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Northbrook Hockey Elite #6
Shootout
A pro hockey player with a past. A broadway dancer turned ice girl, and the ice that draws them together.
Trane wondered if he would ever be the kind of guy who settled down and had a family. He had too much in his past, too much to deal with in his present to have hope that his future would be anything other than many years as one of the best goalies in the NHL. Until he meets the new ice girl.
Former dancer on Broadway, Janae, can't seem to get a job anywhere but as an ice girl for the Detroit Comets. Her plan? To make her mark in Detroit so she can get back to Broadway as soon as possible. Things are going well. Her new dance routines for the team become an industry sensation. She predicts she'll be back in New York within the year. But then she goes out with Trane Jones. And suddenly everything she thought was important might not be.
Trane wondered if he would ever be the kind of guy who settled down and had a family. He had too much in his past, too much to deal with in his present to have hope that his future would be anything other than many years as one of the best goalies in the NHL. Until he meets the new ice girl.
Former dancer on Broadway, Janae, can't seem to get a job anywhere but as an ice girl for the Detroit Comets. Her plan? To make her mark in Detroit so she can get back to Broadway as soon as possible. Things are going well. Her new dance routines for the team become an industry sensation. She predicts she'll be back in New York within the year. But then she goes out with Trane Jones. And suddenly everything she thought was important might not be.
239 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 14, 2020
117 people are currently reading
163 people want to read
About the author
Sophia Summers
83 books300 followersSophia Summers is an award winning author who just wants to relax a little and enjoy a great beach read. She lives in a quiet southern town brimming with an extra dose of hospitality and a whole lot of charm.
She writes historical romance under a different name. The Billionaire Royals is her first contemporary romance series.
She writes historical romance under a different name. The Billionaire Royals is her first contemporary romance series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
April 13, 2020
Trane Jones (aka Diesel) doesn't expect much from life except to play hockey; he's got too much baggage from his childhood and doesn't expect to settle down and have a family. Being the best goalie in the NHL will have to do. Janae Terry doesn't plan to be an "ice girl" for long, but she'll use this as a time to regroup until she gets back to living her dream of dancing on Broadway. You know what they say about best-laid-plans.
This is a strong finish to the Northbrook Hockey Elite series which sadly has come to an end *heavy sigh*. Trane Jones is the character I think a lot of readers have been wanting to know more about since the first book. To say Trane had a rough upbringing is an understatement, but it was made better by Coach and his teammates at Northbrook Hockey Elite. I loved Trane and Janae's first meeting--it was so normal--joining him and Declan (aka Dice) for their post-game dinner. I image of the huge 6'8" goalie fitting into a Honda Civic with Declan in the backseat made me laugh.
I liked Trane and Janae's romance, no games, just two adults who really liked and supported each other, and wanted to get to know each other better. We got cameos of the other Northbrook Hockey guys and even a Belltown Sixpack shoutout. What I wouldn't give to see Zane after Hope's makeover. LOL. I love how close Trane and Coach stayed after he went pro. He truly was the father Trane never had. No spoilers on the ending, but I will say I loved it. The books in this series can be read in any order and can all standalone.
I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This is a strong finish to the Northbrook Hockey Elite series which sadly has come to an end *heavy sigh*. Trane Jones is the character I think a lot of readers have been wanting to know more about since the first book. To say Trane had a rough upbringing is an understatement, but it was made better by Coach and his teammates at Northbrook Hockey Elite. I loved Trane and Janae's first meeting--it was so normal--joining him and Declan (aka Dice) for their post-game dinner. I image of the huge 6'8" goalie fitting into a Honda Civic with Declan in the backseat made me laugh.
I liked Trane and Janae's romance, no games, just two adults who really liked and supported each other, and wanted to get to know each other better. We got cameos of the other Northbrook Hockey guys and even a Belltown Sixpack shoutout. What I wouldn't give to see Zane after Hope's makeover. LOL. I love how close Trane and Coach stayed after he went pro. He truly was the father Trane never had. No spoilers on the ending, but I will say I loved it. The books in this series can be read in any order and can all standalone.
I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
April 14, 2020
How can this be the last book in this series?! I don't think I'm ready for this to end. I have loved the feeling of family and camaraderie I've felt throughout the whole series. Each book focuses on one particular hockey player but the whole group appears somehow in each book. It's like keeping old friends while making new ones.
These books are easy reading, romantic distractions. I know what I'm going to get going in and that just feels good.
Trane is such a good guy. I love how hard he works at being that stand up guy at all times. He is a defender of the underdog because he was the underdog and he knows how it feels to have someone in his corner, making a difference for him. I loved how Trane's story came full circle in this book.
My only complaint about this book would be Janae and her backstory. I feel like we got mentions of it but nothing fleshed out. I don't know where she came from or what happened in her family. Only brief comments here or there. I wish I understood her more.
The Northbrook Hockey series has been a fun ride and I'm sad to be at the end. I'll miss this family of Hockey players.
Content: mild violence, kissing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
These books are easy reading, romantic distractions. I know what I'm going to get going in and that just feels good.
Trane is such a good guy. I love how hard he works at being that stand up guy at all times. He is a defender of the underdog because he was the underdog and he knows how it feels to have someone in his corner, making a difference for him. I loved how Trane's story came full circle in this book.
My only complaint about this book would be Janae and her backstory. I feel like we got mentions of it but nothing fleshed out. I don't know where she came from or what happened in her family. Only brief comments here or there. I wish I understood her more.
The Northbrook Hockey series has been a fun ride and I'm sad to be at the end. I'll miss this family of Hockey players.
Content: mild violence, kissing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 14, 2020
I’m always sad to get to the end of another series. I have loved reading each and every one of these hockey romances. And I actually know a little bit about hockey now too.
There’s something about Trane in this book. I can’t quite put my finger on it. But whatever it is makes him and his story my very favorite of the Northbrook Hockey Elite series. I loved the way he was with Coach Fenwick. The coach was more of a dad to him than his ever was. And he learned some great lessons about being on the ice and off from him. Maybe that’s part of why he was my favorite.
Janae is the woman that catches his attention. She’s a brand new ice girl for his Detroit team. Janae had dreams of Broadway, but they didn’t quite work out as she had expected them too. I loved the way she gave her all to being an ice girl. And she made her group of ice girls famous in their own right. That was one of my favorite parts of this book.
How could I not love the way the Northbrook guys were there for Trane when he needed them most? I love the way they are always available to help the others. Probably another thing they all learned from Coach Fenwick.
The ending of this one was just what I wanted for the end of the series. It was perfect. I know I won’t be sad to see the end of the series for too long, because I can’t wait to see what this group of authors does next!
I was sent an e-copy of Shootout as a gift from the author. All opinions are my own.
There’s something about Trane in this book. I can’t quite put my finger on it. But whatever it is makes him and his story my very favorite of the Northbrook Hockey Elite series. I loved the way he was with Coach Fenwick. The coach was more of a dad to him than his ever was. And he learned some great lessons about being on the ice and off from him. Maybe that’s part of why he was my favorite.
Janae is the woman that catches his attention. She’s a brand new ice girl for his Detroit team. Janae had dreams of Broadway, but they didn’t quite work out as she had expected them too. I loved the way she gave her all to being an ice girl. And she made her group of ice girls famous in their own right. That was one of my favorite parts of this book.
How could I not love the way the Northbrook guys were there for Trane when he needed them most? I love the way they are always available to help the others. Probably another thing they all learned from Coach Fenwick.
The ending of this one was just what I wanted for the end of the series. It was perfect. I know I won’t be sad to see the end of the series for too long, because I can’t wait to see what this group of authors does next!
I was sent an e-copy of Shootout as a gift from the author. All opinions are my own.
July 1, 2020
This book stood out from the others in the series because it gave us a behind-the-scenes look at another aspect of the hockey game- the ice girls. It was so fun to see Janae come in as the new girl and ramp up the excitement and interest with her dance routines. She doesn't have it easy with the extra workouts and jealousy from some of the other ice girls, but the captain quickly befriended her and helped her navigate the politics and dynamics of the team. (The ice dance-off was hilarious and a little ridiculous with the posturing, like something you would see in a teen movie). As the goalie Trane is invaluable to the team, and he gets a lot of action and injuries on the ice. His former coach from Northbrook encourages him to start dating in order to find a partner to support him and help him experience the softer side of life. Janae's appearance in Detroit is perfect timing for him and they quickly and naturally fall into friendship and more. Their relationship is easy as they are both interested and enjoy getting to know each other. The conflict come more from external forces as Trane struggles with his abusive father trying to reconnect and Janae's sudden fame gives her the option to move on more quickly than she anticipated. I loved the ending and how things worked out for this likeable couple and their Northbrook hockey friends. A great conclusion to the series!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
May 4, 2020
I'm sad the series is over...
I have absolutely loved this series and I'm sad to see the stories of this ragtag group of hockey pros come to an end. Trane, aka Diesel, is big and intimidating, but he has his own demons he faces and he's such an incredible man. An instant attraction forms between him and the new ice girl, Janae, and I loved watching her soften him up and wrap herself up in his protection.
In this series finale, my mind was vividly captured as I pictured not only the novel ice dancing that Janae created, but also the whirlwind romance that slid out of control, catching these characters off guard. I loved seeing the boys come together for a special event and the way they supported each other in a familial way.
This was a fun wrap up to the series and I loved learning more about these amazing men and the sport. I can't wait to see which sports series will be written next.
Content: mild romance; mild hockey violence
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
I have absolutely loved this series and I'm sad to see the stories of this ragtag group of hockey pros come to an end. Trane, aka Diesel, is big and intimidating, but he has his own demons he faces and he's such an incredible man. An instant attraction forms between him and the new ice girl, Janae, and I loved watching her soften him up and wrap herself up in his protection.
In this series finale, my mind was vividly captured as I pictured not only the novel ice dancing that Janae created, but also the whirlwind romance that slid out of control, catching these characters off guard. I loved seeing the boys come together for a special event and the way they supported each other in a familial way.
This was a fun wrap up to the series and I loved learning more about these amazing men and the sport. I can't wait to see which sports series will be written next.
Content: mild romance; mild hockey violence
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
March 30, 2020
Shootout is book 6 in the Northbrook Hockey Elite series and I have loved each one. This is the story of Trane, who grew up in a poor and abusive family. He was the scholarship kid in the Northbrook hockey program and shared a close bond with the coach who was like a surrogate father. Coach Fenway believed in shaping the young boys into good men first, good hockey players second. The Northbrook Elite players learned these lessons well.
Trane is the goalie for the Detroit Comets where he meets the new ice girl Janae. She has been hired to teach the ice girls dance routines to bring more enthusiasm from the fans during home games. Trance and Janae meet and start seeing each other. They will need to overcome jealousy, family problems and anger issues that could cripple their new relationship.
These books share 1 attribute that I greatly admire: paying it forward. Each of these stories showcase a hero who believes that where much is given, much is required. In each novel, the Northbrook Elite player featured has a story to tell and finds ways to make a better world for others who follow. Excellent storytelling and wonderful characters will leave readers with a smile and a lighter heart!
Trane is the goalie for the Detroit Comets where he meets the new ice girl Janae. She has been hired to teach the ice girls dance routines to bring more enthusiasm from the fans during home games. Trance and Janae meet and start seeing each other. They will need to overcome jealousy, family problems and anger issues that could cripple their new relationship.
These books share 1 attribute that I greatly admire: paying it forward. Each of these stories showcase a hero who believes that where much is given, much is required. In each novel, the Northbrook Elite player featured has a story to tell and finds ways to make a better world for others who follow. Excellent storytelling and wonderful characters will leave readers with a smile and a lighter heart!
March 27, 2020
Really enjoyed the wrap up to this sweet, clean, witty series! I'm really sad to see it come to an end. Sophia did a great job of a little recap of the series, as well as finally giving us Trane's story. Each one is a standalone, HEA, but I highly recommend reading 'em all!
I was given an advance copy, and this is an honest review.
I was given an advance copy, and this is an honest review.
May 10, 2020
I have loved reading the Northbrook Hockey elite series and I am so sad that this is the last one. I loved to be able to read Trane’s story. He is such a gentle giant and I loved him! This was such a wonderful book and the best way to finish this series. I loved how the romance developed between Trane and Janae. I loved how the traumas they experienced in their childhood helped them to understand each other and to be the best possible person for each other. Although I am sad to see this series come to an end I am looking forward to the next sports series by these authors.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
April 15, 2020
I wanted to like this, really I did. But the editing was HORRIFYING and every error jolted me right out of the story. I spent more time trying to get back into it than I did actually in it. The only reason I didn’t dnf was that I actually kind of liked Trane.
Another big issue was Janae. They build up her tragic backstory and then do nothing about it. Did she ever actually talk to Trane about her past? She hinted, sure, but it seems really wrong that his past is fair game and hers is made up of a couple hints. It made her extremely flat & insipid. Seems like the only thing she was good for was wiggling on the ice. Yes, it really was that awkward.
Continuity was an issue as well. Things just didn’t add up with what had previously been set up.
Ended up hating a book I wanted to love, so no more from this author.
Another big issue was Janae. They build up her tragic backstory and then do nothing about it. Did she ever actually talk to Trane about her past? She hinted, sure, but it seems really wrong that his past is fair game and hers is made up of a couple hints. It made her extremely flat & insipid. Seems like the only thing she was good for was wiggling on the ice. Yes, it really was that awkward.
Continuity was an issue as well. Things just didn’t add up with what had previously been set up.
Ended up hating a book I wanted to love, so no more from this author.
April 13, 2020
I loved reading this sports series and hate seeing it end. The story is about Trane (Diesel), the goalie, who has avoided relationships because he’s afraid he’ll be like his father who was abusive, and Janae, a former Broadway star turned Ice Girl, looking for something bigger and not a relationship, but they find each other. Will issues like Trane’s father appearing, Northbrook Elite’s Coach retiring, Janae’s Dancing Ice Girls Sensation come between them?
The continuity is great through the series even when written by several authors. The characters are well developed with great personalities and the story is well written.
The continuity is great through the series even when written by several authors. The characters are well developed with great personalities and the story is well written.
April 12, 2020
I’m not ready to leave my friends from Northbrook Elite and Belltown Six. This story is about one of the finest of the bunch, Trane or Diesel. Can’t tell you too much because I don’t want to ruin the ending but it is a wonderful story of love. Janae and Trane still have some lessons to learn and together is the best way. I’ve loved this series and I recommend it.
April 3, 2020
Book six in the Northbrook Hockey Elite series does not disappoint. Trane is a highly protective man with some build to him which is why he is the best goalie in the league. While playing goalie is second nature to him, he is not sure it is his dream anymore. The thing is, he isn't so sure he knows what his dream is.
Janae, former broadway dancer, is finding her new dream as broadway kicked her to the curb and now she is finding a new spot in the dance world as an ice girl and hopes to move on to bigger and better things when she can. When she meets Trane, will her dreams change?
This sweet romance is such a fun read. While the relationship develops quickly without much substance, the characters have deep backgrounds and are well-developed. Summers, Connolly, and Moore worked well together to write a fun romance in the sports world that has meaning and shows the possibilities of letting the past go and rising above your backgrounds. Any book by one of these three authors automatically goes on my to-be-read list and this one shows why. The great characters, a fun setting, and a brotherhood of hockey players make this book a success.
Janae, former broadway dancer, is finding her new dream as broadway kicked her to the curb and now she is finding a new spot in the dance world as an ice girl and hopes to move on to bigger and better things when she can. When she meets Trane, will her dreams change?
This sweet romance is such a fun read. While the relationship develops quickly without much substance, the characters have deep backgrounds and are well-developed. Summers, Connolly, and Moore worked well together to write a fun romance in the sports world that has meaning and shows the possibilities of letting the past go and rising above your backgrounds. Any book by one of these three authors automatically goes on my to-be-read list and this one shows why. The great characters, a fun setting, and a brotherhood of hockey players make this book a success.
April 5, 2020
Another great installment for the Northbrook Hockey Elite series! I really enjoyed the interaction between the six main players and the romance between Trane and Janae was very sweet. I appreciated the character development for Trane and his desire to give back and help young boys the same way he was. This was a really fun read and am looking forward to reading more from this author team!
April 3, 2020
I love this series! If you haven't read it yet add it to your TBR list!!
March 29, 2020
This standalone novel stood out for its strong plot within a firm sense of sticking to what is right and standing firm with your family (not necessarily biological). The characters are great role models and I love how you get a sense for where each of the Northbrook Hokry Elite are coming from as the series wraps up. Poignant moments bring a sweet sense of conclusion - all is right in their world!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
April 4, 2020
I thought this was one of the best ones in the whole series. But I am still in tears because it was the last one. I loved how you brought everything and everyone full circle. Thee are not to many books that I read twice, but this one will be one that I do. Would be lovely if you brought the all north brook guys with their families together for a family reunion. I would have given this book 10 stars if it was possible.
March 31, 2020
I love Trane's story. It was fun to see how this series ends. I learned so much about hockey. It was fun to get to know the ice girls and Janae. Neither Trane nor Janae wants a relationship but once they meet it is inevitable. Sofia Summers writes a great story.
March 27, 2020
Just finished reading this book and enjoyed it so very much. First time reading this kind of book. Don’t know anything about this sport but thought it was great. I really loved the characters and storyline. This is a voluntary review and would recommend it
April 15, 2020
This book kept me up until almost 3:00 AM! I love the camaraderie and bantering that goes on between the group of professional hockey players that played together back in high school. The way that their loved ones (girlfriend, wife, daughter) are taken into the group and looked after is so special. Trane and Janae are well-developed and just really likable characters. They share some absolutely sizzling kisses, but stop there. I've never watched a hockey game, but I love this series and recommend it and Sophia Summers' other books. I got my copy through KU.
March 30, 2020
Hockey has never been so hot in this final installment of the Northbrook Hockey Elite series! While I haven't read every book in this series (yet), the Diesel has been a powerhouse of a character I have looked forward to reading more about. Trane is a bear of a man with the heart of a teddy bear and it was great to learn more about him as he falls in love and opens his past and heart to Janae. With a challenge from his beloved Northbrook coach to date a woman, Trane bravely jumps both feet first into asking the new ice girl Janae out. I had no idea what an ice girl was before reading this book so it was fun to learn more about not only hockey, but other things connected to the sport. Their connection was sweet and I love that this book along with the entire series has plenty of great swoon worthy kisses, but also stays in the clean genre.
*Spoilers ahead* What I enjoyed most in this story was how Janae helped Trane to realize that while he loved hockey and it saved him from becoming his father, the two of them both want to give back to underprivileged kids like themselves and I really enjoyed how Trane left during his prime to do exactly that. This book was a great end to the six-book series and the author did a wonderful job showing glimpses of each of the other players and bringing them all in for one big family push at the end.
Definitely a great contemporary romance read.
*Spoilers ahead* What I enjoyed most in this story was how Janae helped Trane to realize that while he loved hockey and it saved him from becoming his father, the two of them both want to give back to underprivileged kids like themselves and I really enjoyed how Trane left during his prime to do exactly that. This book was a great end to the six-book series and the author did a wonderful job showing glimpses of each of the other players and bringing them all in for one big family push at the end.
Definitely a great contemporary romance read.
April 4, 2020
I’ve really enjoyed this series. I really appreciate that it’s a clean contemporary series and that it can still be a “romance” without getting to bogged down in lovey-doveyness. I really like Trane’s character. He’s got that gentle-giant persona but is still very much the protector.
There were some aspects of the story that I didn’t enjoy as much as I was hoping - the fact that the interactions between Trane & Janae basically go from 0-60 in as many seconds felt a bit fast for me. I would have liked a bit more interaction and buildup before they became openly “interested” in each other - but that’s not to say it isn’t realistic. I am not an expert on that front 😆
But like I said, everything about this series is clean in content. You don’t have to read them in order since there isn’t any real spoilers as to the other characters’ individual stories. It is nice though having the background knowledge for when the rest of the Pit are referred to.
I received an ARC of this book, with no obligation to leave a review.
There were some aspects of the story that I didn’t enjoy as much as I was hoping - the fact that the interactions between Trane & Janae basically go from 0-60 in as many seconds felt a bit fast for me. I would have liked a bit more interaction and buildup before they became openly “interested” in each other - but that’s not to say it isn’t realistic. I am not an expert on that front 😆
But like I said, everything about this series is clean in content. You don’t have to read them in order since there isn’t any real spoilers as to the other characters’ individual stories. It is nice though having the background knowledge for when the rest of the Pit are referred to.
I received an ARC of this book, with no obligation to leave a review.
April 5, 2020
Trane is a sweetie, and I really liked the romance between him and Janae, but I felt like there were inconsistencies and parts that were rushed over. For example, Janae's family background is hinted at but not really explained, and even Trane's backstory could have used some more development, particularly a little more mention about his mother. There's a scene where Janae and Trane go to his apartment and she's all impressed with it...but it's implied she had already seen his apartment because she went to see him after he hurt his back and couldn't take her out on a planned date. Also, with his back injury, it doesn't seem like a good idea for him to take her boxing. Also, while one of the other Northbrook players' girlfriend is mentioned by name, the others aren't, which maybe isn't a big deal but it just seemed inconsistent. All in all, I think the story was fun and good underlying ideas but needed better execution.
I read an ARC provided by the author. All opinions are my own.
I read an ARC provided by the author. All opinions are my own.
April 18, 2020
Why do great things have to end? The Northbrook Hockey Elite series has been so much fun to read, and Sophia Summers book, Shootout, has been a great finale! I enjoyed each story about each player very much. I liked catching glimpses of the characters throughout the series, and really thought it was a great ending to read about Trane in this last book. His character was so strong yet vulnerable and I loved the family element of all of the guys supporting him through his story. I also really liked Janae’s character and the way they went together so well. Wonderful sweet, clean, spicy love story, with the perfect ending for this story and the whole series!
May 15, 2020
The series wraps up with Trane's story. He's making a name for himself in Detroit as a top NHL goalie. He also tries to live up to the standards his Northbrook Hockey club coach taught him and is known for being a gentleman off the ice. However, there's a dark side to his past and he questions if he can trust love. If he can trust himself to not repeat the terrible example set before him by his own father. But, when coach challenges him to start dating a good girl, he's not sure how to even find one - that is until he sees the new ice girl who seems different from the rest.
Janae Terry has just arrived in Detroit to help teach the team's ice girls some dance routines and take the whole program up a notch. Her original goals were to be successful in Detroit and use it as a launchpad for returning to Broadway. However, when she starts to receive attention from the elusive goalie, she wonders if remaining in Detroit might be worth it.
This story had great potential, and after the first couple of chapters, I had hope for a great story. Unfortunately, it did not deliver. There were too many serious issues to ignore.
First, I found the character development poor. We're told that Trane grew up in an abusive home but then he has some happy memories growing up? We're also never told what happened to the mother? Then, with Janae, we're told that she had a rough childhood, then nothing more is said.
Next, I found multiple inconsistencies. At first, Janae is uncertain about Trane and the next moment, she's throwing herself at him in a classic example of insta-love. There are other examples of inconsistency, but that would give spoilers.
However, I would have been more forgiving to most of those had it not been for the multiple examples of extremely disturbing conflict resolution. Instead of resolving the conflict in a healthy, peaceful manner, the author chose to use violence. This is not ok.
Another disturbing issue was the unresolved use of pain medication after Trane is injured. There are multiple references to him using the medication, but nothing is said about healthy use and avoiding abusing them. This is concerning.
Again, I would come close to forgiving the plot holes and less than realistic ending if it were not for the disturbing use of violence in place of conflict resolution and the unresolved use of the pain medication.
Romance - steamy PG / suggestive kissing and lustful thoughts.
Language - PG
Violence - PG13 - not just on the ice during a game.
My rating - 2 stars
Janae Terry has just arrived in Detroit to help teach the team's ice girls some dance routines and take the whole program up a notch. Her original goals were to be successful in Detroit and use it as a launchpad for returning to Broadway. However, when she starts to receive attention from the elusive goalie, she wonders if remaining in Detroit might be worth it.
This story had great potential, and after the first couple of chapters, I had hope for a great story. Unfortunately, it did not deliver. There were too many serious issues to ignore.
First, I found the character development poor. We're told that Trane grew up in an abusive home but then he has some happy memories growing up? We're also never told what happened to the mother? Then, with Janae, we're told that she had a rough childhood, then nothing more is said.
Next, I found multiple inconsistencies. At first, Janae is uncertain about Trane and the next moment, she's throwing herself at him in a classic example of insta-love. There are other examples of inconsistency, but that would give spoilers.
However, I would have been more forgiving to most of those had it not been for the multiple examples of extremely disturbing conflict resolution. Instead of resolving the conflict in a healthy, peaceful manner, the author chose to use violence. This is not ok.
Another disturbing issue was the unresolved use of pain medication after Trane is injured. There are multiple references to him using the medication, but nothing is said about healthy use and avoiding abusing them. This is concerning.
Again, I would come close to forgiving the plot holes and less than realistic ending if it were not for the disturbing use of violence in place of conflict resolution and the unresolved use of the pain medication.
Romance - steamy PG / suggestive kissing and lustful thoughts.
Language - PG
Violence - PG13 - not just on the ice during a game.
My rating - 2 stars
April 17, 2020
Rating: 4.5 stars
What I enjoyed and found interesting:
• This was the sixth and last book in the Northbrook Hockey Elite series that I've read and I have found each one unique and very interesting. All of the hockey players' situations have been quite different making this an excellent series. This last book wraps up all the loose ends and leaves the reader with warm feelings towards a wonderful group of men.
• The beginning caught my interest right away when Janae met the Ice Girls. My interest was riveted until the end of the book.
• I loved the Ice Girls and their captain,Tiffany. These secondary characters added dimension to the plot of this book.
• Sophia Summers does an excellent job of making hockey relatable to readers who have never seen an ice hockey game. She does an amazing job of creating tension and excitement that is present during a game.
• I liked that this group of ex-Northbrook hockey players (they call themselves The Pit) gathered together to put on a birthday party for their old Coach Fenwick.
• There were lots of witty banter and funny situations between Trane and Janae. There were also funny texts between The Pit group members. I had some great laughs while reading this book.
• Trane and Janae were interesting characters that were easy to relate to. They were down to earth, kind, and principled. They were so interesting, you wanted to continue reading to discover more details about their personalities.
• This was a clean read. But that doesn't take away from the romance or chemistry between Trane and Janae.
I was given an advance copy of this book. My review was voluntary and my opinions were my own. I highly recommend this book to sport romance fans looking for something different.
What I enjoyed and found interesting:
• This was the sixth and last book in the Northbrook Hockey Elite series that I've read and I have found each one unique and very interesting. All of the hockey players' situations have been quite different making this an excellent series. This last book wraps up all the loose ends and leaves the reader with warm feelings towards a wonderful group of men.
• The beginning caught my interest right away when Janae met the Ice Girls. My interest was riveted until the end of the book.
• I loved the Ice Girls and their captain,Tiffany. These secondary characters added dimension to the plot of this book.
• Sophia Summers does an excellent job of making hockey relatable to readers who have never seen an ice hockey game. She does an amazing job of creating tension and excitement that is present during a game.
• I liked that this group of ex-Northbrook hockey players (they call themselves The Pit) gathered together to put on a birthday party for their old Coach Fenwick.
• There were lots of witty banter and funny situations between Trane and Janae. There were also funny texts between The Pit group members. I had some great laughs while reading this book.
• Trane and Janae were interesting characters that were easy to relate to. They were down to earth, kind, and principled. They were so interesting, you wanted to continue reading to discover more details about their personalities.
• This was a clean read. But that doesn't take away from the romance or chemistry between Trane and Janae.
I was given an advance copy of this book. My review was voluntary and my opinions were my own. I highly recommend this book to sport romance fans looking for something different.
November 19, 2020
I usually don’t write reviews, but after getting to the last book in this series I couldn’t bite my tongue anymore. If you’re going to write a complete six book series about NHL players please do at least a Google search about basic hockey knowledge. One book they talked about halftime...there’s no halftime. There’s only three periods. The players sit on the bench, it’s not referred to the players box. And this book, it’s also not the goal box! It’s just the goal or the crease. Then you have a player on the other team come barreling into Trane who is the goalie. And they talk about the player checking Trane! No, you can’t do that. It’s goalie interference and a penalty on the offending player. One book says that the player can’t get more than 5 penalties in a game!! No, there is not rule like that. This book, Trane was given a penalty. And he went to the penalty himself and left the goal open!! Like seriously?!?! Goalies never serve penalties another player does. And when Trane gets injured, he goes and sits on the bench during the game. Through out the series you have the main characters just meet up randomly during the season for events like a special all star game (!!!). That would never happen due to the practices and games. There was just so much wrong with the hockey aspect of these books that I was never more happy to finish the series. If you’re going to write a series or even just a book about a sport, please do some basic research, ask someone questions. Don’t just throw crap in cause it may sound good to you.
January 31, 2022
Shootout is the last in the Northbrook Hockey Elite series, and I am so sad that it’s at its end! I have enjoyed this series so very much, and Shootout was hands down one of my favorites in the series.
It’s hard not to fall in love with Train, that big giant teddy bear, and Janae, the new dancing talent with a heart of gold. Their attraction is undeniable, and seeing their relationship blossom, while Janae adjusts to a new life, and Trane plays his heart out, fighting for a spot in the championship, was so sweet and incredibly entertaining.
I always love seeing the rest of the Northbrook team in each story, and this being the last book of the series it felt like a reunion of sorts, which tugged on my heartstrings even more. Have I told you how much I love this series?!
One thing that really connected with me was Janae’s character. I too had a short dancing career that was cut short thanks to a freak accident, so when I read characters that have dancing either in their backgrounds or currently, a wave of nostalgia comes over me, my thoughts immediately going to what might have been. So, the parts where Janae was performing on the ice with the other ice dancers were some of my favorites, as was the action on the ice with Train blocking shots, and getting into fights.
If you haven’t read the Northbrook Hockey Elite series, I highly recommend you read it as a series, as it makes Shootout all the sweeter, but no worries if you haven’t, as it can also be read as a standalone. The flow is perfection, and it’s a quick and enjoyable read!
It’s hard not to fall in love with Train, that big giant teddy bear, and Janae, the new dancing talent with a heart of gold. Their attraction is undeniable, and seeing their relationship blossom, while Janae adjusts to a new life, and Trane plays his heart out, fighting for a spot in the championship, was so sweet and incredibly entertaining.
I always love seeing the rest of the Northbrook team in each story, and this being the last book of the series it felt like a reunion of sorts, which tugged on my heartstrings even more. Have I told you how much I love this series?!
One thing that really connected with me was Janae’s character. I too had a short dancing career that was cut short thanks to a freak accident, so when I read characters that have dancing either in their backgrounds or currently, a wave of nostalgia comes over me, my thoughts immediately going to what might have been. So, the parts where Janae was performing on the ice with the other ice dancers were some of my favorites, as was the action on the ice with Train blocking shots, and getting into fights.
If you haven’t read the Northbrook Hockey Elite series, I highly recommend you read it as a series, as it makes Shootout all the sweeter, but no worries if you haven’t, as it can also be read as a standalone. The flow is perfection, and it’s a quick and enjoyable read!
August 8, 2025
Another day, another round of "why in the world haven't I read this book until now?!"
I have thoroughly enjoyed all the books in this series, and Shootout was no exception. I have been anxious to read Trane's story since the beginning of this series, so I was super excited to finally get his story!
This book has a little bit of everything - an intimidating (but total softie) hockey player, a determined leading lady, the Pit, a dance off, hockey games, good guys you can't help but cheer for, jerks you just want to kick in the shins, the sweetest romance...what is there not to love here?
Trane and Janae were perfect for each other. I loved watching their relationship grow as they swiftly became friends and fell in love. If anyone deserves a happily ever after, it's these two (especially with the rough things they endured growing up).
If this book isn't on your TBR lists already, it definitely deserves a spot there. Trust me friends. It's a good one!
*my only beef with this story is the ending. When Janae made a big deal about staying in Detroit long term to work with the ice girls at the interview, only to leave shortly thereafter?! As awesome as it was to see one of the Pit take over for Coach Fenway, I think I would've liked appreciated the ending more had Trane stayed in the pros a little longer and Janae had more time working with the ice girls to really make a difference there.
I have thoroughly enjoyed all the books in this series, and Shootout was no exception. I have been anxious to read Trane's story since the beginning of this series, so I was super excited to finally get his story!
This book has a little bit of everything - an intimidating (but total softie) hockey player, a determined leading lady, the Pit, a dance off, hockey games, good guys you can't help but cheer for, jerks you just want to kick in the shins, the sweetest romance...what is there not to love here?
Trane and Janae were perfect for each other. I loved watching their relationship grow as they swiftly became friends and fell in love. If anyone deserves a happily ever after, it's these two (especially with the rough things they endured growing up).
If this book isn't on your TBR lists already, it definitely deserves a spot there. Trust me friends. It's a good one!
*my only beef with this story is the ending. When Janae made a big deal about staying in Detroit long term to work with the ice girls at the interview, only to leave shortly thereafter?! As awesome as it was to see one of the Pit take over for Coach Fenway, I think I would've liked appreciated the ending more had Trane stayed in the pros a little longer and Janae had more time working with the ice girls to really make a difference there.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 16, 2020
Satisfying end to this series
Trane (Diesel) falls for the new Ice Girl, Janae, fresh from Broadway and helping the girls add a dancing spectacular. But between a new girl in his life and his father showing up at odd moments, distractions and insecurities could end things before they really begin.
Trane was a sweetheart! He's huge but loveable and I instantly wanted the best for him. Janae had quite a history that we never got to hear much about or resolve, which was disappointing. All the drama was focused on Trane instead of the couple as equal partners with things to work through. They addressed some of her hangups, but I wanted see more development. I did enjoy how quickly they were able to become friends and share such deep moments--it was cute.
This was also a satisfying ending for the series: they resolve who takes over as coach or Northbrook and how the program will continue running. The epilogues are in there twice, though, which made it really confusing as to what actually happened when.
Trane (Diesel) falls for the new Ice Girl, Janae, fresh from Broadway and helping the girls add a dancing spectacular. But between a new girl in his life and his father showing up at odd moments, distractions and insecurities could end things before they really begin.
Trane was a sweetheart! He's huge but loveable and I instantly wanted the best for him. Janae had quite a history that we never got to hear much about or resolve, which was disappointing. All the drama was focused on Trane instead of the couple as equal partners with things to work through. They addressed some of her hangups, but I wanted see more development. I did enjoy how quickly they were able to become friends and share such deep moments--it was cute.
This was also a satisfying ending for the series: they resolve who takes over as coach or Northbrook and how the program will continue running. The epilogues are in there twice, though, which made it really confusing as to what actually happened when.
April 18, 2020
Swoon...
What a nice finish too this hockey players' series. I've been eager for Trane's story and Sophia Summers didn't disappoint. He's such a gentle giant, off the ice but a fierce and focused competitor on it. His back story had been hinted at in the previous books so it was great to see where he came from and how he rose above with help from his Northbrook coach and teammates. Janae was a woman with a plan, a dancer turned ice girl, (I didn't know they were a thing!) who wanted to be a star on Broadway.
I really enjoyed watching Trane and Janae open up to each other and how their relationship grew and changed them. I would subtract half a star because Janae seemed to have some trauma in her childhood alluded to, but never explained and she seemed to move past it easily. Other than that! I loved this story and how the Northbrook gang really was a great family
Now to wait for the next series of swoony sports books...
What a nice finish too this hockey players' series. I've been eager for Trane's story and Sophia Summers didn't disappoint. He's such a gentle giant, off the ice but a fierce and focused competitor on it. His back story had been hinted at in the previous books so it was great to see where he came from and how he rose above with help from his Northbrook coach and teammates. Janae was a woman with a plan, a dancer turned ice girl, (I didn't know they were a thing!) who wanted to be a star on Broadway.
I really enjoyed watching Trane and Janae open up to each other and how their relationship grew and changed them. I would subtract half a star because Janae seemed to have some trauma in her childhood alluded to, but never explained and she seemed to move past it easily. Other than that! I loved this story and how the Northbrook gang really was a great family
Now to wait for the next series of swoony sports books...
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