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San Francisco Thunder #2
Slammed
Not every goalie plays it safe...
As a publicist for the San Francisco Thunder hockey team, Dixie Braddock is too busy rescuing the players from trouble to get into any of her own. Except, of course, when it comes to the super hot new goalie. Because when a guy's kiss curls your toes and sets your heart on fire, how the hell do you just walk away? But if anyone ever catches them together, she'll lose her job faster than any slapshot.
Eli Casco is on the brink of having everything he ever wanted. He's finally been called up from the minor leagues to play on a championship team. And he just had the most mind-blowing night with the woman of his dreams. But now that he's an official Thunder player, Dixie is determined to keep her distance. None of the fame and fortune means anything to him without her to share it. If he truly wants Dixie in his life, it's time to throw down his gloves and put everything on the line.
The San Francisco Thunder series: Score
As a publicist for the San Francisco Thunder hockey team, Dixie Braddock is too busy rescuing the players from trouble to get into any of her own. Except, of course, when it comes to the super hot new goalie. Because when a guy's kiss curls your toes and sets your heart on fire, how the hell do you just walk away? But if anyone ever catches them together, she'll lose her job faster than any slapshot.
Eli Casco is on the brink of having everything he ever wanted. He's finally been called up from the minor leagues to play on a championship team. And he just had the most mind-blowing night with the woman of his dreams. But now that he's an official Thunder player, Dixie is determined to keep her distance. None of the fame and fortune means anything to him without her to share it. If he truly wants Dixie in his life, it's time to throw down his gloves and put everything on the line.
The San Francisco Thunder series: Score
336 pages, Paperback
First published December 5, 2017
55 people are currently reading
981 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Denault
31 books832 followersSign up for Victoria's monthly newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/cexOL9
Victoria Denault loves ocean air, seventies music, strong heroines and flawed heroes. She is a former journalist, stand-up comic and corporate marketing minion. Victoria is a Canadian and former Californian who currently lives in a 225 year-old house with her husband, their Chihuahua Maximus and more spiders than she cares to think about.
Victoria Denault loves ocean air, seventies music, strong heroines and flawed heroes. She is a former journalist, stand-up comic and corporate marketing minion. Victoria is a Canadian and former Californian who currently lives in a 225 year-old house with her husband, their Chihuahua Maximus and more spiders than she cares to think about.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
January 20, 2018
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.
Oh my gosh. This book. I loved this book! When this book made its way to my house, I really hadn't heard much about it. One look at that yummy cover and I bumped it close to the top of my reading schedule. I took another look at the cover and noticed the hockey stick and was completely sold so I decided to forget about reading schedules and just started reading this book. And I didn't want to stop. I fell completely in love with this book and am so happy that it made its way into my hands.
This story focuses on Dixie and Elijah. Dixie works in the PR department at the San Francisco Thunder hockey team. Her brother is a star player on the team but Dixie is keeping that little piece of information under wraps. Elijah, or Eli, is an up and coming hockey player. His brother is the captain of the San Francisco Thunder and Eli is a goalie for their minor league team.
Dixie and Eli are fantastic together from the very start. I could almost feel their chemistry dripping off of the pages before I even finished the prologue. I wanted to see these two figure out how to be together from the very start. Dixie works for the Thunder and is very dedicated to her job which happens to have rules about employees dating players. Eli doesn't play for the Thunder so a little flirting couldn't hurt. Oh boy, how these two flirt! Their flirting was a lot of fun. It was sexy at times and often funny. They pass cheesy lines back and forth which I found completely amusing.
There is some drama in the story but I loved how there was never any doubt as to what Dixie and Eli felt for each other. Eli has some issues to deal with from his past which kept things interesting while Dixie had some serious family issues to handle. Dixie and Eli had things going on in their life but they always wanted each other. They just had to figure out a way to make that happen.
I would highly recommend this book to others. It had the perfect mix of romance, heat, and humor to really keep the pages turning. This is the second book in the San Francisco Thunder series but I read it as a stand alone with absolutely no problem. This was the first time that I have read Victoria Denault's work but I am looking forward to reading more from her in the near future.
I received an advanced reader edition of this book from Forever (Grand Central Publishing).
Initial Thoughts
I loved this book! Eli and Dixie were so good together. They had amazing chemistry and just seemed to be having a lot of fun with each other. The bad lines that they used with each other were fantastic.
Oh my gosh. This book. I loved this book! When this book made its way to my house, I really hadn't heard much about it. One look at that yummy cover and I bumped it close to the top of my reading schedule. I took another look at the cover and noticed the hockey stick and was completely sold so I decided to forget about reading schedules and just started reading this book. And I didn't want to stop. I fell completely in love with this book and am so happy that it made its way into my hands.
This story focuses on Dixie and Elijah. Dixie works in the PR department at the San Francisco Thunder hockey team. Her brother is a star player on the team but Dixie is keeping that little piece of information under wraps. Elijah, or Eli, is an up and coming hockey player. His brother is the captain of the San Francisco Thunder and Eli is a goalie for their minor league team.
Dixie and Eli are fantastic together from the very start. I could almost feel their chemistry dripping off of the pages before I even finished the prologue. I wanted to see these two figure out how to be together from the very start. Dixie works for the Thunder and is very dedicated to her job which happens to have rules about employees dating players. Eli doesn't play for the Thunder so a little flirting couldn't hurt. Oh boy, how these two flirt! Their flirting was a lot of fun. It was sexy at times and often funny. They pass cheesy lines back and forth which I found completely amusing.
There is some drama in the story but I loved how there was never any doubt as to what Dixie and Eli felt for each other. Eli has some issues to deal with from his past which kept things interesting while Dixie had some serious family issues to handle. Dixie and Eli had things going on in their life but they always wanted each other. They just had to figure out a way to make that happen.
I would highly recommend this book to others. It had the perfect mix of romance, heat, and humor to really keep the pages turning. This is the second book in the San Francisco Thunder series but I read it as a stand alone with absolutely no problem. This was the first time that I have read Victoria Denault's work but I am looking forward to reading more from her in the near future.
I received an advanced reader edition of this book from Forever (Grand Central Publishing).
Initial Thoughts
I loved this book! Eli and Dixie were so good together. They had amazing chemistry and just seemed to be having a lot of fun with each other. The bad lines that they used with each other were fantastic.
December 6, 2017
Slammed is officially my favorite book by Victoria Denault! This book was pure perfection from start to finish and I didn't want it to end! Slammed is book 2 in the San Francisco Thunder series, but can be read as a stand alone. I do recommend reading the first book, however, since Score is fantastic and several of the characters, including the hero and heroine, appear in both books.
I loved Eli and Dixie right from the beginning and couldn't get enough of them! Their initial meeting was equal parts silly and sweet as it was sexy and fun. The witty banter and innuendo was absolutely hilarious and the sexual chemistry was so damn hot! All of the build up and push and pull made things absolutely explosive!
I honestly couldn't stop the goofy grin from forming on my face while reading their cheesy pick up lines and text messages. There are some more serious times in the book, but these texts and stolen moments helped lighten the mood and balanced the story well. I loved that there wasn't any unnecessary drama and that the conflict felt realistic and believable. It's rare that I like the hero and heroine equally, but this time I truly fell in love with both Eli and Dixie. Both of them were charismatic, intelligent, and driven individuals with issues to overcome, but this only endeared me to them and made them more relatable.
The Braddock family was another highlight of the book. The entire family is of course amazing and I loved the bond between all the siblings, especially the sorority. These 3 sisters are so supportive and loving to each other, but they also have no filter and hold nothing back. I can't even imagine how Jude felt growing up as the lone brother! Speaking of Jude, it was wonderful to catch up with him and Zoey and I loved his moments with Dixie. Their back and forth about the sex of the future Braddock had me giggling like a fool. Family plays such a vital role in this book and I really applaud the author for showing it in all of its brightest and darkest moments.
I can't recommend this book enough! You definitely do not want to miss Slammed!
I loved Eli and Dixie right from the beginning and couldn't get enough of them! Their initial meeting was equal parts silly and sweet as it was sexy and fun. The witty banter and innuendo was absolutely hilarious and the sexual chemistry was so damn hot! All of the build up and push and pull made things absolutely explosive!
I honestly couldn't stop the goofy grin from forming on my face while reading their cheesy pick up lines and text messages. There are some more serious times in the book, but these texts and stolen moments helped lighten the mood and balanced the story well. I loved that there wasn't any unnecessary drama and that the conflict felt realistic and believable. It's rare that I like the hero and heroine equally, but this time I truly fell in love with both Eli and Dixie. Both of them were charismatic, intelligent, and driven individuals with issues to overcome, but this only endeared me to them and made them more relatable.
The Braddock family was another highlight of the book. The entire family is of course amazing and I loved the bond between all the siblings, especially the sorority. These 3 sisters are so supportive and loving to each other, but they also have no filter and hold nothing back. I can't even imagine how Jude felt growing up as the lone brother! Speaking of Jude, it was wonderful to catch up with him and Zoey and I loved his moments with Dixie. Their back and forth about the sex of the future Braddock had me giggling like a fool. Family plays such a vital role in this book and I really applaud the author for showing it in all of its brightest and darkest moments.
I can't recommend this book enough! You definitely do not want to miss Slammed!
March 19, 2018
“Do you mind if I follow you home tonight?" I ask her with a serious stare. "Because my mother always told me to follow my dreams.”
Slammed was my first book by Victoria Denault.
Slammed had all the great ingredients. It had sass, amazing banter, goofy lines and a whole lot of romance. Just perfect!
Slammed's prologue let us see the first meeting between the main characters. Dixie Braddock is running late for her first day at her new job as PR for the San Francisco Thunder when she meets Eli. They shared a passionate kiss before both learn who the other one is. Fast forward a year later, and now Dixie and Eli are about to see each other again.
Dixie Braddock is loving her job. She's a workaholic but she also spends plenty of time with her family. She's Jude Braddock's sister who plays for the Thunder. Yet, Dixie wants her relationship with Jude to be under wraps. She doesn't want people thinking she got the job because of who her sibling is. She has worked hard to be where she's at and nothing will interfere with her destiny except a certain goalie she can't seem to forget.
Elijah "Eli" Casco is currently part of the hockey minor league for the Thunder. His brother Levi is the captain of the Thunder. They have a great relationship although neither gets along very well with their parents. Eli left college to follow his dream but an injury in the rink almost took his life. He's still dealing with its repercussions when he meets Dixie. He wants to prove that he can move to the NHL as their goalie but even he has doubts about his own capacity.
It was so easy to love Slammed. Both main characters were delightful. Their banter and skype conversations were all entertaining. I laughed and grinned through the book many times.
I also need to mention how much I enjoyed Dixie's family. Her sisters are a hoot and her relationship with Jude was a strong one too. The Braddock siblings' love for their parents was perfectly clear for everyone to see. Same with Eli and Levi. They had a great relationship too.
Even though I didn't read Score, I think you can read Slammed as a standalone. Saying that I need to go back and read it. Jude and Zoey's story has to be an interesting one.
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Forever in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
January 8, 2018
Slammed was the second book in the San Francisco Thunder series by Victoria Denault.
Elijah “Eli” Casco was the younger brother to the Thunder team captain, Levi. Eli was a goalie and started out in the minors but was called up to the NHL on several occasions until he got his big break. On one of those occasions he met Dixie Wynn, a Thunder PR rep, and the sister to one of the star players, Jude Braddock. Eli and Dixie didn’t know the other’s background and they shared an unforgettable kiss but then left it alone.
Eli and Dixie had sparks from the beginning but there was a serious no fraternization rule in their contracts so they couldn’t pursue anything serious. The storyline then highlighted their interactions and the pull that kept them gravitating towards each other. It was sweet and emotional but Denault also included loads of humor. As a result, I enjoyed the characters tremendously.
Slammed was written with a dual POV. It was well written with dimension, depth and complexity. Denault included so many intriguing characters that I have no idea her direction next, but I’m looking forward to wherever she chooses to lead.
Elijah “Eli” Casco was the younger brother to the Thunder team captain, Levi. Eli was a goalie and started out in the minors but was called up to the NHL on several occasions until he got his big break. On one of those occasions he met Dixie Wynn, a Thunder PR rep, and the sister to one of the star players, Jude Braddock. Eli and Dixie didn’t know the other’s background and they shared an unforgettable kiss but then left it alone.
Eli and Dixie had sparks from the beginning but there was a serious no fraternization rule in their contracts so they couldn’t pursue anything serious. The storyline then highlighted their interactions and the pull that kept them gravitating towards each other. It was sweet and emotional but Denault also included loads of humor. As a result, I enjoyed the characters tremendously.
Slammed was written with a dual POV. It was well written with dimension, depth and complexity. Denault included so many intriguing characters that I have no idea her direction next, but I’m looking forward to wherever she chooses to lead.
November 27, 2017
Thank you HBG Canada for sending me this ARC of Slammed by Victoria Denault!!
So unfortunately I haven't read the first book yet about Jude and Zoey but I have it ordered and I'm going to read it as soon as possible!
I love love love hockey romance novels! I think it's because I'm into hockey and I actually enjoy watching it so reading some novels about it is always a huge plus!
Dixie and Eli are the focus of this book! Dixie is Jude Braddock's youngest sister and PR person for the NHL team he plays for. One evening she gets stuck in an elevator and experiences the most passionate kiss of her life with Eli, only to find out he might be called up to play for the San Francisco Thunder!!!
Kissing (and pretty much everything sexual) is forbidden from staff to players!
But they can't hold back what is starting to develop between them!
On a crazy ride to keep their relationship as secretive as possible, this book had me turning pages until I finished it.
I always loved having the POV of both characters. It makes me feel like I can know exactly what they're thinking and I get mad when the characters don't know (or pretend) that there's something between them.
If you like sports and romance then you will love this book and series! Coming December 5!!!
So unfortunately I haven't read the first book yet about Jude and Zoey but I have it ordered and I'm going to read it as soon as possible!
I love love love hockey romance novels! I think it's because I'm into hockey and I actually enjoy watching it so reading some novels about it is always a huge plus!
Dixie and Eli are the focus of this book! Dixie is Jude Braddock's youngest sister and PR person for the NHL team he plays for. One evening she gets stuck in an elevator and experiences the most passionate kiss of her life with Eli, only to find out he might be called up to play for the San Francisco Thunder!!!
Kissing (and pretty much everything sexual) is forbidden from staff to players!
But they can't hold back what is starting to develop between them!
On a crazy ride to keep their relationship as secretive as possible, this book had me turning pages until I finished it.
I always loved having the POV of both characters. It makes me feel like I can know exactly what they're thinking and I get mad when the characters don't know (or pretend) that there's something between them.
If you like sports and romance then you will love this book and series! Coming December 5!!!
November 19, 2017
Rating: 4.5 Stars
I L-O-V-E-D this book! I am generally a big fan of hockey romances, and I have enjoyed the books I read in Denault's Hometown Players series, but this book just had the perfect combination of all my favorite elements.
Who?
Dixie Braddock, publicist for the San Francisco Thunder and kid sister of their star player, who is trying to keep the sister thing under wraps as she makes her way through the PR ranks of the Thunder's organization.
Eli Casco, an up and coming goalie, who came back from an injury to make his bid for the NHL and now must unpack his baggage if he hopes to earn a permanent spot on the team.
What?
Eli and Dixie shared a kiss that they could not forget, and try to pick up where they started a year later. Just when it seemed both were ready to attempt to further this relationship, Eli is called up to the Thunder, and that puts him off limits due to the non-fraternization policy.
Why?
I loved so many things about this book.
• Dixie was fabulous. She was sassy and strong and went after things she wanted.
• Eli was so fun. I swear I smiled almost every time he was on page. He was also the more romantic of the two, and he made me laugh so much. I was actually reading his cheesy pickup lines to my neighbor at work, and we got a good chuckle out of them. They became something I looked forward to, and Denault wrote him some good ones.
• Dixie's family was fantastic. Her sisters were hilarious, and it was so much fun when all three were together. Her parents were absolutely adorable, and there was just so much love between them all. #FamilyGoals
• This is the sort of drama I enjoy in a romance too, because it was not between the hero and heroine, but it still complicated things for them. So, you get the tension, without the cliche things you normally see causing issues in a relationship.
• The banter was pretty top notch, and made me laugh tons. But there was also some really sweet and serious discussions, that made me swoon and sigh.
• I was so happy with the multiple dimensions Denault gave to both Eli and Dixie. Just when you thought that was all they had in them, a little something more was revealed. I especially loved seeing Eli's gentle side. He came through in a big why when he really needed to.
• A GRAND GESTURE!!! I am a diehard fan of Say Anything, and am a certified sucker for any sort of grand gesture. I thought the one Denault gave me was rather wonderful, and it came out of nowhere, so it was even better, because I didn't expect it. There was things that happened, which I expected, but I didn't expected it to happen like THAT.
• I want to list the brotherly love separately because both Dixie and Eli shared great relationship with their big brothers, and we got to share some really meaningful moments with them. I don't know about you, but I eat that stuff up.
• The ending was fantastic. I must be getting lucky with endings lately, because usually I complain a lot about them, but this one made me so happy. The last chapter, coupled with the epilogue just left me in a highly elated state.
Overall: This book checked off all the right boxes for me. A great hero and heroine, lots of feels, a hot and sweet romance, fantastic familial elements, hockey, and just the right combination of heat, humor, and drama.
I L-O-V-E-D this book! I am generally a big fan of hockey romances, and I have enjoyed the books I read in Denault's Hometown Players series, but this book just had the perfect combination of all my favorite elements.
Who?
Dixie Braddock, publicist for the San Francisco Thunder and kid sister of their star player, who is trying to keep the sister thing under wraps as she makes her way through the PR ranks of the Thunder's organization.
Eli Casco, an up and coming goalie, who came back from an injury to make his bid for the NHL and now must unpack his baggage if he hopes to earn a permanent spot on the team.
What?
Eli and Dixie shared a kiss that they could not forget, and try to pick up where they started a year later. Just when it seemed both were ready to attempt to further this relationship, Eli is called up to the Thunder, and that puts him off limits due to the non-fraternization policy.
Why?
I loved so many things about this book.
• Dixie was fabulous. She was sassy and strong and went after things she wanted.
• Eli was so fun. I swear I smiled almost every time he was on page. He was also the more romantic of the two, and he made me laugh so much. I was actually reading his cheesy pickup lines to my neighbor at work, and we got a good chuckle out of them. They became something I looked forward to, and Denault wrote him some good ones.
• Dixie's family was fantastic. Her sisters were hilarious, and it was so much fun when all three were together. Her parents were absolutely adorable, and there was just so much love between them all. #FamilyGoals
• This is the sort of drama I enjoy in a romance too, because it was not between the hero and heroine, but it still complicated things for them. So, you get the tension, without the cliche things you normally see causing issues in a relationship.
• The banter was pretty top notch, and made me laugh tons. But there was also some really sweet and serious discussions, that made me swoon and sigh.
• I was so happy with the multiple dimensions Denault gave to both Eli and Dixie. Just when you thought that was all they had in them, a little something more was revealed. I especially loved seeing Eli's gentle side. He came through in a big why when he really needed to.
• A GRAND GESTURE!!! I am a diehard fan of Say Anything, and am a certified sucker for any sort of grand gesture. I thought the one Denault gave me was rather wonderful, and it came out of nowhere, so it was even better, because I didn't expect it. There was things that happened, which I expected, but I didn't expected it to happen like THAT.
• I want to list the brotherly love separately because both Dixie and Eli shared great relationship with their big brothers, and we got to share some really meaningful moments with them. I don't know about you, but I eat that stuff up.
• The ending was fantastic. I must be getting lucky with endings lately, because usually I complain a lot about them, but this one made me so happy. The last chapter, coupled with the epilogue just left me in a highly elated state.
Overall: This book checked off all the right boxes for me. A great hero and heroine, lots of feels, a hot and sweet romance, fantastic familial elements, hockey, and just the right combination of heat, humor, and drama.
December 5, 2017
***ARC Provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley***
4.5 Stars
So many forbidden romances aren't really forbidden and end up resolving with none of the drama that the characters expected, so in a way, I really enjoyed this one. Eli is a goalie and Dixie is in the PR department for the San Francicso Thunder hockey team. A relationship is forbidden, and termination for the PR person in the relationship is a guarantee.
So, this becomes about 2 people who want to be together, and who can't, because of a circumstance that is not easily changed. And, I liked that the attraction is enough for them to be willing to at least consider the alternatives, to consider that maybe the relationship they are building is one that is worth some sacrifice.
I also liked that the plotting of the book allowed them to start their relationship when it wasn't actually forbidden, to give them a chance to see if they wanted to be together, and to deal with the budding attraction while it is still technically not against the rules.
The sex was hot, the connection felt real, and there were little touches that made Eli seem incredibly approachable and down to earth (and, those were the worst pick up lines in the history of pick up lines) and it made you understand the attraction to Eli that Dixie wants to fight, and ignore, but can't.
I loved that I believed the ending. As I said in the beginning of the review, there were some changes that needed to be made in order for Eli and Dixie to have a real shot at being together. I loved that the changes both worked and seemed to come about more organically, as it left me with the belief that this is a couple who will be together for the long haul.
I recommend this title.
4.5 Stars
So many forbidden romances aren't really forbidden and end up resolving with none of the drama that the characters expected, so in a way, I really enjoyed this one. Eli is a goalie and Dixie is in the PR department for the San Francicso Thunder hockey team. A relationship is forbidden, and termination for the PR person in the relationship is a guarantee.
So, this becomes about 2 people who want to be together, and who can't, because of a circumstance that is not easily changed. And, I liked that the attraction is enough for them to be willing to at least consider the alternatives, to consider that maybe the relationship they are building is one that is worth some sacrifice.
I also liked that the plotting of the book allowed them to start their relationship when it wasn't actually forbidden, to give them a chance to see if they wanted to be together, and to deal with the budding attraction while it is still technically not against the rules.
The sex was hot, the connection felt real, and there were little touches that made Eli seem incredibly approachable and down to earth (and, those were the worst pick up lines in the history of pick up lines) and it made you understand the attraction to Eli that Dixie wants to fight, and ignore, but can't.
I loved that I believed the ending. As I said in the beginning of the review, there were some changes that needed to be made in order for Eli and Dixie to have a real shot at being together. I loved that the changes both worked and seemed to come about more organically, as it left me with the belief that this is a couple who will be together for the long haul.
I recommend this title.
December 2, 2017
review to come
April 14, 2022
3 stars.
The heroine’s name is Dixie Winn I almost DNFed this 4 minutes in.
Dixie. Fucking. Winn.
Like the grocery store. Or the dog.
I lost my mind.
Other than that… well, it was a book. Inoffensive, but not particularly entertaining either. I was definitely ready for it to be finished.
Contains: goalie hero, farm team player pulled up, hookup, stuck in elevator, team employee heroine, against company policy, secret hookups, just once to get it out of our systems, oops still not out of our systems
CW: father with ALS, sexual proposition by boss, graphic (and repeated) description of life-threatening hockey injury, PTSD from said injury
2.5 heat (a few scenes, pretty brief)
The heroine’s name is Dixie Winn I almost DNFed this 4 minutes in.
Dixie. Fucking. Winn.
Like the grocery store. Or the dog.
I lost my mind.
Other than that… well, it was a book. Inoffensive, but not particularly entertaining either. I was definitely ready for it to be finished.
Contains: goalie hero, farm team player pulled up, hookup, stuck in elevator, team employee heroine, against company policy, secret hookups, just once to get it out of our systems, oops still not out of our systems
CW: father with ALS, sexual proposition by boss, graphic (and repeated) description of life-threatening hockey injury, PTSD from said injury
2.5 heat (a few scenes, pretty brief)
February 14, 2018
This review was originally posted on Andi's ABCs
It was strongly suggested I read Slammed, so I went against my policy of starting a series from the beginning and picked this one up. I'm so happy that I did. It was a really fun book. Eli and Dixie had the most amazing chemistry from the beginning to the end and I didn't get that romance reading anxiety from the break-up that almost always comes. Because of how the story was written I wasn't anxious for the dreaded moment and I really appreciated that. As a fan of hockey romances (I read a lot of them), this was definitely up there as a favorite and I'm grateful I broken my rule. After meeting Eli and Dixie I will happily go back and read book one
It was strongly suggested I read Slammed, so I went against my policy of starting a series from the beginning and picked this one up. I'm so happy that I did. It was a really fun book. Eli and Dixie had the most amazing chemistry from the beginning to the end and I didn't get that romance reading anxiety from the break-up that almost always comes. Because of how the story was written I wasn't anxious for the dreaded moment and I really appreciated that. As a fan of hockey romances (I read a lot of them), this was definitely up there as a favorite and I'm grateful I broken my rule. After meeting Eli and Dixie I will happily go back and read book one
November 28, 2017
I can’t put my finger on what exactly made it so, but this book felt deeply romantic to me. Like, I can’t even tell you how many times I sighed and swooned, and generally bubbled over with happy-hearted satisfaction. Slammed somehow managed to be adorable, sexy, giggle out loud funny, and full of whatever that magic it is that puts butterflies in my belly and giant blissed-out smiles on my face. To put it simply: I loved it. L-O-V-E-D it.
Eli Casco. Lord, y’all. This guy. I could not have adored him more. Not even one tiny smidge more. He was my perfect hero: a little bit goofy, a little bit cocky, strong but kind and willing to move mountains for the woman he loves. I am so crazy about this hero. I loved his story so much. His chemistry with Dixie (whom I was already half in love with when she was just part of “the sorority” in Score) was an almost tangible thing for me. I connected with them basically immediately, my heart jumped right on board and I spent nearly the entirety of this book feeling like I was falling in love with their love story. And that is exactly how I want to feel when I’m reading a romance, so it’s safe to say that Slammed hit every single one of my sweet spots.
The Braddock family, who I first met in Score continued to charm the heck out of me. I loved the good-natured antagonistic relationship between all the siblings, and that pure, sweet, boisterous love that this whole family has for each other. I loved the emotional and heartwarming secondary storylines going on here, and I especially loved how that connected to, and facilitated the forbidden romance brewing between Dixie and Eli.
Honest to God, you guys, this book is the whole package. This is only the second book I’ve read by Ms. Denault but I’m emphatically, enthusiastically, and wholeheartedly on board for more. This book was just an absolute delight! If you like your hockey hotties full of humor, heart and heat, you definitely do not want to miss out on this story! ~ Shelly, 5 Stars
Eli Casco. Lord, y’all. This guy. I could not have adored him more. Not even one tiny smidge more. He was my perfect hero: a little bit goofy, a little bit cocky, strong but kind and willing to move mountains for the woman he loves. I am so crazy about this hero. I loved his story so much. His chemistry with Dixie (whom I was already half in love with when she was just part of “the sorority” in Score) was an almost tangible thing for me. I connected with them basically immediately, my heart jumped right on board and I spent nearly the entirety of this book feeling like I was falling in love with their love story. And that is exactly how I want to feel when I’m reading a romance, so it’s safe to say that Slammed hit every single one of my sweet spots.
The Braddock family, who I first met in Score continued to charm the heck out of me. I loved the good-natured antagonistic relationship between all the siblings, and that pure, sweet, boisterous love that this whole family has for each other. I loved the emotional and heartwarming secondary storylines going on here, and I especially loved how that connected to, and facilitated the forbidden romance brewing between Dixie and Eli.
Honest to God, you guys, this book is the whole package. This is only the second book I’ve read by Ms. Denault but I’m emphatically, enthusiastically, and wholeheartedly on board for more. This book was just an absolute delight! If you like your hockey hotties full of humor, heart and heat, you definitely do not want to miss out on this story! ~ Shelly, 5 Stars
March 5, 2019
Meh. It was fun and easy. Not much to it. Cute continuation of the series. I am enjoying the sisters and each ones dynamic personality. My favorite thing about this series is the family ties and vibe between the siblings. It’s what has me hooked. The personal love stories aren’t horrible either, just OK.
July 20, 2018
Dixie has the job of her dreams and has worked hard to get to where she is at in PR for the Thunder hockey team. Nobody she works with knows she is Jude’s sister and she plans to keep it that way. One unexpected meeting in an elevator changes everything for Dixie. She meets Eli Casco, Levi’s brother who plays for the Storm team.
Eli has issues and needs to get through them if he wants any chance at playing for the Thunder team. Something awful happened to him on the ice that almost cost him his life. Will Dixie and Eli be able to find happiness within each other?
Slammed is another perfect shot at making this series even greater! I just fall deeper and deeper in love with these characters with each new story. What I love is that Ms. Denault includes characters from previous stories so we get a glimpse into our favorite couples future. 5 goals to a sexy goalie and his lady!
Eli has issues and needs to get through them if he wants any chance at playing for the Thunder team. Something awful happened to him on the ice that almost cost him his life. Will Dixie and Eli be able to find happiness within each other?
Slammed is another perfect shot at making this series even greater! I just fall deeper and deeper in love with these characters with each new story. What I love is that Ms. Denault includes characters from previous stories so we get a glimpse into our favorite couples future. 5 goals to a sexy goalie and his lady!
December 2, 2017
Our flame was extinguished before it even got to glow. But damn, I can still feel its warmth, and it’s nice to know he can too.
Guys, guys, guys. You need to be reading this series from Victoria Denault. Slammed is only the second book of hers I have read and yet, I am already addicted to her style of writing. There’s just something about it, about this book. I don’t know that I can quite explain it, but it’s tangible and it’s real and it just maybe doesn’t have a name. Except for WOW. This book absolutely has that WOW factor that truly fantastic romance novels do.
And maybe it comes from Elijah. After all, the man is swoon personified. From his terrible (and terribly hilarious) pick-up lines to the way he calls his girl “Sweet Dixie” to the obstacles he’s fighting to overcome in his relationship and career, this man encompasses everything—Every. Single. Thing—a hero in a book like this should. But then again, as the heroine of this terrific tale, so does Dixie.
So, maybe it was she who elevated this book to the next level. I mean, her sass was on point—funny yet appropriately cutting when necessary—and her vulnerabilities able to make her feel so very human. I love-love-LOVED the hell out of her and her family, not for the first time. Dixie and her sisters (“The Sorority”, as their brother, Jude, calls them) charmed and amused me in Score, and Ms. Denault manages to somehow make them even more charming and amusing this time around.
In fact, everything was even more this time around—and, as someone who loved the first book, that’s saying something. There’s not a thing about Slammed I would change. It had me from page one and became a book I simply did not want to put down. And when I reached the perfect ending, I just wanted to rewind and start all over again. And if that doesn’t convince you that you need to be reading this book, then that’s okay.
That just means I get to keep Eli all to myself.
“Are you propositioning me?”
“I’m just warning you.” I shrug. “I’ve gotten better-looking, and when you see me again you’re going to want a sequel to that kiss—and a whole lot more. And I’m willing to let that happen.”
~ FIVE Save A Horse, Ride A Goalie STARS ~
Guys, guys, guys. You need to be reading this series from Victoria Denault. Slammed is only the second book of hers I have read and yet, I am already addicted to her style of writing. There’s just something about it, about this book. I don’t know that I can quite explain it, but it’s tangible and it’s real and it just maybe doesn’t have a name. Except for WOW. This book absolutely has that WOW factor that truly fantastic romance novels do.
And maybe it comes from Elijah. After all, the man is swoon personified. From his terrible (and terribly hilarious) pick-up lines to the way he calls his girl “Sweet Dixie” to the obstacles he’s fighting to overcome in his relationship and career, this man encompasses everything—Every. Single. Thing—a hero in a book like this should. But then again, as the heroine of this terrific tale, so does Dixie.
So, maybe it was she who elevated this book to the next level. I mean, her sass was on point—funny yet appropriately cutting when necessary—and her vulnerabilities able to make her feel so very human. I love-love-LOVED the hell out of her and her family, not for the first time. Dixie and her sisters (“The Sorority”, as their brother, Jude, calls them) charmed and amused me in Score, and Ms. Denault manages to somehow make them even more charming and amusing this time around.
In fact, everything was even more this time around—and, as someone who loved the first book, that’s saying something. There’s not a thing about Slammed I would change. It had me from page one and became a book I simply did not want to put down. And when I reached the perfect ending, I just wanted to rewind and start all over again. And if that doesn’t convince you that you need to be reading this book, then that’s okay.
That just means I get to keep Eli all to myself.
“Are you propositioning me?”
“I’m just warning you.” I shrug. “I’ve gotten better-looking, and when you see me again you’re going to want a sequel to that kiss—and a whole lot more. And I’m willing to let that happen.”
~ FIVE Save A Horse, Ride A Goalie STARS ~
February 17, 2018
I received a copy via Net Galley and voluntarily left a review
Something about the heat that Victoria's fictional hockey heroes demonstrate both and an off the ice, keep me addicted and waiting impatiently for the next book. So every time I have a chance to crack open a new read by the talented Victoria Denault and catch another glimpse at love with these muscled book boyfriends, I am over the moon with excitement. This go around Victoria gives us a delicious goalie and a stubborn and sassy PR rep for the San Francisco Thunder. Together Dixie and Eli are sexy innuendos, smoldering looks, and simmering uncontrollable desire.
Eli Casco is all kinds of crazy hot and I was drawn to him like a moth to the flame from the moment he stepped in the elevator with Dixie and started spewing his charm. He had me wrapped around his finger with his “easy going” persona until you scratch below the surface and see the scared guy beneath. Then I was hooked and couldn't wait for him to rock Dixie's world both emotionally and physically. This goalie not only blocks the puck but keeps hearts melting all over the place with his dirty talk and sweet words!
I loved Dixie from the moment I met her as Jude Braddox's little sister in the first book in the series Score. I can't get enough of her feisty, quirky personality and from the moment she met Eli, the sparks flew and I knew that she had met her match! I loved getting inside this heroine's head and heart and seeing all her insecurities and vulnerability that lies underneath all of her humorous bravado.
Victoria Denault scored again with this ice melting romance that has us cheering openly and boisterously for another smokin' hot couple. I highly recommend Slammed for a mouth watering hockey player and his sexy match that are to hot to resist! Victoria always has me swooning over her jock heroes and ready for another chance to get out on the ice and experience the heat, laughter, and heart of her amazing players!
Something about the heat that Victoria's fictional hockey heroes demonstrate both and an off the ice, keep me addicted and waiting impatiently for the next book. So every time I have a chance to crack open a new read by the talented Victoria Denault and catch another glimpse at love with these muscled book boyfriends, I am over the moon with excitement. This go around Victoria gives us a delicious goalie and a stubborn and sassy PR rep for the San Francisco Thunder. Together Dixie and Eli are sexy innuendos, smoldering looks, and simmering uncontrollable desire.
Eli Casco is all kinds of crazy hot and I was drawn to him like a moth to the flame from the moment he stepped in the elevator with Dixie and started spewing his charm. He had me wrapped around his finger with his “easy going” persona until you scratch below the surface and see the scared guy beneath. Then I was hooked and couldn't wait for him to rock Dixie's world both emotionally and physically. This goalie not only blocks the puck but keeps hearts melting all over the place with his dirty talk and sweet words!
I loved Dixie from the moment I met her as Jude Braddox's little sister in the first book in the series Score. I can't get enough of her feisty, quirky personality and from the moment she met Eli, the sparks flew and I knew that she had met her match! I loved getting inside this heroine's head and heart and seeing all her insecurities and vulnerability that lies underneath all of her humorous bravado.
Victoria Denault scored again with this ice melting romance that has us cheering openly and boisterously for another smokin' hot couple. I highly recommend Slammed for a mouth watering hockey player and his sexy match that are to hot to resist! Victoria always has me swooning over her jock heroes and ready for another chance to get out on the ice and experience the heat, laughter, and heart of her amazing players!
April 21, 2019
I am here for the sassy banter! I mean, HOLY CRAP! These two characters are the most fun. Dixie is smart, driven, and hilarious. Eli's lines will make you literally laugh out loud. But the best part is that both of these characters are dealing with some very real and very deep shit. It's just so realistic. Bad things happen, life throws us some real curveballs, but we have to keep going. The humor makes it all the more bearable.
I read this series out of order, which was totally okay, but man I wish I had read this one sooner. I just love the strength of the characters so much. And I sincerely love the Braddock's! I'm a real sucker for family romance series. I'd highly recommend this book, and whole series!!
I read this series out of order, which was totally okay, but man I wish I had read this one sooner. I just love the strength of the characters so much. And I sincerely love the Braddock's! I'm a real sucker for family romance series. I'd highly recommend this book, and whole series!!
December 6, 2017
I think this is the best book ever written by this author!!! This was romantic, sweet, funny and amazing wrapped up in one amazing story!!’ Thank you for writing a wounded hero with a quirky and sassy heroine!! It was the perfect combination!!!
January 8, 2018
I LOVE Victoria's books and devour them - cant wait for the next one!
I just loved Eli & Dixie and did not want it to end!!!
I just loved Eli & Dixie and did not want it to end!!!
March 27, 2018
Really good!
December 11, 2017
Family, feels, heat and hockey – be still my heart….
I couldn’t wait to dive into this second in the series as Dixie and Eli’s non-affair sizzled, simmered and exploded! This series is all about relationships – between lovers, siblings, brothers and sisters of the heart as well as blood and hockey family. They get along, they argue, they rejoice and they grieve and their lives are the sound-bite for real life. Hunky hockey players and kick-butt women live and breathe that life with so much heart I find them completely irresistible!
Eli…
“If a scientist mixed the DNA of a Disney prince and an action hero, this guy would be result.”
“Wow. He’s hot. Am I breathing? I don’t think I’m breathing.”
Eli has never taken the easy way and his struggle for the girl, for his career, has me cheering him on with perhaps more than appropriate enthusiasm. But honestly – he is just… amazing! His relentless pursuit of Dixie is romantic and sweet even as his alpha maleness grunts its way forward from time to time. His gift for creative, aka hilarious, pickup lines made me laugh so hard yet had my heart fluttering even more. His vulnerability, his caring, meant I was firmly on #TeamEli.
Dixie:
“Dixie is tough and brilliantly smart.”
And human. She’s suffering on the inside and Eli makes her feel better than she has in a long time. She carries herself with feminine grace in a man’s world and she pulls it off with perfection even as she struggles internally with a loss she isn’t ready to bear. Eli was forbidden territory and Dixie, devoted to her family and her career, was not going to disappoint anyone. Every stolen text, phone call, skype message and meeting shouldn’t happen. Couldn’t happen. Yet did… It was hot, it was secret and it was everything they couldn’t have…
This story had ALL THE FEELS and ALL THE HEAT! The Braddocks and Cascos – the entire Thunder family – are a warm hug, a swirly noogie and so much goodness I could gush forever… Instead I will simply suggest, RUN to get this book/series!
Made me laugh out loud:
“My beard wants to know if you would like a comfortable place to sit down?”
~Diane, 5 stars
I couldn’t wait to dive into this second in the series as Dixie and Eli’s non-affair sizzled, simmered and exploded! This series is all about relationships – between lovers, siblings, brothers and sisters of the heart as well as blood and hockey family. They get along, they argue, they rejoice and they grieve and their lives are the sound-bite for real life. Hunky hockey players and kick-butt women live and breathe that life with so much heart I find them completely irresistible!
Eli…
“If a scientist mixed the DNA of a Disney prince and an action hero, this guy would be result.”
“Wow. He’s hot. Am I breathing? I don’t think I’m breathing.”
Eli has never taken the easy way and his struggle for the girl, for his career, has me cheering him on with perhaps more than appropriate enthusiasm. But honestly – he is just… amazing! His relentless pursuit of Dixie is romantic and sweet even as his alpha maleness grunts its way forward from time to time. His gift for creative, aka hilarious, pickup lines made me laugh so hard yet had my heart fluttering even more. His vulnerability, his caring, meant I was firmly on #TeamEli.
Dixie:
“Dixie is tough and brilliantly smart.”
And human. She’s suffering on the inside and Eli makes her feel better than she has in a long time. She carries herself with feminine grace in a man’s world and she pulls it off with perfection even as she struggles internally with a loss she isn’t ready to bear. Eli was forbidden territory and Dixie, devoted to her family and her career, was not going to disappoint anyone. Every stolen text, phone call, skype message and meeting shouldn’t happen. Couldn’t happen. Yet did… It was hot, it was secret and it was everything they couldn’t have…
This story had ALL THE FEELS and ALL THE HEAT! The Braddocks and Cascos – the entire Thunder family – are a warm hug, a swirly noogie and so much goodness I could gush forever… Instead I will simply suggest, RUN to get this book/series!
Made me laugh out loud:
“My beard wants to know if you would like a comfortable place to sit down?”
~Diane, 5 stars
December 6, 2017
This is only the third book of Ms. Denault's that I've read but she's very quickly becoming one of my go to authors. I'm a huge fan of Hockey (I am Canadian...It's kinda in my blood 😉) and an even bigger fan of romance novels. Combine the two and you've got the perfect read for me. And this book has so much more than just hockey and romance. I loved the connection that formed between Dixie and Eli which quickly developed into an emotional and amazing relationship. I'm hoping we get more in this series, this one was a definite top read of the year for me.
December 10, 2017
http://openbooksociety.com/article/sl...
Slammed
San Francisco Thunder, Book #2
By Victoria Denault
ISBN# 9781455597680
Author’s Website: http://www.victoriadenault.com/
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Heidi
They met in an elevator. An elevator that broke down with them inside, making her late for an introduction to her idol, the only female hockey franchise owner in the league. He had just been called up from the Thunder’s farm team for a game. His pick-up lines were corny, but his kiss was smoking hot!
“Do you mind if I follow you home tonight?” I ask her with a serious stare. “Because my mother always told me to follow my dreams.”
It’s been a year since that crazy elevator ride. Dixie is still working in the PR department for the Thunder hockey team. The team her brother, Jude, plays on, although it’s important to her that nobody knows they are related. Eli is back on the farm team, the Storm, struggling to overcome his fears from his past injury where his neck was slit open on the ice by a teammate’s skate and he nearly died.
The Thunder is having a fundraiser and wants a couple of Storm players to be present. One of those players is Eli. Neither Eli nor Dixie have forgotten about the other and the attraction and spark is as hot as ever. Since Dixie works for the Thunder she’s not allowed to have any romantic or sexual encounters with the players, but as Eli points out, the Storm players are fair game. They decide to have sex to get each other out of their systems, which of course, only makes the attraction stronger. Then, Eli gets called up to join the Thunder and everything changes. They both have to decide what is more important their relationship or their careers?
I did not read the first book in this series, but I have read one of Denault’s other hockey books, Game On, that I loved! This book can easily be read as a stand-alone though and I found that I really enjoyed it.
I wasn’t sure I could get behind this book at first … Eli’s corny pickup lines were bad … really bad… and then Dixie started throwing in a few of her own. Eventually you just get used to it and it becomes part of their charm, also as the book continues the pickup lines become fewer and further between. There are a few gems that make you laugh though.
“I lean closer to the screen and decide to really push her limits by hitting her with one of those pickup lines she loves to hate. “My beard wants to know if you would like a comfortable place to sit down?”
I really enjoyed this couple. I can respect her need to hide her relationship with her brother from others within the Thunder organization. However, I can also imagine how hard that must have been on not only her, but her brother as well.
I found Eli was a great mix of fun and loyal boyfriend. I loved that he did what was needed when Dixie was going through a hard time while he was on the road. I think it spoke volumes about his character and even Jude couldn’t fault him for it, no matter how much he’d probably like to.
I also enjoyed the sibling bickering between Jude and Dixie!
“I open the door and jump into the passenger seat. Sprinkles leap from the donut and cascade around the car, mostly between my seat and the console.
Jude glares at me. I smile. “Sorry. You know kids are messy. You should get used to it.”
“You’re not a kid anymore. Stop eating my food, messing up my car and demanding I chauffeur you everywhere,” Jude grumbles and starts the engine.”
This was an enjoyable read and I look forward to the next in the series.
And, since it was the ringtone Dixie assigned for Eli on her phone … here is Baby by a very young Justin Bieber.
“Who do you hate enough to give them that ringtone?”
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Slammed
San Francisco Thunder, Book #2
By Victoria Denault
ISBN# 9781455597680
Author’s Website: http://www.victoriadenault.com/
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Heidi
They met in an elevator. An elevator that broke down with them inside, making her late for an introduction to her idol, the only female hockey franchise owner in the league. He had just been called up from the Thunder’s farm team for a game. His pick-up lines were corny, but his kiss was smoking hot!
“Do you mind if I follow you home tonight?” I ask her with a serious stare. “Because my mother always told me to follow my dreams.”
It’s been a year since that crazy elevator ride. Dixie is still working in the PR department for the Thunder hockey team. The team her brother, Jude, plays on, although it’s important to her that nobody knows they are related. Eli is back on the farm team, the Storm, struggling to overcome his fears from his past injury where his neck was slit open on the ice by a teammate’s skate and he nearly died.
The Thunder is having a fundraiser and wants a couple of Storm players to be present. One of those players is Eli. Neither Eli nor Dixie have forgotten about the other and the attraction and spark is as hot as ever. Since Dixie works for the Thunder she’s not allowed to have any romantic or sexual encounters with the players, but as Eli points out, the Storm players are fair game. They decide to have sex to get each other out of their systems, which of course, only makes the attraction stronger. Then, Eli gets called up to join the Thunder and everything changes. They both have to decide what is more important their relationship or their careers?
I did not read the first book in this series, but I have read one of Denault’s other hockey books, Game On, that I loved! This book can easily be read as a stand-alone though and I found that I really enjoyed it.
I wasn’t sure I could get behind this book at first … Eli’s corny pickup lines were bad … really bad… and then Dixie started throwing in a few of her own. Eventually you just get used to it and it becomes part of their charm, also as the book continues the pickup lines become fewer and further between. There are a few gems that make you laugh though.
“I lean closer to the screen and decide to really push her limits by hitting her with one of those pickup lines she loves to hate. “My beard wants to know if you would like a comfortable place to sit down?”
I really enjoyed this couple. I can respect her need to hide her relationship with her brother from others within the Thunder organization. However, I can also imagine how hard that must have been on not only her, but her brother as well.
I found Eli was a great mix of fun and loyal boyfriend. I loved that he did what was needed when Dixie was going through a hard time while he was on the road. I think it spoke volumes about his character and even Jude couldn’t fault him for it, no matter how much he’d probably like to.
I also enjoyed the sibling bickering between Jude and Dixie!
“I open the door and jump into the passenger seat. Sprinkles leap from the donut and cascade around the car, mostly between my seat and the console.
Jude glares at me. I smile. “Sorry. You know kids are messy. You should get used to it.”
“You’re not a kid anymore. Stop eating my food, messing up my car and demanding I chauffeur you everywhere,” Jude grumbles and starts the engine.”
This was an enjoyable read and I look forward to the next in the series.
And, since it was the ringtone Dixie assigned for Eli on her phone … here is Baby by a very young Justin Bieber.
“Who do you hate enough to give them that ringtone?”
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
December 8, 2017
I love Victoria Denault’s hockey romances, and Slammed is another winner. Eli and Dixie fall for each other from when they first meet, but Dixie hesitates to act on her feelings when she discovers Eli plays for the for the minor league team of the one she works for. There’s a rule against coworkers dating, and Dixie is doesn’t want to jeopardize about her career. Eli is sexy and charming, and he convinces her to give him a shot, and they are utterly endearing together. Eli is attempting to move from the minors to the majors, and Dixie is invaluable support. They’re a great team. Slammed is fun, hockey-filled, entertaining and spicy, and I am excited for the next Victoria Denault’s tale on the ice.
ARC provided, but this review was voluntarily and honestly written.
ARC provided, but this review was voluntarily and honestly written.
December 2, 2017
** ARC provided by the author for an honest review **
Do you enjoy cheesy pickup lines and hot hockey players? If you answered yes, and why wouldn’t you, I suggest that you pick up Slammed by Victoria Denault.
Dixie Braddock is the publicist for the San Francisco Thunder hockey team, her job is to keep the players out of trouble. It is an absolute no-no for her to get involved with any of the players on the team, but the new goalie is hard to resist and soon has her hoping no one catches them. If they do, she can kiss her job goodbye.
“Do you mind if I follow you home tonight?" I ask her with a serious stare. "Because my mother always told me to follow my dreams.”
Eli Casco’s dreams are finally becoming reality. He has been called up from the minors to play, and not on just any team, but a championship team. Only one thing could make his life perfect, for Dixie to be his. While she is determined to stay away for the sake of both their careers, Eli is ready to give it all up for her.
Can they find a compromise? Can they have each other and their careers, or is it one or the other?
The best thing about this book? The banter between Eli and Dixie. I found myself rolling with laughter several times. There were also some sweet caring moments thrown in too. Eli is a romantic, who would have thought a tough hockey player would be so sweet. And man, those pickup lines! I think I would have given him a chance just because he was brave enough to use them.
I lean closer to the screen and decide to really push her limits by hitting her with one of those pickup lines she loves to hate. "My beard wants to know if you would like a comfortable place to sit down?”
The connection that both Dixie and Eli have with their families is great. You can really feel the love between them and their siblings and adoring parents. It’s great to see that familial connection, so many books have characters estranged from their family, so it was refreshing to see a strong bond here.
Overall this is a fun and entertaining read. If you don’t like hockey or hockey players before reading, you will by the time you’re finished. Four stars.
Do you enjoy cheesy pickup lines and hot hockey players? If you answered yes, and why wouldn’t you, I suggest that you pick up Slammed by Victoria Denault.
Dixie Braddock is the publicist for the San Francisco Thunder hockey team, her job is to keep the players out of trouble. It is an absolute no-no for her to get involved with any of the players on the team, but the new goalie is hard to resist and soon has her hoping no one catches them. If they do, she can kiss her job goodbye.
“Do you mind if I follow you home tonight?" I ask her with a serious stare. "Because my mother always told me to follow my dreams.”
Eli Casco’s dreams are finally becoming reality. He has been called up from the minors to play, and not on just any team, but a championship team. Only one thing could make his life perfect, for Dixie to be his. While she is determined to stay away for the sake of both their careers, Eli is ready to give it all up for her.
Can they find a compromise? Can they have each other and their careers, or is it one or the other?
The best thing about this book? The banter between Eli and Dixie. I found myself rolling with laughter several times. There were also some sweet caring moments thrown in too. Eli is a romantic, who would have thought a tough hockey player would be so sweet. And man, those pickup lines! I think I would have given him a chance just because he was brave enough to use them.
I lean closer to the screen and decide to really push her limits by hitting her with one of those pickup lines she loves to hate. "My beard wants to know if you would like a comfortable place to sit down?”
The connection that both Dixie and Eli have with their families is great. You can really feel the love between them and their siblings and adoring parents. It’s great to see that familial connection, so many books have characters estranged from their family, so it was refreshing to see a strong bond here.
Overall this is a fun and entertaining read. If you don’t like hockey or hockey players before reading, you will by the time you’re finished. Four stars.
December 8, 2017
3.5*
It's no secret I love sports romances. Slammed is super fun. A quick read.
Was the chemistry flying off the page? No. But I could feel it.
A strong family dynamic is also a major plus.
It's no secret I love sports romances. Slammed is super fun. A quick read.
Was the chemistry flying off the page? No. But I could feel it.
A strong family dynamic is also a major plus.
December 9, 2017
http://www.cocktailsandbooks.com
Thanks to the author for providing a copy of this book vIa Cocktails and Books and Netgalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
This is the second book in the San Francisco Thunder series. I love reading Victoria Denault’s engaging and sexy stories about hot hockey players. This is a charming story with great dynamics between the characters and lots of scorching chemistry. The story has a good plot line is filled with sexual tension and the interactions between the characters are believable, fun and flirty.
Eli is charming, brash and wild. He is a goalie playing in the minor leagues waiting to be called up to play with the San Francisco Thunder. Eli was injured in college and it changes him. He lost his confidence and he doesn’t play with the fearless energy he once did. Dixie loves her job as a publicist with the Thunder. She works very hard and loves hockey. She is attracted to Eli but knows she has to keep her distance because it is unprofessional to get involved with him.
There is an instant connection between Eli and Dixie and tons of chemistry flowing between them. Unfortunately, their relationship is off limits and it is difficult for them to know what to do about their feelings. I loved these two together. They're playful, cute, hot and sexy and I love all their verbal foreplay. They are both dealing with issues but when they are together, everything feels better. I also enjoyed all the highly entertaining secondary characters, especially Dixie’s sisters. They are funny, naughty, full of life and they don’t play by the rules. They are constantly teasing Dixie and trying to get her to lighten up. This is another captivating story by Victoria Denault.
Thanks to the author for providing a copy of this book vIa Cocktails and Books and Netgalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
This is the second book in the San Francisco Thunder series. I love reading Victoria Denault’s engaging and sexy stories about hot hockey players. This is a charming story with great dynamics between the characters and lots of scorching chemistry. The story has a good plot line is filled with sexual tension and the interactions between the characters are believable, fun and flirty.
Eli is charming, brash and wild. He is a goalie playing in the minor leagues waiting to be called up to play with the San Francisco Thunder. Eli was injured in college and it changes him. He lost his confidence and he doesn’t play with the fearless energy he once did. Dixie loves her job as a publicist with the Thunder. She works very hard and loves hockey. She is attracted to Eli but knows she has to keep her distance because it is unprofessional to get involved with him.
There is an instant connection between Eli and Dixie and tons of chemistry flowing between them. Unfortunately, their relationship is off limits and it is difficult for them to know what to do about their feelings. I loved these two together. They're playful, cute, hot and sexy and I love all their verbal foreplay. They are both dealing with issues but when they are together, everything feels better. I also enjoyed all the highly entertaining secondary characters, especially Dixie’s sisters. They are funny, naughty, full of life and they don’t play by the rules. They are constantly teasing Dixie and trying to get her to lighten up. This is another captivating story by Victoria Denault.
December 4, 2017
Despite only seeing one hockey game in my life, I’m actually a big fan of hockey romances. There’s something about the fast paced and physical game that makes for very attractive heroes. Minus the missing teeth of course. Victoria Denault has been a consistent favorite of mine in the hockey genre and I’m very sad that this is her last hockey book for a while. Slammed continues the San Francisco Thunder series. In the previous book, we were introduced to the heroine, Dixie, whose older brother, Jude, was the hero. Dixie works in publicity at the hockey team and is very careful to keep her relationship with her brother a secret. She wants to succeed in her job by her own merit and not because of who she is related. She meets the hero, Eli, one night when they get trapped in an elevator together. They share a passionate kiss but she learns later that Eli plays for the farm team of the Thunder. A year later, Eli, gets called up to the Thunder and their attraction reignites.
There is a definite rule-breaking attraction within this book. Dixie is very aware that she can lose her job if she and Eli act on their chemistry. However, the more time they spend together, the harder it is for them to resist each other. Within this book, Denault explores the double-standard for men and women in professional field. Dixie desperately wanted to work for the Thunder because it has a ground-breaking female owner. However, if she has a relationship with Eli, she will be the one to get fired while he will barely get a slap on wrist. With the current sexual assault scandals in the news now, this feels even more relevant. In addition to the sexual politics, Eli and Dixie are both interesting characters. Eli is a goalie who suffered a near death experience in the net while playing hockey in college. That trauma has affected his game but he is too stubborn to attempt he needs help. Dixie, on the other hand, is dealing with her father dying of ALS and her whole family moving to San Francisco. While a career-threatening relationship might not seem good, the support for Eli is exactly what she needs. The issues both characters face makes their relationship all the more satisfying. This was definitely an exquisite romance and continues to make Victoria Denault a must-read author for me!
There is a definite rule-breaking attraction within this book. Dixie is very aware that she can lose her job if she and Eli act on their chemistry. However, the more time they spend together, the harder it is for them to resist each other. Within this book, Denault explores the double-standard for men and women in professional field. Dixie desperately wanted to work for the Thunder because it has a ground-breaking female owner. However, if she has a relationship with Eli, she will be the one to get fired while he will barely get a slap on wrist. With the current sexual assault scandals in the news now, this feels even more relevant. In addition to the sexual politics, Eli and Dixie are both interesting characters. Eli is a goalie who suffered a near death experience in the net while playing hockey in college. That trauma has affected his game but he is too stubborn to attempt he needs help. Dixie, on the other hand, is dealing with her father dying of ALS and her whole family moving to San Francisco. While a career-threatening relationship might not seem good, the support for Eli is exactly what she needs. The issues both characters face makes their relationship all the more satisfying. This was definitely an exquisite romance and continues to make Victoria Denault a must-read author for me!
December 5, 2017
This story was somehow both a light, easy read and a highly emotional one at the same time. It had an insta-love feel to it while simultaneously feeling like a slow-burning romance. This book is basically an enigma in the absolute best way.
I get so excited when I’m able to really fangirl over the heroine as easily as I swoon for the Hero. Dixie was strong, independent and basically just all around badass. She struggled with her feelings for Eli and her need to keep her distance for her career stability, but I love that she didn’t just simply stop being a kick-ass PR ninja because he was around. She stood up for herself to anyone who needed to be stood up to, even when it was Eli.
Eli was just perfect too. He’s a man who knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to go after it, but still recognizes and respects boundaries. The way Ms. Denault wrote him and the way he was dealing with his previous injury was fantastic. She made it so it was a powerful aspect of the story when he is finally forced to confront it but not so much that it became Eli and Dixie’s entire story.
Throw in the secondary characters and the subtle showcase of Jude and Zoey and their current life together and this book was everything I’ve come to expect from Victoria Denault. Well-developed characters, just enough heat to keep things interesting and a story so well-written you’ll walk away feeling like you were a part of it. Bring on the next book Ms. Denault. I’ll be waiting.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley for voluntary review
I get so excited when I’m able to really fangirl over the heroine as easily as I swoon for the Hero. Dixie was strong, independent and basically just all around badass. She struggled with her feelings for Eli and her need to keep her distance for her career stability, but I love that she didn’t just simply stop being a kick-ass PR ninja because he was around. She stood up for herself to anyone who needed to be stood up to, even when it was Eli.
Eli was just perfect too. He’s a man who knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to go after it, but still recognizes and respects boundaries. The way Ms. Denault wrote him and the way he was dealing with his previous injury was fantastic. She made it so it was a powerful aspect of the story when he is finally forced to confront it but not so much that it became Eli and Dixie’s entire story.
Throw in the secondary characters and the subtle showcase of Jude and Zoey and their current life together and this book was everything I’ve come to expect from Victoria Denault. Well-developed characters, just enough heat to keep things interesting and a story so well-written you’ll walk away feeling like you were a part of it. Bring on the next book Ms. Denault. I’ll be waiting.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley for voluntary review
November 19, 2017
The moment Dixie Braddock's eye's land on Elijah Casco she is completely taken with him, then he speaks to her, and the temperature in the tiny little elevator their sharing starts to rise...and her panties start to melt. The man is beyond gorgeous, tempting as hell, but also very off limits... the Thunder takes their no dating co-workers policy very seriously, and Dixie isn't about to lose her job over any man... no matter how hot he maybe!
Eli Casco is madly in love the moment he meets Dixie she has the voice of an angel and a gorgeous body to boot, and seems mildly interested, so he figures if he drops a few sexy lines she will be all his in a matter of minutes, but to his surprise she turns him down. And also quickly points out that them doing anything other than talking could land them in hot water, but Eli likes to take risks, and he wants Dixie... now he just has to find a way to get her to forget about those pesky rules and lure her in!
Slammed is a naughty little literary romp that is sure to leave readers hearts nice and toasty! This was such a good read, it had the makings of a perfect sports romance read, it came equipped with plenty of sports related content, heavy of the naughty stuff, and had just the right amount of heartfelt emotion. This is my second visit to the series, and I have to admit that Eli just edged Jude out as my favorite, he was sweet, protective, supportive, and had a naughty streak that could not be ignored! I really enjoyed watching the relationship between Dixie and Eli unfold, things may have started off as just a fling, but with each new meeting I saw it blossom into something more, they began to depend on one another, and find something in one another that they never knew they needed or wanted...it was truly beautiful to watch! This one has left me really excited for the next installment in the series, with each one I have read, Ms. Denault has continued to up her game, and take me by surprise...and I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!! Highly recommend you get your hands on this one, you won't be disappointed with what you find!!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this title.
Eli Casco is madly in love the moment he meets Dixie she has the voice of an angel and a gorgeous body to boot, and seems mildly interested, so he figures if he drops a few sexy lines she will be all his in a matter of minutes, but to his surprise she turns him down. And also quickly points out that them doing anything other than talking could land them in hot water, but Eli likes to take risks, and he wants Dixie... now he just has to find a way to get her to forget about those pesky rules and lure her in!
Slammed is a naughty little literary romp that is sure to leave readers hearts nice and toasty! This was such a good read, it had the makings of a perfect sports romance read, it came equipped with plenty of sports related content, heavy of the naughty stuff, and had just the right amount of heartfelt emotion. This is my second visit to the series, and I have to admit that Eli just edged Jude out as my favorite, he was sweet, protective, supportive, and had a naughty streak that could not be ignored! I really enjoyed watching the relationship between Dixie and Eli unfold, things may have started off as just a fling, but with each new meeting I saw it blossom into something more, they began to depend on one another, and find something in one another that they never knew they needed or wanted...it was truly beautiful to watch! This one has left me really excited for the next installment in the series, with each one I have read, Ms. Denault has continued to up her game, and take me by surprise...and I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!! Highly recommend you get your hands on this one, you won't be disappointed with what you find!!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this title.
January 11, 2018
Flirting leads to more than they bargained for in the next San Francisco Thunder novel! Eli and Dixie grabbed my attention from the very start with their adorable flirtiness of semi-forbidden lust! As I got deeper into each of their back stories, it made me grow even fonder of each of them. He had a past trauma that haunted him no matter how much he tried to overcome it, she had a heartache happening that she had no control over ... each looking for comfort in their own way, but finding the strength to support the other through their things before even helping themselves. I really loved this story ... it was sweet, sassy and steamy ... and best of all, full of hockey studs!
Dixie Braddock is living the life now that she's become a permanent publicist for the San Francisco Thunder hockey team! She loves her job and the most of the people around her ... only one part of her life is bringing her down, and there's nothing she can do to control it.
Elijah Casco is instantly attracted to Dixie when he is called up for one game from the Thunder's farm team. Once he returns back to his own team, they continue to text and talk and have a major flirt fest going on. A publicity jaunt that brings them together is the perfect place for them to act on their attraction ... but when they return to reality, they find out that Eli has been called up to the Thunder ... and their relationship is now forbidden!
Dixie Braddock is living the life now that she's become a permanent publicist for the San Francisco Thunder hockey team! She loves her job and the most of the people around her ... only one part of her life is bringing her down, and there's nothing she can do to control it.
Elijah Casco is instantly attracted to Dixie when he is called up for one game from the Thunder's farm team. Once he returns back to his own team, they continue to text and talk and have a major flirt fest going on. A publicity jaunt that brings them together is the perfect place for them to act on their attraction ... but when they return to reality, they find out that Eli has been called up to the Thunder ... and their relationship is now forbidden!
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