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Chicago Blaze #1
Anton
He’s known as Father Anton to his teammates—the brooding, sexy captain of the NHL’s Chicago Blaze has a reputation for…not having a reputation. Just like his diet and sleep routines, celibacy is part of Anton Petrov’s on-ice mojo. Or so they say. Anton stays mum on the subject. If the world thinks he chooses to abstain from sex, so be it. Better that than the truth getting out: there is a woman he burns for, but he can never have her. She’s his teammate’s wife, after all.
Mia Marceau is finally on her own. Now that she and her husband are living apart, she’s finding the peace she was desperate for. She spends her days in classes and late nights bartending, making her own way in the world at last. After what she’s been through, as long as her husband leaves her alone, she doesn’t plan to rock the boat. He still has the power to hurt those dearest to her, and she can’t demand a divorce with such a high cost.
A chance encounter with Mia has Anton hoping for a shot he never thought he’d get. And while she’s drawn to the intense, serious hockey center, Mia’s leery about playing with fire. That’s all Anton has ever known for Mia, though—a living, burning desire that won’t be denied—no matter the cost.
Mia Marceau is finally on her own. Now that she and her husband are living apart, she’s finding the peace she was desperate for. She spends her days in classes and late nights bartending, making her own way in the world at last. After what she’s been through, as long as her husband leaves her alone, she doesn’t plan to rock the boat. He still has the power to hurt those dearest to her, and she can’t demand a divorce with such a high cost.
A chance encounter with Mia has Anton hoping for a shot he never thought he’d get. And while she’s drawn to the intense, serious hockey center, Mia’s leery about playing with fire. That’s all Anton has ever known for Mia, though—a living, burning desire that won’t be denied—no matter the cost.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 29, 2019
1220 people are currently reading
3103 people want to read
About the author
Brenda Rothert
91 books2,274 followersBrenda Rothert is the author of more than thirty Contemporary Romance novels. You can learn more about her books at her website, www.brendarothert.com, which features teasers, excerpts and trailers for her books. Follow her here:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 496 reviews
January 20, 2025
Eine Liebesgeschichte, die nicht sein darf. Eishockey-Spieler Anton hat sich in Mia verliebt, die Frau eines Teamkollegen. Auch Mia entwickelt Gefühle für Anton, zumal es in ihrer Ehe nicht zum Besten steht...
Ich fand es ganz nett, aber überwältigt hat mich die Geschichte nicht. Zu viel Drama, alles ein bisschen zu übertrieben für meinen Geschmack.
Ich fand es ganz nett, aber überwältigt hat mich die Geschichte nicht. Zu viel Drama, alles ein bisschen zu übertrieben für meinen Geschmack.
January 31, 2019
★ 3 STARS ★
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June 18, 2019
Too cheesy and too corny.
Its a shame since I enjoy Miss Rothert's other books. However in Anton, I find it flat boring. The author does not shades a light why Anton choose to be celibate. What is it about Mia? To me Mia is also flat dimensional character.
The characters development is flat. I feel the chemistry between Mia and Anton is cheesy. And there is no explanation why Mia keeps her secret while being with Anton. I mean Anton waits for 3 years for her and she still keeping secret from him? I don't understand.
2 stars
Its a shame since I enjoy Miss Rothert's other books. However in Anton, I find it flat boring. The author does not shades a light why Anton choose to be celibate. What is it about Mia? To me Mia is also flat dimensional character.
The characters development is flat. I feel the chemistry between Mia and Anton is cheesy. And there is no explanation why Mia keeps her secret while being with Anton. I mean Anton waits for 3 years for her and she still keeping secret from him? I don't understand.
2 stars
July 21, 2019
Sadness and love
First I adore a good hockey romance. This was excellent. Anton is a rugged hockey player and captain of his team The Blaze. He has been in love with a girl named But Mia is married to one of the players on his team. When Anton finds out how Adam treats his wife Mia .Anton befriends Mia.aT his is there story.
First I adore a good hockey romance. This was excellent. Anton is a rugged hockey player and captain of his team The Blaze. He has been in love with a girl named But Mia is married to one of the players on his team. When Anton finds out how Adam treats his wife Mia .Anton befriends Mia.aT his is there story.
February 1, 2019
Anton is the first book in a brand new hockey romance series by the lovely Ms. Rothert.
Characters & Chemistry.
Mia Marceau thought that she would be leading a different life but that isn’t the case. After finally leaving her cheating husband she has decided to go back to college but she also has to support her Grandfather who is a nursing facility. And she will do whatever it takes.
My heart broke for Mia and the lemons that she was given. Especially what she did to get her cheating husband to pay for the nursing home. I liked Mia but for me personally and domestic abuse is a serious topic be it physical or psychological abuse and no walk in the park. But there was more in Mia than the author showed us and I would have loved to have seen her full potential.
Father Anton Petrov is Chicago’s Blaze best player born in Russia he and his twin brother moved to the states to play hockey to lead a better life. He now leads that life and tries to pay that kindness back and forward basically in any way that he can. By helping where he can and looking after his Uncle Dix after he has had two strokes.
Anton has been celibate for a couple of years ever since he met Mia but he could never act on it because she was married to teammate. Anton is one of the best Hero’s that I have read about in a very long time, he is all about the heroine and would give her the moon. He is strong, patient a gentlemen and an all-round good guy.
These two had strong emotional chemistry but sexually nothing happened right till the end of the book because Mia didn’t want to be known as a cheater not like her soon to be ex-husband. They have sexually chemistry although I did skim. #sorry.
Writing, Plot & Pace.
I love the author’s writing and she truly is talented. The plot unfortunately isn’t unique but the execution is there are I did have the feels. So no complaints on my part. There is great build-up, emotions etc. but somehow it just fell flat in places. The pace is the same.
Verdict.
Enjoyable and a refreshing read especially as the Hero of the book was virtually celibate since he first saw our heroine. I can’t wait for the over books in the series Luca and Vic but especially Luca.
Characters & Chemistry.
Mia Marceau thought that she would be leading a different life but that isn’t the case. After finally leaving her cheating husband she has decided to go back to college but she also has to support her Grandfather who is a nursing facility. And she will do whatever it takes.
My heart broke for Mia and the lemons that she was given. Especially what she did to get her cheating husband to pay for the nursing home. I liked Mia but for me personally and domestic abuse is a serious topic be it physical or psychological abuse and no walk in the park. But there was more in Mia than the author showed us and I would have loved to have seen her full potential.
Father Anton Petrov is Chicago’s Blaze best player born in Russia he and his twin brother moved to the states to play hockey to lead a better life. He now leads that life and tries to pay that kindness back and forward basically in any way that he can. By helping where he can and looking after his Uncle Dix after he has had two strokes.
Anton has been celibate for a couple of years ever since he met Mia but he could never act on it because she was married to teammate. Anton is one of the best Hero’s that I have read about in a very long time, he is all about the heroine and would give her the moon. He is strong, patient a gentlemen and an all-round good guy.
These two had strong emotional chemistry but sexually nothing happened right till the end of the book because Mia didn’t want to be known as a cheater not like her soon to be ex-husband. They have sexually chemistry although I did skim. #sorry.
Writing, Plot & Pace.
I love the author’s writing and she truly is talented. The plot unfortunately isn’t unique but the execution is there are I did have the feels. So no complaints on my part. There is great build-up, emotions etc. but somehow it just fell flat in places. The pace is the same.
Verdict.
Enjoyable and a refreshing read especially as the Hero of the book was virtually celibate since he first saw our heroine. I can’t wait for the over books in the series Luca and Vic but especially Luca.
March 7, 2020
Spoilers ahead
From the moment Anton met his teammate's wife he wanted her, he tried dating other women but it never worked so for over 2 years he's been celibate even though he didn't think he'd have a shot with Mia
Mia dropped out of college to marry her husband only for him to turn into an abusive asshole shortly after. Years of taking his verbal and emotional abuse and public cheating have worn down her confidence but she finally finds the courage to leave. With no money of her own Mia starts working as a bartender to make ends meet. At first seeing Anton makes her afraid her husband will find her but his persistence in being her friend warms her heart. With his help she's able to divorce her husband and open her heart to a man worthy of her love
************
Anton is either a truly amazing man or a serious creep lol, he's spent years without sex because the one woman he wanted was married to someone else. I loved him and his genuine heart and dedication to Mia
Now I try to have sympathy for victims of abuse but cry baby Mia annoyed me endlessly. She was blackmailed by her husband into giving him bj's to pay for her grandfather's home but when Anton offered to help her she turned him down, so she prefers to prostitute herself to her scumbag cheating husband rather than lean on a good man even temporarily??? Seriously??? Listen I get that a woman might be cautious about a new relationship but the only thing Anton didn't do to show her he cared was lie down and let her walk on him! I mean gurllllll c'mon!!
Mia's husband was a really horrible person and he eventually attempted to choke her, one assumes, to death, his punishment was a fine and tk play for a European team.... Really author???!!! REALLY????? At least Anton put a beatdown on him
Again this author attempted to have a secondary character be a funny cantankerous person but Anton's uncle just came across as a foul mouthed frat boy! The things he said are probably only funny to teen boys
Without Anton this book would've been rated less than 1 star
No cheating
h gave her husband a couple of blowjobs to pay for her grandfather's home
H had sex with OW in the beginning but he's been celibate almost 3 years
h was attacked by her husband
h was a victim of abuse
From the moment Anton met his teammate's wife he wanted her, he tried dating other women but it never worked so for over 2 years he's been celibate even though he didn't think he'd have a shot with Mia
Mia dropped out of college to marry her husband only for him to turn into an abusive asshole shortly after. Years of taking his verbal and emotional abuse and public cheating have worn down her confidence but she finally finds the courage to leave. With no money of her own Mia starts working as a bartender to make ends meet. At first seeing Anton makes her afraid her husband will find her but his persistence in being her friend warms her heart. With his help she's able to divorce her husband and open her heart to a man worthy of her love
************
Anton is either a truly amazing man or a serious creep lol, he's spent years without sex because the one woman he wanted was married to someone else. I loved him and his genuine heart and dedication to Mia
Now I try to have sympathy for victims of abuse but cry baby Mia annoyed me endlessly. She was blackmailed by her husband into giving him bj's to pay for her grandfather's home but when Anton offered to help her she turned him down, so she prefers to prostitute herself to her scumbag cheating husband rather than lean on a good man even temporarily??? Seriously??? Listen I get that a woman might be cautious about a new relationship but the only thing Anton didn't do to show her he cared was lie down and let her walk on him! I mean gurllllll c'mon!!
Mia's husband was a really horrible person and he eventually attempted to choke her, one assumes, to death, his punishment was a fine and tk play for a European team.... Really author???!!! REALLY????? At least Anton put a beatdown on him
Again this author attempted to have a secondary character be a funny cantankerous person but Anton's uncle just came across as a foul mouthed frat boy! The things he said are probably only funny to teen boys
Without Anton this book would've been rated less than 1 star
No cheating
h gave her husband a couple of blowjobs to pay for her grandfather's home
H had sex with OW in the beginning but he's been celibate almost 3 years
h was attacked by her husband
h was a victim of abuse
April 13, 2019
DNF at 48%
Why forcing myself to finish this?
When I wheeled him into the living room this morning and he saw her in the kitchen, he whistled under his breath and asked me if he could “get chocolate milk from those titties”. I just about lost my shit on him.
I'm out.
Why forcing myself to finish this?
When I wheeled him into the living room this morning and he saw her in the kitchen, he whistled under his breath and asked me if he could “get chocolate milk from those titties”. I just about lost my shit on him.
I'm out.
May 29, 2019
This was basically a really...jeez, I can't say 'sweet' story, because there was some rough stuff going on...But the eventual romance between Anton and Mia was sweet.
Anton's the captain of the Chicago Blaze hockey team. His teammates call him Father Anton, since he's been celibate for three years. Why is he celibate? Because he has a 'thing' for a teammate's wife. Or should I say soon to be ex wife. But even if she is an ex you just don't go there. Bro code and all. But ever since Anton has known Mia, no other woman has interested him. Then a chance encounter with Mia changes the relationship. Could Anton actually have a shot at something with Mia?
I've got to say that I really admired both leads. Anton was just the sweetest, most patient guy who put up with a lot (taking care of his crude, handful of an 'uncle'), being a responsible son and brother and a real family guy, and most importantly being a friend who Mia could count on. Poor Mia had the most horrible husband who constantly belittled and insulted her and eventually physically abused her (I wondered why he married her in the first place). Circumstances prevented her from getting a divorce (this guy had her tied to him) but once Anton was in her corner she started to regain her fighting spirit. I thought she was incredibly strong and I admired how she worked to get the life she deserved back.
There was not a lot of heat in this one until the end (since Mia and Anton refused to be technically unfaithful until she could break free of her louse of a husband) but there was enough going on in other parts of the story to hold my interest.
So a solid start to this first book in the series (And wowza check out that cover...). I enjoyed reading about Anton's linemates so much that I've moved on to book two, Luca.
4 stars
Anton's the captain of the Chicago Blaze hockey team. His teammates call him Father Anton, since he's been celibate for three years. Why is he celibate? Because he has a 'thing' for a teammate's wife. Or should I say soon to be ex wife. But even if she is an ex you just don't go there. Bro code and all. But ever since Anton has known Mia, no other woman has interested him. Then a chance encounter with Mia changes the relationship. Could Anton actually have a shot at something with Mia?
I've got to say that I really admired both leads. Anton was just the sweetest, most patient guy who put up with a lot (taking care of his crude, handful of an 'uncle'), being a responsible son and brother and a real family guy, and most importantly being a friend who Mia could count on. Poor Mia had the most horrible husband who constantly belittled and insulted her and eventually physically abused her (I wondered why he married her in the first place). Circumstances prevented her from getting a divorce (this guy had her tied to him) but once Anton was in her corner she started to regain her fighting spirit. I thought she was incredibly strong and I admired how she worked to get the life she deserved back.
There was not a lot of heat in this one until the end (since Mia and Anton refused to be technically unfaithful until she could break free of her louse of a husband) but there was enough going on in other parts of the story to hold my interest.
So a solid start to this first book in the series (And wowza check out that cover...). I enjoyed reading about Anton's linemates so much that I've moved on to book two, Luca.
4 stars
February 28, 2020
3.5 ⭐️’s
I literally picked this book up because of the cover. OMG! That model’s butt is swoon worthy. Lol 🥰. Add in the tattoo, the pose and his looks and it’s a shut out! 🔥❤️🏒🔥
”If we can get there, Mia—if we can actually get to a point where we’re together—I promise you’ll be everything to me.”
Characters
Anton (31, professional hockey player for the Chicago Blaze, center position, team captain):
The following words/phrases were used to describe Anton: Russian, twin, hard worker, celibate, attractive, big-hearted, focused, strong, talented, protective, patient, a gentleman.
Three things about Anton:
- He's been celibate for 3 years because the girl he is infatuated with is married to his teammate
- he takes care of his surly uncle
- he’s a good guy
Some quotes about Anton:
“Nothing compares to the adrenaline rush of game days, but I’ve got a thing for practices, too. When the rink is quiet, and you only hear the whoosh of skate blades on ice and sticks hitting the rink, it’s pretty damn zen to me.”
“It’s a cardinal violation of the bro code to lust after your buddy’s wife or ex-wife. Even worse when he’s your teammate. I’m the captain of the Chicago Blaze and I have to stay above reproach. If it even got out that I have feelings for Mia, whether I ever acted on them or not, it would divide our team in an ugly way.”
“I’m known as a guy who eats clean, doesn’t drink, gets his sleep and doesn’t fuck around with women.”
Mia (29, bartender, going to college):
The following words/phrases were used to describe Mia: broke, living in limbo, married, not a cheater, desperate to escape her marriage, alone, chronically exhausted, compassionate, gorgeous, strong, savvy, hard-working, defeated, broken, imperfect, a fighter, fierce.
Three things about Mia:
- she loves her grandpa to pieces, but he has Alzheimer’s and doesn’t remember her 😢
- she is married to a complete and total jackass who openly cheats on her and loves to humiliate her (thankfully they are separated)
- She is trapped because she doesn’t have the financial means to get away from her husband and she is ashamed she allows him to humiliate her.
Some quotes about Mia:
“He froze all our bank accounts when he found out I was leaving him, and opened new ones in his name only. If I file for divorce, which I can’t afford because attorneys are so expensive, I can get what’s coming to me, but it’ll take months.”
“My marriage to Adam has been an emotional prison for such a long time. Being free from him was a dream I didn’t even dare consider.”
“He treats me like a worthless piece of shit and it makes me feel like a worthless piece of shit. He hurts me over and over, and every time, he gets away with it and I end up crying and ashamed.”
“I feel dirty. Damaged. Deeply ashamed. Adam makes me hurt like no one ever has.”
The Story:
Anton has been pining over his teammate’s wife for the last few years (of course the teammate is a total douchebag). So when a door opens for something more, Anton doesn’t waste any time.
My Thoughts:
The following are my thoughts about this book:
- I loved the relationship and banter between the two brothers (Anton and Alexei). 😍 ”He points at his chest, “leading the league in goals scored.”
- I point at myself. “Highest paid.”
- My twin turns his finger and points it at me. “Biggest asshole.”
- “Biggest dick, too.” I look down at my crotch and grin. “Literally.”
- It did seem odd that Anton wouldn’t date any other women for over 2 years because he was infatuated with his teammate’s wife. It made him seem kind of creepy in the beginning. What guy doesn’t move on when a woman isn’t available??? 🤔
- I couldn't wait for Mia to finally be rid of Adam. Unfortunately, I felt like that took way too long and it ended up being anti-climatic. I thought there would be a huge fight and their divorce would be a major element of the story, but when all was said and done the story just said… 3 months later.
- Uncle Dix.....what a crotchety old man-the perfect type to make a story fun. “See how pleasant the beer and nachos made me, you two? Get me some porn and a bottle of lotion and I’ll be the jolliest fuckin’ old man you ever seen. I’ll have sunshine comin’ out my ass.” 🤣
- Deep down Uncle Dix had a soft heart...awww 😍 “Look at you. Pretty, smart as a whip, funny, kind. You’re a shit cook but he’s rich so it don’t matter. Stop telling yourself you’re stupid. That you’re somehow responsible for your asswipe husband’s inexcusable behavior. And that you’re lucky a man like Anton would want you. He’s lucky, you hear?”
- the slow burn didn’t bother me. I liked that they established a friendship before they jumped into bed. But if you’re looking for a steamy, knock-your-socks off, hotter-than hot-romance, this won’t be it.
- the writing was good, but it was a smidge boring. It was a pretty quick read.
Overall:
- POV: dual POV
- Tropes: friends to lovers (although their attraction is what led them to be friends in the first place and they were really only “friends” for about 6 months before they slept together......so not the long-standing friends type of trope), athlete, tortured heroine, biracial couple (although that wasn’t an issue in the story), financial disparity (H rich/h broke), SLOW burn.
- H likable? Yes
- h likable? Yes
- h virgin? no
- First time they sleep together: 94%
- steamy? Not really seeing as they were just friends for most of the book
- OW/OM drama? Mia’s husband makes life difficult for her
- H/h cheat? no
- Did I skip pages? No
- Big secrets? Mia has a secret that she keeps from Anton because she is afraid of his reaction. It's a secret that happens in many romance novels and of course Anton doesn't have a negative reaction. Overblown drama. She reveals her secret at 90%
- Did I cry? no. Although Uncle Dix was a sad moment.
- Did I laugh? I chuckled a few times over the cantankerous old uncle
- Cliffhanger? no
- Epilogue? yes. 4 months later
- Recommend? yes
Quotes
“I think my grandparents are the only ones who have ever made me feel like Anton just did. Like I’m a good person who deserves…better.”
“He’s the most foul-mouthed, ungrateful old grouch I’ve ever met.“
“When you get ready to admit you’re not okay, call me and you’ll see what a fierce friend I am.”
“That turkey burger smelled like you took a big shit on a plate!” Uncle Dix grouses.
“I know in my head that I have a lot to offer Anton. But the bruises Adam put on my heart with words like whore and worthless are still there.”
“Adam has been the darkness in my life for a while. The universe gave me an unexpected counterbalance in Anton. He’s the light. The hope. The joy.
“You do realize my nephew is in love with you, right? Ass over teakettle. Ain’t no hope for that boy, he’s got it bad for you.”
“I won’t tell anyone you were nice to me,” I say. “Promise. As far as I’m concerned, you were a surly bastard today.”
“Me: What if the fantasy of me is better than the reality?
Anton: It’s not.
Me: But what if it is? What if you kiss me and I taste like sardines or slobber all over your mouth?
Anton: I’ve got breath mints and a handkerchief”
I literally picked this book up because of the cover. OMG! That model’s butt is swoon worthy. Lol 🥰. Add in the tattoo, the pose and his looks and it’s a shut out! 🔥❤️🏒🔥
”If we can get there, Mia—if we can actually get to a point where we’re together—I promise you’ll be everything to me.”
Characters
Anton (31, professional hockey player for the Chicago Blaze, center position, team captain):
The following words/phrases were used to describe Anton: Russian, twin, hard worker, celibate, attractive, big-hearted, focused, strong, talented, protective, patient, a gentleman.
Three things about Anton:
- He's been celibate for 3 years because the girl he is infatuated with is married to his teammate
- he takes care of his surly uncle
- he’s a good guy
Some quotes about Anton:
“Nothing compares to the adrenaline rush of game days, but I’ve got a thing for practices, too. When the rink is quiet, and you only hear the whoosh of skate blades on ice and sticks hitting the rink, it’s pretty damn zen to me.”
“It’s a cardinal violation of the bro code to lust after your buddy’s wife or ex-wife. Even worse when he’s your teammate. I’m the captain of the Chicago Blaze and I have to stay above reproach. If it even got out that I have feelings for Mia, whether I ever acted on them or not, it would divide our team in an ugly way.”
“I’m known as a guy who eats clean, doesn’t drink, gets his sleep and doesn’t fuck around with women.”
Mia (29, bartender, going to college):
The following words/phrases were used to describe Mia: broke, living in limbo, married, not a cheater, desperate to escape her marriage, alone, chronically exhausted, compassionate, gorgeous, strong, savvy, hard-working, defeated, broken, imperfect, a fighter, fierce.
Three things about Mia:
- she loves her grandpa to pieces, but he has Alzheimer’s and doesn’t remember her 😢
- she is married to a complete and total jackass who openly cheats on her and loves to humiliate her (thankfully they are separated)
- She is trapped because she doesn’t have the financial means to get away from her husband and she is ashamed she allows him to humiliate her.
Some quotes about Mia:
“He froze all our bank accounts when he found out I was leaving him, and opened new ones in his name only. If I file for divorce, which I can’t afford because attorneys are so expensive, I can get what’s coming to me, but it’ll take months.”
“My marriage to Adam has been an emotional prison for such a long time. Being free from him was a dream I didn’t even dare consider.”
“He treats me like a worthless piece of shit and it makes me feel like a worthless piece of shit. He hurts me over and over, and every time, he gets away with it and I end up crying and ashamed.”
“I feel dirty. Damaged. Deeply ashamed. Adam makes me hurt like no one ever has.”
The Story:
Anton has been pining over his teammate’s wife for the last few years (of course the teammate is a total douchebag). So when a door opens for something more, Anton doesn’t waste any time.
My Thoughts:
The following are my thoughts about this book:
- I loved the relationship and banter between the two brothers (Anton and Alexei). 😍 ”He points at his chest, “leading the league in goals scored.”
- I point at myself. “Highest paid.”
- My twin turns his finger and points it at me. “Biggest asshole.”
- “Biggest dick, too.” I look down at my crotch and grin. “Literally.”
- It did seem odd that Anton wouldn’t date any other women for over 2 years because he was infatuated with his teammate’s wife. It made him seem kind of creepy in the beginning. What guy doesn’t move on when a woman isn’t available??? 🤔
- I couldn't wait for Mia to finally be rid of Adam. Unfortunately, I felt like that took way too long and it ended up being anti-climatic. I thought there would be a huge fight and their divorce would be a major element of the story, but when all was said and done the story just said… 3 months later.
- Uncle Dix.....what a crotchety old man-the perfect type to make a story fun. “See how pleasant the beer and nachos made me, you two? Get me some porn and a bottle of lotion and I’ll be the jolliest fuckin’ old man you ever seen. I’ll have sunshine comin’ out my ass.” 🤣
- Deep down Uncle Dix had a soft heart...awww 😍 “Look at you. Pretty, smart as a whip, funny, kind. You’re a shit cook but he’s rich so it don’t matter. Stop telling yourself you’re stupid. That you’re somehow responsible for your asswipe husband’s inexcusable behavior. And that you’re lucky a man like Anton would want you. He’s lucky, you hear?”
- the slow burn didn’t bother me. I liked that they established a friendship before they jumped into bed. But if you’re looking for a steamy, knock-your-socks off, hotter-than hot-romance, this won’t be it.
- the writing was good, but it was a smidge boring. It was a pretty quick read.
Overall:
- POV: dual POV
- Tropes: friends to lovers (although their attraction is what led them to be friends in the first place and they were really only “friends” for about 6 months before they slept together......so not the long-standing friends type of trope), athlete, tortured heroine, biracial couple (although that wasn’t an issue in the story), financial disparity (H rich/h broke), SLOW burn.
- H likable? Yes
- h likable? Yes
- h virgin? no
- First time they sleep together: 94%
- steamy? Not really seeing as they were just friends for most of the book
- OW/OM drama? Mia’s husband makes life difficult for her
- H/h cheat? no
- Did I skip pages? No
- Big secrets? Mia has a secret that she keeps from Anton because she is afraid of his reaction. It's a secret that happens in many romance novels and of course Anton doesn't have a negative reaction. Overblown drama. She reveals her secret at 90%
- Did I cry? no. Although Uncle Dix was a sad moment.
- Did I laugh? I chuckled a few times over the cantankerous old uncle
- Cliffhanger? no
- Epilogue? yes. 4 months later
- Recommend? yes
Quotes
“I think my grandparents are the only ones who have ever made me feel like Anton just did. Like I’m a good person who deserves…better.”
“He’s the most foul-mouthed, ungrateful old grouch I’ve ever met.“
“When you get ready to admit you’re not okay, call me and you’ll see what a fierce friend I am.”
“That turkey burger smelled like you took a big shit on a plate!” Uncle Dix grouses.
“I know in my head that I have a lot to offer Anton. But the bruises Adam put on my heart with words like whore and worthless are still there.”
“Adam has been the darkness in my life for a while. The universe gave me an unexpected counterbalance in Anton. He’s the light. The hope. The joy.
“You do realize my nephew is in love with you, right? Ass over teakettle. Ain’t no hope for that boy, he’s got it bad for you.”
“I won’t tell anyone you were nice to me,” I say. “Promise. As far as I’m concerned, you were a surly bastard today.”
“Me: What if the fantasy of me is better than the reality?
Anton: It’s not.
Me: But what if it is? What if you kiss me and I taste like sardines or slobber all over your mouth?
Anton: I’ve got breath mints and a handkerchief”
August 2, 2024
So much!
Not at all what I was expecting! So much drama, heartache and then piecing back together. Light on the smut but did not mind at all. Anton is the ideal book boyfriend, yes if only a man that fierce & loyal. Swoon!
Not at all what I was expecting! So much drama, heartache and then piecing back together. Light on the smut but did not mind at all. Anton is the ideal book boyfriend, yes if only a man that fierce & loyal. Swoon!
January 31, 2019
REVIEW: 4 STARS
"She's a mystery I'm slowly figuring out, my reward her moans and gasps of pleasure."
Ever since I saw the synopsis for Anton, I knew this was going to be a book I needed to read. And of course, what a great introduction to Brenda Rothert's writing I got with this one. She has been recommended to me a few times, so I finally read her and I'm glad I did. Her voice was clear and concise and the flow was perfect. With this series opener, I will most definitely be following this team and the characters she has introduced me to. A super sweet, super easy, well read book. I am now ready for more of her words!
Anton, I mean...behold that cover. Is that not THE most delicious cover??? I knew I wanted to read it based on the forbidden aspect of the synopsis, but the cover sure would have made me double take and check it out. And let me just answer that question first; Yes, this was the perfect visual for Father Anton. Ok? The perfect one. She gave him a soft demeanor with a very overprotective instinct, disguised with good looks and a force to be reckoned with on the ice. One that makes you sigh with contentment because he wasn't your clichéd cocky hockey player and I rather enjoyed that change of pace.
Mia and Anton was supposed to be a forbidden love, but what I saw was a woman that was strong and a man that was smitten, both fighting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I got a couple that tried to do everything 'by the book' and their attraction was palpable. Anton was determined, yet conditioned in every aspect of his life, so his patience was very admirable. He had a heart of gold and was definitely NOT your typical sports player. I could appreciate how Rothert made him his own anomaly, and in turn, I got a standup man worth falling for.
Sidebar: Uncle Dix was freaking funny. He played the part I knew he would and he owned it!! Loved him!!!!
I just came off some seriously heavy, intensely screwed up reads and not knowing if this one was going to be more of a heavier read or not, I was actually quite relieved that it was such an easy read. I mean easy as in, the action in her words and the cadence of them was symbiotic and the subject was a lot lighter than I had anticipated. I breezed right through this book and for as calm as it was, it really held my attention. That says a lot to me because I usually connect with the emotionally heavy reads easier. This was so laid back, but so easy to get into and enjoy.
Although the writing was a little on the light side, I am still glad I jumped in because this is a series I will be following quite closely!!! Easy flow, likable characters and a love that'll make you smile. I am excited to get a few more stories in this series from her!!
"She's my first thought in the morning and the last before I fall asleep."
~BEE
Amazon AA Link: https://amzn.to/2Gbo4g1
Enter here to win an ecopy: http://bit.ly/2DKhyLD
"She's a mystery I'm slowly figuring out, my reward her moans and gasps of pleasure."
Ever since I saw the synopsis for Anton, I knew this was going to be a book I needed to read. And of course, what a great introduction to Brenda Rothert's writing I got with this one. She has been recommended to me a few times, so I finally read her and I'm glad I did. Her voice was clear and concise and the flow was perfect. With this series opener, I will most definitely be following this team and the characters she has introduced me to. A super sweet, super easy, well read book. I am now ready for more of her words!
Anton, I mean...behold that cover. Is that not THE most delicious cover??? I knew I wanted to read it based on the forbidden aspect of the synopsis, but the cover sure would have made me double take and check it out. And let me just answer that question first; Yes, this was the perfect visual for Father Anton. Ok? The perfect one. She gave him a soft demeanor with a very overprotective instinct, disguised with good looks and a force to be reckoned with on the ice. One that makes you sigh with contentment because he wasn't your clichéd cocky hockey player and I rather enjoyed that change of pace.
Mia and Anton was supposed to be a forbidden love, but what I saw was a woman that was strong and a man that was smitten, both fighting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I got a couple that tried to do everything 'by the book' and their attraction was palpable. Anton was determined, yet conditioned in every aspect of his life, so his patience was very admirable. He had a heart of gold and was definitely NOT your typical sports player. I could appreciate how Rothert made him his own anomaly, and in turn, I got a standup man worth falling for.
Sidebar: Uncle Dix was freaking funny. He played the part I knew he would and he owned it!! Loved him!!!!
I just came off some seriously heavy, intensely screwed up reads and not knowing if this one was going to be more of a heavier read or not, I was actually quite relieved that it was such an easy read. I mean easy as in, the action in her words and the cadence of them was symbiotic and the subject was a lot lighter than I had anticipated. I breezed right through this book and for as calm as it was, it really held my attention. That says a lot to me because I usually connect with the emotionally heavy reads easier. This was so laid back, but so easy to get into and enjoy.
Although the writing was a little on the light side, I am still glad I jumped in because this is a series I will be following quite closely!!! Easy flow, likable characters and a love that'll make you smile. I am excited to get a few more stories in this series from her!!
"She's my first thought in the morning and the last before I fall asleep."
~BEE
Amazon AA Link: https://amzn.to/2Gbo4g1
Enter here to win an ecopy: http://bit.ly/2DKhyLD
February 1, 2019
I love a good sports romance! A hockey romance just makes it all the better! Anton is the first book in the new Chicago Blaze series and it’s a fantastic start!
Anton and Mia are the leads in this romance. Anton’s very focused on this career—keeping himself in tip top shape takes a lot of work, a lot of time and a lot of energy. He’s doesn’t really have room in his life for anything else—but he’d make an exception for Mia. She’s his dream woman, if only she wasn’t married to one of his teammates.
Mia’s been through the ringer. She’s finally separated from her bastard husband and living on her own. No, life is not perfect. She’s working too many jobs, making too little money to really live a great life. But life is great since she finally decided to leave him.
Enter Anton, he’s everything Mia could ever want in a man—kind, smart, sexy, protective. But he’s off limits, right? No way he’d ever want to be with a woman who was married . . . err, is married to a teammate. But once Mia shares the details of her marriage and separation with Anton, there’s nothing stopping him from protecting Mia and ensuring that eventually she will think of him as hers.
Anton. Oof. He is just sheer perfection. His first response to Mia is insisting to help her—help her with her limited finances, help her get a divorce, help her find herself again. What he isn’t insisting upon is getting her in between the sheets. And I absolutely love that! Does he want her, heck yeah, but he’s not going to rush things, no way! Not when Mia’s been through so much.
And this is why this book works! Mia has been hiding in plain sight for too long. She’s been so mistreated, and she needs to heal those wounds. It’s a slow burn between Anton and Mia. And it’s fabulous! I loved how they came together—how they forged a friendship first. Because, wow, was it fantastic in the end. I’m so looking forward to more in this series! ~ Missy, 4.5 stars
Anton and Mia are the leads in this romance. Anton’s very focused on this career—keeping himself in tip top shape takes a lot of work, a lot of time and a lot of energy. He’s doesn’t really have room in his life for anything else—but he’d make an exception for Mia. She’s his dream woman, if only she wasn’t married to one of his teammates.
Mia’s been through the ringer. She’s finally separated from her bastard husband and living on her own. No, life is not perfect. She’s working too many jobs, making too little money to really live a great life. But life is great since she finally decided to leave him.
Enter Anton, he’s everything Mia could ever want in a man—kind, smart, sexy, protective. But he’s off limits, right? No way he’d ever want to be with a woman who was married . . . err, is married to a teammate. But once Mia shares the details of her marriage and separation with Anton, there’s nothing stopping him from protecting Mia and ensuring that eventually she will think of him as hers.
Anton. Oof. He is just sheer perfection. His first response to Mia is insisting to help her—help her with her limited finances, help her get a divorce, help her find herself again. What he isn’t insisting upon is getting her in between the sheets. And I absolutely love that! Does he want her, heck yeah, but he’s not going to rush things, no way! Not when Mia’s been through so much.
And this is why this book works! Mia has been hiding in plain sight for too long. She’s been so mistreated, and she needs to heal those wounds. It’s a slow burn between Anton and Mia. And it’s fabulous! I loved how they came together—how they forged a friendship first. Because, wow, was it fantastic in the end. I’m so looking forward to more in this series! ~ Missy, 4.5 stars
February 3, 2019
HEAVY on the slow burn.
So heavy that the first and only sex they had happened in 90%.
😒 Fucking ridiculous..
He was in love with her from afar for three years while she was married to another man. He was celebrate the whole time and I was waiting for the explosion to happen.
BOOM!!!
I was sooooo giddy.
SO I waited
And waited
Waited
90% of 😤
Pardon my French,
But what the fuck is that, a Jane Air Novell?
I can't even...
Other than this I enjoyed the story but I don't remember much of it because my frustration was all over me.
Howwwwwt cover!
So heavy that the first and only sex they had happened in 90%.
😒 Fucking ridiculous..
He was in love with her from afar for three years while she was married to another man. He was celebrate the whole time and I was waiting for the explosion to happen.
BOOM!!!
I was sooooo giddy.
SO I waited
And waited
Waited
90% of 😤
Pardon my French,
But what the fuck is that, a Jane Air Novell?
I can't even...
Other than this I enjoyed the story but I don't remember much of it because my frustration was all over me.
Howwwwwt cover!
August 11, 2019
I love a slow burn, but this one was just waaaaaaaaaay toooooooo slooooooooow for me, and it actually stopped me from connecting with the characters. I was just constantly on the edge of my seat waiting for something to happen.
I have to say though, the cover is absolutely stunning, and that’s what drew me to the book in the first place.
I have to say though, the cover is absolutely stunning, and that’s what drew me to the book in the first place.
August 12, 2019
Inhalt: "Chicago Devils - Die Einzige für mich" ist der Auftakt Band der neuen Eishockeyreihe von der Autorin Brenda Rothert. In dem ersten Band geht es um den Captain Anton Petriv der Chicago Devils. Auch bekannt unter dem Spitznamen "der Mönch". Er lebt gesund und achtet streng darauf in Topform zu sein. Was alle nicht wissen ist, dass er nur so enthaltsam lebt, weil er seit 2 Jahren in eine Frau verliebt ist. Sie ist tabu für ihn, denn sie ist die Ehefrau einer seiner Teamkollegen...
Meinung: Das Cover gefällt mir sehr gut. Es ist fast das gleiche wie das Original, nur dass der untere Teil vom Bild fehlt. Das Coverbild weist schon darauf hin, dass es um Eishockey geht und seine Haltung drückt auch das zur Situation passende richtig aus. Der Mann auf dem Cover spiegelt bis auf dieses Tattoo meine Vorstellungen von Anton wieder. Übersetzt wurde das Buch von Michaela Link. Es ist angenehm und flüssig zu lesen. Es wird sowohl aus Mias als auch Antons Perspektive erzählt. Das war auch gut so, da man so viele verschiedene Seiten gesehen und kennengelernt hat. Gerade für den Anfang ist das gut, um die Situationen kennenzulernen in denen die beiden jeweils stecken. Direkt wird klar, dass Mias Ehe nicht so verläuft wie eine gute Ehe eigentlich laufen sollte. Mit der Zeit wird dies immer deutlicher. Aber auch Anton hat sein Päckchen zu tragen. Er muss sich um seinen Onkel Dix kümmern. Er hatte schon zwei Schlaganfälle, weswegen Dix ihn bei sich aufgenommen hat. Allerdings ist Dix alles andere als ein einfach. Er schlägt regelmäßig die Krankenschwestern in die Flucht. Es hat mir sehr gut gefallen, dass sich die Geschichte am Anfang etwas mehr Zeit genommen hat. Das hat den Charakteren die Zeit gegeben eine gute Beziehung aufzubauen. Es hat einfach zur Geschichte gepasst. Gerade deswegen fand ich das Erzähltempo gegen Ende auch zu schnell. Ich fand es unrealistisch, dass Mia ihre Ehe so schnell und relativ einfach verarbeitet hat. Dass Anton seit über 2 Jahren komplett enthaltsam war fand ich sehr unrealistisch. Schließlich hat er sie kaum gekannt. Ich fand es schade, dass das Eishockey kaum eine Rolle gespielt hat, obwohl es eine Sportromanze ist. Mia und Anton sind ein tolles Paar. Die Stimmung zwischen den beiden hat mir sehr gut gefallen. Die beiden haben einige Gemeinsamkeiten. Beide lieben ihre Familie und würden alles für sie tun. Während sich Anton um Onkel Dix kümmert, sorgt Mia dafür, dass ihr Großvater in einem der besten Pflegeheime für Demenzkranke leben kann. Beide sind auch sehr ehrgeizig. Anton ist sein Sport und seine Karriere wichtig. Mia arbeitet so viel sie kann in einer Bar, um sich und den Platz im Pflegeheim für ihren Opa zu finanzieren, damit sie ihren Ehemann nicht um mehr Geld bitten muss als nötig. Anton ist endlich mal kein Badboy. Er ist nett, liebevoll und fürsorglich. Mia tut alles für ein besseres Leben und ist seit kleinauf eine Kämpferin.
Onkel Dix war definitiv ein Highlight der Geschichte. Mit seiner Art treibt er eine Vielzahl an Krankenschwestern in die Flucht. Immer wieder sorgt er für kleine Lacher.
Antons Zwillingsbruder scheint ganz nett und das Gegenteil von Anton zu sein. Ich bin gespannt, ob er tatsächlich seine eigene Geschichte bekommt.
Auch Luca, um den es in dem zweiten Band geht, tauchte jetzt schon ein paar mal auf. Bisher finde ich ihn sympathisch. Seine Geschichte klingt jetzt schon vielversprechend.
Fazit: Ab und zu fehlte es mir ein bisschen an Tiefe und Sport, aber ansonsten hat die Geschichte mir sehr gut gefallen. Es war definitiv mal etwas anderes. Das Buch ist auf jeden Fall etwas für alle die gerne auf die Goodboys stehen. Ich freue mich schon auf den zweiten Teil "Chicago Devils - Alles, was zählt". Es erscheint am 1.12.2019 im Lyx Verlag. Diesmal geht es um den Eishockeyspieler Luca. Die Geschichte ist direkt auf meiner Liste gelandet.
Meinung: Das Cover gefällt mir sehr gut. Es ist fast das gleiche wie das Original, nur dass der untere Teil vom Bild fehlt. Das Coverbild weist schon darauf hin, dass es um Eishockey geht und seine Haltung drückt auch das zur Situation passende richtig aus. Der Mann auf dem Cover spiegelt bis auf dieses Tattoo meine Vorstellungen von Anton wieder. Übersetzt wurde das Buch von Michaela Link. Es ist angenehm und flüssig zu lesen. Es wird sowohl aus Mias als auch Antons Perspektive erzählt. Das war auch gut so, da man so viele verschiedene Seiten gesehen und kennengelernt hat. Gerade für den Anfang ist das gut, um die Situationen kennenzulernen in denen die beiden jeweils stecken. Direkt wird klar, dass Mias Ehe nicht so verläuft wie eine gute Ehe eigentlich laufen sollte. Mit der Zeit wird dies immer deutlicher. Aber auch Anton hat sein Päckchen zu tragen. Er muss sich um seinen Onkel Dix kümmern. Er hatte schon zwei Schlaganfälle, weswegen Dix ihn bei sich aufgenommen hat. Allerdings ist Dix alles andere als ein einfach. Er schlägt regelmäßig die Krankenschwestern in die Flucht. Es hat mir sehr gut gefallen, dass sich die Geschichte am Anfang etwas mehr Zeit genommen hat. Das hat den Charakteren die Zeit gegeben eine gute Beziehung aufzubauen. Es hat einfach zur Geschichte gepasst. Gerade deswegen fand ich das Erzähltempo gegen Ende auch zu schnell. Ich fand es unrealistisch, dass Mia ihre Ehe so schnell und relativ einfach verarbeitet hat. Dass Anton seit über 2 Jahren komplett enthaltsam war fand ich sehr unrealistisch. Schließlich hat er sie kaum gekannt. Ich fand es schade, dass das Eishockey kaum eine Rolle gespielt hat, obwohl es eine Sportromanze ist. Mia und Anton sind ein tolles Paar. Die Stimmung zwischen den beiden hat mir sehr gut gefallen. Die beiden haben einige Gemeinsamkeiten. Beide lieben ihre Familie und würden alles für sie tun. Während sich Anton um Onkel Dix kümmert, sorgt Mia dafür, dass ihr Großvater in einem der besten Pflegeheime für Demenzkranke leben kann. Beide sind auch sehr ehrgeizig. Anton ist sein Sport und seine Karriere wichtig. Mia arbeitet so viel sie kann in einer Bar, um sich und den Platz im Pflegeheim für ihren Opa zu finanzieren, damit sie ihren Ehemann nicht um mehr Geld bitten muss als nötig. Anton ist endlich mal kein Badboy. Er ist nett, liebevoll und fürsorglich. Mia tut alles für ein besseres Leben und ist seit kleinauf eine Kämpferin.
Onkel Dix war definitiv ein Highlight der Geschichte. Mit seiner Art treibt er eine Vielzahl an Krankenschwestern in die Flucht. Immer wieder sorgt er für kleine Lacher.
Antons Zwillingsbruder scheint ganz nett und das Gegenteil von Anton zu sein. Ich bin gespannt, ob er tatsächlich seine eigene Geschichte bekommt.
Auch Luca, um den es in dem zweiten Band geht, tauchte jetzt schon ein paar mal auf. Bisher finde ich ihn sympathisch. Seine Geschichte klingt jetzt schon vielversprechend.
Fazit: Ab und zu fehlte es mir ein bisschen an Tiefe und Sport, aber ansonsten hat die Geschichte mir sehr gut gefallen. Es war definitiv mal etwas anderes. Das Buch ist auf jeden Fall etwas für alle die gerne auf die Goodboys stehen. Ich freue mich schon auf den zweiten Teil "Chicago Devils - Alles, was zählt". Es erscheint am 1.12.2019 im Lyx Verlag. Diesmal geht es um den Eishockeyspieler Luca. Die Geschichte ist direkt auf meiner Liste gelandet.
August 19, 2019
A safe, pretty interesting read. The premise was unique, but just not a whole lot of depth, could have benefitted from being a little bit longer.
Safety Info:
Celibate Hero
Heroine is getting a divorce
Nothing happens till she is divorced
No OW drama
OM drama but he is kind of evil
Safety Info:
Celibate Hero
Heroine is getting a divorce
Nothing happens till she is divorced
No OW drama
OM drama but he is kind of evil
Want to read
August 11, 2019Anton is on sale for $0.99 (regular price $3.99) on Amazon today (8/11/2019)💞
April 22, 2022
"Die Einzige für mich" ist der erste Band der "Chicago Devils" Reihe von Autorin Brenda Rothert. Im Original heißt das Eishockeyteam und die Reihe übrigens "Chicago Blaze". Keine Ahnung, warum man das im Deutschen geändert hat. Ich bin kein Fan von solchen Änderungen.
Die Geschichte behandelt durchaus ernste Themen. Damit hätte ich ehrlich gesagt gar nicht gerechnet. Das Buch hat mich richtig gut unterhalten, kratzt bei gewissen Sachen teilweise aber leider nur an der Oberfläche. Über Eishockey erfährt man z. B. kaum etwas. Das hat mich schon enttäuscht, da es sich hier immerhin um einen Sport-Liebesroman handelt.
Trotz Kritik vergebe ich 4 Sterne und eine Leseempfehlung für den fesselnden Schreibstil und die witzigen Dialoge.
Hier folgen noch einige Infos zum Hörbuch:
6 Stunden und 37 Minuten / Ungekürzte Ausgabe
Verlag: dp DIGITAL PUBLISHERS GmbH
Sprecherin: Cornelia Waibel
Ich würde der Sprecherin 3 Sterne geben. Ab und zu musste ich leider zurückspulen, da ich nicht wusste, ob es gerade um Anton oder Mia ging. Am Anfang der Kapitel wird zwar immer angesagt, um wen es gerade geht, mich hat das aber trotzdem teilweise verwirrt, da ich die Stimme ziemlich monoton fand.
Die Geschichte behandelt durchaus ernste Themen. Damit hätte ich ehrlich gesagt gar nicht gerechnet. Das Buch hat mich richtig gut unterhalten, kratzt bei gewissen Sachen teilweise aber leider nur an der Oberfläche. Über Eishockey erfährt man z. B. kaum etwas. Das hat mich schon enttäuscht, da es sich hier immerhin um einen Sport-Liebesroman handelt.
Trotz Kritik vergebe ich 4 Sterne und eine Leseempfehlung für den fesselnden Schreibstil und die witzigen Dialoge.
Hier folgen noch einige Infos zum Hörbuch:
6 Stunden und 37 Minuten / Ungekürzte Ausgabe
Verlag: dp DIGITAL PUBLISHERS GmbH
Sprecherin: Cornelia Waibel
Ich würde der Sprecherin 3 Sterne geben. Ab und zu musste ich leider zurückspulen, da ich nicht wusste, ob es gerade um Anton oder Mia ging. Am Anfang der Kapitel wird zwar immer angesagt, um wen es gerade geht, mich hat das aber trotzdem teilweise verwirrt, da ich die Stimme ziemlich monoton fand.
February 6, 2019
4.5 stars
Shame on me. I actually sat down to write my review the morning after finishing it and...well...I kinda lost the review. I'm not sure where I saved it so we're starting from scratch!
I loved Anton. He was awesome. He was alpha, protective and just all around great. I honestly wish that I could find a real life Anton for myself.
I loved how committed he was to Mia, even though they couldn't be together. And I don't mean that in a creepy way, or that he was hanging on...but he didn't subscribe to the man-slut philosophy of "I'll sleep with everyone under the sun until I stop wanting the one person I can't have." ... and while there's nothing wrong with characters that do that, it was just a refreshing change.
And once he saw Mia again, he wasn't about to let her go. Even if it meant they were just friends. And that was awesome. Because yes, he had feelings, he wanted to be with her. But he also knew that that's not what she needed and he was ok with just being her friend. And when he found out the crap her husband was putting her through....Let's just say Anton is definitely one of my favorite protective heroes of all time.
I was kind of torn on Anton's brother. On one hand, I really want to know more but at the same time...well, let's just say that one of the reasons I loved Anton...his brother was the exact opposite and his attitude left a lot to be desired.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. Brenda Rothert is one of those authors that when you pick up her books, you know you're in for a great story with some awesome characters!
Shame on me. I actually sat down to write my review the morning after finishing it and...well...I kinda lost the review. I'm not sure where I saved it so we're starting from scratch!
I loved Anton. He was awesome. He was alpha, protective and just all around great. I honestly wish that I could find a real life Anton for myself.
I loved how committed he was to Mia, even though they couldn't be together. And I don't mean that in a creepy way, or that he was hanging on...but he didn't subscribe to the man-slut philosophy of "I'll sleep with everyone under the sun until I stop wanting the one person I can't have." ... and while there's nothing wrong with characters that do that, it was just a refreshing change.
And once he saw Mia again, he wasn't about to let her go. Even if it meant they were just friends. And that was awesome. Because yes, he had feelings, he wanted to be with her. But he also knew that that's not what she needed and he was ok with just being her friend. And when he found out the crap her husband was putting her through....Let's just say Anton is definitely one of my favorite protective heroes of all time.
I was kind of torn on Anton's brother. On one hand, I really want to know more but at the same time...well, let's just say that one of the reasons I loved Anton...his brother was the exact opposite and his attitude left a lot to be desired.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. Brenda Rothert is one of those authors that when you pick up her books, you know you're in for a great story with some awesome characters!
February 3, 2019
“𝗜’𝗺 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗱𝘀, 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗶𝗳 𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂...𝗜’𝗱 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱.”
Not only is this book cover TO DIE FOR…the story behind all of that gorgeousness is absolutely PHENOMENAL! Wow! Brenda Rothert blew my mind and checked all of my emotional boxes with her latest release! 𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗢𝗡 is the first book in a brand new sexy sports romance series, 𝘊𝘩𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘨𝘰 𝘉𝘭𝘢𝘻𝘦, and I couldn’t have asked for a more EPIC start! Anton and Mia were EVERYTHING! Mia has so many demons and Anton wants nothing more than to chase them all away, but it’s not going to be that easy. This forbidden romance had me turning the pages faster and faster, begging…no yearning for their happily ever after. With enough romance and angst to keep you on the edge of your seat, this sexy and emotionally driven love story will have you longing for more of this world!
𝗚𝗥𝗔𝗕 𝗜𝗧 𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘:
Amazon → https://amzn.to/2UGSn2n
B&N → https://bit.ly/2AiFCne
Kobo → https://bit.ly/2QZxKMK
Apple Books → https://apple.co/2S5c03E
Not only is this book cover TO DIE FOR…the story behind all of that gorgeousness is absolutely PHENOMENAL! Wow! Brenda Rothert blew my mind and checked all of my emotional boxes with her latest release! 𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗢𝗡 is the first book in a brand new sexy sports romance series, 𝘊𝘩𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘨𝘰 𝘉𝘭𝘢𝘻𝘦, and I couldn’t have asked for a more EPIC start! Anton and Mia were EVERYTHING! Mia has so many demons and Anton wants nothing more than to chase them all away, but it’s not going to be that easy. This forbidden romance had me turning the pages faster and faster, begging…no yearning for their happily ever after. With enough romance and angst to keep you on the edge of your seat, this sexy and emotionally driven love story will have you longing for more of this world!
𝗚𝗥𝗔𝗕 𝗜𝗧 𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘:
Amazon → https://amzn.to/2UGSn2n
B&N → https://bit.ly/2AiFCne
Kobo → https://bit.ly/2QZxKMK
Apple Books → https://apple.co/2S5c03E
August 12, 2019
This is the first book that I read from this author and it was an ok read for me. Anton has been pining over Mia for a while now but she is married to one of his teammates. When that relationship falls apart, Anton decides to befriend Mia and they start into a friends to lovers relationship. This book was a slow burn and you will be waiting for a while to see any action so if that is what you came here for, then this is not the book for you. If you don’t mind slow burn, then this book is perfect.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 10, 2020
Loved it! That cover, wow!
February 18, 2019
In all the years I’ve been reading and doing reviews I’ve never done this before, it is a first. I’m giving this book 2 grades, one for the outside and one for the inside.
Outside first. Two words. Ohhhh Myyyy. This is without question the most gorgeous and sexy yet tasteful cover I’ve ever seen on a book. Look at it. Study it. Enlarge it. Now try and disagree with me. It’s pure perfection with the model, the tattoos the pose, the title in the most appropriate of places – perfection. I find the cover model to die for handsome and if he were to ever notice me and ask me out on a date I’d be torn. Om the one hand I couldn’t say yes fast enough, on the other hand should I say yes, I’m afraid I would simply gaze in awe the entire date. And that would ruin it and he’s never ask me out again. So I’m left to long from afar. Oh, and save it as my wallpaper. Yes, I did do that. Needless to say the outside gets a A+ x’s infinity even though it’s only electronic and I can’t post it on my bedroom wall. And since I’m well over legal age, that would just be weird anyway.
Inside now. I love the story. I’m quite a fan of Brenda Rothert and have read and loved many of her previous books so I was planning on getting this one anyway since it’s been a while it seems since I read one of her books. And then I saw the cover – but I already covered the cover.
Anton is our hero and what a heart melting hero he is. He’s a pro hockey player and captain of The Chicago Blaze. There are a number of things that make him dreamy but one of the big reasons is he’s gone and fallen in love with the wife of a fellow team member. And that makes completely off limits. What makes it harder though she stays off limits is he husband and Anton’s team mate is a total and complete a-hole. And because Anton is so gone for Mia Marceau it’s her he wants and longs for and only her. So he’s been celibate for quite some time. And for some reason that really amps up his appeal, a guy who’s holding out for a lost cause.
BUT
As this is a romance it turns out it’s not such a lost cause after all. Anton runs into Mia as she’s bartending. He ends up driving her home; it’s late and he worries for her. He discovers that she and her husband have split with no chance of them getting back together and because her husband is being the Snidely Whiplash of villains, he’s holding out any and all funds and Mia is all on her own, trying to keep herself going as well as keeping her grandfather in a good home.
Anton sees light at the end of his tunnel. She’s still off limits as she is only separated and not divorced so he becomes her friend and protector. He hires her to look after his grouch of an uncle and is there for her in a number of different ways. As they spend more and more time together, he falls deeper and she begins to reciprocate his feelings.
Overall I very much enjoyed this book. There were a few things that didn’t work quite as well as most of the book but that’s kind of nitpicking to be honest. I found her husband and the villain of the story too over the top in his villainess. I didn’t like the lengths she went to for money to help her grandfather, but overall I enjoyed it. Anton was beyond a great hero; his Russianness most appealing and I quite admired the grit that Mia had. I love that they both had strong morals and wanted to wait until Mia was no longer a married woman before acting on their very strong attraction.
This is the first book in a series and as Anton has a twin brother who also plays hockey…….
Quick update - next book is not about Anton's brother but a team member and I've already pre-ordered it.
Outside first. Two words. Ohhhh Myyyy. This is without question the most gorgeous and sexy yet tasteful cover I’ve ever seen on a book. Look at it. Study it. Enlarge it. Now try and disagree with me. It’s pure perfection with the model, the tattoos the pose, the title in the most appropriate of places – perfection. I find the cover model to die for handsome and if he were to ever notice me and ask me out on a date I’d be torn. Om the one hand I couldn’t say yes fast enough, on the other hand should I say yes, I’m afraid I would simply gaze in awe the entire date. And that would ruin it and he’s never ask me out again. So I’m left to long from afar. Oh, and save it as my wallpaper. Yes, I did do that. Needless to say the outside gets a A+ x’s infinity even though it’s only electronic and I can’t post it on my bedroom wall. And since I’m well over legal age, that would just be weird anyway.
Inside now. I love the story. I’m quite a fan of Brenda Rothert and have read and loved many of her previous books so I was planning on getting this one anyway since it’s been a while it seems since I read one of her books. And then I saw the cover – but I already covered the cover.
Anton is our hero and what a heart melting hero he is. He’s a pro hockey player and captain of The Chicago Blaze. There are a number of things that make him dreamy but one of the big reasons is he’s gone and fallen in love with the wife of a fellow team member. And that makes completely off limits. What makes it harder though she stays off limits is he husband and Anton’s team mate is a total and complete a-hole. And because Anton is so gone for Mia Marceau it’s her he wants and longs for and only her. So he’s been celibate for quite some time. And for some reason that really amps up his appeal, a guy who’s holding out for a lost cause.
BUT
As this is a romance it turns out it’s not such a lost cause after all. Anton runs into Mia as she’s bartending. He ends up driving her home; it’s late and he worries for her. He discovers that she and her husband have split with no chance of them getting back together and because her husband is being the Snidely Whiplash of villains, he’s holding out any and all funds and Mia is all on her own, trying to keep herself going as well as keeping her grandfather in a good home.
Anton sees light at the end of his tunnel. She’s still off limits as she is only separated and not divorced so he becomes her friend and protector. He hires her to look after his grouch of an uncle and is there for her in a number of different ways. As they spend more and more time together, he falls deeper and she begins to reciprocate his feelings.
Overall I very much enjoyed this book. There were a few things that didn’t work quite as well as most of the book but that’s kind of nitpicking to be honest. I found her husband and the villain of the story too over the top in his villainess. I didn’t like the lengths she went to for money to help her grandfather, but overall I enjoyed it. Anton was beyond a great hero; his Russianness most appealing and I quite admired the grit that Mia had. I love that they both had strong morals and wanted to wait until Mia was no longer a married woman before acting on their very strong attraction.
This is the first book in a series and as Anton has a twin brother who also plays hockey…….
Quick update - next book is not about Anton's brother but a team member and I've already pre-ordered it.
February 7, 2019
3.5-4 Anton & Mia Stars
Brenda Rothert is the author that got me hooked onto Ice Hockey Player romances & I was really looking forward to this book. And the I saw the cover and I was REALLY looking forward to this book.
Anton (31) has been in love with Mia (29) for years but she was married to his team mate ( Anton & he were not friends). Now that marriage has fallen apart and Anton & Mia meet up unexpectedly and there is definite chemistry but Mia is still technically married & both of them honour that by not being physical with each other until the divorce is complete.
Anton is an interesting hero. Sportsmen in novels are often portrayed as ‘manwhores’ but Anton has been celibate since laying eyes on Mia , even though at that point he assumed she was happily married despite the fact her husband screwed anything with a pulse when the team were in away games. I found the fact he had been with nobody in that time a little bit strange but it fitted the intensity of his character. He’s very focused & driven. Mia is a strong , resilient woman and I loved how she strived to make the best of things even when circumstances were really challenging. Scenes with her Grandpa who had Alzheimer’s were very well written & made me cry.
This book sets up the rest of the series well & introduces lots of characters that I want to hear more about.
The reason that I didn’t give a higher rating was because of some of the things one of the secondary characters said about Mia. He is Anton’s elderly uncle by proxy and he’s had two strokes , so maybe has no filter, but he makes some unpleasant comments that felt uncomfortable to me. To be fair , Mia gets her own back spectacularly well and the two become friends of sorts but , yeah , it just felt a bit off. But that’s my personal feeling.
HEA? Yes
Cheating? No
Triggers? Domestic abuse (on page) , violence , character with Alzheimer’s (on page)
Brenda Rothert is the author that got me hooked onto Ice Hockey Player romances & I was really looking forward to this book. And the I saw the cover and I was REALLY looking forward to this book.
Anton (31) has been in love with Mia (29) for years but she was married to his team mate ( Anton & he were not friends). Now that marriage has fallen apart and Anton & Mia meet up unexpectedly and there is definite chemistry but Mia is still technically married & both of them honour that by not being physical with each other until the divorce is complete.
Anton is an interesting hero. Sportsmen in novels are often portrayed as ‘manwhores’ but Anton has been celibate since laying eyes on Mia , even though at that point he assumed she was happily married despite the fact her husband screwed anything with a pulse when the team were in away games. I found the fact he had been with nobody in that time a little bit strange but it fitted the intensity of his character. He’s very focused & driven. Mia is a strong , resilient woman and I loved how she strived to make the best of things even when circumstances were really challenging. Scenes with her Grandpa who had Alzheimer’s were very well written & made me cry.
This book sets up the rest of the series well & introduces lots of characters that I want to hear more about.
The reason that I didn’t give a higher rating was because of some of the things one of the secondary characters said about Mia. He is Anton’s elderly uncle by proxy and he’s had two strokes , so maybe has no filter, but he makes some unpleasant comments that felt uncomfortable to me. To be fair , Mia gets her own back spectacularly well and the two become friends of sorts but , yeah , it just felt a bit off. But that’s my personal feeling.
HEA? Yes
Cheating? No
Triggers? Domestic abuse (on page) , violence , character with Alzheimer’s (on page)
February 2, 2020
Anton Petrov is a dreamboat on ice. This uber lovable captain of the Chicago Blaze has long harbored a crush on a teammates wife and for two years has remained steadfastly loyal to her, she just doesn't know it. Heck no one can know because its just not the kind of thing an honorable man like him wants anyone finding out. It's not until he discovers the object of his affections, Mia, is working at a bar after having left her abusive husband that Anton fesses up. And thus begins this slow-burn love story between Anton and Mia Marceau.
As if the juxtaposition between Anton kindness and the her cheating husband Adam wasn't enough, Anton captures her heart by the sheer force of his being. Mia's spent too long being beaten down by Adam and has some recovery to do, but she follows her instincts and allows Anton in. The pace of the story was perfect and Rothert develops a compelling case for Mia to fall in love with Anton. He's the polar opposite of her husband Adam, he's generous and kind and as the friendship between them develops Anton shows how deep his need to protect Mia runs.
I loved the way that Anton and Mia came together and the bond they formed. The story is bolstered by a cast of secondary characters that help drive the connection between them; his uncle Dix who gives Anton the pretext to help Mia, her roommate Anita and her son Dre, and Anton's twin Alexei (whose story is forthcoming and I simply can't wait).
This is the first book by Brenda Rothert that I've read and with this one book I proudly call myself a fan. Yowza, she clearly she knows how to pick a cover is this is one of my favorite this year. I highly recommend this gem of a hockey romance read.
*I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
As if the juxtaposition between Anton kindness and the her cheating husband Adam wasn't enough, Anton captures her heart by the sheer force of his being. Mia's spent too long being beaten down by Adam and has some recovery to do, but she follows her instincts and allows Anton in. The pace of the story was perfect and Rothert develops a compelling case for Mia to fall in love with Anton. He's the polar opposite of her husband Adam, he's generous and kind and as the friendship between them develops Anton shows how deep his need to protect Mia runs.
I loved the way that Anton and Mia came together and the bond they formed. The story is bolstered by a cast of secondary characters that help drive the connection between them; his uncle Dix who gives Anton the pretext to help Mia, her roommate Anita and her son Dre, and Anton's twin Alexei (whose story is forthcoming and I simply can't wait).
This is the first book by Brenda Rothert that I've read and with this one book I proudly call myself a fan. Yowza, she clearly she knows how to pick a cover is this is one of my favorite this year. I highly recommend this gem of a hockey romance read.
*I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
January 31, 2019
5 star Review Anton (Chicago Blaze #1) by Brenda Rothert
I have a new book boyfriend and his name is Anton. This was one of the best books I have read from Brenda Rothert and that is saying something as I love her writing style.
Anton Petrov is the captain of the NHL’s Chicago Blaze has a reputation for being rather aloof and a little brooding. Little do people know that he has been in love with a team mates’ wife for several years. However being a man of integrity, he has made no moves or indicated his feelings; he remains alone.
Mia Marceau is finally away from her bullying soon to be ex husband Adam who is a player for the Chicago Blaze. I admit right here that I wanted to deck Adam and call him out on his hideous behaviour towards Mia.
I really loved Mia, a woman who has cowered in the past but who with the love of a good man and the building up of her shattered confidence emerges to take on the world.
This was at times an emotional roller coaster of a read as Anton and Mia fought the rocky path towards their happily ever after. The secondary characters were fabulous and I adored Uncle Dix, a man who I bet got up to a lot of mischief in his younger days.
I laughed, I cried but throughout it all I loved Mia and Anton, both separately and together. I was anxious that they would get the chance together that they both so richly deserved.
Not going to say anymore other than do yourselves a favour and one click this one on release. You won’t be disappointed and I cannot wait to read more in this series.
I have a new book boyfriend and his name is Anton. This was one of the best books I have read from Brenda Rothert and that is saying something as I love her writing style.
Anton Petrov is the captain of the NHL’s Chicago Blaze has a reputation for being rather aloof and a little brooding. Little do people know that he has been in love with a team mates’ wife for several years. However being a man of integrity, he has made no moves or indicated his feelings; he remains alone.
Mia Marceau is finally away from her bullying soon to be ex husband Adam who is a player for the Chicago Blaze. I admit right here that I wanted to deck Adam and call him out on his hideous behaviour towards Mia.
I really loved Mia, a woman who has cowered in the past but who with the love of a good man and the building up of her shattered confidence emerges to take on the world.
This was at times an emotional roller coaster of a read as Anton and Mia fought the rocky path towards their happily ever after. The secondary characters were fabulous and I adored Uncle Dix, a man who I bet got up to a lot of mischief in his younger days.
I laughed, I cried but throughout it all I loved Mia and Anton, both separately and together. I was anxious that they would get the chance together that they both so richly deserved.
Not going to say anymore other than do yourselves a favour and one click this one on release. You won’t be disappointed and I cannot wait to read more in this series.
February 24, 2019
This is a new series by Brenda Rothert and DAMN did she start it off with a bang! I mean I was like WTF did I just read after I finished this story. I wish I had me an Anton because the love he has for Mia is true love that does not die but grows each day for the person and that person will do anything to keep that love.
Anton is the Captain of The NHL Chicago Blaze team and he is known as the celibate one because he is not a man whore like most of the guys and he does not have a wife or girlfriend. He stays focused on his team and playing and secretly he is in love with his teammates wife and will do anything to have her.
When his teammate and his wife separate Anton takes his chance and tells Mia how he really feels about her and how he would love to take care of her and treat her how she should be treated. But Mia is scared of her soon to be ex husband because he has made threats and he is a mean man that will stop at nothing to hurt her and the ones she loves. But she is tired of being scared and living in the shadows and decides to give Anton and shot and what comes out of this story is something phenomenal and amazing and it makes it a must read and a one click for all you romance sports readers!
Anton is the Captain of The NHL Chicago Blaze team and he is known as the celibate one because he is not a man whore like most of the guys and he does not have a wife or girlfriend. He stays focused on his team and playing and secretly he is in love with his teammates wife and will do anything to have her.
When his teammate and his wife separate Anton takes his chance and tells Mia how he really feels about her and how he would love to take care of her and treat her how she should be treated. But Mia is scared of her soon to be ex husband because he has made threats and he is a mean man that will stop at nothing to hurt her and the ones she loves. But she is tired of being scared and living in the shadows and decides to give Anton and shot and what comes out of this story is something phenomenal and amazing and it makes it a must read and a one click for all you romance sports readers!
January 26, 2019
This is a very emotional book. Anton is such an honorable man who is reliable and caring. I admired him that even though he fell in love with his team player’s wife Mia, he wouldn’t do anything about it unless she was divorced. I hated how Mia’s husband Adam emotionally abused her. She is really a strong woman who has gone through a lot, but believed the horrible things her husband said about her. I loved how Anton kept trying to help and take care of Mia as a friend. He was good at thinking out of the box on how to help her financially. I loved his Uncle Dix that was such a character that Anton couldn’t keep a nurse around to help him. I loved how Mia went about gaining his respect. Mia’s husband Adam was not a good person at all. I can’t tell you how many times I wanted to beat him up! I loved the book, and strongly encourage you to read the book. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book.
August 11, 2019
Wow I really liked this book! I flew through it and kept reading until I couldn't keep my eyes open and passed out lol. It just had a different story line than I was expecting and I got so invested in Mia and Anton and their relationship. There was hard parts where I felt so bad for Mia and I was proud that she is a strong woman, but really happy that Anton wanted to be there for her. The relationships really made this book for me not only Anton and Mia but also Uncle Dix and Anita too. Some of the characters I think will get their own books and I am so excited to read them!
April 12, 2022
Hottest cover photo ever!!!! Anton was magnificent!!! I am a sucker for a female character who truly is down on her luck and yet so determined to make it. Mia is truly struggling. Her husband is a NHL player but she left him and he emptied the bank accounts. He won't give her a divorce either.
Anton is smitten but has such self control that he's determined to wait for Mia. That seems unrealistic since he hadn't seen her much over years time but I'm willing to go along for Mia deserves an Anton.
Anton is smitten but has such self control that he's determined to wait for Mia. That seems unrealistic since he hadn't seen her much over years time but I'm willing to go along for Mia deserves an Anton.
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