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Washington Guardians Hockey #1
Kissing Micky
It all started at the pool party. He was there, I was there, and our friends thought we’d be perfect for each other.
Not only is Tom McCullin a hockey player on my favorite team, he’s also a gorgeous, glove-dropping defenseman straight out of my wildest fantasies. He’s almost too good to be true.
His teammates call him Micky, but to me he’s Tom. And damn it all if the chemistry between us doesn’t wind up being amazing. Turns out we can’t keep our hands off each other, but it’s our secret. We’re not ready to share what we have with anyone else.
So, while our friends keep wondering why things aren’t happening between us, little do they know that I’m already…
Kissing Micky.
Not only is Tom McCullin a hockey player on my favorite team, he’s also a gorgeous, glove-dropping defenseman straight out of my wildest fantasies. He’s almost too good to be true.
His teammates call him Micky, but to me he’s Tom. And damn it all if the chemistry between us doesn’t wind up being amazing. Turns out we can’t keep our hands off each other, but it’s our secret. We’re not ready to share what we have with anyone else.
So, while our friends keep wondering why things aren’t happening between us, little do they know that I’m already…
Kissing Micky.
255 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 23, 2018
370 people are currently reading
371 people want to read
About the author
Ellen Devlin
2 books45 followersLaw firm office cog by day.
Writer of steamy romance by night.
Hockey fan all the time.
Ellen lives in the Northern Virginia area with her husband and two sons, along with various furry and scaly creatures.
She loves hockey (Let's Go Caps!), and humor, and steamy romance, and does her best to include all of the above in her writing.
Life is good.
Writer of steamy romance by night.
Hockey fan all the time.
Ellen lives in the Northern Virginia area with her husband and two sons, along with various furry and scaly creatures.
She loves hockey (Let's Go Caps!), and humor, and steamy romance, and does her best to include all of the above in her writing.
Life is good.
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May 12, 2021
R A T I N G: 2 stars to Kissing Micky ★ ★
Usually when I struggle with a story, it can be tricky sport to jump over, sort through and muscle through my feelings with the dexterity of a gymnast working through a series of apparatus. Sometimes it's easier, and it's at those times where i know precisely what tugged at the seams. While this falls to the latter, I'm still going to lay out my clear feelings for this confusing story as i step off a still-moving merry go round.
Predominantly, Kissing Micky is a hard following in terms of storytelling territory, but more than that, it's very easy to lose interest in both the story and the romance. This book definitely has that debut feel, which leads me to believe that this might be Ellen Devlin’s debut. It makes a good effort at characterisation; a love for hockey and levity, but it didn’t process excitingly for me. I have to, as always, splay those honesty cards and say that while meagre bites might have pressed just short upon the enjoyable mark, I didn't find much about this book to be an entertaining getaway.
I'm going to start with the choice of an omniscient narrator. While unusual for a romance (at least for me), I'm sure in many cases this all-seeing perspective might work, and it's a bold, impressive choice to make. Unfortunately, it doesn't pull flush with this sports romance. Apart from consistently feeling as if I were on the outskirts looking in (feeling a disconnect with every bit of content, situation, character behaviour or engagement), the scene reading, the storytelling and open narrative all coalesce into an uncomplimentary, divorcing mix. The bird's eye switches from character to character without a reader knowing which character thoughts we're channeling at that time. It wasn't easy to nestle myself into the story when I'm apparently not best friends with this narrative choice, especially when it pairs with a humdrum writing style.
The other part of that links to the actual storytelling. The mode and manner in which a story is written is really important to a reader's ability to connect and stay cemented with what they're reading. Integral stuff. Oddly, and unsuited, the writing style is a mismatched partner to the genre content. What we have here is a voice that reads almost like a YA or middle-grade novel with the content of a mature (very adult) read. This felt like a bizarre pairing, I've got it be honest. The unmoving writing style was perhaps the biggest reason for my disconnect as much it didn’t reflect well on the characters. They're just not that interesting.
Something I see a good number of readers making complaints about is the way of writers adopting the technique of telling us retrospectively more than they show us in real time. I've read my fair share of books that repeat this same pattern, and it does have its place, but I don't think I've seen multiple counts of this largely unproductive attribute play out as much as I've seen it done in Kissing Micky. At first, it's a case of skipping days, and then weeks at a time. Then months. The story does so much skimming and slimming down that 50% through, a whole year has elapsed, and through that year most of the relationship developments either belong to the 'behind the scenes' show or are enthusiastically bypassed quickly except for the effusive sexiness that plays out like an unending film.
Oddly enough, while this is a long book, each chapter extends that little bit longer than it should while surprisingly skimming so much until it always needles down to Tom and Liz's relationship and their forced relationship drama - which materialises from what feels like fresh air. Ultimately, what we have is a romance that's mostly made up of chronic sex, out-of-the-blue dramatic theatre, minimal emotional connection and communication and a story that subsequently comes off as really quite ineffective. A proper build up is amiss.
As far as the romance goes, aside from the steamy scenes, it's all very underwhelming and slim-bodied. Neither cares to get to know the other, especially our male lead. Neither wants to bring the behind-closed-doors romp into public space. To start with, it's all very fantasy in that they both want to keep the relationship private, for Liz it's because she believes fantasies are short-lived and aren't meant to trespass reality. For Tom, it's because he's unknowingly holding on to a relationship betrayal, and his issues soon start to take a toxic appearance. This is where things got worse for me…
Everything about Tom as a character is abrupt and bewildering, and actually, his transformation from Dr. Jekyll to Mr. Hyde repels more than it attracts. It becomes harder and harder to find reason in his rationale when his jealousy, aggression and control start to darken the 'fantasy'. It later becomes clear that he was projecting old feelings onto his present relationship with Liz. He seemed so selfish and self-possessed when everything goes down - I think it would have been ideal for him to have some anger management as opposed to Liz always rewarding/compensating his temper with sexual deeds while shouldering the emotional responsibility. It's clear who the emotionally mature one in this relationship is and I'm not assured that they meet each others' needs. Whatever the reason, his anger was off-putting (not the sort of angst I crave), and while alphas are my weak spot, he doesn't work it or wear it well. Tom does have character growth, but like other elements in this story, it comes off as more feigned for story sake than natural.
As to why they drifted apart..it still remains a minor mystery to me, but with an educated guess, I'm proposing that it's very much a projection of Tom's insecurity and maybe a bit to do with Liz's disbelief in the long game. While he shows remorse for his actions, he (along with their relationship) was still the equivalent of a burst tire. I don't understand why an 'i love you' becomes the instant road to 'you're forgiven’ or maybe it’s just a case of Liz, being the nice, forgiving person she is, decided to take another leap. I like Liz’s personality and perspective on life. Still, this isn't really a case of characters being redeemed or flawed or otherwise for me because I didn't fall into place with the characters enough to fret either way.
The bedroom scenes are well done but there are too many of them. I love a book that doesn't shy away from frisky fun, throw handfuls at me even and I'll enjoy them, but this book staples sex scene after sex scene (while glossing passed every other connection, as if locking body parts mattered most) until I thought that I may very well drown in them. I think it's great that these two are sexually matched and have an active sexual appetite for each other. While I love a hot and heated romance as much as the next reader, I also like love connections to be full-bodied and intimate in ways other than just the sexual.
This book takes on the opposites attract trope; Liz is a candid, extrovert, people-person tomboy and Tom is the highly strung, reserved and grumpy athlete. If they've got anything in common, it's that they love hockey. While Liz apparently gives Tom 'mood whiplash', the sportsman doesn't quite seem to know that he's also very adept at doing the same to a reader. I think the point and purpose of this story was to have Liz find an attainable fantasy man, and for this fulfillment to unravel as something more real and flawed and less perfectionist fulfillment, and while the idea of that has a romance reader's entire set of senses on alert and at attention, the fantasy man may have met his fantasy woman, but this wasn't the fantasy for me.
While this is a mash up of two of my fave tropes; an opposites attract and a pro athlete romance, this book and I really were out of synch. As always, and while this is just a launch of personal judgement, I urge you friends, bookish comrades, bookworms-in-arms to try kissing Micky because while I didn't enjoy it, it is very easy to get lost in his kisses. On that note, I take my leave, still wondering what our unabashed protagonist Liz Williams even does for a living because I still don’t know...
C O N T E N T_W A R N I NG: Mentions drug violations and a past heart attack. Adult content with swearing and multiple sex scenes.
------------------------------------------
Visit my blog for more reviews: V.L. Book Reviews
T W I T T E R: @VicariousHearts
I N S T A G R A M: @Vicarious.Hearts
------------------------------------------
Usually when I struggle with a story, it can be tricky sport to jump over, sort through and muscle through my feelings with the dexterity of a gymnast working through a series of apparatus. Sometimes it's easier, and it's at those times where i know precisely what tugged at the seams. While this falls to the latter, I'm still going to lay out my clear feelings for this confusing story as i step off a still-moving merry go round.
Predominantly, Kissing Micky is a hard following in terms of storytelling territory, but more than that, it's very easy to lose interest in both the story and the romance. This book definitely has that debut feel, which leads me to believe that this might be Ellen Devlin’s debut. It makes a good effort at characterisation; a love for hockey and levity, but it didn’t process excitingly for me. I have to, as always, splay those honesty cards and say that while meagre bites might have pressed just short upon the enjoyable mark, I didn't find much about this book to be an entertaining getaway.
I'm going to start with the choice of an omniscient narrator. While unusual for a romance (at least for me), I'm sure in many cases this all-seeing perspective might work, and it's a bold, impressive choice to make. Unfortunately, it doesn't pull flush with this sports romance. Apart from consistently feeling as if I were on the outskirts looking in (feeling a disconnect with every bit of content, situation, character behaviour or engagement), the scene reading, the storytelling and open narrative all coalesce into an uncomplimentary, divorcing mix. The bird's eye switches from character to character without a reader knowing which character thoughts we're channeling at that time. It wasn't easy to nestle myself into the story when I'm apparently not best friends with this narrative choice, especially when it pairs with a humdrum writing style.
The other part of that links to the actual storytelling. The mode and manner in which a story is written is really important to a reader's ability to connect and stay cemented with what they're reading. Integral stuff. Oddly, and unsuited, the writing style is a mismatched partner to the genre content. What we have here is a voice that reads almost like a YA or middle-grade novel with the content of a mature (very adult) read. This felt like a bizarre pairing, I've got it be honest. The unmoving writing style was perhaps the biggest reason for my disconnect as much it didn’t reflect well on the characters. They're just not that interesting.
Something I see a good number of readers making complaints about is the way of writers adopting the technique of telling us retrospectively more than they show us in real time. I've read my fair share of books that repeat this same pattern, and it does have its place, but I don't think I've seen multiple counts of this largely unproductive attribute play out as much as I've seen it done in Kissing Micky. At first, it's a case of skipping days, and then weeks at a time. Then months. The story does so much skimming and slimming down that 50% through, a whole year has elapsed, and through that year most of the relationship developments either belong to the 'behind the scenes' show or are enthusiastically bypassed quickly except for the effusive sexiness that plays out like an unending film.
Oddly enough, while this is a long book, each chapter extends that little bit longer than it should while surprisingly skimming so much until it always needles down to Tom and Liz's relationship and their forced relationship drama - which materialises from what feels like fresh air. Ultimately, what we have is a romance that's mostly made up of chronic sex, out-of-the-blue dramatic theatre, minimal emotional connection and communication and a story that subsequently comes off as really quite ineffective. A proper build up is amiss.
As far as the romance goes, aside from the steamy scenes, it's all very underwhelming and slim-bodied. Neither cares to get to know the other, especially our male lead. Neither wants to bring the behind-closed-doors romp into public space. To start with, it's all very fantasy in that they both want to keep the relationship private, for Liz it's because she believes fantasies are short-lived and aren't meant to trespass reality. For Tom, it's because he's unknowingly holding on to a relationship betrayal, and his issues soon start to take a toxic appearance. This is where things got worse for me…
Everything about Tom as a character is abrupt and bewildering, and actually, his transformation from Dr. Jekyll to Mr. Hyde repels more than it attracts. It becomes harder and harder to find reason in his rationale when his jealousy, aggression and control start to darken the 'fantasy'. It later becomes clear that he was projecting old feelings onto his present relationship with Liz. He seemed so selfish and self-possessed when everything goes down - I think it would have been ideal for him to have some anger management as opposed to Liz always rewarding/compensating his temper with sexual deeds while shouldering the emotional responsibility. It's clear who the emotionally mature one in this relationship is and I'm not assured that they meet each others' needs. Whatever the reason, his anger was off-putting (not the sort of angst I crave), and while alphas are my weak spot, he doesn't work it or wear it well. Tom does have character growth, but like other elements in this story, it comes off as more feigned for story sake than natural.
As to why they drifted apart..it still remains a minor mystery to me, but with an educated guess, I'm proposing that it's very much a projection of Tom's insecurity and maybe a bit to do with Liz's disbelief in the long game. While he shows remorse for his actions, he (along with their relationship) was still the equivalent of a burst tire. I don't understand why an 'i love you' becomes the instant road to 'you're forgiven’ or maybe it’s just a case of Liz, being the nice, forgiving person she is, decided to take another leap. I like Liz’s personality and perspective on life. Still, this isn't really a case of characters being redeemed or flawed or otherwise for me because I didn't fall into place with the characters enough to fret either way.
The bedroom scenes are well done but there are too many of them. I love a book that doesn't shy away from frisky fun, throw handfuls at me even and I'll enjoy them, but this book staples sex scene after sex scene (while glossing passed every other connection, as if locking body parts mattered most) until I thought that I may very well drown in them. I think it's great that these two are sexually matched and have an active sexual appetite for each other. While I love a hot and heated romance as much as the next reader, I also like love connections to be full-bodied and intimate in ways other than just the sexual.
This book takes on the opposites attract trope; Liz is a candid, extrovert, people-person tomboy and Tom is the highly strung, reserved and grumpy athlete. If they've got anything in common, it's that they love hockey. While Liz apparently gives Tom 'mood whiplash', the sportsman doesn't quite seem to know that he's also very adept at doing the same to a reader. I think the point and purpose of this story was to have Liz find an attainable fantasy man, and for this fulfillment to unravel as something more real and flawed and less perfectionist fulfillment, and while the idea of that has a romance reader's entire set of senses on alert and at attention, the fantasy man may have met his fantasy woman, but this wasn't the fantasy for me.
While this is a mash up of two of my fave tropes; an opposites attract and a pro athlete romance, this book and I really were out of synch. As always, and while this is just a launch of personal judgement, I urge you friends, bookish comrades, bookworms-in-arms to try kissing Micky because while I didn't enjoy it, it is very easy to get lost in his kisses. On that note, I take my leave, still wondering what our unabashed protagonist Liz Williams even does for a living because I still don’t know...
C O N T E N T_W A R N I NG: Mentions drug violations and a past heart attack. Adult content with swearing and multiple sex scenes.
------------------------------------------
Visit my blog for more reviews: V.L. Book Reviews
T W I T T E R: @VicariousHearts
I N S T A G R A M: @Vicarious.Hearts
------------------------------------------
May 7, 2018
Liz Williams isn't sure she wants to be setup but when she meets Tom "Micky" McCullin he is her walking fantasy in person. Tom thinks Liz is unique, he has never met a more down to earth woman and as they begin to explore a relationship it doesn't go as smoothly as either one hopes. Although they are crazy about each other Tom's past has him making a muck of things. Can they figure it out before it is too late.
This was delightful. I liked Liz a lot, she is kind of a humorous tomboy but all girl rolled into one. Tom you want to smack but you get why he is the way he is. I thought this was entertaining and had me laughing out loud throughout. The story reads like you are watching these two from afar. Great read.
This was delightful. I liked Liz a lot, she is kind of a humorous tomboy but all girl rolled into one. Tom you want to smack but you get why he is the way he is. I thought this was entertaining and had me laughing out loud throughout. The story reads like you are watching these two from afar. Great read.
April 7, 2019
I loved this book, oh and the character Micky was amazing, I've only read a few Sports Romances and mind you this book is a Hockey Romance, Micky was by far my favorite and my first ever Hockey Romance, would love to read more by this Author Ellen Devlin... *****5 STARS*****
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July 26, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/26/2019)! 🎁
March 25, 2019
Thank you next
To coin a phrase ... thoroughly enjoyed LIz and Tom/Micky’s story. After a horrible relations, Tom finds himself intrinsically intertwined with Liz who in a word put all of his exes to shame. LIz wasn’t without her insecurities and it’s was a good read to have them work through everything to get their HEA. So glad this is book one of a series. Can’t wait to see who’s up next.
To coin a phrase ... thoroughly enjoyed LIz and Tom/Micky’s story. After a horrible relations, Tom finds himself intrinsically intertwined with Liz who in a word put all of his exes to shame. LIz wasn’t without her insecurities and it’s was a good read to have them work through everything to get their HEA. So glad this is book one of a series. Can’t wait to see who’s up next.
March 20, 2019
Liz has an outgoing personality, generous, very witty and has a magical presence about her that calms other people. Since she has no living family she has created her own eclectic family. Liz is a big fan of hockey and some of her best friends are hockey players. One in particular. Fantasy on a stick. Not a girly type. She loves Avengers, beer and belching.
"... more happiness for them doesn't mean less for me. It's not like pie.."
When friends set Micky (aka Tom) and Liz up, sparks begin to fly.
€I have no idea what just happened, he thought, following her across the street. This whole evening had to be the strangest interaction with a woman he had ever had.€
Tom and Liz's relationship began as a secret until he turned into a douchebag with his jealousy and possessiveness.
Thankfully Tom's friends make him realize that his past is exactly the past. Will Liz be able to get past the hurt and trust Tom again?
Kissing Micky is a delightfully, delicious romantic comedy that will have you laughing out loud. It will grab you from the first page. I would definitely recommend this book! Great characters and fabulous storyline!
I can't wait to read more of the Guardians Series especially Zee, the prankster!
"... more happiness for them doesn't mean less for me. It's not like pie.."
When friends set Micky (aka Tom) and Liz up, sparks begin to fly.
€I have no idea what just happened, he thought, following her across the street. This whole evening had to be the strangest interaction with a woman he had ever had.€
Tom and Liz's relationship began as a secret until he turned into a douchebag with his jealousy and possessiveness.
Thankfully Tom's friends make him realize that his past is exactly the past. Will Liz be able to get past the hurt and trust Tom again?
Kissing Micky is a delightfully, delicious romantic comedy that will have you laughing out loud. It will grab you from the first page. I would definitely recommend this book! Great characters and fabulous storyline!
I can't wait to read more of the Guardians Series especially Zee, the prankster!
July 2, 2019
Just a treat
Absolutely one of the best I’ve read, and that covers some ground. The joy of watching a couple heal each other. One by being an intuitive optimist, who just gets people. The other just by being a solid, stand-up guy. And honest to a fault. Just an absolutely great read.
Absolutely one of the best I’ve read, and that covers some ground. The joy of watching a couple heal each other. One by being an intuitive optimist, who just gets people. The other just by being a solid, stand-up guy. And honest to a fault. Just an absolutely great read.
August 12, 2024
3.5 stars
Kissing Micky is book one of the Washington Guardians romance series.
This is an Ice-Hockey themed contemporary romance and features ice-hockey fan Liz and team player Tom. They first meet at a pre-season pool party and immediately feel a connection. While they start out as friends, the romance ramps up pretty quickly, but they keep it all a secret from friends and team mates.
While the first half of the book is filled with their romantic encounters the second half deals with deeper issues surrounding their relationship. I liked Liz and her ability to see situations in a different light was refreshing. I warmed to Tom rather slower because of his anger issues which were hard to accept. The relationship bordered on dominance and submission in places which I’m less keen on in this genre.
Kissing Micky is book one of the Washington Guardians romance series.
This is an Ice-Hockey themed contemporary romance and features ice-hockey fan Liz and team player Tom. They first meet at a pre-season pool party and immediately feel a connection. While they start out as friends, the romance ramps up pretty quickly, but they keep it all a secret from friends and team mates.
While the first half of the book is filled with their romantic encounters the second half deals with deeper issues surrounding their relationship. I liked Liz and her ability to see situations in a different light was refreshing. I warmed to Tom rather slower because of his anger issues which were hard to accept. The relationship bordered on dominance and submission in places which I’m less keen on in this genre.
March 28, 2019
Liz is a woman after my own heart, as she's not a girly girl, and feels about hockey like I do about football, loves superheros (mostly Avengers), beer & belching. Her friends decide to set her up with Tom, aka Micky, and they have crazy chemistry. Like the kind that sets whatever they're near on fire during sexy times, but they're doing it all on the down-low. There's a lot of fun & laughs as Liz is hilarious, so I'm laughing hard as well. It goes well for a while, until his demons start to take over, and he starts turning into a douche. Luckily for him & me, he's got some friends who are willing to set him straight, because if it were left up to me?! I would totally junk punch him over & over again, as I'm not down with the Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde routine at all. It took me a bit to really get into this story, but once I hit a certain point, it was like I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough. I find myself stoked to read more about Ellen Devlin's Washington Guardians Hockey Series. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
April 27, 2018
Liz Williams is the life of the party and everyone's friend, but one look into Micky's eyes and she quickly becomes befuddled.
Tom McCullin has never met a woman quite like Liz and getting to know her better is item one on his is list of things to do.
Their friendship was destined to be right from the start but as their relationship deeps the past starts muddy up the waters. Can they find a way to move past their issues before it's too late? Or will miscommunications and misunderstanding be too hard of a road block to overcome?
Kissing Micky is a fun, witty, captivating story that grips the readers attention from the first page until the incredible end.
I really love Liz (and not just because of her name 😉) with her feisty, no holds barred attitude. He ability to speak her mind no matter what is refreshing and endearing. She could have easily let her past change her but instead she embraced it and thusly made her stronger. She's open, honest, loyal, witty, and down to earth making her just the type of person you want standing next to you in good times and bad.
Tom, aka Micky, has got the looks to make women stop in their tracks and drool, but if you look past the handsome exterior you'll discover a man that is worth swooning over. Sure he can go all caveman and possessive sometimes, but he really is just a teddy bear that would move heaven and earth for the people he loves.
I really enjoyed getting to know Liz and Tom and watching them fall in love, build a long last friendship, and helping each other work through their issues. Their connection is electric right from the start, and when the sparks ignites, the flames fly right off the pages. Talk about some heat!
Overall, with its entertaining storyline, incredible heroine, drool worthy hero, and intense passion, this make a perfect combination for a very pleasurable read. I honestly believe once you start Kissing Micky, you won't want to stop.
Or maybe you will so you can find your own Micky to kiss and kiss and kiss some more. 💋
Tom McCullin has never met a woman quite like Liz and getting to know her better is item one on his is list of things to do.
Their friendship was destined to be right from the start but as their relationship deeps the past starts muddy up the waters. Can they find a way to move past their issues before it's too late? Or will miscommunications and misunderstanding be too hard of a road block to overcome?
Kissing Micky is a fun, witty, captivating story that grips the readers attention from the first page until the incredible end.
I really love Liz (and not just because of her name 😉) with her feisty, no holds barred attitude. He ability to speak her mind no matter what is refreshing and endearing. She could have easily let her past change her but instead she embraced it and thusly made her stronger. She's open, honest, loyal, witty, and down to earth making her just the type of person you want standing next to you in good times and bad.
Tom, aka Micky, has got the looks to make women stop in their tracks and drool, but if you look past the handsome exterior you'll discover a man that is worth swooning over. Sure he can go all caveman and possessive sometimes, but he really is just a teddy bear that would move heaven and earth for the people he loves.
I really enjoyed getting to know Liz and Tom and watching them fall in love, build a long last friendship, and helping each other work through their issues. Their connection is electric right from the start, and when the sparks ignites, the flames fly right off the pages. Talk about some heat!
Overall, with its entertaining storyline, incredible heroine, drool worthy hero, and intense passion, this make a perfect combination for a very pleasurable read. I honestly believe once you start Kissing Micky, you won't want to stop.
Or maybe you will so you can find your own Micky to kiss and kiss and kiss some more. 💋
April 23, 2019
I have been so blessed recently in being able to read amazing books and I would definitely have to add Kissing Mickey by Ellen Devlin in that category. Sports romance novels are one of my favourite reads - especially ones that involve hockey. When I read the synopsis for this book, I knew it was something that I had to read and I am so thankful that I did.
I loved the character of Liz Williams, she was the typical girl next door - the one who idolized or had this fantasy of the man she wanted to be with - and in her glory in walks Tom "Micky" McCullin, who just happens to be best friends with her best friends husband. Soon after the two meet, the attraction between the two is undeniable and they cannot help pursue what is between the two. However, Micky's past prevents him from fully trusting her and it is such a realistic feeling that someone in that situation would totally feel.
I loved how Liz was so sure of herself and what she wanted. She didn't just take Micky for face value and she really challenged him. I felt for Micky at times because his insecurities really shown in times in the novel. I loved Ellen Devlin's story and how she told it - her writing capabilities are fantastic and she created characters who are easily loveable. If you are looking for a good book to read this summer - I definitely urge you to pick up Kissing Mickey, as it is a must read and addition to your To-Be-Read Shelf.
I loved the character of Liz Williams, she was the typical girl next door - the one who idolized or had this fantasy of the man she wanted to be with - and in her glory in walks Tom "Micky" McCullin, who just happens to be best friends with her best friends husband. Soon after the two meet, the attraction between the two is undeniable and they cannot help pursue what is between the two. However, Micky's past prevents him from fully trusting her and it is such a realistic feeling that someone in that situation would totally feel.
I loved how Liz was so sure of herself and what she wanted. She didn't just take Micky for face value and she really challenged him. I felt for Micky at times because his insecurities really shown in times in the novel. I loved Ellen Devlin's story and how she told it - her writing capabilities are fantastic and she created characters who are easily loveable. If you are looking for a good book to read this summer - I definitely urge you to pick up Kissing Mickey, as it is a must read and addition to your To-Be-Read Shelf.
April 22, 2018
4 stars
I love a book that can make me laugh out loud, truly it's one of my favorite things, so I loved the beginning of Kissing Mickey. It delivered the laughs and I loved the characters, plus hockey players...duh, HOT.
Liz Williams was dynamite. I loved her from her first introduction. She's super witty, outrageously funny in a physical comedy sort of way that I love and she's incredibly generous. Without much family of her own, she's created her own eclectic family, full of characters with larger than life personalities and she gives freely of herself to them. Gifting them happiness and borrowing some from them on occasion because in one of my favorite lines of the book "more happiness for them doesn't mean less for me. It's not like pie." I loved the way she lives her life and looks at the world. She's not a girly girl, she loves sports, the Avengers and beer. She's...me. lol. I identified with her on every page!
Tom McCullin "Micky" was Liz's personal walking fantasy (again, Liz and I share a brain apparently). He's the six foot four enforcer for her favorite hockey team and oh so, out of her league. But best friends doing what they do, they set these two up and hilarity ensues. Hilarity and hot times between the sheets, against the wall, in the kitchen, well, you get my drift. That is until it starts to become more than fantasy fulfillment and more real life. I struggled with this part of the book because Tom becomes a completely different person. The sweet, funny guy turns into a jealous, paranoid asshole. It was like that time that Scarlet Witch hijacked Hawkeye's mind in the Avengers (read the book and you'll get the reference, wink wink). Truly, I was looking around for an evil twin.
Thankfully, his friends help him kick the witch out of his head and he settles back into his own personality again but not without hurt in the process. Can he and Liz come back from a hurt this big?
I really enjoyed this book and am waiting to see if we get more from the rest of the Guardians! Zee really needs his own book! Great characters, great storyline, lots of laughs, lots of love; that's a recipe for an awesome book.
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
I love a book that can make me laugh out loud, truly it's one of my favorite things, so I loved the beginning of Kissing Mickey. It delivered the laughs and I loved the characters, plus hockey players...duh, HOT.
Liz Williams was dynamite. I loved her from her first introduction. She's super witty, outrageously funny in a physical comedy sort of way that I love and she's incredibly generous. Without much family of her own, she's created her own eclectic family, full of characters with larger than life personalities and she gives freely of herself to them. Gifting them happiness and borrowing some from them on occasion because in one of my favorite lines of the book "more happiness for them doesn't mean less for me. It's not like pie." I loved the way she lives her life and looks at the world. She's not a girly girl, she loves sports, the Avengers and beer. She's...me. lol. I identified with her on every page!
Tom McCullin "Micky" was Liz's personal walking fantasy (again, Liz and I share a brain apparently). He's the six foot four enforcer for her favorite hockey team and oh so, out of her league. But best friends doing what they do, they set these two up and hilarity ensues. Hilarity and hot times between the sheets, against the wall, in the kitchen, well, you get my drift. That is until it starts to become more than fantasy fulfillment and more real life. I struggled with this part of the book because Tom becomes a completely different person. The sweet, funny guy turns into a jealous, paranoid asshole. It was like that time that Scarlet Witch hijacked Hawkeye's mind in the Avengers (read the book and you'll get the reference, wink wink). Truly, I was looking around for an evil twin.
Thankfully, his friends help him kick the witch out of his head and he settles back into his own personality again but not without hurt in the process. Can he and Liz come back from a hurt this big?
I really enjoyed this book and am waiting to see if we get more from the rest of the Guardians! Zee really needs his own book! Great characters, great storyline, lots of laughs, lots of love; that's a recipe for an awesome book.
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
April 20, 2018
I love a book that can make me laugh out loud, truly it's one of my favorite things, so I loved the beginning of Kissing Mickey. It delivered the laughs and I loved the characters, plus hockey players...duh, HOT.
Liz Williams was dynamite. I loved her from her first introduction. She's super witty, outrageously funny in a physical comedy sort of way that I love and she's incredibly generous. Without much family of her own, she's created her own eclectic family, full of characters with larger than life personalities and she gives freely of herself to them. Gifting them happiness and borrowing some from them on occasion because in one of my favorite lines of the book "more happiness for them doesn't mean less for me. It's not like pie." I loved the way she lives her life and looks at the world. She's not a girly girl, she loves sports, the Avengers and beer. She's...me. lol. I identified with her on every page!
Tom McCullin "Micky" was Liz's personal walking fantasy (again, Liz and I share a brain apparently). He's the six foot four enforcer for her favorite hockey team and oh so, out of her league. But best friends doing what they do, they set these two up and hilarity ensues. Hilarity and hot times between the sheets, against the wall, in the kitchen, well, you get my drift. That is until it starts to become more than fantasy fulfillment and more real life. I struggled with this part of the book because Tom becomes a completely different person. The sweet, funny guy turns into a jealous, paranoid asshole. It was like that time that Scarlet Witch hijacked Hawkeye's mind in the Avengers (read the book and you'll get the reference, wink wink). Truly, I was looking around for an evil twin.
Thankfully, his friends help him kick the witch out of his head and he settles back into his own personality again but not without hurt in the process. Can he and Liz come back from a hurt this big?
I really enjoyed this book and am waiting to see if we get more from the rest of the Guardians! Zee really needs his own book! Great characters, great storyline, lots of laughs, lots of love; that's a recipe for an awesome book.
Liz Williams was dynamite. I loved her from her first introduction. She's super witty, outrageously funny in a physical comedy sort of way that I love and she's incredibly generous. Without much family of her own, she's created her own eclectic family, full of characters with larger than life personalities and she gives freely of herself to them. Gifting them happiness and borrowing some from them on occasion because in one of my favorite lines of the book "more happiness for them doesn't mean less for me. It's not like pie." I loved the way she lives her life and looks at the world. She's not a girly girl, she loves sports, the Avengers and beer. She's...me. lol. I identified with her on every page!
Tom McCullin "Micky" was Liz's personal walking fantasy (again, Liz and I share a brain apparently). He's the six foot four enforcer for her favorite hockey team and oh so, out of her league. But best friends doing what they do, they set these two up and hilarity ensues. Hilarity and hot times between the sheets, against the wall, in the kitchen, well, you get my drift. That is until it starts to become more than fantasy fulfillment and more real life. I struggled with this part of the book because Tom becomes a completely different person. The sweet, funny guy turns into a jealous, paranoid asshole. It was like that time that Scarlet Witch hijacked Hawkeye's mind in the Avengers (read the book and you'll get the reference, wink wink). Truly, I was looking around for an evil twin.
Thankfully, his friends help him kick the witch out of his head and he settles back into his own personality again but not without hurt in the process. Can he and Liz come back from a hurt this big?
I really enjoyed this book and am waiting to see if we get more from the rest of the Guardians! Zee really needs his own book! Great characters, great storyline, lots of laughs, lots of love; that's a recipe for an awesome book.
March 27, 2019
5 Sinfully Sexy Stars!!! Excellent book from page one!!!
I just recently really started loving sports books, so I was super excited when this book landed on my kindle. I loved it! That might be an understatement though! I was obsessed! I had to keep reading to see what was going to happen next!
This was the first book I've read by Ellen, and I can tell yout his won't be the last!
March 24, 2019
This is the first book in a new series and is Tom / Micky and Liz’s story. These two are a great match and work together to overcome obstacles in their path. This is a well written story which is humorous, fun, and with tad angst and secrets which rounds up to an entertaining read. I was totally intrigued and hooked throughout, and I look forward to reading more from this talented author, whose work I recommend for all.
March 22, 2019
This is the first time I have read this author and I will gladly read her again. It was a fun story with just enough angst to keep me turning the pages. Plus the fact that they hid their relationship as long as they did was great. Enjoyable to the very end.
August 5, 2019
Kissing Micky was a freebie and turned out to be really good. The characters were complicated, the dialogue was at times funny, and the story moved along nicely. The romance between Micky and Liz got hot fast, but the road was rough as both had to overcome past hurts.
April 26, 2022
Cute
Micky and Liz are it. Sweet. Great chemistry. And baggage! Oh my! There's no I in team but a capital i in Issues!
These two are human and it shows in their hang ups, issues, and relationships but it's a fun experience watching them grow.
Micky and Liz are it. Sweet. Great chemistry. And baggage! Oh my! There's no I in team but a capital i in Issues!
These two are human and it shows in their hang ups, issues, and relationships but it's a fun experience watching them grow.
March 29, 2019
Super glad these two got their HEA, they certainly had to work for it.
This was my first book by this author but I'm excited to see who is next !<3
This was my first book by this author but I'm excited to see who is next !<3
July 30, 2019
Kissing Micky
I loved this hockey love story. They both had prior history that they had to work together to heal. But to me the best part was the ending.
I loved this hockey love story. They both had prior history that they had to work together to heal. But to me the best part was the ending.
March 20, 2019
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March 31, 2019
Liz and Tom are being set up by their friends. Liz and Tom had the flirting and the lustful glances at each other. The fun play on each other and the passion that they have between them is undeniable. The way that Liz had kind of pushed Tom off as just a friend and then it appeared to be the way it was but the deep yearning was undeniable. This book was so fun and nice to read. Definitely had the steamy parts.
February 20, 2021
This delightfully entertaining story is that belonging to Liz and hockey player Tom AKA "Micky".
Tom checks off every item on Liz's fantasy man list, and Tom thinks that Liz is a very interesting woman. What follows is a humorous and steamy story of the development of a relationship, which will leave you laughing out loud and wanting more.
As their relationship develops, Tom becomes a bit of a donkey's behind, allowing jealousy and possessiveness to take the forefront. But their mutual friends helped them to see sense.
Liz is a witty and down to earth woman with a love of beer, ice hockey and Marvel... A friendly woman with no family, and amazing best friends.
Really enjoyed reading Kissing Micky.
Tom checks off every item on Liz's fantasy man list, and Tom thinks that Liz is a very interesting woman. What follows is a humorous and steamy story of the development of a relationship, which will leave you laughing out loud and wanting more.
As their relationship develops, Tom becomes a bit of a donkey's behind, allowing jealousy and possessiveness to take the forefront. But their mutual friends helped them to see sense.
Liz is a witty and down to earth woman with a love of beer, ice hockey and Marvel... A friendly woman with no family, and amazing best friends.
Really enjoyed reading Kissing Micky.
July 22, 2025
DNF
I really wanted to like this book but I just couldn't get into it. When you're choosing to watch something you've seen a million times over a new book, you know it's time to cut your losses. I couldn't stand the not knowing whose head you were in & it seemed like it was a really bad written script. Give it a go if you must hopefully you'll have more luck than me.
I really wanted to like this book but I just couldn't get into it. When you're choosing to watch something you've seen a million times over a new book, you know it's time to cut your losses. I couldn't stand the not knowing whose head you were in & it seemed like it was a really bad written script. Give it a go if you must hopefully you'll have more luck than me.
March 26, 2019
This is the first book I have read by this author but it won't be the last!
I had a hard time getting into this book in the beginning but once I got into it, I couldn't put it down!
I had a hard time getting into this book in the beginning but once I got into it, I couldn't put it down!
March 26, 2019
Review by: Jennifer
(3.5 stars)
When Liz met the newest player of the Guardians, Tom "Micky" McCullin, her first thought was that he was her fantasy man. For Tom, the attraction was instantaneous as well. When their mutual friends decide to throw them together, the two end up hitting it off. Spending whatever time they can together, the two end up in a relationship of sorts, the only issue.. its all a big secret that they haven't shared with anyone. What happens when the secret is out of the bag?
I'm not really sure what to say about Kissing Micky, this was an ok read that contains lots of drama, and I mean TONS of drama. Most of that was dealing with Tom/Micky and what was supposed to be alpha/jealous possessive behavior and what actually ended up as being way over the top and seriously going over the that guys crazy line. I LOVE the J/P trope but this ended up being just too much. And then there is Liz... at times she was amazing and funny while at others I wanted to shake some sense into her and tell her to stop taking his crap. The highlights were the naughty bits, they were extremely HOT like on fire hot. Between the weird formatting, Tom and his seriously craziness not coming off as sexy at all behavior, and that somehow this dragged out way longer than it needed to, I give this 3.5 stars.
(3.5 stars)
When Liz met the newest player of the Guardians, Tom "Micky" McCullin, her first thought was that he was her fantasy man. For Tom, the attraction was instantaneous as well. When their mutual friends decide to throw them together, the two end up hitting it off. Spending whatever time they can together, the two end up in a relationship of sorts, the only issue.. its all a big secret that they haven't shared with anyone. What happens when the secret is out of the bag?
I'm not really sure what to say about Kissing Micky, this was an ok read that contains lots of drama, and I mean TONS of drama. Most of that was dealing with Tom/Micky and what was supposed to be alpha/jealous possessive behavior and what actually ended up as being way over the top and seriously going over the that guys crazy line. I LOVE the J/P trope but this ended up being just too much. And then there is Liz... at times she was amazing and funny while at others I wanted to shake some sense into her and tell her to stop taking his crap. The highlights were the naughty bits, they were extremely HOT like on fire hot. Between the weird formatting, Tom and his seriously craziness not coming off as sexy at all behavior, and that somehow this dragged out way longer than it needed to, I give this 3.5 stars.
August 22, 2019
This book had a lot of potential but I felt as though it was over written. Every paragraph felt as though it was at least one sentence too long.
Sure, there was a lot of witty banter there but I felt as though maybe it was too much? Like it was stopping me from connecting with the characters.
Plus, I’m really a fan of the first person perspective.
Sure, there was a lot of witty banter there but I felt as though maybe it was too much? Like it was stopping me from connecting with the characters.
Plus, I’m really a fan of the first person perspective.
July 20, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A really good romance that I didn’t want to put down. The character dynamics between everyone was brilliant and I really liked it. I’m quite a few places, I thought it was realistic in the romance and that really appealed to me as well. The characters were also funny and sweet. This had me hooked and having to read more. Really liked this
A really good romance that I didn’t want to put down. The character dynamics between everyone was brilliant and I really liked it. I’m quite a few places, I thought it was realistic in the romance and that really appealed to me as well. The characters were also funny and sweet. This had me hooked and having to read more. Really liked this
January 13, 2024
Oh wow
What a story that takes place over about 2 years. Liz is hilarious and even though Tom/Mickey comes across as super gruff, they really are perfect for each other. This book had a lot of surprises to me. Lots of ups and downs like a real relationship has. Definitely a must read. Loved it all.
What a story that takes place over about 2 years. Liz is hilarious and even though Tom/Mickey comes across as super gruff, they really are perfect for each other. This book had a lot of surprises to me. Lots of ups and downs like a real relationship has. Definitely a must read. Loved it all.
June 11, 2023
romantic, sexy, intense and funny to read. love it!!!
Full recommend it has all the spicy and romantic details of a good love story!! I love all the book and how it ends. Enjoy it all the way!!
Full recommend it has all the spicy and romantic details of a good love story!! I love all the book and how it ends. Enjoy it all the way!!
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