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Redtails Hockey #7
The Machine
He’s cool as ice and hot AF
Jake Mozik has fought his way back from a possible career-ending injury and has returned to the Redtails focused and ready to reclaim his former glory as half of the best defensive duo in the league. But his attraction to the fierce Faith is unexpected and distracting.
Faith doesn’t usually fall for overly confident, uber sexy jocks. But when she does, apparently she falls pretty damn hard. Jake is so not her type. Or so she thinks. Until he shows up to volunteer at the alternative school where she works and she sees a different side of the normally cocky athlete. He’s kind and patient and— Damn it, she is not falling for this guy. She’s rebuilding her life after a near-fatal accident and there’s no room for a man.
Jake is determined to make room in Faith’s life. And once he sets his mind on something, he doesn’t let go until he gets what he wants. And he wants it all…
Jake Mozik has fought his way back from a possible career-ending injury and has returned to the Redtails focused and ready to reclaim his former glory as half of the best defensive duo in the league. But his attraction to the fierce Faith is unexpected and distracting.
Faith doesn’t usually fall for overly confident, uber sexy jocks. But when she does, apparently she falls pretty damn hard. Jake is so not her type. Or so she thinks. Until he shows up to volunteer at the alternative school where she works and she sees a different side of the normally cocky athlete. He’s kind and patient and— Damn it, she is not falling for this guy. She’s rebuilding her life after a near-fatal accident and there’s no room for a man.
Jake is determined to make room in Faith’s life. And once he sets his mind on something, he doesn’t let go until he gets what he wants. And he wants it all…
238 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 4, 2019
151 people are currently reading
258 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Julian
166 books1,058 followersStephanie Julian is a USA Today and New York Time best-selling author of contemporary and paranormal romance. She writes stories with sultry heat and sweet heart.
She is the author of the best-selling Salon Games and Indecent series. INVITE ME IN (previously published as BY PRIVATE INVITATION) was an RT Magazine Top Pick. AN INDECENT PROPOSITION was named by BookBub as one of the 20 Best Erotic Books.
Stephanie is happily married to a Springsteen fanatic and the mother of two hairy sons.
Find out why reviewers call Stephanie's stories "fascinating," "truly fantastic," "intoxicating," "highly imaginative" and "hot enough to peel paint."
She is the author of the best-selling Salon Games and Indecent series. INVITE ME IN (previously published as BY PRIVATE INVITATION) was an RT Magazine Top Pick. AN INDECENT PROPOSITION was named by BookBub as one of the 20 Best Erotic Books.
Stephanie is happily married to a Springsteen fanatic and the mother of two hairy sons.
Find out why reviewers call Stephanie's stories "fascinating," "truly fantastic," "intoxicating," "highly imaginative" and "hot enough to peel paint."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
April 13, 2019
-Kacie, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I wasn’t quite sure what to think about The Machine. I dived into the story thinking it was about football. The blurb wasn’t too clear that it was a hockey romance and I assumed it was about football. But other than that small misunderstanding, I throughly enjoyed the storyline.
Jake Mozik and Faith Donovan know each other in passing. They have the same group of friends and they shared months of therapy sessions together. He was injured during a hockey game that sidelined him for several months while she fought her way to walk again. They are both strong and persistent individuals. Persistence comes in handy for Jake in order to win Faith over.
This was my first book by Stephanie Julian. A few times throughout the story, I felt a little lost. Like I was missing something. I’m hoping if I read from the beginning of the series that I won’t feel lost. Over all, I thought it was a great book and I’ll definitely be checking out the rest of this series.
I wasn’t quite sure what to think about The Machine. I dived into the story thinking it was about football. The blurb wasn’t too clear that it was a hockey romance and I assumed it was about football. But other than that small misunderstanding, I throughly enjoyed the storyline.
Jake Mozik and Faith Donovan know each other in passing. They have the same group of friends and they shared months of therapy sessions together. He was injured during a hockey game that sidelined him for several months while she fought her way to walk again. They are both strong and persistent individuals. Persistence comes in handy for Jake in order to win Faith over.
This was my first book by Stephanie Julian. A few times throughout the story, I felt a little lost. Like I was missing something. I’m hoping if I read from the beginning of the series that I won’t feel lost. Over all, I thought it was a great book and I’ll definitely be checking out the rest of this series.
April 8, 2019
I received a review copy of the book before release for an honest review.
This is book 7 in the series and I am a newbie to this author and series and I really loved the story. This is the story about Jake and Faith. Both are very strong characters and have persevered and they really like and respect each other.
Faith was injured in a car accident and fiancée dumped her because of her injury. She was told she could never walk again but she has worked very hard to make that happen. She even lost her job and now she has a new job working at a school for special needs kids.
Jake meets Faith in Physical Therapy, they share friends in common but never really got to know each other. He is in therapy for a hockey injury and he gets all better and after that he finds that he wants to get to know Faith.
And this is them getting to know each other while sharing friends and falling love and trying to make it work. The big issue in this story is that Jake is on a minor hockey team, he expects to get called to the majors and Faith is very much a homebody, she fears what happens when he gets called up if she falls for him.
I loved the writing and I loved these two characters so much. This is a story with a lot of love and heart and I hope to read the other books in the series.
This is book 7 in the series and I am a newbie to this author and series and I really loved the story. This is the story about Jake and Faith. Both are very strong characters and have persevered and they really like and respect each other.
Faith was injured in a car accident and fiancée dumped her because of her injury. She was told she could never walk again but she has worked very hard to make that happen. She even lost her job and now she has a new job working at a school for special needs kids.
Jake meets Faith in Physical Therapy, they share friends in common but never really got to know each other. He is in therapy for a hockey injury and he gets all better and after that he finds that he wants to get to know Faith.
And this is them getting to know each other while sharing friends and falling love and trying to make it work. The big issue in this story is that Jake is on a minor hockey team, he expects to get called to the majors and Faith is very much a homebody, she fears what happens when he gets called up if she falls for him.
I loved the writing and I loved these two characters so much. This is a story with a lot of love and heart and I hope to read the other books in the series.
April 4, 2019
I know I’m quite a bit late when it comes to Stephanie Julian’s Redtails Hockey series since this is my first read and it’s the 7th story, but I’m a huge fan of sports romance, so I thought I’d take a chance and check out the newest release in the series, The Machine.
And I’m happy to say that I didn’t feel at all lost in reading Jake Mozik and Faith Donovan’s story, and I’m sure that part of the reason I didn’t find it difficult to start so far into the series is because there’s not much ice time in The Machine; Jake Mozik is rehabbing after suffering a near career-ending injury, prohibiting him from returning to the Redtails until he gets the all clear from the team doctor and the person in charge of his physical therapy.
Many people, including the heroine, Faith Donovan, see Jake as an arrogant jock, but he’s more than people’s first impression of him, and that becomes clear when Jake and Faith start spending time together and it’s during those initial moments that readers see who Jake truly is and what he’s willing to do, not just to get back on the ice, but also to prove to Faith that he’s work the risk.
I like that Stephanie Julian establishes a foundation between Jake and Faith, even if it’s just seeing one another in passing, before they become friends and Jake works on standing permanently by Faith’s side.
Faith’s a fighter, and it’s her strength, her dedication, and her never give up attitude that allows her to beat the odds when it her doctors told her that she would never walk again after a horrific car accident. And I feel that Jake and Faith’s stubbornness is something that bonds them together, helping to make all of the work they have both done to recover from their injuries a defining moment in their lives.
Determination and courage are two characteristics that Jake and Faith have in common, and Jake builds upon that as he works his way into Faith’s life and into her heart, and while any kind of intimacy between them is built up to, their connection is solidified the moment Faith realizes who Jake is beneath his cocky athlete demeanor, proving there are just as many layers of his personalty as there are for her.
I definitely enjoyed my first Stephanie Julian sports romance, and I can’t wait to meet more of the Redtails’ players.
4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
And I’m happy to say that I didn’t feel at all lost in reading Jake Mozik and Faith Donovan’s story, and I’m sure that part of the reason I didn’t find it difficult to start so far into the series is because there’s not much ice time in The Machine; Jake Mozik is rehabbing after suffering a near career-ending injury, prohibiting him from returning to the Redtails until he gets the all clear from the team doctor and the person in charge of his physical therapy.
Many people, including the heroine, Faith Donovan, see Jake as an arrogant jock, but he’s more than people’s first impression of him, and that becomes clear when Jake and Faith start spending time together and it’s during those initial moments that readers see who Jake truly is and what he’s willing to do, not just to get back on the ice, but also to prove to Faith that he’s work the risk.
I like that Stephanie Julian establishes a foundation between Jake and Faith, even if it’s just seeing one another in passing, before they become friends and Jake works on standing permanently by Faith’s side.
Faith’s a fighter, and it’s her strength, her dedication, and her never give up attitude that allows her to beat the odds when it her doctors told her that she would never walk again after a horrific car accident. And I feel that Jake and Faith’s stubbornness is something that bonds them together, helping to make all of the work they have both done to recover from their injuries a defining moment in their lives.
Determination and courage are two characteristics that Jake and Faith have in common, and Jake builds upon that as he works his way into Faith’s life and into her heart, and while any kind of intimacy between them is built up to, their connection is solidified the moment Faith realizes who Jake is beneath his cocky athlete demeanor, proving there are just as many layers of his personalty as there are for her.
I definitely enjoyed my first Stephanie Julian sports romance, and I can’t wait to meet more of the Redtails’ players.
4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
April 4, 2019
The Machine by Stephanie Julian is a sexy romance between two recovering from injuries. Jake, star defenceman for the Redtails, who suffered a possible career ending injury and Faith who was in a near-fatal car accident. I loved the slow burn romance these two took us, the reader, on. Faith and Jake took us on amazing journey of healing and falling for each other. My only issue is I found the story ended a little abrupt but overall The Machine was a great addition to Redtails series.
March 30, 2019
Ms. Julian has proven time and again she knows how to do sexy, however I found The Machine to be all heart. Jake and Faith pull readers into an alluring tale of courage, heartache and determination. To be the best, we have to face the worst. At their best this couple is intriguing, at their worst their message is powerful.
April 4, 2019
From the first page to the last readers will find themselves charmed by this romance of two strong-willed people trying to overcome past injuries to their bodies and souls to find a HEA. In a tale of preconceived notions, low self-esteem, and putting the past behind you to make a future readers willl be quickly captivated by the no-nonsense hero and the flawed heroine who longs to find a man worthy of her trust.
Jakub (Jake) Mozik has always appeared a bit standoffish, a bit of a jerk, a man who’s always in control...at least that’s how Faith always saw him. When an injury on the ice leads to a lengthy period of recovery though Faith starts to see him in a whole different light that has these acquaintances becoming something more. Jake was the highlight of this story for me. He at first WAS a jerk, a man devoted only to his career as success means bringing his mother and disabled brother to the States for a better life. He was “The Machine” as he was focused on hockey, and recovery, to the exclusion of living a full and happy life. Making connections, finding love, were only distractions and when it came to women he made sure they knew that he only wanted them for one night. A moment of compassion towards Faith is the start of something bigger as he can no longer ignore how much she’s coming to mean to him in his slow and steady journey to win her trust. Jake’s definitely no player as he means what he says and says what he means. He’s forthright and doesn’t sugarcoat things which endeared him to me as did his vividly depicted Czech accent. He was charming with a heart of gold and the more we learn about him the sexier he became.
Faith Donovan’s a strong-willed heroine who refused to accept the dire diagnosis of permanent paralysis from a recent accident. She’s come a long way in the recovery of her body, defying the odds to be left with only a limp and occasional pain, but when it comes to her heart she still has a long way to go. Being left at the altar during her recovery was a blow to her self-esteem at a time when she needed unconditional support and it’s left her questioning everyone and everything. When she first sees Jake she’s instantly attracted to him and in awe of his strength, though she also thinks he’s a jerk for being so quiet and controlled. Seeing him at therapy has her discovering another side to him that has her wanting to take a chance if she can just work past her fears and doubts of not being good enough. Faith’s a likable heroine with an equally likable group of girlfriends who are there whenever a venting session is needed. For Faith, there’s a lot weighing on her lately with her attraction to Jake and difficulties at her job at a school for the disabled. Add in her self-doubts and you end up with a heroine whose journey to HEA will be a rocky one as she’s quick to assume the worse when it comes to Jake’s feelings for her.
On a whole I found this an entertaining journey to HEA, a nicely-balanced tale of action on the ice and off. Faith’s an admirable heroine in many ways, and though I was sometimes frustrated by her negative perceptions, I could certainly understand her self-doubts after the pain her ex brought her. When it comes to Jake though he’s near-perfect! He’s honest and willing to do whatever it takes to win Faith’s heart as he’s just been waiting for the right woman. Together they’re an endearing couple with scorching encounters and heartwarming and flirty banter. Ms. Julian gave ample time for them to get to know each other, time that put their hearts and souls on the line. Learning more about them as the story progressed had me even more invested in their HEA and I was rooting for them every step of the way. Surrounding this appealing main couple was an equally likable cast of secondary characters, some whose stories have been already told to new characters that left their mark. From Faith’s girlfriends to Jake’s teammates there’s lots of support for the main couple, lots of friendships that made this story even stronger. By the turn of the final page I’m left satisfied and ready for wherever Ms. Julian takes us next.
Jakub (Jake) Mozik has always appeared a bit standoffish, a bit of a jerk, a man who’s always in control...at least that’s how Faith always saw him. When an injury on the ice leads to a lengthy period of recovery though Faith starts to see him in a whole different light that has these acquaintances becoming something more. Jake was the highlight of this story for me. He at first WAS a jerk, a man devoted only to his career as success means bringing his mother and disabled brother to the States for a better life. He was “The Machine” as he was focused on hockey, and recovery, to the exclusion of living a full and happy life. Making connections, finding love, were only distractions and when it came to women he made sure they knew that he only wanted them for one night. A moment of compassion towards Faith is the start of something bigger as he can no longer ignore how much she’s coming to mean to him in his slow and steady journey to win her trust. Jake’s definitely no player as he means what he says and says what he means. He’s forthright and doesn’t sugarcoat things which endeared him to me as did his vividly depicted Czech accent. He was charming with a heart of gold and the more we learn about him the sexier he became.
Faith Donovan’s a strong-willed heroine who refused to accept the dire diagnosis of permanent paralysis from a recent accident. She’s come a long way in the recovery of her body, defying the odds to be left with only a limp and occasional pain, but when it comes to her heart she still has a long way to go. Being left at the altar during her recovery was a blow to her self-esteem at a time when she needed unconditional support and it’s left her questioning everyone and everything. When she first sees Jake she’s instantly attracted to him and in awe of his strength, though she also thinks he’s a jerk for being so quiet and controlled. Seeing him at therapy has her discovering another side to him that has her wanting to take a chance if she can just work past her fears and doubts of not being good enough. Faith’s a likable heroine with an equally likable group of girlfriends who are there whenever a venting session is needed. For Faith, there’s a lot weighing on her lately with her attraction to Jake and difficulties at her job at a school for the disabled. Add in her self-doubts and you end up with a heroine whose journey to HEA will be a rocky one as she’s quick to assume the worse when it comes to Jake’s feelings for her.
On a whole I found this an entertaining journey to HEA, a nicely-balanced tale of action on the ice and off. Faith’s an admirable heroine in many ways, and though I was sometimes frustrated by her negative perceptions, I could certainly understand her self-doubts after the pain her ex brought her. When it comes to Jake though he’s near-perfect! He’s honest and willing to do whatever it takes to win Faith’s heart as he’s just been waiting for the right woman. Together they’re an endearing couple with scorching encounters and heartwarming and flirty banter. Ms. Julian gave ample time for them to get to know each other, time that put their hearts and souls on the line. Learning more about them as the story progressed had me even more invested in their HEA and I was rooting for them every step of the way. Surrounding this appealing main couple was an equally likable cast of secondary characters, some whose stories have been already told to new characters that left their mark. From Faith’s girlfriends to Jake’s teammates there’s lots of support for the main couple, lots of friendships that made this story even stronger. By the turn of the final page I’m left satisfied and ready for wherever Ms. Julian takes us next.
April 4, 2019
Interesting characters plus heat and humor
Redtails Hockey book 7, I’m relatively late to the party regarding this series as I’ve read the previous two stories but haven’t had a chance to go back and pick up any of the earlier books yet (but they are definitely on my TBR). There were a couple of glimpses of Jake in book 7; he had me intrigued there so I was happy to get more more of his story here. While I thought this worked well as a standalone, I did wonder if there was more background on Faith’s accident in one of the earlier books.
I really liked both of these characters; I always like when authors give their main characters something to build their relationship on, besides just the chemistry Jake and Faith have in abundance. These two both not only require physical therapy (if for very different reasons), but they actual have their therapy at the same time so they can clearly see what the other is going through. It was a nice touch that really helped set the stage for their relationship, and I enjoyed watching that relationship develop, especially the back and forth banter. Of course there are a few bumps along the way, as some issues need to be worked through.
While there are a few appearances by secondary characters that I’m sure fans of the series will enjoy, the majority of the story is spent on Faith and Jake. Wondering when and if either of them will be forced to move because of job requirements—Jake either getting called up or traded, while Faith’s job is at risk due to budget constraints— adds some tension to the story and help keeps things moving. The only quibble I have is the ending felt a bit abrupt but it was pretty minor over all.
Interesting characters plus heat and humor made this another great story from this author. 4 stars
B2B Kelly
Redtails Hockey book 7, I’m relatively late to the party regarding this series as I’ve read the previous two stories but haven’t had a chance to go back and pick up any of the earlier books yet (but they are definitely on my TBR). There were a couple of glimpses of Jake in book 7; he had me intrigued there so I was happy to get more more of his story here. While I thought this worked well as a standalone, I did wonder if there was more background on Faith’s accident in one of the earlier books.
I really liked both of these characters; I always like when authors give their main characters something to build their relationship on, besides just the chemistry Jake and Faith have in abundance. These two both not only require physical therapy (if for very different reasons), but they actual have their therapy at the same time so they can clearly see what the other is going through. It was a nice touch that really helped set the stage for their relationship, and I enjoyed watching that relationship develop, especially the back and forth banter. Of course there are a few bumps along the way, as some issues need to be worked through.
While there are a few appearances by secondary characters that I’m sure fans of the series will enjoy, the majority of the story is spent on Faith and Jake. Wondering when and if either of them will be forced to move because of job requirements—Jake either getting called up or traded, while Faith’s job is at risk due to budget constraints— adds some tension to the story and help keeps things moving. The only quibble I have is the ending felt a bit abrupt but it was pretty minor over all.
Interesting characters plus heat and humor made this another great story from this author. 4 stars
B2B Kelly
April 5, 2019
*3.5 stars*
I have never read anything by this author before but I do like a good sports themed romance so I thought I would give it a try. When I started into the book I realized that it was part of a series and that this book was one of the later books. That being said I felt that it could be read as a standalone although the relationships between the secondary characters did feel a bit like I was missing the connection and 'inside story' a bit. This didn't really affect the main story though although I did wonder what the story was often between the other couples - obviously theses are some of the earlier books in the Redtails series.
I enjoyed the story and found it to be quite true to real life in the issues and hardships that the main characters were facing. At first I thought that there was something wrong with the writing and then I came to realize that Jake had an accent and the author was writing this Czech accent into the dialogue!! Then I started to understand and relate to his way of 'speaking'!! Lol.
I somehow though found that there was a bit of spark or excitement that was missing from the story. It was a deep and touching that they both faced such personal and physical hardships and worked to overcome them. There was also the great work they both did with the school that she worked with. I thought this was great and it bonded the characters but somehow something was missing a bit. Overall though I thought that for a New Adult style story they dealt with their problems realistically and head on without a ton of drama.
The romance between theses two though was more of a slow burn but once it caught - look out! There were some serious sparks between them. I enjoyed the build up and was happy to see them work things out.
Reviewed on behalf of 3 Degrees of Fiction book blog.
I have never read anything by this author before but I do like a good sports themed romance so I thought I would give it a try. When I started into the book I realized that it was part of a series and that this book was one of the later books. That being said I felt that it could be read as a standalone although the relationships between the secondary characters did feel a bit like I was missing the connection and 'inside story' a bit. This didn't really affect the main story though although I did wonder what the story was often between the other couples - obviously theses are some of the earlier books in the Redtails series.
I enjoyed the story and found it to be quite true to real life in the issues and hardships that the main characters were facing. At first I thought that there was something wrong with the writing and then I came to realize that Jake had an accent and the author was writing this Czech accent into the dialogue!! Then I started to understand and relate to his way of 'speaking'!! Lol.
I somehow though found that there was a bit of spark or excitement that was missing from the story. It was a deep and touching that they both faced such personal and physical hardships and worked to overcome them. There was also the great work they both did with the school that she worked with. I thought this was great and it bonded the characters but somehow something was missing a bit. Overall though I thought that for a New Adult style story they dealt with their problems realistically and head on without a ton of drama.
The romance between theses two though was more of a slow burn but once it caught - look out! There were some serious sparks between them. I enjoyed the build up and was happy to see them work things out.
Reviewed on behalf of 3 Degrees of Fiction book blog.
April 4, 2019
Jake Mozik has been 100% focused on his hockey career, and that means no messing around with relationships as he wants to make it back to his former level of play so he needs no distractions, especially since he wants to go even further in his career. However, when he suffers a potential career ending injury, he's determined that he's not going out like that, so he fought his way back to the Redtails, but while he was rehabbing, he was there at the same time as Faith. She was coming back from an accident that tried to keep her from ever walking again, and while she was watching the hot hockey player, she had no idea that he was watching her as well. Then, he comes to volunteer at the alternative school that she works at, and she sees a new side of him, and it's even harder for her to resist him, especially since he's now determined to make her his. This story was entertaining, as Jake was a different breed of alpha male, because he was so matter of fact, which had me laughing more than once. Their chemistry was definitely on point, so the sexy times were HOT! And with the extent of the injuries, and question of careers, there was the whole angst factor involved, especially with Faith's past relationship demons. Add in the secondaries who give the story that humorous factor, well, it makes it another fun story in the series. However, the ending was a tad too rushed for me, which was my only complaint. Anyway, I'm becoming addicted to the amazing Stephanie Julian's hockey players, and cannot wait for more! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
April 1, 2019
First impressions are not always what they seem, and Jake Mozik is nothing like what Faith initially perceived him to be. The moment they met at physical therapy she immediately saw him as a driven, arrogant jock, and didn't really give him the chance to prove himself otherwise. He was hardened from the pain and loss caused by his injury, and didn't really act like he was open for conversation or making any new friends. So she kept her distance, and kept their encounters short and to the point.
That is until they run into one another again at one of his hockey games... there she finds a completely different man, one that is charming, has her knees weakening, and has her reconsidering her stance on dating.
From the very first page the Machine will grab your attention, and by the second or third, it will have stolen your heart too. This beautifully crafted, heart-squeezing tale packed a powerful punch, one that I am sure I'll be feeling for a while. As soon as I met Jake and Faith I knew they were gonna wreck me, and boy did they ever. As I took in the words, my heart hurt from the pain they endured, but it also rejoiced from the happiness they discovered too, it was such a wonderful story!! My favorite stories are always the ones that make you really feel the words, and Ms. Julian's story does that and much, much, more! Highly recommend this one, it' steamy, and SO good for the heart!!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
That is until they run into one another again at one of his hockey games... there she finds a completely different man, one that is charming, has her knees weakening, and has her reconsidering her stance on dating.
From the very first page the Machine will grab your attention, and by the second or third, it will have stolen your heart too. This beautifully crafted, heart-squeezing tale packed a powerful punch, one that I am sure I'll be feeling for a while. As soon as I met Jake and Faith I knew they were gonna wreck me, and boy did they ever. As I took in the words, my heart hurt from the pain they endured, but it also rejoiced from the happiness they discovered too, it was such a wonderful story!! My favorite stories are always the ones that make you really feel the words, and Ms. Julian's story does that and much, much, more! Highly recommend this one, it' steamy, and SO good for the heart!!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
April 5, 2019
I loved Jake and Faith’s story. That both are recovering from injuries: his is a near career ending injury and hers is a near fatal car crash. They have know each other for awhile, due to friends that are dating, and now because they rehab at the same time, same place.
Their entire relationships is a slow burn. They are attracted to each other, but have plans for their future that doesn’t involve the opposite gender (for a serious relationship). As they get to know each other, they both decide to have fun while it lasts, but have a clock set for the end. There a lot of sexy times between the two and when they both start seeing a different side to the other, feelings start changing.
Jake has me swooning from early on. Faith had me irritated at times because of how stubborn she was. The ending was a little rushed, but didn’t deter me from loving this book. I can’t wait for the next installment of this series.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.
Their entire relationships is a slow burn. They are attracted to each other, but have plans for their future that doesn’t involve the opposite gender (for a serious relationship). As they get to know each other, they both decide to have fun while it lasts, but have a clock set for the end. There a lot of sexy times between the two and when they both start seeing a different side to the other, feelings start changing.
Jake has me swooning from early on. Faith had me irritated at times because of how stubborn she was. The ending was a little rushed, but didn’t deter me from loving this book. I can’t wait for the next installment of this series.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.
April 4, 2019
Jake is a professional hockey player who is trying to rehab his leg after a near career ending injury. It isn’t only himself who is dependent on his success, so he is determined and focused to be back in his old playing form sooner rather than later.
After a car accident Faith was told that her paralysis would be permanent and that wasn’t the only loss she was dealt. With the help of physio therapy she was not about to just accept their diagnosis and is now able to walk.
They knew each other casually through mutual friends and attended therapy together but it was when they started spending time together that they really got to know each other. They both have strong, resilient personalities but because of her past Jake will need to be patient and understanding if he wants her to open up her heart and trust him. I have enjoyed this series and this book is no exception.
After a car accident Faith was told that her paralysis would be permanent and that wasn’t the only loss she was dealt. With the help of physio therapy she was not about to just accept their diagnosis and is now able to walk.
They knew each other casually through mutual friends and attended therapy together but it was when they started spending time together that they really got to know each other. They both have strong, resilient personalities but because of her past Jake will need to be patient and understanding if he wants her to open up her heart and trust him. I have enjoyed this series and this book is no exception.
March 31, 2019
Stephanie Julian is victorious with THE MACHINE, the seventh book in the Redtails Hockey series. Reading Redtails star, Jakub (Jake) Mozik, suffers a possible career-ending injury. While at therapy he is inspired by, Faith Donovan, who was recovering from a car crash that almost left her paralyzed. This contemporary sports romance is suitable for adult audiences.
Stephanie Julian does a fabulous job with her character development. She does a great job depicting Jake’s Czech accent. I like Jake. He initially comes off as being “a Machine,” solely focused on recovery, showing no emotion. As he opens to Faith, he becomes more personable. Faith is an inspirational character. After a car accident, she was told she would never walk again. Faith didn’t give up; she continues with therapy and once again walks. To add insult to injury, her fiancé stood her up at the altar.
I enjoyed the plot. It was skillfully executed. I like that Jake and Faith were acquaintances before they were in therapy together. They both respected each other before they began hanging out. They are both fighters. I appreciated how Faith’s job was relevant to the story. THE MACHINE is an excellent example of how your life could change in a minute, and your life plans derailed. I recommend this book to people that enjoy sports romances with perseverance. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
Stephanie Julian does a fabulous job with her character development. She does a great job depicting Jake’s Czech accent. I like Jake. He initially comes off as being “a Machine,” solely focused on recovery, showing no emotion. As he opens to Faith, he becomes more personable. Faith is an inspirational character. After a car accident, she was told she would never walk again. Faith didn’t give up; she continues with therapy and once again walks. To add insult to injury, her fiancé stood her up at the altar.
I enjoyed the plot. It was skillfully executed. I like that Jake and Faith were acquaintances before they were in therapy together. They both respected each other before they began hanging out. They are both fighters. I appreciated how Faith’s job was relevant to the story. THE MACHINE is an excellent example of how your life could change in a minute, and your life plans derailed. I recommend this book to people that enjoy sports romances with perseverance. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
April 2, 2019
"I am quite the fan of the Redtails Hockey series, and I really enjoyed Faith and Jake’s story. Faith’s story is simply heartbreaking. She is such a strong woman who fought and fought for herself and her health, only to be let down by the person who should have been there for her the most.
It has been a long and hard struggle to get to where she is now, and Jake has been there for part of her journey.
What I liked about Jake was that he was a no nonsense type of man. He said what he thought and how he felt. Nothing was sugar coated in any way. Any issues in their relationship fell squarely on Faith’s shoulders. I am not judging her in any way. She totally deserves to second guess any and every one’s motives after what happened to her.
There is a little on ice action in this book. Sure I wish there were more, but that wasn’t what this story was about. To me this story was based on letting go of the past and putting your trust in the future for whatever that ends up by being."
It has been a long and hard struggle to get to where she is now, and Jake has been there for part of her journey.
What I liked about Jake was that he was a no nonsense type of man. He said what he thought and how he felt. Nothing was sugar coated in any way. Any issues in their relationship fell squarely on Faith’s shoulders. I am not judging her in any way. She totally deserves to second guess any and every one’s motives after what happened to her.
There is a little on ice action in this book. Sure I wish there were more, but that wasn’t what this story was about. To me this story was based on letting go of the past and putting your trust in the future for whatever that ends up by being."
April 4, 2019
5 STAR Review by Jodi for Ruby Red Romance Review
This story was more than I bargained for. I loved Jake. I loved that he was so much more than the man Faith thought he was. Sure Jake could be seen as arrogant and closed off, but he was dealing with loss when Faith first met him. I love that these two were able to make it all work out. I loved that they had another opportunity to meet, where Faith got to see the man that Jake was.
I loved this story from beginning to end. I loved getting to know another one of Stephaine's amazing characters. Please check out this great story.
This story was more than I bargained for. I loved Jake. I loved that he was so much more than the man Faith thought he was. Sure Jake could be seen as arrogant and closed off, but he was dealing with loss when Faith first met him. I love that these two were able to make it all work out. I loved that they had another opportunity to meet, where Faith got to see the man that Jake was.
I loved this story from beginning to end. I loved getting to know another one of Stephaine's amazing characters. Please check out this great story.
April 1, 2019
Great hockey love story!
Meet Faith, injured in a car accident, doctors said she'd never walk again. In physical therapy, she works hard and eventually walks again. While in therapy, next to her is hockey player Jake, recovering from surgery, and working to get his leg back to where it was before he was injured. He dreams of playing in the NHL, and he will get there! But he can't have any distractions, and the girl, whom he knows through mutual friends, is just that. He admires her strength and determination, and he wants her.
Follow their story, read along as they try to face their fears, move on from their injuries, and outside influences. Great addition to this series! 5 hockey pucks for this one!
Meet Faith, injured in a car accident, doctors said she'd never walk again. In physical therapy, she works hard and eventually walks again. While in therapy, next to her is hockey player Jake, recovering from surgery, and working to get his leg back to where it was before he was injured. He dreams of playing in the NHL, and he will get there! But he can't have any distractions, and the girl, whom he knows through mutual friends, is just that. He admires her strength and determination, and he wants her.
Follow their story, read along as they try to face their fears, move on from their injuries, and outside influences. Great addition to this series! 5 hockey pucks for this one!
April 1, 2019
Jake and Faith meet in physical therepy after both being hurt. Jake has a nickname the Machine because he is so serious and pushes so hard. When they first start hanging out I didn't think Faith was gonna fight it so hard but she does and Jake wants her and he keeps pushing the fact that he isn't her ex. I liked that Jake helps Faith realize that she puts way to much into her mom and tries to help her step away for some freedom. In the end Faith was able to get out of her head and get what she wants.
April 3, 2019
Honestly I wasn't sure I liked Jake to begin with. He's was every straight forward and it came off as insensitive but I found that it was kind of just him. He didnt mean to be insensitive with hat he was saying he just didnt like to beat around the Bush. And Faith I loved her. So determined and hardheaded and kind of a smart ass. I loved it. These two together were their own kind of sweet.
March 26, 2019
Jake is very comfortable in his skin, “fine. You want to walk me out, I don’t have a problem with that.” Then she smacked her purse against his chest. “Maybe you can carry this for me while you’re at it.” He took the large, bright pink bag without a word. Carrying a purse didn't bother him... " Jake likes to make sure his girl knows he's thankful for certain things, “for wearing this bra. I appreciate the easy access.” I liked this book, I loved Jake.
April 12, 2019
My first book in the Redtails series was a really fun read. I loved Jake and Faith together and watching them strive to make their dreams come true and still hold onto each other throughout was very enjoyable. The characters were well developed, and the story line was really good, but the ending left a lot to be desired. It was very abrupt and we were left hanging on exactly what their future was going to hold, but overall a really good read!
Jake Mozik has just returned to hockey after an almost career ending injury, so he's happy to just be stepping back onto the ice again. There's no way he's going to let anything derail him from achieving the success that was at his fingertips just before it all slipped away with one dirty hit from an opposing team.
Faith has had her own pain to overcome when a near fatal accident left her fighting for her chance to ever walk again. A sexy jock isn't normally her type, but she's seen what a hard worker Jake has been at physical therapy for the last few months and she really has to admire him. When he shows up to volunteer at the school she works at, she starts to take him seriously ... and falling for him begins to happen!
Jake Mozik has just returned to hockey after an almost career ending injury, so he's happy to just be stepping back onto the ice again. There's no way he's going to let anything derail him from achieving the success that was at his fingertips just before it all slipped away with one dirty hit from an opposing team.
Faith has had her own pain to overcome when a near fatal accident left her fighting for her chance to ever walk again. A sexy jock isn't normally her type, but she's seen what a hard worker Jake has been at physical therapy for the last few months and she really has to admire him. When he shows up to volunteer at the school she works at, she starts to take him seriously ... and falling for him begins to happen!
April 11, 2019
The Machine, is the seventh addition to the Redtails Hockey series, but can easily be read as a standalone. This was my first read of the series, and although there is quite a cast of characters I never felt lost with the story line.
Jake and Faith’s story is a sexy, heartfelt romance of two endearing, courageous, and resilient individuals who have faced debilitating injuries.
I quite enjoyed Jake and Faith’s story and found them both to be complex, driven and determined and look forward to reading more of Stephanie Julian’s work in the future.
Jake and Faith’s story is a sexy, heartfelt romance of two endearing, courageous, and resilient individuals who have faced debilitating injuries.
I quite enjoyed Jake and Faith’s story and found them both to be complex, driven and determined and look forward to reading more of Stephanie Julian’s work in the future.
May 17, 2020
3 1/2 STARS! Book seven in the Redtails Hockey series. Can be read and enjoyed as stand-alone. Novella length told in dual POV with HEA. Each book is about a different hockey player and secondary characters are the same throughout the series. Jake and Faith both go to the same physical therapist and have the same friend group. Jake knew he wanted Faith and was patient with her reluctance to trust again. Sweet with a little bit of steam! I would have loved an epilogue!
January 19, 2021
Loved!!
I love Jake. I have since Bliss’ book when he became friends with her little brother who has developmental disabilities. He is amazing. And the slight language barrier with translations and his accent makes him adorable. Plus it slightly lessens his bossy demeanor because you know he is dominant but the clipped language makes you know he isn’t an ass. Love how he goes for what he wants.
I love Jake. I have since Bliss’ book when he became friends with her little brother who has developmental disabilities. He is amazing. And the slight language barrier with translations and his accent makes him adorable. Plus it slightly lessens his bossy demeanor because you know he is dominant but the clipped language makes you know he isn’t an ass. Love how he goes for what he wants.
April 8, 2019
A slow burning romance! Ashley @ Carolina Chic’s Read
Stephanie Julian does a great job with this slow burning romance of two injured people. Jake who is returning from a near career ending accident and Faith who was in a near fatal crash. These two are very proud people and take us on a journey of healing and falling for each other. The Machine is a great love story!
Stephanie Julian does a great job with this slow burning romance of two injured people. Jake who is returning from a near career ending accident and Faith who was in a near fatal crash. These two are very proud people and take us on a journey of healing and falling for each other. The Machine is a great love story!
May 3, 2020
I liked Jake a lot from Czech Republic. Liked his accent and that he was really interested in Faith and good with special needs children . There is always the complication in these stories about moving to the NHL and then what happens to relationships.
November 8, 2022
I typically enjoy hockey romances and took a chance on an author I'm not familiar with on this free read. Overall, the storyline and conflict were rather weak and I just did not feel the chemistry. It was ok, but a rather boring read. 1.5 - 2 stars.
November 25, 2022
good read
Good read and likeable characters although the female lead needed a kick up the kilt at tunes. The ex was a constant thorn and there was no real explanation as to why he left her. Ending was very abrupt but story overall as good.
Good read and likeable characters although the female lead needed a kick up the kilt at tunes. The ex was a constant thorn and there was no real explanation as to why he left her. Ending was very abrupt but story overall as good.
Want to read
October 15, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/15/2022)! 🎁
November 17, 2022
Interesting
So not my usual story! It was a good story the author had the broken English or English as a second language down. The story itself was well written.
So not my usual story! It was a good story the author had the broken English or English as a second language down. The story itself was well written.
November 26, 2022
Good
I think it would make a lot less than one. The only reason they were the best way around. So much
I think it would make a lot less than one. The only reason they were the best way around. So much
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