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The Callaghans & McFaddens #5
Crossing Center Ice
This contemporary Christian romance novel of 105,000 words is the fourth book in The Callaghans & McFaddens series from USA Today bestselling author Kimberly Rae Jordan. A HANDFUL OF FLOWERS (ASIN: B01APAIXM6) is the prequel to this series.
He’s living the dream…until an injury on the ice threatens it all.
Kenton Callaghan is living his dream. A star NHL player. A sought-after spokesperson. Wanted by beautiful women. If he’s a bit lonely at times, he figures it’s a small price to pay for all the rest. But when an injury threatens to rob him of his career, Kenton has to figure out how far he’s willing to go to get things back to where they were.
She knows all about the professional sports life and has no intention of being involved in it again.
After a lot of time and hard work, Avery Walker finally has her degree in physiotherapy, and her first—and only—client, courtesy of Max Zevardi, is Emily Callaghan. The man who paid for her education through a scholarship has now hired her to work full-time with the woman. She’s grateful for the work, which is flexible enough for her to still be there for her family. It seems like the perfect job—until she meets Kenton Callaghan.
Avery has had experience with professional athletes, and it wasn’t pleasant. Knowing that Kenton will likely seek the quickest way to heal and get back to the game, she is determined to keep her distance from him. But when he turns to her for help with his rehabilitation, Avery feels obliged to help out. But just because she’s agreed for their lives to intersect professionally, it doesn’t mean that any other parts need to.
Kenton has always been up to a challenge whether it’s in his career or his personal life, and the challenge Avery is presenting him is hard to resist. He wants what she can offer him in terms of helping his recovery, but there’s something else there. An aloofness beyond her professional exterior that he wants to understand.
The last thing Avery wants is to see Kenton as anything other than a client. He’s too close to events in her past for her comfort, so keeping him at a distance is a must. There is too much at risk to take a chance, especially when she suspects that Kenton might be crossing a line she can’t tolerate.
If you enjoy heartwarming Christian romance with a focus on love, faith, and family, be sure to check out the other books and series by Kimberly Rae Jordan.
Christian romance series by Kimberly Rae Jordan:
The McKinleys
The Callaghans & McFaddens
Fostered by Love
Home to Collingsworth
Those Karlsson Boys
Other Christian romance books by Kimberly Rae Jordan:
Marrying Kate
403 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 29, 2018
410 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
March 19, 2018
I concur with the vast majority of other reviewers who awarded five-stars to this work. In fact, it is my opinion that this is the best book in the series to date. The near editorial error-free writing was exceptional.
All critical players introduced in the prequel are still present, and additional players join the cast with each book. Except for a character who lost his life in a car accident, all key players have roles in succeeding stories. Even then, that deceased character plays a significant role in the overall story. At this point in the series, the cast of characters is quite large. As with my reviews of all previous books in the series, I believe reading the series in sequence will render the most satisfying and meaningful reading experience. Case in point: A conflict between Bennett and Kenton occurred in the prequel to the series and was a continuing unexplained issue in every book of the series until this book. Finally, the source of the conflict is revealed, and fences mended six books later. That may be a record. However, if the intent is to keep me involved, I can only say, “Mission accomplished!”
I don’t know how Ms. Jordan could have done a better job of characterization. Every player was consistently faithful to the assigned role. No part of the story came across as manufactured merely to add drama. It was as if I was witness to real people reacting to real problems as they made real-life decisions. Well done!
All critical players introduced in the prequel are still present, and additional players join the cast with each book. Except for a character who lost his life in a car accident, all key players have roles in succeeding stories. Even then, that deceased character plays a significant role in the overall story. At this point in the series, the cast of characters is quite large. As with my reviews of all previous books in the series, I believe reading the series in sequence will render the most satisfying and meaningful reading experience. Case in point: A conflict between Bennett and Kenton occurred in the prequel to the series and was a continuing unexplained issue in every book of the series until this book. Finally, the source of the conflict is revealed, and fences mended six books later. That may be a record. However, if the intent is to keep me involved, I can only say, “Mission accomplished!”
I don’t know how Ms. Jordan could have done a better job of characterization. Every player was consistently faithful to the assigned role. No part of the story came across as manufactured merely to add drama. It was as if I was witness to real people reacting to real problems as they made real-life decisions. Well done!
February 5, 2018
What a wonderful story!
I started reading this series from book 3. And, so far, Kenton and Avery's story is my second favorite after Gabe and Maya's. In spite of that, I found this story so very beautiful. It was honest, realistic, and so very moving. I loved learning about Avery's spiritual goals based on the struggles she went through with domestic abuse. I loved reading about Kenton's relationship with his other brothers. Their honest conversations, their sincere interest in his life, and their strong bond in spite of the fact that they are step siblings was so beautiful to see. I also loved reading about the other siblings that I had met earlier on.
If you enjoyed the other books, you will definetly love this one as well.
5 stars from me
I started reading this series from book 3. And, so far, Kenton and Avery's story is my second favorite after Gabe and Maya's. In spite of that, I found this story so very beautiful. It was honest, realistic, and so very moving. I loved learning about Avery's spiritual goals based on the struggles she went through with domestic abuse. I loved reading about Kenton's relationship with his other brothers. Their honest conversations, their sincere interest in his life, and their strong bond in spite of the fact that they are step siblings was so beautiful to see. I also loved reading about the other siblings that I had met earlier on.
If you enjoyed the other books, you will definetly love this one as well.
5 stars from me
January 31, 2018
I loved it!
I loved it! loved it!! loved it!!! I could not put it down and I am now really sleepy😀. I kinda missed reading about the others in the same measure as I the earlier ones. I especially missed Makayla but the guys more than made up. Can't wait to read about Mitch and subsequently Tristan and Ryan. Funny how the two whose friendship brought the families together are still single. (I asked God for Mitch but he gave me all of them! From book 0)
I loved it! loved it!! loved it!!! I could not put it down and I am now really sleepy😀. I kinda missed reading about the others in the same measure as I the earlier ones. I especially missed Makayla but the guys more than made up. Can't wait to read about Mitch and subsequently Tristan and Ryan. Funny how the two whose friendship brought the families together are still single. (I asked God for Mitch but he gave me all of them! From book 0)
September 3, 2018
Inspiring Romance
This is a story of true strength and heartwarming love that survives the up and down of life to find their way to unconditional love.
This is a story of true strength and heartwarming love that survives the up and down of life to find their way to unconditional love.
February 5, 2018
Another feel-good romance from KRJ
I always look forward to her newest book, and I’ve especially been waiting for Kenton’s story. His rift with Bennett needed to be mended, and the rest of the family has long been waiting for him to come home, in so many ways.
Avery is the perfect challenge to draw him in and make Kenton want to be a better man. His relationship with her little brother and son was so very precious and really illustrated how, despite his history, he really does fit well into the C&M clan. Strong men who love deeply and adore children who aren’t their own is a common theme with these guys.
While I didn’t feel quite as emotionally connected as I did to Sammi’s story, this book still met all my expectations and then some. I just love Kimberly’s writing, and she’s created this whole amazing, huge family you can’t help but love. Mitch’s story is next, but I’m now most looking forward Ryan’s! PLEASE tell me we’re going to revisit Blackthorpe and have a little suspense with all the C&M love. Can’t wait!
I always look forward to her newest book, and I’ve especially been waiting for Kenton’s story. His rift with Bennett needed to be mended, and the rest of the family has long been waiting for him to come home, in so many ways.
Avery is the perfect challenge to draw him in and make Kenton want to be a better man. His relationship with her little brother and son was so very precious and really illustrated how, despite his history, he really does fit well into the C&M clan. Strong men who love deeply and adore children who aren’t their own is a common theme with these guys.
While I didn’t feel quite as emotionally connected as I did to Sammi’s story, this book still met all my expectations and then some. I just love Kimberly’s writing, and she’s created this whole amazing, huge family you can’t help but love. Mitch’s story is next, but I’m now most looking forward Ryan’s! PLEASE tell me we’re going to revisit Blackthorpe and have a little suspense with all the C&M love. Can’t wait!
October 7, 2020
Breaking the Ice
I know almost nothing about hockey but I know sports injuries and careers can wreck havoc in the lives of players, families and friends. The injuries to all those in the story as well as the psychological scars were handled so skilfully. Single parents and multi generational homes are more common than we may want to think about. They have so many different degrees of function on daily basis. We like happy endings and the Christian information is always welcome. Thank you for both.
I know almost nothing about hockey but I know sports injuries and careers can wreck havoc in the lives of players, families and friends. The injuries to all those in the story as well as the psychological scars were handled so skilfully. Single parents and multi generational homes are more common than we may want to think about. They have so many different degrees of function on daily basis. We like happy endings and the Christian information is always welcome. Thank you for both.
February 10, 2018
I've really enjoyed reading the stories about the Callaghans and McFaddens, and this one was no disappointment. The one thing I wish was stronger was Kenton's return to faith. It just kind of gets mentioned as an afterthought at one point, and although Avery was concerned about his faith earlier in the book, there is no mention of the two of them discussing it at all after he gets straightened out. Otherwise it was great.
March 27, 2018
Slow read
There were several times I wanted to stop reading this book. It was slow reading until about halfway through the book. Up until then I didn't think Avery and Kenton would get together. This was the first book in this series that I've read. I've enjoyed her other books, but this may be the last book I read in this series. I did appreciate the highlight on athletes and their abusive behaviors though.
There were several times I wanted to stop reading this book. It was slow reading until about halfway through the book. Up until then I didn't think Avery and Kenton would get together. This was the first book in this series that I've read. I've enjoyed her other books, but this may be the last book I read in this series. I did appreciate the highlight on athletes and their abusive behaviors though.
June 26, 2019
A great book for television.
Kimberly Rae Jordan wrote a great story in this book. I had difficulty putting it down. Kenton and Avery were the two leads in this book. There were lots of great characters in this story. Reading about Avery's therapies with Kenton after his torn ALL and his Mom"s head aneurysm was very interesting. Going to the hockey games was also interesting and entertaining. You will enjoy this book for sure.
Kimberly Rae Jordan wrote a great story in this book. I had difficulty putting it down. Kenton and Avery were the two leads in this book. There were lots of great characters in this story. Reading about Avery's therapies with Kenton after his torn ALL and his Mom"s head aneurysm was very interesting. Going to the hockey games was also interesting and entertaining. You will enjoy this book for sure.
August 1, 2021
Crossing Center Ice
When I drank coffee for the first time it made me sick. I didn't repeat drinking it. It had one chance. When I ate tomatoes they made me break out in a rash but I continued eating them because I liked them. I didn't let my dislike for one stop me from liking another. I didn't have the experience of our major character but for what she went through I can only imagine how I would have handled it.
When I drank coffee for the first time it made me sick. I didn't repeat drinking it. It had one chance. When I ate tomatoes they made me break out in a rash but I continued eating them because I liked them. I didn't let my dislike for one stop me from liking another. I didn't have the experience of our major character but for what she went through I can only imagine how I would have handled it.
January 16, 2024
This is not the first time I have read this book nor the second and probably more than three times! But I have to admit, I could not put this book down! Like every book in this series it's informative and thought provoking. Although it is a standalone book, it is much better read in sequence with the other books of this series.
Thank you, Ms Jordan for a game bringing us lots of enjoyment, giving us information, And causing us to think!
Thank you, Ms Jordan for a game bringing us lots of enjoyment, giving us information, And causing us to think!
April 19, 2025
Another 5 star goal for Kimberly Rae Jordan!
I thoroughly enjoy reading anything by Kimberly Rae Jordan! Her books are HEA's, but they have a lot of substance in them! I especially like the mini-sermons she has in her books. Take a look if you haven't already. I believe that you will love her stories regardless of the series or individual stories she writes! Definitely, a God-given talent!
I thoroughly enjoy reading anything by Kimberly Rae Jordan! Her books are HEA's, but they have a lot of substance in them! I especially like the mini-sermons she has in her books. Take a look if you haven't already. I believe that you will love her stories regardless of the series or individual stories she writes! Definitely, a God-given talent!
February 3, 2018
Coming Home
Kenton finally comes home due to an injury that could end his career. His mother's therapist agrees to work to help him recover. Avery has her own sounds she's dealing with. Kenton finds you can come home again as he struggles to make changes in his life. A very sweet love story that immediately draws you in.
Kenton finally comes home due to an injury that could end his career. His mother's therapist agrees to work to help him recover. Avery has her own sounds she's dealing with. Kenton finds you can come home again as he struggles to make changes in his life. A very sweet love story that immediately draws you in.
February 7, 2018
Wow
It's like you live the book, it is so well written. Deals with some hard rehab issues, and how easily someone can go down the destructive path of drugs to achieve some aim. Love the family ties! The whole thing tugs at your heart strings. Well done. Awesome book. Can't wait for more of the series😊
It's like you live the book, it is so well written. Deals with some hard rehab issues, and how easily someone can go down the destructive path of drugs to achieve some aim. Love the family ties! The whole thing tugs at your heart strings. Well done. Awesome book. Can't wait for more of the series😊
April 24, 2018
This is book 4 in the series – I haven’t read the previous stories but it didn’t spoil the reading enjoyment of this novel.
This is a contemporary Christian romance, well written with well-presented characters who have challenges in their lives and how they cope with the issues they have to try and overcome.
This is a contemporary Christian romance, well written with well-presented characters who have challenges in their lives and how they cope with the issues they have to try and overcome.
January 2, 2020
Crossing Center Ice
Another really great Christian romance. Avery and Kenton had met during his mother’s therapy. Avery was a physical therapist and she was treating his mother after her aneurysm surgery. Kenton was. Great hockey star who had an injury to his knee resulting in surgery. Theirs was. Complicated romance. Please read, will be worth the effort.
Another really great Christian romance. Avery and Kenton had met during his mother’s therapy. Avery was a physical therapist and she was treating his mother after her aneurysm surgery. Kenton was. Great hockey star who had an injury to his knee resulting in surgery. Theirs was. Complicated romance. Please read, will be worth the effort.
July 22, 2021
Well-worth the read!
It was enjoyable. It was good to see that our character was able to trust. Kenton was able to realize his arrogance and admit his mistakes. Julian was an indication of a series of mistakes. Benjie
was able to heal -- have his needs met for having the male influence in his life. Avery deserved better.
It was enjoyable. It was good to see that our character was able to trust. Kenton was able to realize his arrogance and admit his mistakes. Julian was an indication of a series of mistakes. Benjie
was able to heal -- have his needs met for having the male influence in his life. Avery deserved better.
January 31, 2018
Another Great Book by a Master Storyteller
Kimberly Rae Jordan again gives another well crafted romance in the Callaghan and McFadden series.
The characters interact around the backdrop of Winnipeg.
This book is recommended for Christian romance lovers.
Kimberly Rae Jordan again gives another well crafted romance in the Callaghan and McFadden series.
The characters interact around the backdrop of Winnipeg.
This book is recommended for Christian romance lovers.
February 1, 2018
Best one yet
In previous books, not much information was provide on Kenton. Learning about him and what drive him as a professional to hockey player was very enjoyable. Thanks for a very good read. Looking forward to the next one.
In previous books, not much information was provide on Kenton. Learning about him and what drive him as a professional to hockey player was very enjoyable. Thanks for a very good read. Looking forward to the next one.
February 4, 2018
crossing center ice
I enjoyed this book very much. I have read all of Kimberly Rae Jordan's books and any looking to the one coming in March! Her books hold my interest from Page 1. She is a n excellent writer!
I enjoyed this book very much. I have read all of Kimberly Rae Jordan's books and any looking to the one coming in March! Her books hold my interest from Page 1. She is a n excellent writer!
February 6, 2018
Trust
The knocks in life are hard but love of family, faith & trust in each other and God gets us through. And also the Callaghan & McFaddens. Kenton & Avery learned to trust God that His will be done in their lives. Only then did everything come together for them.
The knocks in life are hard but love of family, faith & trust in each other and God gets us through. And also the Callaghan & McFaddens. Kenton & Avery learned to trust God that His will be done in their lives. Only then did everything come together for them.
February 10, 2018
I love this series
I just wish the author could write faster. The Callahan family are golden people. I have loved every book in the series and K Jordan is one of my favorite authors.
I just wish the author could write faster. The Callahan family are golden people. I have loved every book in the series and K Jordan is one of my favorite authors.
February 11, 2018
Fantastic Book
Like all the other books in this series, this was very enjoyable. Kimberly presents messages in her books to help her readers. Different problems in her books are very inspiring to read and see the outcome of the situation. Looking forward to the next book.
Like all the other books in this series, this was very enjoyable. Kimberly presents messages in her books to help her readers. Different problems in her books are very inspiring to read and see the outcome of the situation. Looking forward to the next book.
May 24, 2018
CROSSING CENTER
Until this book Kenton has not had a prominent role in any of the books except the first novella. I was happy to finally hear his story. Loved Avery, Benji and Elliott-more characters to enjoy in later books.
Until this book Kenton has not had a prominent role in any of the books except the first novella. I was happy to finally hear his story. Loved Avery, Benji and Elliott-more characters to enjoy in later books.
October 12, 2019
Awesome book!
This series was my first time reading from this author, but omg I love her!!! I'm sure she's made my #1 list! This Christian romance series is so good I can't tell you which story I like the best! They all are just awesome
This series was my first time reading from this author, but omg I love her!!! I'm sure she's made my #1 list! This Christian romance series is so good I can't tell you which story I like the best! They all are just awesome
February 1, 2020
This was a great great book.It brought out just how God can change all things I like
This Book. So much showing God is in control. Of our life.God
Is in control of life
Will she
Share
This Book. So much showing God is in control. Of our life.God
Is in control of life
Will she
Share
March 18, 2020
Hockey or family
This book taught us a couple very important truths. God’s will is more important than ours or other people’s. Also, it can be hard to trust when you have been hurt in so many ways, but this is indeed possible with Christ’s strength. Very good!
This book taught us a couple very important truths. God’s will is more important than ours or other people’s. Also, it can be hard to trust when you have been hurt in so many ways, but this is indeed possible with Christ’s strength. Very good!
December 17, 2024
I really loved the book. The creativity of the hockey player falling inlove with the physical therapist was very creative and unique. Would read this book again and I definitelly would recommend it to any one who loves sports.
February 11, 2018
Thanks Kimberly
I loved it just like the other 4
Keep em coming
Anxious for the next one
Waiting with baited breath
I loved it just like the other 4
Keep em coming
Anxious for the next one
Waiting with baited breath
February 25, 2018
Another fantastic read.
The story kept me gripped from start to finish. I had to keep reading to find out how it all panned out between Avery and kenton.
The story kept me gripped from start to finish. I had to keep reading to find out how it all panned out between Avery and kenton.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews