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Tampa Suns Hockey #1
Healthy Scratch
He wants out of the friend zone…she doesn’t believe in happily ever after.
Relationships are not in Lauren Gentry’s playbook. The only kind she’s willing to consider are friends-with-benefits and even a red-hot and sexy hockey player like Dave Martin isn’t going to change that. Right?
When those chocolate brown eyes threaten to melt her defenses she has to remind herself that demons from her past could rise up at any moment. Which is going to be pretty hard to do, since she loses herself every time they touch.
Dave used to love the benefits that came easily to professional athletes; especially when they were in the form of puck bunnies who only wanted one night. But when he meets the pint-sized girl with bewitching green eyes and sun-streaked auburn hair his outlook suddenly changes.
He wants forever with Lauren. Now he just has to convince her.
Can Lauren risk everything for the man she’s secretly been falling for? Or will her past stop her from taking a chance on love?
Healthy Scratch—book #1 of the Tampa Suns Hockey Series—is a standalone romance whose main characters’ lives are intertwined with those introduced in The Clearing the Ice Trilogy. You don’t need to read the trilogy to enjoy Healthy Scratch. The book stands on its own, promises HEA, and no cliffhangers! To heighten your enjoyment of the Tampa Suns Hockey Series, you may wish to read The Clearing the Ice Trilogy.
Relationships are not in Lauren Gentry’s playbook. The only kind she’s willing to consider are friends-with-benefits and even a red-hot and sexy hockey player like Dave Martin isn’t going to change that. Right?
When those chocolate brown eyes threaten to melt her defenses she has to remind herself that demons from her past could rise up at any moment. Which is going to be pretty hard to do, since she loses herself every time they touch.
Dave used to love the benefits that came easily to professional athletes; especially when they were in the form of puck bunnies who only wanted one night. But when he meets the pint-sized girl with bewitching green eyes and sun-streaked auburn hair his outlook suddenly changes.
He wants forever with Lauren. Now he just has to convince her.
Can Lauren risk everything for the man she’s secretly been falling for? Or will her past stop her from taking a chance on love?
Healthy Scratch—book #1 of the Tampa Suns Hockey Series—is a standalone romance whose main characters’ lives are intertwined with those introduced in The Clearing the Ice Trilogy. You don’t need to read the trilogy to enjoy Healthy Scratch. The book stands on its own, promises HEA, and no cliffhangers! To heighten your enjoyment of the Tampa Suns Hockey Series, you may wish to read The Clearing the Ice Trilogy.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2021
215 people are currently reading
407 people want to read
About the author
Robyn M. Ryan
10 books170 followersRobyn M. Ryan writes sweet and sensual sports romances, including the Clearing the Ice hockey trilogy and its spin-off Tampa Suns Hockey series.
Chicago born, honorary Atlanta native, Parisienne at heart, Robin is a proud 60’s Flower Child and a “fearless” barrier-breaker for female sports journalists and minor league “batpersons.” While in college, Robyn scored a PR internship with an NHL team during its first season. As a freelance writer, Robyn interviewed future MLB and NHL Hall of Fame members, published in a variety of print media. Wife, mom, PR professional, and finally, many years later, published author. Two Westie grand-dogs now run the household.
Chicago born, honorary Atlanta native, Parisienne at heart, Robin is a proud 60’s Flower Child and a “fearless” barrier-breaker for female sports journalists and minor league “batpersons.” While in college, Robyn scored a PR internship with an NHL team during its first season. As a freelance writer, Robyn interviewed future MLB and NHL Hall of Fame members, published in a variety of print media. Wife, mom, PR professional, and finally, many years later, published author. Two Westie grand-dogs now run the household.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
March 12, 2019
Healthy Scratch is one of my most anticipated reads for 2019. This is the Tampa Suns Hockey book 1 wherein we delve in the life of Lauren Gentry, BFF and business partner to Caryn Chadwick, the central character in books 1-3 of the Clearing the Ice series. Robyn Ryan has been teasing us about Lauren's relationship with Pro Player Dave Martin, and when Dave gets traded to the Suns, and Lauren's work life changes her "living" situation, their stars finally align. But it's only the possibility of something more as they face not only what the once shared but also open questions about future opportunities and personal demons.
Lauren in not an easy girl to pin down. She's very private and she's lived very independently, with Caryn being one of her only confidants. When we catch up with her she is at a bit of a crossroads with a new professional opportunity that would change her entire life. This decision weighs heavy and she's facing pressure from her family. Her sisters opinion is motivated by her own insecurities and bitterness. The thing is Lauren has such a good heart and tat is something that Mr Martin recognizes and wants very much hold onto a part of it, to provide a safe haven for this woman that he "could" fall in love with.
The growth of their relationship is hindered by Laurens deeply rooted fears of abandonment. Her childhood was pretty terrible and her teen years treacherous as she is the endures bullying. This is very much at odds with the woman she's become and how she is seen by others. When the past comes roaring back to haunt her old insecurities tear at her and threaten to destroy the new foundation she's built.
I loved this story and I think Robyn Ryan did a great job addressing the implications and impact of bullying/cyber-bullying. Dave and Lauren together are magical; they have amazing chemistry and in each other find an endearing and inspiring support system. 5 Stars and recommendation for this book and the Clearing the Ice series!
Lauren in not an easy girl to pin down. She's very private and she's lived very independently, with Caryn being one of her only confidants. When we catch up with her she is at a bit of a crossroads with a new professional opportunity that would change her entire life. This decision weighs heavy and she's facing pressure from her family. Her sisters opinion is motivated by her own insecurities and bitterness. The thing is Lauren has such a good heart and tat is something that Mr Martin recognizes and wants very much hold onto a part of it, to provide a safe haven for this woman that he "could" fall in love with.
The growth of their relationship is hindered by Laurens deeply rooted fears of abandonment. Her childhood was pretty terrible and her teen years treacherous as she is the endures bullying. This is very much at odds with the woman she's become and how she is seen by others. When the past comes roaring back to haunt her old insecurities tear at her and threaten to destroy the new foundation she's built.
I loved this story and I think Robyn Ryan did a great job addressing the implications and impact of bullying/cyber-bullying. Dave and Lauren together are magical; they have amazing chemistry and in each other find an endearing and inspiring support system. 5 Stars and recommendation for this book and the Clearing the Ice series!
March 12, 2019
What the blurb doesn't mention when it should have, is that this is a second chance romance. Dave and Lauren had a thing a few years ago and when Dave asked for more, she said that she only does the friends with benefits gig and after four months or so after that both of them started dating other people. I wasn't in a mood for a second chance romance and I certainly wasn't in a mood for a book where the heroine's self-esteem is lower than hell. I couldn't take it after a while because I pitied her and later on it became frustrating. The book was lacking something and I wasn't able to always pay attention to it. I found my mind wandering when I was reading it. I accidentally skipped a part of it and I was completely ok with that. Lauren had the same mindset and I didn't get the feeling that something had changed in her. I don't know if it's me, the story or the writing, so I will give another book from the author a try and see how that will go.
March 8, 2019
Healthy Scratch (Tampa Suns Hockey #1) by Robyn M. Ryan
Forget romance. Healthy Scratch pulls back the blinders and exposes the mystery that is love. Ryan spotlights the tough moments, inspiring details and everything in between. What begins as a solid friendship becomes an expose' on the emotional whirlwind known as love. Dave and Lauren pierce through the heart in stages, but leave their mark on the soul. Healthy Scratch is a WOW moment for the soul.
Forget romance. Healthy Scratch pulls back the blinders and exposes the mystery that is love. Ryan spotlights the tough moments, inspiring details and everything in between. What begins as a solid friendship becomes an expose' on the emotional whirlwind known as love. Dave and Lauren pierce through the heart in stages, but leave their mark on the soul. Healthy Scratch is a WOW moment for the soul.
February 3, 2020
Oh my, I never knew there were “puck bunnies” 😀. A very enjoyable of two people working through the ins and outs of their pasts and how it is effecting their current relationship! Lauren had such a walk around herself because of the past she had never really dealt with. Dave ‘Marty’ wanted time break through that wall but ..... Read on to laugh, cry and grit your teeth as you find out what happens! I received a complimentary copy of this book and choose to write a review.
May 6, 2020
I won this book in a random contest so I wasn't sure I was going to like it but after reading the book, I found I liked the story line and plot(s) just not the use of the vulgarity in the book.
Will I read again? Not sure yet but I might.
My recommendation for the book is that this book is for mature audience due to the vulgarity in the book. If you want an age put on it then I would say anybody 18 or older.
Will I read again? Not sure yet but I might.
My recommendation for the book is that this book is for mature audience due to the vulgarity in the book. If you want an age put on it then I would say anybody 18 or older.
March 12, 2019
Healthy Scratch is one of those books where you want to at times shake the characters and then hug them. Lauren was one of those. I wanted to tell her to just trust herself and Dave. It was wonderful to see her grow as she sought out and dealt with past issues that she had wanted to avoid.
March 12, 2019
Lauren Gentry has some serious demons when it comes to relationships with the way she grew up, and just when she got a bit better, she saw her older sister go through a bad divorce, so she's decided that she's not going to do anything but a friends with benefits thing. She's an independent person with only her best friend, Caryn, and this story starts off with Lauren with a couple of professional opportunities, and even a relationship opportunity with her favorite FWB, professional hockey player, Dave, who just got traded to the Suns. Unfortunately, Lauren isn't going to be an easy sell with all of that baggage she's toting around, so will Dave finally get her to take a chance on them? Now, Lauren & Dave had great chemistry all around, and their sexy times lit the sheets on fire. But the push & pull that Lauren was putting us all through drove me batty to be honest, and yeah I know, she had the issues, but still, I mean when is it time to pull your big girl panties up or get help? It's not like Mr. Martin didn't bend over backwards to prove himself time after time, and it hurts me to take the man's side, trust me, but I have to be fair. However, there comes a time when big twists rocked me, so the f-bombs dropped like crazy, which showed that Robyn M. Ryan definitely kept me on my toes. Anyway, I'm ready for more of this series, and HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
March 4, 2019
Robyn Ryan has done it again! Another phenomenal book with superb writing, romance and hockey! It just doesn’t get better than that! Robyn is an absolute master at character development. You just become so invested in the characters and their lives and thoughts that it becomes emotional for you too. It’s like you’re living it right along with them. The emotions are even more potent if you’ve read the previous books in the series. It’s not 100% necessary, but definitely recommended. Everything will make much more sense, and they’re worth it! This book itself was incredibly engaging and powerful.
The storyline in this book is so poignant and relevant. Reading the past books, I wouldn’t have guessed Lauren’s secrets and how much they impact her adult life and relationships. No spoilers here, but her past relationship with Dave makes much more sense now. Thank goodness for true friends. Sometimes they can make all the difference in the world.
I love how this book focused on Lauren and Dave, but brought in all the other characters from the past books too. Their lives and stories were seamlessly integrated within this one. I’d actually love another story focused on Lauren and Dave. But with the amazing writing Robyn gives us, I’m sure we’ll get more on their story at some point. Of course, I’ll be impatiently waiting on that next book! This one was worth all five incredible stars plus about another ten!
The storyline in this book is so poignant and relevant. Reading the past books, I wouldn’t have guessed Lauren’s secrets and how much they impact her adult life and relationships. No spoilers here, but her past relationship with Dave makes much more sense now. Thank goodness for true friends. Sometimes they can make all the difference in the world.
I love how this book focused on Lauren and Dave, but brought in all the other characters from the past books too. Their lives and stories were seamlessly integrated within this one. I’d actually love another story focused on Lauren and Dave. But with the amazing writing Robyn gives us, I’m sure we’ll get more on their story at some point. Of course, I’ll be impatiently waiting on that next book! This one was worth all five incredible stars plus about another ten!
March 7, 2019
Robyn M. Ryan heats it up with HEALTHY SCRATCH, the first book in the Tampa Suns Hockey series. Lauren Gentry is considering relocating to Tampa to live by her business partner, Caryn Chadwick. She is shocked to discover that her friends-with-benefits, Dave Martin, has just been traded to the Tampa Suns; and Dave wants to be more than friends. This contemporary sports romance is suitable for adult audiences.
I was thrilled when I discovered that Robyn M. Ryan wrote this spin-off of Clearing the Ice series. We originally met Lauren and Dave in that series.
I enjoyed discovering more about Lauren and Dave. They are complicated characters that have great chemistry. Lauren’s history explains a lot about her attitude and self-esteem. She is an admiral heroin that has gone through a great deal. I like Dave’s character. He is supportive and protective.
The plot was skillfully executed. I like that the story went forward and back in time. The stuff going on with Lauren’s family presented interesting challenges. The cyber-bullying was extremely pertinent to this day and age. I would have liked to read Lauren’s article. I know it was about the stuff that was mentioned in the book, but I think it would have been powerful to read her actual article instead of just hearing that there was one. I love the support that Lauren received. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series. I recommend HEALTHY SCRATCH to people that enjoy contemporary sports romances and/or books about overcoming issues like cyber-bullying. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
I was thrilled when I discovered that Robyn M. Ryan wrote this spin-off of Clearing the Ice series. We originally met Lauren and Dave in that series.
I enjoyed discovering more about Lauren and Dave. They are complicated characters that have great chemistry. Lauren’s history explains a lot about her attitude and self-esteem. She is an admiral heroin that has gone through a great deal. I like Dave’s character. He is supportive and protective.
The plot was skillfully executed. I like that the story went forward and back in time. The stuff going on with Lauren’s family presented interesting challenges. The cyber-bullying was extremely pertinent to this day and age. I would have liked to read Lauren’s article. I know it was about the stuff that was mentioned in the book, but I think it would have been powerful to read her actual article instead of just hearing that there was one. I love the support that Lauren received. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series. I recommend HEALTHY SCRATCH to people that enjoy contemporary sports romances and/or books about overcoming issues like cyber-bullying. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
February 18, 2019
A great follow up story with Lauren - Caryn and Andrew's best friend from This Piece of My Soul.
Lauren has always had commitment issues due to her childhood and at one time she shared a torrid relationship with the hunky hockey star Dave Martin. For a while you thought that Lauren would stick out the relationship with Dave while they were in St. Louis, but as things would have it work got in the way along with life's little baggages. Lauren has always not had self-confidence due to her childhood, so naturally in the back of her mind, Dave could have any woman who would be better than her, so she just considered herself and Dave friends with benefits.
I mean their relationship started off with fireworks in the bedroom, but what about the day to day life? Time and life has a way of making people grow up and realize things about themselves.
This is the story.
I do recommend reading the whole series, so you can get a feel about all the characters that appear in the book.
There will be more books to come about the other characters.
Can't wait.
Lauren has always had commitment issues due to her childhood and at one time she shared a torrid relationship with the hunky hockey star Dave Martin. For a while you thought that Lauren would stick out the relationship with Dave while they were in St. Louis, but as things would have it work got in the way along with life's little baggages. Lauren has always not had self-confidence due to her childhood, so naturally in the back of her mind, Dave could have any woman who would be better than her, so she just considered herself and Dave friends with benefits.
I mean their relationship started off with fireworks in the bedroom, but what about the day to day life? Time and life has a way of making people grow up and realize things about themselves.
This is the story.
I do recommend reading the whole series, so you can get a feel about all the characters that appear in the book.
There will be more books to come about the other characters.
Can't wait.
March 9, 2019
Amazing story, Robyn wowed me with this one!
Meet Lauren, had a rough upbringing, going from living with her parents, to moving in with her sister and her husband at the age of 3. The things she did because she felt like she wasn't good enough for her parents to love her, and struggled through school. She got her life together, made a best friend and is living a good life now, but when she see's Dave again, at a party at her best friends house, filled with hot hockey guys, the only one she see's is Dave and she melts. He has some hold on her but she fears commitment because she doesn't want to be left behind again.
Can Dave make her see he's there for the long term and help her through her insecurities? Or will her past come back and threaten any kind of happiness she thought she would have? You have to read along and find out!
Robyn brings to light cyber bullying in this story and nailed it! I loved this story, it made me feel like I was right there with them. 5 hockey pucks for this one!! Grab this asap!!
Meet Lauren, had a rough upbringing, going from living with her parents, to moving in with her sister and her husband at the age of 3. The things she did because she felt like she wasn't good enough for her parents to love her, and struggled through school. She got her life together, made a best friend and is living a good life now, but when she see's Dave again, at a party at her best friends house, filled with hot hockey guys, the only one she see's is Dave and she melts. He has some hold on her but she fears commitment because she doesn't want to be left behind again.
Can Dave make her see he's there for the long term and help her through her insecurities? Or will her past come back and threaten any kind of happiness she thought she would have? You have to read along and find out!
Robyn brings to light cyber bullying in this story and nailed it! I loved this story, it made me feel like I was right there with them. 5 hockey pucks for this one!! Grab this asap!!
March 12, 2019
I kindly received an arc for an honest review
This was my first book by this author, and because I’m a huge fan of sports romance, I jumped onto the opportunity to read this book!
Lauren and Dave know each other for a while already, and had a fling a couple of years back. So this makes it kind of a second chance romance for me ☺️
With relationships, Lauren is very uncertain in my opinion. It’s understandable from where she’s coming from, but I thought it was a wee bit too much. In almost every action / situation she thinks she’s not good enough for the hot, famous hockey player.
Dave is da best. He always wanted more from Lauren, and can finally convince her. But he works hard for it. Takes everything slow, he’s just adorable in his love.
I liked the book. If you love sports romance, go for it!
This was my first book by this author, and because I’m a huge fan of sports romance, I jumped onto the opportunity to read this book!
Lauren and Dave know each other for a while already, and had a fling a couple of years back. So this makes it kind of a second chance romance for me ☺️
With relationships, Lauren is very uncertain in my opinion. It’s understandable from where she’s coming from, but I thought it was a wee bit too much. In almost every action / situation she thinks she’s not good enough for the hot, famous hockey player.
Dave is da best. He always wanted more from Lauren, and can finally convince her. But he works hard for it. Takes everything slow, he’s just adorable in his love.
I liked the book. If you love sports romance, go for it!
March 10, 2019
This book can be read as a stand alone, but if you haven't read the other Tampa books then you loose out the background of the secondary characters. This was a fairly long books, which I liked. And the characters were together for almost the whole book, which I liked. I love when the couples get together then to face down whatever drama is being causes. However we miss out on the whole friends with benefits past of them together. We get just a few pages on how they met and their past up to now. I felt I could have used a bit more. But otherwise this book was great. I loved how Lauren had to face her past in order to have a future. And oh man Dave is a saint for putting up with how long it took Lauren to be herself!
March 12, 2019
5 STAR Review by Jodi for Ruby Red Romance Review
I have to admit, I'm new to Robyn M Ryan, but that doesn't mean I didn't fall in love with her characters. I loved getting to fall in love with Dave. He was such an amazing man. In the beginning, he and Lauren had a mutually beneficial relationship. Lauren and her business partner are looking to relocate. When gets traded to Tampa, he decided to lay it all on the line.
I loved the woman Lauren is. I loved how she has overcome so much. She has a past, one that has influenced her and made her see the world, differently. This book deals with some pretty heavy issues. I loved how it helped Lauren in a positive. I also love how Dave helped to breakdown her walls.
I loved this book from start to finish. I loved getting to know these characters. I can't wait to see what's to come. Please check out this awesome book!
I have to admit, I'm new to Robyn M Ryan, but that doesn't mean I didn't fall in love with her characters. I loved getting to fall in love with Dave. He was such an amazing man. In the beginning, he and Lauren had a mutually beneficial relationship. Lauren and her business partner are looking to relocate. When gets traded to Tampa, he decided to lay it all on the line.
I loved the woman Lauren is. I loved how she has overcome so much. She has a past, one that has influenced her and made her see the world, differently. This book deals with some pretty heavy issues. I loved how it helped Lauren in a positive. I also love how Dave helped to breakdown her walls.
I loved this book from start to finish. I loved getting to know these characters. I can't wait to see what's to come. Please check out this awesome book!
March 12, 2019
Lauren has endured a painful childhood which has left her with self confidence issues and believing that she is unworthy of love which has shaped some of the decisions she makes as an adult. She has a casual relationship with Dave but when he is traded to Tampa things are about to get complicated.
Dave is a professional hockey player who has just been traded to the Tampa Suns. Now that he and Lauren are in the same city he wants more than the casual relationship that they have been having but convincing her is going to be a little more difficult.
Lauren has only ever had true support from one person in her life and that is her best friend which has her questioning what Dave sees in her. This is a story of healing and Dave is so patient and understanding as they work through the demons of her past together. This is a great start to a new series.
Dave is a professional hockey player who has just been traded to the Tampa Suns. Now that he and Lauren are in the same city he wants more than the casual relationship that they have been having but convincing her is going to be a little more difficult.
Lauren has only ever had true support from one person in her life and that is her best friend which has her questioning what Dave sees in her. This is a story of healing and Dave is so patient and understanding as they work through the demons of her past together. This is a great start to a new series.
March 13, 2019
I enjoyed this story. My favorite part of the book is how Dave treats and makes Lauren feel. He gives her something she never felt before.It's one of the more beautiful moments in the book. Reading Lauren's back story and seeing her dealing with her family broke my heart a little. I so wanted her to find her place in the world where she feels like she belongs. If she can find the confidence to let Dave into her life she may just have everything she's looking for. I liked the this book addresses cyber bullying because that's a huge issue in today's society and it's not only children experiencing the awfulness of it. I give Robyn Ryan credit for bringing awareness and bringing something positive out of it for her characters.
March 4, 2019
Reviewed on behalf of 3 Degrees of Fiction book blog.
This is my first book by Robyn M Ryan, and I really did enjoy it. I love to read sports romance novels, especially if they are about hockey, so this one was already a winner in my opinion even before reading the very first word.
Lauren and Dave's story is somewhat a second chance at love story. But their relationship is continually off and on so maybe that isn't the right clarification. It just seems that every time they are with each other they can't stay away. It is Lauren's childhood nagging in the back of her mind that she thinks she can't have someone like Dave in her life permanently. Laurens sister and mother definitely have a lot to answer for.
Dave ended up by being my favourite character in this book. He was steadfast the whole way through. Even when he wanted more from Lauren, he let her set the pace of their relationship. He was a fabulously written man.
I loved the cast of characters in this book. Hopefully a few if not all will end up with their own stories.
This is my first book by Robyn M Ryan, and I really did enjoy it. I love to read sports romance novels, especially if they are about hockey, so this one was already a winner in my opinion even before reading the very first word.
Lauren and Dave's story is somewhat a second chance at love story. But their relationship is continually off and on so maybe that isn't the right clarification. It just seems that every time they are with each other they can't stay away. It is Lauren's childhood nagging in the back of her mind that she thinks she can't have someone like Dave in her life permanently. Laurens sister and mother definitely have a lot to answer for.
Dave ended up by being my favourite character in this book. He was steadfast the whole way through. Even when he wanted more from Lauren, he let her set the pace of their relationship. He was a fabulously written man.
I loved the cast of characters in this book. Hopefully a few if not all will end up with their own stories.
March 10, 2019
After spending a whole day thinking how to write this review I think I finally have the right words so here we go;
I'll be honest and say I struggled with this book at the beginning. I just couldn't understand why was she pushing Dave away when he was suggesting being exclusive. But then around 56% story shifted for me and I began to connect with Lauren and I slowly got to understand why she was the way she was. And I slowly began to fall in love with both MC's. I loved that Dave wouldn't give up on her and their HEA. And when she finally found peace with her past and decided to fully commit to Dave; pure happiness.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
I'll be honest and say I struggled with this book at the beginning. I just couldn't understand why was she pushing Dave away when he was suggesting being exclusive. But then around 56% story shifted for me and I began to connect with Lauren and I slowly got to understand why she was the way she was. And I slowly began to fall in love with both MC's. I loved that Dave wouldn't give up on her and their HEA. And when she finally found peace with her past and decided to fully commit to Dave; pure happiness.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
March 10, 2019
Love hockey romance. Lauren and Dave have known each other for quite some time but Lauren's past haunts her in ways that he doesn't know and she can't bring herself to get into a relationship with him or tell him.. When they both end up in Tampa, Dave tries to show her he really wants to give their relationship a chance, as Lauren starts to let her walls down and fall in love her past comes back to ruin everything. Can Lauren deal with her past and keep Dave ?
Loved watching their relationship grow.. I did get confused on the different names being used since Dave is also called Marty and Mr. Martin all by Lauren
Looking forward to more in this series
Loved watching their relationship grow.. I did get confused on the different names being used since Dave is also called Marty and Mr. Martin all by Lauren
Looking forward to more in this series
March 12, 2019
A second chance romance with a twist! Ashley @Carolina Chic’s Read
Lauren and Dave had a fling when they lived in the same town. They went their separate ways, was it for the best? Lauren’s up bringing makes her struggle with being loved and having a relationship. Dave is a high profile hockey player and wants nothing more than to show Lauren that she is worth being loved. How will these two deal with the sudden onset of the fans dealing with this new relationship? Will Lauren be able to overcome her insecurities? This book has a great message about adult cyber bulling. You will not want to miss this story. My first book from this author and won’t be my last!
Lauren and Dave had a fling when they lived in the same town. They went their separate ways, was it for the best? Lauren’s up bringing makes her struggle with being loved and having a relationship. Dave is a high profile hockey player and wants nothing more than to show Lauren that she is worth being loved. How will these two deal with the sudden onset of the fans dealing with this new relationship? Will Lauren be able to overcome her insecurities? This book has a great message about adult cyber bulling. You will not want to miss this story. My first book from this author and won’t be my last!
March 10, 2019
I enjoyed this sports romance. An engaging story line offers complex characters and lots of emotions. I liked both characters and the chemistry they shared. My heart ached for Lauren. Dave was just so wonderful and honestly, I felt Lauren not only needed someone like him but truly deserved him. A very entertaining, emotional romance that has a angsty air to it. By my own choice I am posting a candid review.
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March 14, 2019
I enjoyed reading this entertaining hockey romance. The characters are good together and have a lot of chemistry. They are vulnerable, have flaws and are easy to connect with.
Lauren and Dave reconnection when Dave is traded to the Tampa Suns. Dave, a sexy, professional hockey player, is a nice guy. Dave and Lauren have known each other for a few years and he is happy when he reconnects with Lauren. Dave wants to be more than friends with Lauren, but is afraid to push too hard because he doesn’t want to scare her. Dave stole my heart; he is always patient and kind and caring with Lauren. He is exactly what she needs.
Lauren is successful, smart and sexy but she lack confidence stemming from a bad childhood and a fractured family. Lauren has a hard time trusting anyone and even though Dave has never given her a reason not to trust him, it takes her a while to let him. You don't want to miss this enchanting story.
Lauren and Dave reconnection when Dave is traded to the Tampa Suns. Dave, a sexy, professional hockey player, is a nice guy. Dave and Lauren have known each other for a few years and he is happy when he reconnects with Lauren. Dave wants to be more than friends with Lauren, but is afraid to push too hard because he doesn’t want to scare her. Dave stole my heart; he is always patient and kind and caring with Lauren. He is exactly what she needs.
Lauren is successful, smart and sexy but she lack confidence stemming from a bad childhood and a fractured family. Lauren has a hard time trusting anyone and even though Dave has never given her a reason not to trust him, it takes her a while to let him. You don't want to miss this enchanting story.
February 26, 2019
Healty Scratch is kind of a second chance romance or maybe a continuation with a few breaks. Lauren and Dave had a fling, but I think because of a convenience factor they stopped, well Lauren did. I think Dave always wanted long term with her. Lauren has issues that are understandable, but I wanted her to let it all go. Easier said than done. I love Dave, Lauren is not my favorite, but she grew on me. I don't know what to think of her sister and mother, they just seemed mean. Her mother redeemed herself a bit, but her sister I don't like at all. She is very spiteful. Fortunately Lauren was able to get past the past and have a great future with Dave. Great second chance romance!
March 12, 2019
The story itself was pretty good and kept me interested enough to keep on reading. For me though, I feel like Dave and Lauren's relationship was a bit of a letdown. They're supposed to start out as friends with benefits and Lauren always talks to Caryn about how hot Dave is and all the hot sex they're having, but the author never shows that. You get none of the UST or heat you'd expect from that type of relationship. It's possible to give that without being graphic. Most of the intimacy was glossed over or completely ignored. Towards the last couple of chapters is when those scenes were a little better.
I was not a fan of the numerous nicknames for the characters. I kinda got lost in who was being talked to or about. An example is Andrew or Drew or Chad... too many. Why did her sister or mother not apologize to her for being so horrible. I just didn't understand why Lauren ends up being the one apologizing to everyone like they had no hand in her upbringing. Made no sense to me.
I was not a fan of the numerous nicknames for the characters. I kinda got lost in who was being talked to or about. An example is Andrew or Drew or Chad... too many. Why did her sister or mother not apologize to her for being so horrible. I just didn't understand why Lauren ends up being the one apologizing to everyone like they had no hand in her upbringing. Made no sense to me.
March 14, 2019
I enjoyed reading this second chance romance. I thought it was well written and a good storyline. This story kept my interest from the beginning to the end. I thought these two characters Dave and Lauren had great chemistry.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of these book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of these book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 25, 2019
I loved this story. Lauren and Dave were so easy to fall in love with. They were real in every sense. I could relate to many aspects of the book and it kept me baited to read on. It definitely can be read as a standalone story, but now that I am done I can't wait to do back and read about the rest of Tampa teammates.
June 19, 2019
Second chances are my favorite and Lauren Gentry not only got a second chance with Dave Martin but also her family. She was a late in life surprise baby for her parents, who did not shower her with love like they had her older sister. Her father was abusive and her mother an alcoholic, so at the tender age of 3, her newly married sister, Audrey and her husband Trevor took over her guardianship and when they eventually had a daughter of their own, Cassie, they were more like sisters than aunt and niece. Lauren suppressed the memories of her young years, but acting out in her teens. Once in college, however, she met Caryn, who became her best friend and business partner. Caryn's husband Andrew and Dave are both hockey players. Her relationship with Dave is almost ruined by her feelings of being unloved and unwanted as a child and not being able to trust he will stick with her, but Dave is made of stronger stuff and wants Lauren in his life.
This is the first book that I have read from this author and the first in a series, yet I felt like I was dropped into the middle of a story. Caryn and Andrew's story was in a previous trilogy, and their back story was lightly inserted into the book, but it would have been more helpful to have had a Cast of Characters, a Prologue with what had happened to Lauren and Dave during their summer in Vancouver, in the other series or minimally had the Book by Robyn M. Ryan before the title page instead of at the end. There are also many other characters that were inserted but glossed over who were probably in the previous books. I also have to wonder who the two people are on the cover, because Lauren has auburn hair.
The main characters are well developed and the story engrossing. Lauren's continued angst got annoying after a while, when she would not open up to Dave, afraid to push him away, but this is a common theme of romance novels, failure to communicate creating misunderstandings. Nevertheless, this book is well written and I recommend it to all romance readers, hockey fans or not.
I received a free advanced copy of this book from the publisher, so some things might have changed in the final edition. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
This is the first book that I have read from this author and the first in a series, yet I felt like I was dropped into the middle of a story. Caryn and Andrew's story was in a previous trilogy, and their back story was lightly inserted into the book, but it would have been more helpful to have had a Cast of Characters, a Prologue with what had happened to Lauren and Dave during their summer in Vancouver, in the other series or minimally had the Book by Robyn M. Ryan before the title page instead of at the end. There are also many other characters that were inserted but glossed over who were probably in the previous books. I also have to wonder who the two people are on the cover, because Lauren has auburn hair.
The main characters are well developed and the story engrossing. Lauren's continued angst got annoying after a while, when she would not open up to Dave, afraid to push him away, but this is a common theme of romance novels, failure to communicate creating misunderstandings. Nevertheless, this book is well written and I recommend it to all romance readers, hockey fans or not.
I received a free advanced copy of this book from the publisher, so some things might have changed in the final edition. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
March 29, 2019
i read this book as part of an arc program. This is the story of Lauren and Dave (Marty). Lauren was a marketing agent and she was partners and best friends with Caryn, the wife of a professional hockey player named Andrew. Lauren was in Tampa staying with Caryn and Andrew after finishing a long job for a difficult client. When Dave was traded to the same team, Andrew offered him a place to stay also. Lauren and Dave had an on/ off again relationship, but it ended when Dave asked for a exclusive relationship and they drifted apart. Lauren was raised by her sister after her sister took her from her abusive parents. Lauren never told Dave about her family history or about her troubled youth. Lauren cared for Dave but she was so scared of a relationship. When Lauren and Dave reunite, Dave tells her he wants more from her than a friends with benefits relationship. Lauren agrees and they take things day by day. Meanwhile Lauren's family is starting to cause drama and her secrets from the past are being revealed, leaving Lauren scared Dave will not want to be with her anymore. I enjoyed this book. This was an emotional story and Lauren had to go through a lot to heal from her past. I really thought Dave was a great guy and he really loved Lauren. I look forward to reading more of this series.
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