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Carolina Reapers #6
Sterling
It’s my first day back with the Carolina Reapers and the elevator just stopped.
At least I’m in here with the girl of my dreams.
London Foster is smart, sexy, and everything I’ve ever wanted—
Until the elevator doors finally open and she runs right into my biological brother’s arms.
Maxim is everything I hate—the chosen son who wasn’t a dirty little secret.
I grew up with a hardworking single mom.
He had a perfect family with our NHL legend father.
Not only is his arm around London, he’s just been signed to the Reapers.
He might have history with London,
But I’m ready to fight for her future.
Our chemistry can’t be matched—she walks into the room and we’re on fire.
And the way she sighs my name? Perfection.
But she’s our new game day coordinator, and to keep her position, we have to keep ours under wraps.
And with my brother fighting for her at every turn?
The secrets between us could be enough to send us all up in flames.
At least I’m in here with the girl of my dreams.
London Foster is smart, sexy, and everything I’ve ever wanted—
Until the elevator doors finally open and she runs right into my biological brother’s arms.
Maxim is everything I hate—the chosen son who wasn’t a dirty little secret.
I grew up with a hardworking single mom.
He had a perfect family with our NHL legend father.
Not only is his arm around London, he’s just been signed to the Reapers.
He might have history with London,
But I’m ready to fight for her future.
Our chemistry can’t be matched—she walks into the room and we’re on fire.
And the way she sighs my name? Perfection.
But she’s our new game day coordinator, and to keep her position, we have to keep ours under wraps.
And with my brother fighting for her at every turn?
The secrets between us could be enough to send us all up in flames.
295 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 25, 2020
1315 people are currently reading
2804 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Whiskey
44 books2,786 followersSamantha Whiskey is a wife, mom, lover of her dogs and romance novels. No stranger to hockey, hot alpha males, and a high dose of awkwardness, she tucks herself away to write books her PTA will never know about.
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January 18, 2021
So disappointed.
I’ve read all of Samantha Whiskey’s books and this one is one of my least favorites. Written in dual first person POV. Lots of sexy times. No real humor but I wasn’t really expecting any. I had issues with the plot and female main character, London, who we met in Hendrix’s book (book 3 of the Raleigh Raptors series), but this book can still be read as a standalone. There are updates on many of the other Reapers so you’ll probably enjoy this book more if you’ve read the other Reapers books.
No real spoilers, but here’s a little more info on my female MC and plot issues...
London is described as smart and career driven, yet we’re not given any information on her college degree or her future career plans. All we know is that she is one of two Game Day Coordinators and that she’s in competition with the other guy for the job (only one GDC is needed). She doesn’t want to get the job because of who she knows (her brother Cas and his best friend Maxim are both on the team) or who she’s dating (Sterling), which I can respect. Because of this, she wants to keep any relationship she has with Sterling a secret, which she should realize (at least after a little while) would hurt him because his existence was kept a secret. Her repeated insistence that Sterling and Maxim should get along or resolve whatever their arguments are just because they are related is ridiculous and Sterling shouldn’t have to tell her that point blank in order for her to get it.
Sterling and London’s meet cute was nice. It was a good way to introduce the characters to each other and show London’s vulnerability and Sterling’s compassion. London learns a little bit about Sterling’s family (which is really only his mom) in this scene and then immediately forgets it once she’s out of the elevator. The plot revolves around an arrangement - Sterling will participate in a “brothers” campaign for London which will advance her career if London will work on her claustrophobia with Sterling which will help her but allow Sterling to spend time with her. Win-win except London really wins. I had so many problems with this:
1. London is “smart” and Langley is smart (proven in previous books, at least in a PR capacity) but neither one stops to think “hey, Maxim is only 3 months older than Sterling, they don’t have the same last name and no one knew they were related except for one other player, so maybe they don’t have a good relationship and wouldn’t be the best poster boys for a “brothers” campaign.”
2. London works with the team and has been calling/texting Sterling for a month but he won’t answer/respond so she doesn’t get a chance to tell him about the campaign. So she just volunteers him for it. How is it possible that they wouldn’t run into each other in the arena during that month so she could mention it? How is it okay for Sterling to ignore someone in PR? Why wouldn’t Langley mention it to Sterling when she saw him considering the date of the shoot is coming up and her husband is team captain?
3. London knows enough about his history to know the campaign is not a good idea but instead of coming up with another idea, she selfishly tells Langley that he’ll do it. Maybe we weren’t given details of how she tried to give other ideas during the month and talk Langley out of it but it’s such a bad idea that I just have to mention it again. Axel’s brother, Tage, plays hockey and got hurt in Axel’s book. Axel basically raised his brother and their relationship would be perfect for a “brothers” charity campaign, especially since I’ve been dying for an update on Tage since he got hurt. Hudson’s brother plays baseball for a Carolina team. Nathan’s brother plays football for a Raleigh team. Clearly there were other options so it makes the “need” for Sterling to do the campaign ridiculous.
Overall, I felt like London was a selfish idiot and didn’t deserve Sterling, which made their “big fight” at the end even worse.
I’ve read all of Samantha Whiskey’s books and this one is one of my least favorites. Written in dual first person POV. Lots of sexy times. No real humor but I wasn’t really expecting any. I had issues with the plot and female main character, London, who we met in Hendrix’s book (book 3 of the Raleigh Raptors series), but this book can still be read as a standalone. There are updates on many of the other Reapers so you’ll probably enjoy this book more if you’ve read the other Reapers books.
No real spoilers, but here’s a little more info on my female MC and plot issues...
London is described as smart and career driven, yet we’re not given any information on her college degree or her future career plans. All we know is that she is one of two Game Day Coordinators and that she’s in competition with the other guy for the job (only one GDC is needed). She doesn’t want to get the job because of who she knows (her brother Cas and his best friend Maxim are both on the team) or who she’s dating (Sterling), which I can respect. Because of this, she wants to keep any relationship she has with Sterling a secret, which she should realize (at least after a little while) would hurt him because his existence was kept a secret. Her repeated insistence that Sterling and Maxim should get along or resolve whatever their arguments are just because they are related is ridiculous and Sterling shouldn’t have to tell her that point blank in order for her to get it.
Sterling and London’s meet cute was nice. It was a good way to introduce the characters to each other and show London’s vulnerability and Sterling’s compassion. London learns a little bit about Sterling’s family (which is really only his mom) in this scene and then immediately forgets it once she’s out of the elevator. The plot revolves around an arrangement - Sterling will participate in a “brothers” campaign for London which will advance her career if London will work on her claustrophobia with Sterling which will help her but allow Sterling to spend time with her. Win-win except London really wins. I had so many problems with this:
1. London is “smart” and Langley is smart (proven in previous books, at least in a PR capacity) but neither one stops to think “hey, Maxim is only 3 months older than Sterling, they don’t have the same last name and no one knew they were related except for one other player, so maybe they don’t have a good relationship and wouldn’t be the best poster boys for a “brothers” campaign.”
2. London works with the team and has been calling/texting Sterling for a month but he won’t answer/respond so she doesn’t get a chance to tell him about the campaign. So she just volunteers him for it. How is it possible that they wouldn’t run into each other in the arena during that month so she could mention it? How is it okay for Sterling to ignore someone in PR? Why wouldn’t Langley mention it to Sterling when she saw him considering the date of the shoot is coming up and her husband is team captain?
3. London knows enough about his history to know the campaign is not a good idea but instead of coming up with another idea, she selfishly tells Langley that he’ll do it. Maybe we weren’t given details of how she tried to give other ideas during the month and talk Langley out of it but it’s such a bad idea that I just have to mention it again. Axel’s brother, Tage, plays hockey and got hurt in Axel’s book. Axel basically raised his brother and their relationship would be perfect for a “brothers” charity campaign, especially since I’ve been dying for an update on Tage since he got hurt. Hudson’s brother plays baseball for a Carolina team. Nathan’s brother plays football for a Raleigh team. Clearly there were other options so it makes the “need” for Sterling to do the campaign ridiculous.
Overall, I felt like London was a selfish idiot and didn’t deserve Sterling, which made their “big fight” at the end even worse.
January 2, 2021
4 1/2 stars
Pretty darn steamy...hoping for books for Briggs or Maxim or ‘Demon’ next...
Not too much angst in this one other than the hatred between goalie Jansen Sterling and his biological half brother Maxim Zolotov and the a**hole father they both share. I wished there was a little more time for Maxim and Jansen to work out their differences, but maybe that will come in a future book.
The relationship between Sterling and London Foster (who worked as the newly hired game day coordinator for the Reapers) was really sweet and super steamy. Not much I can say against it. They seemed to have little trouble communicating and not a whole lot of drama besides London’s desire to keep their relationship secret for a while. This sort of played on Sterling‘s insecurities of not being ‘wanted’ or ‘good enough’, but they acted like adults and worked it out.
Really enjoying this series and I’m ready for more—plenty of interesting guys still left on this team!
Pretty darn steamy...hoping for books for Briggs or Maxim or ‘Demon’ next...
Not too much angst in this one other than the hatred between goalie Jansen Sterling and his biological half brother Maxim Zolotov and the a**hole father they both share. I wished there was a little more time for Maxim and Jansen to work out their differences, but maybe that will come in a future book.
The relationship between Sterling and London Foster (who worked as the newly hired game day coordinator for the Reapers) was really sweet and super steamy. Not much I can say against it. They seemed to have little trouble communicating and not a whole lot of drama besides London’s desire to keep their relationship secret for a while. This sort of played on Sterling‘s insecurities of not being ‘wanted’ or ‘good enough’, but they acted like adults and worked it out.
Really enjoying this series and I’m ready for more—plenty of interesting guys still left on this team!
December 26, 2020
Yesssss, that is really all I can say about this book. Since we were teased with the possibility of these two in Hendrix I’ve been dying for this story and boy does it not disappoint. These two are electric together and oh my the character growth of each of them as individuals and a couple is pure perfection!
August 22, 2021
Reread Sterling and liked it much better the second time around. So I increased my stars to 4 full rather than 3.5. The editing still bothered me but the book itself and the storyline had more to it than I gave it credit for, except the stuff with his brother, that could have been deeper and more delved into.
I have to say I was a little disappointed in this one, and I am a huge Samantha Whiskey fan. I absolutely loved Cannon which was a five star read. First thing that made me crazy was the amount of grammatical errors. The editing in this book was awful. Even Jansens first name was spelled incorrectly at one point. So whoever edited this book really needs to be replaced or a much longer deadline was needed? Was this rushed for publication? I also felt that Sterling was heavy on the sex and light on the substance. There was so much that could have been explored in Sterling and London’s book. Sterling’s relationship with his biological brother for one. They are on the same team yet hardly ever conversed? Never explored the anger or bitterness toward on another. I just felt that it was missing some fundamental character development. I truly was looking forward to London and Sterlings love story and her character was great, this could have been a much better book. My overall experience: Decent read and mostly enjoyable just a bit short on depth.
I have to say I was a little disappointed in this one, and I am a huge Samantha Whiskey fan. I absolutely loved Cannon which was a five star read. First thing that made me crazy was the amount of grammatical errors. The editing in this book was awful. Even Jansens first name was spelled incorrectly at one point. So whoever edited this book really needs to be replaced or a much longer deadline was needed? Was this rushed for publication? I also felt that Sterling was heavy on the sex and light on the substance. There was so much that could have been explored in Sterling and London’s book. Sterling’s relationship with his biological brother for one. They are on the same team yet hardly ever conversed? Never explored the anger or bitterness toward on another. I just felt that it was missing some fundamental character development. I truly was looking forward to London and Sterlings love story and her character was great, this could have been a much better book. My overall experience: Decent read and mostly enjoyable just a bit short on depth.
December 29, 2020
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋💋
Fantastic book and series.
Samantha’s Carolina Reaper’s are a force to be reckoned with, strong alpha males who have a heart and a tendency to fall in love in a spectacular way.
Sterling takes the ride on his life in a lift with the sister( who happens to be claustrophobic), of a teammate.
By the end of the journey with London, he smitten, but does she feel the same, and does he have competition for her heart.
So good with all the feels and passion you would expect from one of Ms Whiskey’s books.
Full five stars.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋💋
Fantastic book and series.
Samantha’s Carolina Reaper’s are a force to be reckoned with, strong alpha males who have a heart and a tendency to fall in love in a spectacular way.
Sterling takes the ride on his life in a lift with the sister( who happens to be claustrophobic), of a teammate.
By the end of the journey with London, he smitten, but does she feel the same, and does he have competition for her heart.
So good with all the feels and passion you would expect from one of Ms Whiskey’s books.
Full five stars.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
June 28, 2022
not my fav read, especially after cannon and persephone. the start was also kinda confusing because we werent made aware that sterling was traded, then he came back to the reapers.
**spoilers**
i wouldve liked it better if there was a proper timeline established, because the book says its been 3yrs since the end of cannon, but then that would mean that persephone would’ve given birth to her and cannon’s child. however, the book also mentioned that persephone and cannon were newlyweds so idk it was just one big confusion party that i did not want to attend🤷♀️
**spoilers**
i wouldve liked it better if there was a proper timeline established, because the book says its been 3yrs since the end of cannon, but then that would mean that persephone would’ve given birth to her and cannon’s child. however, the book also mentioned that persephone and cannon were newlyweds so idk it was just one big confusion party that i did not want to attend🤷♀️
January 27, 2021
London is the worst
I never write a bad review but I don't see how you can call this romance. Sterling did nothing wrong and London was so selfish. Everything was about her wants and needs from the very beginning. Not once did she put Sterling first. Her job was to set up the promo with the two brothers. So she ask one brother and Sterling has no warning and has to do it to make her happy. Then she doesn't want a relationship so he settled with helping her out with her fears. Then she wants a relationship but he has to keep it a secret. Then when it's found out she believes someone else. If I was his mom I would have found this girl and gave her more than a piece of my mind. Last but not least when she does figure out the truth does she go and beg for forgiveness. NO she waits for him to come to her. If I could have reach through my kindle and B slapped her I would have. Really this whole bad review boils down to one thing. I could have forgiven London for everything she did if she was the one to beg for forgiveness. If she did one thing to prove that she put Sterling and their love first it would have redeemed this whole book for me. But hay this is just my opinion.
I never write a bad review but I don't see how you can call this romance. Sterling did nothing wrong and London was so selfish. Everything was about her wants and needs from the very beginning. Not once did she put Sterling first. Her job was to set up the promo with the two brothers. So she ask one brother and Sterling has no warning and has to do it to make her happy. Then she doesn't want a relationship so he settled with helping her out with her fears. Then she wants a relationship but he has to keep it a secret. Then when it's found out she believes someone else. If I was his mom I would have found this girl and gave her more than a piece of my mind. Last but not least when she does figure out the truth does she go and beg for forgiveness. NO she waits for him to come to her. If I could have reach through my kindle and B slapped her I would have. Really this whole bad review boils down to one thing. I could have forgiven London for everything she did if she was the one to beg for forgiveness. If she did one thing to prove that she put Sterling and their love first it would have redeemed this whole book for me. But hay this is just my opinion.
May 20, 2022
After such a great Female lead in Persephone I'm so disappointed with London... especially with the fierce loyalty and take-no-prisoners attitude she showed in Hendrix's book...
I enjoyed this book until it came the big fight. The way she easily was swayed pissed me off. What was worse is knowing Jansen's past and his insecurities she went out of her way to deny listening to Jansen's explanations to take Max's word off get...
Also it pissed me off that yet another male lead in this series who is literally not in the wrong and has no fault is made to apologize yet again. Idk but that doesn't sit right with me.
Not saying that London had to sit there and never speak to Max again because Jansen doesn't like him but its like she went out of her way to make Jansen feel like crap.
I wasn't a fan of London at all. Jansen and Briggs side commentary carried this book for me.
I enjoyed this book until it came the big fight. The way she easily was swayed pissed me off. What was worse is knowing Jansen's past and his insecurities she went out of her way to deny listening to Jansen's explanations to take Max's word off get...
Also it pissed me off that yet another male lead in this series who is literally not in the wrong and has no fault is made to apologize yet again. Idk but that doesn't sit right with me.
Not saying that London had to sit there and never speak to Max again because Jansen doesn't like him but its like she went out of her way to make Jansen feel like crap.
I wasn't a fan of London at all. Jansen and Briggs side commentary carried this book for me.
October 2, 2022
Introducing five or six brand new characters in one book is confusing as hell. I had a really hard time tracking who was who.
Also, call them by one name and stick with it. The back and forth from calling someone by their first name then in the next chapter it’s only by their last name is confusing. I don’t want to have a spreadsheet open with names in it.
Also, call them by one name and stick with it. The back and forth from calling someone by their first name then in the next chapter it’s only by their last name is confusing. I don’t want to have a spreadsheet open with names in it.
April 15, 2022
Sterling by Samantha Whisky is a hockey sports romance that follows the story of Sterling and London. This is the sixth book in the Carolina Reapers series, which is a spin-off to the Seattle Sharks series.
Jensen Sterling has just returned to the Reapers, and his welcome home involves being trapped in an elevator with the new game day coordinator, London, who just happens to be claustrophobic.
Sterling has definitely grown up in the time he’s been away from the Reapers, and London entering his world further cements those changes.
There was a little hint about Sterling’s past with his estranged father aka one of the best NHL goalies in Cannon’s story. Unfortunately that all comes to light in this story.
There’s a lot these two need to overcome together before they get their HFN.
This story ticks the sports romance box, but adds in forced proximity and teammates sister.
Jensen Sterling has just returned to the Reapers, and his welcome home involves being trapped in an elevator with the new game day coordinator, London, who just happens to be claustrophobic.
Sterling has definitely grown up in the time he’s been away from the Reapers, and London entering his world further cements those changes.
There was a little hint about Sterling’s past with his estranged father aka one of the best NHL goalies in Cannon’s story. Unfortunately that all comes to light in this story.
There’s a lot these two need to overcome together before they get their HFN.
This story ticks the sports romance box, but adds in forced proximity and teammates sister.
February 6, 2021
Once I could get past the gorgeous cover of Sterling, Book 6 of the Carolina Reapers, by Samantha Whiskey, I was whisked away and immediately drawn in from the very first chapter. I just love this author’s writing style because it makes me feel everything as her characters have such depth and passion.
In this edition, Jansen Sterling is back in Charleston, South Carolina as he was traded back to the Carolina Reapers professional hockey team after leaving to play on a new expansion team. Unbeknownst to him, his half-brother, Maxim Zolotov, was also traded to the same team and to say there is bad blood between these two is an understatement. But trust in the process because there is always so much more than meets the eye, and his relationship with his brother and their toxic shared father has had a major impact on both men.
He meets our heroine, London Foster, who works for the team and is trying to carve her own niche out of the shadow of her famous brother, Caspian “Caz” who also plays for the team and happens to be best friends with Maxim. Sterling is immediately smitten when he and London get stuck in an elevator, and even though it appears he is the rock helping to calm her nerves, she winds up being his saving grace in more ways than one.
There is no slow burn here as the pages heat up early on from their smoking hot chemistry and sexy times, but it takes a lot of trust and working through their various issues for them to find their own HEA. That’s what I love about Samantha’s writing, love is a process and you are right there with them through all of their trepidation, heartache, joys, and triumphs. People often do what they think is right at the time and wind up hurting each other through miscommunication, and even though this happens to London and Sterling a time or do, they are the real deal and don’t give up.
I loved how vulnerable, genuine and protective Sterling is, and the creative and thoughtful dates he planned to help London overcome her claustrophobia. I love how determined London was to make it on her own professionally, and how she loved so completely and saw the best in everyone.
I especially enjoyed all the behind the scenes hockey action, both on the ice and the corporate affairs, without it overtaking the book. Even though this book is a standalone, I love catching up with the interconnected characters–the coaches, teammates and their wives or girlfriends, friends, and family members that appeared in previous books and meeting new one’s like Sterling’s new half-sister, Mila, who happens to be moving to Charleston. Is this a hint of more things to come?
This book warmed my heart and I highly recommend it. I love this series as well as Samantha’s other sports-themed series the Seattle Sharks (hockey) and the Raleigh Raptors (football).
In this edition, Jansen Sterling is back in Charleston, South Carolina as he was traded back to the Carolina Reapers professional hockey team after leaving to play on a new expansion team. Unbeknownst to him, his half-brother, Maxim Zolotov, was also traded to the same team and to say there is bad blood between these two is an understatement. But trust in the process because there is always so much more than meets the eye, and his relationship with his brother and their toxic shared father has had a major impact on both men.
He meets our heroine, London Foster, who works for the team and is trying to carve her own niche out of the shadow of her famous brother, Caspian “Caz” who also plays for the team and happens to be best friends with Maxim. Sterling is immediately smitten when he and London get stuck in an elevator, and even though it appears he is the rock helping to calm her nerves, she winds up being his saving grace in more ways than one.
There is no slow burn here as the pages heat up early on from their smoking hot chemistry and sexy times, but it takes a lot of trust and working through their various issues for them to find their own HEA. That’s what I love about Samantha’s writing, love is a process and you are right there with them through all of their trepidation, heartache, joys, and triumphs. People often do what they think is right at the time and wind up hurting each other through miscommunication, and even though this happens to London and Sterling a time or do, they are the real deal and don’t give up.
I loved how vulnerable, genuine and protective Sterling is, and the creative and thoughtful dates he planned to help London overcome her claustrophobia. I love how determined London was to make it on her own professionally, and how she loved so completely and saw the best in everyone.
I especially enjoyed all the behind the scenes hockey action, both on the ice and the corporate affairs, without it overtaking the book. Even though this book is a standalone, I love catching up with the interconnected characters–the coaches, teammates and their wives or girlfriends, friends, and family members that appeared in previous books and meeting new one’s like Sterling’s new half-sister, Mila, who happens to be moving to Charleston. Is this a hint of more things to come?
This book warmed my heart and I highly recommend it. I love this series as well as Samantha’s other sports-themed series the Seattle Sharks (hockey) and the Raleigh Raptors (football).
January 1, 2021
Everyone knows I am OBSESSED with this authors work, and she cleverly intertwined her popular hockey and football series in this book that BLEW. MY. MIND. I will agree with some of the reviewers that this is the first book of Samantha's where I feel you have to read at least Hendrix (football) and probably Cannon (hockey) before you delve into this book. That way you can truly get the background of the characters and why they are the way they are.
The first couple of chapters did throw me off a bit -- it could have just been me, bit the way it was set up confused me a great deal, until I remembered what happened towards the end of Hendrix's book and realized that London was Savannah's roommate. That being said the story really progressed quickly after that, and there is so much more drama in this book than all of this authors previous books combined! You have a love(ish) triangle, feuding half brothers, horribly verbally (and quite possibly physically) abusive 'father', brothers best friend, brothers teammate, claustrophobia (which I love how that was interwoven in the story!) And the fallout of all that. It's a lot, but i was glued to my kindle because of it!
Sterling hasn't had an easy life -- being raised by his beautiful single mom who sacrificed everything when his sperm donor chose not to step up to the plate made the man be is today. When he is in a shut - down elevator next to the woman he can't stop thinking about, he is instantly smitten.. until she falls into the arms of his half brother with whom he hates. Can Sterling, and the hockey team survive the fallout of what's about to come? Or will everyone walk away with a broken heart?
London, man, i loved her in Hendrix's book and I loved her even more here! Her claustrophobia was darn near crippling at times, but Sterling was truly her rock, and her anchor to make her realize she was truly safe. Their relationship is rocky, even though they have INTENSE as chemistry, but I loved how mature they both were. Yes, there were some miscommunications, but they always talked it through which is something you don't see a lot of in romances. My heart just broke for them both and I'm so glad they got the HEA they deserved!
As always, this magnificent woman leaves little bread crumbs for her future couplings, and I cannot WAIT for Maximus's book (Sterling's half brother) and a certain very shy best friend! I am all here for it!
So besides the confusing first few chapters, this is another solid addition to this authors amazing catalog! I can't wait to see whay she comes up with next!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
The first couple of chapters did throw me off a bit -- it could have just been me, bit the way it was set up confused me a great deal, until I remembered what happened towards the end of Hendrix's book and realized that London was Savannah's roommate. That being said the story really progressed quickly after that, and there is so much more drama in this book than all of this authors previous books combined! You have a love(ish) triangle, feuding half brothers, horribly verbally (and quite possibly physically) abusive 'father', brothers best friend, brothers teammate, claustrophobia (which I love how that was interwoven in the story!) And the fallout of all that. It's a lot, but i was glued to my kindle because of it!
Sterling hasn't had an easy life -- being raised by his beautiful single mom who sacrificed everything when his sperm donor chose not to step up to the plate made the man be is today. When he is in a shut - down elevator next to the woman he can't stop thinking about, he is instantly smitten.. until she falls into the arms of his half brother with whom he hates. Can Sterling, and the hockey team survive the fallout of what's about to come? Or will everyone walk away with a broken heart?
London, man, i loved her in Hendrix's book and I loved her even more here! Her claustrophobia was darn near crippling at times, but Sterling was truly her rock, and her anchor to make her realize she was truly safe. Their relationship is rocky, even though they have INTENSE as chemistry, but I loved how mature they both were. Yes, there were some miscommunications, but they always talked it through which is something you don't see a lot of in romances. My heart just broke for them both and I'm so glad they got the HEA they deserved!
As always, this magnificent woman leaves little bread crumbs for her future couplings, and I cannot WAIT for Maximus's book (Sterling's half brother) and a certain very shy best friend! I am all here for it!
So besides the confusing first few chapters, this is another solid addition to this authors amazing catalog! I can't wait to see whay she comes up with next!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
March 8, 2021
French & English reviews
Ohhh j'avoue, une romance sur fond de lourds secrets familiaux et de frères qui se détestent ... J'AVAIS TELLEMENT HÂTE <3
On avait eu un aperçu du passé de Sterling dans le tome avec Cannon et j'avais été très intrigué de savoir ce qui s'était passé ...
Et je n'ai pas été déçu (même s'il reste encore plein de trucs que l'on ignore !!) Là encore j'ai eu envie de giffler l'héroïne vers 70% (sérieux, comment elle a pu croire qu'il avait faire un truc comme ça !!) mais sinon, j'ai dévoré toute la romance qui m'a fait fondre mais aussi rire =D
Bref, une romance légère et sexy qui laisse entrevoir une nouvelle génération de joueurs de hockey que j'ai hâte de découvrir (Briggs et Maxim notamment) (même si ça fait bizarre de dire au revoir à l'ancienne génération qui reste mes chouchous ><)
PS : JE VEUX UN LIVRE AVEC SILAS !!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ohhh I MUST admit, a romance with the backdrop of heavy family secrets and brothers who hate each other ... I CAN NOT WAIT <3
We got a glimpse of Sterling's past in the book with Cannon and I was very intrigued to find out what had happened ...
And I was not disappointed (even if there is still plenty of stuff that we don't know !!) Again I wanted to slap the heroine at around 70% (seriously, how could she have believed that he had to do something like that !!) but otherwise, I devoured all the romance that made me melt but also laugh =D
In short, a light and sexy romance that shows us glimpses of a new generation of hockey players that I can not wait to discover (Briggs and Maxim in particular) (even if it feels weird to say goodbye to the old generation who remain my favorites ><)
PS: I WANT A BOOK WITH SILAS !!!
Ohhh j'avoue, une romance sur fond de lourds secrets familiaux et de frères qui se détestent ... J'AVAIS TELLEMENT HÂTE <3
On avait eu un aperçu du passé de Sterling dans le tome avec Cannon et j'avais été très intrigué de savoir ce qui s'était passé ...
Et je n'ai pas été déçu (même s'il reste encore plein de trucs que l'on ignore !!) Là encore j'ai eu envie de giffler l'héroïne vers 70% (sérieux, comment elle a pu croire qu'il avait faire un truc comme ça !!) mais sinon, j'ai dévoré toute la romance qui m'a fait fondre mais aussi rire =D
Bref, une romance légère et sexy qui laisse entrevoir une nouvelle génération de joueurs de hockey que j'ai hâte de découvrir (Briggs et Maxim notamment) (même si ça fait bizarre de dire au revoir à l'ancienne génération qui reste mes chouchous ><)
PS : JE VEUX UN LIVRE AVEC SILAS !!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ohhh I MUST admit, a romance with the backdrop of heavy family secrets and brothers who hate each other ... I CAN NOT WAIT <3
We got a glimpse of Sterling's past in the book with Cannon and I was very intrigued to find out what had happened ...
And I was not disappointed (even if there is still plenty of stuff that we don't know !!) Again I wanted to slap the heroine at around 70% (seriously, how could she have believed that he had to do something like that !!) but otherwise, I devoured all the romance that made me melt but also laugh =D
In short, a light and sexy romance that shows us glimpses of a new generation of hockey players that I can not wait to discover (Briggs and Maxim in particular) (even if it feels weird to say goodbye to the old generation who remain my favorites ><)
PS: I WANT A BOOK WITH SILAS !!!
December 26, 2020
Hockey romances are my jam. My absolute favorite to read because I’m a huge hockey fan. I have been a fan of Samatha Whiskey’s since reading the Seattle Sharks series last year. When she announced a new series, the Carolina Reapers, I was all over that. Everytime a book comes out, I devour it in one sitting. I can never get enough. When I was offered an ARC of her newest book, Sterling, I was so excited.
I started this book after working a 12 hour shift and finished it in one sitting. Yep, I stayed up to read the whole thing. Cannon is my favorite Reaper but Sterling made a strong attempt to be number one. He’s definitely been bumped up to number 2. ;) In this story we meet Jensen Sterling and London Foster. The two have their first run in when they get stuck in an elevator together. London is extremely claustrophobic and he helps keep her calm while together. Their attraction to each other becomes instant. The two start a friendship that develops into one hot relationship.
I loved London because she was working to become successful as the game day coordinator with the Reapers. She is the little sister of Caspian Foster and had always been in his shadow. She works hard to be her own person and I appreciate and relate to that so much. And Sterling? Whew. He’s amazing. Sweet, gorgeous, considerate and an amazing goalie. Samantha Whiskey has a way of writing delicious, swoon worthy characters; both male and female.
And the best part of her books? She always leaves hints at future books. I can’t wait for more. Caspian, Silas, and a few more have to be getting books. I hope so!
I started this book after working a 12 hour shift and finished it in one sitting. Yep, I stayed up to read the whole thing. Cannon is my favorite Reaper but Sterling made a strong attempt to be number one. He’s definitely been bumped up to number 2. ;) In this story we meet Jensen Sterling and London Foster. The two have their first run in when they get stuck in an elevator together. London is extremely claustrophobic and he helps keep her calm while together. Their attraction to each other becomes instant. The two start a friendship that develops into one hot relationship.
I loved London because she was working to become successful as the game day coordinator with the Reapers. She is the little sister of Caspian Foster and had always been in his shadow. She works hard to be her own person and I appreciate and relate to that so much. And Sterling? Whew. He’s amazing. Sweet, gorgeous, considerate and an amazing goalie. Samantha Whiskey has a way of writing delicious, swoon worthy characters; both male and female.
And the best part of her books? She always leaves hints at future books. I can’t wait for more. Caspian, Silas, and a few more have to be getting books. I hope so!
December 28, 2020
It wasn't the best one in the series.
I haven't read Hendrix's book so I was a bit confused with the timeline of his relationship with Savannah whenever they appeared.
There should have been more editing as well. At the beginning, London says it's been a month since she made a deal with Sterling, but the next chapter, Sterling says it's been a week. Also, Maxim's last name was wrong at one place. There was also a lot of sentence that were missing words.
As for the story, there was a lot a assumption and miscommunication between the 2. Once or twice is not that bad. But when it always come back to the same problem that they don't communicate about, it start to be heavy.
I'm gonna take a guest here, but the next book could be about Briggs and Bristol. If not, maybe Maxim and Evie. Maybe we'll see Mila, Sterling's sister, with a Reapers? Brogan perhaps?
I haven't read Hendrix's book so I was a bit confused with the timeline of his relationship with Savannah whenever they appeared.
There should have been more editing as well. At the beginning, London says it's been a month since she made a deal with Sterling, but the next chapter, Sterling says it's been a week. Also, Maxim's last name was wrong at one place. There was also a lot of sentence that were missing words.
As for the story, there was a lot a assumption and miscommunication between the 2. Once or twice is not that bad. But when it always come back to the same problem that they don't communicate about, it start to be heavy.
I'm gonna take a guest here, but the next book could be about Briggs and Bristol. If not, maybe Maxim and Evie. Maybe we'll see Mila, Sterling's sister, with a Reapers? Brogan perhaps?
December 31, 2020
Zero stars, Do Not Recommend
The author manages to hit every single trope as she scraped the bottom of the barrel to cobble the London-character together. The plot had some interesting ideas, but the London-character is so bad that she renders the book unreadable. When the author switched to London’s perspective, she lost the plot entirely. London is foolish to the point of being nonsensical.
The author manages to hit every single trope as she scraped the bottom of the barrel to cobble the London-character together. The plot had some interesting ideas, but the London-character is so bad that she renders the book unreadable. When the author switched to London’s perspective, she lost the plot entirely. London is foolish to the point of being nonsensical.
December 26, 2020
****I COULD NOT GET ENOUGH OF THIS BOOK, AND ITS CHARACTERS!
Well hello there, I am Ashley and I am here to announce that this author has a new fan that is going to go rabid for ALL of her work because Holy Macaroni, Sterling is EVERYTHING I want in a book and more. I am a major fan of hockey players with hearts of gold and dual POVs. I feel like this book was made for me.
The writing in Sterling is absolutely sensational. I was so wrapped up into Sterling and London's book, it was like I blinked and the whole story was over. Not because it was short, but because I became so absorbed into their story. It flowed extremely well from the great development to a depth that held life - like emotion. The dialogue and witty banter made for a great connection between the Hero and the Heroine. Both Sterling and London were such genuine characters that just liked to do kind things for others. It was like they were made for one another. Their chemistry was spell bounding. It held a certain kind of energy that literally made me giddy on the insides.
I adored these characters and everything they stand for, but there is NOTHING like a grown man knowing what he wants, I mean like truly know what he wants, and him going after it in a way that makes your heart quiver. ( In a good way.) Sterling was that. His drive and sincerity was mind-blowing. I loved London and her red soled shoes as well. Her determination was inspiring. Her heart gold. These two were perfect together, and now I can not wait to read more from this author.
* I RECOMMEND
December 26, 2020
I will start this review with the disclaimer that I received an ARC of this book a few days before release to read and provide my unbiased feedback on before the release.
I did truly enjoy the book, however, I do feel that readers that are new to Whiskey's work, should be advised that the first several chapters of "Sterling" might leave you feeling a bit lost if you have not previously read "Hendrix", the final book in the Raleigh Raptors series. This is the first time that I have read a book of Whiskey's that I felt it is truly critical to have read a previous book for you to be able to follow the storyline and understand how the characters are connected. So just do yourself a favor and make sure you are caught up in Raptors drama before starting this one.
Okay, so that is out of the way, time to talk about the good stuff. And wow is there good stuff! Whiskey has managed to play with the love triangle, secret romance, brother's best friend, feuding brothers, evil father, and secret family tropes all in a single book. Yup, the drama is jam packed in this one, all starting with the hero, Jansen, and heroine, London, getting trapped in an elevator together. So oops, I forgot love at first sight and forced proximity on my trope list. Mix in a half brother that Jansen can't stand, Maxim, but is London's brother's best friend and her friend, and well you are going to get 278 pages of fireworks on and off the ice.
4 stars for fans of the Whiskey Sports Universe!
I did truly enjoy the book, however, I do feel that readers that are new to Whiskey's work, should be advised that the first several chapters of "Sterling" might leave you feeling a bit lost if you have not previously read "Hendrix", the final book in the Raleigh Raptors series. This is the first time that I have read a book of Whiskey's that I felt it is truly critical to have read a previous book for you to be able to follow the storyline and understand how the characters are connected. So just do yourself a favor and make sure you are caught up in Raptors drama before starting this one.
Okay, so that is out of the way, time to talk about the good stuff. And wow is there good stuff! Whiskey has managed to play with the love triangle, secret romance, brother's best friend, feuding brothers, evil father, and secret family tropes all in a single book. Yup, the drama is jam packed in this one, all starting with the hero, Jansen, and heroine, London, getting trapped in an elevator together. So oops, I forgot love at first sight and forced proximity on my trope list. Mix in a half brother that Jansen can't stand, Maxim, but is London's brother's best friend and her friend, and well you are going to get 278 pages of fireworks on and off the ice.
4 stars for fans of the Whiskey Sports Universe!
December 26, 2020
Jansen Sterling - well what’s there to say about this character. Fans of the Carolina Reapers Series have been waiting to read his story when he first showed up a few books back and we got a small glimpse of his story with Max, I loved it as I knew I would.
Sterling may have been close off with certain parts of his life when it came to his father and Maxim for that matter but when it came to London he was all in as quick as that elevator stopped.
I loved reading this story even when I wanted to hurt London for not wanting to shout from the rooftops that she was with Sterling for fear of her brother or work. It took her what seemed like for ever to come to that realization that things weren’t going to blow up if she just took that step.
The secondary characters in this book where so great and I can’t wait to see what books come from Samantha next in the Carolina Reapers world. Caz or Max would for sure be on my list along with Briggs but hey that’s just me ☺️
I received this book as an ARC from the author for a serious review and I loved it.
#Sterling
#CarolinaReapers
#bookstagram
#booknerd
Follow me on Instagram
Http://www.Instagram.com/the_southern...
Sterling may have been close off with certain parts of his life when it came to his father and Maxim for that matter but when it came to London he was all in as quick as that elevator stopped.
I loved reading this story even when I wanted to hurt London for not wanting to shout from the rooftops that she was with Sterling for fear of her brother or work. It took her what seemed like for ever to come to that realization that things weren’t going to blow up if she just took that step.
The secondary characters in this book where so great and I can’t wait to see what books come from Samantha next in the Carolina Reapers world. Caz or Max would for sure be on my list along with Briggs but hey that’s just me ☺️
I received this book as an ARC from the author for a serious review and I loved it.
#Sterling
#CarolinaReapers
#bookstagram
#booknerd
Follow me on Instagram
Http://www.Instagram.com/the_southern...
December 26, 2020
After being traded from The Carolina Reapers to an expansion team Sterling is back with his beloved team The Reapers and his buddies. He is on his way to see the team owner when he gets stuck in an elevator with a claustrophobic London who is one of the game day coordinators for the team. Two of his team mates are there to help them out of the elevator, her brother Caspian and Caspian's best friend Maxim. Oh and Maxim is Sterling's half-brother who he can't stand. Maxim was just traded to the team and Sterling didn't know.
Sterling offers to help London work on her claustrophobia. They have chemistry but will it get in the way of their jobs? Oh and what about Maxim, he and London have been friends for 2 yrs but does he want to be with London too? Family drama at it's best.
So who is next? Will we see Maxim, Caspian stories? Can't wait!
I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.
5 stars
Sterling offers to help London work on her claustrophobia. They have chemistry but will it get in the way of their jobs? Oh and what about Maxim, he and London have been friends for 2 yrs but does he want to be with London too? Family drama at it's best.
So who is next? Will we see Maxim, Caspian stories? Can't wait!
I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.
5 stars
December 29, 2020
London and Jansen
Ugh I was very sad and disappointed with this one. I have loved every book in this series until now. This was still ok. It had lots of great steamy scenes and I love the side characters and hints of what is to come.
Unfortunately I am not a fan of keeping the relationship a secret and this was all London’s doing. Jansen had already suffered in his early life with his famous biological dad paying his mom off to keep him a secret, but then the woman he falls for does the same thing. She was too worried about her job and what her brother would think to consider how making him keep quiet about their relationship would affect him. Neither of these were even valid reasons as neither the team owner and her brother didn’t even care she was dating a player.
Essentially I liked our hero well enough but the heroine was rediculous. She was too self absorbed to think about anyone but herself, she was too quick to believe her brothers friend over the man she was seeing, and she didn’t grovel enough when the time came. She was at fault and still waited for him to come to her.
I was disappointed but this is still a great series and am hopeful for what’s to come.
Ugh I was very sad and disappointed with this one. I have loved every book in this series until now. This was still ok. It had lots of great steamy scenes and I love the side characters and hints of what is to come.
Unfortunately I am not a fan of keeping the relationship a secret and this was all London’s doing. Jansen had already suffered in his early life with his famous biological dad paying his mom off to keep him a secret, but then the woman he falls for does the same thing. She was too worried about her job and what her brother would think to consider how making him keep quiet about their relationship would affect him. Neither of these were even valid reasons as neither the team owner and her brother didn’t even care she was dating a player.
Essentially I liked our hero well enough but the heroine was rediculous. She was too self absorbed to think about anyone but herself, she was too quick to believe her brothers friend over the man she was seeing, and she didn’t grovel enough when the time came. She was at fault and still waited for him to come to her.
I was disappointed but this is still a great series and am hopeful for what’s to come.
December 26, 2020
Jansen and London!
Goalie Jansen Sterling met London Foster who could be the girl of his dreams in a stuck elevator, but she runs into the arms of his biological brother Maxim Zolotov when they get out. The Reapers have signed Maxim Zolotov, his half-brother from his sperm donor who is best friends with Caspian (Caz) Foster, London’s brother who is very protective of London
Jansen wants to date London without letting the team know so she can keep her job with the Reapers. It’s especially tough with Caz and Maxim trying to interfere in their relationship before deciding the boundaries of family.
I love the glimpses of the some of the new players so hopefully we will have more stories about the Reapers but sometimes we need a flow chart about the characters.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Goalie Jansen Sterling met London Foster who could be the girl of his dreams in a stuck elevator, but she runs into the arms of his biological brother Maxim Zolotov when they get out. The Reapers have signed Maxim Zolotov, his half-brother from his sperm donor who is best friends with Caspian (Caz) Foster, London’s brother who is very protective of London
Jansen wants to date London without letting the team know so she can keep her job with the Reapers. It’s especially tough with Caz and Maxim trying to interfere in their relationship before deciding the boundaries of family.
I love the glimpses of the some of the new players so hopefully we will have more stories about the Reapers but sometimes we need a flow chart about the characters.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 26, 2020
I began this book on Christmas eve and I had my nose in my kindle until I was finished. I could not put it down. I am so in love with this series. Each book is incredible and each one seems to get even better. Sterling is now my new favorite book boyfriend. London and Sterling were a perfect match and they had so much chemistry that they set the pages on fire. Sterling was hot, sexy and the sweetest guy. Even though he was all these things he only wanted to be loved for himself. London was just as sweet but she wanted people to think of her as London and not Foster's little sister. Together Sterling and London were perfect together but apart they kept doubting this. I would highly recommend this book. You honestly do not want to miss reading this one! I voluntarily reviewed this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 26, 2020
I’m really glad that I found Samantha Whiskey’s books! I like her writing style and her stories flow. Sterling’s story is no different. The chemistry between him and London was off the charts, even though London didn’t have a clue. Granted, she didn’t have a lot of experience but she didn’t have a clue between how she felt with Sterling and Maxim’s new reactions to her. The hostility between Sterling and Maxim is palpable. Too bad, that they think that the grass is greener on the other side. I liked that Sterling was so into London and was willing to do whatever it took to convince her that he was serious. Another winner from Ms Whiskey!
January 3, 2021
Sterling is another captivating story in the Carolina Reapers series. A story packed with tension, family drama, fears and insecurities. Sterling and London’s journey sparks with electric chemistry and has a fire burning hot between these two. This book will have you on the edge of your seat as you keep waiting for their worlds to fall apart. Your heart will pound and your pulse will race as these two let their uncertainties take control. A story that will grip hard and fast to your heart.
December 30, 2020
So, what can I say about this book. As with all of Samantha's books, its really got the heat between London and Stirling.
From their 1st meeting they are powerfully attracted to each other, but so many obstacles in their way.
London is trying to prove herself in a new job and Stirling is trying to find stable ground, after a huge emotional shock when rejoining his team for a new contract.
The way London's anxiety is addressed is relatable and Stirling's effort to help her is soooo swoon worthy. London is a too trusting at times, due to her lack of relationship experience.
Maxim is a brilliant villain in the story. In that, as a reader I hated him, but the development of his character changed my opinion of him several times. Now I can't wait to read his book.
Overall a brilliant hockey romance packed full of heat, angst, relatable characters and most importantly a HEA.
Looking forward to the next one!
From their 1st meeting they are powerfully attracted to each other, but so many obstacles in their way.
London is trying to prove herself in a new job and Stirling is trying to find stable ground, after a huge emotional shock when rejoining his team for a new contract.
The way London's anxiety is addressed is relatable and Stirling's effort to help her is soooo swoon worthy. London is a too trusting at times, due to her lack of relationship experience.
Maxim is a brilliant villain in the story. In that, as a reader I hated him, but the development of his character changed my opinion of him several times. Now I can't wait to read his book.
Overall a brilliant hockey romance packed full of heat, angst, relatable characters and most importantly a HEA.
Looking forward to the next one!
December 28, 2020
**ARC received for honest feedback**
I enjoyed Sterling and London's story, but it left me a tad disappointed. The first chapter captured me and I could not wait to continue. As I got further into the story, I kept feeling like a lot of detail was just being skimmed over. London's clausterphobia was barely explained, as was her relationship with her brother, Caz. I know the book would have been longer, but it would have been well worth it to explore these characters more in depth, as was done in previous books of the series. For readers who have not dived into the world of Samantha Whiskey's books and her characters, I highly encourage you to! This story and characters mentioned will make so much more sense to the reader!
I am looking forward to seeing who gets his story next, Briggs or Maxim. I am "patiently" waiting! said with no patience at all ;)
I enjoyed Sterling and London's story, but it left me a tad disappointed. The first chapter captured me and I could not wait to continue. As I got further into the story, I kept feeling like a lot of detail was just being skimmed over. London's clausterphobia was barely explained, as was her relationship with her brother, Caz. I know the book would have been longer, but it would have been well worth it to explore these characters more in depth, as was done in previous books of the series. For readers who have not dived into the world of Samantha Whiskey's books and her characters, I highly encourage you to! This story and characters mentioned will make so much more sense to the reader!
I am looking forward to seeing who gets his story next, Briggs or Maxim. I am "patiently" waiting! said with no patience at all ;)
December 26, 2020
This hockey romance is full of delicious tension between London, Janson, and his half brother, Maxim making this book an absolute page turner. You immediately identify and sympathize with Janson, his family life, his pain, his loss. The push and pull, the angst, the emotion all made this my favorite book by Samantha.
September 24, 2021
Sterling
I liked it. Maybe not my favorite of the series so far, but it was a good read. Thank goodness it didn't seem too long to read thru because I might've lost my patience for London, I know she want playing games with Jensen but she would tip toe around things and then she's taking stealing how is all about him but then she hides him and then it's giggling with Maxim.. Poor Jensen.
AND....******spoiler alert******
Why the heck didn't they end at midnight at the new years eve party, kissing??? I wanted this big countdown and then them kissing and coming out to everyone.
I liked it. Maybe not my favorite of the series so far, but it was a good read. Thank goodness it didn't seem too long to read thru because I might've lost my patience for London, I know she want playing games with Jensen but she would tip toe around things and then she's taking stealing how is all about him but then she hides him and then it's giggling with Maxim.. Poor Jensen.
AND....******spoiler alert******
Why the heck didn't they end at midnight at the new years eve party, kissing??? I wanted this big countdown and then them kissing and coming out to everyone.
December 27, 2020
4.5 Stars 🌟
It was so great to be back with the Reapers.
This story is full of scorching heat, family drama, romantic rivalry and all the stuff that Ms Whiskey does so brilliantly.
I really liked both Sterling and London.... if you need a hockey romance escape with a little bit of angst and smouldering sportsmen then the Reapers are for you!!
With the authors usual teasers around the other players..... I was certainly left wondering and intrigued as to who’s story will be next🤔
It was so great to be back with the Reapers.
This story is full of scorching heat, family drama, romantic rivalry and all the stuff that Ms Whiskey does so brilliantly.
I really liked both Sterling and London.... if you need a hockey romance escape with a little bit of angst and smouldering sportsmen then the Reapers are for you!!
With the authors usual teasers around the other players..... I was certainly left wondering and intrigued as to who’s story will be next🤔
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