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Portland Storm #10
Defensive Zone
USA Today bestselling author Catherine Gayle presents another novel in the bestselling Portland Storm hockey romance series. Portland Storm defenseman Cody “Harry” Williams owes his coach everything—especially for bailing him out of trouble in the past. How does he want Cody to repay him? By keeping his hands to himself around the coach’s sensual and mischievous daughter. All signs point to this task being easier said than done… Up-and-coming fashion designer Dani Weber always gets what she wants—and she wants Cody Williams. Cody’s sexy, geeky-chic bowties and hard-to-get attitude only make her want him more, and now Cody’s resistance is fading…and fast. One call is all it would take to land Cody on the trading block, ending their flirtation before it gains any traction. Cody is squarely in the Defensive Zone, but the only way for the two of them to obtain what they really want is to go on the offensive—together.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 9, 2017
61 people are currently reading
555 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 104 reviews
March 23, 2017
Happy Book Birthday!!
This was one fun, flirty and hot read I wasn't expecting from Catherine Gayle and I was pleasantly surprised! With Defensive Zone, Catherine Gayle gives us a fresh, new feel to the Portland Storm series.
When Cody “Harry” Williams promised coach Webs he would stay away from his baby girl after bailing him out of prison, he didn’t factor in Dani’s tenaciousness nor the intense spark she ignites in him every time she’s near. His family is depending on him to keep his job though, can he resist the sensual forbidden fruit that is Dani Weber?
“I wasn’t in control of anything.
Dani Weber owned me.
She owned ever f*cking inch of me.
And it was too late to do anything about it.”
Failure is not in Dani’s vocabulary. When the vivacious, budding fashion designer sets her sights on something or someone she’s always successful. And this woman wants a fling with the bowtie wearing, sexylicious, seemingly uninterested ginger NHL defenseman. Will she get her man?
“How could she be both cute as a button and sexy as hell in the same moment?”
Dani has liked “Dirty Harry” since she was fourteen, but couldn’t do anything about it. Now that she’s twenty she’s aggressively pursuing the older (ten years her senior) and very reserved Cody Williams. Dani is the embodiment of a young adult. She’s determined, exuberant, vivacious as well as self-centered and impulsive. I understood Cody’s attraction to the former but had a hard time believing the no strings fling she sought could be more than a scorching hot affair. But Catherine skillfully develops Dani’s character into one who by the end uses her energetic personality selflessly.
“There was just something about the way she grabbed life by the horns that drew me in and refused to let me go.”
Poor Cody, nothing seemed to ever go right in his life. From his family life which has was fraught with tragedy and big hurdles to overcome, to his uncertain place with the Portland Storm team, to his unwanted attraction to the daughter of one of his coaches. He does everything to keep his promise to stay away from her. He pushes, lies, avoids, flat out rejects her and even tries to scare her away with his “dirty” secret. The latter completely backfires on him and only makes Dani more resolved to break down his defenses.
These two seem to be completely wrong for each other, but Cody’s steadiness balances Dani’s effervescence. Besides their incendiary chemistry, they’re both good people and once Dani starts to see beyond her wants to Cody’s needs they’re suit each other perfectly. By the end of the book I wanted to read so much more about them.
“I hadn’t realized how much I needed to touch her. Just to hold her. She brought so much peace into my life. She brought her fair share on insanity, too, but there was something soothing about having her in my arms.”
As with all books in this series, the Portland Storm is a big family that supports each other and besides helping out the main couple we also get updates on some of our favorite team members and their lives. Particularly Babs and Katie.
Defensive Zone is book #10 in the Portland Storm series by author Catherine Gayle. This is a light, fun and sexy sports romance that includes all the excitement of the NHL. This is a must read for all Catherine Gayle and hockey romance fans. This is standalone full length novel, told from alternating points of view with a happy ending.
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/2mtNVXT
4.5 stars
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via PA. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this copy. *
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May 23, 2017
I never thought I'd see the day when I'd give a PS novel such a low rating. But here it is.
Don't get me wrong - I didn't mind Dani and Cody's sexual adventures. Heck, with every other author I would have been nervous, but not with Catherine Gayle, because she's always been able to deliver, in my opinion, romance based off reality, and whatever she tackled was done tastefully and fairly. So, no, BDSM, even in the slightest version, wasn't a problem for me here.
Neither was Cody, because I can understand his tight-laced control and his need to micro-manage everything. I'm kind of like that, so I get it.
I had one big problem though, and her name was Dani Weber.
Oh my GOD was she annoying. Not even the kind where you roll your eyes and move on. No, she was the I-want-to-slap-her-in-the-face-with-a-chair-then-stomp-her-out-of-existence annoying. I can't even formulate what grated me the wrong way the most, but she was obnoxious, she was in your face, she didn't take no for an answer in a very bad way, and she made a spectacle of herself. All she really needed for the icing was 'OMG I'm so awesome, don't you know?' stamped somewhere. She had such high opinions of herself, kind of like a Mary Sue, and even when she DID realise she needed to tone it down, all she really did was be all 'Y'all, sure, I'm selfish, but hey I'll do this good deed and weeee they'll all love me and adore me! Score!' I'm not even kidding, that's how it felt she talked half the time. I mean, if Cody had been the one doing all those things, he'd be labelled a stalker - and while I'm all for female emancipation and whatnot, if we want to be treated fairly then let's not pretend this wasn't stalking at its finest, and causing all the wrong flags to go up all the time.
Are all twenty-year-olds like that!? Spare me, whatever deity's out there!
The saving grace in this book were mentions of the other players, that Brie is pregnant again and Katie already had one miscarriage but she's six weeks along with her second pregnancy. That's it.
Don't get me wrong - I didn't mind Dani and Cody's sexual adventures. Heck, with every other author I would have been nervous, but not with Catherine Gayle, because she's always been able to deliver, in my opinion, romance based off reality, and whatever she tackled was done tastefully and fairly. So, no, BDSM, even in the slightest version, wasn't a problem for me here.
Neither was Cody, because I can understand his tight-laced control and his need to micro-manage everything. I'm kind of like that, so I get it.
I had one big problem though, and her name was Dani Weber.
Oh my GOD was she annoying. Not even the kind where you roll your eyes and move on. No, she was the I-want-to-slap-her-in-the-face-with-a-chair-then-stomp-her-out-of-existence annoying. I can't even formulate what grated me the wrong way the most, but she was obnoxious, she was in your face, she didn't take no for an answer in a very bad way, and she made a spectacle of herself. All she really needed for the icing was 'OMG I'm so awesome, don't you know?' stamped somewhere. She had such high opinions of herself, kind of like a Mary Sue, and even when she DID realise she needed to tone it down, all she really did was be all 'Y'all, sure, I'm selfish, but hey I'll do this good deed and weeee they'll all love me and adore me! Score!' I'm not even kidding, that's how it felt she talked half the time. I mean, if Cody had been the one doing all those things, he'd be labelled a stalker - and while I'm all for female emancipation and whatnot, if we want to be treated fairly then let's not pretend this wasn't stalking at its finest, and causing all the wrong flags to go up all the time.
Are all twenty-year-olds like that!? Spare me, whatever deity's out there!
The saving grace in this book were mentions of the other players, that Brie is pregnant again and Katie already had one miscarriage but she's six weeks along with her second pregnancy. That's it.
March 21, 2017
Dani Weber has set her sights on Cody "Harry" Williams..."Dirty Harry" in her mind. She knows under his buttoned-up facade that he is hiding a sexy, dirty side and she wants to explore it. So much so that since they shared a kiss, she has essentially been stalking him or at least relentlessly pursuing him.
But Cody is on the run and resistant. After getting in some trouble, he made a promise to her dad, who is also one of his coaches, that he would steer clear of her. He is worried about his place on the team and a possible trade. And he has some personal issues that make it not a good idea. But even though he is really attracted to her, he pushes her away, tries to avoid her, and even resorts to lying to her. But Dani is determined to break down his defenses and is bound to eventually push him too far. He thrives on control, but Dani pushes all of his buttons. And no amount of trying to control her seems to work. And even when he thinks by sharing his hidden side to her that it might scare her off, it just spurs her on more.
In her mind there is nothing wrong with enjoying each other, and they both agree it could never be something serious. They can set rules. Discretion is key. No one needs to know what goes on with them behind closed doors. They are all about power exchanges, challenge, and heat. They are a blend of out-of-control passion and a balance of needs. They are a fiery match with a lot of potential, but they also have to keep it a secret. If her father or the team find out, it could mess with his career. Something he cannot afford to lose, no matter how much Dani might be worth it.
I really loved the dichotomy of Cody. He had a lot of layers to him. He tried to be stoic and take everything on his own shoulders, and held tight as he could to his control. Dani got on my nerves a bit initially since she really was pushy and at times self centered on what she wanted and not what Cody needed. But she had a good heart and did grow on me more. I came to really like them together. They had a fun rapport and oodles of chemistry. This one had quite a few erotic and stimulating scenes.
It brings in cameos from some of the series regulars especially Dani's family including her parents, her sister, Katie and brother-in-law Jamie, and their brother, Luke. It also featured more with her friend, Bea, and Koz got a little tease of a story. I am really looking forward to Luke's book and Koz's book.
This series is easy to fall back into with familiar characters, but the stories can also stand alone as they feature new couples. It was feisty, steamy, funny, intense, and had a bit of a naughty side. It is told in both of their points of view which was perfect, especially in the beginning when it was such a cat and mouse game. These two were full of surprises and I liked that there was more to the characters than we had originally seen. I really enjoyed this installment even though it was a bit different.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim | Facebook | Twitter
But Cody is on the run and resistant. After getting in some trouble, he made a promise to her dad, who is also one of his coaches, that he would steer clear of her. He is worried about his place on the team and a possible trade. And he has some personal issues that make it not a good idea. But even though he is really attracted to her, he pushes her away, tries to avoid her, and even resorts to lying to her. But Dani is determined to break down his defenses and is bound to eventually push him too far. He thrives on control, but Dani pushes all of his buttons. And no amount of trying to control her seems to work. And even when he thinks by sharing his hidden side to her that it might scare her off, it just spurs her on more.
In her mind there is nothing wrong with enjoying each other, and they both agree it could never be something serious. They can set rules. Discretion is key. No one needs to know what goes on with them behind closed doors. They are all about power exchanges, challenge, and heat. They are a blend of out-of-control passion and a balance of needs. They are a fiery match with a lot of potential, but they also have to keep it a secret. If her father or the team find out, it could mess with his career. Something he cannot afford to lose, no matter how much Dani might be worth it.
I really loved the dichotomy of Cody. He had a lot of layers to him. He tried to be stoic and take everything on his own shoulders, and held tight as he could to his control. Dani got on my nerves a bit initially since she really was pushy and at times self centered on what she wanted and not what Cody needed. But she had a good heart and did grow on me more. I came to really like them together. They had a fun rapport and oodles of chemistry. This one had quite a few erotic and stimulating scenes.
It brings in cameos from some of the series regulars especially Dani's family including her parents, her sister, Katie and brother-in-law Jamie, and their brother, Luke. It also featured more with her friend, Bea, and Koz got a little tease of a story. I am really looking forward to Luke's book and Koz's book.
This series is easy to fall back into with familiar characters, but the stories can also stand alone as they feature new couples. It was feisty, steamy, funny, intense, and had a bit of a naughty side. It is told in both of their points of view which was perfect, especially in the beginning when it was such a cat and mouse game. These two were full of surprises and I liked that there was more to the characters than we had originally seen. I really enjoyed this installment even though it was a bit different.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim | Facebook | Twitter
July 21, 2017
I did not like this book. It had nothing to do with the spanking, because a little consensual spanking never hurt anybody. Well, it does, but that's not the point. The point is that Dani is a stalker. She forces physical and sexual attention on Cody who has repeatedly told her that he isn't interested, and even though she can tell he is, it doesn't negate the fact that he repeatedly told her no and she kept doing it anyway. If I wouldn't tolerate this behavior in a male character, I'm not going to tolerate it in a female character either, and she's a stalker. It's not cute. It's not bratty. It's not being determined. It's about completely and totally ignoring the wishes of another person. She doesn't respect boundaries. And the whole she's a brat so he's going to spank her thing and that's why they'll get along so well doesn't work. BDSM requires consent, and she has no respect for consent at all.
So, no. No love for me for this book.
So, no. No love for me for this book.
March 28, 2017
I was extremely disappointed in this book and I'm normally a big fan of Catherine Gayle. The heroine of this book Dani was a petulant brat. The behaviors that she exhibited would have been considered horrifying, if not criminal had they been enacted by a man. If a man had treated me the way she treated Cody I would have filed for a restraining order! It's not cute to not take no for an answer over and over and over again. Showing up at his house uninvited and forcing her way in, kissing and touching him without consent after he had repeatedly requested that she stop - not ok. That is not being a persistent suitor that is being a stalker.
March 19, 2017
Harry has a secret…and you’ll never guess it
I really enjoy this author and this series, but I have to say I didn’t see this coming and certainly not under the Portland Storm banner. That’s a very good thing. If you’re going to have a long running series, the only way to keep readers coming back is to constantly evolve and keep things fresh. Defensive Zone is certainly that.
Dani Weber is young and acts her age in many ways. I’m typically not a fan of YA/NA romances precisely for this reason. Their immaturity, impetuous, and self-involved ways of seeing things grates on me. In Defensive Zone, Dani did just that at the start. She’s vibrant, ambitious, and a spitfire who doesn’t take “no” for an answer. As admirable as those qualities are, when they applied to Cody, I grew frustrated. As she’s done in previous books, Miss Gayle develops this seemingly brash character steadily and thoroughly, and I grew to really like Dani. I always like seeing character growth, especially when they can recognize and address their own flaws. I loved that we saw this in Dani. By the end, we see her brazen attitude work selflessly. Dani is admittedly different than most of this author’s heroines but I liked that because it keeps the series fresh and makes me eager to see what is in store next. I found Cody’s character equally different from what I’d come to expect. I was surprised by his secret, but I liked how the story developed his many sides fully rather than secrets meant solely for “shock value”. I also found his steady, strong personality brilliantly complemented Dani’s live-wire attitude. They are certainly a couple I’ll look forward to revisiting in upcoming books.
The romance between Cody and Dani was fun and flirty initially, steadily developing into more. The conflicts were a bit different and the resolutions surprising, but it worked well for these characters. I did think the pacing was a bit slower at times, though that may be due to my reluctance to connect with Dani for part of the book. Overall, the book flowed and moved along without getting stuck on a problem for long. As I’ve come to expect from this author, the writing is very good and the hockey details woven expertly into the storyline. And WOW, Defensive Zone is definitely not lacking in heat. It matched the couple’s relationship and personalities so well and, accompanied with some very sweet moments, made this a memorable romance. I love when books catch me off guard, and this book did that in a few different ways. I thought this was a fun departure from what I expected in this series, while still retaining my favorite elements of a hockey romance by Miss Gayle. Sport romance fans certainly won’t be disappointed with the newest standalone in the Portland Storm series.
*Ebook received directly from PA. The author and publisher had no influence on this review*
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
I really enjoy this author and this series, but I have to say I didn’t see this coming and certainly not under the Portland Storm banner. That’s a very good thing. If you’re going to have a long running series, the only way to keep readers coming back is to constantly evolve and keep things fresh. Defensive Zone is certainly that.
Dani Weber is young and acts her age in many ways. I’m typically not a fan of YA/NA romances precisely for this reason. Their immaturity, impetuous, and self-involved ways of seeing things grates on me. In Defensive Zone, Dani did just that at the start. She’s vibrant, ambitious, and a spitfire who doesn’t take “no” for an answer. As admirable as those qualities are, when they applied to Cody, I grew frustrated. As she’s done in previous books, Miss Gayle develops this seemingly brash character steadily and thoroughly, and I grew to really like Dani. I always like seeing character growth, especially when they can recognize and address their own flaws. I loved that we saw this in Dani. By the end, we see her brazen attitude work selflessly. Dani is admittedly different than most of this author’s heroines but I liked that because it keeps the series fresh and makes me eager to see what is in store next. I found Cody’s character equally different from what I’d come to expect. I was surprised by his secret, but I liked how the story developed his many sides fully rather than secrets meant solely for “shock value”. I also found his steady, strong personality brilliantly complemented Dani’s live-wire attitude. They are certainly a couple I’ll look forward to revisiting in upcoming books.
The romance between Cody and Dani was fun and flirty initially, steadily developing into more. The conflicts were a bit different and the resolutions surprising, but it worked well for these characters. I did think the pacing was a bit slower at times, though that may be due to my reluctance to connect with Dani for part of the book. Overall, the book flowed and moved along without getting stuck on a problem for long. As I’ve come to expect from this author, the writing is very good and the hockey details woven expertly into the storyline. And WOW, Defensive Zone is definitely not lacking in heat. It matched the couple’s relationship and personalities so well and, accompanied with some very sweet moments, made this a memorable romance. I love when books catch me off guard, and this book did that in a few different ways. I thought this was a fun departure from what I expected in this series, while still retaining my favorite elements of a hockey romance by Miss Gayle. Sport romance fans certainly won’t be disappointed with the newest standalone in the Portland Storm series.
*Ebook received directly from PA. The author and publisher had no influence on this review*
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
March 22, 2017
Dani Weber has chased after Cody “Harry” Williams for some time. So far, Cody has been able to deflect her advances or avoid her altogether, since she has been away at college. Her father has warned Cody away from his little girl and Cody has taken that threat to heart, especially since the Storm management has announced they are looking to move some younger players into the defensive lineup. But Dani has always gone after what she wants, and she doesn’t care what her dad says: she wants Cody.
These two had great chemistry, even as Cody tried to stay away from Dani. Part of the reason David Weber wasn’t thrilled about his daughter being with Cody stems back to the night Cody was arrested and Webs bailed him out. Webs knows things about Cody that no father wants to know about the man his baby is with. As a reader, this gave things a fun little twist. Cody is into kink. He is not straight up vanilla, a fact that Dani uses to up his nickname from Harry to Dirty Harry. She is on board with trying out the things he is interested in, but it is definitely a hurdle they have to face: will she be into the same thing he is?
Overall I enjoyed this book, but there were times I felt like David’s overprotectiveness and the severity of the threat he issued went too far, especially as his daughter is an adult. The ending also felt like it wrapped up rather quickly for all the difficulties they had faced. I didn’t feel like things were really settled, even taking into account what they were doing in the final scenes. There felt like a lot of build up to just stop as soon as a solution had been found, and the foundation for their relationship was still on shaky ground.
I loved the side characters that are close to Dani and Cody. Much of Dani’s scenes focused around her start-up fashion business and her work with Bea. I love Bea’s general confidence and the additional confidence she finds with the help of Dani’s designs. I can’t help but hope, with a few of the scenes in Defensive Zone, that maybe Bea will find a match on the Storm as well. I also loved watching Cody rally around his sisters in trying to find a solution for their father, even as Cody had to do all his help from long distance.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
These two had great chemistry, even as Cody tried to stay away from Dani. Part of the reason David Weber wasn’t thrilled about his daughter being with Cody stems back to the night Cody was arrested and Webs bailed him out. Webs knows things about Cody that no father wants to know about the man his baby is with. As a reader, this gave things a fun little twist. Cody is into kink. He is not straight up vanilla, a fact that Dani uses to up his nickname from Harry to Dirty Harry. She is on board with trying out the things he is interested in, but it is definitely a hurdle they have to face: will she be into the same thing he is?
Overall I enjoyed this book, but there were times I felt like David’s overprotectiveness and the severity of the threat he issued went too far, especially as his daughter is an adult. The ending also felt like it wrapped up rather quickly for all the difficulties they had faced. I didn’t feel like things were really settled, even taking into account what they were doing in the final scenes. There felt like a lot of build up to just stop as soon as a solution had been found, and the foundation for their relationship was still on shaky ground.
I loved the side characters that are close to Dani and Cody. Much of Dani’s scenes focused around her start-up fashion business and her work with Bea. I love Bea’s general confidence and the additional confidence she finds with the help of Dani’s designs. I can’t help but hope, with a few of the scenes in Defensive Zone, that maybe Bea will find a match on the Storm as well. I also loved watching Cody rally around his sisters in trying to find a solution for their father, even as Cody had to do all his help from long distance.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 24, 2017
Slick's review:
4.5 stars
I’ve been waiting for Defensive Zone, well more like I’d been waiting for author Catherine Gayle to reveal the reason why Cody “Harry” Williams had to be bailed out by his coach, David Weber, and why he’d made a promise to his coach to never get involved with his young, impressionable daughter. I had an my suspicions about Cody, and I’m pleased to say that they were right and while Coach Weber wanted his daughter far away from Cody, he obviously had no idea that Dani, despite being only twenty, was a woman to be reckoned with and only one man could handle her. I’m pretty sure this is Ms. Gayle’s sexiest book in the Portland Storm series and I enjoyed every kinky, filthy, sweet, and sexy moment of it.
Approaching thirty and at the point in his career where younger players are gunning for his job, the last thing Cody Williams needs is giving his coach a reason to ask management to trade him. He’s determined to work harder than ever and even more determined to stay far, far away from Dani Weber, but she has other ideas and despite Cody’s need for control she somehow makes him forget everything. I’m going to admit that while there was no doubt Dani know her own mind at times she drove me a bit nuts with her bratty tendencies and the way she acted and talked without thinking. Her impulsive nature was just one of the reasons Cody was leery of starting anything with her even though it was more than obvious he craved her, but her impulsivity also led her to help Cody in a way no one had even done before because he was just too stubborn to accept help.
I enjoyed the easy way they fell into a relationship without them calling it a relationship and the intense feelings that developed between them once they got physical. While they had some problems, most of those stemmed from outside sources and not between them making this book low on angst which I appreciated greatly. While I did feel the ending was a bit rushed, it was necessary due to what was happening in the plot and it was also because I wanted more time with these two as a full-fledged couple, not because I wasn’t satisfied with what happened.
Sexy, fun, and intense I loved every minute of Defensive Zone!
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
4.5 stars
I’ve been waiting for Defensive Zone, well more like I’d been waiting for author Catherine Gayle to reveal the reason why Cody “Harry” Williams had to be bailed out by his coach, David Weber, and why he’d made a promise to his coach to never get involved with his young, impressionable daughter. I had an my suspicions about Cody, and I’m pleased to say that they were right and while Coach Weber wanted his daughter far away from Cody, he obviously had no idea that Dani, despite being only twenty, was a woman to be reckoned with and only one man could handle her. I’m pretty sure this is Ms. Gayle’s sexiest book in the Portland Storm series and I enjoyed every kinky, filthy, sweet, and sexy moment of it.
Approaching thirty and at the point in his career where younger players are gunning for his job, the last thing Cody Williams needs is giving his coach a reason to ask management to trade him. He’s determined to work harder than ever and even more determined to stay far, far away from Dani Weber, but she has other ideas and despite Cody’s need for control she somehow makes him forget everything. I’m going to admit that while there was no doubt Dani know her own mind at times she drove me a bit nuts with her bratty tendencies and the way she acted and talked without thinking. Her impulsive nature was just one of the reasons Cody was leery of starting anything with her even though it was more than obvious he craved her, but her impulsivity also led her to help Cody in a way no one had even done before because he was just too stubborn to accept help.
I enjoyed the easy way they fell into a relationship without them calling it a relationship and the intense feelings that developed between them once they got physical. While they had some problems, most of those stemmed from outside sources and not between them making this book low on angst which I appreciated greatly. While I did feel the ending was a bit rushed, it was necessary due to what was happening in the plot and it was also because I wanted more time with these two as a full-fledged couple, not because I wasn’t satisfied with what happened.
Sexy, fun, and intense I loved every minute of Defensive Zone!
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
March 23, 2017
This couple has been dancing around in the background for awhile now. Dani is the daughter of former player and now coach Webs. She has her sites set on Harry. And after a steamy kiss during the last season, some off ice shenanigans that land Cody "Harry" in jail, and the threat of a trade if he steps out of line again, it seems as if Dani is fighting an up hill battle.
This one was an interesting read for me. One, because Dani is young--just 20 to Cody's 30 ish. She comes across as a typical baby of the family, used to getting her way and a bit head strong. The other thing that makes this read exciting is Cody has a secret kink he likes. Introducing Dani to his world was so HOT! I liked that he finally gave in and trusted her to get to know him better.
Still exciting to see the other players and their ladies each book. Great to catch up. The epilogue was fantastic! Looking forward to more. Can't wait for Luke's story!! Coming SOON!
*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
This one was an interesting read for me. One, because Dani is young--just 20 to Cody's 30 ish. She comes across as a typical baby of the family, used to getting her way and a bit head strong. The other thing that makes this read exciting is Cody has a secret kink he likes. Introducing Dani to his world was so HOT! I liked that he finally gave in and trusted her to get to know him better.
Still exciting to see the other players and their ladies each book. Great to catch up. The epilogue was fantastic! Looking forward to more. Can't wait for Luke's story!! Coming SOON!
*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
March 24, 2017
The trait I love most about author Catherine Gayle is her fearlessness. She is not afraid to tackle hot button issues such as interracial relationships, rape, living with HIV and other subjects of controversy that may not go over well, but she does so with heart, humor and insight that allows for deep emotional connections to each story she writes. That being said, sometimes even an author may need a breather from all the seriousness, so I was glad to see her let her hair down and lighten up a bit with Cody and Dani. Dani leads with her heart and lets the rest fall into place. Cody is not your average heartthrob, he's a thinker with a ton of skill on the ice, but no clue in matters of the heart. Defensive Zone shows the versatility of an author whose heart shines through with every story. This time with a little romantic comedy, she puts her sense of humor center stage while not skimping on the wonderful heartwarming characters.
March 27, 2017
3.5 stars. Up until about halfway through the book, I wanted to smack Dani. Shake her. Tell her to grow the F#$% up. But then she stopped acting like a spoiled brat, and I breathed a sigh of relief. She grew on me eventually. I found myself chuckling over what Cody's secret was. That was totally not what I was expecting when we were teased with the news of his arrest in a previous book (can't remember which off the top of my head.) I liked Cody a lot, and I wanted to hug him when he was stressing out and tell him it was going to be okay. The ending was a little abrupt, but I'm sure we'll hear more about how Dani and Cody are doing in subsequent books, so it didn't really bother me. Overall, not my favorite in the series, but it wasn't my least favorite either.
December 30, 2021
This book has been sitting on my TBR, along with a couple of others in this series, for a while. Not sure why, I’ve read almost the entire series and loved it, just got pushed back I guess. It took me no time getting back into the story or the characters, and Dani and Cody were exactly as I remembered we left them. Attracted to each other, then he did something, and he agreed to stay away from her. Dani is one determined lady, and she knows her mind. It seems most people underestimate her, but she always leads with her heart, and that makes her endearing. Cody thinks he needs to carry the weight of the world on his shoulders and likes to keep all his cards close to his chest. Dani is having none of that, and he is helpless to resist. Great chemistry that leads to their HEA!
April 19, 2017
review to come
March 24, 2017
I feel like I was missing something with this book. It was good until about the last 80 pages or so.
It was kind of cutie how dani finally wore down Cody to see how they could be together. It was hot and fun between Cody and dani.
I feel like most of the other books in this series tie other characters into the story line. I was missing that with this book.
I think the book should have been longer. We were missing the happy ever after and got instead more of a marriage of convince.
It was kind of cutie how dani finally wore down Cody to see how they could be together. It was hot and fun between Cody and dani.
I feel like most of the other books in this series tie other characters into the story line. I was missing that with this book.
I think the book should have been longer. We were missing the happy ever after and got instead more of a marriage of convince.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2025
The sex scenes went on way too long and were about BDSM, so an instant turn-off and boring to boot. The protagonists thought about sex too often. There was very little plot outside of that and almost no character growth.
Most importantly Dani was unlikable and was ignoring Harry when he said no. Consent matters regardless of the gender of the person crossing lines. There was no romance. A blot on an otherwise really good series. I deleted it from my eReader..
Most importantly Dani was unlikable and was ignoring Harry when he said no. Consent matters regardless of the gender of the person crossing lines. There was no romance. A blot on an otherwise really good series. I deleted it from my eReader..
April 13, 2017
It is never okay to stalk and harass another person just because you two are attracted to each other. It is not okay to just sit on another person's lap without permission. It is not okay to push your way into someone's house because you like them. If the tables were turned, and Cody was the one doing this instead of Dani, he would have been in jail.
May 27, 2021
I couldn't do it. I got 22% in and absolutely could not go any further. The heroine in this book is bloody awful. It pains me to write this since I do love this author and up until now, I have LOVED this series.
June 30, 2017
Not good, way different than the others in the series, no sense of any emotional connection, just all sex. Neither character was likeable, only gave it a second star because Babs and Katie make an appearance, otherwise just not good at all.
April 1, 2017
Dani was such a fun character!! Cody was alright...but between his worries he was too intense to get a handle on his personality.
It was pretty whirlwind at the end.
It was pretty whirlwind at the end.
March 23, 2022
Woah... I just can't with this story. Honestly, the last two books are NOT my favorite. Gayle usually introduces the characters through the previous stories either through conversations or just a glimpse. Even if she doesn't, Gayle always has an amazing way to make readers love the new characters.
We all know Dani since Book 1.. She has been mentioned a lot as Webs' daughter. We also know Harry since Book 1 as he comes to Portland together with Soupy tho his name is not mentioned until Book 2. Their relationship has been brewed since Book 8.. so I have been anticipating this story. But I find myself can't like this book :(
Cody/Harry is around 30 years old and described as someone private. Dani is fun as a 20-year old.. her childish behaviors of stalking are probably similar to those youngsters who keep updated about their idols/crushes. But that makes Gayle's signature writing: characters with rich background. I was waiting for these two to show love and chemistry. Before I realized it, I had finished half of the story and almost all are about sex and kinks. We didn't get a clearcut answer about why Harry was arrested in the previous story. We didn't get to see Harry and Dani bond together as a couple.
Gonna continue reading the other stories.. but my least favorites are:
- Book 3 (Liam and Noelle) = DNF
- Book 7 (Babs and Katie)
- Book 9 (Ghost and Anne) = skimmed through many pages
- Book 10 (Harry and Dani)
We all know Dani since Book 1.. She has been mentioned a lot as Webs' daughter. We also know Harry since Book 1 as he comes to Portland together with Soupy tho his name is not mentioned until Book 2. Their relationship has been brewed since Book 8.. so I have been anticipating this story. But I find myself can't like this book :(
Cody/Harry is around 30 years old and described as someone private. Dani is fun as a 20-year old.. her childish behaviors of stalking are probably similar to those youngsters who keep updated about their idols/crushes. But that makes Gayle's signature writing: characters with rich background. I was waiting for these two to show love and chemistry. Before I realized it, I had finished half of the story and almost all are about sex and kinks. We didn't get a clearcut answer about why Harry was arrested in the previous story. We didn't get to see Harry and Dani bond together as a couple.
Gonna continue reading the other stories.. but my least favorites are:
- Book 3 (Liam and Noelle) = DNF
- Book 7 (Babs and Katie)
- Book 9 (Ghost and Anne) = skimmed through many pages
- Book 10 (Harry and Dani)
June 20, 2017
Dani Weber is a woman on the verge. She's on the verge of success as a fashion designer, and she's on the verge of growing up. She's also in love with Cody Williams, a hockey player on the team her father coaches. Cody (known as Harry to his teammates, coaches, and everyone associated with the team) is more attracted to her than he's been to anyone ever, but his coach has made it VERY clear that Dani is off limits to him. And Cody has a very kinky secret, which Dani's father knows and which Cody doesn't want getting out. Fortunately Dani is extremely persistent and used to going around her father's well-meaning but often overbearing pronouncements, and she keeps showing up at Harry's apartment and pushing herself into his life. Dani's persistence was a little difficult for me at first, because at the beginning of the book she's somewhat immature. But what is wonderful about Catherine Gayle is that she takes the time she needs to for her characters to grow and change. Dani grows up thanks to Cody, and he grows and learns a lot from her as well. Ultimately they admit to one another that they are in love and they take on Coach Weber and all of the other doubters around them, to great effect. Fans of the Portland Storm series will love having another view into the life of the Weber family, as well as the glimpses of favorite characters from other books.
June 29, 2017
Defensive Zone has its readers falling in love with Catherine Gayles’ hockey world all over again! Dani’s spunky; no holds barred personality has Cody on his toes throughout the entire novel.
We are welcomed back to the Portland Storm hockey team with a flurry of activity. Catching up with Babs and Katie while being sucked into Dani and Cody’s intense love affair. It was very interesting to watch how Dani took charge of the relationship and forced her way into Cody’s life. Cody is a man who takes care of things, first his family, his teammates, his friends and lastly himself. It had to be a strong woman to work her way into his life and find a forever home. Dani and Cody are a great couple, but I really enjoyed seeing how they were as individuals too. Ms. Gayles’ secondary characters always add a level of laughter and seriousness to her work, Bea needs her story to be told. I loved how Bea and Koz interacted, I’m holding out to see how Ms. Gayle plays this out.
Overall, a fantastic novel that adds another great chapter to an already cherished series; Dani and Cody have overcome some of lifes hardest obstacles and continue to find refuge in each other. Defensive Zone is a novel that carries hope, compassion and love throughout, a great addition to the Storm series.
We are welcomed back to the Portland Storm hockey team with a flurry of activity. Catching up with Babs and Katie while being sucked into Dani and Cody’s intense love affair. It was very interesting to watch how Dani took charge of the relationship and forced her way into Cody’s life. Cody is a man who takes care of things, first his family, his teammates, his friends and lastly himself. It had to be a strong woman to work her way into his life and find a forever home. Dani and Cody are a great couple, but I really enjoyed seeing how they were as individuals too. Ms. Gayles’ secondary characters always add a level of laughter and seriousness to her work, Bea needs her story to be told. I loved how Bea and Koz interacted, I’m holding out to see how Ms. Gayle plays this out.
Overall, a fantastic novel that adds another great chapter to an already cherished series; Dani and Cody have overcome some of lifes hardest obstacles and continue to find refuge in each other. Defensive Zone is a novel that carries hope, compassion and love throughout, a great addition to the Storm series.
March 20, 2017
Another great addition to the Portland Storm series. I always look forward to these books because we always get to revisit, even if only for a moment, the characters we love from the other books in this awesome series. This story like the others is full of love, humor, generosity, passion and the importance of family.
Dani & Cody (Dirty Harry) definitely do not have your typical love story. Theirs is one that is pretty rocky just getting off the ground considering Dani is only 20 and one of Cody's coach's daughters. Webs has warned Cody away from his daughter Dani because he knows Cody has a minor kinky side. (Professor OTK)-haha. He also just doesn't want this daughter to end up with a hockey player like his daughter Katie did. Cody does everything he can to thwart her advances and stay in the coach's good graces. This of course becomes impossible for him after a while since he has had the hots for her for some time despite being so much older.
At first I felt like Dani was a bit of a brat going after Cody for a mere fling, when he told her he could get traded if he was caught with her. But then it was clear she wanted much more from him than a kinky sexy fling. She wanted forever because she loved him. She redeemed herself with me with what she did for his father. Like Dani, I ended up falling in love with Cody and the two of them as a couple.
As always I look forward to future Storm books.
Dani & Cody (Dirty Harry) definitely do not have your typical love story. Theirs is one that is pretty rocky just getting off the ground considering Dani is only 20 and one of Cody's coach's daughters. Webs has warned Cody away from his daughter Dani because he knows Cody has a minor kinky side. (Professor OTK)-haha. He also just doesn't want this daughter to end up with a hockey player like his daughter Katie did. Cody does everything he can to thwart her advances and stay in the coach's good graces. This of course becomes impossible for him after a while since he has had the hots for her for some time despite being so much older.
At first I felt like Dani was a bit of a brat going after Cody for a mere fling, when he told her he could get traded if he was caught with her. But then it was clear she wanted much more from him than a kinky sexy fling. She wanted forever because she loved him. She redeemed herself with me with what she did for his father. Like Dani, I ended up falling in love with Cody and the two of them as a couple.
As always I look forward to future Storm books.
March 23, 2017
Catherine Gayle's Portland Storm series is amazing! Defensive Zone (Portland Storm #10) looks at the flirtatious Dani Weber as she relentlessly pursues Cody "Harry" Williams, who is doing everything in his power to dodge Dani's advances as he promised his Coach (David Weber) that he would stay away from Coach's little girl. Dani is adamant that her father doesn't have a say in her love life, but Harry is holding on to more secrets that Dani has no idea about.
Who doesn't love the Weber family? I have read all of the Portland Storm books and the Weber family are such a delight. I'm so excited that they have been featured in so many other Portland Storm books and was excited to get to read Dani's story. However, a few pages in, it becomes very apparent that Dani is NOT Katie. At some point in the story, I nearly forgot that they were sisters because of their differences. It was very refreshing and wonderful to see things from her perspective. I wouldn't say that one needs to necessarily read the other Portland Storm books prior to reading this one, but I think it would be helpful.
I loved the story. I loved reading how the relationship between these two flourish throughout the novel. I loved a new, fresh perspective into the beloved Weber family. I highly recommend this book and the rest of the Portland Storm series.
*I received a free Advance Reader Copy in exchange for my honest thoughts/opinions of the author's book.*
Who doesn't love the Weber family? I have read all of the Portland Storm books and the Weber family are such a delight. I'm so excited that they have been featured in so many other Portland Storm books and was excited to get to read Dani's story. However, a few pages in, it becomes very apparent that Dani is NOT Katie. At some point in the story, I nearly forgot that they were sisters because of their differences. It was very refreshing and wonderful to see things from her perspective. I wouldn't say that one needs to necessarily read the other Portland Storm books prior to reading this one, but I think it would be helpful.
I loved the story. I loved reading how the relationship between these two flourish throughout the novel. I loved a new, fresh perspective into the beloved Weber family. I highly recommend this book and the rest of the Portland Storm series.
*I received a free Advance Reader Copy in exchange for my honest thoughts/opinions of the author's book.*
August 31, 2024
Oh. My. God.
I have to say, as a hockey fan, I had looked forward tonreading the Portland Storm series. It's obvious that the author knows hockey herself, from the way she references real NHL teams and even specific players. The details in the game speak is not from someone who doesn't enjoy following the sport. Up until now, there was only one character I did not care for, Noelle, way back in book 4 or something.
But I HATE Dani. This woman is a walking red flag. It's not cute to straight out stalk someone who has said that they aren't interested. Just red flag after red flag after red flag. I'm actually surprised Cody didn't get a restraining order. The sexual content did not bother me in any way but she did. If it had been a man doing this to a woman, this book probably wouldn't have made it to publishing. So let's not be okay with it when a woman does it.
That said, I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series. ♥
I have to say, as a hockey fan, I had looked forward tonreading the Portland Storm series. It's obvious that the author knows hockey herself, from the way she references real NHL teams and even specific players. The details in the game speak is not from someone who doesn't enjoy following the sport. Up until now, there was only one character I did not care for, Noelle, way back in book 4 or something.
But I HATE Dani. This woman is a walking red flag. It's not cute to straight out stalk someone who has said that they aren't interested. Just red flag after red flag after red flag. I'm actually surprised Cody didn't get a restraining order. The sexual content did not bother me in any way but she did. If it had been a man doing this to a woman, this book probably wouldn't have made it to publishing. So let's not be okay with it when a woman does it.
That said, I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series. ♥
March 20, 2017
I received a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is by far the hottest book in the Portland Storm series... and I loved it! I've been dying to know what Harry's big scandal was to get Coach Weber threatening him and this one did not disappoint. I love to see these character's move a little closer to the edge of life and Catherine never fails to tell a story no matter how edgy or controversial the material. This one was pretty light in that regard but other than that, she really lit up the pages with this one.
I'm a die hard fan of this series, so I cannot wait for the next one. If you haven't read any of the other books in this series that came before this one, it's a great series and one you will quickly become hooked on. I know I will go back and start at the beginning at some point, it's that good.
In the meantime....
Happy Reading...enjoy!
This is by far the hottest book in the Portland Storm series... and I loved it! I've been dying to know what Harry's big scandal was to get Coach Weber threatening him and this one did not disappoint. I love to see these character's move a little closer to the edge of life and Catherine never fails to tell a story no matter how edgy or controversial the material. This one was pretty light in that regard but other than that, she really lit up the pages with this one.
I'm a die hard fan of this series, so I cannot wait for the next one. If you haven't read any of the other books in this series that came before this one, it's a great series and one you will quickly become hooked on. I know I will go back and start at the beginning at some point, it's that good.
In the meantime....
Happy Reading...enjoy!
March 23, 2017
Dani is the little sister. She has had to stand buy her family and often be the odd man out when someone else needed to be the focus. She may not always get what she wants on the home from. It she knows who she wants in her life and she is not going to stop until she gets it.
Cody "Harry" Williams has had his share of hot were and made a promos to his coach that he is trying real heard to keep. He has particular tastes he likes to indulge in but outside of that nothing is more important than doing what meds to be done for his family. But no matter how hard he tries he can't stay away from Dani Weber.
Together they are explosive but Dani has a bit of growing up to do and Cody needs to figure out how to get all he needs in a hot package.
The overall story was great and from start to finish you really see Dani grow a bit but in the end she still has room to grow up. The story ends with an HEA but I think the author left room to check back with them in the future as they will not have the easy road that we seem to see with some of the other Storm players they still have some work to do.
Even with Dani's short comings still a great book and another addition to the series that really helps you unravel another player.
I receive this book in exchange for an honest review.
Cody "Harry" Williams has had his share of hot were and made a promos to his coach that he is trying real heard to keep. He has particular tastes he likes to indulge in but outside of that nothing is more important than doing what meds to be done for his family. But no matter how hard he tries he can't stay away from Dani Weber.
Together they are explosive but Dani has a bit of growing up to do and Cody needs to figure out how to get all he needs in a hot package.
The overall story was great and from start to finish you really see Dani grow a bit but in the end she still has room to grow up. The story ends with an HEA but I think the author left room to check back with them in the future as they will not have the easy road that we seem to see with some of the other Storm players they still have some work to do.
Even with Dani's short comings still a great book and another addition to the series that really helps you unravel another player.
I receive this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 22, 2017
Dani Weber is all grown up and going after what she wants and Cody is what she wants. This was the steamiest Portland Storm book I've read! Dani is definitely all grown up and Cody is showing her his world against her father's wishes. Cody has fought his attraction to Dani so that he could honor the promise he made to his coach and Dani's father to stay away from her. Dani has set her sights on Cod though and she doesn't give up with what she wants.
I have loved the Weber family over the various books. It was a little hard to see that Dani had grown up to be some what of a brat, but as the story unfolds, she does a lot of growing up, too. Cody bears the brunt of supporting his family and he struggles with how to do that when they are in Canada and he is in Portland.
This book was a good read in this series. I loved the story behind Dani and Cody, my only issue was Dani at the beginning. I truly love the Portland Storm family and it was great to reconnect with the old characters, too.
I have loved the Weber family over the various books. It was a little hard to see that Dani had grown up to be some what of a brat, but as the story unfolds, she does a lot of growing up, too. Cody bears the brunt of supporting his family and he struggles with how to do that when they are in Canada and he is in Portland.
This book was a good read in this series. I loved the story behind Dani and Cody, my only issue was Dani at the beginning. I truly love the Portland Storm family and it was great to reconnect with the old characters, too.
March 23, 2017
When it's time
When it's time to grow up, Dani didn't miss the memo. She's always been in the background as Katie's sister and Webs youngest. We got a hint of what was coming in previous books. Cody, aka Harry, has a secret and Webs knows about. And Webs uses it to warn Cody away from Dani. I didn't really like Dani when I started reading. She was pushy and reckless, but as I read it, I started identifying with her as the youngest child who had to be loud and fast talk to be heard, who had to bull doze her way to get what she wanted because of who she was, not who everyone thought she should be like. Dani is determined. Cody's secret wasn't that bad to her, and she actually wanted to share it. When Dani sets a goal, she's focused, whether it's her designs, Cody, or solving a problem. It puts people on the defensive, including Cody, but he lets her in. I ended up loving it despite some of my issues that reared concerning trust, but then trust is a major theme throughout.
When it's time to grow up, Dani didn't miss the memo. She's always been in the background as Katie's sister and Webs youngest. We got a hint of what was coming in previous books. Cody, aka Harry, has a secret and Webs knows about. And Webs uses it to warn Cody away from Dani. I didn't really like Dani when I started reading. She was pushy and reckless, but as I read it, I started identifying with her as the youngest child who had to be loud and fast talk to be heard, who had to bull doze her way to get what she wanted because of who she was, not who everyone thought she should be like. Dani is determined. Cody's secret wasn't that bad to her, and she actually wanted to share it. When Dani sets a goal, she's focused, whether it's her designs, Cody, or solving a problem. It puts people on the defensive, including Cody, but he lets her in. I ended up loving it despite some of my issues that reared concerning trust, but then trust is a major theme throughout.
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