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Portland Icehawks #2
Defending
Much to my utter dismay, the Portland Icehawks chose me in the expansion draft, and now my estranged father is my hockey coach. No one on the team knows he's my dad. They think he’s a distant relative I don't get along with. They’re right about that last part. We hate each other. He blames me for the death of my sister, and I blame myself, too. He's unfairly targeted me, and his constant criticism is destroying my confidence and my game.
The only thing I look forward to is my time working with the homeless, especially one feisty, attractive female, but neither of us do relationships because those require trust and commitment, and we're too scarred to take the risk.
Can we conquer our demons so I can rescue her from the streets, and she can rescue me from my past before we're beyond saving?
The only thing I look forward to is my time working with the homeless, especially one feisty, attractive female, but neither of us do relationships because those require trust and commitment, and we're too scarred to take the risk.
Can we conquer our demons so I can rescue her from the streets, and she can rescue me from my past before we're beyond saving?
200 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 24, 2023
65 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Jami Davenport
99 books1,171 followersSubscribe to my newsletter to receive a free novel and be notified of new releases, special sales, and contests: https://geni.us/JamiDavenportNews
USA Today bestselling author Jami Davenport writes sexy contemporary, new adult, and sports romances, including Gone Missing, Seattle Sockeyes, and The Scoring Series.
Jami lives on a small farm near Puget Sound with her Army Ranger-turned-plumber husband, a Newfoundland drool monster, and a prince disguised as an orange tabby cat.
Jami worked in IT for years and is also a former high school business teacher but recently achieved a life-long dream of being a full-time author. A horse lover since birth, Jami showed dressage horses for over thirty years. Now she gardens and goes glamping, along with other travelling adventures. She's a lifetime Seahawks and Mariners fan, and has season tickets to the Seattle Kraken hockey team. She still misses her SuperSonics.
An avid boater, Jami has spent countless hours in the San Juan Islands, a common setting in her books. In her opinion, it's the most beautiful place on earth.
USA Today bestselling author Jami Davenport writes sexy contemporary, new adult, and sports romances, including Gone Missing, Seattle Sockeyes, and The Scoring Series.
Jami lives on a small farm near Puget Sound with her Army Ranger-turned-plumber husband, a Newfoundland drool monster, and a prince disguised as an orange tabby cat.
Jami worked in IT for years and is also a former high school business teacher but recently achieved a life-long dream of being a full-time author. A horse lover since birth, Jami showed dressage horses for over thirty years. Now she gardens and goes glamping, along with other travelling adventures. She's a lifetime Seahawks and Mariners fan, and has season tickets to the Seattle Kraken hockey team. She still misses her SuperSonics.
An avid boater, Jami has spent countless hours in the San Juan Islands, a common setting in her books. In her opinion, it's the most beautiful place on earth.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
January 28, 2023
Defending was an emotional, heartfelt story.
The mystery crime underplot takes this book on anather level of suspense that grips you from start to end.
Grady Jefferson is the Portland Icehawks rookie, the team hasn't found the best blending, and his friction with his estranged father, who is his new coach, doesn't help his career. Fortunately he finds some comfort with Aspen Bedford, an artist wannabe who makes two jobs to keep afloat. Will they make some space for each other in their lonely dark worlds?
Grady and Aspen are really alike, but while Grady recognised immediatly in Aspen his perfect match and he began to court her, for Aspen was a little harder to trust her unexpected strong feelings towards him. Their backstories tugged at my heartstrings, I just wanted to help them to find some peace.
I'm so biased when it comes to Jami Davenport works, she really knows how to write a sports romance where the sport is well depicted and it works perfectly with the story.
You don't want to miss out this book.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
January 12, 2023
Grady is a rookie hockey player drafted by the Portland Icehawks. He’s exited to be playing pro hockey, however, just one problem his coach is his estranged father. Grady meets Aspen when he’s on his way to do some volunteering, instantly, there is an attraction between them, although they don’t act on it. Grady is also keeping buried a very sad secret, one which he blames himself for and one that is the reason for the estrangement between him and his father. The relationship between Grady and Aspen blossoms and although they have a few ups and downs, they find their way. A lovely story that l really enjoyed.
I received an ARC in return for a review.
I received an ARC in return for a review.
January 25, 2023
Defending, book two in the Portland Icehawks series is a perfect blend of hockey, romance and suspense as Grady and Aspen deal with heartbreaking losses from their pasts. Yes, they are drawn to one another and have chemistry but they are also both kindred spirits who understand what empty places those loses leave behind. Aspen has dedicated her life to find out what happened to her mother to the point of financial ruin and now she is working hard to dig herself out and still solve the mystery of her mother’s disappearance. Grady is trying to find his place on this new team and also work through the broken relationship with his father who is now also his coach.
I really enjoyed this book and I think the backstory for both these characters made this story even more interesting. However, even though Grady and Aspen’s story had a happily ever after, there were a few items unresolved in the overall storyline and I hope that the loose ends will be tied up as the series continues.
I really enjoyed this book and I think the backstory for both these characters made this story even more interesting. However, even though Grady and Aspen’s story had a happily ever after, there were a few items unresolved in the overall storyline and I hope that the loose ends will be tied up as the series continues.
January 9, 2023
He’s a rookie defenseman on the expansion NHL team, the Portland Icehawks. Finally playing in the big leagues is a dream come true; until it isn’t! Grady’s estranged dad is his coach! But Grady meets Aspen, a beautiful artist in the area and she changes his whole outlook!
Another instant hit by Jami Davenport that includes hot hockey players, beautiful women, and some serious steam.
A MUST READ!
Another instant hit by Jami Davenport that includes hot hockey players, beautiful women, and some serious steam.
A MUST READ!
January 27, 2023
It's been a while since I've read hockey romance, but when given the opportunity to read and review Defending, I jumped at the chance.
Grady is a young hockey player whose past and insecurities make him question everything- his coach's motives, his teammate's behavior, and even his own ability. It's only when he meets Aspen that things start to make sense--but she has insecurities of her own.
I liked the way this story tied in and overlapped with book 1 of the series, Rebounding. The characters from both books are easy to relate to because of the doubts they have in their personal lives as well as their careers.
I am a huge Jami Davenport fan, and I strongly recommend this book to those who love romance, whether or not they have a strong knowledge of hockey.
Grady is a young hockey player whose past and insecurities make him question everything- his coach's motives, his teammate's behavior, and even his own ability. It's only when he meets Aspen that things start to make sense--but she has insecurities of her own.
I liked the way this story tied in and overlapped with book 1 of the series, Rebounding. The characters from both books are easy to relate to because of the doubts they have in their personal lives as well as their careers.
I am a huge Jami Davenport fan, and I strongly recommend this book to those who love romance, whether or not they have a strong knowledge of hockey.
January 26, 2023
Defending was the second book in the Portland Icehawks series by Jami Davenport. It could be read as a stand-alone, but much better read in order.
I’ve taken a break from formal reviews for a while, but a couple quick thoughts: I read this book in one sitting with the suspenseful plot as my favorite part of the read. I enjoyed the characters too, but the storyline was emotional and riveting. Some parts of the plot came to a conclusion, but other parts were left wide open and I can’t wait to finish the story (or at least progress further) in Roughing, Briggs and Michella’s story.
I’ve taken a break from formal reviews for a while, but a couple quick thoughts: I read this book in one sitting with the suspenseful plot as my favorite part of the read. I enjoyed the characters too, but the storyline was emotional and riveting. Some parts of the plot came to a conclusion, but other parts were left wide open and I can’t wait to finish the story (or at least progress further) in Roughing, Briggs and Michella’s story.
January 13, 2023
A sports romance with intensity and grit to go along with the romance.
Aspen dropped out of college in Seattle to look for her missing Mom in Portland. Two years later she still doesn’t have answers and she’s paying rent to sleep on someone’s couch. She runs into Grady, a rookie hockey player while he is volunteering at an artist cooperative for the homeless.
Grady is more than a little disgruntled he was left exposed by his team to the expansion draft. Picked up by the Portland IceHawks and coached by his estranged father who hates him.
Grady and Aspen have a tragic connection with missing loved ones. An instant attraction is left simmering until he convinces her to give him a chance.
The story is gritty with creepy men lurking around, several women who go missing, and tension in the locker room and on the ice for Grady and his teammates as they suffer many more losses than wins.
The relationship between Aspen and Grady is pretty emotionally intense as both are dealing with no news on their missing loved ones; the impact Grady’s estrangement with his father has in his performance and his chances with the IceHawks, along with Grady’s pairing with a negative veteran defenseman who is killing his confidence as a player with constant criticism.
The storyline is extremely interesting, and very fast-paced you will be kept glued to the page.
I received a free ARC from the author and Elle Woods PR; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
The story ends with Aspen and Grady at a happy point in their relationship, but there isn’t any answers about the women who are missing. This is a storyline that will apparently carry through future books.
Aspen dropped out of college in Seattle to look for her missing Mom in Portland. Two years later she still doesn’t have answers and she’s paying rent to sleep on someone’s couch. She runs into Grady, a rookie hockey player while he is volunteering at an artist cooperative for the homeless.
Grady is more than a little disgruntled he was left exposed by his team to the expansion draft. Picked up by the Portland IceHawks and coached by his estranged father who hates him.
Grady and Aspen have a tragic connection with missing loved ones. An instant attraction is left simmering until he convinces her to give him a chance.
The story is gritty with creepy men lurking around, several women who go missing, and tension in the locker room and on the ice for Grady and his teammates as they suffer many more losses than wins.
The relationship between Aspen and Grady is pretty emotionally intense as both are dealing with no news on their missing loved ones; the impact Grady’s estrangement with his father has in his performance and his chances with the IceHawks, along with Grady’s pairing with a negative veteran defenseman who is killing his confidence as a player with constant criticism.
The storyline is extremely interesting, and very fast-paced you will be kept glued to the page.
I received a free ARC from the author and Elle Woods PR; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
The story ends with Aspen and Grady at a happy point in their relationship, but there isn’t any answers about the women who are missing. This is a storyline that will apparently carry through future books.
January 18, 2023
Defending is part of the Portland Icehawks series and it is a fantastic addition to the series.
Grady is a professional hockey player and has been chosen in the expansion draft by the new team the Portland Icehawks. While many might not like being drafted by an expansion team, that had nothing to do with it for Grady, he's fine with that. The biggest issue for him is that the head coach is his estranged father.
Aspen's mother went missing two years ago and she dropped out of college to search for her. She came to Portland and is now trying to make ends meet working multiple jobs and still trying to get her dream of her art off the ground as well. She doesn't have a home, so she sleeps on the couch of one of the guys she knows from the art cooperative she paints at.
Aspen and Grady meet at the art cooperative and sadly they have a connection due to the missing people in their lives. Their connection is instantaneous and Grady begs Aspen to give him a chance. She says yes, but grudgingly so. There is quite a bit happening in the book with the missing persons and the tensions on the hockey team.
This is one of the faster paced books that Davenport has written in some time. I was engaged from the outset and I enjoyed how the story unfolded. I do hope that we get more in the next book however, otherwise I will feel like there was parts of this story that were left undone.
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
Grady is a professional hockey player and has been chosen in the expansion draft by the new team the Portland Icehawks. While many might not like being drafted by an expansion team, that had nothing to do with it for Grady, he's fine with that. The biggest issue for him is that the head coach is his estranged father.
Aspen's mother went missing two years ago and she dropped out of college to search for her. She came to Portland and is now trying to make ends meet working multiple jobs and still trying to get her dream of her art off the ground as well. She doesn't have a home, so she sleeps on the couch of one of the guys she knows from the art cooperative she paints at.
Aspen and Grady meet at the art cooperative and sadly they have a connection due to the missing people in their lives. Their connection is instantaneous and Grady begs Aspen to give him a chance. She says yes, but grudgingly so. There is quite a bit happening in the book with the missing persons and the tensions on the hockey team.
This is one of the faster paced books that Davenport has written in some time. I was engaged from the outset and I enjoyed how the story unfolded. I do hope that we get more in the next book however, otherwise I will feel like there was parts of this story that were left undone.
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
January 22, 2023
Great story that had not only romance and hockey, but also mystery! I loved it!! 5 hockey stars for this one!
Aspen has been searching for her mom that went missing, and spent every dime she had while doing it. Now she's sleeping on a friends couch and working at a bar just to say afloat, while also helping out at her friends art studio. After all that is what she was studying and hoping to do for work until her mom went missing. While there she meets a hot hockey player, Grady, who's taken to protecting her, considering he saved her when they first met.
Grady is not happy, having been chosen in the expansion draft by the team his estranged father is the coach of. It's the last thing he want's to do is play for him, he'd rather be sent back down to the minors. While heading for a team even helping out at this art center, in not the greatest part of town, he finds a woman, Aspen, in desperate need of help, and he steps in and saves her. When he shows up at the event and sees the very woman he helped, he immediately feels a bond with her, now if only he can convince her he's worth letting her walls down for!
These two share an unfortunate thing in common, but their relationship is truly meant to be! Their story was beautifully written by Jami, and I can't wait for more in this series! Don't miss out on this one, grab it asap!
Aspen has been searching for her mom that went missing, and spent every dime she had while doing it. Now she's sleeping on a friends couch and working at a bar just to say afloat, while also helping out at her friends art studio. After all that is what she was studying and hoping to do for work until her mom went missing. While there she meets a hot hockey player, Grady, who's taken to protecting her, considering he saved her when they first met.
Grady is not happy, having been chosen in the expansion draft by the team his estranged father is the coach of. It's the last thing he want's to do is play for him, he'd rather be sent back down to the minors. While heading for a team even helping out at this art center, in not the greatest part of town, he finds a woman, Aspen, in desperate need of help, and he steps in and saves her. When he shows up at the event and sees the very woman he helped, he immediately feels a bond with her, now if only he can convince her he's worth letting her walls down for!
These two share an unfortunate thing in common, but their relationship is truly meant to be! Their story was beautifully written by Jami, and I can't wait for more in this series! Don't miss out on this one, grab it asap!
January 15, 2023
This is a well written book. I know that I had all kinds of emotions floating around in me when I read it, which to me is a sign of a good author. The subject is depressing at times, but shows the real world. I loved how Grady was such a good person wanting to help anyone he could, especially Aspen. His back story was sad as he felt guilty for his sister’s disappearance, and at the time his dad blamed him. Needless to say the two did not have a good relationship. Grady was shocked when he went to the Portland team for hockey and found out his father was the coach. He is a loyal person and even though he was paired up with a seasoned player Briggs. Unfortunately Briggs had a chip on his shoulder and was horrible to Grady, but Grady stuck up for him.
Grady was attracted to Aspen as soon as he saw her. My heart went out to her too, as her mother had gone missing and Aspen had been looking for her with no results except for having no money now. Grady and Aspen were good for each other. They had to go through some trying times which helped their bond become stronger. I strongly encourage you to read the book. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
Grady was attracted to Aspen as soon as he saw her. My heart went out to her too, as her mother had gone missing and Aspen had been looking for her with no results except for having no money now. Grady and Aspen were good for each other. They had to go through some trying times which helped their bond become stronger. I strongly encourage you to read the book. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
January 17, 2023
5 Star Review of Defending (Portland Icehawks #2) by Jami Davenport
This is the second book in the latest series from Jami Davenport and was a great addition to the series. When Grady is chosen in the expansion draft to be the latest member of the Portland Icehawks he is unhappy; his father who he has nothing to do with, is now his new coach.
No one knows of their close relationship, they think they are distant relatives and that’s how Grady wants to keep it. However with his father constantly criticizing his play, he soon finds himself doubting himself and his position on the team.
I really liked Grady and felt for him as he struggled with guilt over the death of his sister. Meeting Aspen, an artist is one of the bright spots that has happened recently, along with his work with the homeless.
Neither of them is looking for a relationship, in fact it’s the last thing either of them need however sometimes fate puts a person in your life for a reason. I was quickly drawn into Grady and Aspen’s story. It touched on a number of harsh realities in life and those were handled with dignity,
Defending is a story of courage, of love and hope and of overcoming the challenges that life often throws in your path. It was well written and I look forward to reading more in the series.
This is the second book in the latest series from Jami Davenport and was a great addition to the series. When Grady is chosen in the expansion draft to be the latest member of the Portland Icehawks he is unhappy; his father who he has nothing to do with, is now his new coach.
No one knows of their close relationship, they think they are distant relatives and that’s how Grady wants to keep it. However with his father constantly criticizing his play, he soon finds himself doubting himself and his position on the team.
I really liked Grady and felt for him as he struggled with guilt over the death of his sister. Meeting Aspen, an artist is one of the bright spots that has happened recently, along with his work with the homeless.
Neither of them is looking for a relationship, in fact it’s the last thing either of them need however sometimes fate puts a person in your life for a reason. I was quickly drawn into Grady and Aspen’s story. It touched on a number of harsh realities in life and those were handled with dignity,
Defending is a story of courage, of love and hope and of overcoming the challenges that life often throws in your path. It was well written and I look forward to reading more in the series.
January 9, 2023
Book two in The Portland IceHawks series is Grady & Aspen’s story and what a story they have. Two people who have met by fate but in so many ways have lived so many of the same experiences.
Aspen is a young woman who has gotten down on life but she will do whatever it takes to get back on her feet and live out her dream of becoming an artist. She knows that life isn’t always easy but when she meets Grady she exactly sees that life moves on and she can be happy again.
Grady is a rookie NHL player who wants to prove to everyone that he is worth being on this team, but when a curveball is thrown his way he will prove that nothing will get in his way. Meeting Aspen has been the best thing that has happened to him and he knows that there was a reason for them to have met.
Watching this young couple overcome some hard realities of their lives is such a heartwarming feeling and knowing that they will navigate it together is great to see.
Aspen is a young woman who has gotten down on life but she will do whatever it takes to get back on her feet and live out her dream of becoming an artist. She knows that life isn’t always easy but when she meets Grady she exactly sees that life moves on and she can be happy again.
Grady is a rookie NHL player who wants to prove to everyone that he is worth being on this team, but when a curveball is thrown his way he will prove that nothing will get in his way. Meeting Aspen has been the best thing that has happened to him and he knows that there was a reason for them to have met.
Watching this young couple overcome some hard realities of their lives is such a heartwarming feeling and knowing that they will navigate it together is great to see.
January 18, 2023
“Defending” is a sweet, heartfelt and romantic hockey romance that I devoured in just a couple hours.
Grady is a rookie in the NHL and was drafted in the expansion draft to the Icehawks. While he’s trying to find his place on the team, he meets Aspen. A local artist who moved to Portland to find her mother who went missing. There’s an instant connection between them but Aspen is hesitant at first while Grady is ready to go all in.
I loved Grady and Aspen so much. Grady was an instant favorite for me from the beginning. He’s a good friend, teammate and truly cares about helping people. I loved his protectiveness and how gentle he was with Aspen. Aspen was in a tough spot looking for her mom and Grady was the added strength to help her. Their connection was instant and I could feel it as I read their story. We get lots of scenes with the other Icehawks and I can’t wait to read their stories. The tease for Briggs’ story has me counting the days until it’s released.
Grady is a rookie in the NHL and was drafted in the expansion draft to the Icehawks. While he’s trying to find his place on the team, he meets Aspen. A local artist who moved to Portland to find her mother who went missing. There’s an instant connection between them but Aspen is hesitant at first while Grady is ready to go all in.
I loved Grady and Aspen so much. Grady was an instant favorite for me from the beginning. He’s a good friend, teammate and truly cares about helping people. I loved his protectiveness and how gentle he was with Aspen. Aspen was in a tough spot looking for her mom and Grady was the added strength to help her. Their connection was instant and I could feel it as I read their story. We get lots of scenes with the other Icehawks and I can’t wait to read their stories. The tease for Briggs’ story has me counting the days until it’s released.
January 23, 2023
This is the second book in this series, and this is Grady and Aspen’s journey. Grady has his dream come true when he is chosen to be the new rookie for an NHL team, only downside is that his estranged father, who hates him, is the teams coach. Aspen is an artist who is working two jobs to make end meet, and when she crosses paths with Grady when he is volunteering, there is an instant connection between these kindred spirits. This is a beautifully written story which is an emotional roller coaster, with family, trust, suspense, secrets, tension, tragedy, and love, which leads to a steamy and heartfelt story which pulls at the heartstrings throughout.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
January 24, 2023
Portland Icehawks #2
Grady is a rookie that's been drafted to the Portland Icehawks in an expansion draft. What should be a great time getting the chance to play in the big leagues isn't so great when you know the Coach is his estranged dad. He feels his dad is picking on him because of something in their past and that they haven't talked in ages instead of looking at it as if it's his coach. He hasn't said anything to the rest of his teammates other than being distant relatives. While going to do some volunteer work he runs into a young woman named Aspen Bedford.
Aspen wanted to be an artist and was on her way until her mom went missing. She dropped out of college and moved to Portland to search for her and now she has used all her funds in finding her. She doesn't really have a place to call her own, living on a couch at a friend's house and working two jobs just to survive. She meets Grady when he comes to her rescue and realizes they are going to the same place. He is smitten. They end up spending time together and realize they have things in common most people don't. Their relationship is very emotional with lots going on but she is good for him and he feels she is the one.
4.5 stars
There are still a lot of unanswered questions. I'm hoping those will be answered in later books in the series. Really looking forward to Briggs' story.
Grady is a rookie that's been drafted to the Portland Icehawks in an expansion draft. What should be a great time getting the chance to play in the big leagues isn't so great when you know the Coach is his estranged dad. He feels his dad is picking on him because of something in their past and that they haven't talked in ages instead of looking at it as if it's his coach. He hasn't said anything to the rest of his teammates other than being distant relatives. While going to do some volunteer work he runs into a young woman named Aspen Bedford.
Aspen wanted to be an artist and was on her way until her mom went missing. She dropped out of college and moved to Portland to search for her and now she has used all her funds in finding her. She doesn't really have a place to call her own, living on a couch at a friend's house and working two jobs just to survive. She meets Grady when he comes to her rescue and realizes they are going to the same place. He is smitten. They end up spending time together and realize they have things in common most people don't. Their relationship is very emotional with lots going on but she is good for him and he feels she is the one.
4.5 stars
There are still a lot of unanswered questions. I'm hoping those will be answered in later books in the series. Really looking forward to Briggs' story.
January 18, 2023
I absolutely loved Grady and Aspen’s story! Both of them are dealing with missing loved ones. Grady’s dealing with being on the Portland Icehawks hockey team coached by his estranged father. Grady and Aspen have an unusually tragic connection that draws them together. Their relationship is emotional and intense as they deal Aspen’s missing mother and Grady’s missing sister. Defending is a fast paced, well written story that will keep you glued to the story until the end! I couldn’t put it down! I can’t wait for Roughing, the next book in the Portland Icehawks series!
January 23, 2023
This is book #2 in the Portland Icehawks Series and is Grady and Aspen’s story. Grady is the new rookie for the Icehawks and even though it’s his dream, his estranged father being his coach is causing him extra pressure and doubting his place. While trying to find his footing and place on the team he meets Aspen. Aspen wanted to be an artist until her mom went missing, then she moved to Portland and has been searching for her ever since. Grady and Aspen’s story will definitely tug at your heartstrings and I enjoyed every single page of it. Highly recommend.
January 17, 2023
There's just so much heart in Grady and Aspen's story. Be prepared for the workout your heart is going to get because the emotions run thick, and the feels are INTENSE. I've got to be honest; I don't know which one of these characters my heart ached for more. A definite heart tugger that hit me very hard, but I loved every second of it. This is my unbiased, unsolicited review.
January 10, 2023
Emotion comes at you fast and smothers you with heart. From heartache to temptation, Defending is an uphill battle. A battle of hearts, a battle of egos and battle of acceptance. Grady and Aspen turn beautifully broken into an irresistible addiction.
January 16, 2023
Hockey player with estranged coach dad, trust issues, family trauma, emotional with HOT spice!
This is not the first book in the series, but it can be read as a complete stand alone. You will just know more about the secondary characters, but everything you need to know will be given to you.
This is not the first book in the series, but it can be read as a complete stand alone. You will just know more about the secondary characters, but everything you need to know will be given to you.
January 24, 2023
the second book in the Portland Icehawks series. This is about Grady who is a new recruit to the team and his estranged father is the head coach. There are hurt feelings between these two and lots to work on Grady meets Aspen and falls for her quickly. Aspen is a bit more hesitant as her past rules a lot of her life. Until they get to know each other better and realize they have so much more in common than one would think! Cute Hockey romance!
January 24, 2023
Grady and Aspen have one thing in common. The loss of a loved one. Also much to his dismay his dad is now his head coach on the hockey team he got traded too. They finally were able to I want to say start to mend their relationship. It’s a start to a feel good after the bad happened for them.
January 28, 2023
Grady is a professional hockey player who was picked up in the expansion draft by the Portland Icehawks. Grady isn't happy about being on the Portland hockey team and having to deal with his estranged father, the head coach. Grady aligns himself with his defensive partner against his father and the veteran players trying to gel the players into a team. Aspen came to Portland two years ago when her mother went missing. Aspen dropped out of college and spent the past two years following every lead looking for her mother. Aspen works multiple jobs and sleeps on her friend's couch. Aspen dreams of making a living selling her art. Grady and Aspen meet when Grady volunteers at the art cooperative. Sparks fly between Aspen and Grady, but Aspen turns Grady down when he asks her out. Grady can't get Aspen off his mind and pursues her when he finds her bartending at a place where he and his friends hang out. Aspen and Grady are drawn by past trauma in their lives, and their relationship progresses quickly when Aspen spends the holidays with Grady and his roommates. Will Aspen overcome her fear that she won't be enough for Grady? Can Grady learn to forgive himself and his father? Will Grady and his father begin to mend their relationship? How will Aspen react when her artwork is part of a charity auction? I loved Defending by Jami Davenport. Aspen and Grady are a great couple who are first drawn together by trauma in their pasts but find they enjoy each other's company. Aspen and Grady have scorching hot chemistry. I love how Aspen and Grady's friends seem to mix seamlessly together. I would highly recommend getting Defending and the other books in the Portland Icehawks series by Jami Davenport. I received a free ARC copy of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
January 22, 2023
Grady never thought his life could get worse when his sister went missing years ago after he never picked her up on time…but it did during the expansion draft and he was picked up by the Portland Icehawks. The team his dad was the coach of. He kept it hidden, just saying they were distant relatives, when his teammates asked. But that along with guilt, struggles, doubt and his father were all leading Grady down a path he shouldn’t be on. If he wasn’t careful and get his head together, his career might be over long before it should be. Meeting Aspen and realizing he wasn’t the only one with these struggles opened up so many options for him. Now he just needed to get it all together and not lose out.
Aspen is an artist who was working towards a degree when her mother went missing in Portland 2 years ago. She then sacrificed everything to try and find her including her dreams. Right now it means sleeping on a friends couch, working two jobs and helping the homeless. All hopefully leading for clues that will bring the woman she loves back or at least know what happened. One dark night heading to help at her friends studio she runs into Grady. Never did she think that this stranger would be in a similar situation and together they can help each other overcome some of their struggles.
This is the second book of the new Portland Icehawk series by Jami Davenport and it is definitely different than others she has written. Different in a good way, not every story is suppose to be perfect, not everyone will have money, and many undergo struggles. This was one of the more realistic ones she has written and I loved it. Can’t wait to see where it is going to go from here.
Aspen is an artist who was working towards a degree when her mother went missing in Portland 2 years ago. She then sacrificed everything to try and find her including her dreams. Right now it means sleeping on a friends couch, working two jobs and helping the homeless. All hopefully leading for clues that will bring the woman she loves back or at least know what happened. One dark night heading to help at her friends studio she runs into Grady. Never did she think that this stranger would be in a similar situation and together they can help each other overcome some of their struggles.
This is the second book of the new Portland Icehawk series by Jami Davenport and it is definitely different than others she has written. Different in a good way, not every story is suppose to be perfect, not everyone will have money, and many undergo struggles. This was one of the more realistic ones she has written and I loved it. Can’t wait to see where it is going to go from here.
January 25, 2023
Grady is a hockey player who was recently selected in the expansion draft to go to the Portland Icehawks. If it wasn't bad enough going to an expansion team, it was being coached by his father. Unfortunately, Grady and his father don't speak. It seems that Grady's sister died, and Grady, as well as his father, blames Grady for the death. The only good news in this situation, is that his father and he aren't telling his teammates that they're closely related.
Aspen is a starving artist. Her mother disappeared two years ago and Aspen dropped everything and spent all her money on trying to find her mother to no avail. Now, she's sleeping on a friends couch in a less than desirable neighborhood. While trying to get to her place, she's approached by a man and luckily for her, Grady happens by and breaks up what could be something worse. Grady ends up volunteering at the space where Aspen paints (as well as sleeps). While financially their lives couldn't be more different, they are drawn together by the loss they've suffered in their lives.
This book has so much going on in it and was a wonderful read. To watch Grady and Aspen grown together and begin healing from their pain was a good thing to witness. A great addition to the Portland Icehawks. Can't wait to read more about Briggs and Michella's!
Aspen is a starving artist. Her mother disappeared two years ago and Aspen dropped everything and spent all her money on trying to find her mother to no avail. Now, she's sleeping on a friends couch in a less than desirable neighborhood. While trying to get to her place, she's approached by a man and luckily for her, Grady happens by and breaks up what could be something worse. Grady ends up volunteering at the space where Aspen paints (as well as sleeps). While financially their lives couldn't be more different, they are drawn together by the loss they've suffered in their lives.
This book has so much going on in it and was a wonderful read. To watch Grady and Aspen grown together and begin healing from their pain was a good thing to witness. A great addition to the Portland Icehawks. Can't wait to read more about Briggs and Michella's!
January 25, 2023
Where to begin? I loved this book. Jami Davenport is one of few sports romance writers where hockey is in the forefront and not merely the occupation of the character. This is the second book in the Portland Icehawks series and I recommend reading them in order.
Grady is a rookie hockey play who was drafted by the Portland Icehawks expansion team. As exciting of an opportunity as that is, Grady is keeping a secret from his team. The coincidence of the coach and Grady having the same last name isn't a coincidence at all--they are father and son who are estranged.
Aspen left Seattle for Portland 2 years ago searching for her missing mother. The cost of the search has left her homeless and sleeping on a friend's couch while she assists with an art center for the homeless. Luckily for Aspen, she has two jobs to help keep her afloat, as well as assisting with the center.
Grady and Aspen meet one day while Grady in his capacity as an Icehawk volunteers at the art center. They are instantly attracted to each other, but it takes them both time to act on it. Since they are both dealing with other concerns, the buildup to their relationship takes time, and despite a few rocky points, they end up happy.
5 out of 5 stars.
I received a free ARC from the author and Elle Woods PR; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
Grady is a rookie hockey play who was drafted by the Portland Icehawks expansion team. As exciting of an opportunity as that is, Grady is keeping a secret from his team. The coincidence of the coach and Grady having the same last name isn't a coincidence at all--they are father and son who are estranged.
Aspen left Seattle for Portland 2 years ago searching for her missing mother. The cost of the search has left her homeless and sleeping on a friend's couch while she assists with an art center for the homeless. Luckily for Aspen, she has two jobs to help keep her afloat, as well as assisting with the center.
Grady and Aspen meet one day while Grady in his capacity as an Icehawk volunteers at the art center. They are instantly attracted to each other, but it takes them both time to act on it. Since they are both dealing with other concerns, the buildup to their relationship takes time, and despite a few rocky points, they end up happy.
5 out of 5 stars.
I received a free ARC from the author and Elle Woods PR; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
January 24, 2023
I received a complimentary early release e-book prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was such a wonderful story about two very lost and lonely people who are hurting and who find each other.
Grady is a new player on the hockey team that is coached by his father. But he has a very complicated relationship with him, so much so that his connection is a big secret.
Aspen is an amazing artist who is in town and trying to find her mother who went missing. Her mother is the only family she had, and she is willing to do anything to help find her.
Grady and her bond over their missing family members. His sister went missing years ago and he has always blamed himself and believes his father blames him as well. These two form a strong bond and I enjoyed watching them fall for each other and be there for each other through all the ups and downs.
I really loved this story so much. It was a unique story within the hockey world. It does have a little bit of insta love/lust n Grady's side.
Sidenote: I wanted to find out what happened to Aspen's mom. Hopefully we will find out in another book in the series
This was such a wonderful story about two very lost and lonely people who are hurting and who find each other.
Grady is a new player on the hockey team that is coached by his father. But he has a very complicated relationship with him, so much so that his connection is a big secret.
Aspen is an amazing artist who is in town and trying to find her mother who went missing. Her mother is the only family she had, and she is willing to do anything to help find her.
Grady and her bond over their missing family members. His sister went missing years ago and he has always blamed himself and believes his father blames him as well. These two form a strong bond and I enjoyed watching them fall for each other and be there for each other through all the ups and downs.
I really loved this story so much. It was a unique story within the hockey world. It does have a little bit of insta love/lust n Grady's side.
Sidenote: I wanted to find out what happened to Aspen's mom. Hopefully we will find out in another book in the series
January 25, 2023
Grady is a rookie hockey player who has been traded in the expansion draft to the Icehawks, the team his estranged father coaches. Aspen is an artist, waitress, barista, Jackie of all trades doing everything she can to survive while looking for answers about her mother's disappearance a couple of years before. When some slimeball puts the moves on her, Grady steps up to rescue her. After a few random encounters, they start to hang out. He gets involved with her ragtag group of friends as does she with his hockey team. Eventually they discover they have a lot in common, more than they first realized. Grady is carrying a big load of guilt about a family member which is also the cause of his issues with his dad.
This was a love story with a dark background theme winding through it. I liked that Ms. Davenport didn't wrap the story up with a pretty bow and give everyone a HEA. Life doesn't work that way for most of us. Grady and Aspen have to work through their issues as a couple and apart before they can truly be together. There's a pretty good teaser about who might be the next hockey player to be featured and it looks pretty intense...
This was a love story with a dark background theme winding through it. I liked that Ms. Davenport didn't wrap the story up with a pretty bow and give everyone a HEA. Life doesn't work that way for most of us. Grady and Aspen have to work through their issues as a couple and apart before they can truly be together. There's a pretty good teaser about who might be the next hockey player to be featured and it looks pretty intense...
January 24, 2023
***** spoiler alet***** +++mildly+++Jami Davenport is one of my go to authors and has been for years since her Seattle Football books. Grady and Apsen are the hero and heroin in Defending. You will learn their heartaches and pains that bring them together. One will be solved while one will not, This is something I don’t recall Mrs Davenport ever doing before, leaving us hanging on what happened. ( I won’t finish as I don’t want to finish the spoiler ). I as a reader I found myself falling for this couple and their feels because this author has a way of doing so with her words. This is the first of a new series I believe or one of a first but can be read as a stand alone but you will want to read the other players books. Specifically grumpy Griff. I have to believe he is going to steal my heart and wish he were a real man. I was given this book a few days before release for my honest review. I have it preordered well before it was offered though so an honest review I will give because I was purchasing the regardless.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2023
Grady wasn’t thrilled to be in Portland!
Rookie hockey player Grady Jefferson wasn’t thrilled to be picked by Portland because had to play for Coach Duke Jefferson without letting the team know that the coach was his father and they didn’t get along. Grady felt that his dad was still blaming him for the night his sister disappeared and didn’t want him on the team.
Artist Aspen Bedford was just a step above being homeless while trying to find out what had happened to her missing mother. Maybe meeting Grady Jefferson while volunteering with an art charity for the homeless might help both of them while bonding on their missing family members.
Defending is a wonderful hockey romance with a major suspense streak that will hopefully answered later in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author and Elle Woods PR. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Rookie hockey player Grady Jefferson wasn’t thrilled to be picked by Portland because had to play for Coach Duke Jefferson without letting the team know that the coach was his father and they didn’t get along. Grady felt that his dad was still blaming him for the night his sister disappeared and didn’t want him on the team.
Artist Aspen Bedford was just a step above being homeless while trying to find out what had happened to her missing mother. Maybe meeting Grady Jefferson while volunteering with an art charity for the homeless might help both of them while bonding on their missing family members.
Defending is a wonderful hockey romance with a major suspense streak that will hopefully answered later in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author and Elle Woods PR. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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