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Tennessee Thunderbolts #4
Playboy’s Reward
It was supposed to be a favor between neighbors…
When sexy-as-sin Harper Henderson launches profanities into the night sky from the balcony below mine, I intervene. I volunteer to be her date to her ten-year high school reunion. I may be a professional hockey player with a playboy reputation, but I’m also a good guy and I make an exceptional plus-one.
Being Harper's fake date is easy. Pretending not to fall for her when our innocent kisses turn passionate is a little more challenging.
But when Harper returns the fake date favor and accompanies me to my parents’ anniversary party, everything changes. She garners my dad’s respect and eases the familial pressure I drown under. She makes me crave the things I used to laugh off.
Tangling up with Harper was supposed to be a fun way to pass the summer. So, why does it feel like she’s the real prize? The elusive, fleeting kind of real I’ve avoided for years?
And how can I prove that this playboy wants a different kind of reward? One that sounds a lot like commitment…
When sexy-as-sin Harper Henderson launches profanities into the night sky from the balcony below mine, I intervene. I volunteer to be her date to her ten-year high school reunion. I may be a professional hockey player with a playboy reputation, but I’m also a good guy and I make an exceptional plus-one.
Being Harper's fake date is easy. Pretending not to fall for her when our innocent kisses turn passionate is a little more challenging.
But when Harper returns the fake date favor and accompanies me to my parents’ anniversary party, everything changes. She garners my dad’s respect and eases the familial pressure I drown under. She makes me crave the things I used to laugh off.
Tangling up with Harper was supposed to be a fun way to pass the summer. So, why does it feel like she’s the real prize? The elusive, fleeting kind of real I’ve avoided for years?
And how can I prove that this playboy wants a different kind of reward? One that sounds a lot like commitment…
216 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 3, 2022
157 people are currently reading
480 people want to read
About the author
Gina Azzi
70 books818 followersHi! I'm Gina and I write realistic, relatable, sweet New Adult and Contemporary Romance books. A NJ native, I have lived and worked abroad before settling in Canada with my husband and Littles. Although I can't iron (at all), I am a passionate reader, frequent globetrotter, and aspiring baker (recipes appreciated!). I love hearing from fellow readers so please connect!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
October 20, 2022
"I'd rather have Harper in my life as a tempting, confusing, exciting distraction than nothing at all."
Neighbors, plus-ones, friends, lovers. This is the story of Damien and Harper. They meet after a particularly stressful day for Harper but they've been eyeing each other for quite some time. Damien agrees to be Harper's date for her ten year reunion to help her save face in front of her cheating ex and her former best friend who he cheated with. A thank you kiss starts their fake relationship and a summer fling develops as they get to know each other during the two weeks leading up to the reunion.
Blurred lines and conflicted feelings make them question how real their relationship might actually be and they begin falling for each other. I completely identified with Harper and her all or nothing attitude, going all in on relationships or not at all. But since Damien doesn't do relationships, she worries things will lead to heartbreak. Damien has his own insecurities and doesn't recognize his self worth, most likely stemming from the failed expectations of his family. Does he deserve Harper in his life or will he sabotage everything they're building together? With the fear of hurt and disappointment a possibility, will they find their way together or will they lose everything?
While I always enjoy reading about the Thunderbolts, I have somewhat mixed thoughts here. I liked seeing Harper and Damien admit they were falling in love earlier than in other fake relationships, not wasting time avoiding what they both knew to be true. But I thought Damien gave up too quickly, letting his family dynamics overly interfere with his feelings for Harper. As a professional hockey player who has worked hard for what he's accomplished, I would have liked to see him put in that same effort with Harper once he realized how he felt. I appreciated that he tried to right his wrongs but I also would have liked to see Harper take some responsibility for their struggles as well.
Building a sense of community was important to Harper as she adapted to moving back to her hometown and I loved the one she found with the Thunderbolts and the revered football team, the Coyotes. Two of the Coyotes players, Cohen, who appears earlier in the series, and Leo, Harper's longtime friend, were great characters. Although I found Damien's family to be awful people who I never really thought redeemed themselves, I did like his father and aunt Grace throughout.
This books highlights the value of trust and opening up in relationships and of giving everything you have to make them succeed. It also emphasizes the importance of having support, whether from friends or family, in working towards reaching your goals and dreams. I'm enjoying watching the development of the individual Thunderbolts players throughout this series and I'm looking forward to reading what's next.
"The future can be whatever....you want it to be but you've gotta make those choices. You have to make that future happen."
** Special thanks to author Gina Azzi for sending me this ARC to read and review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. Quotes subject to change at time of publication. Available October 27, 2022. **
Neighbors, plus-ones, friends, lovers. This is the story of Damien and Harper. They meet after a particularly stressful day for Harper but they've been eyeing each other for quite some time. Damien agrees to be Harper's date for her ten year reunion to help her save face in front of her cheating ex and her former best friend who he cheated with. A thank you kiss starts their fake relationship and a summer fling develops as they get to know each other during the two weeks leading up to the reunion.
Blurred lines and conflicted feelings make them question how real their relationship might actually be and they begin falling for each other. I completely identified with Harper and her all or nothing attitude, going all in on relationships or not at all. But since Damien doesn't do relationships, she worries things will lead to heartbreak. Damien has his own insecurities and doesn't recognize his self worth, most likely stemming from the failed expectations of his family. Does he deserve Harper in his life or will he sabotage everything they're building together? With the fear of hurt and disappointment a possibility, will they find their way together or will they lose everything?
While I always enjoy reading about the Thunderbolts, I have somewhat mixed thoughts here. I liked seeing Harper and Damien admit they were falling in love earlier than in other fake relationships, not wasting time avoiding what they both knew to be true. But I thought Damien gave up too quickly, letting his family dynamics overly interfere with his feelings for Harper. As a professional hockey player who has worked hard for what he's accomplished, I would have liked to see him put in that same effort with Harper once he realized how he felt. I appreciated that he tried to right his wrongs but I also would have liked to see Harper take some responsibility for their struggles as well.
Building a sense of community was important to Harper as she adapted to moving back to her hometown and I loved the one she found with the Thunderbolts and the revered football team, the Coyotes. Two of the Coyotes players, Cohen, who appears earlier in the series, and Leo, Harper's longtime friend, were great characters. Although I found Damien's family to be awful people who I never really thought redeemed themselves, I did like his father and aunt Grace throughout.
This books highlights the value of trust and opening up in relationships and of giving everything you have to make them succeed. It also emphasizes the importance of having support, whether from friends or family, in working towards reaching your goals and dreams. I'm enjoying watching the development of the individual Thunderbolts players throughout this series and I'm looking forward to reading what's next.
"The future can be whatever....you want it to be but you've gotta make those choices. You have to make that future happen."
** Special thanks to author Gina Azzi for sending me this ARC to read and review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. Quotes subject to change at time of publication. Available October 27, 2022. **
October 19, 2022
Here we are once again back in Tennessee and its Thunderbolts. It's time for Playboy Damien to meet his match.
I absolutely loved Damien with all his flaws. He was easy going, despite the fact he was raised in upper class, old money style. He's had a crush on his neighbor Harper, and an opportunity presented itself, he grabbed it because he wanted to get to know her.
Harper is not having a good day. She's been invited to her 10th high school anniversary and her mother RSVP in her name. While she was trying to figure out how to not attend, in comes Damien to the rescue. They hot together as friends, but it doesn't stop there. They end up spending a kot of time together, and in return they start to develop feelings, that are very hard to ignore. Despite knowing they both have grueling jobs, they decide to give a relationship a go.
And here's where it get tricky for me: when the first bumps appear, both return to their old habits , which Is to deflect their feelings. But what made me twitch a bit was the fact when everything was said and done, only he apologized like he was the only one to blame for the said bump... I can't really explain why it bugged me so much but it did so here we are.
But despite this It was still a great read and I would recommend it to anyone who's looking for an easy escape from reality.
I absolutely loved Damien with all his flaws. He was easy going, despite the fact he was raised in upper class, old money style. He's had a crush on his neighbor Harper, and an opportunity presented itself, he grabbed it because he wanted to get to know her.
Harper is not having a good day. She's been invited to her 10th high school anniversary and her mother RSVP in her name. While she was trying to figure out how to not attend, in comes Damien to the rescue. They hot together as friends, but it doesn't stop there. They end up spending a kot of time together, and in return they start to develop feelings, that are very hard to ignore. Despite knowing they both have grueling jobs, they decide to give a relationship a go.
And here's where it get tricky for me: when the first bumps appear, both return to their old habits , which Is to deflect their feelings. But what made me twitch a bit was the fact when everything was said and done, only he apologized like he was the only one to blame for the said bump... I can't really explain why it bugged me so much but it did so here we are.
But despite this It was still a great read and I would recommend it to anyone who's looking for an easy escape from reality.
October 26, 2022
5 Star Review of Playboy’s Reward (Tennessee Thunderbolts #4) by Gina Azzi
This is Damien and Harper’s story and it was an entertaining story that had me hooked from the first chapter to the last. It was well written with characters whose story you cannot help but become invested in.
Although not a particularly long book Ms. Azzi managed to pack a lot into it. I really liked Damien, such a swoon worthy, passionate man who ticked all the boxes for me. Overhearing Harper shouting out her frustrations, Damien volunteers to be her date at her ten year high school reunion and she in turn offers to return the favor.
I loved the journey that these two embarked on. It was heart warming to see them progress from friends to lovers. What happens when fake dating suddenly has real feelings coming into play? Could Damien and Harper have a real chance at finding love and happiness?
The camaraderie among the members of the Tennessee Thunderbolts adds an additional layer to the story. There were equal amounts of heat, emotion, romance and witty banter in this boo and Player’s Reward was a wonderful addition to what has quickly become one of my favourite series.
This is Damien and Harper’s story and it was an entertaining story that had me hooked from the first chapter to the last. It was well written with characters whose story you cannot help but become invested in.
Although not a particularly long book Ms. Azzi managed to pack a lot into it. I really liked Damien, such a swoon worthy, passionate man who ticked all the boxes for me. Overhearing Harper shouting out her frustrations, Damien volunteers to be her date at her ten year high school reunion and she in turn offers to return the favor.
I loved the journey that these two embarked on. It was heart warming to see them progress from friends to lovers. What happens when fake dating suddenly has real feelings coming into play? Could Damien and Harper have a real chance at finding love and happiness?
The camaraderie among the members of the Tennessee Thunderbolts adds an additional layer to the story. There were equal amounts of heat, emotion, romance and witty banter in this boo and Player’s Reward was a wonderful addition to what has quickly become one of my favourite series.
October 27, 2022
Oh my shining stars!! The hug that my heart got from Harper and Damien will keep me warm for quite some time to come. Damien sounds like the handsome troublemaker with a forgivable grin and Harper is the beautiful girl next door. I got wrapped up in their story and felt drawn into their friend circle. Hockey and football don't always mix together but in this instance they most certainly do.
Harper is out on her balcony, yelling obscenities to the sky, when her upstairs neighbour invites her up for a drink. When she explains the reason for her late night scream-fest, Damien commiserates with her about needing to have a date for large events. There are certain expectations placed on you by your family and friends. Damien suggests that he accompany Harper to her ten year school reunion where her ex-boyfriend and her ex-best friend will be. After they have such a great time at the reunion, Harper attends Damien's parents' thirty-fifth anniversary where she learns of his family's wealth and social expectations of his date. What occurs between them leading up to and after each social event is what leads to a growing relationship that neither is certain how to navigate. For two people who are unsure about forming a couple, they sure do make a cute pairing. All lovey-dovey until they suddenly find that their schedules aren't cooperating with their plans and doubts about whether or not they can last start coming into play. Damien has to think of his future, after hockey, and the thoughts aren't pretty. Pulling back creates a chasm that could spell the end of them.
Harper and Damien share woes that make them real. They could walk off the pages of the book and in your door. You'd want them for your friends, to share your everyday wins and losses. I would gladly go live in this book world, laughing with all the amazing people on the pages of this book. Another goal accomplished for this amazing Canadian author!
Harper is out on her balcony, yelling obscenities to the sky, when her upstairs neighbour invites her up for a drink. When she explains the reason for her late night scream-fest, Damien commiserates with her about needing to have a date for large events. There are certain expectations placed on you by your family and friends. Damien suggests that he accompany Harper to her ten year school reunion where her ex-boyfriend and her ex-best friend will be. After they have such a great time at the reunion, Harper attends Damien's parents' thirty-fifth anniversary where she learns of his family's wealth and social expectations of his date. What occurs between them leading up to and after each social event is what leads to a growing relationship that neither is certain how to navigate. For two people who are unsure about forming a couple, they sure do make a cute pairing. All lovey-dovey until they suddenly find that their schedules aren't cooperating with their plans and doubts about whether or not they can last start coming into play. Damien has to think of his future, after hockey, and the thoughts aren't pretty. Pulling back creates a chasm that could spell the end of them.
Harper and Damien share woes that make them real. They could walk off the pages of the book and in your door. You'd want them for your friends, to share your everyday wins and losses. I would gladly go live in this book world, laughing with all the amazing people on the pages of this book. Another goal accomplished for this amazing Canadian author!
October 27, 2022
Playboy's Reward starts out with Harper having a bad day, and Damien couldn't help but overhear some things which allowed him an in with the neighbor he's been crushing on. He will go to the high school reunion (that she doesn't want to go to but her mother got involved) as her plus one, and then she ends up going with him to his parent's anniversary party. He's from a wealthy family, but he doesn't act like it & his parents never hide their disappointment so having Harper with him helped. They're supposed to be fake dating, but you already know it's only a matter of time before the fake moves into real territory, especially with the sparks flying like they are. I absolutely loved experiencing their journey alongside them with all the entertaining banter, heat with a kicker of sweet, emotion, and the supporting cast of his hockey team. So yeah, everyone should experience all this goodness for themselves since I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
October 20, 2022
This was definitely a HOT story about 2 neighbors who reach a mutual agreement after doing a favor for each other. But when things start to heat up, will anything happen or will their chemistry fizzle out cold? Love the interconnecting characters and family dynamics.
October 27, 2022
This book had all the feels.
This is the 4th book in the Tennessee Thunderbolts series and each story is different and new. While the general idea is fake dating this book does it in a way I have never read before. I was definitely not disappointed.
A definite must read!
This is the 4th book in the Tennessee Thunderbolts series and each story is different and new. While the general idea is fake dating this book does it in a way I have never read before. I was definitely not disappointed.
A definite must read!
October 27, 2022
When Harper’s mother told her that she RSVP’d for her to attend her 10yr high school reunion with a plus one she let loose on her balcony. Her sexy upstairs neighbor can’t help but overhear and offers his help.
Damien doesn’t do relationships, he does hookups and he doesn’t plan on changing. He offers to be her plus one so she can save face.
Damien and Harper have some pretty high walls resurrected around their hearts but for different reasons.
This was a sweet friends to lovers romance. I loved Harper and Damien’s chemistry they were perfect for each other.
Damien doesn’t do relationships, he does hookups and he doesn’t plan on changing. He offers to be her plus one so she can save face.
Damien and Harper have some pretty high walls resurrected around their hearts but for different reasons.
This was a sweet friends to lovers romance. I loved Harper and Damien’s chemistry they were perfect for each other.
November 1, 2022
Playboy’s reward
Damien is the playboy in this story who never got close with anyone and has tried his best to separate himself from his family and their drama.
Harper is a strong willed independent woman who is making her own path and taking on her future with passion.
These two are also neighbors and this is where the story begins.
Harper needs a date to her high school class reunion and Damien is more than happy to be her plus one.
Damien has his parents anniversary party coming up and asks Harper to be his ( friend-girl) and be his plus one.
Trying their hardest not to catch feelings, you guessed it, they do but it’s a fun ride with these two.
Damien and Harper are adorable and this is another fun story from Gina Azzi and I can’t wait to read the next story in this fun series!
Damien is the playboy in this story who never got close with anyone and has tried his best to separate himself from his family and their drama.
Harper is a strong willed independent woman who is making her own path and taking on her future with passion.
These two are also neighbors and this is where the story begins.
Harper needs a date to her high school class reunion and Damien is more than happy to be her plus one.
Damien has his parents anniversary party coming up and asks Harper to be his ( friend-girl) and be his plus one.
Trying their hardest not to catch feelings, you guessed it, they do but it’s a fun ride with these two.
Damien and Harper are adorable and this is another fun story from Gina Azzi and I can’t wait to read the next story in this fun series!
December 25, 2024
Pretty meh compared to the rest of the series
October 29, 2022
Readers find themselves welcomed back into the sports world with open arms in this (at times) charming and (sometimes) frustrating tale of two neighbors whose fake romance slowly becomes something more. When these two neighbors decide to help each other out by being the plus-one to each other's social events, they end up feeling much more for each other but must work past self-doubts and familial expectations if they have any chance for a HEA. From the first page to the last readers will find themselves fully invested in this couple's journey, rooting for them to stop letting outside voices hurt their burgeoning romance, while delighting in their sweet and sexy interactions.
Damien Barnes has shown himself to be the playboy of the team, both on the ice as a hockey player and off the ice as a real hottie with a quick smile and an easygoing nature. His family life though is something that greatly affects him and has held him back from fully committing to another person. Meeting Harper, and spending time with her, has him wanting to put his heart on the line and into her hands for safe keeping though. With him starting to let his guard down with her things soon turn serious...and emotional speed bumps soon arise. Damien's family caused a lot of frustrations for me and dimmed my enjoyment of this story whenever their toxic selves showed up. They fueled doubts in him, had him questioning his feelings for Harper, and caused unnecessary angst and melodrama late in the story before he finally groveled his way to HEA.
Harper recently returned to her hometown, the place where her best friend (now, former) hooked up with her boyfriend (now, her ex). She works for the Coyotes, the local football team (and another series from this author), and lives next door to a super sexy hockey player whose friendship soon turns more romantic. Harper's a strong-willed heroine, someone focused on her future/her career, and is all in with Damien once things turn romantic. I admired her making a new life for herself after so many betrayals and was rooting for her through all the good moments between her and Damian as well as their low point late in the story.
On a whole this was a satisfying tale with a likable main couple who were endearing as friends and sizzling as lovers. I enjoyed seeing their friendship build but was frustrated by the speed bump they experienced late in the story that jarred me from my happy place. Despite that I still found much to enjoy about the burgeoning connection between Damien and Harper, just as I enjoyed the friendships they cultivated between other hockey players as well as Damien's football teammates. The banter amongst these individuals was surprisingly heartfelt and playful and added a unique layer to both of these sports series. Fans of the themes of fake relationships and friends to lovers, along with lovers of sports romances, will find this a delightful addition to the Tennessee Thunderbolts series and it will give them something to reread while waiting for the next book by Ms. Azzi to be released.
Damien Barnes has shown himself to be the playboy of the team, both on the ice as a hockey player and off the ice as a real hottie with a quick smile and an easygoing nature. His family life though is something that greatly affects him and has held him back from fully committing to another person. Meeting Harper, and spending time with her, has him wanting to put his heart on the line and into her hands for safe keeping though. With him starting to let his guard down with her things soon turn serious...and emotional speed bumps soon arise. Damien's family caused a lot of frustrations for me and dimmed my enjoyment of this story whenever their toxic selves showed up. They fueled doubts in him, had him questioning his feelings for Harper, and caused unnecessary angst and melodrama late in the story before he finally groveled his way to HEA.
Harper recently returned to her hometown, the place where her best friend (now, former) hooked up with her boyfriend (now, her ex). She works for the Coyotes, the local football team (and another series from this author), and lives next door to a super sexy hockey player whose friendship soon turns more romantic. Harper's a strong-willed heroine, someone focused on her future/her career, and is all in with Damien once things turn romantic. I admired her making a new life for herself after so many betrayals and was rooting for her through all the good moments between her and Damian as well as their low point late in the story.
On a whole this was a satisfying tale with a likable main couple who were endearing as friends and sizzling as lovers. I enjoyed seeing their friendship build but was frustrated by the speed bump they experienced late in the story that jarred me from my happy place. Despite that I still found much to enjoy about the burgeoning connection between Damien and Harper, just as I enjoyed the friendships they cultivated between other hockey players as well as Damien's football teammates. The banter amongst these individuals was surprisingly heartfelt and playful and added a unique layer to both of these sports series. Fans of the themes of fake relationships and friends to lovers, along with lovers of sports romances, will find this a delightful addition to the Tennessee Thunderbolts series and it will give them something to reread while waiting for the next book by Ms. Azzi to be released.
October 29, 2022
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
SPICE: 🔥🔥🔥
I always enjoy a visit to Gina Azzi's fictional world with the Thunderbolts, and this time around was fantastic.
Damien Barnes and Harper Henderson did not know each other until one fateful night when Harper was cursing her circumstances about having to go to her high school reunion. She was especially not looking forward to seeing her ex-boyfriend and ex-best friend.
Damien has been eyeing his beautiful neighbor for a while, but when he is trying to tamp down his playboy ways, a fling with someone who lives in the same building did not seem like a good idea. When the opportunity comes up for a no-strings pretend relationship, he jumps on the chance to volunteer to be Harper's high school reunion date.
As they get to know each other, they find that their connection is more than just platonic. Feelings are starting to develop, and the line between real and pretend starts to blur.
I love the pacing of this read. We hit the ground running by quickly establishing the fake relationship. I enjoy the easiness of their connection, making their journey to lovers an easy transition. I also really liked Damien's growth since the beginning of the series.
The key to this read is unraveling the layers of their individual stories and of their connection as a couple. Gina Azzi provided so much depth to these characters, especially Damien, that by the end, I felt like they were old friends.
One of my favorite elements of Azzi's series is the ensemble cast. This reads as a standalone, but it is so fun to see characters from previous reads. I enjoy that the world is expanding with the football team and its charismatic players. I cannot wait to see if that becomes its own series.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Gina Azzi and Wildfire Marketing Solutions for providing an ARC. **
SPICE: 🔥🔥🔥
I always enjoy a visit to Gina Azzi's fictional world with the Thunderbolts, and this time around was fantastic.
Damien Barnes and Harper Henderson did not know each other until one fateful night when Harper was cursing her circumstances about having to go to her high school reunion. She was especially not looking forward to seeing her ex-boyfriend and ex-best friend.
Damien has been eyeing his beautiful neighbor for a while, but when he is trying to tamp down his playboy ways, a fling with someone who lives in the same building did not seem like a good idea. When the opportunity comes up for a no-strings pretend relationship, he jumps on the chance to volunteer to be Harper's high school reunion date.
As they get to know each other, they find that their connection is more than just platonic. Feelings are starting to develop, and the line between real and pretend starts to blur.
I love the pacing of this read. We hit the ground running by quickly establishing the fake relationship. I enjoy the easiness of their connection, making their journey to lovers an easy transition. I also really liked Damien's growth since the beginning of the series.
The key to this read is unraveling the layers of their individual stories and of their connection as a couple. Gina Azzi provided so much depth to these characters, especially Damien, that by the end, I felt like they were old friends.
One of my favorite elements of Azzi's series is the ensemble cast. This reads as a standalone, but it is so fun to see characters from previous reads. I enjoy that the world is expanding with the football team and its charismatic players. I cannot wait to see if that becomes its own series.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Gina Azzi and Wildfire Marketing Solutions for providing an ARC. **
October 28, 2022
Playboy's Reward is the fourth book in Gina Azzi's Tennessee Thunderbolts series and is Damien and Harper's story.
Playboy's Reward is a neighbours to lovers, fake relationship, sports romance.
Harper is going through a rough time, she's just found out her Mom has RSVP'd to her high school reunion without her knowing which means she'll come face to face with her cheating ex and her best friend who he cheated on her with for the first time since it all happened. Taking to her balcony to shout all her frustrations out the last thing she was expecting was her hot neighbour from upstairs to also be out on his balcony and hear every word!
After finding out the reason why Harper is so distressed, Damien offers to go to her high school reunion as her date! Spending time together, getting to know each other to make their fake relationship look convincing, the sparks are flying and lines are beginning to blur. And when Damien takes Harper home for his parent's anniversary party it becomes clear that their fake relationship hasn't been fake for a while now and feelings are getting involved.
"can she be more than a summer fling? More than a flirty neighbour? More than anything I've ever had before?
But what does all this mean, especially with the cutthroat world Damien comes from and his feelings of inadequacy and never being good enough for Harper and his fears that the world he comes from will end up snuffing out Harper's light? Can Damien and Harper find a way through everything that stands in their way and create something incredible?
Read Playboy's Reward now to find out!
I really enjoyed Playboy's Reward, this is my first book by Gina Azzi and it definitely won't be my last! Even though this is the fourth book in the series it didn't stop me from enjoying and loving these characters, it's made me want to go and read the previous books and everything else Gina has written!
I received an arc of Playboy's Reward and I am voluntarily leaving my review.
Playboy's Reward is a neighbours to lovers, fake relationship, sports romance.
Harper is going through a rough time, she's just found out her Mom has RSVP'd to her high school reunion without her knowing which means she'll come face to face with her cheating ex and her best friend who he cheated on her with for the first time since it all happened. Taking to her balcony to shout all her frustrations out the last thing she was expecting was her hot neighbour from upstairs to also be out on his balcony and hear every word!
After finding out the reason why Harper is so distressed, Damien offers to go to her high school reunion as her date! Spending time together, getting to know each other to make their fake relationship look convincing, the sparks are flying and lines are beginning to blur. And when Damien takes Harper home for his parent's anniversary party it becomes clear that their fake relationship hasn't been fake for a while now and feelings are getting involved.
"can she be more than a summer fling? More than a flirty neighbour? More than anything I've ever had before?
But what does all this mean, especially with the cutthroat world Damien comes from and his feelings of inadequacy and never being good enough for Harper and his fears that the world he comes from will end up snuffing out Harper's light? Can Damien and Harper find a way through everything that stands in their way and create something incredible?
Read Playboy's Reward now to find out!
I really enjoyed Playboy's Reward, this is my first book by Gina Azzi and it definitely won't be my last! Even though this is the fourth book in the series it didn't stop me from enjoying and loving these characters, it's made me want to go and read the previous books and everything else Gina has written!
I received an arc of Playboy's Reward and I am voluntarily leaving my review.
October 26, 2022
Playboy's Reward is the 4th book in the Tennessee Thunderbolts series by Gina Azzi. This book holds pretty decently as a complete stand alone in the series but is even better if you have read the other TB books as many of the previous characters are mixed in throughout the story.
4.5 ⭐
Damien and Harper's story is such a great read- their book is packed with so much humor and sweetness, heat and some dashes of drama while still pretty low on angst.
I honestly couldn't remember Damien all that much from the other TB books since it's been a little while but I found him to be a pretty interesting character. Damien Barnes is a bit of a playboy with his casual relationships but he also always keeps his guard up not just because he is a professional hockey player but because he comes from a pretty affluent yet dysfunctional family. Harper on the other hand didn't really do casual but at the same time had difficulties with relationships after discovering that her high school/college boyfriend was hooking up with her best friend behind her back. Those damaged relationships and her upcoming 10 year reunion were the catalyst for Damien and Harper to finally talk to one another despite being neighbors for the last year.
I loved the easy friendship that Damien and Harper created. They just meshed so well together. Throw in the attraction and chemistry they had on top of that and I was in love for them! Harper and Damien kind of straddled this line of being casual hook ups and something a little more all while forming a kind of best friend relationship. Damien's lack of real relationships made his falling all the more endearing and entertaining, he was so sweet so I hated when his family planted all the doubts and expectations on him because of their own issues. Harper had her hang ups on relationships and trusting in them but I love how she slowly regained her self confidence, started building her village and blossomed in her time with Damien.
I still wanted more to Damien and Harper but hopefully I will still get a little more of them when the next Tennessee Thunderbolts player finds his HEA.
4.5 ⭐
Damien and Harper's story is such a great read- their book is packed with so much humor and sweetness, heat and some dashes of drama while still pretty low on angst.
I honestly couldn't remember Damien all that much from the other TB books since it's been a little while but I found him to be a pretty interesting character. Damien Barnes is a bit of a playboy with his casual relationships but he also always keeps his guard up not just because he is a professional hockey player but because he comes from a pretty affluent yet dysfunctional family. Harper on the other hand didn't really do casual but at the same time had difficulties with relationships after discovering that her high school/college boyfriend was hooking up with her best friend behind her back. Those damaged relationships and her upcoming 10 year reunion were the catalyst for Damien and Harper to finally talk to one another despite being neighbors for the last year.
I loved the easy friendship that Damien and Harper created. They just meshed so well together. Throw in the attraction and chemistry they had on top of that and I was in love for them! Harper and Damien kind of straddled this line of being casual hook ups and something a little more all while forming a kind of best friend relationship. Damien's lack of real relationships made his falling all the more endearing and entertaining, he was so sweet so I hated when his family planted all the doubts and expectations on him because of their own issues. Harper had her hang ups on relationships and trusting in them but I love how she slowly regained her self confidence, started building her village and blossomed in her time with Damien.
I still wanted more to Damien and Harper but hopefully I will still get a little more of them when the next Tennessee Thunderbolts player finds his HEA.
October 26, 2022
Title: Playboy’s Reward (Tennessee Thunderbolts Series)
Author: Gina Azzi
Hero/Heroine: Damien & Harper
Tropes: Friends to Lovers/Fake Relationship/Sports Romance
TW/CW: Mentions of alcohol/substance abuse, toxic parental relationship
THE GOOD 😀
Another day another newly discovered author to add to the list. This book is part of the Tennessee Thunderbolts series which I didn’t realise when I signed up for it, however it didn’t affect my enjoyment of the book at all, and I’m looking forward to reading the supporting characters stories.
Harper, our wonderful heroine, is not having the best time of it. Finally back in her hometown after years away, she’s tired, lonely and worst of all has to attend her high school reunion where she’ll be faced with her cheating ex and the best friend he cheated on her with. That would be one social occasion I’d be avoiding like the plague. Enter Damien. NHL player. Hot. Funny. Hot. Charming… oh and did I say hot? He lives in the penthouse in Harper’s building, and after witnessing her expletive filled breakdown on her balcony, makes her an offer she can’t refuse.
I think the one thing that cemented these two as a great couple for me was the strong friendship that they’d formed first. They had real honest to god chemistry, so when they eventually caved to their feelings, it seemed completely natural.
With just the right amount of angst and drama, Playboy’s Reward was a fabulous story filled with humour, heat and a very sweet grovelling scene (we all love a good grovel scene, am I right?).
THE BAD ☹️
Sean. He’s the human equivalent of period pain that just won’t go away no matter how many paracetamol you take.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
OVERALL SCENE: Highly enjoyable friends to lovers story with a dash of sports thrown in
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥🔥
STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Gina Azzi
Hero/Heroine: Damien & Harper
Tropes: Friends to Lovers/Fake Relationship/Sports Romance
TW/CW: Mentions of alcohol/substance abuse, toxic parental relationship
THE GOOD 😀
Another day another newly discovered author to add to the list. This book is part of the Tennessee Thunderbolts series which I didn’t realise when I signed up for it, however it didn’t affect my enjoyment of the book at all, and I’m looking forward to reading the supporting characters stories.
Harper, our wonderful heroine, is not having the best time of it. Finally back in her hometown after years away, she’s tired, lonely and worst of all has to attend her high school reunion where she’ll be faced with her cheating ex and the best friend he cheated on her with. That would be one social occasion I’d be avoiding like the plague. Enter Damien. NHL player. Hot. Funny. Hot. Charming… oh and did I say hot? He lives in the penthouse in Harper’s building, and after witnessing her expletive filled breakdown on her balcony, makes her an offer she can’t refuse.
I think the one thing that cemented these two as a great couple for me was the strong friendship that they’d formed first. They had real honest to god chemistry, so when they eventually caved to their feelings, it seemed completely natural.
With just the right amount of angst and drama, Playboy’s Reward was a fabulous story filled with humour, heat and a very sweet grovelling scene (we all love a good grovel scene, am I right?).
THE BAD ☹️
Sean. He’s the human equivalent of period pain that just won’t go away no matter how many paracetamol you take.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
OVERALL SCENE: Highly enjoyable friends to lovers story with a dash of sports thrown in
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥🔥
STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 26, 2022
4 ⭐️ love the fake relationship mixed with reunion.
The next installment in the Tennessee Thundebolts series once again has someone from the Coyote’s football franchise, Harper, involved with a hockey player, Damien. I like the trope of the fake relationship, it always backfires on the couple and I enjoy seeing how they get out of it. This story is no different. With the backdrop of a ten year high school reunion, bff cheating with her fiancé reunion. How Harper comes through this with dignity and being the better person. This is the best part of the story.
Damien is that likeable guy, that is always willing to help out, not like how his family and upbringing portrays. His fake relationship with Harper wasn’t his first, and he seems to take pride in doing this well, keeping others at a distance. The fake relationship soon becomes real with feelings expressed earlier than expected .
What bothered me with this storyline was Damien’s relationship with his family and how he let it control his relationships. He is a very successful hockey player, and how much he had to work to get there, I would have thought gave him more self confidence than he expressed in this story. Then he quickly gives up on Harper when there is the slightest hint of a rough patch with his family, not giving her the chance to stand up for their relationship. I struggled to reconcile his character as initially portrayed and how the story played out. I was disappointed in him. Lastly, it seemed his family redeemed themselves too quickly at the end of the story, in four quick months. This seemed rushed.
Overall, I liked this trope and really enjoy Gina Azzi’s stories and look forward to the next installment in this series.
The next installment in the Tennessee Thundebolts series once again has someone from the Coyote’s football franchise, Harper, involved with a hockey player, Damien. I like the trope of the fake relationship, it always backfires on the couple and I enjoy seeing how they get out of it. This story is no different. With the backdrop of a ten year high school reunion, bff cheating with her fiancé reunion. How Harper comes through this with dignity and being the better person. This is the best part of the story.
Damien is that likeable guy, that is always willing to help out, not like how his family and upbringing portrays. His fake relationship with Harper wasn’t his first, and he seems to take pride in doing this well, keeping others at a distance. The fake relationship soon becomes real with feelings expressed earlier than expected .
What bothered me with this storyline was Damien’s relationship with his family and how he let it control his relationships. He is a very successful hockey player, and how much he had to work to get there, I would have thought gave him more self confidence than he expressed in this story. Then he quickly gives up on Harper when there is the slightest hint of a rough patch with his family, not giving her the chance to stand up for their relationship. I struggled to reconcile his character as initially portrayed and how the story played out. I was disappointed in him. Lastly, it seemed his family redeemed themselves too quickly at the end of the story, in four quick months. This seemed rushed.
Overall, I liked this trope and really enjoy Gina Azzi’s stories and look forward to the next installment in this series.
October 27, 2022
Family drama and failed relationships are the backdrop of this fake relationship/hockey romance. It is Damien and Harper's story. Damien is the sexy neighbor who lives right above Harper's apartment. She's noticed him but has never made a move. Damien has noticed his sexy neighbor downstairs as well but doesn't make a move until he hears her on her balcony below letting out a string of expletives after an apparently hard day. This begins their friendship/fake relationship after he offers to be her plus one at her high school reunion. There's an attraction between the two and what started out as a fake relationship/favor of sparks a summer romance. Neither one was looking for a relationship but this feels exciting and promising. Will it be enough to survive the summer and when their demanding jobs resume, insecurities set in, past hurts creep up, and family drama interferes, can they keep their relationship going?
Overall, this is solid 3.75 stars. It is a good book with equally good characters. The supporting characters are just as wonderful as the main ones. It is a quick read that I enjoyed. What I liked was the easiness of Damien and Harper's relationship when it begins. There is lots of steam and sweet times. They transition seamlessly into their relationship. What I didn't like was at the first sign of trouble Damien bailed. He was willing to let her go so easily. I realize that he had his insecurities and reasons but it didn't sit well. Also, Harper forgave him too soon and too willingly. He needed to work harder before she gave in, in my opinion. Still, this is a good read and I look forward to reading about the other characters in the Tennessee Thunderbolt Series.
Overall, this is solid 3.75 stars. It is a good book with equally good characters. The supporting characters are just as wonderful as the main ones. It is a quick read that I enjoyed. What I liked was the easiness of Damien and Harper's relationship when it begins. There is lots of steam and sweet times. They transition seamlessly into their relationship. What I didn't like was at the first sign of trouble Damien bailed. He was willing to let her go so easily. I realize that he had his insecurities and reasons but it didn't sit well. Also, Harper forgave him too soon and too willingly. He needed to work harder before she gave in, in my opinion. Still, this is a good read and I look forward to reading about the other characters in the Tennessee Thunderbolt Series.
October 28, 2022
Sweet and cheeky, Playboy’s Reward is the sort of lighthearted and fun sports romance that I’ve come to expect from this series. The book starts with Harper’s mother RSVPing for her to her 10-year reunion, which is definitely not something she wants to have to do. Not only that but her mom also said she was bringing a date. The problem? Her ex-boyfriend that cheated on her with her former friend will both also be there. Luckily for her, her neighbor, hockey hottie Damien Barnes, overhears Harper having a moment while nearly a bottle of wine in, and they strike up a fast friendship that results in him offering to be her plus one. There’s an evident mutual attraction, but will they become more or stay just friends?
Damien and Harper are both such loveable characters, and I rooted for them throughout the book. I adore how their relationship was built on friendship, and it made for a deeper connection between them, even though things weren’t always so easy. Damien is this flirty, charming professional hockey player, but he’s met his match in the formidable Harper, who’s lovely but strong and her own person. Together, they’re completely adorable.
Also, I enjoyed the level of drama in their story. There’s conflict but nothing too crazy that might come off as unbelievable, which made me feel more invested in Damien and Harper’s relationship. Add in a smattering of the other characters that we’ve gotten to know in the previous books in this series who help to further this story along, and we get this perfectly balanced love story that I didn’t want to put down.
Damien and Harper’s story is a bit angsty, a bit steamy, and a whole lot banter filled. I’ve been loving this series, and I thoroughly enjoyed their book and can’t wait for more from the Thunderbolts.
Damien and Harper are both such loveable characters, and I rooted for them throughout the book. I adore how their relationship was built on friendship, and it made for a deeper connection between them, even though things weren’t always so easy. Damien is this flirty, charming professional hockey player, but he’s met his match in the formidable Harper, who’s lovely but strong and her own person. Together, they’re completely adorable.
Also, I enjoyed the level of drama in their story. There’s conflict but nothing too crazy that might come off as unbelievable, which made me feel more invested in Damien and Harper’s relationship. Add in a smattering of the other characters that we’ve gotten to know in the previous books in this series who help to further this story along, and we get this perfectly balanced love story that I didn’t want to put down.
Damien and Harper’s story is a bit angsty, a bit steamy, and a whole lot banter filled. I’ve been loving this series, and I thoroughly enjoyed their book and can’t wait for more from the Thunderbolts.
October 24, 2022
Ms. Azzi always delivers a fantastic story that is funny, sweet and a joy to read. Playboy"s Rewards is just that book. When you have been eyeing your upstairs neighbour for a few months but have never had the chance to meet him until you shout profanity off your balcony. Harper has had a terrible day and her mother just made it worse by telling her she RSVP for her to her ten-year high school reunion that Harper never wanted to go to. Why? Well when your best friend ends up going after your boyfriend, who you have had all through high school and into college, while you are away for a semester, you really do not want to see them. Little did Harper know that her upstairs neighbour, Damien, was on his balcony at the same time. His invite upstairs for a drink was just what she needed. This led her to tell him about the reunion and being the gentleman that Damien is he offered to go with her as her fake boyfriend. Why? Well, little did Harper know he has being intrigued by her and wanted to meet her. One thing led to another and this fake relationship got more complicated. Their connection was instant and the chemistry between them was amazing. Not doing relationships, not being able to give the other person what they deserve and knowing that things are headed for doom are the reasons that walls are put up. Can they get past the walls to the heart? Will two people who have such a connection be able to overcome what life has thrown at them?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the writing style of Ms. Lawson. I recommend adding this book to your TBR list.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the writing style of Ms. Lawson. I recommend adding this book to your TBR list.
October 25, 2022
I totally loved this book and story. It is everything I expected Damien Barnes to get and so much more. He met his match when he began a conversation with his sexy neighbor Harper Henderson. From the second these two meet. It was fireworks, with friendship and fun thrown in.
Damien and Harper are from different worlds but together they are perfect. Outside influences, family, and Damien's fears, that his family will ruin his relationships are the problem. And this book is about the fight for him to see that he and Harper are the most important things in the relationship. The ins and outs of the book are needed to be read firsthand. So I won't say anymore.
I smiled loads and let a tear or two slip but that's what makes for a truly beautiful love story. This book is a huge recommendation for me. Gina Azzi has become an immediate one-click author for me.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
For more reviews, news and giveaways, check out Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner at;
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Damien and Harper are from different worlds but together they are perfect. Outside influences, family, and Damien's fears, that his family will ruin his relationships are the problem. And this book is about the fight for him to see that he and Harper are the most important things in the relationship. The ins and outs of the book are needed to be read firsthand. So I won't say anymore.
I smiled loads and let a tear or two slip but that's what makes for a truly beautiful love story. This book is a huge recommendation for me. Gina Azzi has become an immediate one-click author for me.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
For more reviews, news and giveaways, check out Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner at;
Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest |
Read
November 15, 2022Playboy's Reward is the fourth book in Gina Azzi's Tennessee Thunderbolts series. With each book featuring a different couple... This can be read as a standalone. In the Playboy's Reward, we meet and follow neighbors, Damien and Harper.
𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙤/𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙚 = Damien Barnes and Harper Henderson
𝘾𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧 = No
𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚 = Yes. This is the 4th book in the Tennessee thunderbolts series)
𝙏𝙧𝙤p𝙚(𝙨) = Sports romance ♥ Neighbors (upstairs/downstairs) ♥ Fake Dating ♥ Neighbors to Friends to Lovers ♥ Playboy H ♥ Dual POVs
𝙏𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙧(𝙨): Language ♥ Sexual Content ♥ Acohol/substance abuse ♥ Family drama
𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙇𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡 = 🔥🔥🔥
𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙧 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 = ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Harper = Creative Marketing Director for the Knoxville Coyotes. Caught ex cheating w/ her best friend. Mom rsvp'd for her to attend reunion (which the ex & former friend will be at) with a plus 1. Now in a predicament.
Damien = the hot, charming NHL Left Winger for the Thunderbolts. Playboy. Works hard, plays hard. Lets his family control some of his life. Lives upstairs/above Harper.
When Harper is out on her balcony letting out her frustations to no one but the sky... Damien overhears and peaks over to check on her and invites her up for a drink. After finding out why Harper is stressed, Damien offers to go with her as her date. With their connection and their growing chemistry they pair up again to head to his parents. Like any Fake Relationship trope, the line between fake & real starts to blur. Real feelings develope.
𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙤/𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙚 = Damien Barnes and Harper Henderson
𝘾𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧 = No
𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚 = Yes. This is the 4th book in the Tennessee thunderbolts series)
𝙏𝙧𝙤p𝙚(𝙨) = Sports romance ♥ Neighbors (upstairs/downstairs) ♥ Fake Dating ♥ Neighbors to Friends to Lovers ♥ Playboy H ♥ Dual POVs
𝙏𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙧(𝙨): Language ♥ Sexual Content ♥ Acohol/substance abuse ♥ Family drama
𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙇𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡 = 🔥🔥🔥
𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙧 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 = ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Harper = Creative Marketing Director for the Knoxville Coyotes. Caught ex cheating w/ her best friend. Mom rsvp'd for her to attend reunion (which the ex & former friend will be at) with a plus 1. Now in a predicament.
Damien = the hot, charming NHL Left Winger for the Thunderbolts. Playboy. Works hard, plays hard. Lets his family control some of his life. Lives upstairs/above Harper.
When Harper is out on her balcony letting out her frustations to no one but the sky... Damien overhears and peaks over to check on her and invites her up for a drink. After finding out why Harper is stressed, Damien offers to go with her as her date. With their connection and their growing chemistry they pair up again to head to his parents. Like any Fake Relationship trope, the line between fake & real starts to blur. Real feelings develope.
November 3, 2022
Another great Tennessee Thunderbolts book!
I honestly love this series! Every couple becomes my new favorites! This one was absolutely perfect. Harper works for the NFL team in marketing and has moved back to Knoxville after being gone for years after her boyfriend since high school cheated on her with her best friend. Now that she's back, her mother RSVP’s her to her 10 year high school reunion where both will be in attendance. She needs a date – stat! Thankfully, the super hot professional hockey player that lives upstairs from her is game to be her pretend boyfriend for the night. They get along so well that they start having feelings for each other. Damien comes from money… like money, money in Connecticut. When his parents have their big anniversary party, Damien is told to bring Harper along which he doesn’t want to do since he doesn’t want her to have to deal with all the drama that his family is.
It does all go badly… in a way. But its not until they are back to their working days – summer long gone, that Damien realizes that he doesn’t think it will work out between the two of them since they never see each other. Thankfully he comes to his senses quickly enough… but will Harper take him back after what he did? Read the book and find out!!!
I received an ARC for my honest review!
I honestly love this series! Every couple becomes my new favorites! This one was absolutely perfect. Harper works for the NFL team in marketing and has moved back to Knoxville after being gone for years after her boyfriend since high school cheated on her with her best friend. Now that she's back, her mother RSVP’s her to her 10 year high school reunion where both will be in attendance. She needs a date – stat! Thankfully, the super hot professional hockey player that lives upstairs from her is game to be her pretend boyfriend for the night. They get along so well that they start having feelings for each other. Damien comes from money… like money, money in Connecticut. When his parents have their big anniversary party, Damien is told to bring Harper along which he doesn’t want to do since he doesn’t want her to have to deal with all the drama that his family is.
It does all go badly… in a way. But its not until they are back to their working days – summer long gone, that Damien realizes that he doesn’t think it will work out between the two of them since they never see each other. Thankfully he comes to his senses quickly enough… but will Harper take him back after what he did? Read the book and find out!!!
I received an ARC for my honest review!
October 20, 2022
“Playboy’s Reward” a fun, flirty and sweet strangers to lovers romance that had me smiling the whole time I was reading it. Harper and Damien are such a fun couple and my new favorite in the Thunderbolts world.
Harper has her high school reunion coming up and she doesn’t want to go. But when her mom RSVPs for her, she has no choice but to attend. When venting her frustration on her balcony one night, she finally meets her upstairs neighbor. Damien is on summer break from the Thunderbolts after missing the playoffs. He invites her to come hang out upstairs and the two have an instant connection. But as their friendship develops, so do their feelings.
I loved the instant friendship and connection that Harper and Damien had. It started out as a true friendship and then moved into something more once they realized the connection they had. Damien’s relationship with his family is rocky but totally relatable. Harper’s reasoning for not wanting to go to her reunion was also relatable. I really connected with this book in so many ways and I could not put it down once I started. This storyline was so perfect for Harper and Damien. We get some appearances from other Thunderbolts and I loved catching up with the team. As usual, I cannot wait for the next book from Gina Azzi.
Harper has her high school reunion coming up and she doesn’t want to go. But when her mom RSVPs for her, she has no choice but to attend. When venting her frustration on her balcony one night, she finally meets her upstairs neighbor. Damien is on summer break from the Thunderbolts after missing the playoffs. He invites her to come hang out upstairs and the two have an instant connection. But as their friendship develops, so do their feelings.
I loved the instant friendship and connection that Harper and Damien had. It started out as a true friendship and then moved into something more once they realized the connection they had. Damien’s relationship with his family is rocky but totally relatable. Harper’s reasoning for not wanting to go to her reunion was also relatable. I really connected with this book in so many ways and I could not put it down once I started. This storyline was so perfect for Harper and Damien. We get some appearances from other Thunderbolts and I loved catching up with the team. As usual, I cannot wait for the next book from Gina Azzi.
October 24, 2022
Gina Azzi just keeps giving us wonderful stories in the Tennessee Thunderbolts series, Playboy's Reward was a heart-pounding, hot, all-around magnificence read, and when our playboy falls, WOW the swoon is pure perfection.
Relationship shy Damien and Harper the woman who doesn't let her guard down very often but when she does she doesn't hold back, shouldn't have anything going for them, but when Harper decides to go on her balcony and let her frustration at having to attend her high school reunion out, it's her neighbour in the penthouse apartment one floor up that is going to come to her rescue, Damien the hot hockey player that Harper has been lusting after for better part of a year, Damien doesn't do relationships, from a wealthy family his parents have never been on board with the journey he took, one night stands are far less hassle, but he can't help but take a second look at his new neighbour whenever he sees her, now it looks like they are about to help each other out, but what might start out as friends were never going to last, as the heat and chemistry between the couple is sizzling under the surface and when it explodes, boy does it explode.
From interfering families to ex boyfriends that won't let go, Playboy's Reward has it all.
October 27, 2022
Excellent Read!
First off, congrats to Gina Azzi for being married to the man on the cover! Wowza! Second, I'm not sure if Damien earns the title of playboy...and I mean that in a good way.
Damien and Harper have the best meet-cute even if they have been neighbors for over a year. He's a hot as hell hockey player and she works for the Thunderbolts football team, so to say their schedules are busy is putting it mildly. After having a meltdown on her balcony, Harper scores a fake date with Damien and the story begins.
These two were written beautifully. They complimented each other well and had no problem laughing at themselves. Both with a smidge of past trauma, hers a boyfriend and his demanding family, they learn quickly how to have fun. It’s when things start to get real, that they need to figure out how to move forward.
The book is well written and funny as all get out at times. It’s a version of opposites attract, as they are from very different worlds. His stuffy family needed a woman like Harper around and so did Damien. I would hardly call Damien a playboy, but a swoon-worthy book boyfriend for sure. The book reads well as a standalone with a nice little epilogue to wrap things up.
Reviewed for Renee Entress’s Blog.
First off, congrats to Gina Azzi for being married to the man on the cover! Wowza! Second, I'm not sure if Damien earns the title of playboy...and I mean that in a good way.
Damien and Harper have the best meet-cute even if they have been neighbors for over a year. He's a hot as hell hockey player and she works for the Thunderbolts football team, so to say their schedules are busy is putting it mildly. After having a meltdown on her balcony, Harper scores a fake date with Damien and the story begins.
These two were written beautifully. They complimented each other well and had no problem laughing at themselves. Both with a smidge of past trauma, hers a boyfriend and his demanding family, they learn quickly how to have fun. It’s when things start to get real, that they need to figure out how to move forward.
The book is well written and funny as all get out at times. It’s a version of opposites attract, as they are from very different worlds. His stuffy family needed a woman like Harper around and so did Damien. I would hardly call Damien a playboy, but a swoon-worthy book boyfriend for sure. The book reads well as a standalone with a nice little epilogue to wrap things up.
Reviewed for Renee Entress’s Blog.
October 27, 2022
Harper and Damien's story was short, sweet, and sexy.
Their chemistry was through the roof the minute they officially met, and I adored how they spent their time together initially—just getting to know each other.
I could see that Damien's family was going to be an issue for him, but I knew Harper Henderson (being the boss lady that she was) would be able to handle it. Besides, she was a very likeable character... right?
Well, I may have underestimated his family. Sure, they were going 'through some things' and some serious things, at that. But, *wipes sweat from brow* I really hadn't anticipated everything that went down at the party—and the resulting fallout.
I got a little frustrated when Damien got in his own head about his family issues and screwed everything up before they really had a shot at something. Sigh... will men ever learn?
Despite his temporary idiocy, there were some good things to come out of the clusterfudge that was his family event.
His parents came around, his sister made some changes—as did his brother—and it brought them all closer together.
In the end, it was a fairly easy, enjoyable read. And I am VERY much looking forward to the next book.
4.5 stars
Their chemistry was through the roof the minute they officially met, and I adored how they spent their time together initially—just getting to know each other.
I could see that Damien's family was going to be an issue for him, but I knew Harper Henderson (being the boss lady that she was) would be able to handle it. Besides, she was a very likeable character... right?
Well, I may have underestimated his family. Sure, they were going 'through some things' and some serious things, at that. But, *wipes sweat from brow* I really hadn't anticipated everything that went down at the party—and the resulting fallout.
I got a little frustrated when Damien got in his own head about his family issues and screwed everything up before they really had a shot at something. Sigh... will men ever learn?
Despite his temporary idiocy, there were some good things to come out of the clusterfudge that was his family event.
His parents came around, his sister made some changes—as did his brother—and it brought them all closer together.
In the end, it was a fairly easy, enjoyable read. And I am VERY much looking forward to the next book.
4.5 stars
November 1, 2022
"How is it possible that this series just keeps getting better and better? Yet here we are!!! I cannot begin to describe how much I loved this book. The beginning of their relationship was basically a neighbor helping a fellow neighbor out - and I enjoyed that whole fake relationship trope. But then Damien & Harper’s story started to get real once it was Harper’s turn to help Damien at a family event. It was like there were two sides to Damien and he was a little bit conflicted with both. Without giving away the whole part of this storyline I really enjoyed how this part ended being resolved. It was so beautiful to read. Harper was such a magnificent character to read. The way she evolved throughout this story and by the end she definitely knew her worth - just amazing.
I feel like I am getting all gushy and part of me wishes I could go back to the start of the day and experience all the highs and lows of a first time read once again. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book" ~Sharon
Another hit by this author. I loved Damien and Harper. They had me laughing and cheering them on throughout this story. It was a great fake relationship trope but this had a little kick to it since you got to see so much of each of their true personalities. ~Jen
I feel like I am getting all gushy and part of me wishes I could go back to the start of the day and experience all the highs and lows of a first time read once again. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book" ~Sharon
Another hit by this author. I loved Damien and Harper. They had me laughing and cheering them on throughout this story. It was a great fake relationship trope but this had a little kick to it since you got to see so much of each of their true personalities. ~Jen
November 3, 2022
Playboy’s Reward is the fourth book in the Tennessee Thunderbolts series by Gina Azzi. You don’t have to have read all the other books in the series to love this one as this story could be enjoyed as a standalone. It’s fake relationship, friends to lovers sports romance of Harper & Damien. it’s the perfect addition to the wonderful Thunderbolts series. Damien is the sexy neighbour who lives right above Harper's apartment, even though she’s noticed him she never made a move likewise Damien notices Harper but doesn’t make a move till she send string of expletives! From the start I really liked the easiness of Damien and Harper's relationship, this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship which grows to a full fledged love relationship. Harper is such a beautiful soul, Damien used to be known as the playboy but there's something about Harper that drawn him to her and wanting to be the best for her. Such a beautiful and emotional swoon worthy romance with absolutely wonderful characters. This book was an emotionally charged romance story, filled with heart, emotion, and strength I loved these two together it was so sweet and the perfect way to wrap up their story.
Thank you to Wildfire marketing PR & the author for the e-ARC received for a honest review.
Thank you to Wildfire marketing PR & the author for the e-ARC received for a honest review.
November 7, 2022
Damien and Harper are neighbors, though they didn't really have a chance to get to know each other. When Harper's mother RSVP her for her 10 year high school reunion, Harper dreads going back home after some drama in her teens. When she's lamenting her predicament, her neighbor Damien happens to hear her, and after commiserating, offers to be her fake bf for the reunion. This may have started innocently, but their attraction to each other only gets stronger the more they spend time together.
Damien and Harper are both relationship -shy, having been hurt by love and family before. Harper is still feeling the effects of a betrayal from her ex and her best friend, and so even though she's moved closer to her hometown, she can't help feeling like an outsider. Damien had one significant relationship, but his family and the social circles they run in can be unforgiving and difficult to please. Both Damien and Harper do decide to try dating each other, but there is some slight OM drama from her ex and Damien's insecurities about his family cause roadblocks in their relationship. Overall, I don't know if Harper and Damien really sticks out to me from this series, but it was an enjoyable read.
Damien and Harper are both relationship -shy, having been hurt by love and family before. Harper is still feeling the effects of a betrayal from her ex and her best friend, and so even though she's moved closer to her hometown, she can't help feeling like an outsider. Damien had one significant relationship, but his family and the social circles they run in can be unforgiving and difficult to please. Both Damien and Harper do decide to try dating each other, but there is some slight OM drama from her ex and Damien's insecurities about his family cause roadblocks in their relationship. Overall, I don't know if Harper and Damien really sticks out to me from this series, but it was an enjoyable read.
October 18, 2022
Harper and Damien deliver a story I wasn’t expecting, in the very best way! She needs a date…or an shield. He wants an in with the woman who’s had his interest for almost a year, even if only as a friend. So when Harper opens the door a little bit, Damien is happy to charm his way into her heart, but he’s not expecting Harper to do the same with him. The real question is whether or not they have the staying power when things get real.
I adore Harper’s refusal to be beaten down, and the loyalty that is shown to her by her team and new friends proves exactly how worthy she is of love and friendship. And while Damien almost ruins it all, he steps up when his teammates/friends set his fears straight. He also knows how to admit his fears, his faults, and how to grovel like nobody’s business! Harper is no stranger to admitting her own faults, as well, so these two have a bright future full of love and communication ahead of them. One complete with a changing family dynamic that was long overdue, but that delivers something sweet and amusing for all to enjoy.
I really look forward to more of this series and just know that we have more hilarity, angst, and love ahead.
I adore Harper’s refusal to be beaten down, and the loyalty that is shown to her by her team and new friends proves exactly how worthy she is of love and friendship. And while Damien almost ruins it all, he steps up when his teammates/friends set his fears straight. He also knows how to admit his fears, his faults, and how to grovel like nobody’s business! Harper is no stranger to admitting her own faults, as well, so these two have a bright future full of love and communication ahead of them. One complete with a changing family dynamic that was long overdue, but that delivers something sweet and amusing for all to enjoy.
I really look forward to more of this series and just know that we have more hilarity, angst, and love ahead.
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