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IceCats #3
Hard Hit
Kirby Litman has been abandoned by everyone in his life at one time or another since childhood. And when his cheating ex drops their baby girl in his lap and leaves the country, he vows he won’t abandon his daughter, Celeste, like he was. Between parenting, hockey, and mentoring three brand-new young players, he doesn’t have much time for himself. Though, when Jaylin Raventorn crosses his path again, he wants to stop the clock for her.
Jaylin has had her eye on Kirby from the first moment they met over a year ago, but his surprise fatherhood threw their plans into the penalty box. Now that he’s back in play—and with a cute new teammate to boot—Jaylin is as eager as Kirby to pick up where they left off.
But will the love-’em-and-leave-’em lawyer be able to let go of her fears to build a future with the man who’s always been left behind? Or will the hard hit from their pasts be too much for them to overcome?
Jaylin has had her eye on Kirby from the first moment they met over a year ago, but his surprise fatherhood threw their plans into the penalty box. Now that he’s back in play—and with a cute new teammate to boot—Jaylin is as eager as Kirby to pick up where they left off.
But will the love-’em-and-leave-’em lawyer be able to let go of her fears to build a future with the man who’s always been left behind? Or will the hard hit from their pasts be too much for them to overcome?
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 31, 2021
411 people are currently reading
681 people want to read
About the author
Toni Aleo
101 books6,719 followersWALL STREET JOURNAL, NEW YORK TIMES AND USA TODAY BEST SELLING AUTHOR TONI ALEO IS AN AUTHOR YOU CAN'T MISS!
make sure to Join my Mailing List: https://www.subscribepage.com/toniale...
My name is Toni aleo and I'm a #PredHead, #sherrio, #potterhead, and part of the #familybusiness!
I am also a wife to my amazing husband, mother of a wrestler and a gymnast, and also a fur momma to Phoebe, Gaston el Papillon & Winston.
You can usually find me hollering for the whole Nashville Predators since I'll never give my heart to one player again. When I'm not in the gym getting swole, I'm usually writing, trying to make my dreams a reality or being a taxi for my kids. I'm obsessed with Harry Potter, Supernatural, Disney and anything that sparkles! I'm pretty sure I was Belle in a past life and if I could be on any show it would be supernatural so I can hunt with Sam and Dean.
Also, could I LOVE hockey anymore?
make sure to Join my Mailing List: https://www.subscribepage.com/toniale...
My name is Toni aleo and I'm a #PredHead, #sherrio, #potterhead, and part of the #familybusiness!
I am also a wife to my amazing husband, mother of a wrestler and a gymnast, and also a fur momma to Phoebe, Gaston el Papillon & Winston.
You can usually find me hollering for the whole Nashville Predators since I'll never give my heart to one player again. When I'm not in the gym getting swole, I'm usually writing, trying to make my dreams a reality or being a taxi for my kids. I'm obsessed with Harry Potter, Supernatural, Disney and anything that sparkles! I'm pretty sure I was Belle in a past life and if I could be on any show it would be supernatural so I can hunt with Sam and Dean.
Also, could I LOVE hockey anymore?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
February 2, 2021
4.25 stars
I love Toni Aleo's sports romances so much and I was happy to get back into the world of the IceCats. Kirby and Jaylin's story was a beautiful second chance romance and of course I loved the single dad aspect.
Kirby and Jaylin never truly got the chance to try to be together, but they felt a connection. Once Kirby found out his ex-girlfriend was pregnant, he needed to focus on that and it stalled anything happing with Jaylin. Now, a year later, Kirby finds himself running into Jaylin with his daughter Celeste, who he has full time. I hoped so much that this second chance at love would work out for them.
Kirby is one of Toni's sweetest heroes. He has the biggest heart and is such an incredible father. I adored him and I especially loved seeing how he was with Celeste. Jaylin is a strong heroine who hasn't been in a serious relationship, but she's willing to try with Kirby. Though these two had some obstacles and things to work through, they were amazing together. They complimented each other so well and I loved them together.
Another fantastic thing about this book was getting to see more Nico and Aviva! Kirby is Nico's teammate and best friend, and Jaylin is Aviva's long time bestie. I highly recommend this book/series if you are a fan of sports romance. This one was sweet, swoony, and steamy!
I love Toni Aleo's sports romances so much and I was happy to get back into the world of the IceCats. Kirby and Jaylin's story was a beautiful second chance romance and of course I loved the single dad aspect.
Kirby and Jaylin never truly got the chance to try to be together, but they felt a connection. Once Kirby found out his ex-girlfriend was pregnant, he needed to focus on that and it stalled anything happing with Jaylin. Now, a year later, Kirby finds himself running into Jaylin with his daughter Celeste, who he has full time. I hoped so much that this second chance at love would work out for them.
Kirby is one of Toni's sweetest heroes. He has the biggest heart and is such an incredible father. I adored him and I especially loved seeing how he was with Celeste. Jaylin is a strong heroine who hasn't been in a serious relationship, but she's willing to try with Kirby. Though these two had some obstacles and things to work through, they were amazing together. They complimented each other so well and I loved them together.
Another fantastic thing about this book was getting to see more Nico and Aviva! Kirby is Nico's teammate and best friend, and Jaylin is Aviva's long time bestie. I highly recommend this book/series if you are a fan of sports romance. This one was sweet, swoony, and steamy!
January 28, 2021
This wasn't just a beautiful romance this was a story about a single dad fighting for custody, a couple breaking down stereotypes about interracial relationships and about overcoming fears and finding your happiness.
Toni is one of my favorites and I love the words she weaves. She makes you feel and fills your heart with giddy joy.
Kirby and Jaylin had combustible chemistry but they also had this connection. They were so good together it just warmed my heart seeing them grow as a couple. And cute little Celeste was just so adorable you couldn't not love her.
This was another great book in the series and i can't wait to see where Toni takes us next!
Toni is one of my favorites and I love the words she weaves. She makes you feel and fills your heart with giddy joy.
Kirby and Jaylin had combustible chemistry but they also had this connection. They were so good together it just warmed my heart seeing them grow as a couple. And cute little Celeste was just so adorable you couldn't not love her.
This was another great book in the series and i can't wait to see where Toni takes us next!
February 17, 2021
Hard Hit was the third book in the IceCats series by Toni Aleo.
Kirby Litman was a professional hockey player for the NHL team, the IceCats. He also just became a single father over night. He had a lot of emotional baggage from his childhood but was determined to be the best dad ever to baby Celeste.
Jaylin Raventorn was the best friend to Aviva (Wild Tendy, book two) and a successful attorney. She was currently looking for Mr Right but in a pool of Mr Wrongs. She had briefly met someone (aka Kirby) but timing was off and they didn’t get to explore things further.
We experienced Kirby and Jaylin’s introduction in Wild Tendy but circumstances kept them from seeing each other for a year until Kirby needed a family lawyer. Aleo took us through their catching back up and discovering their chemistry was still going strong. Aleo also weaved a complex plot involving a baby mama, insecurities, secret baggage, three musketeers aka rookies, and an adorable baby girl.
Overall, the plot was fun, emotional and entertaining. And true to form, Aleo hooked us in with awesome characters that will either be present in future books of this series or in the Bellevue Bullies series. I totally can’t wait to see what happens with Evan, Owen, and Dart!
Kirby Litman was a professional hockey player for the NHL team, the IceCats. He also just became a single father over night. He had a lot of emotional baggage from his childhood but was determined to be the best dad ever to baby Celeste.
Jaylin Raventorn was the best friend to Aviva (Wild Tendy, book two) and a successful attorney. She was currently looking for Mr Right but in a pool of Mr Wrongs. She had briefly met someone (aka Kirby) but timing was off and they didn’t get to explore things further.
We experienced Kirby and Jaylin’s introduction in Wild Tendy but circumstances kept them from seeing each other for a year until Kirby needed a family lawyer. Aleo took us through their catching back up and discovering their chemistry was still going strong. Aleo also weaved a complex plot involving a baby mama, insecurities, secret baggage, three musketeers aka rookies, and an adorable baby girl.
Overall, the plot was fun, emotional and entertaining. And true to form, Aleo hooked us in with awesome characters that will either be present in future books of this series or in the Bellevue Bullies series. I totally can’t wait to see what happens with Evan, Owen, and Dart!
March 5, 2021
Tone Deaf
I’m giving this book two stars because I finished it. My issues with this book was the way the author continued to remind us the Jaylin was black. The weird lunch with her boss where she went on and on about braids and natural hair and “I only let my mom touch my hair” was just so extra. The fact that her mother had no clue what hockey was ... I mean come on just because she an older black women doesn’t mean she’s never heard of hockey( insert eye roll here). Don’t even get me started on how Kirby totally used what she told him about her trauma against her. He manipulated her into staying the night with him before she was ready and that was just NOT cool. I could go on but I’ll stop with NICO! I didn’t and won’t read his story but omg that man was a jerk and her bestie was not a very good friend. Clearly Jaylins bestie told Nico a lot of things about her she had no business since he thought he knew oh so much about what type of women she is. When he said “can’t turn a *** into a housewife “ I about lost it. I didn’t find a single character likable in this story. Oh one more thing invade the author reads this one day. Please please please do not have white men in your stories make such a big deal out of the color of our skin. All that does is make it seem like they are fetishizing us not actually appreciating us because we are simply
Beautiful women they want to get to know. It’s gross and no black woman would actually think it was a compliment.
I’m giving this book two stars because I finished it. My issues with this book was the way the author continued to remind us the Jaylin was black. The weird lunch with her boss where she went on and on about braids and natural hair and “I only let my mom touch my hair” was just so extra. The fact that her mother had no clue what hockey was ... I mean come on just because she an older black women doesn’t mean she’s never heard of hockey( insert eye roll here). Don’t even get me started on how Kirby totally used what she told him about her trauma against her. He manipulated her into staying the night with him before she was ready and that was just NOT cool. I could go on but I’ll stop with NICO! I didn’t and won’t read his story but omg that man was a jerk and her bestie was not a very good friend. Clearly Jaylins bestie told Nico a lot of things about her she had no business since he thought he knew oh so much about what type of women she is. When he said “can’t turn a *** into a housewife “ I about lost it. I didn’t find a single character likable in this story. Oh one more thing invade the author reads this one day. Please please please do not have white men in your stories make such a big deal out of the color of our skin. All that does is make it seem like they are fetishizing us not actually appreciating us because we are simply
Beautiful women they want to get to know. It’s gross and no black woman would actually think it was a compliment.
December 15, 2021
My interest was not piqued. Characters left much to be desired.
January 28, 2021
5 star Review Hard Hit (IceCats #3) by Toni Aleo
As soon as this one hit my kindle I dove straight in as I was excited to read Hard Hit and simply put, I couldn’t put it down. I kept saying, just one more chapter until I found myself forced to go to sleep.
If you are expecting this to be just another hockey story with a hot player who has the world at his feet and can and does anything he wants too, then you are in for a shock. This book has heart and soul with characters that will draw you in and is an outstanding story; this is one of my favourite reads from Toni Aleo and one that I highly recommend.
Kirby Litman, where do I start? He captivated me from the very start and I fear I have yet another new book boyfriend. Jaylin Raventorn, what a strong, independent, wonderful woman she is. I loved these two characters separately and even more when they got together, they are absolutely perfect for each another.
Kirby is so swoon worthy that he just about melted my heart at times. All the characters. were well developed and easy to relate too; I loved Jaylin and the relationship she has with her best friend Aviva and Aviva’s sister Callie . I almost swooned with how Kirby was with his beautiful baby girl Celeste.
This was a breath of fresh air reading, it is a story about people who are flawed and yet through strength and determination they fight through what life has dealt them and achieve goals that many thought would never happen. If anyone deserved to fall in love and live happily ever after it is Kirby, Jaylin and Celeste.
As soon as this one hit my kindle I dove straight in as I was excited to read Hard Hit and simply put, I couldn’t put it down. I kept saying, just one more chapter until I found myself forced to go to sleep.
If you are expecting this to be just another hockey story with a hot player who has the world at his feet and can and does anything he wants too, then you are in for a shock. This book has heart and soul with characters that will draw you in and is an outstanding story; this is one of my favourite reads from Toni Aleo and one that I highly recommend.
Kirby Litman, where do I start? He captivated me from the very start and I fear I have yet another new book boyfriend. Jaylin Raventorn, what a strong, independent, wonderful woman she is. I loved these two characters separately and even more when they got together, they are absolutely perfect for each another.
Kirby is so swoon worthy that he just about melted my heart at times. All the characters. were well developed and easy to relate too; I loved Jaylin and the relationship she has with her best friend Aviva and Aviva’s sister Callie . I almost swooned with how Kirby was with his beautiful baby girl Celeste.
This was a breath of fresh air reading, it is a story about people who are flawed and yet through strength and determination they fight through what life has dealt them and achieve goals that many thought would never happen. If anyone deserved to fall in love and live happily ever after it is Kirby, Jaylin and Celeste.
April 7, 2021
A hockey player gets another chance to reconnect with the woman of his dreams. This time around he’s a package deal and he wants a second chance with the one that got away.
The getting there is not a bed of roses especially when nearly everybody in this book is quirky as hell with the exception of the hero, a nanny and a baby and this plot device didn’t work for me.
The heroine is an odd bird, with issues (and other eccentricities), with spending the night with the hero because of something that happened in her past. It’s critical information she didn’t share with her therapist; and not divulging this to her therapist proves detrimental in how she navigates her relationship with the hero. Can fate overcome the past to solidify their future?
The getting there is not a bed of roses especially when nearly everybody in this book is quirky as hell with the exception of the hero, a nanny and a baby and this plot device didn’t work for me.
The heroine is an odd bird, with issues (and other eccentricities), with spending the night with the hero because of something that happened in her past. It’s critical information she didn’t share with her therapist; and not divulging this to her therapist proves detrimental in how she navigates her relationship with the hero. Can fate overcome the past to solidify their future?
January 26, 2021
This is a beautiful story about a strong confident independent woman realizing that independence can be lonely and the right partner can lift you up and make you better and stronger, not hold you back. As a survivor of so many things Jaylin has walls upon walls around her heart. She finds herself still dreaming about the one man who makes her heart flutter. Kirby had to step away from Jaylin, she was all consuming. When his ex showed up pregnant he made the right choice to make the family he never had for his daughter. After failing to be enough to keep his ex from cheating he is left as a part time single father willing to do anything to make sure his daughter feels loved, when the part time becomes full time he has to fight to keep it that way. A chance run in with the women he can’t forget leads them back to each other. Kirby and Jaylin fall fast and fall hard but that doesn’t mean they won’t have hurdles. A custody battle with an unwilling mother and a broken court system which still think Mothers are best for the children, a past trauma coming back to throw a wrench in their forward momentum and you get this tale of love, strength and support. The relationship being built not only between Kirby and Jaylin but between Kirby and his new teammates and nanny will make you fall in love with him. He is an amazing support system to everyone around him recognizing anxiety as he has it himself. He is protective and loving to everyone even with his own insecurities and anxiousness. The ways he talks about coping and dealing with this is so awesome to see in a story like this. I love these perfectly imperfect characters so much, I am not even sure how to express the joy this book gave me in a time when I needed it.
Toni knows how to draw you into a story and this was no exception. I was drawn in from the first time I was introduced to Jaylin and Kirby in her previous book in this series. I find myself ready to read this story again and again, these characters will live in my mind and heart for as long as my mind is sound, just as all of Toni’s characters have. I know we were introduced to hopefully future heroes and heroines and I myself cannot wait to read them. In the meantime I will be starting Toni’s books from the beginning for the umpteenth time.
Toni knows how to draw you into a story and this was no exception. I was drawn in from the first time I was introduced to Jaylin and Kirby in her previous book in this series. I find myself ready to read this story again and again, these characters will live in my mind and heart for as long as my mind is sound, just as all of Toni’s characters have. I know we were introduced to hopefully future heroes and heroines and I myself cannot wait to read them. In the meantime I will be starting Toni’s books from the beginning for the umpteenth time.
January 25, 2021
I've been in a bit of a reading funk, but when Toni Aleo's new book hit my Kindle, knowing it was a hockey book made me excited to dive in and I wasn't disappointed at all! Hard Hit is the third book in the IceCats series and while I always think it helps to read them in order, this could be read as a standalone.
Kirby Litman hasn't had it easy. He's been abandoned by the most important people since early in his life and that is something he still deals with now, even as a professional hockey player. When he learned his ex was pregnant with their child, he vowed to never be an absent parent - he wasn't going to repeat history. When said ex chooses to head overseas with her new boyfriend, she leaves little Celeste with her daddy reminding Kirby of the reasons he's so strong in his convictions to be the best father he can be.
Jaylin Raventorn is a successful attorney, but she's not had the easiest time of it over the years either. She is a cancer survivor and she's not one to want to stick around in relationships given experiences in her past. However Kirby has always been the one she couldn't forget. They met around the time he found out about his daughter and he decided he had to give his ex another chance. She understood, but that didn't mean she liked it.
Now that they have been able to reconnect, will these two that so clearly care about one another be able to make something work? Given her hang-ups along with his anxiety issues, not to mention his ex, they have a lot of things to deal with in order to come out on the other side.
This story had me drawn in from the very start. I liked both Kirby and Jaylin and I could see parts of myself in Kirby. I suffer from anxiety myself and I know how debilitating it can be. I loved the aspect of the book where he mentored one of the younger players who was dealing with similar issues. It's always good to know that you're not alone. Jaylin was so independent and fierce, which I loved, but she also had that softer side, which was fantastic too. I was rooting for these two, and Celeste, the entire way through.
Do yourself a favor and pick up this great book!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
Kirby Litman hasn't had it easy. He's been abandoned by the most important people since early in his life and that is something he still deals with now, even as a professional hockey player. When he learned his ex was pregnant with their child, he vowed to never be an absent parent - he wasn't going to repeat history. When said ex chooses to head overseas with her new boyfriend, she leaves little Celeste with her daddy reminding Kirby of the reasons he's so strong in his convictions to be the best father he can be.
Jaylin Raventorn is a successful attorney, but she's not had the easiest time of it over the years either. She is a cancer survivor and she's not one to want to stick around in relationships given experiences in her past. However Kirby has always been the one she couldn't forget. They met around the time he found out about his daughter and he decided he had to give his ex another chance. She understood, but that didn't mean she liked it.
Now that they have been able to reconnect, will these two that so clearly care about one another be able to make something work? Given her hang-ups along with his anxiety issues, not to mention his ex, they have a lot of things to deal with in order to come out on the other side.
This story had me drawn in from the very start. I liked both Kirby and Jaylin and I could see parts of myself in Kirby. I suffer from anxiety myself and I know how debilitating it can be. I loved the aspect of the book where he mentored one of the younger players who was dealing with similar issues. It's always good to know that you're not alone. Jaylin was so independent and fierce, which I loved, but she also had that softer side, which was fantastic too. I was rooting for these two, and Celeste, the entire way through.
Do yourself a favor and pick up this great book!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
February 12, 2021
I really liked this one, mostly because Jaylin and Kirby were so cute together. Sure they had issues, but what was great was that they took the time to talk about it and kept talking about it til they were good. And despite still working through their issues they each had the other's back if someone talked bad about the other. With each step they took building their relationship you felt yourself cheering them on.
I especially loved when Kirby met Jaylin's parents. It could have been all kinds of awkward, instead Kirby was brutally honest with them about his life, his daughter and what his intentions towards Jaylin were, which won them over.
I really liked how by the end of the book thing were all sunshine and rainbows for this couple and their lives as a family.
I especially loved when Kirby met Jaylin's parents. It could have been all kinds of awkward, instead Kirby was brutally honest with them about his life, his daughter and what his intentions towards Jaylin were, which won them over.
I really liked how by the end of the book thing were all sunshine and rainbows for this couple and their lives as a family.
December 25, 2021
Review to come!
February 4, 2021
Honestly I don’t really have any complaints, aside from the beginning being too insta-lovey for my liking. It was mentioned that they had a connection “a year ago” but never had the chance to see it through; and now that they run into each other again it was basically an automatic relationship. I would rather have had the opportunity to see their connection build up, but nah it was kinda just thrown at me that it was already established.
Anyways, as for the 3 stars, I just didn’t care for the book. It was easy to get into and I finished it quickly, but I just wasn’t in love with either character (not that there was anything wrong with them!!! just preference). I felt more interested in the side characters like Evan and Callie (I know Callie was hardly mentioned but I’m always down for a college romance), I hope they both get their own books...or maybe they’re the couple?!??! who knows.
With that said, byeeeee for now xx
Anyways, as for the 3 stars, I just didn’t care for the book. It was easy to get into and I finished it quickly, but I just wasn’t in love with either character (not that there was anything wrong with them!!! just preference). I felt more interested in the side characters like Evan and Callie (I know Callie was hardly mentioned but I’m always down for a college romance), I hope they both get their own books...or maybe they’re the couple?!??! who knows.
With that said, byeeeee for now xx
February 3, 2021
A sweet romance that hits all the right notes. This builds on her previous stories and includes some of the characters from Wild Tendy and Juicy Rebound. While reading those books are not necessary for the enjoyment of this, I think it does enhance the experience. It's a lot of fun to see the characters grow and develop.
This time it's swoon-worthy Kirby - a hockey defenseman who is also wrapped up in his new daughter. The baby mama wanted nothing to do with either Kirby or baby Celeste and walked away from them. Kirby had a rough childhood and he wants to ensure that Celeste never feels abandoned by him. Kirby wants to make everything all legal and turns to a friend of his hockey buddy's (Nico - the focus of Wild Tendy) wife. Jaylin is a business lawyer and can't handle family law and hands off Kirby to another lawyer in the firm, but there are almost immediate sparks. Jaylin is an awesome, confident queen, but she's also got a reputation for loving and leaving. Kirby and Celeste however quickly melt her resistance and she is heading for a fall - right into Kirby's arms.
Ms. Aleo deals with some serious issues along the way - mental health, women's issues, parental rights, racism. She has a good touch with mental health issues and it's not just the gals...I won't give away more, but she is sensitive to how hard it is to deal with these kind of things, especially for guys. There are several more characters that I'm sure we'll be reading about soon (YAY!) and I'll be looking out for more in this and her other (Nashville Assassins & Assassins Next Gen) series.
This time it's swoon-worthy Kirby - a hockey defenseman who is also wrapped up in his new daughter. The baby mama wanted nothing to do with either Kirby or baby Celeste and walked away from them. Kirby had a rough childhood and he wants to ensure that Celeste never feels abandoned by him. Kirby wants to make everything all legal and turns to a friend of his hockey buddy's (Nico - the focus of Wild Tendy) wife. Jaylin is a business lawyer and can't handle family law and hands off Kirby to another lawyer in the firm, but there are almost immediate sparks. Jaylin is an awesome, confident queen, but she's also got a reputation for loving and leaving. Kirby and Celeste however quickly melt her resistance and she is heading for a fall - right into Kirby's arms.
Ms. Aleo deals with some serious issues along the way - mental health, women's issues, parental rights, racism. She has a good touch with mental health issues and it's not just the gals...I won't give away more, but she is sensitive to how hard it is to deal with these kind of things, especially for guys. There are several more characters that I'm sure we'll be reading about soon (YAY!) and I'll be looking out for more in this and her other (Nashville Assassins & Assassins Next Gen) series.
February 3, 2021
O! M! G!!!! !!!! I NEED to say this first and foremost. I NEED a Kirby in my life!!!
Back, rather, I want/need to start my review. I absolutely LOVE Toni Aleo and ALL her hockey series. When I read the blurb for this book, I could not wait for it to hit my Kindle. I could not put it down, and did an all-nighter reading it.
I have liked all the heroes and heroines in Ms. Aleo’s books. I have loved a good many of them as well. But, there are a few of them that just rip my heart and soul out of my heart (Elli and Shea, Audrey and Tate, Jude and Claire, Nico and Nico and Aviva to name a few). Then I read Hard Hit, the 3rd book in Ms. Aleo’s IceCats series, and WHAM! I have found another set of characters that just rips my heart out, Kirby and Jaylin. Some of the background that these characters went through just hit home with me, some a little to close to home. This made me love them just so, SO much more. I love that Kirby and Jaylin see the person inside each other, other than the wrappings, and the upbringing. Truthfully, this world we live in needs more of this. Throw in Celeste, and my heart exploded, right then and there. Jaylin and Kirby, BEST PARENTS EVER!!!!!
Ms. Aleo, YOU have outdone yourself. Kudos, on another spectacular book.
I was gifted with a copy of this wonderful book, for my reading enjoyment and for my opinions on this spectacular story. I loved this book so much that as soon as I hear it will be released in audio form, I WILL be buying it, so I can enjoy it over and over again.
Now, if you love reading a wonderful romantic story, what are you waiting for? Go hit that purchase button from your favorite retailer. I know you will enjoy this book as much as I have.
Back, rather, I want/need to start my review. I absolutely LOVE Toni Aleo and ALL her hockey series. When I read the blurb for this book, I could not wait for it to hit my Kindle. I could not put it down, and did an all-nighter reading it.
I have liked all the heroes and heroines in Ms. Aleo’s books. I have loved a good many of them as well. But, there are a few of them that just rip my heart and soul out of my heart (Elli and Shea, Audrey and Tate, Jude and Claire, Nico and Nico and Aviva to name a few). Then I read Hard Hit, the 3rd book in Ms. Aleo’s IceCats series, and WHAM! I have found another set of characters that just rips my heart out, Kirby and Jaylin. Some of the background that these characters went through just hit home with me, some a little to close to home. This made me love them just so, SO much more. I love that Kirby and Jaylin see the person inside each other, other than the wrappings, and the upbringing. Truthfully, this world we live in needs more of this. Throw in Celeste, and my heart exploded, right then and there. Jaylin and Kirby, BEST PARENTS EVER!!!!!
Ms. Aleo, YOU have outdone yourself. Kudos, on another spectacular book.
I was gifted with a copy of this wonderful book, for my reading enjoyment and for my opinions on this spectacular story. I loved this book so much that as soon as I hear it will be released in audio form, I WILL be buying it, so I can enjoy it over and over again.
Now, if you love reading a wonderful romantic story, what are you waiting for? Go hit that purchase button from your favorite retailer. I know you will enjoy this book as much as I have.
January 26, 2021
Toni Aleo has added an Amazing Read to the Ice Cats Series. Hard Hit has everything you want and more.
Kirby Litman is a Fantastic Player. A Fantastic Friend but what he’s best at is being an Amazing Dad To Sweet Celeste. What he never thought he could be was an Incredible Boyfriend To Jaylin, a woman who caught his attention a year ago but it took a bump in the road to find himself in her way once again.
Jaylin Raventorn is a woman who has been through a lot in her life but she also has come out on the other side as one powerful attorney and a woman who knows what she wants. Kirby Litman is someone she has wanted but when circumstances upended her chances she stepped back, but now there is a chance for them and she is jumping in fears and all.
Kirby & Jaylin are Amazing together and watching them become a Couple is so much fun to watch, and when you add baby Celeste into the mix is is Perfect. They will have some ups and downs along the way but hoping they find their HEA on the other side is something you can’t wait to see.
Kirby Litman is a Fantastic Player. A Fantastic Friend but what he’s best at is being an Amazing Dad To Sweet Celeste. What he never thought he could be was an Incredible Boyfriend To Jaylin, a woman who caught his attention a year ago but it took a bump in the road to find himself in her way once again.
Jaylin Raventorn is a woman who has been through a lot in her life but she also has come out on the other side as one powerful attorney and a woman who knows what she wants. Kirby Litman is someone she has wanted but when circumstances upended her chances she stepped back, but now there is a chance for them and she is jumping in fears and all.
Kirby & Jaylin are Amazing together and watching them become a Couple is so much fun to watch, and when you add baby Celeste into the mix is is Perfect. They will have some ups and downs along the way but hoping they find their HEA on the other side is something you can’t wait to see.
July 25, 2021
I don't like how Jaylins best friend or her husband treated her. I read the book with Aviva and Nico, so I know Nico is on the spectrum, that doesn't give him the right to speak to Jay like that and the fact that Aviva didn't defend her and believed Jay was using Kirby for his peen at first. Not to mention that Kirby never yelled at Nico for being a dick to Jay. I still felt like Jay was a side character because she sacrificed so much for others, but no one could see that
February 9, 2021
Hard Hit
Loved this story!! Specifically love that dealing with mental health issues is possible and people can function with mental health issues with therapy and/or medication. I love that this big strong hockey player admit these issues and still be HOT and sexy and totally swoon worthy. It’s a great love story and a MUST read!!!!!!
Loved this story!! Specifically love that dealing with mental health issues is possible and people can function with mental health issues with therapy and/or medication. I love that this big strong hockey player admit these issues and still be HOT and sexy and totally swoon worthy. It’s a great love story and a MUST read!!!!!!
January 28, 2021
Aleo scores a direct hit to the heart. Jaylin and Kirby pull out all the stops when it comes to temptation. From heartache to hope, Hard Hit has captivating written all over it. A bittersweet life lesson.
February 4, 2021
Toni does it again! I loved Kirby and Jaylin. Please don’t get me started on sweet Celeste!!
This book had it all. When I think I find a favorite one of her books Toni puts out another one and I’m left up in the air again!!
Never stop writing, Toni, you have a gift!
This book had it all. When I think I find a favorite one of her books Toni puts out another one and I’m left up in the air again!!
Never stop writing, Toni, you have a gift!
October 22, 2021
Lovely romance novel.
Touches on some authentic struggles and hardships.
Bit hard sometimes on the name calling and slutshaming. Thought it was outrageous when her best friend's boyfriend did that. Not cool...
Baby was cute as a button.
Touches on some authentic struggles and hardships.
Bit hard sometimes on the name calling and slutshaming. Thought it was outrageous when her best friend's boyfriend did that. Not cool...
Baby was cute as a button.
March 2, 2021
Yuck. Poorly told romance starring Kirby, a hockey player with abandonment issues, and Jaylin, a lawyer, with control issues.
January 10, 2022
This was just ok for me - read on KU
This is my least favorite full length novel by this author to date. I loved Kirby and all of the hockey players but I just didn't love Jaylin. And their relationship was just a little too sappy. I could have gotten past that if I had liked her more, though.
I have noticed Ms. Aleo tends toward heroines who have self confidence problems and that is because it is what she knows. And, honestly, most of us, probably 90% of us - men and women included - probably do. It was kind of nice to take a break from that as Amelia and Aviva were a bit annoying in their issues because they let them last too long. Jaylin, however, is both egotistical and insecure. She tells us more than once how beautiful she is without admitting it's a bit vain to think so. She's very secure in a business sense and as a friend. Her only insecurity seems to be from a fear of losing control. And it is irritating the lengths to which she takes it.
I probably set myself up to not love this book because I didn't love her in Aviva's book. I didn't expect to here, either. I also didn't really feel like we got to know her well. It seemed like only surface level stuff. We really don't know anything more about her other than she likes sex, she works a lot, she has supportive, if not pushy, parents. We don't know anything about her hobbies or what she enjoys outside of work. We don't really know Kirby that well either. I guess we do know they are both great with Celeste, his baby. And I don't like her less because she enjoys sex. I don't have that double standard.
There were also a lot of small things I had an issue with. Like Kirby has his baby watching TV. I think she is about 8 months old the first time. First, no child should be subjected to TV at an age under 1. I think the AAP recommends not under 2 or 3. And second, I don't think children can focus that far. My kids didn't have any interest until well after they were two in things we were watching nor did my son have interest in what his older sister was watching until that age. A few weeks later, she is supposedly singing along with Dora. She can only babble at this point, so I know she wasn't singing along. Ms. Aleo is a mom. She seems to know her stuff when it comes to hockey but then gets simple things about babies wrong. There were other small things I highlighted and will turn on some of those highlights on Goodreads - but none with spoilers.
One of the things that I found irritating was Nico and Chandler were clearly best friends. Had been close since college. Yes, we had to have Nico in this book but all of a sudden Nico and Kirby are besties when the 3 of them didn't even hang out in past books, other than maybe once on the road. I would have gotten it if they had. Just like Wes, Aiden, and Boon in the next gen series. I found it irritating who was besties with whom shifted that series, too, but at least the three hung out a lot. Ms. Aleo does seem to have a chain of the newest MMC standing up as the best man in weddings instead of the previous one reciprocating.
I did some skimming to get through this book. Just a few sentences at a time. Mostly in chapters where Aviva and Jaylin are talking. Even without the skimming, the book probably would have taken an hour less than average reading time Amazon provided.
I did love the time with Evan, Owen, and Dart, the newest members if the Ice Cats. I really look forward to those boys' books. I know from the description for book 4 Evan doesn't stay but I bet he eventually gets a book. I didn't understand why the Ice Cats would have broken up a team that came so close to winning the cup. Sure, they lost it two years in a row but they made it to the final round both years. It seems that would be a team you build on, not break up. I'm not arguing with whether or not that would happen in the real world, it was just something I didn't understand. Maybe the author needed it to introduce a lot of young new players and characters.
I realize I messed up reading the series out of order. I should have started with the Bullies series. I won't read the original assassins series because it isn't KU, except maybe Shea and Elli's book. So, I apologize if my references are off as I read the next generation series before this one but it is confusing and chronologically and release date wise, both, no one series is complete before the other other.
I will still read more from Ms. Also but I felt like the next gen series had more meat to them than this one. But I am really looking forward to reading Owen's book later today.
This is my least favorite full length novel by this author to date. I loved Kirby and all of the hockey players but I just didn't love Jaylin. And their relationship was just a little too sappy. I could have gotten past that if I had liked her more, though.
I have noticed Ms. Aleo tends toward heroines who have self confidence problems and that is because it is what she knows. And, honestly, most of us, probably 90% of us - men and women included - probably do. It was kind of nice to take a break from that as Amelia and Aviva were a bit annoying in their issues because they let them last too long. Jaylin, however, is both egotistical and insecure. She tells us more than once how beautiful she is without admitting it's a bit vain to think so. She's very secure in a business sense and as a friend. Her only insecurity seems to be from a fear of losing control. And it is irritating the lengths to which she takes it.
I probably set myself up to not love this book because I didn't love her in Aviva's book. I didn't expect to here, either. I also didn't really feel like we got to know her well. It seemed like only surface level stuff. We really don't know anything more about her other than she likes sex, she works a lot, she has supportive, if not pushy, parents. We don't know anything about her hobbies or what she enjoys outside of work. We don't really know Kirby that well either. I guess we do know they are both great with Celeste, his baby. And I don't like her less because she enjoys sex. I don't have that double standard.
There were also a lot of small things I had an issue with. Like Kirby has his baby watching TV. I think she is about 8 months old the first time. First, no child should be subjected to TV at an age under 1. I think the AAP recommends not under 2 or 3. And second, I don't think children can focus that far. My kids didn't have any interest until well after they were two in things we were watching nor did my son have interest in what his older sister was watching until that age. A few weeks later, she is supposedly singing along with Dora. She can only babble at this point, so I know she wasn't singing along. Ms. Aleo is a mom. She seems to know her stuff when it comes to hockey but then gets simple things about babies wrong. There were other small things I highlighted and will turn on some of those highlights on Goodreads - but none with spoilers.
One of the things that I found irritating was Nico and Chandler were clearly best friends. Had been close since college. Yes, we had to have Nico in this book but all of a sudden Nico and Kirby are besties when the 3 of them didn't even hang out in past books, other than maybe once on the road. I would have gotten it if they had. Just like Wes, Aiden, and Boon in the next gen series. I found it irritating who was besties with whom shifted that series, too, but at least the three hung out a lot. Ms. Aleo does seem to have a chain of the newest MMC standing up as the best man in weddings instead of the previous one reciprocating.
I did some skimming to get through this book. Just a few sentences at a time. Mostly in chapters where Aviva and Jaylin are talking. Even without the skimming, the book probably would have taken an hour less than average reading time Amazon provided.
I did love the time with Evan, Owen, and Dart, the newest members if the Ice Cats. I really look forward to those boys' books. I know from the description for book 4 Evan doesn't stay but I bet he eventually gets a book. I didn't understand why the Ice Cats would have broken up a team that came so close to winning the cup. Sure, they lost it two years in a row but they made it to the final round both years. It seems that would be a team you build on, not break up. I'm not arguing with whether or not that would happen in the real world, it was just something I didn't understand. Maybe the author needed it to introduce a lot of young new players and characters.
I realize I messed up reading the series out of order. I should have started with the Bullies series. I won't read the original assassins series because it isn't KU, except maybe Shea and Elli's book. So, I apologize if my references are off as I read the next generation series before this one but it is confusing and chronologically and release date wise, both, no one series is complete before the other other.
I will still read more from Ms. Also but I felt like the next gen series had more meat to them than this one. But I am really looking forward to reading Owen's book later today.
February 16, 2023
Kirby plays for, the South Carolina IceCats Hockey Team. He has been on a mission, to win, the Stanley Cup, and once again it's just out, of the team's grasp. So, the team is restructuring and will be, going through some growing pains, as if new again.
Kirby spent his whole life striving for, the Cup. He didn’t have, the best home life. A child of, divorce is a back-and-forth, between parents. Playing hockey is, the way they guilted each other, to make the other pay. When he is old enough, to work, he starts working at his home rink. Just so his fees are paid, and the fighting would stop. The majority of the time, he slept at the rink.
He didn't have time, to worry about his dumpster fire of a family. His dad died in a drunk driving accident, being an alcoholic it didn't surprise him. His mom divorced her abusive ex, and married again, starting a new family. He is forgotten quickly, and he realized, they didn't worry about him, and his dreams. Why should he worry about them? He works hard, to prove himself on the ice, and, most of all, to the school, the Michigan Wolverines. He wanted, to make his coach, and, the school proud. He had a full-time job, even with a scholarship because, he still needed, to eat and have a hotel, to stay in during the summer.
He was in the first round, the ninth pick for, the IceCats. So proud, is how he felt. He is, so proud. Lilly Paige his now ex is beside him. He thought he had it all, the American dream. Instead, she is a nightmare. He wants something so desperately, that he had never gotten, not even as a child. LOVE. She loved, to spend his money, and herself, yet, she couldn't handle the team travel, and being alone. Leading, to her sleeping with the cable guy, or pool guy. Yet, meeting, Lilly gave him his gorgeous daughter, Celeste. For her, he can never regret their time together. He may want the Cup, it sucks not, to have it, but at the end of the day, he gets, to be, Celeste’s daddy, nothing is better.
Jaylin, she’s powerful. Stunning. And, too smart for her own good. Not locking her down, is his biggest regret in life. Her level of beauty isn’t, even describable. A year ago, they started something, until his ex came up pregnant after, the breakup. He didn’t get, to hold her. He didn’t get, to wake up beside her. They kept it friendly, mainly because he is, still dealing with shit with, Lilly. The ex wasn’t completely out of his life, and, Jaylin isn’t, a side dish. She’s the whole f-ing meal. She understood when he said, he had, to try with his ex, for the baby coming. That was, a year ago, but, now he’s in her office with, his daughter...
See if these two can take their ‘past almost’ relationship, into an ‘oh yes’ relationship. The two of them, are single. But, both have baggage, that can weigh them down. Not, to mention demanding careers, and friends that are vocal. There is fear of the unknown, anxieties, to overcome, past traumas, to work through, and an ex, to deal with. A very good story. Nico and Aviva were harsh with Jaylin when she starts dating Kirby. Especially, Nico. She is the female, Nico so has he looked in the mirror?
Kirby spent his whole life striving for, the Cup. He didn’t have, the best home life. A child of, divorce is a back-and-forth, between parents. Playing hockey is, the way they guilted each other, to make the other pay. When he is old enough, to work, he starts working at his home rink. Just so his fees are paid, and the fighting would stop. The majority of the time, he slept at the rink.
He didn't have time, to worry about his dumpster fire of a family. His dad died in a drunk driving accident, being an alcoholic it didn't surprise him. His mom divorced her abusive ex, and married again, starting a new family. He is forgotten quickly, and he realized, they didn't worry about him, and his dreams. Why should he worry about them? He works hard, to prove himself on the ice, and, most of all, to the school, the Michigan Wolverines. He wanted, to make his coach, and, the school proud. He had a full-time job, even with a scholarship because, he still needed, to eat and have a hotel, to stay in during the summer.
He was in the first round, the ninth pick for, the IceCats. So proud, is how he felt. He is, so proud. Lilly Paige his now ex is beside him. He thought he had it all, the American dream. Instead, she is a nightmare. He wants something so desperately, that he had never gotten, not even as a child. LOVE. She loved, to spend his money, and herself, yet, she couldn't handle the team travel, and being alone. Leading, to her sleeping with the cable guy, or pool guy. Yet, meeting, Lilly gave him his gorgeous daughter, Celeste. For her, he can never regret their time together. He may want the Cup, it sucks not, to have it, but at the end of the day, he gets, to be, Celeste’s daddy, nothing is better.
Jaylin, she’s powerful. Stunning. And, too smart for her own good. Not locking her down, is his biggest regret in life. Her level of beauty isn’t, even describable. A year ago, they started something, until his ex came up pregnant after, the breakup. He didn’t get, to hold her. He didn’t get, to wake up beside her. They kept it friendly, mainly because he is, still dealing with shit with, Lilly. The ex wasn’t completely out of his life, and, Jaylin isn’t, a side dish. She’s the whole f-ing meal. She understood when he said, he had, to try with his ex, for the baby coming. That was, a year ago, but, now he’s in her office with, his daughter...
See if these two can take their ‘past almost’ relationship, into an ‘oh yes’ relationship. The two of them, are single. But, both have baggage, that can weigh them down. Not, to mention demanding careers, and friends that are vocal. There is fear of the unknown, anxieties, to overcome, past traumas, to work through, and an ex, to deal with. A very good story. Nico and Aviva were harsh with Jaylin when she starts dating Kirby. Especially, Nico. She is the female, Nico so has he looked in the mirror?
January 29, 2021
Just when I think Toni Aleo couldn’t possibly blow me away anymore, she does it again! I’ll admit that second chance/single dad romances aren’t my go-to when I’m choosing a book, but because I read all of her books regardless I gave it a chance and I was not disappointed. I use second chance lightly as they definitely weren’t in a relationship for the “first chance,” and the single dad part just made me love Kirby even more.
As with most of Toni’s books, her characters deal with real live problems that sometimes go unaddressed in other books. As someone who struggles with anxiety myself, I can appreciate seeing it portrayed by two strong male characters, including Kirby. Seeing him not just struggle sometimes but also grow from it really made him relatable. Jaylin also had some physical and mental issues to overcome, bust she is so fiercely strong, independent, and confident. It goes to show that even strong people have some things going on that others may not even know about.
These two were so perfect for each other and I love how Kirby was all in from the beginning. It’s not often the hero is the one who is sure of the relationship and I loved that about him. Jaylin felt like Kirby was the one who got away so she was also excited to get another chance and loved Kirby’s baby daughter instantly.
I cried some tears, especially at one part I didn’t see coming about a sensitive topic. I was also so mad and disgusted at Kirby’s baby mama who does not deserved to be named here, but I love that the drama between Kirby and Jaylin’s relationship in itself was low. There was no drawn out fighting or anything like that and there is also no shortage of very steamy parts.
Since this is an Ice Cats book, of course there is hockey and we get a peek on what is going on with some of the other characters we love and know from the previous books, so it’s definitely an added bonus if you’ve read the other two but it’s not required.
I finished this book with a smile on my face and although there were a lot of very quotable sweet moments, I’ll leave you with the one that stuck with me the most and made me laugh- “And yes, I can’t keep my eyes off Kirby. It’s as if he is a pair of Jimmy Choos and I just got paid.” - Jaylen Raventorn
As with most of Toni’s books, her characters deal with real live problems that sometimes go unaddressed in other books. As someone who struggles with anxiety myself, I can appreciate seeing it portrayed by two strong male characters, including Kirby. Seeing him not just struggle sometimes but also grow from it really made him relatable. Jaylin also had some physical and mental issues to overcome, bust she is so fiercely strong, independent, and confident. It goes to show that even strong people have some things going on that others may not even know about.
These two were so perfect for each other and I love how Kirby was all in from the beginning. It’s not often the hero is the one who is sure of the relationship and I loved that about him. Jaylin felt like Kirby was the one who got away so she was also excited to get another chance and loved Kirby’s baby daughter instantly.
I cried some tears, especially at one part I didn’t see coming about a sensitive topic. I was also so mad and disgusted at Kirby’s baby mama who does not deserved to be named here, but I love that the drama between Kirby and Jaylin’s relationship in itself was low. There was no drawn out fighting or anything like that and there is also no shortage of very steamy parts.
Since this is an Ice Cats book, of course there is hockey and we get a peek on what is going on with some of the other characters we love and know from the previous books, so it’s definitely an added bonus if you’ve read the other two but it’s not required.
I finished this book with a smile on my face and although there were a lot of very quotable sweet moments, I’ll leave you with the one that stuck with me the most and made me laugh- “And yes, I can’t keep my eyes off Kirby. It’s as if he is a pair of Jimmy Choos and I just got paid.” - Jaylen Raventorn
February 4, 2021
If you are following my reviews, you already know that I am a die-hard Toni Aleo fan. I don’t think there is a book written by her that I didn’t read at least twice. So, when Hard Hit hit my kindle, I was hooked until my sleep-deprived body gave up on me :) Thanks to my one more chapter behavior my kindle ends up getting lost between sheets since I passed out. Hard Hit is the third book of the IceCats series. It has been a while since she published a book in the series, the second book of the series Wild Tendy was published in August 2019 and was an amazing book. As always new addition to the series did not disappoint.
Kirby Litman plays hockey for IceCats. Thanks to his teammate and best friend Nico’s girlfriend Aviva, he met with Jaylin. From the moment they met, they had an instant connection. Unfortunately, when Kirby finds out his ex is pregnant, Jaylin and Kirby never get the chance to explore the connection they have. Kirby is sweet, thoughtful, protective, and also an amazing dad. When his heartless baby mama skips town, he is left all alone with her baby girl Celeste. After not seeing Jaylin for a year, he runs into her when he is trying to find a way to get full custody of his daughter. Jaylin Renee Raverton is a strong, smart, and independent woman who is also a cancer survivor and a successful lawyer. Her being shocked by seeing the guy, who still occupies her thoughts even after a year, in her office with a baby should be an understatement. After their first run-in, everything starts happening fast, they fall for each other hard and fast but unfortunately, it is not all sunshine and rainbows. They both have their demons to overcome and some other obstacles on the way to their happily-ever-after. Kirby and Jaylin were made for each other and adding Celeste into the mix, they all fit each other.
Other than Kirby and Jaylin being amazing together, there are so many more things I adored in this book. Kirby being a mentor, aka mother hen, to three rookies and takes them under his wings. The infamous Three Musketeers: D’Artagnan Miklas, Owen, and Evan Adler. OMG! They cracked me up, they are amazing. Also, I fell move in awe of Kirby after seeing how he was trying to help Evan. Oh, my lovely Evan. I am dying to read his story. It was also a delight to see more of Nico, Aviva, and sweet Callie. Now that Callie got a scholarship from Bellevue and starting college there, there are too many options regarding which series we will be seeing her. So yeah, thanks to Ms. Aleo, I am left with too many unknowns that are waiting to be unrevealed. All in all, Hard Hit was an addictive, sexy, swoony, and completely heartfelt second chance romance.
Would I recommend this book: Yes
Would I re-read this book: For sure :)
Would I read future books by this author: Yes
Kirby Litman plays hockey for IceCats. Thanks to his teammate and best friend Nico’s girlfriend Aviva, he met with Jaylin. From the moment they met, they had an instant connection. Unfortunately, when Kirby finds out his ex is pregnant, Jaylin and Kirby never get the chance to explore the connection they have. Kirby is sweet, thoughtful, protective, and also an amazing dad. When his heartless baby mama skips town, he is left all alone with her baby girl Celeste. After not seeing Jaylin for a year, he runs into her when he is trying to find a way to get full custody of his daughter. Jaylin Renee Raverton is a strong, smart, and independent woman who is also a cancer survivor and a successful lawyer. Her being shocked by seeing the guy, who still occupies her thoughts even after a year, in her office with a baby should be an understatement. After their first run-in, everything starts happening fast, they fall for each other hard and fast but unfortunately, it is not all sunshine and rainbows. They both have their demons to overcome and some other obstacles on the way to their happily-ever-after. Kirby and Jaylin were made for each other and adding Celeste into the mix, they all fit each other.
Other than Kirby and Jaylin being amazing together, there are so many more things I adored in this book. Kirby being a mentor, aka mother hen, to three rookies and takes them under his wings. The infamous Three Musketeers: D’Artagnan Miklas, Owen, and Evan Adler. OMG! They cracked me up, they are amazing. Also, I fell move in awe of Kirby after seeing how he was trying to help Evan. Oh, my lovely Evan. I am dying to read his story. It was also a delight to see more of Nico, Aviva, and sweet Callie. Now that Callie got a scholarship from Bellevue and starting college there, there are too many options regarding which series we will be seeing her. So yeah, thanks to Ms. Aleo, I am left with too many unknowns that are waiting to be unrevealed. All in all, Hard Hit was an addictive, sexy, swoony, and completely heartfelt second chance romance.
Would I recommend this book: Yes
Would I re-read this book: For sure :)
Would I read future books by this author: Yes
January 26, 2021
“I should have called my boy Chandler. He would have lied to me and told me I was pretty.” – Kirby.
This line right here is why Kirby is one of my favorite Toni Aleo hero’s. He’s this hunky hockey player that has the world at his feet, and he’s funny and so darn loveable, but he also has this vulnerability about him that makes him even swoonier. Throw in the fact that he is an AMAZING father and this man is the epitome of perfection. He may have been thrust into the role of single father, but he handles it with grace and Celeste is better for it!
As for Miss Jaylin. I absolutely loved her in ‘Wild Tendy’. She’s independent, and knows what she wants and when she loves she loves fiercely! She’s been content playing the field, but there’s always been something about Kirby that she was drawn too. I love that we learned more about Jaydin and why she is the way that she is. To see her show a softer side and to finally have her open up added a layer that I didn’t know I needed for their story, but appreciated greatly!
I can’t believe I’m writing this, but I think ‘Hard Hit’ is my favorite of the IceCats series. I didn’t think anybody could top Chandler and Amelia but Kirby and Jaylin did just that. Toni Aleo created two characters that on the outside seem to have it all, and are kicking butt, but they have their own struggles that many people aren’t aware of. To see them working through those together was perfection. Also can I just say how much I love the three musketeers!! They add a layer of humor that just had me laughing out loud at times! Toni Aleo is starting her 2021 off in the best way possible!
*Disclaimer – for those of you that haven’t read Nico’s story, ‘Wild Tendy’ he can come across as a bit abrupt and cold in this book, but I promise he’s the sweetest guy, and you need to read his story to fully understand!
This line right here is why Kirby is one of my favorite Toni Aleo hero’s. He’s this hunky hockey player that has the world at his feet, and he’s funny and so darn loveable, but he also has this vulnerability about him that makes him even swoonier. Throw in the fact that he is an AMAZING father and this man is the epitome of perfection. He may have been thrust into the role of single father, but he handles it with grace and Celeste is better for it!
As for Miss Jaylin. I absolutely loved her in ‘Wild Tendy’. She’s independent, and knows what she wants and when she loves she loves fiercely! She’s been content playing the field, but there’s always been something about Kirby that she was drawn too. I love that we learned more about Jaydin and why she is the way that she is. To see her show a softer side and to finally have her open up added a layer that I didn’t know I needed for their story, but appreciated greatly!
I can’t believe I’m writing this, but I think ‘Hard Hit’ is my favorite of the IceCats series. I didn’t think anybody could top Chandler and Amelia but Kirby and Jaylin did just that. Toni Aleo created two characters that on the outside seem to have it all, and are kicking butt, but they have their own struggles that many people aren’t aware of. To see them working through those together was perfection. Also can I just say how much I love the three musketeers!! They add a layer of humor that just had me laughing out loud at times! Toni Aleo is starting her 2021 off in the best way possible!
*Disclaimer – for those of you that haven’t read Nico’s story, ‘Wild Tendy’ he can come across as a bit abrupt and cold in this book, but I promise he’s the sweetest guy, and you need to read his story to fully understand!
January 28, 2021
Toni Aleo does it once again. You would think after 30 plus books in hockey romance, you’d get the same thing over and over again. Not with Toni, she makes every story unique and unforgettable. And just when you think you have a favorite book boyfriend, she makes the deke on you. For the record, Benji will always be number one but Kirby is a close second.
We previously met Jaylin in Wild Tendy, she’s Aviva’s best friend. We also met Kirby, who’s Nico’s teammate and friend. The two had an instant connection but it got put on the back burner when his ex shows up pregnant. Fast forward to a year later and Kirby is a single father to his daughter, Celeste, when her mother leaves her to go be with another man in Italy. Even after a year, the spark is still there. Both are cautious at first because of their pasts and Celeste, but they ultimately give it a go. They can’t deny what they have.
I LOVED Jaylin. She’s a beautiful, smart, and independent Black woman. I love seeing more diversity brought into mainstream books. And especially in romance books. Toni did a wonderful job writing her. Kirby is also amazing. He’s smart, passionate and caring. I love reading about the Adler Twins, Owen and Evan. They are carbon copies of their parents, Shea and Elli.
What I love about Toni’s writing, she doesn’t shy away from any issues. This includes mental health issue. Toni is very open about her struggles on her social media platforms. She brought awareness into the story with it being open and respectful.
I already can’t wait for the next book. When I’m in a mood, I know I can pick up any of her books and my mood will instantly change after reading a couple chapters.
We previously met Jaylin in Wild Tendy, she’s Aviva’s best friend. We also met Kirby, who’s Nico’s teammate and friend. The two had an instant connection but it got put on the back burner when his ex shows up pregnant. Fast forward to a year later and Kirby is a single father to his daughter, Celeste, when her mother leaves her to go be with another man in Italy. Even after a year, the spark is still there. Both are cautious at first because of their pasts and Celeste, but they ultimately give it a go. They can’t deny what they have.
I LOVED Jaylin. She’s a beautiful, smart, and independent Black woman. I love seeing more diversity brought into mainstream books. And especially in romance books. Toni did a wonderful job writing her. Kirby is also amazing. He’s smart, passionate and caring. I love reading about the Adler Twins, Owen and Evan. They are carbon copies of their parents, Shea and Elli.
What I love about Toni’s writing, she doesn’t shy away from any issues. This includes mental health issue. Toni is very open about her struggles on her social media platforms. She brought awareness into the story with it being open and respectful.
I already can’t wait for the next book. When I’m in a mood, I know I can pick up any of her books and my mood will instantly change after reading a couple chapters.
March 13, 2021
Frustrating
To see how much Kirby was putting himself out there despite his anxiety and issues, while Jaylin was dragging her feet. She got upset when Nico asked her not to hurt Kirby and if she wasn’t sure to walk away, but he was right. She wasn’t ready. She kept flip flopping until the end using all kinds of excuses. After the showdown with Willa, and her boss asking her to lu ch, she should have been honest and forthcoming. If only to make sure that the nonsense Willa was sprouting really had no bearing on his case and maybe ask for help to ensure he won. Instead, she buried her head in the sand, thinking only about her career. The worse for me was really her meltdown towards the end because of Lilly. Basically after everything Lilly put Kirby through, she had the audacity to suggest that he tried again? The last time didn’t go so well for him. She loves him so much but she doesn’t really want his baby mama drama nor does she want to loose who she is. Pure selfishness knowing how much Kelby suffers from abandonment issues. I feel for her ordeal in college, however refusing to sleep at his house made no sense, but worse her refusal to seek therapy was frustrating. As Aviva mentioned where did she see their relationship going ? Her constant reference of wanting something like Aviva and Nico rubbed me the wrong way as I kept wondering if she wanted the fairytale more that the reality and was stringing Kirby along to a certain extent.
To see how much Kirby was putting himself out there despite his anxiety and issues, while Jaylin was dragging her feet. She got upset when Nico asked her not to hurt Kirby and if she wasn’t sure to walk away, but he was right. She wasn’t ready. She kept flip flopping until the end using all kinds of excuses. After the showdown with Willa, and her boss asking her to lu ch, she should have been honest and forthcoming. If only to make sure that the nonsense Willa was sprouting really had no bearing on his case and maybe ask for help to ensure he won. Instead, she buried her head in the sand, thinking only about her career. The worse for me was really her meltdown towards the end because of Lilly. Basically after everything Lilly put Kirby through, she had the audacity to suggest that he tried again? The last time didn’t go so well for him. She loves him so much but she doesn’t really want his baby mama drama nor does she want to loose who she is. Pure selfishness knowing how much Kelby suffers from abandonment issues. I feel for her ordeal in college, however refusing to sleep at his house made no sense, but worse her refusal to seek therapy was frustrating. As Aviva mentioned where did she see their relationship going ? Her constant reference of wanting something like Aviva and Nico rubbed me the wrong way as I kept wondering if she wanted the fairytale more that the reality and was stringing Kirby along to a certain extent.
February 2, 2021
Hard Hit is the third book in the Ice Cats Series (connected to Aleo's Assassins series). This story follows a strong, independent woman and a lovable, kind single father who are both finally ready to give each other a chance.
Kirby Litman is a professional hockey player on the Ice Cats. He is a great player and has a heart of gold. He has an adorable young daughter and is currently raising her on his own. He has been attracted to Jaylin for some time and wants to move forward with a life with her.
Jaylin Raverntorn is a survivor and amazingly powerful attorney. She has never had a longterm partner and has not slept with a man in years. However, she knows that she could have something special with Kirby, if she is able to break down her own walls and follow her heart.
Kirby and Jaylin know that they have chemistry; however, do they have the strength to battle their demons to move forward with each other? This book has its fair share of comedy with the further introduction of many future characters. I think there were some aspects of the book that were glossed over that could have been written about with more detail, but overall this was another enjoyable read by Toni Aleo.
While this could be read as a standalone, I believe it is better enjoyed after reading at least the other Ice Cats novels. 4/5 stars
Kirby Litman is a professional hockey player on the Ice Cats. He is a great player and has a heart of gold. He has an adorable young daughter and is currently raising her on his own. He has been attracted to Jaylin for some time and wants to move forward with a life with her.
Jaylin Raverntorn is a survivor and amazingly powerful attorney. She has never had a longterm partner and has not slept with a man in years. However, she knows that she could have something special with Kirby, if she is able to break down her own walls and follow her heart.
Kirby and Jaylin know that they have chemistry; however, do they have the strength to battle their demons to move forward with each other? This book has its fair share of comedy with the further introduction of many future characters. I think there were some aspects of the book that were glossed over that could have been written about with more detail, but overall this was another enjoyable read by Toni Aleo.
While this could be read as a standalone, I believe it is better enjoyed after reading at least the other Ice Cats novels. 4/5 stars
Read
February 2, 2021I have a soft spot for single dads, being raised by one. Kirby is kind, smart and successful but the one thing he craves is a family to love and to love him back, with an ex wife who is deceitful and untrustworthy and always cutting him down, he needs a women who can love him and his sweet baby Celeste.
Jaylin Raventorn, is an amazing women, she's accomplished so many things in her life but the one thing she's questioning is her choice of going it alone. After watching Nico's love for Aviva and Cassie grow, she realized just how much she wants that! I love how she knows what she wants and goes after it, and now that one sexy hockey player and his beautiful baby girl are no long attached to the viper ex -wife/mother, he's free to be hers, but her struggles are real and even though Kirby is kind and gentle his anxiety about being loved are also real.
Kirby is being strung along by an Ex, who won't let go of his daughter but won't be the mother he wishes could be to their daughter. He's finally found the women he's meant to love forever but life has a funny way of getting in the middle of his happiness and just when he thinks Jaylin and he will finally move past all their struggle they get hit again with another blow...
This story is so heartwarming, Kirby's ability to be love is beautiful , this book is so fulfilling.
Jaylin Raventorn, is an amazing women, she's accomplished so many things in her life but the one thing she's questioning is her choice of going it alone. After watching Nico's love for Aviva and Cassie grow, she realized just how much she wants that! I love how she knows what she wants and goes after it, and now that one sexy hockey player and his beautiful baby girl are no long attached to the viper ex -wife/mother, he's free to be hers, but her struggles are real and even though Kirby is kind and gentle his anxiety about being loved are also real.
Kirby is being strung along by an Ex, who won't let go of his daughter but won't be the mother he wishes could be to their daughter. He's finally found the women he's meant to love forever but life has a funny way of getting in the middle of his happiness and just when he thinks Jaylin and he will finally move past all their struggle they get hit again with another blow...
This story is so heartwarming, Kirby's ability to be love is beautiful , this book is so fulfilling.
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