fairy tales are only meant for books. I completely devoured this book it was romantic and magical. A must read can also be read as a standalone novel. Reviewed by Jennifer
May 17, 2017
What can you say about an author who puts so much into her characters and stories? This author does it with every book! Every book I get the butterflies in my stomach with the first kiss! Every book I swoon as I see the characters fall in love! Every book you get drawn into the secondary characters so much so that you want them to get their own story. These books are the epitome of romance!
Collins and Luca are both a little hesitant for love. Both for their own reasons. But Luca has been a little smitten since he first saw her picture. So when he has the opportunity to introduce himself at a party Collins planned he takes it. What follows is the journey of two people falling in love and learning to trust their hearts.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Collins and Luca are both a little hesitant for love. Both for their own reasons. But Luca has been a little smitten since he first saw her picture. So when he has the opportunity to introduce himself at a party Collins planned he takes it. What follows is the journey of two people falling in love and learning to trust their hearts.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
May 19, 2017
Once again, Aven hits it out of the park with a swoon-worthy hockey romance. Luca is a dream. As a Boilermaker myself, I appreciate that Collins is a Purdue graduate. I love the continuation of the other Chicago On Ice storylines. I am also excited about the new San Francisco series coming soon which this book sets up.
June 5, 2017
She shoots, she scores!!! Aven Ellis got everything about Save The Date right! I loved Luca and Collins. They were the perfect H/H in this story. Luca encourages Collins to reach for her dreams and not settle. Collins helps Luca realize there is more to life than hockey. I keep thinking each book is the best one...and no really, this one is the best in the series yet!
September 24, 2020
Cute story
I really liked this story. I would have liked to have the characters fleshed out a bit more to go deeper but this is a very cute story of Collins and Luca. Even though Luca is younger he does act much older/wiser for his age and I'm so happy that Collins got her happily ever after!
I really liked this story. I would have liked to have the characters fleshed out a bit more to go deeper but this is a very cute story of Collins and Luca. Even though Luca is younger he does act much older/wiser for his age and I'm so happy that Collins got her happily ever after!
April 29, 2025
This book was just ok. I felt like we didn't really get to know that much about Luca other than he's a workaholic and was obsessed with meeting Collins. Collins was a more developed character but I felt like the "find/speak your truth" message was a bit overdone. I still enjoyed the extended group of characters so I'll read the final book in the series.
May 22, 2017
A must read
A modern Cinderella story that you will just love! Once I started reading this book I could not put down. Aven Ellis writes the best books wot h characters you connect with. This book is available on kindle unlimited which I got it from. Definitely a must read
A modern Cinderella story that you will just love! Once I started reading this book I could not put down. Aven Ellis writes the best books wot h characters you connect with. This book is available on kindle unlimited which I got it from. Definitely a must read
May 29, 2017
Swoon-worthy hockey romance!
Aven Ellis delivers again with another swoon-worthy hockey romance! With characters that are filled with a range of human emotions and feelings, you'll wish they could be your real life fans.
Aven Ellis delivers again with another swoon-worthy hockey romance! With characters that are filled with a range of human emotions and feelings, you'll wish they could be your real life fans.
February 20, 2018
Save the Date (Chicago on Ice 3) - PG13
Violence: none
Language:
Sex: descriptive kissing
I didn't like the h as much as I usually like AE's heroines. There wasn't conflict to drive the couple together or apart, either.
Violence: none
Language:
Sex: descriptive kissing
I didn't like the h as much as I usually like AE's heroines. There wasn't conflict to drive the couple together or apart, either.
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