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Nashville Devils #1
Forbidden Devil
Rule number one of hockey team ownership: don't sleep with the players.
Growing up Oliver Benson's daughter, I've known this rule all my life. And when I unexpectedly inherit the Nashville Devils, his hockey team, all eyes are on me--waiting for me to fail.
My eyes?
They're on Lincoln Dallas, team captain and star right winger.
Who could blame me? That body. Those eyes. The way he moves on and off the ice. And when he gives me even the slightest touch, I find myself giving in.
But he's completely forbidden.
Not only would dating destroy both our careers, but our history left a bruise on my heart, and I never want to make that mistake again. Especially when it would compromise everything I've worked for.
He says he's willing to break the rules and risk it all.
Am I?
Forbidden Devil is a laugh-out-loud, steamy, second chance, forbidden romance with a dirty talking alpha hero that has it bad for his tight skirt wearing boss. This book is a stand-alone within a series and, as always, comes with a happy ending.
Growing up Oliver Benson's daughter, I've known this rule all my life. And when I unexpectedly inherit the Nashville Devils, his hockey team, all eyes are on me--waiting for me to fail.
My eyes?
They're on Lincoln Dallas, team captain and star right winger.
Who could blame me? That body. Those eyes. The way he moves on and off the ice. And when he gives me even the slightest touch, I find myself giving in.
But he's completely forbidden.
Not only would dating destroy both our careers, but our history left a bruise on my heart, and I never want to make that mistake again. Especially when it would compromise everything I've worked for.
He says he's willing to break the rules and risk it all.
Am I?
Forbidden Devil is a laugh-out-loud, steamy, second chance, forbidden romance with a dirty talking alpha hero that has it bad for his tight skirt wearing boss. This book is a stand-alone within a series and, as always, comes with a happy ending.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 5, 2022
1009 people are currently reading
6162 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 430 reviews
March 11, 2021
This would have been a good story if not for the ending.
March 19, 2021
"This right here is all I need. Everything else can be figured out."
I saw this book cover and the blurb here because a friend had read it (thank you, CC!). I couldn't help myself and pre-ordered then and there. This is Melissa Ivers' first full-length book and she's already been added to my 1-click list. I really loved this book!
Lincoln and Jazz are so freaking hot together my Kindle actually restarted on its own mid-book, the poor thing. Be warned: this book is extremely steamy, the sex scenes are hot as hell, and Lincoln has an adorable dirty mouth on him.
What's not to love, right? Right!
"There isn’t a damn thing wrong with that man, and it pisses me off."
So, yeah. Lincoln. Lincoln is a total dreamboat from the start. There's so much I can say about him, but the main things are that he's devoted, driven, passionate, and absolutely freaking swoonworthy. One of those alpha males with a heart so big you just want to take him home with you. Yes, there's a possessiveness about him, but not in a bad way. He's just someone who's there all the way.
"So, I’ll showcase my curves when I can and put my femininity on display. I’m not going to change who I am for anyone."
Jazz is the kind of heroine I love. There's not a weak bone in her body. Her father died and left her and her brother with a hockey team. There's trouble from the start, because having a woman as a hockey team owner? That steps on most people's toes. And I love it that she doesn't care, and that she's always herself, despite the pressure on all sides to be someone she's not. I also love that she's not shy in the bedroom (or, in fact, anywhere else!). A strong heroine if ever I saw one.
"I was a goner the second she skated back into my life."
Jazz was a skater for the Olympic team 6 years before, and that's when she met Lincoln. They had a brief thing, but the chemistry was there from the start. Once she realizes she inherited the hockey team he plays for, she knows there can't be anything between them.
The problem is that their attraction hasn't dissipated over the years - if anything, it's now stronger than ever. So, he's the devil, and forbidden, if she wants to be taken serious in a man's world.
"Jaz-ersize: I’m sure you say that to all the ladies.
The Missing Linc: What ladies? All I see is you."
I love them together. I like how much they fight not to give in, and what goes through their minds during that time, and I absolutely love it when they finally do. What they have needs to be kept a secret for the sake of their jobs, but you see their relationship progressing and just how hard they're falling for each other.
Besides being incredible together, their banter is sweet, sexy, hot, and hilarious at times. Their messages to each other had me giggling. Lincoln's teammates had me laughing out loud.
I also want to mention the way in which Melissa deals with a sensitive issue, which is women in a position of power. From the start, Jazz has to try harder and prove herself because she's a woman. If she were a man, there'd be no question of her capabilities as an owner, and she could probably date/be with anyone she wanted. But she's not.
"She’s it for me. There’s no one else that can even compare, and I don’t want to try."
Without giving anything away, I absolutely LOVE that it's Jazz who takes hold of things and leads them to their happily ever after.
These two are so "it" for each other it just warmed my heart. Once they're back in each other's lives, nothing could stand in their way, and that really did it for me.
Congratulations, Melissa. I loved this book! Looking forward to more of them!
I saw this book cover and the blurb here because a friend had read it (thank you, CC!). I couldn't help myself and pre-ordered then and there. This is Melissa Ivers' first full-length book and she's already been added to my 1-click list. I really loved this book!
Lincoln and Jazz are so freaking hot together my Kindle actually restarted on its own mid-book, the poor thing. Be warned: this book is extremely steamy, the sex scenes are hot as hell, and Lincoln has an adorable dirty mouth on him.
What's not to love, right? Right!
"There isn’t a damn thing wrong with that man, and it pisses me off."
So, yeah. Lincoln. Lincoln is a total dreamboat from the start. There's so much I can say about him, but the main things are that he's devoted, driven, passionate, and absolutely freaking swoonworthy. One of those alpha males with a heart so big you just want to take him home with you. Yes, there's a possessiveness about him, but not in a bad way. He's just someone who's there all the way.
"So, I’ll showcase my curves when I can and put my femininity on display. I’m not going to change who I am for anyone."
Jazz is the kind of heroine I love. There's not a weak bone in her body. Her father died and left her and her brother with a hockey team. There's trouble from the start, because having a woman as a hockey team owner? That steps on most people's toes. And I love it that she doesn't care, and that she's always herself, despite the pressure on all sides to be someone she's not. I also love that she's not shy in the bedroom (or, in fact, anywhere else!). A strong heroine if ever I saw one.
"I was a goner the second she skated back into my life."
Jazz was a skater for the Olympic team 6 years before, and that's when she met Lincoln. They had a brief thing, but the chemistry was there from the start. Once she realizes she inherited the hockey team he plays for, she knows there can't be anything between them.
The problem is that their attraction hasn't dissipated over the years - if anything, it's now stronger than ever. So, he's the devil, and forbidden, if she wants to be taken serious in a man's world.
"Jaz-ersize: I’m sure you say that to all the ladies.
The Missing Linc: What ladies? All I see is you."
I love them together. I like how much they fight not to give in, and what goes through their minds during that time, and I absolutely love it when they finally do. What they have needs to be kept a secret for the sake of their jobs, but you see their relationship progressing and just how hard they're falling for each other.
Besides being incredible together, their banter is sweet, sexy, hot, and hilarious at times. Their messages to each other had me giggling. Lincoln's teammates had me laughing out loud.
I also want to mention the way in which Melissa deals with a sensitive issue, which is women in a position of power. From the start, Jazz has to try harder and prove herself because she's a woman. If she were a man, there'd be no question of her capabilities as an owner, and she could probably date/be with anyone she wanted. But she's not.
"She’s it for me. There’s no one else that can even compare, and I don’t want to try."
Without giving anything away, I absolutely LOVE that it's Jazz who takes hold of things and leads them to their happily ever after.
These two are so "it" for each other it just warmed my heart. Once they're back in each other's lives, nothing could stand in their way, and that really did it for me.
Congratulations, Melissa. I loved this book! Looking forward to more of them!
April 15, 2021
Forbidden Devil is the first stand-alone novel with no cliffhanger and a HEA in the Nashville Devils series.
This is a debut novel by new to me author Melissa Ivers. I am impressed that this is the author’s first full length novel. I saw this book all over my bookstagram feed and knew I had to read it. This book has all the tropes: workplace/forbidden romance, second chance and hockey.
The story was written well captivating in the beginning. Right away, you’re faced with an issue and we’re left needing to know how things will work out. There are times during the middle of the novel however, where I felt as though the story dragged. I also wished I felt more love from the characters.
Jazlyn aka Jazz and her brother Gordon inherit the Nashville Devils. Jazz and Gordon never had a good relationship with their father. In addition to that, Jazz faces unfair scrutiny by the media as well as her colleagues simply because she’s a woman.
Turns out, her ex, Lincoln is a hockey player on the Nashville Devils. Linc still wants Jazz. He makes that clear right away with his steamy inner monologue. Linc is a dirty talker! A very dirty talker. Jazz tries to deny her attraction of course, because she’s the team owner and she’s already getting crucified in the media.
I found some parts to drag yes, but I was also cracking up at times. Loved the humor. It’s impressive when a book can make you laugh.
I didn’t feel that much love or chemistry between the couple aside from sexual. Some may feel different, but I do suggest you read it and see for yourself, especially if you like sports/hockey romances. This book has lots of hockey references.
This is a debut novel by new to me author Melissa Ivers. I am impressed that this is the author’s first full length novel. I saw this book all over my bookstagram feed and knew I had to read it. This book has all the tropes: workplace/forbidden romance, second chance and hockey.
The story was written well captivating in the beginning. Right away, you’re faced with an issue and we’re left needing to know how things will work out. There are times during the middle of the novel however, where I felt as though the story dragged. I also wished I felt more love from the characters.
Jazlyn aka Jazz and her brother Gordon inherit the Nashville Devils. Jazz and Gordon never had a good relationship with their father. In addition to that, Jazz faces unfair scrutiny by the media as well as her colleagues simply because she’s a woman.
Turns out, her ex, Lincoln is a hockey player on the Nashville Devils. Linc still wants Jazz. He makes that clear right away with his steamy inner monologue. Linc is a dirty talker! A very dirty talker. Jazz tries to deny her attraction of course, because she’s the team owner and she’s already getting crucified in the media.
I found some parts to drag yes, but I was also cracking up at times. Loved the humor. It’s impressive when a book can make you laugh.
I didn’t feel that much love or chemistry between the couple aside from sexual. Some may feel different, but I do suggest you read it and see for yourself, especially if you like sports/hockey romances. This book has lots of hockey references.
March 1, 2021
4.5 STARS
NEW to me author & books, you can check out my full review on my Blog -> CLICK HERE
August 27, 2023
It was good until she gave up her career for a man.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2021
•An Absolute MUST Read!!!•
After having a taste of Melissa’s writing with Mistletoes and Mischief I knew I had found an author I would be a forever fan of. After reading this, her first full length book Forbidden Devil, it just confirms everything I already knew.
This book is AMAZING!!! The characters in this book are so fantastic and unique they draw you in to each of their own individual personalities and stories instantly. The chemistry between Lincoln and Jazlyn is off the flippin’ charts! These two have a slight history and I really enjoyed seeing how it all played out. From the forbiddance of the relationship, to the serious heat between them and of course the sweet moments in between where we get a glimpse of inner hidden feelings and turmoil. The bromances between the teammates is my absolute FAVORITE part of her writing as it’s incredibly humorous and charming. It also gives us nice insight into them as a whole and their individual personalities which leaves you in anticipation of their possible stories to come.
This book not only brought the heat and humor but also evoked emotions and reactions I was not expecting and it kept me from putting the book down.
Melissa’s talent for balancing inner monologue and dialogue sets the perfect pace for the book. Her dialogue especially, is one of the strongest I’ve come across, it comes off natural and is so enjoyable and engaging to read.
I can’t recommend this book enough!! From the characters to the writing style to the overall story this entire book is an absolute MUST read. I’m so excited for what’s next!
After having a taste of Melissa’s writing with Mistletoes and Mischief I knew I had found an author I would be a forever fan of. After reading this, her first full length book Forbidden Devil, it just confirms everything I already knew.
This book is AMAZING!!! The characters in this book are so fantastic and unique they draw you in to each of their own individual personalities and stories instantly. The chemistry between Lincoln and Jazlyn is off the flippin’ charts! These two have a slight history and I really enjoyed seeing how it all played out. From the forbiddance of the relationship, to the serious heat between them and of course the sweet moments in between where we get a glimpse of inner hidden feelings and turmoil. The bromances between the teammates is my absolute FAVORITE part of her writing as it’s incredibly humorous and charming. It also gives us nice insight into them as a whole and their individual personalities which leaves you in anticipation of their possible stories to come.
This book not only brought the heat and humor but also evoked emotions and reactions I was not expecting and it kept me from putting the book down.
Melissa’s talent for balancing inner monologue and dialogue sets the perfect pace for the book. Her dialogue especially, is one of the strongest I’ve come across, it comes off natural and is so enjoyable and engaging to read.
I can’t recommend this book enough!! From the characters to the writing style to the overall story this entire book is an absolute MUST read. I’m so excited for what’s next!
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March 7, 2021
Hockey romance? Check.
Second chance romance? Check.
Forbidden feels? Check.
BA heroine? Check.
Forbidden Devil easily checks a lot of boxes of things I love.
Jazlyn inherits the hockey team, along with her brother, that her father owned. She faces a lot of struggles with being young and being a woman in her industry, even though she also plays hockey. She understands the sport and has Olympic metals in the sport. I loved that she wasn’t a weak character, she was strong and she wasn’t afraid to fight and stand up for herself. Lincoln is a hockey player, he is talented, hilarious and has a caring side to him. Him and Jazz have a history. They met six years prior at the Olympics and had a month together that was perfect, then everything changed and Jazz never heard from Lincoln, again. Now she is his boss and the chemistry brewing between them can never go beyond just a feeling.
The tension, the chemistry, all the forbidden goodness between Jazz and Lincoln was amazing! I couldn’t get enough of it. They not only had the physical connection, but they were great for each other in every aspect. There was passion, sweet moments, and laughs. There isn’t a single thing I didn’t love about Jazz and Lincoln.
I loved getting to know all the other players on the team, along with Lucy and Jazz’s brother, Gordon. I can’t wait to learn more about everyone and get more peaks of Jazz and Lincoln in the future.
If you’re looking for a second chance, hockey romance, with a strong heroine this is one to read!
Second chance romance? Check.
Forbidden feels? Check.
BA heroine? Check.
Forbidden Devil easily checks a lot of boxes of things I love.
Jazlyn inherits the hockey team, along with her brother, that her father owned. She faces a lot of struggles with being young and being a woman in her industry, even though she also plays hockey. She understands the sport and has Olympic metals in the sport. I loved that she wasn’t a weak character, she was strong and she wasn’t afraid to fight and stand up for herself. Lincoln is a hockey player, he is talented, hilarious and has a caring side to him. Him and Jazz have a history. They met six years prior at the Olympics and had a month together that was perfect, then everything changed and Jazz never heard from Lincoln, again. Now she is his boss and the chemistry brewing between them can never go beyond just a feeling.
The tension, the chemistry, all the forbidden goodness between Jazz and Lincoln was amazing! I couldn’t get enough of it. They not only had the physical connection, but they were great for each other in every aspect. There was passion, sweet moments, and laughs. There isn’t a single thing I didn’t love about Jazz and Lincoln.
I loved getting to know all the other players on the team, along with Lucy and Jazz’s brother, Gordon. I can’t wait to learn more about everyone and get more peaks of Jazz and Lincoln in the future.
If you’re looking for a second chance, hockey romance, with a strong heroine this is one to read!
March 25, 2021
Oh I absolutely loved this book! As a first book, and for a totally new author, you never know what to expect... let me tell you she came out swinging with this! The story was great, the fire, the team dynamics.. everything... and Lincoln is smoking! Totally a dirty talking alpha hero, and I’m not complaining one bit about that. I am already eager to read Tags story!! Totally launched into my must read author category already.
February 21, 2021
Ivers came in HOT with this book.
Lincoln and Jazlyn are the main characters of this book reunited after 6 years apart.
The reunion is unexpected for the pair and the emotions are high.
Damn the consequences they can't stay away from each other.
The connection these two have is hot and the spice is off the charts!!!
Read the book to see what happens, of Jazlyns struggling to do her job and the conflicts they both face.
What a lovely story and a great ending.
Perfect for readers who love Sports and alpha hero tropes.
Well done Melissa you made me find a new favourite trope.
Lincoln and Jazlyn are the main characters of this book reunited after 6 years apart.
The reunion is unexpected for the pair and the emotions are high.
Damn the consequences they can't stay away from each other.
The connection these two have is hot and the spice is off the charts!!!
Read the book to see what happens, of Jazlyns struggling to do her job and the conflicts they both face.
What a lovely story and a great ending.
Perfect for readers who love Sports and alpha hero tropes.
Well done Melissa you made me find a new favourite trope.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2021
Jazlyn Benson never dreamed she’d have to quit her job as an Olympic hockey coach to co-own a hockey team, but that’s exactly what she ends up doing when her father leaves it to her and her older brother in his will. When Jazz finds herself back in Tennessee, the last person she expects to run into (literally) is her old flame Lincoln Dallas, now a member of the very hockey team she’s in charge of. It’s been six years since they broke things off, but Jazlyn quickly realizes that she is still very much attracted to him. But anything beyond a strictly professional relationship is forbidden - the media is already having a field day with the idea of a female owner of a professional hockey team, and things would spiral out of control if word got out that she was dating one of her players. So Jazz swallows her feelings and tries to keep things professional with Lincoln - not that he’s making it very easy.
Lincoln Dallas is sick and tired of being under appreciated on a team that isn’t even close to making it to playoffs. But everything changes when Jazlyn Benson unexpectedly comes back into his life after he hasn’t seen her for six years. Jazz is his biggest regret, the one that got away. He is determined to not let that happen again - at least, until he realizes that she’s his boss. Knowing that Jazlyn can give him a really sucky trade if things don’t go well, he tries to keep his distance, but at the same time, he can’t quite stop the feelings that stir deeply in his heart every time he looks at her. He then decides that he’s willing to do anything to have her, even if they can never go public. All that’s left? To win her over.
Sparks fly as Jazlyn and Lincoln skate around each other. They both know that this could end badly, and disastrous if the media gets involved. But neither can seem to stay away... Lincoln knows he’s in this for the long haul. Now? He must convince Jazz of that fact.
Holy heck, this book was complete and total perfection. “Forbidden Devil” is the first book in Melissa Ivers’ new hockey romance series, Nashville Devils. You will absolutely adore Lincoln and Jazlyn’s satisfyingly steamy story. While it is slow burn at first, when things heat up, it’s definitely worth it! Ivers’ world building was exquisite, and her incredibly realistic portrayal of what it is like to be a woman in a word dominated by men was very well executed. This is my first venture into sports romance, but it definitely won’t be my last! I definitely recommend this novel and Ivers’ writing in general, so go preorder “Forbidden Devil” right now!
I received a free copy of this book from the author, and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lincoln Dallas is sick and tired of being under appreciated on a team that isn’t even close to making it to playoffs. But everything changes when Jazlyn Benson unexpectedly comes back into his life after he hasn’t seen her for six years. Jazz is his biggest regret, the one that got away. He is determined to not let that happen again - at least, until he realizes that she’s his boss. Knowing that Jazlyn can give him a really sucky trade if things don’t go well, he tries to keep his distance, but at the same time, he can’t quite stop the feelings that stir deeply in his heart every time he looks at her. He then decides that he’s willing to do anything to have her, even if they can never go public. All that’s left? To win her over.
Sparks fly as Jazlyn and Lincoln skate around each other. They both know that this could end badly, and disastrous if the media gets involved. But neither can seem to stay away... Lincoln knows he’s in this for the long haul. Now? He must convince Jazz of that fact.
Holy heck, this book was complete and total perfection. “Forbidden Devil” is the first book in Melissa Ivers’ new hockey romance series, Nashville Devils. You will absolutely adore Lincoln and Jazlyn’s satisfyingly steamy story. While it is slow burn at first, when things heat up, it’s definitely worth it! Ivers’ world building was exquisite, and her incredibly realistic portrayal of what it is like to be a woman in a word dominated by men was very well executed. This is my first venture into sports romance, but it definitely won’t be my last! I definitely recommend this novel and Ivers’ writing in general, so go preorder “Forbidden Devil” right now!
I received a free copy of this book from the author, and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 25, 2022
The ending made no sense at all and really disappointed me. The whole plot line is that there are not enough women in the sport and that Jazz would be the one to show women could be involved in the NHL. Then the ending abruptly has her give up her half of the ownership to her brother when she wanted to use the team as a way to rebuild the relationship between her and her brother. All for a man who didn’t listen to her when she said not in public? It’s totally his fault that she is and will be dragged through the mud and he did nothing to help or stop it. The end seemed like the author ran out of ideas for the plot/ending and wanted to wrap it up. Very disappointed and completely ruined the story for me
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2022
Linc and his filthy mouth set my kindle (and my panties) on fire!!! He and Jaz and some INSANE chemistry and I couldn't read fast enough! These two are the ultimate couple goals and I just loved the way they loved one another. Why did I wait so long to read this series?! Now I'm on my way to reading Tags book!!
ETA: This book deserves more positive reviews. Go give it a chance peeps!
ETA: This book deserves more positive reviews. Go give it a chance peeps!
March 7, 2021
Almost a year ago, I was introduced to the hockey romance world courtesy of Mira Lyn Kelly and her Back To You series. Since diving headfirst into the world of sports romance (I literally had no idea that was really a thing!), I found that even though in real life I am not a sports fan, I am extremely happy to lose myself in a book that features these alpha male athletes and the women they turn all soft on the inside for.
So when a new author approached me to review her debut hockey romance novel, Forbidden Devil, of course I said “GIMME!”
Book reviews for authors I’ve never heard of before, at least in my opinion, tend to swing two ways — either you get an author whose novel is full of plot holes, bad grammar and so many editing mistakes that you can’t stand to continue reading past the first couple of chapters, or you devour and finish the book, wondering how a first book for a new author can blow your mind and shred your heart so completely straight out of the gate.
Melissa Ivers sails into the second category with Forbidden Devil, and gives her readers a fully-formed world to inhabit. Her heroine, Jazlyn Benson, is not just a strong female lead, but the voice Ivers gives to Jazz is snarky and sassy while portraying emotions that grabbed at my heart strings. The alpha male hero, Lincoln Dallas, is not at all what I expected from the sports romance genre. Yes, he’s cocky and he has that dominant quality that I’ve come to associate with these types of books, but Linc also has this hauntingly beautiful vulnerability that you don’t often see in male characters — and he didn’t grow into it throughout the story, he simply had it from the very beginning, and it was a refreshing twist on the alpha male hero we have come to know.
A really great author crafts a story that sucks you in from the start, and creates a cast of characters you can picture yourself being friends with.
While Forbidden Devil revolves around Jazz and Lincoln, Ivers has potentially set herself up for an incredibly successful series because of the depth of characters and the relationships that have been built in this first novel. I finished this book with my mind spinning in all sorts of directions the series could go, finding myself invested in all of the characters that filled the pages and hoping that Gordon Benson get his own book VERY SOON.
Ultimately, this book has gifted me with a new author to follow, a new handful of characters to fangirl over, and a new series to look forward to.
If you love sexy as f*** alpha males that light your panties on fire and female leads with boss bi*** energy, you should definitely check out Forbidden Devil!
So when a new author approached me to review her debut hockey romance novel, Forbidden Devil, of course I said “GIMME!”
Book reviews for authors I’ve never heard of before, at least in my opinion, tend to swing two ways — either you get an author whose novel is full of plot holes, bad grammar and so many editing mistakes that you can’t stand to continue reading past the first couple of chapters, or you devour and finish the book, wondering how a first book for a new author can blow your mind and shred your heart so completely straight out of the gate.
Melissa Ivers sails into the second category with Forbidden Devil, and gives her readers a fully-formed world to inhabit. Her heroine, Jazlyn Benson, is not just a strong female lead, but the voice Ivers gives to Jazz is snarky and sassy while portraying emotions that grabbed at my heart strings. The alpha male hero, Lincoln Dallas, is not at all what I expected from the sports romance genre. Yes, he’s cocky and he has that dominant quality that I’ve come to associate with these types of books, but Linc also has this hauntingly beautiful vulnerability that you don’t often see in male characters — and he didn’t grow into it throughout the story, he simply had it from the very beginning, and it was a refreshing twist on the alpha male hero we have come to know.
A really great author crafts a story that sucks you in from the start, and creates a cast of characters you can picture yourself being friends with.
While Forbidden Devil revolves around Jazz and Lincoln, Ivers has potentially set herself up for an incredibly successful series because of the depth of characters and the relationships that have been built in this first novel. I finished this book with my mind spinning in all sorts of directions the series could go, finding myself invested in all of the characters that filled the pages and hoping that Gordon Benson get his own book VERY SOON.
Ultimately, this book has gifted me with a new author to follow, a new handful of characters to fangirl over, and a new series to look forward to.
If you love sexy as f*** alpha males that light your panties on fire and female leads with boss bi*** energy, you should definitely check out Forbidden Devil!
March 11, 2021
➳ Rate: 4/ 5 stars
Forbidden Devil is Melissa Ivers’ debut book and it is a sexy, fun and forbidden second chance romance.
Sports romance meets office romance with all the forbidden vibes. You can expect some angst and even some suspenseful vibes. A woman making her place in the business world and trying to prove to men and the world can she can and she can do it better than most.
And darn it was also such a sexy read! The chemistry and pull between these two was fire!! I really enjoyed this one!
➳ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
➳ Order at: Amazon US
➳ Follow me on: Instagram ⁕ Facebook ⁕ Twitter
Forbidden Devil is Melissa Ivers’ debut book and it is a sexy, fun and forbidden second chance romance.
Sports romance meets office romance with all the forbidden vibes. You can expect some angst and even some suspenseful vibes. A woman making her place in the business world and trying to prove to men and the world can she can and she can do it better than most.
And darn it was also such a sexy read! The chemistry and pull between these two was fire!! I really enjoyed this one!
➳ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
➳ Order at: Amazon US
➳ Follow me on: Instagram ⁕ Facebook ⁕ Twitter
March 6, 2021
This is one hockey romance that definitely SCORES!!
If you love a dirty talking hero with an alpha outside and a heart as big as his hockey stick, you'll fall helmet over hockey skates for Lincoln Dallas....
Jazyln Benson never expected Lincoln Dallas to skate back into her life. Now here they are 6 years later. She's the new owner of the Nashville Devils and he's her star player. A relationship would be career suicide for both of them but, to reclaim what they once had is proving to be harder and harder to deny despite being completely forbidden...
Lincoln and Jazz are great characters with sizzling chemistry. This sexy romance leaves you laughing, smiling, and definitely turns up the heat! It's the perfect blend of fun and lovable characters (Tag, Lucy, and Foster), a little bit of conflict or drama, off the charts texting game, and smoking hot sexy times times.
I enjoyed the hell out of this book and it's definitely one your going to want to add to your TBR! You need Jazz and Lincoln in your life! Fun and flirty, sexy, sweet, and hilarious...you absolutely don’t want to pass this one up!
*I was generously given an ARC copy of this book by the author for an honest review *
If you love a dirty talking hero with an alpha outside and a heart as big as his hockey stick, you'll fall helmet over hockey skates for Lincoln Dallas....
Jazyln Benson never expected Lincoln Dallas to skate back into her life. Now here they are 6 years later. She's the new owner of the Nashville Devils and he's her star player. A relationship would be career suicide for both of them but, to reclaim what they once had is proving to be harder and harder to deny despite being completely forbidden...
Lincoln and Jazz are great characters with sizzling chemistry. This sexy romance leaves you laughing, smiling, and definitely turns up the heat! It's the perfect blend of fun and lovable characters (Tag, Lucy, and Foster), a little bit of conflict or drama, off the charts texting game, and smoking hot sexy times times.
I enjoyed the hell out of this book and it's definitely one your going to want to add to your TBR! You need Jazz and Lincoln in your life! Fun and flirty, sexy, sweet, and hilarious...you absolutely don’t want to pass this one up!
*I was generously given an ARC copy of this book by the author for an honest review *
March 9, 2021
This is my first read by Melissa and she hit all the right spots for me with this hockey romance. I love how Jazzlyn played hockey in the past and wasn't a weak heroine, and Lincoln was just all the swoon worthy hockey player that I dream of. The plot played out smoothly and I caught myself chuckling over Jazzlyn's inner monologue. The chemistry between these two are off the charts. I really enjoyed this second chance romance and look forward to Tag's story.
****I received an ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review****
****I received an ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review****
March 5, 2021
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
This book follows Jazlyn and her sibling as they inherit their father’s hockey team after his death. She soon finds that her old flame is on this team and that is when the real sparks fly!
I found this book to be very spicy.Jazlyn is a strong, independent woman all day which is my favorite type of female character. But Lincoln? He’s pure alpha male all the way. He let her go once, years ago, and he will not do so again.
This book had amazing spice and chemistry between Lincoln and Jazlyn. I loved their quirky relationship and the banter included in this book! I can’t wait to read the next book about Tag!
This book follows Jazlyn and her sibling as they inherit their father’s hockey team after his death. She soon finds that her old flame is on this team and that is when the real sparks fly!
I found this book to be very spicy.Jazlyn is a strong, independent woman all day which is my favorite type of female character. But Lincoln? He’s pure alpha male all the way. He let her go once, years ago, and he will not do so again.
This book had amazing spice and chemistry between Lincoln and Jazlyn. I loved their quirky relationship and the banter included in this book! I can’t wait to read the next book about Tag!
March 11, 2021
This is my first book from Melissa Ivers but it definitely won't be my last. Can't wait to read Tag's story.
December 29, 2022
Ahhhh LOVED this second chance hockey romance - 4.5⭐️
Jazz never expected to inherit a hockey team when her father passed. She knows hockey but not so much the NHL. And with everyone rooting against her, she’s not sure how to handle an old flame. Lincoln lives and breathes hockey, until he lays eyes on her again. But with so much on the line for him, he can’t risk anything tarnishing his reputation.
Loved this! 😍 The spice is amazing! Lincoln definitely knows what he’s doing. 😏 And Jazz is honestly his perfect match. The way they both try to do what’s best but can’t help their love is honestly the sweetest thing. Add in a lil sexist drama and the NHL - ahh this was so good. I thoroughly enjoyed their story!!
Cannot wait for Tag’s! He seriously cracks me up.
Jazz never expected to inherit a hockey team when her father passed. She knows hockey but not so much the NHL. And with everyone rooting against her, she’s not sure how to handle an old flame. Lincoln lives and breathes hockey, until he lays eyes on her again. But with so much on the line for him, he can’t risk anything tarnishing his reputation.
Loved this! 😍 The spice is amazing! Lincoln definitely knows what he’s doing. 😏 And Jazz is honestly his perfect match. The way they both try to do what’s best but can’t help their love is honestly the sweetest thing. Add in a lil sexist drama and the NHL - ahh this was so good. I thoroughly enjoyed their story!!
Cannot wait for Tag’s! He seriously cracks me up.
March 13, 2021
4.5 stars
Forbidden Devil is the first installment in the Nashville Devils and tells the story of Lincoln and Jazyln. This was also my first read of Melissa and it didn’t disappoint.
Jazlyn is the new co-owner of the hockey team, position inherited from her father. Lincoln is part of the hockey team and the team’s captain. They new each other and dated for some time, when they both were younger and were competing in the Olympic games, but then they lost touch. So now six years later, they met again from the posture of a “boss and employee”. There is chemistry between them, the sparks didn’t die in those six years, so the pull between them is bigger now. Jazlyn has a hard time in her new role, since the hockey world is a men’s world, so she has part of some hard stuff, Lincoln doesn’t want to tarnish his and Jazlyn careers. So, they start dating in secret, but when the times come will they make the right choices?
I liked this story; it was funny and beautiful, and their inner monologue was hilarious. Also, the side characters brought some additional quality to the story, and I am curious to read their story.
I liked Lincoln and Jazlyn relationship and interactions, there was some drama too, which made the story suspenseful, it wasn’t so fast paced, but neither too slow. Indeed, their relationship started a little bit slow, but you’ll understand what the cause for this was. But then it got steamy and with more interaction. I would say that in the beginning it was brought too much into discussion Jazlyn’s gender and why is she not good enough, but this was not really an issue in the end.
It was an interesting read and I look forward to reading the next stories from this series.
Forbidden Devil is the first installment in the Nashville Devils and tells the story of Lincoln and Jazyln. This was also my first read of Melissa and it didn’t disappoint.
Jazlyn is the new co-owner of the hockey team, position inherited from her father. Lincoln is part of the hockey team and the team’s captain. They new each other and dated for some time, when they both were younger and were competing in the Olympic games, but then they lost touch. So now six years later, they met again from the posture of a “boss and employee”. There is chemistry between them, the sparks didn’t die in those six years, so the pull between them is bigger now. Jazlyn has a hard time in her new role, since the hockey world is a men’s world, so she has part of some hard stuff, Lincoln doesn’t want to tarnish his and Jazlyn careers. So, they start dating in secret, but when the times come will they make the right choices?
I liked this story; it was funny and beautiful, and their inner monologue was hilarious. Also, the side characters brought some additional quality to the story, and I am curious to read their story.
I liked Lincoln and Jazlyn relationship and interactions, there was some drama too, which made the story suspenseful, it wasn’t so fast paced, but neither too slow. Indeed, their relationship started a little bit slow, but you’ll understand what the cause for this was. But then it got steamy and with more interaction. I would say that in the beginning it was brought too much into discussion Jazlyn’s gender and why is she not good enough, but this was not really an issue in the end.
It was an interesting read and I look forward to reading the next stories from this series.
March 2, 2021
Melissa Ivers is a new to me author (and newer in general) so I was equally excited and hesitant about reading the first book of the Nashville Devils series. I was happily surprised to find that I loved the way the author writes; I can’t quite put my finger on how it is different except that I felt like we were best friends and she was talking directly to me! Forbidden Devil ended up checking all the boxes for me: it’s funny, has hockey, is extra extra steamy, and has a little suspense. Did I mention steamy?
Jaz is a former women’s Olympic hockey player and as a hockey player myself that was the first thing I loved about this book as it’s not something I come across often. I love how strong she is and that she says what she feels- I really felt like she was my alter ego who talked the way I talk in my head! When she inherits the ownership of the failing professional hockey team the Nashville Devils with her brother, there is a lot of sexism and I found myself getting so mad at the way she was treated! She had to hold herself to a higher standard which makes Lincoln forbidden, as he is a player on her team and it doesn’t matter that they had a short relationship 6 years prior.
Lincoln is a protective alpha with a soft side when it comes to Jaz. He just might be one of my new favorite book boyfriends! When he sees Jaz again he knows that she is all he wants, even though he understands why it might not be the greatest idea given their current boss/employee relationship. The chemistry between these two is tangible and soon it can’t be ignored.
Their story is pretty low on the angst which I loved and does have a HEA, but there is a little bit of necessary drama that they go through to get there. Even though there were a couple of things that I wish would’ve been different (a particularly rude character who I feel gets let off easy and the way things go with Jaz’s position) I still loved this book and will be not so patiently waiting for the next book in the series!
Jaz is a former women’s Olympic hockey player and as a hockey player myself that was the first thing I loved about this book as it’s not something I come across often. I love how strong she is and that she says what she feels- I really felt like she was my alter ego who talked the way I talk in my head! When she inherits the ownership of the failing professional hockey team the Nashville Devils with her brother, there is a lot of sexism and I found myself getting so mad at the way she was treated! She had to hold herself to a higher standard which makes Lincoln forbidden, as he is a player on her team and it doesn’t matter that they had a short relationship 6 years prior.
Lincoln is a protective alpha with a soft side when it comes to Jaz. He just might be one of my new favorite book boyfriends! When he sees Jaz again he knows that she is all he wants, even though he understands why it might not be the greatest idea given their current boss/employee relationship. The chemistry between these two is tangible and soon it can’t be ignored.
Their story is pretty low on the angst which I loved and does have a HEA, but there is a little bit of necessary drama that they go through to get there. Even though there were a couple of things that I wish would’ve been different (a particularly rude character who I feel gets let off easy and the way things go with Jaz’s position) I still loved this book and will be not so patiently waiting for the next book in the series!
March 6, 2021
A book about sexy hockey players? Yes please.
This steamy sports romance delivers. Jazlyn is a former Olympic hockey player who winds up being co-owner of a professional team with her brother Gordon. She runs into Lincoln a former boyfriend and current player on the team. Though wrong, they start a relationship. Between keeping that a secret and dealing with hostile employees, Jazz tries to hold it together and turn out a winning team.
But as expected everything blows up before they get their act together.
Despite the cliches. I enjoyed the book. Jazlyn and Lincoln’s chemistry was off the charts and their interactions were right on target. And the secondary characters - WHEW - can’t wait for their stories.
* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review/
This steamy sports romance delivers. Jazlyn is a former Olympic hockey player who winds up being co-owner of a professional team with her brother Gordon. She runs into Lincoln a former boyfriend and current player on the team. Though wrong, they start a relationship. Between keeping that a secret and dealing with hostile employees, Jazz tries to hold it together and turn out a winning team.
But as expected everything blows up before they get their act together.
Despite the cliches. I enjoyed the book. Jazlyn and Lincoln’s chemistry was off the charts and their interactions were right on target. And the secondary characters - WHEW - can’t wait for their stories.
* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review/
February 23, 2021
I received an arc of forbidden devil, and holy hotness! If this trope wasn't already up there with my favourite things then this would have been the one to convert me! What a flippin book! Having to refrain from swearing in my post read excitement! I saved all the foul language for Melissa when I spammed her with messages as I was reading!
From the blurb we know that siblings Gordon and Jazz unexpectedly inherit the Nashville Devils hockey team, more unexpectedly for Jazz she, quite literally, collides with Lincoln, the sexy AF hockey player she used to date who suddenly left 6 years ago.
The sparks between these two are just, off the charts! Initially you get the impression that they're going to keep their distance, knowing anything between them is forbidden, but good grief do things get spicy! This story embodies the aged old right person at the wrong time.
Lincoln is not your typical male lead for a sports romance, he is in the sense that he is the over 6ft, muscles for days type of insanely hot leading athlete we want, but he's not the classic cocky a-hole, he's actually beyond sweet, he's hilarious and is completely infatuated with Jazz. The way he thinks about her just melted me.
"Because whether or not she's ready to admit it, we belong together. She's mine and I'm hers." I just died all the deaths at his inner thoughts and turmoil about his feelings!
Jazz though, what a woman! She made feminist emma rear her head a few times! She's such a strong female lead, thrown into a male dominated line of work, where her gender was not taken too kindly to, not only does she totally boss it, and does so wearing killer heels and tight skirts, she maintains her ferocity and determination and girls, we are here for it!
Also the secondary characters were amazing! I've got such a soft spot for the other guys, Tag, Foster and Gordon. Tag especially, I always love the playful idiot of the group. He is Lincoln's best friend and although he is the childish one, he was also the voice of reason which made me love him all the more!
I loved it all, every aspect, the steam, their inner thoughts that cracked me up, Lincoln's dirty talk, the hilarious text message conversations, the hard-swoon moments... What I'm getting at is if you want an incredibly sexy hockey romance, (which of course you do) that's all about second chances and undeniable love, then get your preorder in now! Because this is an absolute corker and will have you weak at the knees! Melissa, girl, you absolutely nailed it!
From the blurb we know that siblings Gordon and Jazz unexpectedly inherit the Nashville Devils hockey team, more unexpectedly for Jazz she, quite literally, collides with Lincoln, the sexy AF hockey player she used to date who suddenly left 6 years ago.
The sparks between these two are just, off the charts! Initially you get the impression that they're going to keep their distance, knowing anything between them is forbidden, but good grief do things get spicy! This story embodies the aged old right person at the wrong time.
Lincoln is not your typical male lead for a sports romance, he is in the sense that he is the over 6ft, muscles for days type of insanely hot leading athlete we want, but he's not the classic cocky a-hole, he's actually beyond sweet, he's hilarious and is completely infatuated with Jazz. The way he thinks about her just melted me.
"Because whether or not she's ready to admit it, we belong together. She's mine and I'm hers." I just died all the deaths at his inner thoughts and turmoil about his feelings!
Jazz though, what a woman! She made feminist emma rear her head a few times! She's such a strong female lead, thrown into a male dominated line of work, where her gender was not taken too kindly to, not only does she totally boss it, and does so wearing killer heels and tight skirts, she maintains her ferocity and determination and girls, we are here for it!
Also the secondary characters were amazing! I've got such a soft spot for the other guys, Tag, Foster and Gordon. Tag especially, I always love the playful idiot of the group. He is Lincoln's best friend and although he is the childish one, he was also the voice of reason which made me love him all the more!
I loved it all, every aspect, the steam, their inner thoughts that cracked me up, Lincoln's dirty talk, the hilarious text message conversations, the hard-swoon moments... What I'm getting at is if you want an incredibly sexy hockey romance, (which of course you do) that's all about second chances and undeniable love, then get your preorder in now! Because this is an absolute corker and will have you weak at the knees! Melissa, girl, you absolutely nailed it!
March 9, 2021
This book gave me all the feels. There was the forbidden love, second chance romance, the excitement of sneaking around, a little temporary heartache and most of all the HEA!! Reading this book, I couldn't believe this is the author's debut book, that's how good the writing is, in my opinion. I absolutely love Jazz and Linc. The chemistry is there from the start and it only gets better. The supporting characters are great too!! Tag has some personality and I really like Foster too. When they get together, they are hilarious. I even found myself laughing in some of the scenes. If you like a really good, steamy love story, then I highly recommend this book. I couldn't put it down. I need more Jazz and Linc!!! I also cannot wait to read and learn all about the other characters - Tag (especially), Foster, Gordon, and yes, even Adam (everyone deserves love, even him lol). Go grab your copy of Forbidden Devil and enjoy the ride!! Happy reading!!
**I received this ARC for my honest review**
**I received this ARC for my honest review**
March 5, 2021
"In this moment, it doesn’t matter he’s one of my players. Doesn’t matter if we’re surrounded by the whole damn team. Doesn’t matter I can lose everything. I know I need him closer. Need to feel his lips on mine. Need him to light up my body and set it on fire in ways I haven’t felt in a very long time."
Jazz is one of the new owners of the Devils - a hockey team left by her father for her and her brother. She is being very criticized for being a woman and being in front of a male hockey team, so she's trying to be the perfect boss. But everything changes when she meets Lincoln, one of the team's player who she has a past with.
I love reading ARCs. And although they are not always 5 stars, it is a really great experience every time. I usually know nothing about the book I receive, so I just dive blindly into that world, and surprise myself with the new author.
Melissa Ivers was an awesome surprise. There's no way this was her first book ever. I really enjoy reading the "Forbidden Devil" from the first page to the last one. And okay, I'm biased to say this, because I love hockey romances too much, but this was a really good reading. Both characters were great, they had a lot of chemistry, the angst was on point...
I just can't wait to read Tag's book. I need it on my table RIGHT NOW haha
Thank you so much Melissa Ivers, for sending me the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 7, 2021
4.5 stars
Forbidden Devil is my first book by the author and its a delicious and entertaining sports romance!
When Jazlyn and Gordon inherit their Dad’s hockey team upon his passing, needless to say, Jazlyn especially has her work cut out for her. A woman, a part owner of a hockey team has ruffled some feathers of certain people. She sets out to prove them wrong. Having known and lost touch with Lincoln Dallas, Jazlyn has to also resist the temptation!
She may be his boss, but the sizzling chemistry is undeniable. Can these two put a dampener on their feelings and not give in to the forbidden?
Honestly, I really enjoyed reading this book. The characters were great, all except a few that you couldn’t help but want to punch...lol.
But what happens when the secret you are keeping is out in the world for all to see? Can they overcome this? Read it for yourself to find out!
With off the charts steamy moments, great banter and a storyline that had my attention from the beginning, I highly recommend you 1 click this book.
I definitely look forward to reading more of the authors work.
Forbidden Devil is my first book by the author and its a delicious and entertaining sports romance!
When Jazlyn and Gordon inherit their Dad’s hockey team upon his passing, needless to say, Jazlyn especially has her work cut out for her. A woman, a part owner of a hockey team has ruffled some feathers of certain people. She sets out to prove them wrong. Having known and lost touch with Lincoln Dallas, Jazlyn has to also resist the temptation!
She may be his boss, but the sizzling chemistry is undeniable. Can these two put a dampener on their feelings and not give in to the forbidden?
Honestly, I really enjoyed reading this book. The characters were great, all except a few that you couldn’t help but want to punch...lol.
But what happens when the secret you are keeping is out in the world for all to see? Can they overcome this? Read it for yourself to find out!
With off the charts steamy moments, great banter and a storyline that had my attention from the beginning, I highly recommend you 1 click this book.
I definitely look forward to reading more of the authors work.
June 18, 2021
Rating: 4.5/5.0
Ice-melting moments occur as the heat turns up in “Forbidden Devil”! Ms. Ivers shares her knowledge and love of all things hockey in this first book.
Read full review in the 2021 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Ice-melting moments occur as the heat turns up in “Forbidden Devil”! Ms. Ivers shares her knowledge and love of all things hockey in this first book.
Read full review in the 2021 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
March 27, 2021
My first Hockey read!
I just might become of Hockey fan after this read! 😜
I enjoyed this story so much!
There was so many moments were I tear up but also many that made me laugh!
Lincoln and Jazlyn are so right for each other. I love the playfulness of their characters 😍
Now to just wait for Tag’s story! 😬
And I hope there will be one for Gordon too, because what was all that about being too late now!????!!!!! What happen? So many questions!!!
I just might become of Hockey fan after this read! 😜
I enjoyed this story so much!
There was so many moments were I tear up but also many that made me laugh!
Lincoln and Jazlyn are so right for each other. I love the playfulness of their characters 😍
Now to just wait for Tag’s story! 😬
And I hope there will be one for Gordon too, because what was all that about being too late now!????!!!!! What happen? So many questions!!!
March 7, 2021
An amazingly steamy story that had my attention from beginning to end. Very descriptive and a wonderful story line. Be prepared for a roller coaster ride as you read this story. Highly recommended!
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