What do you think?
Rate this book
Gold Hockey #1
Blocked
This is her shot.
Brit has the chance to make history by being the first female goalie to play for an NHL team, the San Francisco Gold. So, when she is introduced to Stefan, the Gold's captain, she is determinedly not interested.
Stefan is sexy, charming, and has a publicly documented list of conquests a mile long. But Brit is unwilling to risk mixing business with pleasure, even when that business is wrapped up in a six-foot-plus, gorgeously muscled package. When management pushes Brit and Stefan together in an effort to gain good press for the beleaguered team, Brit finds that her carefully calculated disinterest doesn’t mask her body's desires. The more she falls for Stefan, the more she risks her career.
Will she be able to have it all—a starting position and the heart of the captain? Or will she lose everything?
Brit has the chance to make history by being the first female goalie to play for an NHL team, the San Francisco Gold. So, when she is introduced to Stefan, the Gold's captain, she is determinedly not interested.
Stefan is sexy, charming, and has a publicly documented list of conquests a mile long. But Brit is unwilling to risk mixing business with pleasure, even when that business is wrapped up in a six-foot-plus, gorgeously muscled package. When management pushes Brit and Stefan together in an effort to gain good press for the beleaguered team, Brit finds that her carefully calculated disinterest doesn’t mask her body's desires. The more she falls for Stefan, the more she risks her career.
Will she be able to have it all—a starting position and the heart of the captain? Or will she lose everything?
372 pages, ebook
First published February 25, 2016
1757 people are currently reading
2666 people want to read
About the author
Elise Faber
157 books1,065 followersUSA Today bestselling author, Elise Faber, loves chocolate, Star Wars, and hockey (the order depending on the day and how well her team—the Sharks!—are playing). She and her husband also play as much hockey as they can squeeze into their schedules, so much so that their typical date night is spent on the ice. Elise changes her hair color more often than some people change their socks, loves sparkly things, and is the mom to two exuberant boys. She lives in Northern California. Connect with her in her Facebook group, the Fabinators or email her at elise@elisefaber.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 224 reviews
October 23, 2019
Audiobook review. 3 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️ I love hockey romances and was excited to listen to this story. I liked how mature Stefan was. He comported himself like the leader that he is and was responsible, honest, and kind. Brit was faced with a tough choice and I don’t blame her for her missteps. Both had a natural and easy connection. The secondary characters generated interest and were used effectively.
The plot was centered on the external conflict and I would’ve liked for some more time to be spent on developing the relationship. The pace was good until the climax and then went faster from there. Finally, the resolution/grand gesture... I don’t know if this will make sense to anyone but me but here it is: In my mind I understood that I should feel like the gesture was enough and grand. However, it felt a bit anticlimactic. I didn’t feel the typical satisfaction I’m used to when things are set to rights. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not a bad story, I just feel like there were some missed opportunities.
The narrators, Lacy Laurel and Gregory Salinas, did a great job with their roles. Their performance, to include tone, pitch, pace, and inflections, was solid.
Complementary copy received and voluntarily reviewed.
The plot was centered on the external conflict and I would’ve liked for some more time to be spent on developing the relationship. The pace was good until the climax and then went faster from there. Finally, the resolution/grand gesture... I don’t know if this will make sense to anyone but me but here it is: In my mind I understood that I should feel like the gesture was enough and grand. However, it felt a bit anticlimactic. I didn’t feel the typical satisfaction I’m used to when things are set to rights. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not a bad story, I just feel like there were some missed opportunities.
The narrators, Lacy Laurel and Gregory Salinas, did a great job with their roles. Their performance, to include tone, pitch, pace, and inflections, was solid.
Complementary copy received and voluntarily reviewed.
March 9, 2016
2.5 golden stars
I think it is pretty obvious that I like sports romance books and when I read the blurb of this one I was excited because it seemed a little bit different. I mean the main plot is about a female hockey player who has the opportunity to play for a NHL-male-team. How cool is that?
But the excitement over the plot didn't last long because I couldn't connect with the writing style and the main characters (Stefan and Brit).
I felt like a spectator which had the opportunity to see the POV's of the main characters but my interest switched from one POV to the other without any emotions and at some point I got bored.
But I kept reading and after I while I started to enjoy it.
And then it changed again. I'm aware that there has to be some drama in every book but I expect that the reader is slowly introduced into the story and that all the secrets get resolved towards the end, but I don't like when you're almost at the end and suddenly something new is discovered without being mentioned at any moment before .
And this disappointment resolved almost into DNF at 93%. I mean the blackmailing skills of Susan (member of the club's board) and Jessica (her niece and a reporter) are just...
“Stefan is the best man I know,” Brit said. “You can’t do this to him.” “I can do what I want,” Jessica sneered. “Especially after he refused to take me out. How dare he?” She sniffed. “I mean, come on, I’m—”
I think the characters in general were a little bit immature especially considering their age and this also reflects on the plot.
I think it is pretty obvious that I like sports romance books and when I read the blurb of this one I was excited because it seemed a little bit different. I mean the main plot is about a female hockey player who has the opportunity to play for a NHL-male-team. How cool is that?
But the excitement over the plot didn't last long because I couldn't connect with the writing style and the main characters (Stefan and Brit).
I felt like a spectator which had the opportunity to see the POV's of the main characters but my interest switched from one POV to the other without any emotions and at some point I got bored.
But I kept reading and after I while I started to enjoy it.
And then it changed again. I'm aware that there has to be some drama in every book but I expect that the reader is slowly introduced into the story and that all the secrets get resolved towards the end, but I don't like when you're almost at the end and suddenly something new is discovered without being mentioned at any moment before .
And this disappointment resolved almost into DNF at 93%. I mean the blackmailing skills of Susan (member of the club's board) and Jessica (her niece and a reporter) are just...
“Stefan is the best man I know,” Brit said. “You can’t do this to him.” “I can do what I want,” Jessica sneered. “Especially after he refused to take me out. How dare he?” She sniffed. “I mean, come on, I’m—”
I think the characters in general were a little bit immature especially considering their age and this also reflects on the plot.
February 5, 2016
Powerful and Intense to say the least. Dam! Dam! Dam! Aww Puck it..
By the 3rd chapter you will be rooting for Brit and hating Mike Stewart. By chapter 6 you are rooting for Brit and Stefan to get it on, but Chapter 11...I was bawling like a baby, that chapter hit too close to home for me. had to regroup after that one. By chapter 17 I wanted to attack and punch Sergei and Chapter 18 I wanted to bitchslap Susan and management. I could go on and on and on but...hehe..that would spoil the whole intensity of this book. Just go grab this bestseller and sit back to have your world rocked emotionally.
I pucking Loved this book.
By the 3rd chapter you will be rooting for Brit and hating Mike Stewart. By chapter 6 you are rooting for Brit and Stefan to get it on, but Chapter 11...I was bawling like a baby, that chapter hit too close to home for me. had to regroup after that one. By chapter 17 I wanted to attack and punch Sergei and Chapter 18 I wanted to bitchslap Susan and management. I could go on and on and on but...hehe..that would spoil the whole intensity of this book. Just go grab this bestseller and sit back to have your world rocked emotionally.
I pucking Loved this book.
February 6, 2016
4.5 stars
I loved this book! It had hockey, romance, and the characters were some of my favorites! They say "write what you know" and Faber knows hockey, and apparently romance as well! Her passion for the sport really came through every page. I never played hockey, but I LOVE to watch it! I mean I am from Detroit, aka HOCKEYTOWN!
Hockey is fast paced and the players are so in tune with one another, most days anyway lol, it's very exciting to watch! The brisk chill from the ice, and passionate fans only amp up the whole experience too. I couldn't even imagine how much more so it must be for the players! And I'd be lying if I said there wasn't a few players that I like to pay extra close attention to *cough Henrik Zetterberg cough* So needless to say a hockey romance sounded A-Okay with me!
The best part is it was so well done. A nice slow burn. I really appreciated that Brit and Stefan developed a friendship, and maybe more importantly, a close bond as teammates before things got romantic. That paired with their off the chart chemistry made this a very swoon-worthy read!
Okay, so besides the romance, I thought the characters were individually awesome too! Let the Brit gushing commence!! She was such an inspiration! I love a story with a strong woman as a main character. I thought Brit being the first woman to play in the NHL was such a cool story! The way she handled the guys on and off the ice was just perfection. I had had this picture of her in my mind as this ninja-like badass!!
I think stories, and characters like this are so important, and quite frankly I wish that there was more of them! Faber really handled this aspect of the story amazingly as well. From the first awkward locker room incident, to the way the media and lots of people viewed Brit, to the way the team and the coach reacted, and ultimately embraced having a woman be a part of the team. Everything felt so real. I had no problem envisioning these situations being things that a woman would have to deal with under these circumstances. Brit carried herself very well, but also was a perfect person either. She made mistakes, and better yet, she OWNED them when the time came. I was completely in awe of Brit and couldn't help but to root for her.
Stefan was a great leading man, as well. At the very beginning I honestly thought that he was going to end up being the typical Alpha male, play-boy, but luckily that's not the way things were. I was so incredibly happy that Stefan ended up being such a good guy. The relationship he had with his mother was enough to warm any heart, and the way he was with his team was truly inspiring. Honestly even the side characters were well fleshed out and interesting, which makes total sense considering there will be more books in this series about them. I am dying to see who the stars of the next book will be. And hopefully see some sweet glimpses of where Stefan and Brit are as well.
All in all Blocked was an awesome story! I am now a Gold Hockey fan through and through (right after my first love, the Red Wings, of course) and I can't wait to back in the locker room with these hunks!
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this book! It had hockey, romance, and the characters were some of my favorites! They say "write what you know" and Faber knows hockey, and apparently romance as well! Her passion for the sport really came through every page. I never played hockey, but I LOVE to watch it! I mean I am from Detroit, aka HOCKEYTOWN!
Hockey is fast paced and the players are so in tune with one another, most days anyway lol, it's very exciting to watch! The brisk chill from the ice, and passionate fans only amp up the whole experience too. I couldn't even imagine how much more so it must be for the players! And I'd be lying if I said there wasn't a few players that I like to pay extra close attention to *cough Henrik Zetterberg cough* So needless to say a hockey romance sounded A-Okay with me!
The best part is it was so well done. A nice slow burn. I really appreciated that Brit and Stefan developed a friendship, and maybe more importantly, a close bond as teammates before things got romantic. That paired with their off the chart chemistry made this a very swoon-worthy read!
Okay, so besides the romance, I thought the characters were individually awesome too! Let the Brit gushing commence!! She was such an inspiration! I love a story with a strong woman as a main character. I thought Brit being the first woman to play in the NHL was such a cool story! The way she handled the guys on and off the ice was just perfection. I had had this picture of her in my mind as this ninja-like badass!!
I think stories, and characters like this are so important, and quite frankly I wish that there was more of them! Faber really handled this aspect of the story amazingly as well. From the first awkward locker room incident, to the way the media and lots of people viewed Brit, to the way the team and the coach reacted, and ultimately embraced having a woman be a part of the team. Everything felt so real. I had no problem envisioning these situations being things that a woman would have to deal with under these circumstances. Brit carried herself very well, but also was a perfect person either. She made mistakes, and better yet, she OWNED them when the time came. I was completely in awe of Brit and couldn't help but to root for her.
Stefan was a great leading man, as well. At the very beginning I honestly thought that he was going to end up being the typical Alpha male, play-boy, but luckily that's not the way things were. I was so incredibly happy that Stefan ended up being such a good guy. The relationship he had with his mother was enough to warm any heart, and the way he was with his team was truly inspiring. Honestly even the side characters were well fleshed out and interesting, which makes total sense considering there will be more books in this series about them. I am dying to see who the stars of the next book will be. And hopefully see some sweet glimpses of where Stefan and Brit are as well.
All in all Blocked was an awesome story! I am now a Gold Hockey fan through and through (right after my first love, the Red Wings, of course) and I can't wait to back in the locker room with these hunks!
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2016
I absolutely love a good hockey romance and Blocked was very thing I love in a good book and more.
What's great about this book is its about a Female hockey player - who's been called up to the big leagues.
Brit has always dreamed of playing for the NHL - but it's not without its sacrifices and it's nightmares. It's hard to fit into the boys club, especially when you're looking over your shoulder all the time. But now that she has her chance to shine, she's going to try with all her might to fit in and be accepted.
Stefan is the team captain and the golden boy of the club. He's known in the public eye as being a man whore - when really he's the furthest thing from it. Always taking care of his mom and trying to keep the club on track takes up a majority of his time. He doesn't have time for dating. But when Brit joins the club they have an instant connection - something he's never felt with anyone else.
As the two players start to connect - the team's board takes notice and blackmails Brit into seducing the captain to drum up some publicity for the fledgling team. The only thing is Brit really likes Stefan... a lot. But she has others to protect besides herself.
As things escalate between the two - so does the drama surrounding their personal lives too.
This was a fun, flirty, sexy read. The chemistry between Stefan and Brit was through the roof. I had a hard time stepping away from the book and took it everywhere with me.
Elise's writing is fresh and fun. I loved every minute of this book!
What's great about this book is its about a Female hockey player - who's been called up to the big leagues.
Brit has always dreamed of playing for the NHL - but it's not without its sacrifices and it's nightmares. It's hard to fit into the boys club, especially when you're looking over your shoulder all the time. But now that she has her chance to shine, she's going to try with all her might to fit in and be accepted.
Stefan is the team captain and the golden boy of the club. He's known in the public eye as being a man whore - when really he's the furthest thing from it. Always taking care of his mom and trying to keep the club on track takes up a majority of his time. He doesn't have time for dating. But when Brit joins the club they have an instant connection - something he's never felt with anyone else.
As the two players start to connect - the team's board takes notice and blackmails Brit into seducing the captain to drum up some publicity for the fledgling team. The only thing is Brit really likes Stefan... a lot. But she has others to protect besides herself.
As things escalate between the two - so does the drama surrounding their personal lives too.
This was a fun, flirty, sexy read. The chemistry between Stefan and Brit was through the roof. I had a hard time stepping away from the book and took it everywhere with me.
Elise's writing is fresh and fun. I loved every minute of this book!
Want to read
December 27, 2019★★★ FREE HOCKEY ROMANCE! ★★★
Blocked by Elise Faber is FREE! (12/27/19)
Amazon → https://amzn.to/2Q11ScY
Universal → mybook.to/BlockedEliseFaber
Apple → https://apple.co/2PVGzrX
Nook → http://bit.ly/2JhI9Tw
Kobo → http://bit.ly/2GXnXDD
Google → http://bit.ly/2YcWKnz
Blocked by Elise Faber is FREE! (12/27/19)
Amazon → https://amzn.to/2Q11ScY
Universal → mybook.to/BlockedEliseFaber
Apple → https://apple.co/2PVGzrX
Nook → http://bit.ly/2JhI9Tw
Kobo → http://bit.ly/2GXnXDD
Google → http://bit.ly/2YcWKnz
February 25, 2016
I love sports romance books & Blocked was a great addition to that genre! I absolutely adored the premise, a female goalie getting a shot at her dream of playing in the NHL. I am a huge hockey (& sports) fan, so I loved the seamless sports aspects that were ingeniously weaved into the romance & suspense aspects of the story.
I really adored the characters in this story; we are introduced to Brit Plantain, a female goalie who has been working her way through the ranks of minor league teams for a few years until she finally gets her big break and is recruited as a backup goalie for a new expansion NHL team the San Francisco Gold. The Gold have had some trouble in the last couple of years as a new team, and scandal has plagued its success, or lack there of. The team's new captain for this season, Stefan Barie, has decided that he will work hard to bring his team together and try his best to make the new team a viable success. Of course, bringing a female into the clubhouse is going to cause some media hype, that the team could use to help them in the tough SF market, as well as with the players. Stefan is eager to help Brit integrate, but she seems to have it under control, as she's had a few years of experience on how to break the ice with a room full of men.
The secondary characters are absolutely perfect and they really round out this story, even the evil mischievous ones. Whom some of them were responsible for throwing the wrench that spurred some of the crazy into the mix. Especially when management forced Brit and Stefan together for publicity, but of course their attraction for each other happens to be so damn real that neither of them can control themselves. Which then causes some real locker room drama! The story and the romance is perfect, steamy and hot! But as the deceit plays out, it blows up in all their faces as something like this usually does.
The story continues to grow and unfold and I just love the twists that are thrown at the readers. This story has it all, wit, romance, deception and sports camaraderie. I really wanted more of this rag tag group of hockey players and I can't wait for book 2!
I really adored the characters in this story; we are introduced to Brit Plantain, a female goalie who has been working her way through the ranks of minor league teams for a few years until she finally gets her big break and is recruited as a backup goalie for a new expansion NHL team the San Francisco Gold. The Gold have had some trouble in the last couple of years as a new team, and scandal has plagued its success, or lack there of. The team's new captain for this season, Stefan Barie, has decided that he will work hard to bring his team together and try his best to make the new team a viable success. Of course, bringing a female into the clubhouse is going to cause some media hype, that the team could use to help them in the tough SF market, as well as with the players. Stefan is eager to help Brit integrate, but she seems to have it under control, as she's had a few years of experience on how to break the ice with a room full of men.
The secondary characters are absolutely perfect and they really round out this story, even the evil mischievous ones. Whom some of them were responsible for throwing the wrench that spurred some of the crazy into the mix. Especially when management forced Brit and Stefan together for publicity, but of course their attraction for each other happens to be so damn real that neither of them can control themselves. Which then causes some real locker room drama! The story and the romance is perfect, steamy and hot! But as the deceit plays out, it blows up in all their faces as something like this usually does.
The story continues to grow and unfold and I just love the twists that are thrown at the readers. This story has it all, wit, romance, deception and sports camaraderie. I really wanted more of this rag tag group of hockey players and I can't wait for book 2!
April 5, 2021
3,5 stars. I love sport romances, especially when hockey is involved. Then it can’t go wrong with this book, you might think. Besides that the book was very predictable and therefore low in angst.
From the moment Brit is blackmailed by management and she has to seduce Stefan without telling him what’s going on, you know the bomb will drop eventually. There were plenty of moments she could’ve confided in him, but she didn’t. The longer she waited you just know the mess will get worse. And it did.
I loved Stefan in this book, he was a great hero and even book boyfriend worthy. But the way he reacted when the truth was revealed, was not what I expected. He basically ignored her for 6 weeks, yelled at her when his mom wanted to meddle between them and said some very hurtful things to her that same night. It could’ve been worse if his mom didn’t make him stop making these hurtful comments. He didn’t even need to grovel for it. I think Brit could’ve made him work a bit harder for an apology. And the great gesture at the end? I think that was more Mike than Stefan. Because he couldn’t have pulled that of if he didn’t have Mike at his side.
Brit was a feisty woman with a tormented past due to a sexual harassment in a previous hockey team. I think she was a strong heroine and the way she struggled with betraying Stefan and the reasons why she needed to do it were portrayed well. She was hesitant about Stefan’s reputation as a playboy. He wasn’t the guy who was written about in the tabloids though. He played the field is his younger years, but not for the last couple of seasons. He didn’t sleep with every woman who he went out with, although the tabloids make believe he does. The only woman in his life was his mother, until Brit. The bond between Stefan and his mother is so sweet. He’s such a caring hero and Brit is opening up to him the moment she sees this soft and warm side of him. They made a cute couple with lots of chemistry.
I’m not sure if I will like Mike’s book next, because he was an a$$ for the majority of this book. But I’m very curious to Blane’s story, because he needs his deserved HEA.
From the moment Brit is blackmailed by management and she has to seduce Stefan without telling him what’s going on, you know the bomb will drop eventually. There were plenty of moments she could’ve confided in him, but she didn’t. The longer she waited you just know the mess will get worse. And it did.
I loved Stefan in this book, he was a great hero and even book boyfriend worthy. But the way he reacted when the truth was revealed, was not what I expected. He basically ignored her for 6 weeks, yelled at her when his mom wanted to meddle between them and said some very hurtful things to her that same night. It could’ve been worse if his mom didn’t make him stop making these hurtful comments. He didn’t even need to grovel for it. I think Brit could’ve made him work a bit harder for an apology. And the great gesture at the end? I think that was more Mike than Stefan. Because he couldn’t have pulled that of if he didn’t have Mike at his side.
Brit was a feisty woman with a tormented past due to a sexual harassment in a previous hockey team. I think she was a strong heroine and the way she struggled with betraying Stefan and the reasons why she needed to do it were portrayed well. She was hesitant about Stefan’s reputation as a playboy. He wasn’t the guy who was written about in the tabloids though. He played the field is his younger years, but not for the last couple of seasons. He didn’t sleep with every woman who he went out with, although the tabloids make believe he does. The only woman in his life was his mother, until Brit. The bond between Stefan and his mother is so sweet. He’s such a caring hero and Brit is opening up to him the moment she sees this soft and warm side of him. They made a cute couple with lots of chemistry.
I’m not sure if I will like Mike’s book next, because he was an a$$ for the majority of this book. But I’m very curious to Blane’s story, because he needs his deserved HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2016
Ladies and Gents….I present to you a Hockey Romance done right!
I truly enjoyed Blocked. It was romantic but not overly in your face. It was sweet but not so much as to turn you off. There was action on and off the ice. Elise Faber did a fantastic job of making Blocked the perfect meld.
And again…HOCKEY
Mmmmm…Zetterberg
There’s nothing better than sexy hockey players in the morning to get your day started!
Want another?
Yeah, you do…
My absolute favorite thing about Blocked is that Stefan wasn’t some asshat alpha male with mommy issues, and that Brit wasn’t some god awful damsel in distress that let every male in the vicinity walk all over her, or fall on her back in an attempt to win Stefan over.
Brit was everything that the first female NHL star needed to be. Her determination was contagious. Brit had be rooting for her the whole book. She carved out a nice little spot for herself on the team and did everything in her power to stay there.
Stefan was a breath of fresh air. I’ve lost count on how many NA, YA, Romance (the list goes on) where the male lead is a total douchecanoe badass and you know as soon as you start, where the story is going. As soon as I read Stefan I immediately knew that Blocked was going to be like no other. I was right. Stefan is the captain of the team, and there is a reason. He’s got the patience of a saint and an attitude to match.
There was betrayal, and backstabbing but also hockey, love, hot guys, compassion, hot hockey guys.
(All these hockey players have me all distracted!)
I fell in love with both of them and I cannot wait to see where Elise takes the Gold from here.
And because this is a hockey book, and hockey is my all time favorite thing to watch…
Gawd, Hockey players are sexy!!
Thank you Elise Faber…I’m off to stalk my future husband!!
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review
I truly enjoyed Blocked. It was romantic but not overly in your face. It was sweet but not so much as to turn you off. There was action on and off the ice. Elise Faber did a fantastic job of making Blocked the perfect meld.
And again…HOCKEY
Mmmmm…Zetterberg
There’s nothing better than sexy hockey players in the morning to get your day started!
Want another?
Yeah, you do…
My absolute favorite thing about Blocked is that Stefan wasn’t some asshat alpha male with mommy issues, and that Brit wasn’t some god awful damsel in distress that let every male in the vicinity walk all over her, or fall on her back in an attempt to win Stefan over.
Brit was everything that the first female NHL star needed to be. Her determination was contagious. Brit had be rooting for her the whole book. She carved out a nice little spot for herself on the team and did everything in her power to stay there.
Stefan was a breath of fresh air. I’ve lost count on how many NA, YA, Romance (the list goes on) where the male lead is a total douchecanoe badass and you know as soon as you start, where the story is going. As soon as I read Stefan I immediately knew that Blocked was going to be like no other. I was right. Stefan is the captain of the team, and there is a reason. He’s got the patience of a saint and an attitude to match.
There was betrayal, and backstabbing but also hockey, love, hot guys, compassion, hot hockey guys.
(All these hockey players have me all distracted!)
I fell in love with both of them and I cannot wait to see where Elise takes the Gold from here.
And because this is a hockey book, and hockey is my all time favorite thing to watch…
Gawd, Hockey players are sexy!!
Thank you Elise Faber…I’m off to stalk my future husband!!
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review
February 23, 2016
Who doesn't love a good hockey romance? I know that I sure do! And adding in a female NHL hockey goalie? Well that made this amazing story all the much better for me! Blocked by Elise Faber is the first book in the Gold Hockey Series and I cannot wait for more! The story of Stefan and Brit is filled with lust, wanting, and secrets that threaten relationships. This book was a 3.5 star read for me and I highly recommend this series to others.
Stefan is the captain of the Gold and one of the most welcoming members to new comer back-up goalie Brit. Being the only girl on the team, a female in a primarily male sport, Brit has to work twice as hard and twice as long while also having a thick skin in order to be considered as good as one of the guys. Being called up from the AHL as the Gold's new back up goalie, Brit knows this is her chance to make it in the sport that she loves, that is in her veins. If she can only get past her fears and block the puck! What Brit doesn't anticipate is kind hearted all around good guy Stefan, who is anything but the womanizer he is portrayed as. When the team higher ups approach Brit with an offer she tries to refuse, it is the strings attached that have her reluctantly agreeing despite the fact that every cell of her being screams that it is a bad idea. What happens next, well you will have to read to find out if Brit and Stefan give in to their smoldering attraction to each other and whether or not she remains on the team or becomes the starting goalie. I can promise you won't be disappointed!
Stefan is the captain of the Gold and one of the most welcoming members to new comer back-up goalie Brit. Being the only girl on the team, a female in a primarily male sport, Brit has to work twice as hard and twice as long while also having a thick skin in order to be considered as good as one of the guys. Being called up from the AHL as the Gold's new back up goalie, Brit knows this is her chance to make it in the sport that she loves, that is in her veins. If she can only get past her fears and block the puck! What Brit doesn't anticipate is kind hearted all around good guy Stefan, who is anything but the womanizer he is portrayed as. When the team higher ups approach Brit with an offer she tries to refuse, it is the strings attached that have her reluctantly agreeing despite the fact that every cell of her being screams that it is a bad idea. What happens next, well you will have to read to find out if Brit and Stefan give in to their smoldering attraction to each other and whether or not she remains on the team or becomes the starting goalie. I can promise you won't be disappointed!
June 14, 2017
Plot: 3/5
Characterisation: 4/5
Prose: 3/5
How much I enjoyed it: 4/5
Characterisation: 4/5
Prose: 3/5
How much I enjoyed it: 4/5
February 26, 2023
It’s a nice book to read, just enough drama, characters are adequate and relatable. Overall book is really well written. I liked the sports team atmosphere and slow burn between main characters. Antagonists fell a bit flat in the end, especially comparing to the beginning, but it’s a romance book. So whatever :)
It could be longer though. I didn’t have enough of it :)
It could be longer though. I didn’t have enough of it :)
February 22, 2016
I have one of my #bookbesties to thank for introducing me to this author. I freely admit I know next to nothing about ice hockey but this book was flamazing!! I was completely engrossed in this story and characters from start to finish.
Brit Plantain has finally made it! All her hard work and perseverance over the years has earned her a history-breaking goalie position in an NHL team, the San Francisco Gold. Brit puts all of her focus and drive into making a starting position; she doesn’t need any distractions. Distractions, for instance, in the form of one delectable, Stefan Barie, Team Captain.
“Funny, charming, athletic – a trifecta of temptation…..”
Stefan has been a bit of a boy in the past, but his focus this season should be on rallying his team and repairing their reputation. Plus, the stresses he’s dealing with at home. Not on the feisty blonde goalie who has captured his attention.
Following an ultimatum from management in their quest to try and bring the team some good press; Brit finds herself in a relationship of sorts with Stefan. What happens when the lines between fantasy and reality become blurred? Can Brit deny her ever growing feelings and get the man and dream job?
I was metaphorically on the edge of my seat reading this book wondering how it would all pan out. Quite a few choice words were directed at my kindle whilst reading it; FYI, don’t read in public #justsaying (peeps may think you’re cray-cray or maybe that’s just me!).
This story has it all; MCs battling inner demons, requisite bad guys/girls (don’t even get me started on Jessica – grr!!), amazing secondary characters, thrilling sports sequences and off the charts hot smexy scenes with one of the best book boyfriends I have come across in a while. Don’t you just love when the playboys fall and fall hard?!
I fell in love with this author’s writing and you will too!!
Note: Copy kindly received from author in exchange for an honest review.
Brit Plantain has finally made it! All her hard work and perseverance over the years has earned her a history-breaking goalie position in an NHL team, the San Francisco Gold. Brit puts all of her focus and drive into making a starting position; she doesn’t need any distractions. Distractions, for instance, in the form of one delectable, Stefan Barie, Team Captain.
“Funny, charming, athletic – a trifecta of temptation…..”
Stefan has been a bit of a boy in the past, but his focus this season should be on rallying his team and repairing their reputation. Plus, the stresses he’s dealing with at home. Not on the feisty blonde goalie who has captured his attention.
Following an ultimatum from management in their quest to try and bring the team some good press; Brit finds herself in a relationship of sorts with Stefan. What happens when the lines between fantasy and reality become blurred? Can Brit deny her ever growing feelings and get the man and dream job?
I was metaphorically on the edge of my seat reading this book wondering how it would all pan out. Quite a few choice words were directed at my kindle whilst reading it; FYI, don’t read in public #justsaying (peeps may think you’re cray-cray or maybe that’s just me!).
This story has it all; MCs battling inner demons, requisite bad guys/girls (don’t even get me started on Jessica – grr!!), amazing secondary characters, thrilling sports sequences and off the charts hot smexy scenes with one of the best book boyfriends I have come across in a while. Don’t you just love when the playboys fall and fall hard?!
I fell in love with this author’s writing and you will too!!
Note: Copy kindly received from author in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2016
B- eautiful
L-augh out loud
O-utrageous
C-ute , Cooky,
Courageous
K-ick butt action
E-xciting
D-aring
Elise Faber SCORED INFINITE GOALS with this amazing book. Wow I loved it. It had me laughing quite a bit, mad a few times, content, and on edge a bit. What a wonderful story and such fun characters, especially Brit. I found myself happy dancing and clapping at many parts in this book.
Brit is a courageous, spunky, feisty hockey player in a men's hockey league. She is a tough one who can hold her own and is so entertaining while doing it. Right away she lets her teammates know that she is ALL girl yet tough as any boy out there on the ice. I loved this so much. She is so much fun and full of surprises.
This is the sixth book I have read and Loved by Elise Faber. Her passion for hockey and inner strength stands out in her words and is very inspiring. Her writing is smooth, fast paced, and always fun. I love how relatable her characters are this makes them addictive to read about.
I received an arc of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
L-augh out loud
O-utrageous
C-ute , Cooky,
Courageous
K-ick butt action
E-xciting
D-aring
Elise Faber SCORED INFINITE GOALS with this amazing book. Wow I loved it. It had me laughing quite a bit, mad a few times, content, and on edge a bit. What a wonderful story and such fun characters, especially Brit. I found myself happy dancing and clapping at many parts in this book.
Brit is a courageous, spunky, feisty hockey player in a men's hockey league. She is a tough one who can hold her own and is so entertaining while doing it. Right away she lets her teammates know that she is ALL girl yet tough as any boy out there on the ice. I loved this so much. She is so much fun and full of surprises.
This is the sixth book I have read and Loved by Elise Faber. Her passion for hockey and inner strength stands out in her words and is very inspiring. Her writing is smooth, fast paced, and always fun. I love how relatable her characters are this makes them addictive to read about.
I received an arc of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2016
Elise Faber has once again used her magical words and her downright fun imagination to pull us into her world of amazing characters.
In Blocked we are introduced to Brit and Stefan. Brit is a female hockey player who has gotten one step closer to achieving her dream of being in the NHL. Stefan is the captain of the Gold and is a lot more than just a handsome face.
Their worlds collide with scandal, attraction, tears, and lies along the way. Teammates they are but their bodies and minds want a hell of a lot more!
Riveting, seductive, humorous, and just plain good old sports fun!!
Blocked is a sports romance with a twist. If you are a lover of Elise Faber’s work, then you will definitely get a puck out of this one! No pun intended!!!
In Blocked we are introduced to Brit and Stefan. Brit is a female hockey player who has gotten one step closer to achieving her dream of being in the NHL. Stefan is the captain of the Gold and is a lot more than just a handsome face.
Their worlds collide with scandal, attraction, tears, and lies along the way. Teammates they are but their bodies and minds want a hell of a lot more!
Riveting, seductive, humorous, and just plain good old sports fun!!
Blocked is a sports romance with a twist. If you are a lover of Elise Faber’s work, then you will definitely get a puck out of this one! No pun intended!!!
March 1, 2016
I Got Pucked. And I liked it.
I have only read a fee hockey books, but I was excited to start this one.
One of my favorite aspects of this book is that they aren't college age. They are a little older. It is different from my norm and I enjoyed it.
Brit's intensity is worthy of praise. It isn't easy being a woman "in a man's world" and she honestly just takes it by storm.
Stefan. Oh the kind but guarded type. My favorite. He has an amazing heart. He is very dedicated to his team. He may just be the perfect guy to crack open Brit.
This book's main conflict had me going, "oh no. Not again! However, the way the characters wielded through it was refreshing.
I CANNOT wait until the next book!
I have only read a fee hockey books, but I was excited to start this one.
One of my favorite aspects of this book is that they aren't college age. They are a little older. It is different from my norm and I enjoyed it.
Brit's intensity is worthy of praise. It isn't easy being a woman "in a man's world" and she honestly just takes it by storm.
Stefan. Oh the kind but guarded type. My favorite. He has an amazing heart. He is very dedicated to his team. He may just be the perfect guy to crack open Brit.
This book's main conflict had me going, "oh no. Not again! However, the way the characters wielded through it was refreshing.
I CANNOT wait until the next book!
February 9, 2016
Oh puck it all...This is my first sporty book I have ever read and what a way to start. Bravo Elise Faber for a riveting story that had me laughing out loud and crying for Stefan and his mother as well as Brit and her past experiences. There are even a few characters I wanted to strangle. This story was very entertaining and kept me intrigued. I had no knowledge about hockey, and I have come away with a small understanding of the game and the grueling work players must go through to be prepared. This was a great story of love, action, devotion, pain, and unintended betrayal. Do not pass this up great read!!
February 6, 2016
OH MY GOODNESS!! Super book hangover from reading Blocked. I couldn't put it down. I ended up passing out from exhaustion before I finished reading it and finished it as soon as I woke up. I loved this so much! I think hockey romance are my new favorite!
October 16, 2019
Audiobook Review:
Blocked (Gold Hockey, Book 1) is a sports romance with a leading-edge unexampled mastery. I revel in how smoothly continuous of sports aspects that were creatively intertwined into the romance suspense aspects of the story. Sporty aspects involved playing on the ice hockey, locker room antics, and media blitz that were crossed with betrayal, suspense and romance. Supporting character's whether you loved them or hated them they are a pyramid that brought out the sports camaraderie. One of the best aspects is the deep profound love of the game that is shown and a strong leading female with a equally strong male equal. This ended with epilogue that had throw for a loop. Looking forward to listening to the next audio in this sports romance series.
Narators Lacy Laurel, Gregory Salinas are finely tuned narrators. Their inflection flowed through smoothly throughout at the right pace. Lacy articulates her words in a way that exhuberates her abilities. Gregory put all his emotions into the part. Together, the story and characters were brought into existence.
🎧 Audiobook Obsession 🎧
Blocked (Gold Hockey, Book 1) is a sports romance with a leading-edge unexampled mastery. I revel in how smoothly continuous of sports aspects that were creatively intertwined into the romance suspense aspects of the story. Sporty aspects involved playing on the ice hockey, locker room antics, and media blitz that were crossed with betrayal, suspense and romance. Supporting character's whether you loved them or hated them they are a pyramid that brought out the sports camaraderie. One of the best aspects is the deep profound love of the game that is shown and a strong leading female with a equally strong male equal. This ended with epilogue that had throw for a loop. Looking forward to listening to the next audio in this sports romance series.
Narators Lacy Laurel, Gregory Salinas are finely tuned narrators. Their inflection flowed through smoothly throughout at the right pace. Lacy articulates her words in a way that exhuberates her abilities. Gregory put all his emotions into the part. Together, the story and characters were brought into existence.
🎧 Audiobook Obsession 🎧
May 23, 2021
Disclaimer: I actually started reading this because the first three books are free on the Amazon Kindle Store.
I was in the mood for a good rivals to lovers, sadly this was not it, lol. This is more of a instant attraction, love at first sight type of trope. I also really wanted a sport romance that could rival my love for Kulti and this one originally caught my eye, due to the main plot.
We meet Brit, a female hockey player who has the opportunity to play for a NHL-male-team. Basically, Brit has had to overcome a ton of obstacles in order to get to where she is and she will do next to anything to ensure her spot is a guaranteed on the San Francisco's Gold hockey team.
Enter Stephan, the oh so charming and surprisingly sweet Captain of the Gold team. After a series of photos leak along with rumours, management wants to capitalize on the opportunity presented and want the two athletes to pretend to date in order to garner positive press.
The only problem is that Stephan has no idea that Brit has been blackmailed into the arrangement. All the while, the pair start to cultivate friendship and genuine feelings for each other.
Despite having an interesting main plot, a dual POV and ultimately reading the entirety of this in one sitting, it was an average sport romance with quite a few triggers that should have been warned about. There was quite a decent amount of drama and not enough steamy moments for my taste.
I was in the mood for a good rivals to lovers, sadly this was not it, lol. This is more of a instant attraction, love at first sight type of trope. I also really wanted a sport romance that could rival my love for Kulti and this one originally caught my eye, due to the main plot.
We meet Brit, a female hockey player who has the opportunity to play for a NHL-male-team. Basically, Brit has had to overcome a ton of obstacles in order to get to where she is and she will do next to anything to ensure her spot is a guaranteed on the San Francisco's Gold hockey team.
Enter Stephan, the oh so charming and surprisingly sweet Captain of the Gold team. After a series of photos leak along with rumours, management wants to capitalize on the opportunity presented and want the two athletes to pretend to date in order to garner positive press.
The only problem is that Stephan has no idea that Brit has been blackmailed into the arrangement. All the while, the pair start to cultivate friendship and genuine feelings for each other.
Despite having an interesting main plot, a dual POV and ultimately reading the entirety of this in one sitting, it was an average sport romance with quite a few triggers that should have been warned about. There was quite a decent amount of drama and not enough steamy moments for my taste.
March 20, 2020
3.5 Stars
Ms Faber is an author I've read before, but this was the first of her hockey books that I've read and now I am very curious about the Gold hockey players.
Brit is a female goalie who has worked her way to being a back up NHL goalie, the first woman to do so. The deck is stacked against her when she arrives and it seems to get worse at first. I liked Brit, she's worked hard to get to where she is, but she maintains her femininity while doing so.
Stefan is the team captain who has a few struggles of his own. I liked him from the beginning too; He appeared to be a genuinely good guy and strong teammate. The chemistry between these two was intense from the beginning, but one of my favorite parts about Stefan was that he seem to appreciate where Brit was coming from and respected that.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. There were a couple of places that seemed over the top, but they really fall under the bucket of artistic license. Ms Faber did an excellent job of blending this story along with the cast building that will allow the series to grow.
Ms Faber is an author I've read before, but this was the first of her hockey books that I've read and now I am very curious about the Gold hockey players.
Brit is a female goalie who has worked her way to being a back up NHL goalie, the first woman to do so. The deck is stacked against her when she arrives and it seems to get worse at first. I liked Brit, she's worked hard to get to where she is, but she maintains her femininity while doing so.
Stefan is the team captain who has a few struggles of his own. I liked him from the beginning too; He appeared to be a genuinely good guy and strong teammate. The chemistry between these two was intense from the beginning, but one of my favorite parts about Stefan was that he seem to appreciate where Brit was coming from and respected that.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. There were a couple of places that seemed over the top, but they really fall under the bucket of artistic license. Ms Faber did an excellent job of blending this story along with the cast building that will allow the series to grow.
March 13, 2023
I want to start this out with trigger warnings... lots of them. And if you have triggers I would take caution bc some of these instances came out of the blue.
Aside form that I have read a good ha dful of hockey romances and love them. I particularly like this one because of the actual hockey references. The fact the author plays makes the book so much better and makes me want to read about the rest of the team in the next stand-alone books!
I'm not sure where my copy came from, but there were some sentences or words that seemed to be forgotten during editing. A few places just didn't make sense (maybe I'm just tired though. It IS 230am after all). And there were a couple spots where the writing seemed a bit slow.
But this is definitely one of my more enjoyed hockey romances- and one I could recommend that's not as smutty.
Aside form that I have read a good ha dful of hockey romances and love them. I particularly like this one because of the actual hockey references. The fact the author plays makes the book so much better and makes me want to read about the rest of the team in the next stand-alone books!
I'm not sure where my copy came from, but there were some sentences or words that seemed to be forgotten during editing. A few places just didn't make sense (maybe I'm just tired though. It IS 230am after all). And there were a couple spots where the writing seemed a bit slow.
But this is definitely one of my more enjoyed hockey romances- and one I could recommend that's not as smutty.
January 8, 2018
This book was a pleasant surprise. Despite not having anything to do with sports IRL I read quite a bit of hockey and football romance - go figure.
This was a great bland of serious issues, romance and suspense. I was so into it that I read the short story right after!
This was a great bland of serious issues, romance and suspense. I was so into it that I read the short story right after!
August 1, 2022
I thought that this book was good
October 22, 2019
Blocked by Elise Faber is a sports romance that I listened to on audio narrated by Lacy Laurel and Gregory Salinas.
This is the first book of Elise’s that I have read and it definitely won’t be my last. You can’t help but fall in love with Brit and Stefan. I cannot wait to read more books from this series.
Lacy and Gregory did an amazing job on the narration. They are a great duo. I cannot wait to find more projects that they have worked on.
AudiobookObsessionReviewer
This is the first book of Elise’s that I have read and it definitely won’t be my last. You can’t help but fall in love with Brit and Stefan. I cannot wait to read more books from this series.
Lacy and Gregory did an amazing job on the narration. They are a great duo. I cannot wait to find more projects that they have worked on.
AudiobookObsessionReviewer
May 24, 2020
We meet Brit as she rolls up to the San Francisco Gold's arena, where she's going to be the backup goalie for the team. Team captain Stephan walks up behind her on his way in and the physical attractiveness is obvious between them.
Brit is the first female goalie in the NHL and is making her dreams come true, but she's constantly in battle mode--there are those that don't want to see women on the ice--both teammates and management--and when a photo of Brit and Stephan surfaces where it appears they're in a compromising position, management brings Brit in and basically tells her in order for her to keep her spot on the team, she needs to seduce Stephan into a relationship and get positive press for the team to fill the seats. The coach tells her not to go along with the idea, but management says they'll fire him and now Brit feels like she has to go along to keep the coach's job and to make her dream come true.
The feelings she has for Stephan are real, and his for her, and they become closer over the weeks. He knows she has secretes and she tries several times to tell them about what management is forcing her to do.
She opens up to him about what happened 3 years ago on her last team, about the "hazing" attack and that's why she's so weird about the locker room showers...and just when she's ready to tell them about the biggest secrete Stephan's mom calls with a medical emergency and he runs home to help.
It's clear that they each bring out the best in each other, that they're finding that maybe because of each other they're able to find and let love in....
But then Stephan overhears a hallway conversation that clearly has Brit in knots/fear, and then he hears management--Susan--say his name, and then the cat's out of the bag--he's told that Brit was acting, seducing him for the good press to get more people into the arena and he shuts down.
Like ok bye shut down. Walls back up. No worries. A misunderstanding.
The next weeks they're both miserable.
Stephan's Mom calls Brit with a fake emergency and talks to her asking her to not give up on Stephan, when he walks in and is like WTH is going on...he still won't talk/listen to Brit. They continue on this way, to the point that Stephan has moved his locker across the room just to get away from her.
Then one day before practice he arrives at the rink to hear voices on the ice, and realize that Brit and the goalie coach are practicing, with the help of Mike--the thorn in the team's side and Stephan's, the same Mike that on the first day pulled a dick move and shot the puck at Brit's back and nearly sidelined her...and Stephan is totally baffled at what he sees--Mike doing extra and Brit smiling--like the two do not compute.
They finish practice and Mike comes up to Stephan to apologize for his earlier behavior this season, and in passing mentions that he can get ahold of the pictures that management is holding over Brit--the ones of the "hazing" attack, and Stephan hatches a plan.
And its a timely plan, because Susan went to Brit to tell her that she was going to bring all the men down and it was time that women were in charge and Brit is like no way I'm not getting involved--do what you gotta do--release the pictures or don't--but Stephan is too good a man to "ruin" with a the scandal you're proposing.
So with the help of Brit's FBI brother Dan, Stephan & Mike set out to get the pictures, and oh by the way apparently management has been involved in some illegal activities and off to jail they go...
Stephan has the pictures and is bringing them to Brit and he realizes that she's in the locker room showers. Alone. And realizes what a huge thing this is for her, so he goes in and tells her he's so proud of her for the progress she's made. Well they have googly eyes for one another and cannot keep their hands off one another and finally make up.
The team goes on to round 3 of the playoffs and Brit's ranked #2 in the league and all seems to be good on the team for the following season.
Seems like they live happily ever after...
Brit is the first female goalie in the NHL and is making her dreams come true, but she's constantly in battle mode--there are those that don't want to see women on the ice--both teammates and management--and when a photo of Brit and Stephan surfaces where it appears they're in a compromising position, management brings Brit in and basically tells her in order for her to keep her spot on the team, she needs to seduce Stephan into a relationship and get positive press for the team to fill the seats. The coach tells her not to go along with the idea, but management says they'll fire him and now Brit feels like she has to go along to keep the coach's job and to make her dream come true.
The feelings she has for Stephan are real, and his for her, and they become closer over the weeks. He knows she has secretes and she tries several times to tell them about what management is forcing her to do.
She opens up to him about what happened 3 years ago on her last team, about the "hazing" attack and that's why she's so weird about the locker room showers...and just when she's ready to tell them about the biggest secrete Stephan's mom calls with a medical emergency and he runs home to help.
It's clear that they each bring out the best in each other, that they're finding that maybe because of each other they're able to find and let love in....
But then Stephan overhears a hallway conversation that clearly has Brit in knots/fear, and then he hears management--Susan--say his name, and then the cat's out of the bag--he's told that Brit was acting, seducing him for the good press to get more people into the arena and he shuts down.
Like ok bye shut down. Walls back up. No worries. A misunderstanding.
The next weeks they're both miserable.
Stephan's Mom calls Brit with a fake emergency and talks to her asking her to not give up on Stephan, when he walks in and is like WTH is going on...he still won't talk/listen to Brit. They continue on this way, to the point that Stephan has moved his locker across the room just to get away from her.
Then one day before practice he arrives at the rink to hear voices on the ice, and realize that Brit and the goalie coach are practicing, with the help of Mike--the thorn in the team's side and Stephan's, the same Mike that on the first day pulled a dick move and shot the puck at Brit's back and nearly sidelined her...and Stephan is totally baffled at what he sees--Mike doing extra and Brit smiling--like the two do not compute.
They finish practice and Mike comes up to Stephan to apologize for his earlier behavior this season, and in passing mentions that he can get ahold of the pictures that management is holding over Brit--the ones of the "hazing" attack, and Stephan hatches a plan.
And its a timely plan, because Susan went to Brit to tell her that she was going to bring all the men down and it was time that women were in charge and Brit is like no way I'm not getting involved--do what you gotta do--release the pictures or don't--but Stephan is too good a man to "ruin" with a the scandal you're proposing.
So with the help of Brit's FBI brother Dan, Stephan & Mike set out to get the pictures, and oh by the way apparently management has been involved in some illegal activities and off to jail they go...
Stephan has the pictures and is bringing them to Brit and he realizes that she's in the locker room showers. Alone. And realizes what a huge thing this is for her, so he goes in and tells her he's so proud of her for the progress she's made. Well they have googly eyes for one another and cannot keep their hands off one another and finally make up.
The team goes on to round 3 of the playoffs and Brit's ranked #2 in the league and all seems to be good on the team for the following season.
Seems like they live happily ever after...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2017
Blocked by Elise Faber
Book #1: Gold Hockey Series
Source: Purchase
My Rating: 3/5 stars
My Review:
Brit’s life is something of a fairytale. She’s a talented goalie who has bounced around in the minors for most of career, but recently, the San Francisco Gold have decided to take a chance on the rarest of a rare, a female goalie for an NHL team. She’s very good on the ice, is eager to learn and improve, and most importantly, become a real member of the team. Some goals are an uphill battle from the very beginning . . . . .
Brit comes to the Gold with a past, just like everyone else, but as the rare female player in a male-dominated sport, her past is a bit scarier than that of her male teammates. Assault is the best word for it, and that assault at the hands of another team has left Brit both skittish and determined. On the skittish side, Brit never allows herself to be cornered or caught in the showers alone and has learned to forcefully defend herself. On the determined side, she’s hell bent on being accepted for her skills and abilities and willing to put in the monumental amount of work it will take to earn her the respect of her teammates.
Brit is very much aware of her opportunity and how easily it can be taken away from her. As a rookie, Brit has very little bargaining power and management knows that which makes Brit easy pickings for their dirty little scheme to bring some much-needed good press to the Gold. All Brit must do is become a cliché, seduce the hottest and nicest guy on the team, and become the media’s hockey darlings. Everything about this scheme makes Brit’s skin crawl, but isn’t just her career on the line!
Stefan takes his role as team captain seriously and after the disastrous media storm from the previous season, he’s looking to not only keep his team out of the media (in the bad way) and build a solid team who supports one another and plays the kind of hockey he knows they’re capable of playing. The addition of Brit to the team is a boon as she’s a solid goalie and always working to improve her skills. Though she can be prickly, Stefan likes Brit and wants to see her be successful with the Gold. He also wants to experience some serious sexy time with her, but knows it’s against the rules, both personally and professionally. Additionally, though no one knows it, Stefan is dealing with a personal matter which keeps him from becoming involved with anyone on a serious level.
Brit’s deal with the devil brings she and Stefan closer together with the surprising result of each genuinely liking the other. There’s chemistry out the wazoo and as the friendship builds, so does the sexual tension. Trouble is, both Brit and Stefan have some serious secrets they’re harboring and if they don’t come clean, it won’t matter how much they like and want one another, the trust will be broken and the relationship over before it ever really begins.
The Bottom Line: Like so many first in series books, there is a great deal of ground to cover, loads of backstory, and generally more than a few characters to introduce. That is certainly the case with Blocked, and unfortunately, the story and primary characters sort of got bogged down in all the extraneous material. I wanted to like Blocked far more than I did and I think it has everything to do with being a first in a series book. Brit and Stefan just weren’t strong enough, for me, to rise above all the other material (that must be added in this type of book!) and dominate the story. Sure, they were players in the game, but there’s a lot of game going on this read and Brit and Stefan sort of got lost in it. With all that being said, I’ve never found it fair to judge a series by its first book, unless that book was truly awful 😊 The San Francisco Gold are team which means there a whole host of players just waiting to have their story told.
Book #1: Gold Hockey Series
Source: Purchase
My Rating: 3/5 stars
My Review:
Brit’s life is something of a fairytale. She’s a talented goalie who has bounced around in the minors for most of career, but recently, the San Francisco Gold have decided to take a chance on the rarest of a rare, a female goalie for an NHL team. She’s very good on the ice, is eager to learn and improve, and most importantly, become a real member of the team. Some goals are an uphill battle from the very beginning . . . . .
Brit comes to the Gold with a past, just like everyone else, but as the rare female player in a male-dominated sport, her past is a bit scarier than that of her male teammates. Assault is the best word for it, and that assault at the hands of another team has left Brit both skittish and determined. On the skittish side, Brit never allows herself to be cornered or caught in the showers alone and has learned to forcefully defend herself. On the determined side, she’s hell bent on being accepted for her skills and abilities and willing to put in the monumental amount of work it will take to earn her the respect of her teammates.
Brit is very much aware of her opportunity and how easily it can be taken away from her. As a rookie, Brit has very little bargaining power and management knows that which makes Brit easy pickings for their dirty little scheme to bring some much-needed good press to the Gold. All Brit must do is become a cliché, seduce the hottest and nicest guy on the team, and become the media’s hockey darlings. Everything about this scheme makes Brit’s skin crawl, but isn’t just her career on the line!
Stefan takes his role as team captain seriously and after the disastrous media storm from the previous season, he’s looking to not only keep his team out of the media (in the bad way) and build a solid team who supports one another and plays the kind of hockey he knows they’re capable of playing. The addition of Brit to the team is a boon as she’s a solid goalie and always working to improve her skills. Though she can be prickly, Stefan likes Brit and wants to see her be successful with the Gold. He also wants to experience some serious sexy time with her, but knows it’s against the rules, both personally and professionally. Additionally, though no one knows it, Stefan is dealing with a personal matter which keeps him from becoming involved with anyone on a serious level.
Brit’s deal with the devil brings she and Stefan closer together with the surprising result of each genuinely liking the other. There’s chemistry out the wazoo and as the friendship builds, so does the sexual tension. Trouble is, both Brit and Stefan have some serious secrets they’re harboring and if they don’t come clean, it won’t matter how much they like and want one another, the trust will be broken and the relationship over before it ever really begins.
The Bottom Line: Like so many first in series books, there is a great deal of ground to cover, loads of backstory, and generally more than a few characters to introduce. That is certainly the case with Blocked, and unfortunately, the story and primary characters sort of got bogged down in all the extraneous material. I wanted to like Blocked far more than I did and I think it has everything to do with being a first in a series book. Brit and Stefan just weren’t strong enough, for me, to rise above all the other material (that must be added in this type of book!) and dominate the story. Sure, they were players in the game, but there’s a lot of game going on this read and Brit and Stefan sort of got lost in it. With all that being said, I’ve never found it fair to judge a series by its first book, unless that book was truly awful 😊 The San Francisco Gold are team which means there a whole host of players just waiting to have their story told.
February 25, 2016
As someone who plays and loves hockey, I can say that this book made me want to step out on the ice with Brit. You know I'd never get anything past her because she's just that good but it would be epic to be able to be out on the ice with Brit.
And I know I'm writing about her as if she's a real person but that's just a testament to how well Elise presents the characters in her book to the readers. The characters were completely relatable in their awesomely awkward and hilarious banter. The movie references were on point and cleverly placed. You're definitely going to want to be in a place where you don't mind laughing out loud. There's this line at the end of chapter 41, I laughed so hard I cried. I giggling right now just thinking about it. Okay so I may have also just reread it, but trust me when I say it's hilarious.
Because they were so real and relatable it was easy to get caught up and feel everything they were going through. The struggles both Brit and Stefan have, among them being the first female in the NHL and being the captain of the team with the first female in the NHL all the while being attracted to each other provides for some edge-of-your-seat-what's-gonna-happen-next-nail-biting-holy-shit moments. They're both such strong characters and yet they show their vulnerabilities to each other.
There are characters in the book that I'd love to have at my back, like Dan and Blane, and movie nights Amanda sounds amazing. Trust me when you get to that part you'll understand. There are also characters in the book that I'd like to take a slap shot, if I could do one, at repeatedly and ones that I'd go for a quick snap shot to the crotch because they show some redeeming qualities.
Where's the steam you may ask. Trust me when I tell you...Hot. Damn. From half imagined fantasies to....getting the Hattrick, if you know what I mean, the buildup was pretty damn hot. They're attraction to each other from the get go is pretty evident but the respect and trust they work to build provides a strong I-want-this-in-my-life-right-now example. That type of relationship along with all the heat? Lemme just break out the hand fan because like I said Hot. Damn.
I've read other hockey romances and they were pretty awesome but one of the things that sets this book apart for me is that you can tell there is a deep and profound love of the game. There is nothing like stepping out onto to that ice and feeling that adrenaline rush the second you do, and knowing that the team has your back and you have theirs. There's nothing like it. And as a hockey player herself you can tell Elise knows and loves the awesome sport that is hockey.
I know I'm waxing a little poetic about hockey here but really it won't matter whether or not you like hockey. If you like a strong female lead with an equally strong male counterpart and you add in wicked hot chemistry, awesomely witty banter, great movie references, fantastic support characters, a truly devious villain, and hockey (of course I had to mention the hockey) then trust me when I say you'll be hooked from beginning to end.
And I know I'm writing about her as if she's a real person but that's just a testament to how well Elise presents the characters in her book to the readers. The characters were completely relatable in their awesomely awkward and hilarious banter. The movie references were on point and cleverly placed. You're definitely going to want to be in a place where you don't mind laughing out loud. There's this line at the end of chapter 41, I laughed so hard I cried. I giggling right now just thinking about it. Okay so I may have also just reread it, but trust me when I say it's hilarious.
Because they were so real and relatable it was easy to get caught up and feel everything they were going through. The struggles both Brit and Stefan have, among them being the first female in the NHL and being the captain of the team with the first female in the NHL all the while being attracted to each other provides for some edge-of-your-seat-what's-gonna-happen-next-nail-biting-holy-shit moments. They're both such strong characters and yet they show their vulnerabilities to each other.
There are characters in the book that I'd love to have at my back, like Dan and Blane, and movie nights Amanda sounds amazing. Trust me when you get to that part you'll understand. There are also characters in the book that I'd like to take a slap shot, if I could do one, at repeatedly and ones that I'd go for a quick snap shot to the crotch because they show some redeeming qualities.
Where's the steam you may ask. Trust me when I tell you...Hot. Damn. From half imagined fantasies to....getting the Hattrick, if you know what I mean, the buildup was pretty damn hot. They're attraction to each other from the get go is pretty evident but the respect and trust they work to build provides a strong I-want-this-in-my-life-right-now example. That type of relationship along with all the heat? Lemme just break out the hand fan because like I said Hot. Damn.
I've read other hockey romances and they were pretty awesome but one of the things that sets this book apart for me is that you can tell there is a deep and profound love of the game. There is nothing like stepping out onto to that ice and feeling that adrenaline rush the second you do, and knowing that the team has your back and you have theirs. There's nothing like it. And as a hockey player herself you can tell Elise knows and loves the awesome sport that is hockey.
I know I'm waxing a little poetic about hockey here but really it won't matter whether or not you like hockey. If you like a strong female lead with an equally strong male counterpart and you add in wicked hot chemistry, awesomely witty banter, great movie references, fantastic support characters, a truly devious villain, and hockey (of course I had to mention the hockey) then trust me when I say you'll be hooked from beginning to end.
February 25, 2016
Blocked is the story of Brit. She is an amazing goalie who just got the chance of a lifetime... To play in the NHL for the San Francisco Gold. She has busted her ass her entire career to have a chance to play with the big boys. And well they are hockey players, so they are all big. :) (get your mind out of the gutter!) When management tries to force Brit and her hunky captain Stefan together for a publicity stunt things get a little complicated. Even more so when she actually starts to have actual feelings for him... Can she keep her walls up, and make management happy? Or will her efforts be blocked?
It’s no secret that I am no stranger to the romance genre. And to be quite honest, it’s a little hit or miss as a whole. That is the great thing about Elise Faber... It’s a hole in one every time! Okay, I know that was not a hockey euphemism, but I never claimed to be good at sports, so... :)
This book was such a fun read! I read it in one night. I kept thinking to myself, “OK just one more chapter.” Then something would happen and I would tell myself that I couldn’t stop there! But I loved it! Blocked is such a great piece of writing that you cannot tear yourself away. There is a little something for everyone: joy, sadness, despair, hope, trials, good ole’ ass whoopin’ needed moments, screaming at the book moments, and my personal favorite... Not realizing that you are smiling while reading moments. You have to admire the way Elise Faber can break your heart, and make you laugh in the same sentence.
I have been a fan of Elise’s since Sara sent me Phoenix Rising. After starting that series, I knew that I was hooked and would read anything Elise would dangle in front of me. And to this day, I have NEVER been disappointed.
Faber’s writing not only makes you feel like the characters are going to be joining you for Thanksgiving, but she also makes you genuinely feel for them... Whatever their plight may be. Her writing will make you want to strap on skates and take the ice with the team. Which I can tell you is not always a good idea in real life, and may or may not end up with a heating pad and some ibuprofen. :)
All in all, I give book a 5 out of 5!
Elise Faber has the story telling prowess of Scheherazade, and I cannot wait to see what tale she spins next.
Happy Reading!
* I received an ARC for an honest review *
April 2, 2016
Elise Faber has struck again! I read this book in one sitting! And then I immediately read it over again. If that's not a testament to how astonishing Blocked is, then I don't know what is. Not only is this one awesome sports book but its got the sultry romance, deceptive scandal, and one amazing plot turn after the other.
What I loved most about Brit was that she defied the odds. She entered a mans world, balls, or in this case, pucks, to the wall! She doesn't show her fear to her teammates and her first day on the job only proves how driven and determined she is to show how serious she is in a male driven sport. But don't let her tough girl, spirited self fool you. When Stefan enters the picture, gone is the tomboy macho girl, and instead we get a glimpse of the vulnerable, feminine Brit who turns into a gooey welcomed mess! Between falling for Stefan, living through a scary past, and fighting for the future of her career, Brit is one hell of a woman!
Stefan has a lot of catching up to do with his team. As captain, he's determined to turn the Gold's losing streak, and their tarnished reputations, around. Add to the fact that he's the sole caretaker for his ill, but spunky and charismatic, mother (a storyline that will no doubt tug at your heart strings!),his plate is full. His ability and drive to make this a winning season is in jeopardy though.
Together, their fast forming friendship turns into a slow, achingly lustful romance that burns the sheets through and through. This was by far one of the best build-ups I've read in a very long time and the moment they finally come together, you can't help but cheer. But their romance is tested right from the start and until Brit can tell the truth to Stefan, they will never be truly together.
One of the things that I loved most about this book is Elise made you not only fall for Brit and Stefan, but she made you open your heart to Blane, Mandy, and Dan. Add in the comedic aspects (I flipped my lid over the Star Wars and SNL references), the devious and malicious acts of Susan, Jessica and Mike and this book has what it takes to be a sure fire hit!
What I loved most about Brit was that she defied the odds. She entered a mans world, balls, or in this case, pucks, to the wall! She doesn't show her fear to her teammates and her first day on the job only proves how driven and determined she is to show how serious she is in a male driven sport. But don't let her tough girl, spirited self fool you. When Stefan enters the picture, gone is the tomboy macho girl, and instead we get a glimpse of the vulnerable, feminine Brit who turns into a gooey welcomed mess! Between falling for Stefan, living through a scary past, and fighting for the future of her career, Brit is one hell of a woman!
Stefan has a lot of catching up to do with his team. As captain, he's determined to turn the Gold's losing streak, and their tarnished reputations, around. Add to the fact that he's the sole caretaker for his ill, but spunky and charismatic, mother (a storyline that will no doubt tug at your heart strings!),his plate is full. His ability and drive to make this a winning season is in jeopardy though.
Together, their fast forming friendship turns into a slow, achingly lustful romance that burns the sheets through and through. This was by far one of the best build-ups I've read in a very long time and the moment they finally come together, you can't help but cheer. But their romance is tested right from the start and until Brit can tell the truth to Stefan, they will never be truly together.
One of the things that I loved most about this book is Elise made you not only fall for Brit and Stefan, but she made you open your heart to Blane, Mandy, and Dan. Add in the comedic aspects (I flipped my lid over the Star Wars and SNL references), the devious and malicious acts of Susan, Jessica and Mike and this book has what it takes to be a sure fire hit!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 224 reviews