Gamed

Minnesota Caribou #4

by Colleen Charles

When I show up on the doorstep of a posh and girly boutique ready to take my self-induced off-season penance, the owner wants none of it.

Or me.

Despite her better judgment, she decides to give me a chance, and I work hard for her. Harder than I've ever worked in my life. Even though I have no idea why.

As one of the top players in the NHL, women come easy to me. Most just come.

But not this girl. She's feisty, sassy, independent. Hot as hell and sexy as sin.

Older.

But no matter what she thinks, she needs me. And before I'm done working off the price of my litany of sins, she'll know it.

Genres: Hockey, Audiobook, Sports, Sports Romance, Romance, Hockey Romance

231 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 11, 2020

About the author

After 26 years in Corporate leadership at a Fortune 500, I discovered people within the organization lacked integrity. I’d always known deep in my soul that I was trying to fit a square peg in to a round hole since I’m the typical creative type. I miss my staff but I don’t miss the corporate world. It’s been said that the Universe will let you know if something isn’t right for you. The first time, it will hit you with a pebble. Then a brick. Then a boulder. Let’s just say that I got flattened. When my fifteen pound toy dog, Nigel, was threatened, I knew it was time to say goodbye.
It’s true.
Here’s what I found within the first thirty days of being free. Writing stories from my heart that readers love means more to me than working myself in to an early grave for people who only care about their bottom line.
My heart has never been more full and my soul has never been more satisfied.
I’ve never worked so hard in my life but it doesn’t even feel like work. It’s worth it. All of it. Because it’s about the joy that’s found within the journey. The highs and the lows because I get to write stories for all of you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, enjoying and recommending the stories that I write. When you share my work with others, nothing is more rewarding. Your word of mouth is my very best friend … that, and your reviews. There is nothing more important to me than all of you.
I love to hear from my readers and answer all communications personally. You can find me at:

Reviews

[Bookstash · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spoiler Notes

Gamed by Colleen Charles (11/20)
[Minnesota Caribou - 4] (B Warm+) [10-19-25]

Removed From Plus Catalogue 10-21-25
Audible Available on USA Hoopla
Audible: 5 hours 58 minutes
Audible: Kelsey Navarro and Tim Paige
Both Recommended

Pro Hockey Romance - NHL
Arena Hockey Action
Hockey Is Actually Played
Duluth, Minnesota

Heroine: Sue-Ann Johnson (32)
Boutique Owner - Small Business Owner
Knows Nothing About Hockey
Approached by Hero’s mentor, hero needs a new perspective. Let him work for her, free of wages, get his head back on track for his career and off the partying. She agrees. I’m not sure today what the length of time was agreed on.

Hero: Max Monroe (25)
Skating On Thin Ice - Contract Time
Bad Boy - Puck Bunnies - Alcohol
Agrees to help out where needed in the Boutique. Wants his mentor’s approval. Wants to keep his career.

Rescue Dog Named Meatball
Rags to Riches Hero
Helping to Support Mom, Younger Brother and Sister

Older Woman - Younger Man
Age Gap: 7 Years
Opposites Attract
He Falls First

Chamber of Commerce Amazing Race
#Amazing Race - Tasks - Detours
The Penis Book - Wearing Women’s Shoes
Happy Times

First Date: Nearby Landscaped Venue and Retreat. Max introduces Sue-Ann to his dog Meatball, who thinks he’s still a puppy. They play Disc Golf, Sue-Ann’s first time and have a rest time besides a waterfall.

Back in the building Max hears a favorite song being played behind closed doors. It’s a Wedding Reception and he talks her into crashing it with him. Max immediately begins dancing the Chicken Dance and a fun time is had by all.

Disc Golf
Waterfall
Wedding Crashers
Chicken Dance

A few days later a sex video starring Max shows up on the internet. Sue-Ann watches it with dread as she hears him saying the same things he’s said to her. Turns out it was an old college girlfriend that betrayed him. And betrayed him again with this video he thought had been destroyed, trying to talk her way into a Reality TV Show.

College Sex Video Scandal Hero
Internet Sex Blows Up

Reconciled and got their HEA.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Max Monroe had been letting himself get a bit too wild with the women and booze and his mentor was concerned that he could be risking his hockey career if he kept that behavior going. So Max is sent to do some work for Sue Ann in her business. Sue Ann is an older woman who knows how to handle the young playboy. But instead of the drudgery this “punishment” could have been, the two of them have good chemistry together and she is able to bring him back to reality. She really does bring out the best in him. And he responds to that. In the process of his learning how to be responsible, their banter and camaraderie stirs up the friendship and attraction between them. How far will they take things? Or will Sue Ann feel compelled to walk away?

This was a good story line with nice pacing that fit well with their getting to know each other. The characters were likable, funny, and comfortable for the reader to be around. The age difference could have been the biggest hurdle, but Max made her see that age is only a number and what they had was far more important. Grab your copy and see how they resolve their situation.

[Tima · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Max, the male lead, has been mucking around and is about to lose his dream career and his capacity to support his mother and siblings. When his mentor pushes him to take an internship at Sue-Ann’s boutique, he grudgingly agrees. Sue-Ann, the female lead, has focused on her business for years and isn’t sure she wants this young, attractive male around but she’s doing a favour for a friend, so…

The forced proximity encourages friendship and, out of that friendship, comes an acceptance that the attraction is mutual. But Max’s sins are about to come back to bite…

This story is dual POV, well written, and a fun, sexy, contemporary sports-adjacent romance. I enjoyed Sue-Ann’s confidence and her awareness of her personal value. I enjoyed Max’s playfulness, as well as his willingness to buckle down and work hard. I appreciated that he was the one struggling with self-esteem, and the way Sue-Ann encouraged him. I enjoyed the character and relationship development, as well as the sexy intimate interactions.

[Nate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed Max & Sue Ann's book. Good characters. Great chemistry. It was an entertaining & fun read. I received a free copy of the book. And am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.

[BooksBooksandmoreBooks69 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Max is going to wreck his ice hockey career if he isn’t careful! He still thinks he’s a big fish in a little pond (his college days had given him that status symbol) but now he’s having to fight for his place in the team, he realises what’s at stake!
But even his mentor Milo tells him he’s being given one more chance. So max decodes whatever it is he’s going to do it. There is no way he’s going to mess up his career!

Sue-Ann has worked hard to get where she is today, an owner of a high end boutique. She’s focusing on her job and not her failed love life!

There is definitely sparks between these two as soon as they meet.
But he’s too young for her, and she’s definitely too old for him!

I thought this was a really fun read. Plenty of hilarity and fun. But there is also a serious side to this story.

And when a hiccup in their newly found relationship hits them, will they be able to survive it?

So can Max really make Sue-Ann see him as a grown up and not some spoiled brat? And can she really let go a day grab happiness that is dangling in front of her?

An age gap romance, but this one has the woman being older!
I didn’t really get the age gap feel (it’s only seven years) as they both acted pretty mature.
Nicely written with enough steam to keep me reading.
I’m going to be reading the rest of this series, and I’m highly recommending it.

🦋

[May Kathryn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A different kind of reverse age gap

I have always enjoyed hockey romance. I also enjoyed reading reverse age gap romances. Truth be told, these two tropes were the main reasons why I included this in my Audible library. This is also my first book written by this author, and it did not disappoint...somewhat. I like the meet-cute, with the hero being flirty and confident. I was basically rooting for them as the story progresses, but the problem is I think their attraction to each other was rooted too much in the physical aspect. I mean, I understand where they are coming from, and I also have to admire their candidness about their feelings, but I guess I am at that age when this kind of feeling feels shallow. Good thing, though, what happened next was interesting.

There are some pairs here that caught my interest. I am hoping I can get to read it in the future.

[KL Cassanello · Rating 5 out of 5]

Max is in hot water with Milo - too much booze, too many women, playing like crap - and he's not gonna like his penance. He is going to work at Sue-Ann's boutique for two weeks. For free. Milo warns him off from trying anything with Sue-Ann. She likes Max. Likes likes him. But she's too worried about their age difference - her 32 to his 25. Her friend, Julia, pushes her out of her comfort zone (thank goodness!) Max and Sue-Ann are hilarious together, and their participation in the Chamber of Commerce race was such a riot to watch! . Sue-Ann brings out the best in Max, making him want to be a better man for her. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and can't wait for the next in the Caribou series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mindee Dubrico · Rating 5 out of 5]

What more could you ask for in a book, but an independent woman and an under the radar hockey player? In "Gamed" we follow the love story of Sue-Ann and Max. Sue-Ann knows absolutely nothing about hockey, so she has no idea who Max is when he walks into her boutique to help her out. Their attraction grows stronger the more they work closely together. Until Max's past comes back to bite him the butt and derail everything, just as things were heating up between Max and Sue-Ann. Cue the annoying little sister to step in and save the day, and starts the ball rolling for a much deserved happily ever after for Max and Sue-Ann. So, grab yourself a copy of this book and get lost in the world of love, hockey, Amazing Race, and a modern day love story!

[Valerie Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall, I thought Gamed was a light, fun read. While described as an age gap romance, it didn't feel that way with Max and Sue-Ann's seven year difference. For two people who could not be more opposite, they sure had some amazing chemistry. Sue-Ann was sweet as can be and devoted to making her boutique a success. Max was fun-loving and adventurous with a great sense of humor. I caught myself laughing every time he embarrassed Sue-Ann. They got hit with a little drama, but I loved how Sue-Ann stepped up to make things right. I haven't read each of the books prior, just one, so I recognized a few support characters but not all. That said, I didn't feel like I was missing any key pieces of information. I'll definitely check out more of this series.

[brownsoda · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am newbie to the Minnesota Caribou series and because this book felt like a standalone. The appearance of previous characters felt cohesive within Gamed. Sue Ann a owner of a very eclectic boutique and she is given, by his mentor, the services of Max Monroe, a talented athlete of the Caribou. Max is a bit young and reckless. His avid interest in women and alcohol are leading him to the path of broke, washed up, has been.
Their relationship growth into romantic flowed well. I did have a few issues with the language. I didn’t completely believe the ages of each character. It felt a little forced and outdated. But again that could be me and overall did enjoy the breeziness of the read.

I received an ARC for my honest review.

[Jill Kerich · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely devoured this book on one late night. At his friends urging, Max shows up at Sue Ellen’s boutique to fill his time and keep him out of trouble. What he finds instead is the beautiful Sue Ellen and plenty to fill his time. This really was a sweet story about these two becoming friends with a spark and finally acting in the attraction.
Set in Duluth, MN, this book gave me a special glimpse at one of my favorite places in the world. I attended UMD in the late 80’s before returning back to AK after graduation and I try to visit whenever I’m in MN. Thank you for the virtual tour, Colleen!!

[Raecharmed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Max is a playboy that been partying too hard and now is being sent to Sue Ann to get his act together. Sue Ann is an older woman not willing to fall for any playboy. Max wants to be a better man for Sue Ann so he starts acting better. However Sue Ann doesn't date athletes because of how they tend to act. Sparks fly between them but will Max be able to convince Sue Ann to take a chance on him? Can they make it work with his history?

This is a great story that will captivate you from beginning to end. This is a well written and very entertaining story. I would recommend this book to any book lover.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Deb Fernow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Described as an older woman and younger man but seriously, I don’t see it like that. A pro hockey player that’s gotten himself in trouble one too many times is given the option of being an intern at a woman’s gift shop or else. Max has to work with Sue Ellen at her boutique for two weeks and keep his hands off her. Sounds easy but he finds out that the temptation is more than he bargained.

Fun story with lots of heat and romance, and as always, the HEA we all want. Along with some strong characters and buff men!

I was gifted a copy by the author for an honest and unbiased review. No compensation was promised or received for this review.

[Shirley · Rating 3 out of 5]

~3.5 Stars~
A tale of opposites attract, Max and Sue-Ann couldn't be more different. He's the wild playboy pro hockey player and she's nose to the grindstone growing her business and planning her future. When fate disguised as Milo puts them together, she needs the extra help and he needs the responsibility reality check, something between them clicks. He's the fun she forgot she knew how to have and she's strong and steady he realized he's missing. Of course there obstacles in their way, some self inflicted, some not so much but it wouldn't be a good story without having to work through them for their HEA.

[Gladys · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. Steamy, sweet, cute and fun, I thought that this was a delightful read. I found the characters very likable and I found myself charmed by them. I loved the banter, sparks and clever humor that zinged and zapped throughout the book and between the characters. The story itself was well written, nicely paced and easy to read. This romance had me engaged, invested and on the receiving end of plenty of feels. This is now officially my favorite book in this wonderful series. This is my independent, impartial review.

[Rowena · Rating 4 out of 5]

Entertaining sports romance read.

I loved this newest addition to a sport series that doesn’t disappoint. The storyline is not your typical romance read, the woman is an older, successful business than the hot younger hockey player. Their connection was unexpected but they light to a part of their life that they didn’t expect. I loved their chemistry, they were fun together and had great moments throughout the story. An entertaining and enjoyable romance story from start to finish. I can’t wait for more of this series.

[Marni Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Steamy and funny all in one

What a great book! Gamed had a little of everything. Heat and romance, belly laughs and hockey hotties. And a psycho roomba. Sue Ann and Max are a mismatched pair, at least on paper. She struggles to get past their age gap and Max does his best to show her that age is just a number. These two have some great fun and face some emotional issues before getting their acts together. Added bonus, we get to see how some of our favorite Caribou are doing and meet some new people.

[Jill Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

A woman who has it all but who is missing that special someone to share it with. A man who has a one chance in a lifetime hockey career but who feels unworthy and less-than. Gamed is a sexy, fun, touching, engaging, and racy book that will have you laughing one minute and steaming your glasses the next. I LOVED this book and the whole Caribou series. Flipping the pages was pure pleasure. Well done!

[Cindy Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg! I loved this book!
I loved the humor, clever banter, the amazing chemistry. The characters were great and very relatable. The story was engaging. It had me from the first page! I couldn’t put it down! It was a pleasure to read! I loved Sue-Ann and Max! They were perfect for each other! Gamed is my favorite book of the Minnesota Caribou series! Colleen has outdone herself with this book! I can’t wait for Colleen’s next book!

[Mulan Book Princess · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun book. Sue-Ann is just so sweet and Max cracks me up. Their seem an unlikely pair but compliment each other so well. Their chemistry is off the charts explosive, and their conversations and antics make me laugh. This was an entertaining sports romance that was really fun to read.

I received a free advanced review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my fair and honest opinion..

[Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hooked on Sue-Anne and Max's story from the get-go! She's a successful business owner and he's everything that she does not want in a man - he's a younger, womanizing hockey player! They meet when she reluctantly agrees with his mentor to let him intern at her boutique - in hopes that he will mend his ways before he gets cut from the team! Can he shape up or will womanizing ways cost him his career and everything he loves?! Great read!

[Jeanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sue-Ann and Max are in different places in life, but that doesn’t stop their friendship from starting and then becoming more after he is told to work for her by his coach. When his past rears its ugly head, neither handles it well. Max’s feelings of inferiority are sad because the encompass pretty much everything in his life. Sue-Ann’s are mostly about him. She knows her issues and really doesn’t work on them while throwing his immaturity around even though their big issue stems from her having issues with his past. I like that they have friends and family willing to tell them they are making mistakes.

[Elsie Pitt · Rating 4 out of 5]

This had me in stitches! I really like this book. It was intriguing and engaging. I do feel as if I have missed something with not reading the other books but all in all it was a good read for me and took me away for a bit. I enjoyed it and will be revisiting this author and these books.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a really sexy, spicy read then check this out! Colleen Charles’ best book yet! Hot young hockey player ☑️, sexy cougar ☑️, smoking chemistry ☑️☑️. This book really delivers with a growing friendship and undeniable chemistry. I feel it’s pretty lighthearted, meaning no heavy angst. No ugly crying with this one.

[Katie Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another hot and heart warming story

Once again a Caribou hockey jock is finding love! I love how Max and Sue-Ann complement each others characters. It you're in the mood for a sensual romantic adventure, this is the book you want to grab! You don't need to have read the first 3 books, but I highly recommend them!

[Andrea Fernandez · Rating 4 out of 5]

A spicy and heartwarming journey to go on with Max and Sue Ann. These two may have an age gap but you couldn't tell, although Sue Ann had a little bit of an issue with it. When these two finally get it together their chemistry is off the charts and the bond they developed with adorable. I enjoyed this story.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gamed

Book 4 of the Minnesota Caribou
The story of older woman and younger man is one of my favorites.
It shouldn't be taboo because men can and no one cares


Love Sue ann and am happy she go her HEA.
Max is a hoot and charismatic.
Love HHH. And meatball.
I love that characters from previous books make their way to the next in the saga.

[Anna M_82 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a lot of fun to read. At first I disliked Max and then I loved him. You are going to love the amazing race portion of the story. So fun and super hot.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Elvira · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author has done an amazing job with developing the characters they are engaging and kept me entertained throughout the pages.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Emma Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

Wow i couldn't put this book down. I loved the previous books in this series so I had no doubt that Colleen would keep me entertained. Loved.The story and the characters. Love hockey based books so it really ticked all the right boxes for me