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Philadelphia Bulldogs #3
Against The Boards
ROXANNE
When I applied for a job with the Philadelphia Bulldogs, I never thought they would offer it to me on the spot. Luckily for me, my twin was letting me stay at his place while he played hockey overseas.
Then he dropped the bomb that Benny was his new roommate. You know, the only guy on the team I can’t stand. I don’t know how we’re gonna survive being roommates. Because honestly? Some days I wasn’t sure if I wanted to kiss him or punch him.
BENNY
When TJ told me his sister was moving to Philly and needed a place to stay, I knew I should have high-tailed it out of town for the offseason.
But I didn’t. Because I’m all sorts of foolish when it comes to that feisty woman. Every time our paths cross, I open my mouth and make her mad. Usually with good reason, too.
The two of us being roommates was bad news. We’re either going to kill each other or I’m gonna give her the best kiss of her life. I’m not sure which is worse.
The Philadelphia Bulldogs hockey team are back, in this all new-standalone novel. Books can be enjoyed in any order. If you love a steamy enemies to lovers romance, this one is for you.
When I applied for a job with the Philadelphia Bulldogs, I never thought they would offer it to me on the spot. Luckily for me, my twin was letting me stay at his place while he played hockey overseas.
Then he dropped the bomb that Benny was his new roommate. You know, the only guy on the team I can’t stand. I don’t know how we’re gonna survive being roommates. Because honestly? Some days I wasn’t sure if I wanted to kiss him or punch him.
BENNY
When TJ told me his sister was moving to Philly and needed a place to stay, I knew I should have high-tailed it out of town for the offseason.
But I didn’t. Because I’m all sorts of foolish when it comes to that feisty woman. Every time our paths cross, I open my mouth and make her mad. Usually with good reason, too.
The two of us being roommates was bad news. We’re either going to kill each other or I’m gonna give her the best kiss of her life. I’m not sure which is worse.
The Philadelphia Bulldogs hockey team are back, in this all new-standalone novel. Books can be enjoyed in any order. If you love a steamy enemies to lovers romance, this one is for you.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2022
About the author
Danica Flynn
16 books211 followersDanica Flynn is a marketer by day, and a writer by nights and weekends. AKA she doesn’t sleep! She is a rabid hockey fan of both The Philadelphia Flyers and the Metropolitan Riveters. When not writing, she can be found hanging with her partner, playing video games, and reading a ton of books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
February 21, 2022
This is strong enemies to lovers romance. One moment they are at each other’s throats and the next they are ripping their clothes off. If you like an enemies to lovers romance, you should absolutely give this a try. I did enjoy the real body rep and Bi-sexual rep in this story. It was very well done, and the author was very respectful to both topics. Benny and Roxie deserve their HEA. Both deserve to have that one person in their lives that loves them and would lay their lives down for them.
Full review at https://Bookcaseandcoffee.com
Full review at https://Bookcaseandcoffee.com
February 28, 2022
Book three in the series brings Roxanne and Benny's story. It's a sweet and sexy enemies to lovers romance with strong characters and an entertaining story line. It's a fun story,is well written and I enjoyed reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
April 12, 2024
Another free iBook lol
August 24, 2025
I love this series and I have been not so patiently begging Danica to hand over anything about Rox and Benny. I was lucky enough to have free time and could read an ARC.
These two are extreme enemies to lovers. In the beginning, they despise each other. They can be straight up rude to each other. If you have read other books in the series, they're disliked of each other is hinted at. Upon first meeting each other Benny opened his mouth and inserted his gigantic foot. And Rox is not someone who is going to let him forget it and is not going to let him just glaze over it like it never happened.
They are also two people that just need a good hate bang to move on because we all know they're attracted to each other, But life isn't that easy, even in fiction.
The end up as temporary roommates and do you have to wonder how long it's going to take for them to finally end up together. Banter, annoyance, straight up comedic moments fill this book.
Roxy is everything I love in my romance heroines - strong, independent, and takes no b.s.
Once these two get together, the sparks are off the charts and it's so much fun to see unfold.
These two are extreme enemies to lovers. In the beginning, they despise each other. They can be straight up rude to each other. If you have read other books in the series, they're disliked of each other is hinted at. Upon first meeting each other Benny opened his mouth and inserted his gigantic foot. And Rox is not someone who is going to let him forget it and is not going to let him just glaze over it like it never happened.
They are also two people that just need a good hate bang to move on because we all know they're attracted to each other, But life isn't that easy, even in fiction.
The end up as temporary roommates and do you have to wonder how long it's going to take for them to finally end up together. Banter, annoyance, straight up comedic moments fill this book.
Roxy is everything I love in my romance heroines - strong, independent, and takes no b.s.
Once these two get together, the sparks are off the charts and it's so much fun to see unfold.
January 31, 2022
This was one of those books that I liked enough to finish in one sitting, but at the same time there were several things that could have been better. I was waffling between three and four stars but decided on four because the book ended better than it started.
Roxanne recently ended a relationship, decided to move, and got hired by an NHL team in a different country. Apparently, this team has trouble recruiting staff so she needs to start the next day. So she urgently needs a place to stay and her brother Tristan, a player in the said team, lets her borrow his room for a while. The only problem is, Michael "Benny" Bennett also lives in Tristan's condo, and Rox has hated his guts for as long as she's known him. Benny put his foot in his mouth the first time they met, and she can hold a grudge like a champion.
Now I love a good enemies-to-lovers romance because those couples usually have the best banter and the simmering heat they try to deny. But in the beginning these people have more belligerence than banter, being rude to each other simply because they can, and it gets a little old. She responds with knee-jerk hostility to whatever he says, speaks with venom, and growls at him for merely existing. She's mad at him for checking her out, while shamelessly checking him out. He says dumb things because he's drunk and horny. But even when they do something nice or help each other out they still fight. He cooked her a nice dinner and then they started sniping at each other because she wanted to do the dishes. She's cold and she gets mad when he offers her his jacket. Most of their friends think they fight because they secretly want each other, and it turns out that they do.
The story gets better once they stop fighting all the time. Roxanne doesn't want her brother to know about their changed relationship as she thinks Benny is getting traded and that it's going to be a casual fling. (That's by far the stupidest trope: the brother who gets mad because his sister is dating someone he knows. How is it any of his business? But Benny is a champion and recognizes that the misogyny in this.) She keeps talking about how she's been such a jerk and doesn't deserve Benny, and how she's not hot enough for him. He keeps insisting that she's plenty hot and he liked their fights anyway. She has heard some demeaning comments about her size but I suppose it's hard to see yourself as undesirable for long if you're with someone who wants you as often as Benny does.
Other themes in the book include c0ncussions (she got injured playing hockey some years ago and Benny helps her skate again), and bisexuality. When Roxanne first came out as a bisexual to her parents they weren't understanding and supportive, so she immediately wrote them off and hasn't picked up any of their phone calls in four years. Her ex-girlfriend didn't really appreciate her bisexuality either, and this is a sore spot for her. When Benny's sister came out as gay to her parents it also didn't go well, so Benny can relate to some of what she's feeling and he is supportive of diversity (as a hockey player with Mexican heritage, he is part of that diversity). When her parents contact her again, it's more knee-jerk hostility from Roxanne, but maybe she can learn to forgive and build bridges instead of burning them.
A lot of this book is Benny trying to make her feel good, in many more ways than one. I liked his character, he is sweet, caring, and can hold his own in the bedroom. But it feels like he is making much more effort than she is.
Maturity level: There is sexual content and profanity.
The writing style is otherwise fine but I thought several passages are a bit repetitive. The same dialogue gets repeated using almost the same wordings; the same points get made over and over again. It sucks to break new skates in, she's hot when she's mad, and nobody ever sent Roxanne flowers before.
I received a Booksprouts arc and this is a voluntary review.
Roxanne recently ended a relationship, decided to move, and got hired by an NHL team in a different country. Apparently, this team has trouble recruiting staff so she needs to start the next day. So she urgently needs a place to stay and her brother Tristan, a player in the said team, lets her borrow his room for a while. The only problem is, Michael "Benny" Bennett also lives in Tristan's condo, and Rox has hated his guts for as long as she's known him. Benny put his foot in his mouth the first time they met, and she can hold a grudge like a champion.
Now I love a good enemies-to-lovers romance because those couples usually have the best banter and the simmering heat they try to deny. But in the beginning these people have more belligerence than banter, being rude to each other simply because they can, and it gets a little old. She responds with knee-jerk hostility to whatever he says, speaks with venom, and growls at him for merely existing. She's mad at him for checking her out, while shamelessly checking him out. He says dumb things because he's drunk and horny. But even when they do something nice or help each other out they still fight. He cooked her a nice dinner and then they started sniping at each other because she wanted to do the dishes. She's cold and she gets mad when he offers her his jacket. Most of their friends think they fight because they secretly want each other, and it turns out that they do.
The story gets better once they stop fighting all the time. Roxanne doesn't want her brother to know about their changed relationship as she thinks Benny is getting traded and that it's going to be a casual fling. (That's by far the stupidest trope: the brother who gets mad because his sister is dating someone he knows. How is it any of his business? But Benny is a champion and recognizes that the misogyny in this.) She keeps talking about how she's been such a jerk and doesn't deserve Benny, and how she's not hot enough for him. He keeps insisting that she's plenty hot and he liked their fights anyway. She has heard some demeaning comments about her size but I suppose it's hard to see yourself as undesirable for long if you're with someone who wants you as often as Benny does.
Other themes in the book include c0ncussions (she got injured playing hockey some years ago and Benny helps her skate again), and bisexuality. When Roxanne first came out as a bisexual to her parents they weren't understanding and supportive, so she immediately wrote them off and hasn't picked up any of their phone calls in four years. Her ex-girlfriend didn't really appreciate her bisexuality either, and this is a sore spot for her. When Benny's sister came out as gay to her parents it also didn't go well, so Benny can relate to some of what she's feeling and he is supportive of diversity (as a hockey player with Mexican heritage, he is part of that diversity). When her parents contact her again, it's more knee-jerk hostility from Roxanne, but maybe she can learn to forgive and build bridges instead of burning them.
A lot of this book is Benny trying to make her feel good, in many more ways than one. I liked his character, he is sweet, caring, and can hold his own in the bedroom. But it feels like he is making much more effort than she is.
Maturity level: There is sexual content and profanity.
The writing style is otherwise fine but I thought several passages are a bit repetitive. The same dialogue gets repeated using almost the same wordings; the same points get made over and over again. It sucks to break new skates in, she's hot when she's mad, and nobody ever sent Roxanne flowers before.
I received a Booksprouts arc and this is a voluntary review.
February 3, 2022
Against The Boards is an enemies to lovers story, where the characters are BITTER enemies. I’m talking one cannot even breathe without the other making some sort of rude, snarky, crazy ass comment. There is a lot of hate going on.
Our hero and heroine do come to realize that they are being a bit on the dramatic side, and eventually curb the attitudes (more so on the hero’s side I feel) but honestly the whole time I was reading this I kept hearing that TikTok sound bite “Is it me?! Am I the drama? I don’t think I’m the drama. Maybe I am. Am I the villain?! I don’t think I’m the villain……”
My thoughts on Roxie. She was a lot for me, especially in the beginning. She absolutely despised Benny because of this dumb thing he said when he first met her, and yes, asking a girl if her boobs are real is probably not the best opening line when just meeting someone, but my goodness. She often describes herself as a bitch during the story, but Benny just says she can be “stubborn” and “difficult”. I just thought she could have toned it down a notch or two. Girl was in a full on rage all the time. I warmed up to her when she and Benny finally started to be real with each other and treat each other respectfully. At one point Benny tells her that he likes that they aren’t fighting anymore and she says she likes that too, and I thought “thank goodness!!”. It was about time she let it go. It must have been mentally exhausting to feel that much animosity towards someone.
Benny I loved. I feel like his treatment of Roxie was mostly just a response to how she treated him. He even says that he was into her from the first moment he saw her and that he tries to be nice, but can you blame a guy? A bad attitude will be returned with an equally bad attitude. Even when Benny “hated” Roxie he still liked her. And holy heck, that man sounded hot as hell, and he was so great with Roxie once they finally got together. He encouraged Roxie to play hockey, a sport she absolutely loved. He took care of her when she was having a rough week at work. He helped her with her ex. And when things did go a bit sideways he fought for what they had together. I thought he was a great boyfriend.
I did like the story and I definitely wanted to see these two get their happily ever after. I just wish I would have liked Roxie a little more.
Our hero and heroine do come to realize that they are being a bit on the dramatic side, and eventually curb the attitudes (more so on the hero’s side I feel) but honestly the whole time I was reading this I kept hearing that TikTok sound bite “Is it me?! Am I the drama? I don’t think I’m the drama. Maybe I am. Am I the villain?! I don’t think I’m the villain……”
My thoughts on Roxie. She was a lot for me, especially in the beginning. She absolutely despised Benny because of this dumb thing he said when he first met her, and yes, asking a girl if her boobs are real is probably not the best opening line when just meeting someone, but my goodness. She often describes herself as a bitch during the story, but Benny just says she can be “stubborn” and “difficult”. I just thought she could have toned it down a notch or two. Girl was in a full on rage all the time. I warmed up to her when she and Benny finally started to be real with each other and treat each other respectfully. At one point Benny tells her that he likes that they aren’t fighting anymore and she says she likes that too, and I thought “thank goodness!!”. It was about time she let it go. It must have been mentally exhausting to feel that much animosity towards someone.
Benny I loved. I feel like his treatment of Roxie was mostly just a response to how she treated him. He even says that he was into her from the first moment he saw her and that he tries to be nice, but can you blame a guy? A bad attitude will be returned with an equally bad attitude. Even when Benny “hated” Roxie he still liked her. And holy heck, that man sounded hot as hell, and he was so great with Roxie once they finally got together. He encouraged Roxie to play hockey, a sport she absolutely loved. He took care of her when she was having a rough week at work. He helped her with her ex. And when things did go a bit sideways he fought for what they had together. I thought he was a great boyfriend.
I did like the story and I definitely wanted to see these two get their happily ever after. I just wish I would have liked Roxie a little more.
March 1, 2022
Having met Benny in previous books I was in love with him from the start. I love his sense of humor and easy going attitude. But I LOVE how he gets tongue tied and says the dumbest stuff when Roxy is around. This girl totally sets him off kilter it and adored watching how she will react. Roxy is very gruff, and I would consider her an acquired taste. She is feisty but has a soft sensitive side that she doesn't let a lot of people see. There is just something about Roxy that There is definitely something about Roxy that has Benny so intrigued but she also happens to be his friend and teammate's twin sister. When fate brings them together in close quarters they do all they can to stay clear of each other, until Roxy needs Benny. These two of this amazing banter and some serious chemistry….I was basically yelling at them to just kiss already! So when they finally do and the sparks fly. They IGNITE people. These two have some serious chemistry and it is so hot! They literally cannot keep their hands off each other. Benny really brings out the best in Roxy. These two really understand each other in a way that their other partners haven’t always. Benny really steps up for Roxy and shows her how she deserves to be loved. Roxy in turn allows Benny to see her true self and is vulnerable. As they begin to build their relationship they sort of shut the outside world out. Both have their own past struggles and hurt that they work through together. I think what stands out most for me about this book is that Benny loves so hard. He not only tells Roxy he loves her but he shows her in the most amazing and supportive ways. For a big gruff hockey players he is a softy that you will fall head over heels in love with. Roxy learns to let go and trust in Benny and their relationship.
If you have loved the other books in this series you definitely need to pick this one up, too. Roxy and Benny will set your kindle on fire! And her feisty personality will keep you smiling the entire book!
If you have loved the other books in this series you definitely need to pick this one up, too. Roxy and Benny will set your kindle on fire! And her feisty personality will keep you smiling the entire book!
March 5, 2022
Against the Boards is book three in this series and is brand new this week. It is the story of Roxanne Dejardins and Michael Bennet, Rox and Benny. Rox careens through life with a chip the size of a cornerstone on her shoulder. As a main character, she comes off as quite not likable. She is aggressive and prickly and she can hold a grudge (for understandable reasons). Her first instinct is to take offense and fight it out, without a moment’s thought for whether or not it is warranted. Her strike first and hit hard mentality takes some getting used to. She is scary enough to make grown men who carry sticks and pound on each other for a living walk cautiously, most of them anyway.
Benny has been among my favorite Bulldogs from the beginning. Despite his horrible taste in women, he seemed like a great guy and I enjoyed getting to know him and what drives him better. Thank goodness he has hockey skills because his girl skills need some polish. In the previous books, his love life causes some eyes to roll, but Rox really has his tongue tied in knots, or maybe it is that he is always trying to fit both feet in his mouth at the same time.
This is actually my favorite book of the series because it shows the most growth for the characters. Benny is able to get to the root of Roxy’s issues with the world in general and he manages to have a conversation without talking between his toes. While Roxy may never be the soft sweet girl next door, she does learn to stop leading with her chin. She also learns to let someone in. Toxic as the mix between the two is, there is satisfaction in how they work things through. I am all in for the next book.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5
Benny has been among my favorite Bulldogs from the beginning. Despite his horrible taste in women, he seemed like a great guy and I enjoyed getting to know him and what drives him better. Thank goodness he has hockey skills because his girl skills need some polish. In the previous books, his love life causes some eyes to roll, but Rox really has his tongue tied in knots, or maybe it is that he is always trying to fit both feet in his mouth at the same time.
This is actually my favorite book of the series because it shows the most growth for the characters. Benny is able to get to the root of Roxy’s issues with the world in general and he manages to have a conversation without talking between his toes. While Roxy may never be the soft sweet girl next door, she does learn to stop leading with her chin. She also learns to let someone in. Toxic as the mix between the two is, there is satisfaction in how they work things through. I am all in for the next book.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5
March 12, 2022
This book is an enemies to lovers story, where the characters are clearly enemies. Roxanne recently ended a relationship, and got hired by an NHL team. She urgently needs a place to stay and her brother Tristan, a player in the said team, lets her borrow his room for a while. The only problem is, Benny Bennett also lives in the condo, and she absolutely hates him.
Their relationship starts by being absolutely rude to each other, and then works towards fun banter. I personally didn’t like this much, but enemies to lovers is not my favorite genre. I loved them once they stopped fighting all the time. As their relationship develops they have more to deal with, like fear of him being transferred, as well as hiding their relationship from others. I have to admit at the beginning of the book I hated Roxie, but it was worth reading to see her character growth. Bennie was so supportive and helped her enjoy things she loved as well as move on to the next chapter of her life.
I liked the concussion discussion and how scary can be. Having a husband who suffers with Post Concussion Syndrome this part of the story was very interesting. Another was the bisexuality aspect and how her parents did not accept it. It was worth reading to see how they started to make amends and grow their relationship again.
Overall it was a good book with a lot of themes and interesting characters. I recommend you give it a try. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Their relationship starts by being absolutely rude to each other, and then works towards fun banter. I personally didn’t like this much, but enemies to lovers is not my favorite genre. I loved them once they stopped fighting all the time. As their relationship develops they have more to deal with, like fear of him being transferred, as well as hiding their relationship from others. I have to admit at the beginning of the book I hated Roxie, but it was worth reading to see her character growth. Bennie was so supportive and helped her enjoy things she loved as well as move on to the next chapter of her life.
I liked the concussion discussion and how scary can be. Having a husband who suffers with Post Concussion Syndrome this part of the story was very interesting. Another was the bisexuality aspect and how her parents did not accept it. It was worth reading to see how they started to make amends and grow their relationship again.
Overall it was a good book with a lot of themes and interesting characters. I recommend you give it a try. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 2, 2022
A sweet and spicy enemies(ish) to lovers romance and the third book in the Philadelphia Bulldogs series.
Roxanne has just gotten out of a bad relationship and is in Philadelphia visiting her brother when she applies and gets a job with the team. She moves into his apartment temporarily and also gains a roommate, Benny. The two didn’t start off on the right foot when they met a few years ago. But when Roxanne needs his help more than once, he comes through and the two end up in a casual relationship that develops into more.
I enjoyed this story because it touches on a lot of different things. Roxanne is bisexual and just got out of a relationship with a woman. Manny is Mexican-American and the story talks about how the NHL needs more inclusivity. I loved Manny and thought he was a great cinnamon roll guy who was sweet, funny, protective and a dirty talker in bed. Roxanne is spicy, independent and stands up for herself. I love that she was bisexual, an athlete ans curvy. She has her immature moments and her comebacks are a little messy but growing up with a twin brother and on the ice, she’s going to pick up the chirping. Danica Flynn absolutely knows her hockey and it shows in writing when she writes about games or any of the skills of the players.
Roxanne has just gotten out of a bad relationship and is in Philadelphia visiting her brother when she applies and gets a job with the team. She moves into his apartment temporarily and also gains a roommate, Benny. The two didn’t start off on the right foot when they met a few years ago. But when Roxanne needs his help more than once, he comes through and the two end up in a casual relationship that develops into more.
I enjoyed this story because it touches on a lot of different things. Roxanne is bisexual and just got out of a relationship with a woman. Manny is Mexican-American and the story talks about how the NHL needs more inclusivity. I loved Manny and thought he was a great cinnamon roll guy who was sweet, funny, protective and a dirty talker in bed. Roxanne is spicy, independent and stands up for herself. I love that she was bisexual, an athlete ans curvy. She has her immature moments and her comebacks are a little messy but growing up with a twin brother and on the ice, she’s going to pick up the chirping. Danica Flynn absolutely knows her hockey and it shows in writing when she writes about games or any of the skills of the players.
March 2, 2022
Going into this book with an open mind. You will want to dislike Roxie, but by the end of the book you will see just how genuine she is in her attitude and emotions. She is a hard as nails woman who is willing to fight for herself. She has some family issues that she continually deals with, but she has an extremely solid relationship with her twin and best friend TJ. Her family issues show growth, and while not perfect by the end of the book, there is work towards fixing what was broken.
Benny is a guy, who when he met Roxie, he went dumb… this seems to be the theme for him when she is around. So, he accidentally pushes her buttons over and over again. Which in turn, makes him push back. These two are oil and water but once they move past their issues, they work really well together. Benny is supportive of Roxie in every way possible, and it endears me more to him.
These two are hot and perfect together, and I love the fact that Danica kept these two true to their convictions and choices from page one to the last page.
Benny is a guy, who when he met Roxie, he went dumb… this seems to be the theme for him when she is around. So, he accidentally pushes her buttons over and over again. Which in turn, makes him push back. These two are oil and water but once they move past their issues, they work really well together. Benny is supportive of Roxie in every way possible, and it endears me more to him.
These two are hot and perfect together, and I love the fact that Danica kept these two true to their convictions and choices from page one to the last page.
March 1, 2022
Roxanne got a job with the Philadelphia Bulldogs. She just went through a very bad breakup and isn't in the mood for romance male or female. She is happy to have a place to stay thanks to her twin. He plays for the Philadelphia Bulldogs. Her twin states that she will have to sleep on the couch since the spare room went to Benny. Roxanne hates the guy with a passion because she thinks he is a major jerk.
Michael Bennett (aka "Benny") is looking for a place to stay temporarily since he just broke up with his girlfriend. He isn't looking to be tied down and that was why he ended his relationship. When he learns that his roommate/friend/team mate's twin sister was going to be staying with them, he can't figure out why he just didn't high tail it out of town.
What follows is a lot of tension between the two. Both denying the fact that they really like each other.
Must read to see what happens.
I received this has a free ARC copy in return for a honest review.
Michael Bennett (aka "Benny") is looking for a place to stay temporarily since he just broke up with his girlfriend. He isn't looking to be tied down and that was why he ended his relationship. When he learns that his roommate/friend/team mate's twin sister was going to be staying with them, he can't figure out why he just didn't high tail it out of town.
What follows is a lot of tension between the two. Both denying the fact that they really like each other.
Must read to see what happens.
I received this has a free ARC copy in return for a honest review.
March 22, 2022
Book 3 in Danica's Bulldogs series is a perfect enemies to lovers read. A curvy, bisexual, enemies to lovers read and I loved every minute of this story!
Roxanne Desjardins, TJs twin sister, has hated Benny since their first meeting. Michael "Benny" Bennett has always fumbled his words when around Rox. He's a fan of her curves.
But when Rox and her girlfriend of three years breaks up, she decides to apply for a job in Philly to be closer to her brother and ends up moving into his apartment to sleep on his couch while she looks for her own place.
Benny has just become TJs new roommate after Noah Kennedy has moved out to move in with his girlfriend Dinah (their book is book 1, Take the Shot).
But living together, while TJ is overseas playing hockey in europe for the summer, begins to chip away at their defenses and it doesn't take long before they are falling into Benny's bed together.
Roxanne Desjardins, TJs twin sister, has hated Benny since their first meeting. Michael "Benny" Bennett has always fumbled his words when around Rox. He's a fan of her curves.
But when Rox and her girlfriend of three years breaks up, she decides to apply for a job in Philly to be closer to her brother and ends up moving into his apartment to sleep on his couch while she looks for her own place.
Benny has just become TJs new roommate after Noah Kennedy has moved out to move in with his girlfriend Dinah (their book is book 1, Take the Shot).
But living together, while TJ is overseas playing hockey in europe for the summer, begins to chip away at their defenses and it doesn't take long before they are falling into Benny's bed together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 27, 2022
This story is an enemy to lovers, sports romance with forced proximity, and a feisty main character. The author incorporates hockey, bisexuality, and female professionals in this book. The romance itself was a whirlwind, and it definitely didn't lack in steamy scenes. All the characters will capture your heart on this team and have you begging for more. I love reading about the tough alpha males turning into protective teddy bears with their women. I enjoyed this read and can't wait to read more in this series.
Roxanne is looking for a job, a new life, and a new place. She gets hired for a manager position with her twin brother's hockey team. Her brother has a roommate, one she isn't too fond of. She doesn't have the best relationship with her parents after coming about her preference for both sexes. But she is desperate, and he offers her to stay at his place for a while.
Benny is on the team but seems to be arch enemies with Roxy and, of course, is her temporary apartment mate. They have some animosity toward each other, but damn, it is funny. Oh, this book gets steamy as he figures out how to turn off an argument. He's even running out for his family, which definitely doesn't get him points. However, as this story progresses, we see a different side of this alpha male, and he becomes a sweet teddy bear.
Roxanne is still a spitfire, but I love how feisty and confident she is in this story. The author absolutely includes sports in this romance, mainly hockey. I do like that against the odds, this couple works out. This is a whirlwind, but it ends happily. I'm totally intrigued with all the characters on this team and can't wait to read more.
Roxanne is looking for a job, a new life, and a new place. She gets hired for a manager position with her twin brother's hockey team. Her brother has a roommate, one she isn't too fond of. She doesn't have the best relationship with her parents after coming about her preference for both sexes. But she is desperate, and he offers her to stay at his place for a while.
Benny is on the team but seems to be arch enemies with Roxy and, of course, is her temporary apartment mate. They have some animosity toward each other, but damn, it is funny. Oh, this book gets steamy as he figures out how to turn off an argument. He's even running out for his family, which definitely doesn't get him points. However, as this story progresses, we see a different side of this alpha male, and he becomes a sweet teddy bear.
Roxanne is still a spitfire, but I love how feisty and confident she is in this story. The author absolutely includes sports in this romance, mainly hockey. I do like that against the odds, this couple works out. This is a whirlwind, but it ends happily. I'm totally intrigued with all the characters on this team and can't wait to read more.
February 24, 2022
Do you like enemies to lovers? Like true hate turned into an all consuming love…this book is for you! Add in a hot hockey player and a wicked fierce woman who can handle her own and you’ve got a good story.
I liked this book a lot, I can’t resist a good hockey romance and this had so much more. There are some sensitive subjects (non triggering) discussed in this book and in my option the author handled them perfectly. I won’t lie, Rox was not my favorite when this books started but by the end I appreciated her fierceness. Benny is all the heart eyes- this guy is the true definition of an alphroll- he is hard when he needs to be and a softy all the others, I adored him.
While these two were like cats and dogs they had a true connection that they just couldn’t ignore. It’s a super easy, fun and quick read that I totally recommend.
I liked this book a lot, I can’t resist a good hockey romance and this had so much more. There are some sensitive subjects (non triggering) discussed in this book and in my option the author handled them perfectly. I won’t lie, Rox was not my favorite when this books started but by the end I appreciated her fierceness. Benny is all the heart eyes- this guy is the true definition of an alphroll- he is hard when he needs to be and a softy all the others, I adored him.
While these two were like cats and dogs they had a true connection that they just couldn’t ignore. It’s a super easy, fun and quick read that I totally recommend.
February 25, 2022
Danica Flynn has written a great novel with strong characters, various themes running the storyline and HEA.
Michael Bennett is a professional hockey player, roommate to Roxie's twin brother. Straight up big guy, big hearted, strong personality and thorn in her side. Their first meeting and his opening comment has been the mainstay of their constant arguments.
Roxie leaves her ex, being cheated on, dumped and thrown out of the apartment, moving to stay with her brother until she can sort herself out and gets a job working for his NFL team.
Being in close proximity brings a lot of things to light and they come to realise that hate turns to love. Anxiety and underlying worries are still there but Michael is determined she is worth holding on to and fights for her every step of the way. She in turn calls him out and ensures he knows his efforts are much appreciated.
Michael Bennett is a professional hockey player, roommate to Roxie's twin brother. Straight up big guy, big hearted, strong personality and thorn in her side. Their first meeting and his opening comment has been the mainstay of their constant arguments.
Roxie leaves her ex, being cheated on, dumped and thrown out of the apartment, moving to stay with her brother until she can sort herself out and gets a job working for his NFL team.
Being in close proximity brings a lot of things to light and they come to realise that hate turns to love. Anxiety and underlying worries are still there but Michael is determined she is worth holding on to and fights for her every step of the way. She in turn calls him out and ensures he knows his efforts are much appreciated.
February 26, 2022
4.5 stars. Roxanne and Benny, the lead characters, have been antagonising each other since they met and Benny stuck his foot in his mouth and Roxanne reacted with venomous vigour. Both acknowledge their attraction to the other to friends but not each other. Then they’re both single and sharing an apartment…
This story is dual POV, well written, and a great enemies-to-lovers romance. Whilst the extreme bickering the characters engage in is not my idea of a good time, the author shows how much THEY like it, which really is the point. The intimate moments are integrated into the story but seriously hot and steamy and Benny is a gorgeous gentle character with the strength to push through Roxanne’s habitual defence mechanisms. I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my honest review.
This story is dual POV, well written, and a great enemies-to-lovers romance. Whilst the extreme bickering the characters engage in is not my idea of a good time, the author shows how much THEY like it, which really is the point. The intimate moments are integrated into the story but seriously hot and steamy and Benny is a gorgeous gentle character with the strength to push through Roxanne’s habitual defence mechanisms. I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my honest review.
March 1, 2022
There are a lot of hockey romance novels out there. A Lot. While there is nothing particularly wrong with this one there’s also nothing special about it either. It’s just average. This is an enemies to lovers which is a troupe I really enjoy and it was fine. The mains were interesting and not as typical as these books usually have. Roxanne is bisexual and Benny is Hispanic. He had a sort of sweetness under his alpha hockey persona that I liked but to be honest Rox was kind of abrasive at times and I initially didn’t care for her. It made it hard to connect with them as a couple. Also the story itself didn’t flow as smoothly as it should have.
I wouldn’t necessarily not read another book by Danica, this was my first, but I’m not planning to deliberately seek one out, either. I will have to see…
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I wouldn’t necessarily not read another book by Danica, this was my first, but I’m not planning to deliberately seek one out, either. I will have to see…
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 14, 2022
While this is part of a sports romance series, the focus of Against The Boards is on Roxanne and Benny's relationship. One thing that kept bothering me was the immaturity of both main characters - but then I realized that they are both only in their mid-twenties! There is a lot of 'he/she broke my heart' but a few weeks later everything is rosy with new love interests. I have to say, I liked Benny a lot more than I did her. He came across as really dedicated to both his family and his team. And when he decided to go for a relationship with Roxanne, he went all in. I was rooting more for him and was glad to see them get theier HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 25, 2022
Philadelphia Bulldogs # 3
Roxanne got the sales manager position with the Bulldogs and was surprised she did. After an ugly breakup with her girlfriend she moves to Philly and in with her twin brother TJ who is the right-winger for the Bulldogs. How lucky since her brother was playing hockey overseas but then he says oh, Michael Bennett is staying there too and was his new roommate. Benny plays with TJ and is the left-winger for the team. She and Benny fight every time they are around each other, so this won't be good.
Can they get along until Rox finds a place or will they fight the whole time. Do they really hate each other that bad?
This is funny but also sweet. I love the snarky bit between Rox and Benny.
4 1/2 stars
Roxanne got the sales manager position with the Bulldogs and was surprised she did. After an ugly breakup with her girlfriend she moves to Philly and in with her twin brother TJ who is the right-winger for the Bulldogs. How lucky since her brother was playing hockey overseas but then he says oh, Michael Bennett is staying there too and was his new roommate. Benny plays with TJ and is the left-winger for the team. She and Benny fight every time they are around each other, so this won't be good.
Can they get along until Rox finds a place or will they fight the whole time. Do they really hate each other that bad?
This is funny but also sweet. I love the snarky bit between Rox and Benny.
4 1/2 stars
March 1, 2022
Real cute, sometimes funny story of Roxanne DesJardins and Michael Bennett. Michael was a hockey player with Philadelphia Bulldogs along with Roxanne's brother Tristan...but "Benny" as he was known in the hockey world became tongue-tied, flummoxed and forgot any filter between his brain and mouth when he met, spoke with or ran into Roxy...she was a beauty who broke up with her last lover, and just landed a job as sales manager for the team, moving from Canada to Philly...and with her brother playing at the Worlds in Russia, will be his roomie until she finds herself a new apartment...but will a member of his family win a bet that he's in love with her which is why she leaves him so tongue-tied around Roxy, who can out-drink him any day...
March 2, 2022
Benny and Roxanne . . .
I love these enemies-to-lovers themes. There is always so many laughs to be found. Roxanne needs a job to start over, and a place to live. When she gets hired by her twin brother TJ's hockey team, the Philadelphia Bulldogs, he lets her stay at his place while he is away. Then she finds that her brother’s roommate, Benny, is someone she does not get along with.
Roxanne is feisty and ready to take him on if he gives her a hassle. Can the two of them compromise just a little to find that maybe they were wrong about the other? Grab this amusing story and see if they can find a HEA somewhere under the hostilities.
I love these enemies-to-lovers themes. There is always so many laughs to be found. Roxanne needs a job to start over, and a place to live. When she gets hired by her twin brother TJ's hockey team, the Philadelphia Bulldogs, he lets her stay at his place while he is away. Then she finds that her brother’s roommate, Benny, is someone she does not get along with.
Roxanne is feisty and ready to take him on if he gives her a hassle. Can the two of them compromise just a little to find that maybe they were wrong about the other? Grab this amusing story and see if they can find a HEA somewhere under the hostilities.
March 4, 2022
WOW. I “met” Danica through Book Club long ago and downloaded her book on KU soon after. I immediately became obsessed with this series, and all of her books, because they’re so steamy and have such wonderful characters.
This book was no exception. In fact, this book is absolutely my favorite of hers that I have read so far. It has bisexual representation, it’s a sports romance, it’s steamy, and both MCs have some intense family hurdles they’re navigating.
Thank you, Danica, for letting me read your book and for creating this story. It is perfect. I loved your first book, but they get better each time. Keep doing what you’re doing, because it’s working.
This book was no exception. In fact, this book is absolutely my favorite of hers that I have read so far. It has bisexual representation, it’s a sports romance, it’s steamy, and both MCs have some intense family hurdles they’re navigating.
Thank you, Danica, for letting me read your book and for creating this story. It is perfect. I loved your first book, but they get better each time. Keep doing what you’re doing, because it’s working.
February 25, 2022
I love a good hockey romance and this one brings up a lot of different topics that I haven’t seen. The topic of bisexuality is something I don’t often see in books, and it was done so well. The romance was great, it was nice to see a grumpy sunshine relationship where the woman is the grump. I just wish she wouldn’t have been so mean to herself the whole time, I wanted to shake her and tell her how she’s not the meanest person in the world. Michael is the best character and so understanding of what Rox is going through. I want to read the rest of this series!
February 26, 2022
A sizzling, steamy read. This is a story of Roxanne a strong, independent woman that gets a job at the Philadelphia Bulldogs and ends up meeting Benny. He is a sexy, a hockey player and the one person that Roxanne can't stand. Or can she? No matter what Benny does it is always wrong when it comes to Roxanne. I enjoyed watching their relationship evolve from enemies, to much more. A fun and entertaining read. This is the third book in this series. Looking forward to read more.
I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 28, 2022
Danika Flynn’s Against the Boards has potential as a hockey romance. The trope was proximity best friend’s little sister and an enemy to lovers’ romance. The actual writing of the book just didn’t flow. The heated scenes fell flat and were too frequent (and I love hot scenes). With more flow of scenes and words, this could be a 5-star story instead of 2 or 3 stars. If I weren’t reviewing this book, I would have deleted it after a few chapters. Other readers may disagree, but this is my honest opinion. I received an ARC copy of the book to read for my honest opinion.
March 1, 2022
4 1/2 ⭐️
This was a really good enemies to lovers/ hockey romance. I liked the storyline and the flow of the story. I loved Benny, he was just the right kind of alpha and he such a sweetheart too. I liked Roxanne at times but she just had too much anger inside her, and every single time she didn’t know how to react, she just turned to hostility in such a degree that made her somewhat off putting. And for that I’m taking away 1/2 a star from an otherwise 5 star read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a really good enemies to lovers/ hockey romance. I liked the storyline and the flow of the story. I loved Benny, he was just the right kind of alpha and he such a sweetheart too. I liked Roxanne at times but she just had too much anger inside her, and every single time she didn’t know how to react, she just turned to hostility in such a degree that made her somewhat off putting. And for that I’m taking away 1/2 a star from an otherwise 5 star read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 3, 2022
Roxanne is visiting her brother after a bad breakup, she not looking for a relationship with a man or woman. She ends up getting a job with the Bulldog and temporarily moves in with her brother, who also shares it with Benny. The two have never got along when they met years ago. They seem to fight every time they are around each other. Both try to deny that they are attracted to each which causes a lot of tension.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 7, 2022
Roxanne gets a new job and moves to town to stay at her brothers apartment while he is away, but she doesn't know if that her brother had a house mate, Benny who she happens to hate.
This is impulsive and explosive, the attraction between them is just of the charts. Drama ensues as their level of hate starts off pretty high but eventually changes. Let's just say its gets intense.
This was a great story and I really enjoyed it. Love this series and will look for more.
This was an ARC and this is my honest review.
This is impulsive and explosive, the attraction between them is just of the charts. Drama ensues as their level of hate starts off pretty high but eventually changes. Let's just say its gets intense.
This was a great story and I really enjoyed it. Love this series and will look for more.
This was an ARC and this is my honest review.
October 29, 2022
Okay, so this book was super cute and really freaking funny! Roxanne and Benny are enemies, at least in her eyes, so when she decides to crash with her twin brother TJ and realizes that he’s her roommate, she’s less than thrilled. I loved Roxanne because she is strong, confident, and beautiful, and she knows it. Benny could be silly sometimes, but that just added to his charm. The steamy scenes in this book were absolutely *chef’s kiss* and the plot was engaging and well written. All in all, I completely recommend!
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