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Gold Hockey #11
Caged
Shy.
God, she was so painfully, awkwardly shy.
Blurting out the wrong thing at the wrong time? Check.
Puking in front of the class when she’d needed to give a speech? Double check.
Critically, embarrassingly unable to summon any semblance of a rational thought when in the presence of an attractive man? Triple check.
And she was surrounded by gorgeous, sexy men on a daily basis.
As video coach for the San Francisco Gold hockey franchise, Dani spent her days wrapped in a technological bubble. She studied tape, prepared clips for the players, and generally avoided other people.
Until Ethan.
She’d thought he was going to ask her to fix his computer.
Instead, he’d asked her out.
On a date. A date! That didn’t compute. It couldn’t be right. No one asked her out—
Ethan had.
And suddenly, Dani thought it might be possible to leave her shy, awkward days behind her.
God, she was so painfully, awkwardly shy.
Blurting out the wrong thing at the wrong time? Check.
Puking in front of the class when she’d needed to give a speech? Double check.
Critically, embarrassingly unable to summon any semblance of a rational thought when in the presence of an attractive man? Triple check.
And she was surrounded by gorgeous, sexy men on a daily basis.
As video coach for the San Francisco Gold hockey franchise, Dani spent her days wrapped in a technological bubble. She studied tape, prepared clips for the players, and generally avoided other people.
Until Ethan.
She’d thought he was going to ask her to fix his computer.
Instead, he’d asked her out.
On a date. A date! That didn’t compute. It couldn’t be right. No one asked her out—
Ethan had.
And suddenly, Dani thought it might be possible to leave her shy, awkward days behind her.
265 pages, ebook
First published April 12, 2021
186 people are currently reading
477 people want to read
About the author
Elise Faber
161 books1,073 followersUSA Today bestselling author, Elise Faber, loves chocolate, Star Wars, and hockey (the order depending on the day and how well her team—the Sharks!—are playing). She and her husband also play as much hockey as they can squeeze into their schedules, so much so that their typical date night is spent on the ice. Elise changes her hair color more often than some people change their socks, loves sparkly things, and is the mom to two exuberant boys. She lives in Northern California. Connect with her in her Facebook group, the Fabinators or email her at elise@elisefaber.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
April 13, 2021
It still blows my mind how easy it is to read an Elise story. I don’t mean easy like they are unrealistic or not relatable, the total opposite actually. Every single time I find a way to connect with not just the story itself, but also the characters. She made it easy this time LOL because who does not like the quirky nerdish chic and the athlete tumbling into a HEA!
I don’t normally mention plot-points of a story, but there is one thing I think would be beneficial for future readers to know. It’s gonna take a minute for the book to get going on the romancing. That’s the best way I can say it. But it is a necessary minute! Both Dani and Ethan have what I would call self-worth issues which is obviously the biggest obstacle one faces when putting themselves out there. Their personal growth is part of this story. Both of them striving for what they want and getting past their baggage is part of this story as a whole. The problem with all of that is that it takes space and time away from the romancing and it could frustrate some of you. The only thing I can say about that is that I trusted Elise’s skills and pushed thru and here I am so …. 4 fabulously swoony STARS! Do with that info what you will :)
I don’t normally mention plot-points of a story, but there is one thing I think would be beneficial for future readers to know. It’s gonna take a minute for the book to get going on the romancing. That’s the best way I can say it. But it is a necessary minute! Both Dani and Ethan have what I would call self-worth issues which is obviously the biggest obstacle one faces when putting themselves out there. Their personal growth is part of this story. Both of them striving for what they want and getting past their baggage is part of this story as a whole. The problem with all of that is that it takes space and time away from the romancing and it could frustrate some of you. The only thing I can say about that is that I trusted Elise’s skills and pushed thru and here I am so …. 4 fabulously swoony STARS! Do with that info what you will :)
April 12, 2021
Universal
When the object of Dani's fervent crush, biggest fantasies, asks her out, she turns him down. Oh, not because she doesn't want to go on a date with him, but because her crippling shyness makes it difficult for her to socialize, to interact with anyone beyond the technology she uses as a video coach for Ethan's hockey team. She has no idea just how much Ethan's feelings toward her are as strong as hers are for him. When he focuses his attention on her, uses a different approach to get her out of her shell, well, she'll have to decide if she's going to step out of her comfort zone for him, or stay safe in her zone, but live without the warmth, the love that Ethan can bring to her life.
I love it when a big, muscular guy confounds everyone by being sweet, sensitive, and intelligent. Those three words are Ethan in a nutshell and precisely why he is the perfect guy for Dani. They both have their own insecurities, their own damage, that they were able to heal with each other, heal each other, was a beautiful thing. Though Ethan may not have been the superstar of the Gold, he's definitely the superstar of this series, and by far my favorite hero, my favorite character of this excellent series. Dani was harder for me to fall for her, but I felt for her and all that she had been through that made her the way she was. I applaud her strength and loved it when she finally got the happiness she and Ethan worked so hard for.
ARC via Elle Woods PR for an honest review.
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July 9, 2021
This heroine needed therapy. I struggled with her character, because she was so insecure and self destructive. The hero was wonderful, an amazing man. So patient with her. Loved him! Book 11 in this series, but easily read as a standalone. Don’t let the introduction of all characters at the beginning of the book scare you. You don’t need to know them by heart and most side characters only have a minor role in this book. Some minor spoilers ahead.
The story is about hockey player Ethan and member of the team Dani. Ethan is crushing on Dani for ages. Not sure if it’s years or months, because the author kept switching, mentioning years in one chapter and months in the other. Either way, Ethan liked Dani from afar and I’m not sure why. She is so shy, unable to speak full sentences in his presence and turning him down again and again. This hero is persistent, that’s for sure.
Dani was hurt in her teens and that has left a mark on how she handles relationships. Not only romantically but also in her friendships. She doesn’t think she’s worthy, she compares herself to other women and is so insecure about herself and the way she looks. Despite that she acted so immature. This all annoyed me after a while, because she remained this way for about 90% of the book. She hasn’t made peace with her past and I really believe she needs therapy to get over it. Ethan was a great guy, not a manwhore or a player, a genuine good guy. So patient with Dani and not giving up on her. The author gave him some self doubt in the last quarter of the book and I’m not sure why. He seemed pretty determined and self confident in the beginning of the book. I didn’t get the impression early on that he was insecure about himself and feeling unworthy of his parents.
I forgot that this author only knows one pet name for her heroes to call their heroines: sweetheart. She has to start using a variety in pet names, because with this book being number 11 in the series, it’s really annoying the crap out of me to only read about “sweetheart”.
Safe read. Hero not a manwhore. Both celibate for a while. No OM/OW drama or sex with OP.
The story is about hockey player Ethan and member of the team Dani. Ethan is crushing on Dani for ages. Not sure if it’s years or months, because the author kept switching, mentioning years in one chapter and months in the other. Either way, Ethan liked Dani from afar and I’m not sure why. She is so shy, unable to speak full sentences in his presence and turning him down again and again. This hero is persistent, that’s for sure.
Dani was hurt in her teens and that has left a mark on how she handles relationships. Not only romantically but also in her friendships. She doesn’t think she’s worthy, she compares herself to other women and is so insecure about herself and the way she looks. Despite that she acted so immature. This all annoyed me after a while, because she remained this way for about 90% of the book. She hasn’t made peace with her past and I really believe she needs therapy to get over it. Ethan was a great guy, not a manwhore or a player, a genuine good guy. So patient with Dani and not giving up on her. The author gave him some self doubt in the last quarter of the book and I’m not sure why. He seemed pretty determined and self confident in the beginning of the book. I didn’t get the impression early on that he was insecure about himself and feeling unworthy of his parents.
I forgot that this author only knows one pet name for her heroes to call their heroines: sweetheart. She has to start using a variety in pet names, because with this book being number 11 in the series, it’s really annoying the crap out of me to only read about “sweetheart”.
Safe read. Hero not a manwhore. Both celibate for a while. No OM/OW drama or sex with OP.
April 8, 2021
There is a simmering attraction between Ethan and Dani, but Dani has went through some life changing events that have shaped her present. She has very little self-confidence herself except when she is working. She is shy, but has been hiding inside herself, and Ethan is just the person to pull her out. There are moments where you want to shout at Dani, but when you hear about what happened when she was younger you get a better understaning of her hang-ups. Although, it’s frustrating that she has allowed it to rule her life for so long. Ethan is equally frustrating at times because all he ever needed to do was speak to the people in his life and he would have gotten the validation that he always wanted. It was great to visit the Gold Hockey team again.
April 23, 2021
Opening the door!
Dani is the video manager for Gold Hockey, she's shy and considers herself a nerd. Whilst she's shy, she also notices more than people give her credit for. One thing she has noticed is Ethan, one of the hockey players and she feels he's out of her league. What she hasn't noticed is that Ethan has also noticed her and is hoping to get to know her. What happens when they both take a chance? What happens when their inner person tries to sabotage their feelings? Can they silence the inner monologues long enough to see just how good for each other they are? I loved this book, the characters were not created perfect but had flaws and were very human. The chemistry between them and the little touches made them perfect for each other!
Dani is the video manager for Gold Hockey, she's shy and considers herself a nerd. Whilst she's shy, she also notices more than people give her credit for. One thing she has noticed is Ethan, one of the hockey players and she feels he's out of her league. What she hasn't noticed is that Ethan has also noticed her and is hoping to get to know her. What happens when they both take a chance? What happens when their inner person tries to sabotage their feelings? Can they silence the inner monologues long enough to see just how good for each other they are? I loved this book, the characters were not created perfect but had flaws and were very human. The chemistry between them and the little touches made them perfect for each other!
December 10, 2024
3.5 🌟 Dani and Ethan were a pleasure to read. This book showed that fine line between pushing to get through someone’s protective walls and being a jerk. Ethan did a good job of skating that line, pulling back whenever he was unsure this was what she wanted. This certainly had lots of moments of miscommunication but they fit with the story. Ethan is another hockey player in the vein of Liam who does not think he is gods gift which makes him all the more appealing. My heart broke for Dani and I was so glad she got Ethan.
February 3, 2022
Moc povedené 😊
Ethan byl skvělý, romantický "medvídek" 😂 a plachá Dani, která jako jedna z mála hrdinek zůstala s touto vlastností a pracovala s ní.
V mnohých knihách je nám představena plachá hrdinka která po setkání s hrdinou je najednou sarkastická, sebevědomá a úplný opak své předešlé osobnosti (neumím si představit jak celý život plachá dívka zvládá být najednou sarkastická, společenská před celým světem 🤦)
Ethan byl skvělý, romantický "medvídek" 😂 a plachá Dani, která jako jedna z mála hrdinek zůstala s touto vlastností a pracovala s ní.
V mnohých knihách je nám představena plachá hrdinka která po setkání s hrdinou je najednou sarkastická, sebevědomá a úplný opak své předešlé osobnosti (neumím si představit jak celý život plachá dívka zvládá být najednou sarkastická, společenská před celým světem 🤦)
April 10, 2023
Caged was just kind of too boring for me. I immediately didn't like Dani, I get it - she's shy. I am too, but Dani was just painfully shy. She was constantly stammering over her words and pushing Ethan away. I liked Ethan, he seemed like an all around good guy and bless him for sticking it out with Dani to the end. Other than that, it just felt like not much happened in this story. We get Dani's background on why she is so shy and yea what happened to her sucked but she didn't need to treat Ethan how she did because of it. Ethan has some self esteem issues as well, but he handled them a bit better.
July 30, 2021
First book in the series for me. I enjoy hockey romances and I liked the book description. Actual read was a disappointment. The first half of the book was hard to get through (enough so that I almost didn’t finish.) The end rebounded enough that I rated it two stars. May consider another in the series.
September 2, 2023
A bit disappointing, in all honesty. Not that it was bad - not at all. It's just that I've enjoyed the other Gold books I've read so much more, and that there was so much more that this book could have been. So, unlike my feelings about the other ones I've read, this one's Just Ok. 2+ but what I didn't like, I didn't like enough that I don't want to round up.
Ethan (H) and Dani (h) both work for the Gold NHL hockey team. He's a player, and she's a behind the scenes staff member. She's shy and keeps to herself, so when Ethan tries to ask her out, she's floored that it's not a computer-related question and pushes him away. They've each crushed on the other for years but can't seem to communicate this. Will these two ever be able to see eye to eye?
On the plus side, it's still a Faber book. Despite being centered around a group of professional athletes and a lot of their very trained or specialized support staff, the stories are relatable and not too 'out there' (no kidnapping or intense abuse or OTT drama). They are pretty sweet stories overall, and more character driven romances, while still having some steam to them. And who doesn't love a good found family dynamic? And about those characters driving the stories... there's still the fun (and ever growing) cast of characters who we get to continue to see throughout the series. SIDE NOTE - there's quite a cast list at the beginning of the book, with everyone's partners, their starring novel, and a quick one sentence intro. Don't be intimidated - it's really basic and not essential to remember who everyone is in order to still enjoy this one, as most are just side characters here.
As for these particular characters, Ethan is super sweet, intelligent, professional athlete-level hot, and not obnoxiously alpha. Dani is a shy, geeky black woman who works in AV tech (she's the camera and game footage guru for the team). On paper, there's a ton to enjoy about them and to root for their HEA.
So where did this fall flat?
Both Ethan and Dani had some self-worth issues - it's really beyond self-esteem in a lot of ways. Ethan's is more subtle, just self-deprecating humor and background feelings of inadequacy compared to his college professor parents. It's relatable and understandable, and he's still able to function in society. He just struggles to really pursue Dani with any confidence, and it's easy for him to take her rejections personally. Basically, he's got none of that alpha attitude that's so common in romance novels. But he still sticks it out and is so patient with Dani despite her being rude as all get out.
That wouldn't be so bad - actually, Ethan is a pretty awesome book boyfriend IMHO - but he's paired with Dani. And Dani straight-up needs professional help.
I get it. She's shy. I'm shy. She's anxious. I'm anxious. But she's pathological. She's 30 years old and can barely function in society. Yes, we do eventually get her backstory, but she had simply never dealt with any of her emotions in order to not be rude as all get out. She constantly stammers, struggles to make eye contact, and pretty much shuts down if people - any people - try to talk to her. She has no real friends, no relationships outside of work, and even those are shaky. And her family that she's supposed to be so close to? They have let her be this way. It has been nearly 10 years since she graduated college and went out on her own, almost 15 years since her traumatic dating experience, and she's still stuck. And yet, hypocritically, she gets mad at Ethan every time he tries to be calm and patient with her. She gets angry, arguing that she's just shy and not breakable, not vulnerable, not traumatized. But if I met someone who acted like she did? I'd assume exactly that - something has happened to her that has damaged her ability to relate to and function around people, and that she needs to be handled with kid gloves (at least to some extent). And again, I'm saying this as a shy and anxious person myself!
And all of this is such a weird lack of confidence, because on the surface, she'd have to have more of a spine and social skills. She is working as a woman in tech, and a woman of color to ice the cake. And it's not just tech, but sports tech. So, basically, she's in an incredibly masculine niche in an even more masculine field, working in a leadership role as a POC woman. And she can't speak while making eye contact or without stuttering? How did she even make it this far???
I have other books I've loved with shy, anxious characters - Limits and Rock Hard are two favorites. Again, super shy, anxious, traumatized leads, but they want to change. It seemed Dani just felt like it was OK to be lonely and sad and negative and never have any sort of social connections. Like, it was OK to be stuck being miserable her whole life.
And when she does step forward into the real world? It's like a switch flipped, and years of trauma and bad habits just gone because she decided so. There was serious meat to her background that we could have explored - heck, just being a minority woman in tech would have been a good backstory, even side from a specific bullying or traumatic dating past. Instead, we get a bitter and negative victim suddenly deciding she was OK again. Again, she seriously needed therapy to deal with how she treated people, and that never even came close to being addressed.
Alternating 3rd person POV. No cheating, no love triangles, no OW/OM nonsense. Really just Dani learning to get over herself (and Ethan too, a little bit) and be willing to accept a relationship is possible. Very little actual mental healing. Felt abrupt and unsatisfying as a story arc. I really never warmed to Dani and couldn't understand what Ethan saw in her. Which always makes a romance hard to support. HEA and an epilogue a few months down the road. Not bad, just not satisfying either.
Would I read more by this author/in this series?
Yes to both. Like I said, I've read other Gold books and am interested in trying Faber's other series too. I've loved some of them and enjoyed all of them. This one was just a bad set of leads (well, at least one lead) and a set-up that was never used to its fullest. Still, one bad (well, lackluster) read in a series isn't going to put me off. It's just not one I'd reread unless I'm on a "Read the Series in Its Entirety" kick.
Ethan (H) and Dani (h) both work for the Gold NHL hockey team. He's a player, and she's a behind the scenes staff member. She's shy and keeps to herself, so when Ethan tries to ask her out, she's floored that it's not a computer-related question and pushes him away. They've each crushed on the other for years but can't seem to communicate this. Will these two ever be able to see eye to eye?
On the plus side, it's still a Faber book. Despite being centered around a group of professional athletes and a lot of their very trained or specialized support staff, the stories are relatable and not too 'out there' (no kidnapping or intense abuse or OTT drama). They are pretty sweet stories overall, and more character driven romances, while still having some steam to them. And who doesn't love a good found family dynamic? And about those characters driving the stories... there's still the fun (and ever growing) cast of characters who we get to continue to see throughout the series. SIDE NOTE - there's quite a cast list at the beginning of the book, with everyone's partners, their starring novel, and a quick one sentence intro. Don't be intimidated - it's really basic and not essential to remember who everyone is in order to still enjoy this one, as most are just side characters here.
As for these particular characters, Ethan is super sweet, intelligent, professional athlete-level hot, and not obnoxiously alpha. Dani is a shy, geeky black woman who works in AV tech (she's the camera and game footage guru for the team). On paper, there's a ton to enjoy about them and to root for their HEA.
So where did this fall flat?
Both Ethan and Dani had some self-worth issues - it's really beyond self-esteem in a lot of ways. Ethan's is more subtle, just self-deprecating humor and background feelings of inadequacy compared to his college professor parents. It's relatable and understandable, and he's still able to function in society. He just struggles to really pursue Dani with any confidence, and it's easy for him to take her rejections personally. Basically, he's got none of that alpha attitude that's so common in romance novels. But he still sticks it out and is so patient with Dani despite her being rude as all get out.
That wouldn't be so bad - actually, Ethan is a pretty awesome book boyfriend IMHO - but he's paired with Dani. And Dani straight-up needs professional help.
I get it. She's shy. I'm shy. She's anxious. I'm anxious. But she's pathological. She's 30 years old and can barely function in society. Yes, we do eventually get her backstory, but she had simply never dealt with any of her emotions in order to not be rude as all get out. She constantly stammers, struggles to make eye contact, and pretty much shuts down if people - any people - try to talk to her. She has no real friends, no relationships outside of work, and even those are shaky. And her family that she's supposed to be so close to? They have let her be this way. It has been nearly 10 years since she graduated college and went out on her own, almost 15 years since her traumatic dating experience, and she's still stuck. And yet, hypocritically, she gets mad at Ethan every time he tries to be calm and patient with her. She gets angry, arguing that she's just shy and not breakable, not vulnerable, not traumatized. But if I met someone who acted like she did? I'd assume exactly that - something has happened to her that has damaged her ability to relate to and function around people, and that she needs to be handled with kid gloves (at least to some extent). And again, I'm saying this as a shy and anxious person myself!
And all of this is such a weird lack of confidence, because on the surface, she'd have to have more of a spine and social skills. She is working as a woman in tech, and a woman of color to ice the cake. And it's not just tech, but sports tech. So, basically, she's in an incredibly masculine niche in an even more masculine field, working in a leadership role as a POC woman. And she can't speak while making eye contact or without stuttering? How did she even make it this far???
I have other books I've loved with shy, anxious characters - Limits and Rock Hard are two favorites. Again, super shy, anxious, traumatized leads, but they want to change. It seemed Dani just felt like it was OK to be lonely and sad and negative and never have any sort of social connections. Like, it was OK to be stuck being miserable her whole life.
And when she does step forward into the real world? It's like a switch flipped, and years of trauma and bad habits just gone because she decided so. There was serious meat to her background that we could have explored - heck, just being a minority woman in tech would have been a good backstory, even side from a specific bullying or traumatic dating past. Instead, we get a bitter and negative victim suddenly deciding she was OK again. Again, she seriously needed therapy to deal with how she treated people, and that never even came close to being addressed.
Alternating 3rd person POV. No cheating, no love triangles, no OW/OM nonsense. Really just Dani learning to get over herself (and Ethan too, a little bit) and be willing to accept a relationship is possible. Very little actual mental healing. Felt abrupt and unsatisfying as a story arc. I really never warmed to Dani and couldn't understand what Ethan saw in her. Which always makes a romance hard to support. HEA and an epilogue a few months down the road. Not bad, just not satisfying either.
Would I read more by this author/in this series?
Yes to both. Like I said, I've read other Gold books and am interested in trying Faber's other series too. I've loved some of them and enjoyed all of them. This one was just a bad set of leads (well, at least one lead) and a set-up that was never used to its fullest. Still, one bad (well, lackluster) read in a series isn't going to put me off. It's just not one I'd reread unless I'm on a "Read the Series in Its Entirety" kick.
April 13, 2021
Through ten previous books I've found the Gold Hockey series to be an entertaining series with characters that have become like family. Though the premise of each book has been familiar, Ms. Faber has lovingly crafted each release to pull readers in wholeheartedly from the first page to the last. This latest release is another satisfying addition to the series, a romance of opposites attracting that sometimes frustrated me while constantly pulling at my heartstrings. The main couple are likable too with a romance that was a slow burn as each had emotional baggage to work through which had me cheering them on every step of the way.
When readers first meet Dani they see a woman with very low self-esteem, painfully low as even interacting with others makes her physically ill. Though she's great at her job, smart and capable, she just doesn't see it which has kept her alone when it comes to relationships. She's got emotional scars from a difficult childhood that have kept her from moving on and it hurt me to see how paralyzed she is when it comes to human connections. With each turn of the page though readers see Dani on her journey to self-improvement. With the sexy hockey star of her dreams in her life she starts taking baby steps that (though frustratingly slow) were oh so satisfying to see. I might've been frustrated by Dani numerous times early on, but I still liked her and could feel a kinship to her. It was a rocky start to her connection to Ethan, but seeing them together was utterly charming. They were a good support to each other, made each other feel emotionally stronger, and in a romance that slowly went from simmering to combustible their interactions had me glued to the pages. Ethan's a star of the hockey team but even he has feelings of inadequacy due to his highly intelligent parents. He doesn't feel like he measures up in their eyes and it's kept a wall between them which has left him leery of love (and trusting others) just like Dani. His issues weren't near as crippling as what Dani experienced but it was still sad to see. It was frustrating too because if only he had actually talked to his parents, so much pain could've been avoided from the start. His feelings though were a way to connect to Dani, so I put my frustrations aside in order to be charmed by their burgeoning relationship. Ethan was a patient man as he's been attracted to Dani for a long time...he was just waiting for the right time. Their pairing showed a couple that grew stronger the longer they were together. They made each other better and as they fell more in love with each other, I fell in love with them.
On a whole this was a well-crafted story that made me smile. It started off a bit rocky, a bit frustrating at times, but this couple still had me on their side from the start. Even though this is a series set in the hockey world, it's definitely teeming with emotions and sexual tension. Dani and Ethan's journey to self-empowerment was fueled by their growing love with action on the ice more of a backdrop this time around which made for s slow burn romance that was both sweet and sexy with a feel good ending. By the turn of the final page I was left smiling and content, ready to return to this entertaining series soon!
When readers first meet Dani they see a woman with very low self-esteem, painfully low as even interacting with others makes her physically ill. Though she's great at her job, smart and capable, she just doesn't see it which has kept her alone when it comes to relationships. She's got emotional scars from a difficult childhood that have kept her from moving on and it hurt me to see how paralyzed she is when it comes to human connections. With each turn of the page though readers see Dani on her journey to self-improvement. With the sexy hockey star of her dreams in her life she starts taking baby steps that (though frustratingly slow) were oh so satisfying to see. I might've been frustrated by Dani numerous times early on, but I still liked her and could feel a kinship to her. It was a rocky start to her connection to Ethan, but seeing them together was utterly charming. They were a good support to each other, made each other feel emotionally stronger, and in a romance that slowly went from simmering to combustible their interactions had me glued to the pages. Ethan's a star of the hockey team but even he has feelings of inadequacy due to his highly intelligent parents. He doesn't feel like he measures up in their eyes and it's kept a wall between them which has left him leery of love (and trusting others) just like Dani. His issues weren't near as crippling as what Dani experienced but it was still sad to see. It was frustrating too because if only he had actually talked to his parents, so much pain could've been avoided from the start. His feelings though were a way to connect to Dani, so I put my frustrations aside in order to be charmed by their burgeoning relationship. Ethan was a patient man as he's been attracted to Dani for a long time...he was just waiting for the right time. Their pairing showed a couple that grew stronger the longer they were together. They made each other better and as they fell more in love with each other, I fell in love with them.
On a whole this was a well-crafted story that made me smile. It started off a bit rocky, a bit frustrating at times, but this couple still had me on their side from the start. Even though this is a series set in the hockey world, it's definitely teeming with emotions and sexual tension. Dani and Ethan's journey to self-empowerment was fueled by their growing love with action on the ice more of a backdrop this time around which made for s slow burn romance that was both sweet and sexy with a feel good ending. By the turn of the final page I was left smiling and content, ready to return to this entertaining series soon!
April 12, 2021
I’m a big fan of Elise Faber’s and have loved the majority of her work. I state this here because it was the only reason I kept reading this book.
This book took me awhile to get engaged in because these two main characters have inner demons that keep them thinking they are less than they really are so both Dani and Ethan are tentative about reaching for what they want in a personal relationship. Both of them are successful in their careers and with other segments of their life, but they don’t really actively engage in personal relationships either romantically or socially. Most books the characters have a best friend or group of close friends that are referenced - these two mention teammates and coworkers in their inner dialogue.
Dani is also exceptionally shy and her past has left emotional scars that keep her caged off from quote unquote normal relationships, not because she doesn’t want them, but because she is fearful to the point of near panic attack-level of being hurt. Ethan is a highly intelligent and a professional athlete, but he feels less than because both of his parents are super intellectual and university professors.
I mention all of this because if you start this book thinking it’s a typical sports romance with the alpha athlete and a supercharged relationship you will find yourself lost and disappointed.
This is a very good story that is totally character driven and brings the reader on a journey. From both Dani and Ethan having fantasized about the other for a few years, to their initial angsty and awkward interactions, to Dani having gradually more comfort in being around Ethan, until finally when things hit the steamy level.
I pushed myself to keep reading through the first 30% of the book based my past enjoyment of so many books from this author in multiple series. I had faith she’d deliver a memorable story and I would end up enjoying the book. BUT the book would have been so much better if we had been given in the beginning a little more insight into who Dani was and why. This would allow readers to appreciate Dani and her progress as it happens in the story versus frankly being more than a bit frustrated and wondering how in the world this was going to turn into a romantic relationship in the time left in the book.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review. I am super excited to see what Elise has in store for us in Crashed, the next book in the Gold Hockey series.
This book took me awhile to get engaged in because these two main characters have inner demons that keep them thinking they are less than they really are so both Dani and Ethan are tentative about reaching for what they want in a personal relationship. Both of them are successful in their careers and with other segments of their life, but they don’t really actively engage in personal relationships either romantically or socially. Most books the characters have a best friend or group of close friends that are referenced - these two mention teammates and coworkers in their inner dialogue.
Dani is also exceptionally shy and her past has left emotional scars that keep her caged off from quote unquote normal relationships, not because she doesn’t want them, but because she is fearful to the point of near panic attack-level of being hurt. Ethan is a highly intelligent and a professional athlete, but he feels less than because both of his parents are super intellectual and university professors.
I mention all of this because if you start this book thinking it’s a typical sports romance with the alpha athlete and a supercharged relationship you will find yourself lost and disappointed.
This is a very good story that is totally character driven and brings the reader on a journey. From both Dani and Ethan having fantasized about the other for a few years, to their initial angsty and awkward interactions, to Dani having gradually more comfort in being around Ethan, until finally when things hit the steamy level.
I pushed myself to keep reading through the first 30% of the book based my past enjoyment of so many books from this author in multiple series. I had faith she’d deliver a memorable story and I would end up enjoying the book. BUT the book would have been so much better if we had been given in the beginning a little more insight into who Dani was and why. This would allow readers to appreciate Dani and her progress as it happens in the story versus frankly being more than a bit frustrated and wondering how in the world this was going to turn into a romantic relationship in the time left in the book.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review. I am super excited to see what Elise has in store for us in Crashed, the next book in the Gold Hockey series.
March 4, 2022
3.5-4 stars? Hey. At least I didn't dnf like so many other books before hand.
The beginning of this book was delicious!!!!!! Shy, quiet nerdy tech girl of the gold hockey team has had a crush on the H for years and he ALSO like liked her. A lot. Like, he wanted to pass her a note with a yes or no with boxes and ask her out but always looked at her from afar. I like that ish. He's also a smart, nerdy, getting his masters kind of dude and they geek out over these books about a boy wizard with a weird tattoo on his forehead. I think they're called Hairy Poopter.
The only thing I didn't like about this book were the situations that should have been angsty causing drama makers.....they were not really anything really drama worthy.... The expression making a mountain out of a little itty bitty ant hill applies here. When he tells her he loves her and asks her if she loves him, she shakes her head like she's trying to clear her mind. He thinks she's saying that she doesn't even though she was just in disbelief that he could love her. He pushes her away and they BREAK APART! The drama! The emotions! Mariah Carey was feeling the EMOTIONS!!!!! 😐 he thinks that he's pushing her too hard 🙄🙄🙄🙄😂 maybe I read too many dark romances cuz I wanted to tell him "bruh. You could be missing an eyeball or an arm dude! Trust me, you good!,"
Anyway, it made for a cute little grovel even though there was nothing to grovel for!!! what the smell.
First time reading her books and ill try the bad series she has later on!
The beginning of this book was delicious!!!!!! Shy, quiet nerdy tech girl of the gold hockey team has had a crush on the H for years and he ALSO like liked her. A lot. Like, he wanted to pass her a note with a yes or no with boxes and ask her out but always looked at her from afar. I like that ish. He's also a smart, nerdy, getting his masters kind of dude and they geek out over these books about a boy wizard with a weird tattoo on his forehead. I think they're called Hairy Poopter.
The only thing I didn't like about this book were the situations that should have been angsty causing drama makers.....they were not really anything really drama worthy.... The expression making a mountain out of a little itty bitty ant hill applies here. When he tells her he loves her and asks her if she loves him, she shakes her head like she's trying to clear her mind. He thinks she's saying that she doesn't even though she was just in disbelief that he could love her. He pushes her away and they BREAK APART! The drama! The emotions! Mariah Carey was feeling the EMOTIONS!!!!! 😐 he thinks that he's pushing her too hard 🙄🙄🙄🙄😂 maybe I read too many dark romances cuz I wanted to tell him "bruh. You could be missing an eyeball or an arm dude! Trust me, you good!,"
Anyway, it made for a cute little grovel even though there was nothing to grovel for!!! what the smell.
First time reading her books and ill try the bad series she has later on!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2021
This is the eleventh book of the Gold Hockey series and I like that the team is one big family. You meet most of the characters over and over again, it's a bit like being a fan of the team. Ethan is very intelligent but still goes his way as a professional field hockey player. Dani is a nerd, and she likes computers better than people. She is very shy, and she has also experienced some unpleasant things in her life. The two yearn for each other for years before Ethan gets the courage to ask Dani out. Dani's shyness makes her uncomfortable, and she doesn't believe that a hot guy like Ethan could really be interested in her.
This book is in equal parts about romantic love or being in love and about self-love and self-esteem. This causes problems for Ethan, who has extremely intelligent and successful parents. And Dani feels very uncomfortable in her skin and her head.
I liked the book very much, and I think the subject of self - love is very well described. Instead of big dramas in the past, here are quiet creeping problems that can weigh a person down quite a bit and although the environment and family love you, you have to love yourself first to find happiness. Ethan impressed me with his patience and strength, he's a great guy and everything fits together. And Dani takes forever to thaw out, but as a reader you are all the more happy about her happiness.
A great book with wonderful characters.
This book is in equal parts about romantic love or being in love and about self-love and self-esteem. This causes problems for Ethan, who has extremely intelligent and successful parents. And Dani feels very uncomfortable in her skin and her head.
I liked the book very much, and I think the subject of self - love is very well described. Instead of big dramas in the past, here are quiet creeping problems that can weigh a person down quite a bit and although the environment and family love you, you have to love yourself first to find happiness. Ethan impressed me with his patience and strength, he's a great guy and everything fits together. And Dani takes forever to thaw out, but as a reader you are all the more happy about her happiness.
A great book with wonderful characters.
April 16, 2021
The teddy bear with a “Big, Juicy Brain” and the painfully shy video coach.
This latest installment of Gold Hockey is thee epitome of RomCom in a way that will definitely pull at your heartstrings while you have a front seat to the game of will-they, won’t-they that Dani and Ethan commence to embark on, bumbling in both hysterical and heartrending ways due to each of their own insecurities. To learn that both have pining after the other since practically the moment the became aware of each other’s existence, and that the biggest obstacles in their way are...themselves, really invests the reader in their love story.
I love so much about this, it was hard to put down for ANYthing. Ethan’s patience, quiet ambition, and intuitiveness make him the perfect man for Dani and her crippling shyness—as well as her surprising temper tantrums. I mean, I love all of Elise’s heroes, but I’d really like me an Ethan. He’s liable to be one of my all-time favorites, despite the fact that my favorite heroes and heroines are inevitably the main characters of my latest read.
A good fit for anyone who’s a fan, new to the series, or just loves a good sports romance. And a definite recommend for anyone who’s fond of Helena Hunting’s Pucked series, especially if your favorite couple from that universe if Violet and Alex. This reminds me of them in the best ways, while being distinctly Gold Hockey and showcasing their big, close-knit family.
This latest installment of Gold Hockey is thee epitome of RomCom in a way that will definitely pull at your heartstrings while you have a front seat to the game of will-they, won’t-they that Dani and Ethan commence to embark on, bumbling in both hysterical and heartrending ways due to each of their own insecurities. To learn that both have pining after the other since practically the moment the became aware of each other’s existence, and that the biggest obstacles in their way are...themselves, really invests the reader in their love story.
I love so much about this, it was hard to put down for ANYthing. Ethan’s patience, quiet ambition, and intuitiveness make him the perfect man for Dani and her crippling shyness—as well as her surprising temper tantrums. I mean, I love all of Elise’s heroes, but I’d really like me an Ethan. He’s liable to be one of my all-time favorites, despite the fact that my favorite heroes and heroines are inevitably the main characters of my latest read.
A good fit for anyone who’s a fan, new to the series, or just loves a good sports romance. And a definite recommend for anyone who’s fond of Helena Hunting’s Pucked series, especially if your favorite couple from that universe if Violet and Alex. This reminds me of them in the best ways, while being distinctly Gold Hockey and showcasing their big, close-knit family.
November 19, 2021
Caged is the eleventh book in the Gold Hockey series. It is a stand alone, but if you read the series, it truly feels like a family and you can enjoy the richness of the other characters, too. Dani is painfully shy, but when Ethan asks her out on a date, she has to refuse him. But Ethan won’t take no for an answer, and he slowly woos her. Will their insecurities get in their way of a happy relationship, or can they heal their past hurts by being together?
Oh my goodness, I adored this book! I’m finding that Ms. Faber does an amazing job with setting up the characters, getting to know some of their history, and getting slowly more and more invested, and then next thing I know, I can’t put the book down! Dani and Ethan completely captivated me, stole my heart, and I couldn’t help but swoon over these two! Dani is so sweet, but almost painfully shy due to her past. I think my favorite part of this whole romance was her coming into her own strength and realizing her own worth. Ethan was perfect for her, patient, loving, caring, brainy, and full of steamy adventure and romance. I loved how much he cared for Dani, and I loved that he also needed to find some love for himself. I adored them together. I loved their steam, but I loved their vulnerable moments, too. It was super fun seeing some characters from previous books and I think it’s amazing how much of a family this hockey team is and how well they support each other. I loved this book! I can’t wait to read more!
Oh my goodness, I adored this book! I’m finding that Ms. Faber does an amazing job with setting up the characters, getting to know some of their history, and getting slowly more and more invested, and then next thing I know, I can’t put the book down! Dani and Ethan completely captivated me, stole my heart, and I couldn’t help but swoon over these two! Dani is so sweet, but almost painfully shy due to her past. I think my favorite part of this whole romance was her coming into her own strength and realizing her own worth. Ethan was perfect for her, patient, loving, caring, brainy, and full of steamy adventure and romance. I loved how much he cared for Dani, and I loved that he also needed to find some love for himself. I adored them together. I loved their steam, but I loved their vulnerable moments, too. It was super fun seeing some characters from previous books and I think it’s amazing how much of a family this hockey team is and how well they support each other. I loved this book! I can’t wait to read more!
April 13, 2021
This is a wonderful book about opposites attracting and self image harming relationships. I found it interesting that both thought they weren’t good enough for the other. Deep seated issues from when they were younger messed with them and stopped them from acting on the attraction for awhile.
I adored Ethan. Even when she was pushing him away, he never gave up (once he asked her out). He was so sweet and patient and never rushed her. He understood and loved that she was shy. His issues stem from his parents, he knows they love him, but he believes he has never measured up to what they wanted him to be. I do wish that the conversation his mom told him was going to happen, would have.
I liked Dani, but found her to be annoying at times. Once she told him the truth about why she was the way she was, it made more sense, but I wish she would have realized some things earlier. No one should have to go through what she did when she was younger and I was glad to see his reaction when she told him.
I enjoyed this book and the reason I gave this 4.5 stars is due to the fact that some parts seemed to not be finished. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book, the one chapter we got intrigued me. The entire series is great and I highly recommend it. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.
I adored Ethan. Even when she was pushing him away, he never gave up (once he asked her out). He was so sweet and patient and never rushed her. He understood and loved that she was shy. His issues stem from his parents, he knows they love him, but he believes he has never measured up to what they wanted him to be. I do wish that the conversation his mom told him was going to happen, would have.
I liked Dani, but found her to be annoying at times. Once she told him the truth about why she was the way she was, it made more sense, but I wish she would have realized some things earlier. No one should have to go through what she did when she was younger and I was glad to see his reaction when she told him.
I enjoyed this book and the reason I gave this 4.5 stars is due to the fact that some parts seemed to not be finished. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book, the one chapter we got intrigued me. The entire series is great and I highly recommend it. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.
April 11, 2021
This is book 11 in the series and easily stands alone. Its not heavy on hockey but heavy on romance. This story is about Dani. who is the hockey teams Video/IT manager and Ethan, who is the goalie. Its a at work romance in the sports world with two people who have been crushing on each other.
Dani is a hot mess and I say that in the kindest way. At times I felt she was shy but it was more than that, it seemed like she was afraid of men. But the book just says she was a victim of bullying when she was younger. She definitely makes Ethan work for even one date.
Ethan, well he really goes all out there to try and win Dani's heart. Seriously she rejects him over and over, runs away from him time after time and he just keeps trying because he has such a crush on her. I truly was amazed how honest he is with her while trying to convince her to date him.
This was a good story but I felt that Dani needed a lot more depth to her and for me to understand why she treated Ethan badly and refused to believe him about his attraction to her. Aside from that I really enjoyed this story.
I received a free ARC copy of this book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dani is a hot mess and I say that in the kindest way. At times I felt she was shy but it was more than that, it seemed like she was afraid of men. But the book just says she was a victim of bullying when she was younger. She definitely makes Ethan work for even one date.
Ethan, well he really goes all out there to try and win Dani's heart. Seriously she rejects him over and over, runs away from him time after time and he just keeps trying because he has such a crush on her. I truly was amazed how honest he is with her while trying to convince her to date him.
This was a good story but I felt that Dani needed a lot more depth to her and for me to understand why she treated Ethan badly and refused to believe him about his attraction to her. Aside from that I really enjoyed this story.
I received a free ARC copy of this book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 19, 2022
Difficult to get through…
First, the amount of inner dialog Dani was provided was super excessive. I struggled to finish this book after racing through most of the previous Gold Franchise as well as some of her other series. Honestly, around 40% is where the inner thoughts finally became secondary to the actual story. Should come with a trigger warning for those of us with anxiety and depression, “for those with mental health issue, please forward to page….” How many in this series is about women with crippling anxiety??
After she got her emotional backpack tightened up, around 70%, the story went much smoother and read well; it was much easier to finish.
Additionally, some political ideology is inserted in this book, specifically this quote from page 125 (on the kindle app), “She should be like the other women of the Gold—strong and confident and woke and . . . lots of other things. Equality for all, including the shy, dorky girls. Confidence for days.” IMHO, if it’s the author or the editing team, just leave this stuff out of entertainment books or risk losing customers aka fans. This one was rough to get through, I wouldn’t have bought additional books from the author if I had read this one first.
First, the amount of inner dialog Dani was provided was super excessive. I struggled to finish this book after racing through most of the previous Gold Franchise as well as some of her other series. Honestly, around 40% is where the inner thoughts finally became secondary to the actual story. Should come with a trigger warning for those of us with anxiety and depression, “for those with mental health issue, please forward to page….” How many in this series is about women with crippling anxiety??
After she got her emotional backpack tightened up, around 70%, the story went much smoother and read well; it was much easier to finish.
Additionally, some political ideology is inserted in this book, specifically this quote from page 125 (on the kindle app), “She should be like the other women of the Gold—strong and confident and woke and . . . lots of other things. Equality for all, including the shy, dorky girls. Confidence for days.” IMHO, if it’s the author or the editing team, just leave this stuff out of entertainment books or risk losing customers aka fans. This one was rough to get through, I wouldn’t have bought additional books from the author if I had read this one first.
April 10, 2021
This is another great addition to the Gold Hockey series. I love when books in a series seamlessly intertwine with each other. If you read one in the middle, you never feel lost because the author does a great job making sure nothing is left out.
Dani works for the Gold Hockey team and is shy and little socially awkward. Ethan is on the team and has been attracted to Dani since the first moment he laid eyes on her. Ethan did what he could so she would notice him but Dani oblivious because she’s not confident in herself. However, Ethan isn’t one to give up. These two have so much in common that they are meant for each other.
I loved Dani! She was so relatable as a character that I instantly fell for her. The shy girl who was in the background, unsure of herself. I loved watching her blossom in this story. And Ethan is a super kind, hot cinnabon kind of guy. You gotta love a man with that much patience. Not overwhelming Dani or being that guy who keeps pushing until she goes on a date with him. That was so refreshing! This story made me smile and sigh in content, a perfect combo!
Dani works for the Gold Hockey team and is shy and little socially awkward. Ethan is on the team and has been attracted to Dani since the first moment he laid eyes on her. Ethan did what he could so she would notice him but Dani oblivious because she’s not confident in herself. However, Ethan isn’t one to give up. These two have so much in common that they are meant for each other.
I loved Dani! She was so relatable as a character that I instantly fell for her. The shy girl who was in the background, unsure of herself. I loved watching her blossom in this story. And Ethan is a super kind, hot cinnabon kind of guy. You gotta love a man with that much patience. Not overwhelming Dani or being that guy who keeps pushing until she goes on a date with him. That was so refreshing! This story made me smile and sigh in content, a perfect combo!
April 12, 2021
The Gold hockey team brings the heat, on and off the ice.
Dani, video coach for the team, is happy spending the games recording, creating clips for the players to learn from, hidden away in her office. She is painfully shy, and interactions with people are a struggle for her. And her attraction to Ethan makes her clam up.
But Ethan - he's had it bad for Dani since he joined the team two years ago. And finally, *finally* he's ready to do something about it. He know's Dani is shy, know's he has a lot of work to break down the walls she's erected, but he's up to the task. And I fell a little in love with him myself as he went about wooing her.
Caged was such a sweet, tender book. Ethan is so patient, and so completely smitten, that he will do literally anything to spend a little time with Dani. And those walls Dani built up, they're beginning to crumble. I adored these two... and when the rest of the Gold got in on helping Ethan out, I was reminded again that this team is a family - they will do anything for each other. Definitely another winner.
Dani, video coach for the team, is happy spending the games recording, creating clips for the players to learn from, hidden away in her office. She is painfully shy, and interactions with people are a struggle for her. And her attraction to Ethan makes her clam up.
But Ethan - he's had it bad for Dani since he joined the team two years ago. And finally, *finally* he's ready to do something about it. He know's Dani is shy, know's he has a lot of work to break down the walls she's erected, but he's up to the task. And I fell a little in love with him myself as he went about wooing her.
Caged was such a sweet, tender book. Ethan is so patient, and so completely smitten, that he will do literally anything to spend a little time with Dani. And those walls Dani built up, they're beginning to crumble. I adored these two... and when the rest of the Gold got in on helping Ethan out, I was reminded again that this team is a family - they will do anything for each other. Definitely another winner.
April 3, 2021
Caged is another one of Elise Faber's must reads.
"I like you, Ethan Korhonen."
"Well, right back at you, Dani Eastbrooke."
Dani & Ethan have been attracted to each other for almost two years. Dani has held back because of her insecurities. Ethan, on the other hand, has been quietly working on a strategy to coolly and smartly ask her out so she doesn't outright reject him before he can prove that they belong together. But both have some soul searching to do before they can give each other the best versions of themselves.
This romance stirred me up in all the best ways. This series has characters that you can't help but love, and Dani & Ethan are no different. Their story drew me in and wrapped me up in it so quickly that I couldn't put my phone down until I was done. I loved it so much.
"How did I look at you?"
"Like you saw me."
I loved the epilogues and am super excited for book 12.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.
"I like you, Ethan Korhonen."
"Well, right back at you, Dani Eastbrooke."
Dani & Ethan have been attracted to each other for almost two years. Dani has held back because of her insecurities. Ethan, on the other hand, has been quietly working on a strategy to coolly and smartly ask her out so she doesn't outright reject him before he can prove that they belong together. But both have some soul searching to do before they can give each other the best versions of themselves.
This romance stirred me up in all the best ways. This series has characters that you can't help but love, and Dani & Ethan are no different. Their story drew me in and wrapped me up in it so quickly that I couldn't put my phone down until I was done. I loved it so much.
"How did I look at you?"
"Like you saw me."
I loved the epilogues and am super excited for book 12.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.
April 11, 2021
I adore books where the shy extrovert gets her happily ever after. In this case it was fun watching Ethan completely win over Dani's heart. Oh he already had it after years of her watching him from the shadows. But he had to win over her self doubts and fear. The whole thing just felt anticlimactic though. They love each other, but both have feelings of low self worth. I liked these two but I think I would have loved them more if one or the other had just yelled at the other person instead of avoiding and walking away. I needed real hard emotion and I think these two lacked it just a bit.
This series has been great. I've loved getting to know the new characters and seeing some old ones. But I think I'm slowly running my course with this group. Fanny's story does have me intrigued though. I may have to hold out for her.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review*
This series has been great. I've loved getting to know the new characters and seeing some old ones. But I think I'm slowly running my course with this group. Fanny's story does have me intrigued though. I may have to hold out for her.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review*
April 6, 2021
Dani Eastbrooke is as shy as can be, has panic attacks and social anxiety that came about after an incident in high school. She works for the San Francisco Gold hockey franchise as a video coach and spends her days wrapped up studying tapes and preparing clips for the players and away from others and that works for her.
Ethan Korhonen is one of the players on the team and has loved Dani from afar for several years. Funny thing, Dani has felt the same about Ethan but is too afraid to talk to him for fear he will turn her away. Ethan has always felt he wasn't smart like his parents and wasn't too sure of himself either.
Can these two find each other? Can the walls come down or will the panic attacks take over?
This is a sweet story of a big hockey player who has a big heart and will do anything to see Dani smile.
4 stars
Ethan Korhonen is one of the players on the team and has loved Dani from afar for several years. Funny thing, Dani has felt the same about Ethan but is too afraid to talk to him for fear he will turn her away. Ethan has always felt he wasn't smart like his parents and wasn't too sure of himself either.
Can these two find each other? Can the walls come down or will the panic attacks take over?
This is a sweet story of a big hockey player who has a big heart and will do anything to see Dani smile.
4 stars
April 7, 2021
Another great add to this series. I mean come on, who doesn't like the sweet, sensitive, patient guy? And did I mention that he's insanely hawt?
Dani prefers to be behind the scenes, going unnoticed, blending in. It's safer that way. Early on it's apparent that there was something that happened to make her feel this way. Ethan, on the other hand is outgoing and athletic, though he also has a softer side, that few really get to see. I did like the little twist of uncertainty within him, just goes to show that everyone has doubts.
I liked that they both really 'saw' each other, that they both were interested but neither acted on it, the slow build, the way that others rallied around when needed, the character connections, not just between Dani and Ethan, are strong and what makes this series that much better.
Dani prefers to be behind the scenes, going unnoticed, blending in. It's safer that way. Early on it's apparent that there was something that happened to make her feel this way. Ethan, on the other hand is outgoing and athletic, though he also has a softer side, that few really get to see. I did like the little twist of uncertainty within him, just goes to show that everyone has doubts.
I liked that they both really 'saw' each other, that they both were interested but neither acted on it, the slow build, the way that others rallied around when needed, the character connections, not just between Dani and Ethan, are strong and what makes this series that much better.
April 10, 2021
Dani Eastbrooke is the tech wizard for the Gold Hockey team but hidden behind the technology facade is a painfully shy woman with crippling social anxiety. So, any feelings that Dani has for yummy Ethan, are kept inside and dreamed about from afar. What Dani doesn't realize is that Ethan, the 6ft 5in hockey player for the Gold has had feelings for Dani for the past two years and has decided that now is the time to make his move. But when fear cripples Dani, Ethan has to change his approach and try to win her over. But with self doubt derailing Dani at every turn, Ethan has to overcome his own insecurities to show Dani how wonderful life could be. These two have sizzling chemistry and you can feel how Dani struggles with her inner thoughts and pushes out of her comfort zone to move the relationship forward. Love this series.
April 11, 2021
This is the 11th book in this amazing series and is Ethan and Dani’s story. Ethan is a professional athlete and Dani work for the team behind the scenes where she prefers to blend into the background unnoticed. Dani is exceptionally shy, and her past has left her with debilitating panic attacks, and she and Ethan have loved each other from the moment they met. Ethan has been patiently waiting for the right time to ask Dani out. These two have more in common than they think, and they are both vulnerable by their pasts. This is a well written tale with engaging and relatable characters, and is fun, entertaining, sweet, and with romance, emotions, and love, which leads to a steamy and addictive page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
April 12, 2021
Elise Faber gets a win with CAGED (Gold Hockey #11). San Francisco Gold hockey video coach Dani Eastbrooke is painfully shy. Hockey star Ethan Korhonen has been attracted to Dani for ages. After finally asking her out she says no. Luckily, Ethan is patient and persistent. This contemporary sports romance is suitable for adult readers.
CAGED is a heartfelt and sweet story. Dani and Ethan both had things that happened in their childhood that make them insecure. They have some misunderstandings. The two build a friendship and relationship that help them overcome their issues.
The story is beautifully written and a great addition to the Gold Hockey series. CAGED could be read as a stand-alone but is better if read in order since previous characters play a roll in this story. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
CAGED is a heartfelt and sweet story. Dani and Ethan both had things that happened in their childhood that make them insecure. They have some misunderstandings. The two build a friendship and relationship that help them overcome their issues.
The story is beautifully written and a great addition to the Gold Hockey series. CAGED could be read as a stand-alone but is better if read in order since previous characters play a roll in this story. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
April 13, 2021
I really enjoyed this story. It was about Ethan, a hockey superstar, and Dani, a shy, a little bit nerdy fild coach. These two characters connection was awesome and I really enjoyed the communication between them. I really liked Dani because she reminds me of many every day people and I could definitelt consider being in her shoes. This story was steamy and grabbed my attention from the start and this was my first Gold Hockey book that I've read but I did not feel left out at all. I liked learning about some of the other players on Ethan's team and I will definitely be checking out the other books now as well. I would defintiely recommend this book to people who love romances that have a captivating story with extremely likable characters. I received a free advance review copy of this story and am leaving a voluntary honest review.
April 17, 2021
Here we meet Ethan and Dani in book 11 of the Gold hockey series. Ethan is a professional hockey player that literally wears his heart on his sleeve and he has been crushing on Dani for the longest. She works for the team behind the scenes dealing with technical things. Dani is extremely shy and closed off and not much of a people person.
Ethan finally decides to ask Dani out but gets shot down. Even though Dani thinks he is the sexist man to ever walk she doesn’t think she is enough for him. I loved how persistent and patient Ethan was. He slowly built up her trust and love. I feel like their story is relatable and some people could resonate with Dani. This book had great banter and realistic emotion. I love how sweet they were together and seeing them fall in love was like....sigh. I can’t wait to dive into her future hockey books.
Ethan finally decides to ask Dani out but gets shot down. Even though Dani thinks he is the sexist man to ever walk she doesn’t think she is enough for him. I loved how persistent and patient Ethan was. He slowly built up her trust and love. I feel like their story is relatable and some people could resonate with Dani. This book had great banter and realistic emotion. I love how sweet they were together and seeing them fall in love was like....sigh. I can’t wait to dive into her future hockey books.
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