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Rush Hockey #1
Big Puck Energy
I played hard and lived even harder.
At least until the mayor of River’s Bend got it in her head that the hockey players carousing through her small town in Nowhere, California were unwelcome.
I couldn’t care less.
My priorities were pucks, puck bunnies, and pucking my way to the top.
Only…I underestimated the mayor and her intentions to clean up the town, the Rush, and end my streak through the town’s female population.
I underestimated that her matchmaking abilities might be on point.
I underestimated that her niece might be…
The woman who would lay claim to my heart.
At least until the mayor of River’s Bend got it in her head that the hockey players carousing through her small town in Nowhere, California were unwelcome.
I couldn’t care less.
My priorities were pucks, puck bunnies, and pucking my way to the top.
Only…I underestimated the mayor and her intentions to clean up the town, the Rush, and end my streak through the town’s female population.
I underestimated that her matchmaking abilities might be on point.
I underestimated that her niece might be…
The woman who would lay claim to my heart.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 19, 2022
565 people are currently reading
1128 people want to read
About the author
Elise Faber
161 books1,073 followersUSA Today bestselling author, Elise Faber, loves chocolate, Star Wars, and hockey (the order depending on the day and how well her team—the Sharks!—are playing). She and her husband also play as much hockey as they can squeeze into their schedules, so much so that their typical date night is spent on the ice. Elise changes her hair color more often than some people change their socks, loves sparkly things, and is the mom to two exuberant boys. She lives in Northern California. Connect with her in her Facebook group, the Fabinators or email her at elise@elisefaber.com.
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November 14, 2023He's a mess.
'Everyone in town knows where you live.” She huffed out a breath. “You’ve brought a good ninety percent of the single women here.”
Okay, maybe that was true.
Maybe it wasn’t.
Probably because the number was more like ninety-five percent.'
He meets the heroine, then later it hints he hooks up with a random, then sees the heroine again, then is in a bar with a girl on his lap.
The heroine has had her share of men, but not in a while as she's busy with her ranch.
But as the heroine feels attracted to him, even knowing he is the town man-whore she has sex with him.
DNF.
'Everyone in town knows where you live.” She huffed out a breath. “You’ve brought a good ninety percent of the single women here.”
Okay, maybe that was true.
Maybe it wasn’t.
Probably because the number was more like ninety-five percent.'
He meets the heroine, then later it hints he hooks up with a random, then sees the heroine again, then is in a bar with a girl on his lap.
The heroine has had her share of men, but not in a while as she's busy with her ranch.
But as the heroine feels attracted to him, even knowing he is the town man-whore she has sex with him.
DNF.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2022
Elise Faber
what have you done?!?! Seriously though WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?!
I'm not sure what I expected but this was not it. I was sucked into this story from the get go and if you've read it you understand and if you're still thinking let me just tell you it starts with handcuffs and naked man on Bailey porch... Intrigued yet?
This book has so many ups and downs and you won't have time to fully breathe until the end of this story because it's filled with so much emotion, past hurts and understanding between Axel and Bailey it will melt your heart.
I really REALLY invested in this and I can't wait for book 2 to come!!
I'm not sure what I expected but this was not it. I was sucked into this story from the get go and if you've read it you understand and if you're still thinking let me just tell you it starts with handcuffs and naked man on Bailey porch... Intrigued yet?
This book has so many ups and downs and you won't have time to fully breathe until the end of this story because it's filled with so much emotion, past hurts and understanding between Axel and Bailey it will melt your heart.
I really REALLY invested in this and I can't wait for book 2 to come!!
July 19, 2022
The #FunFactor with this story is very high but at the same time, the comedic banter and shenanigans had a bit too much of a #SlapStick flare for my taste. It was difficult for me to stay focused on the story because my mind just couldn’t quite relate to the circumstances that were happening, and it all just seemed so unrealistic to me that I just … I dunno, this just didn’t click with me.
However, this is just the beginning of their story, since this is a trilogy, so I’m hoping that the future books will have some different circumstances that maybe are a bit more age appropriate to our leads. This is not a terrible story, it’s just one I was not expecting, and that could be part of why I was so disjointed with it. This style is not anything like what I have read in the past by Elise but then again, it’s been a minute since I’ve read one of her stories so … *shrug*
I honestly don’t know if I will continue with this story thru two more books but we shall see when the time comes!
However, this is just the beginning of their story, since this is a trilogy, so I’m hoping that the future books will have some different circumstances that maybe are a bit more age appropriate to our leads. This is not a terrible story, it’s just one I was not expecting, and that could be part of why I was so disjointed with it. This style is not anything like what I have read in the past by Elise but then again, it’s been a minute since I’ve read one of her stories so … *shrug*
I honestly don’t know if I will continue with this story thru two more books but we shall see when the time comes!
September 19, 2022
5 stars
Really did enjoy getting to know Bailey and Axel. They are both trying to deal with issues and scars, and it is lovely seeing them work through this together.
Really did enjoy getting to know Bailey and Axel. They are both trying to deal with issues and scars, and it is lovely seeing them work through this together.
July 21, 2022
I picked up "Big Puck Energy" by Elise Faber expecting a pretty typical sports/hockey romance, but this story turned out to be anything but typical. I absolutely adored it!
I was captivated by Bailey and Axel's story from the moment they met, when Axel found himself naked, handcuffed, and staring down a shotgun on Bailey's front porch with no memory of how he'd gotten there. Bailey had been running her family's cattle ranch for nearly two years and struggling to get out of debt after her parents nearly ran it into the ground. Meanwhile, at 25, Axel was nearly too old to still have a shot at making it in the NHL, but he kept trying because he believed that hockey was the only thing he was good at. Unfortunately, he also had a talent for causing chaos and destruction in the small town of River's Bend. Town mayor (and Bailey's aunt) Billie Rose was determined to put a stop to his and his teammates' shenanigans by any means necessary.
While there were plenty of laugh-out-loud funny parts to this story, it was also surprisingly emotional at times. Axel and Bailey were both dealing with a lot of baggage from the past after being treated terribly by the people who should have loved them the most, but they slowly started to heal, in part because of their feelings for each other. I loved their chemistry and witty banter, as well as the hidden sweet side of Axel that began to emerge as the story progressed. He wanted nothing more than to protect and take care of Bailey, though it was difficult for her to accept his help.
The only thing I didn't like about this book was the cliffhanger ending, which I did not see coming. I can't wait for the next book in the series to find out what happens next! In the meantime, I highly recommend "Big Puck Energy" for all fans of contemporary/sports romance and romantic comedy.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
I was captivated by Bailey and Axel's story from the moment they met, when Axel found himself naked, handcuffed, and staring down a shotgun on Bailey's front porch with no memory of how he'd gotten there. Bailey had been running her family's cattle ranch for nearly two years and struggling to get out of debt after her parents nearly ran it into the ground. Meanwhile, at 25, Axel was nearly too old to still have a shot at making it in the NHL, but he kept trying because he believed that hockey was the only thing he was good at. Unfortunately, he also had a talent for causing chaos and destruction in the small town of River's Bend. Town mayor (and Bailey's aunt) Billie Rose was determined to put a stop to his and his teammates' shenanigans by any means necessary.
While there were plenty of laugh-out-loud funny parts to this story, it was also surprisingly emotional at times. Axel and Bailey were both dealing with a lot of baggage from the past after being treated terribly by the people who should have loved them the most, but they slowly started to heal, in part because of their feelings for each other. I loved their chemistry and witty banter, as well as the hidden sweet side of Axel that began to emerge as the story progressed. He wanted nothing more than to protect and take care of Bailey, though it was difficult for her to accept his help.
The only thing I didn't like about this book was the cliffhanger ending, which I did not see coming. I can't wait for the next book in the series to find out what happens next! In the meantime, I highly recommend "Big Puck Energy" for all fans of contemporary/sports romance and romantic comedy.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 8, 2022
Moving forward at speed!
Bailey Donovan owns and runs a ranch, she has little money and little time. When she steps out of her door one morning, she finds a naked man handcuffed to her railing. Axel Finnegan is a hockey player who likes to drink and get naked when drunk. Making the mayor of Rush's Bend angry is the wrong thing to do and as punishment she makes sure he'll remember not to make her angry. What starts as something that is confusing to them both, the chemistry between them takes over but it also seems to fix something in them. Can they find a common ground to be what the other needs? Will their respective professions keep them apart?
I loved this book and actually growled at the cliff hanger ending! I really need these two to get their HEA and I'm not sure I can be patient for book two!
Bailey Donovan owns and runs a ranch, she has little money and little time. When she steps out of her door one morning, she finds a naked man handcuffed to her railing. Axel Finnegan is a hockey player who likes to drink and get naked when drunk. Making the mayor of Rush's Bend angry is the wrong thing to do and as punishment she makes sure he'll remember not to make her angry. What starts as something that is confusing to them both, the chemistry between them takes over but it also seems to fix something in them. Can they find a common ground to be what the other needs? Will their respective professions keep them apart?
I loved this book and actually growled at the cliff hanger ending! I really need these two to get their HEA and I'm not sure I can be patient for book two!
June 4, 2023
From the beginning I was intrigued, by the middle I was hooked, and by the end I was crying for more (and thanking my lucky stars I had bought the first 4 books sight unseen. I legit scrambled after I read the last sentence. Couldn’t get to the next book fast enough.
At first I thought it was a standalone and literally said out loud, “how do you end it like this?!” And then realized the story did in fact continue and let out an audible sign of relief.
The realistic brokenness of the two of them. The believable personal trauma they both had to overcome to be together and the healing journey was something that I was able to relate to. Maybe not 100% but I feel like everyone has felt like either Bailey or Axel at some point in their life and just watching the journey from broken to seeing the light at the end of the tunnel was beautiful. The spice 🌶️ was a very nice added bonus.
At first I thought it was a standalone and literally said out loud, “how do you end it like this?!” And then realized the story did in fact continue and let out an audible sign of relief.
The realistic brokenness of the two of them. The believable personal trauma they both had to overcome to be together and the healing journey was something that I was able to relate to. Maybe not 100% but I feel like everyone has felt like either Bailey or Axel at some point in their life and just watching the journey from broken to seeing the light at the end of the tunnel was beautiful. The spice 🌶️ was a very nice added bonus.
July 10, 2022
I loved this read and honestly I even liked the cliffhanger. I love cliffhangers, it proves the author can get you wanting more. I didn’t like Axel at first but I grew to loving him! I need to know what happens next with Axel and Bailey and even more of Billie Rose. I recommend it!
July 18, 2022
Axel Finnegain is wasting his time in the minor leagues of the NHL (Rush, a farm team of Gold) and the small town of River Bend is becoming a casualty. Axel has never really had the support system needed to completely believe in his own abilities. But when he repeatedly finds himself naked and handcuffed to Bailey Donovan's front porch, things begin to change. Billie Rose, the town mayor and Bailey’s aunt, could determine the fate of not only Axel but his whole team. If that was not enough, Axel finds himself wanted more than he has ever wanted with Bailey.
Bailey is a sassy, strong, independent woman. She is not falling for Axel’s charm, at least not without some work on his end. Bailey and Axel are both tough people that have not fully dealt with the traumas of their past. As much as they are different they are alike, they have a connection that really only they can understand. As this is part of a trilogy we get to see the world building and learn the characters on a deeper level. I appreciated that we do not know either of the main characters’ full story yet. It not only adds some realism but creates anticipation.
I feel this book is a great set up for the next. Things are not resolved at all and the anxiety of not knowing how things will play out is high. However, you are left with confidence in both Axel and Bailey to deal with the future differently than they have the past. And anyone that dares to cross Billie Rose should fear for their lives. I loved the characters in this book and the chemistry that Axel and Bailey share. They both did some growing but I think the plot of the coming two books will test their strengths individually and together.
Bailey is a sassy, strong, independent woman. She is not falling for Axel’s charm, at least not without some work on his end. Bailey and Axel are both tough people that have not fully dealt with the traumas of their past. As much as they are different they are alike, they have a connection that really only they can understand. As this is part of a trilogy we get to see the world building and learn the characters on a deeper level. I appreciated that we do not know either of the main characters’ full story yet. It not only adds some realism but creates anticipation.
I feel this book is a great set up for the next. Things are not resolved at all and the anxiety of not knowing how things will play out is high. However, you are left with confidence in both Axel and Bailey to deal with the future differently than they have the past. And anyone that dares to cross Billie Rose should fear for their lives. I loved the characters in this book and the chemistry that Axel and Bailey share. They both did some growing but I think the plot of the coming two books will test their strengths individually and together.
July 17, 2022
Wow, what an amazing rollercoaster of a read!
Axel wakes up after a debauch-fest with his Rush teammates naked and handcuffed to a porch railing with a fierce woman pointing a shotgun at his assets. With splinters in his hindquarters and no shame in his au natural state he tries to charm his way out of his predicament, but finds himself in a situation where neither his charm or assets are going to save him.
Bailey is put out at having the big hockey player dropped off and handcuffed to her railing. While his package is impressive and eye catching, it’s not on her morning agenda.
These two characters are unconventional and mismatched, but somehow end up being perfect for each other. Axel has sabotaged himself with his self doubt and negative inner dialogue that have lead him to making horrible poor choices for years. Bailey has been working herself nearly 24/7 to save her grandparent’s ranch from overwhelming debt. Her past still haunts her and she is most comfortable on her ranch with minimal social interactions.
While this storyline is hilariously funny, at first Axel comes across as a complete a$$. As the story progresses, the true Axel becomes more apparent.
A few of the San Francisco Gold make some appearances in this storyline. The Rush is the minor league affiliate and Axel has bounced up and then quickly down several in his 7 year career.
I don’t want to spoil anything, but this books ends on a whopper of a cliffhanger that has me dying to get my hands on book 2! Since most Elise Faber books don’t end on a cliffhanger, I wasn’t expecting one and was left with my jaw hanging over where the story stopped.
I received a free ARC from the author and Elle Woods PR( and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review
Axel wakes up after a debauch-fest with his Rush teammates naked and handcuffed to a porch railing with a fierce woman pointing a shotgun at his assets. With splinters in his hindquarters and no shame in his au natural state he tries to charm his way out of his predicament, but finds himself in a situation where neither his charm or assets are going to save him.
Bailey is put out at having the big hockey player dropped off and handcuffed to her railing. While his package is impressive and eye catching, it’s not on her morning agenda.
These two characters are unconventional and mismatched, but somehow end up being perfect for each other. Axel has sabotaged himself with his self doubt and negative inner dialogue that have lead him to making horrible poor choices for years. Bailey has been working herself nearly 24/7 to save her grandparent’s ranch from overwhelming debt. Her past still haunts her and she is most comfortable on her ranch with minimal social interactions.
While this storyline is hilariously funny, at first Axel comes across as a complete a$$. As the story progresses, the true Axel becomes more apparent.
A few of the San Francisco Gold make some appearances in this storyline. The Rush is the minor league affiliate and Axel has bounced up and then quickly down several in his 7 year career.
I don’t want to spoil anything, but this books ends on a whopper of a cliffhanger that has me dying to get my hands on book 2! Since most Elise Faber books don’t end on a cliffhanger, I wasn’t expecting one and was left with my jaw hanging over where the story stopped.
I received a free ARC from the author and Elle Woods PR( and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review
July 19, 2022
This is the first book in a new series, and I thought it would read like the authors other hockey series, but it was so very different. It is the first book in the Rush Hockey Series, which is a AHL team that feeds into the San Franscisco Gold Hockey Team. What I really enjoyed in this book was that Brit (from the book Blocked) plays a big part in the story. What I did not like about this story is that it ends on a cliff hanger, and I cannot wait to read what happens next.
Hint: the next book comes out on September 13, 2022
This story is primarily about a hockey player, bad boy, bad news guy by the name of Axel Finnegan. He has sex with almost anyone, loves to be naked and does not have the greatest opinion of himself and loves trashing the small farming town of River Bend's bars. He is a hockey player who could be great but who is his own worst enemy.
He meets Bailey when her aunt starts handcuffing a naked Axel to her front porch. Bailey is a very hardworking rancher who runs her family ranch and has no time for the irresponsible Axel. But he is hot and so she does lust after this bad boy.
The two have a very hot and heavy relationship and she also has a terrible self-image about herself like Axel and has family issues like him. They both find something in the other and I enjoyed watching them discover each other as they fall for each other.
I enjoyed the writing, the characters and the story but I feel it's missing the end of the story and so its really hard for me to know how I feel about the way it ended. I was very caught up in the story and so the cliff hanger was a surprise and well made me feel the story was unfinished.
I received a complimentary early release copy of this e-book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Hint: the next book comes out on September 13, 2022
This story is primarily about a hockey player, bad boy, bad news guy by the name of Axel Finnegan. He has sex with almost anyone, loves to be naked and does not have the greatest opinion of himself and loves trashing the small farming town of River Bend's bars. He is a hockey player who could be great but who is his own worst enemy.
He meets Bailey when her aunt starts handcuffing a naked Axel to her front porch. Bailey is a very hardworking rancher who runs her family ranch and has no time for the irresponsible Axel. But he is hot and so she does lust after this bad boy.
The two have a very hot and heavy relationship and she also has a terrible self-image about herself like Axel and has family issues like him. They both find something in the other and I enjoyed watching them discover each other as they fall for each other.
I enjoyed the writing, the characters and the story but I feel it's missing the end of the story and so its really hard for me to know how I feel about the way it ended. I was very caught up in the story and so the cliff hanger was a surprise and well made me feel the story was unfinished.
I received a complimentary early release copy of this e-book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 20, 2022
Who doesn't love a great sports romance that is full of laughs and fun. Well. Ms. Faber delivers just that with Big Puck Energy, the story of Bailey and Axel and their unusual relationship. This story is one that will have you laughing and loving the banter between the two of them. It is also about two souls that help one another heal and grow. Ms. Faber has me loving Bailey and her sassiness but also wanting to give her a hug and tell her everything will be ok. Axel is one hot and sexy hockey player that acts like a bit of an a$$ but he changes your mind the more you read their story.
Waking up and finding a naked and sexy man handcuffed to your porch is how Bailey met Axel and this was the start of a very interesting relationship. She was determined not to give in to his charming ways and words but that didn't last long. They both have secrets that they trust one another to share with. Bailey is working herself to death running her grandparent's ranch but also trying to fix it up so it is liveable. Axel is playing in the minor leagues because of what happened in his life prior to being drafted. There is something that is hanging over him that causes him to self-doubt himself. Can they overcome everything that is holding them both back?
Ms. Faber, you had my complete attention right from the start and kept it all the way through. This is the first book in a trilogy and it does end in a cliffhanger that I did not see coming. I cannot wait to see what happens in book two.
Waking up and finding a naked and sexy man handcuffed to your porch is how Bailey met Axel and this was the start of a very interesting relationship. She was determined not to give in to his charming ways and words but that didn't last long. They both have secrets that they trust one another to share with. Bailey is working herself to death running her grandparent's ranch but also trying to fix it up so it is liveable. Axel is playing in the minor leagues because of what happened in his life prior to being drafted. There is something that is hanging over him that causes him to self-doubt himself. Can they overcome everything that is holding them both back?
Ms. Faber, you had my complete attention right from the start and kept it all the way through. This is the first book in a trilogy and it does end in a cliffhanger that I did not see coming. I cannot wait to see what happens in book two.
September 26, 2022
This story hits the road running! While both hilarious and poignant, Big Puck Energy grabs your attention from the start!
Bailey and Axel, Billie Rose (town mayor, Bailey’s aunt and…a matchmaker), Axel’s Rush hockey buddies and, well, not to give any spoilers here, other friends, make this a great story!
Bailey is a spitfire, working hard to save the farm that is her legacy from her deceased grandparents in River’s Bend, despite others’ efforts to financially ruin it or take it away from her.
Axel is an up-and-coming hockey player and captain of a minor hockey team, Rush, in the small town of River’s Bend. While the mayor, Billie Rose, knows having the Rush there benefits her town economically, she’s tired of the out of control behavior amongst the players. As their captain and chief instigator, Billie wants Axel to set a better example for his team and reign them in. Too many bar fights, damage, etc. for Billie Rose.
But…Billie Rose also sees the struggles her niece Bailey is going through to keep her farm afloat and the “all work, no play” stance Bailey has taken. Maybe Billie Rose can do a little matchmaking here…
When, thanks to Billie’s rather unconventional efforts, Axel and Bailey are thrown together, although Bailey would like to deny it, sparks fly.
Can this small town farm girl with plenty of sass and league-climbing hockey player, find happiness together?
This is a wonderful story that will keep you entertained to the very end with Bailey, Axel, Billie Rose and all of the other supporting characters!
Bailey and Axel, Billie Rose (town mayor, Bailey’s aunt and…a matchmaker), Axel’s Rush hockey buddies and, well, not to give any spoilers here, other friends, make this a great story!
Bailey is a spitfire, working hard to save the farm that is her legacy from her deceased grandparents in River’s Bend, despite others’ efforts to financially ruin it or take it away from her.
Axel is an up-and-coming hockey player and captain of a minor hockey team, Rush, in the small town of River’s Bend. While the mayor, Billie Rose, knows having the Rush there benefits her town economically, she’s tired of the out of control behavior amongst the players. As their captain and chief instigator, Billie wants Axel to set a better example for his team and reign them in. Too many bar fights, damage, etc. for Billie Rose.
But…Billie Rose also sees the struggles her niece Bailey is going through to keep her farm afloat and the “all work, no play” stance Bailey has taken. Maybe Billie Rose can do a little matchmaking here…
When, thanks to Billie’s rather unconventional efforts, Axel and Bailey are thrown together, although Bailey would like to deny it, sparks fly.
Can this small town farm girl with plenty of sass and league-climbing hockey player, find happiness together?
This is a wonderful story that will keep you entertained to the very end with Bailey, Axel, Billie Rose and all of the other supporting characters!
November 1, 2022
This is a little bit difference for Elise Faber. She dives into the world of trilogy writing with this Rush Hockey series. We get 3 books… Big Puck Energy, Filthy Puck Boy, and So Pucking Over It featuring Axel and Bailey. These two don’t have the best meeting, but move past their animosity and issues in an organic and natural way. Axel is in the minor leagues of hockey, and the Rush are local to Bailey’s home town. These players have been creating havoc on the town, and Axel has been on of the ring leaders. This series shows the growth of Axel as a person and a player. Bailey herself is a strong and independent woman who knows her worth… has grown past the traumas of her past.
I only gave this series 3.5 stars because I felt as though there was almost too much worked into this series. As you read it, the issues work and make sense, but at the same time there are a couple storylines that I feel could have been left out. There is a lot packed in, but I don’t want to give anything away because it will take away from the story as a whole.
This is a good read, and mixes the suspense elements as some of Elise’s other series as well as her Gold hockey series. Elise Faber always creates depth filled characters that are flawed, but its what they learn from those flaws that make these characters so compelling.
POV: Dual 1st Person
PoP: 33% in book one
Tropes: Hockey; Enemies to Lovers; Small Town; Reformed Playboy
Series: Rush Hockey
Type of Series: Trilogy… Must read in order
Rate: 3.5/5 Stars
Release Date: July 19, 2022; September 13, 2022; November 1, 2022
I only gave this series 3.5 stars because I felt as though there was almost too much worked into this series. As you read it, the issues work and make sense, but at the same time there are a couple storylines that I feel could have been left out. There is a lot packed in, but I don’t want to give anything away because it will take away from the story as a whole.
This is a good read, and mixes the suspense elements as some of Elise’s other series as well as her Gold hockey series. Elise Faber always creates depth filled characters that are flawed, but its what they learn from those flaws that make these characters so compelling.
POV: Dual 1st Person
PoP: 33% in book one
Tropes: Hockey; Enemies to Lovers; Small Town; Reformed Playboy
Series: Rush Hockey
Type of Series: Trilogy… Must read in order
Rate: 3.5/5 Stars
Release Date: July 19, 2022; September 13, 2022; November 1, 2022
July 15, 2022
Rush Hockey Trilogy Book 1
Axel Finnegan was Captain of the Rush hockey team which was the AHL team of the Gold Rush. He was the ringleader for all the trouble the team got into when they hit the bars in River's Bend. He only cares about drinking, puck bunnies and somewhat the hockey game itself. He's had his chance in the big league but he didn't last. So after a night at the bar he finds himself handcuffed and naked to a porch and then again same thing the next time. Both times by the mayor Billie Rose who has had enough of his garbage. The porch was on Billie's niece Bailey's ranch who was not happy with either of them and had a gun pointed to Axel. Not a great start for them.
Bailey, 25 is doing everything she can to get Russet Ranch back in the black after her parents ran it into the ground. She loved the ranch that had been her grandparents and she had some great memories but she is working nonstop and whatever money she has goes back into the ranch. She is not amused with Axel and has threatened him several times but that doesn't stop him from coming back.
There is so much more to both Axel and Bailey. They both have baggage to work through and start spending more time together and working through it and become really close. Until one night changes it and when Bailey comes home she is confronted with people from her past.
This ends on a cliffhanger of a doozy. Buckle your seat belts for the ride.
4 1/2 stars
Axel Finnegan was Captain of the Rush hockey team which was the AHL team of the Gold Rush. He was the ringleader for all the trouble the team got into when they hit the bars in River's Bend. He only cares about drinking, puck bunnies and somewhat the hockey game itself. He's had his chance in the big league but he didn't last. So after a night at the bar he finds himself handcuffed and naked to a porch and then again same thing the next time. Both times by the mayor Billie Rose who has had enough of his garbage. The porch was on Billie's niece Bailey's ranch who was not happy with either of them and had a gun pointed to Axel. Not a great start for them.
Bailey, 25 is doing everything she can to get Russet Ranch back in the black after her parents ran it into the ground. She loved the ranch that had been her grandparents and she had some great memories but she is working nonstop and whatever money she has goes back into the ranch. She is not amused with Axel and has threatened him several times but that doesn't stop him from coming back.
There is so much more to both Axel and Bailey. They both have baggage to work through and start spending more time together and working through it and become really close. Until one night changes it and when Bailey comes home she is confronted with people from her past.
This ends on a cliffhanger of a doozy. Buckle your seat belts for the ride.
4 1/2 stars
July 20, 2022
Big Puck Energy is the first book in the Rush Hockey Trilogy. It definitely ends on a cliffhanger, and I already desperately want the next one! Axel has two focuses in life - hockey and pucking around to forget everything else. But when his destructive tendencies bring on the wrath of the town mayor, a famous goalie, and the girl he can’t get out of his thoughts and dreams, Axel knows he needs to change. But will Bailey and Axel get a chance together, or will their pasts cause too many fouls?
Oh my goodness, this book was a fantastic read, full of messing up, beginning to heal, and finding the goodness not only in yourself, but in others, too. I loved Bailey and Axel together! I thought they were a dynamite couple, and once I got started in this book, I didn’t want to stop - and that ending!! Gah!! Bailey is a bit prickly at first, a bit broken on the inside still from her ex, but she’s loyal, she’s brave, she’s fiercely independent, and I really loved her character! Axel was not as easy to love in the beginning, but his vulnerabilities, his determination, and the way he wanted to face his inner demons all made me fall for him. I loved their passion, their growing connection, the ways they both wanted things to work out, but were so afraid to reach for more too quickly. There’s so much drama to unravel within these pages, so much that’s still to come, and I was on the edge of my seat as much as I was all melty and swoony! I loved this book! I need more!
Oh my goodness, this book was a fantastic read, full of messing up, beginning to heal, and finding the goodness not only in yourself, but in others, too. I loved Bailey and Axel together! I thought they were a dynamite couple, and once I got started in this book, I didn’t want to stop - and that ending!! Gah!! Bailey is a bit prickly at first, a bit broken on the inside still from her ex, but she’s loyal, she’s brave, she’s fiercely independent, and I really loved her character! Axel was not as easy to love in the beginning, but his vulnerabilities, his determination, and the way he wanted to face his inner demons all made me fall for him. I loved their passion, their growing connection, the ways they both wanted things to work out, but were so afraid to reach for more too quickly. There’s so much drama to unravel within these pages, so much that’s still to come, and I was on the edge of my seat as much as I was all melty and swoony! I loved this book! I need more!
July 19, 2022
Okay I absolutely loved this book and now I'm sad because I have to wait till September to get the next book in Bailey and Axel's story this has it all hockey,steamy scenes, crazy puck bunny's, drama funny moments and and unrepentant bad boy of a hockey player and one no nonsense strong with attitude girl one Bailey Donovan.
So Bailey and Axel Finnigan meet in a rather unusual way all because of her aunt who happens to be the town mayor one Billy Rose and she's sick and tired of the Rush ruining ever place in town with there drunken rough housing in every bar in town. And Axel is the ring leader is he a hot mess yes sexy yes but hes a major man **** well you know but there's a reason he's that way and dose he grow up in a really big way yes but first he's gotta stop ending up handcuffed in the buff on Bailey's front poarch.. Bailey is trying to bring her grandparents ranch out of bankruptcy and it's not easy she's had crap parents leaving it a mess and her ex should be locked up all this has left her prickly and independent she doesn't think having Axel naked on her porch is a good thing but eventually they see there not so opposite and there good for each other until life,hockey and the past comes back to haunt them.
I was allowed to read and advance copy and this book and this is my honest review I also own a copy as well.
So Bailey and Axel Finnigan meet in a rather unusual way all because of her aunt who happens to be the town mayor one Billy Rose and she's sick and tired of the Rush ruining ever place in town with there drunken rough housing in every bar in town. And Axel is the ring leader is he a hot mess yes sexy yes but hes a major man **** well you know but there's a reason he's that way and dose he grow up in a really big way yes but first he's gotta stop ending up handcuffed in the buff on Bailey's front poarch.. Bailey is trying to bring her grandparents ranch out of bankruptcy and it's not easy she's had crap parents leaving it a mess and her ex should be locked up all this has left her prickly and independent she doesn't think having Axel naked on her porch is a good thing but eventually they see there not so opposite and there good for each other until life,hockey and the past comes back to haunt them.
I was allowed to read and advance copy and this book and this is my honest review I also own a copy as well.
July 17, 2022
Big Puck Energy is the first book in the Rush Hockey Trilogy. It is a small town, hockey romance riddled with crazy situations, witty banter and steamy moments between Bailey and Axel, but honestly in the end it was moving towards a story of two scarred souls finding happiness and love until the past comes back to mess things up. This book ends in a cliffhanger so hold on, there is more to Bailey and Axel coming your way.
Axel Finnegan was a bit hard to warm up to since he and some of his teammates have been reeking havoc on the small town of River’s Bend. His bad behavior and womanizing ways has a lot to do with himself feeliing like a failure. But it is a special hometown, sassy woman that has him changing his ways and opening up his heart.
Bailey is strong, independent and runs Russet Ranch all by herself. She is working hard to dig herself out of the debt that her parents left her in and she is trying to preserve her grandparents legacy in a place where she holds her best memories. She also has her own past that she would like to forget. And she pretty much has until her past shows up on her doorstep.
This book left me wanting more and now I can’t wait for the rest of Axel and Baileys story!
Axel Finnegan was a bit hard to warm up to since he and some of his teammates have been reeking havoc on the small town of River’s Bend. His bad behavior and womanizing ways has a lot to do with himself feeliing like a failure. But it is a special hometown, sassy woman that has him changing his ways and opening up his heart.
Bailey is strong, independent and runs Russet Ranch all by herself. She is working hard to dig herself out of the debt that her parents left her in and she is trying to preserve her grandparents legacy in a place where she holds her best memories. She also has her own past that she would like to forget. And she pretty much has until her past shows up on her doorstep.
This book left me wanting more and now I can’t wait for the rest of Axel and Baileys story!
July 11, 2022
Bad boy hockey player, local girl who has no time for players, and amazing spice. Oh the feels!!! I love how we got to know the characters and their feelings. I was a bit worried at the beginning because I started to hate Axel, such a man whore. I was worried he would not be redeemable. But he was!!! I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book.
I would give this book a 4.5. The only reason it is not a 5 is because when it said trilogy, I thought it was a trilogy, but each book could be a stand alone. Like other books from this author. But then it ended on a cliff hanger!!! So this will be a true trilogy where it is one couple for the whole trilogy. But that is on me. And I hate cliff hangers and usually don't read them. But I am glad I did this one.
This is the first book in a series. This book can be read as a complete standalone as all information is given to you. You will still get all the heart and feels if you have never read another book by this author. However as a fan, I highly recommend the Gold Rush series (some fun Easter Eggs for readers). Enjoy!!!
I would give this book a 4.5. The only reason it is not a 5 is because when it said trilogy, I thought it was a trilogy, but each book could be a stand alone. Like other books from this author. But then it ended on a cliff hanger!!! So this will be a true trilogy where it is one couple for the whole trilogy. But that is on me. And I hate cliff hangers and usually don't read them. But I am glad I did this one.
This is the first book in a series. This book can be read as a complete standalone as all information is given to you. You will still get all the heart and feels if you have never read another book by this author. However as a fan, I highly recommend the Gold Rush series (some fun Easter Eggs for readers). Enjoy!!!
July 11, 2022
Elise Faber surges with BIG PUCK ENERGY (Rush Hockey Trilogy #1). In this story, Rush captain Axel Finnegan finds himself naked and handcuffed to a stranger’s porch with a shotgun pointing at him. Bailey could kill her aunt/mayor of River’s Bend, California, Billie Rose, for handcuffing the drunk hockey captain to her porch. Then it happens again the net night. To say the two, has a rocky start is an understatement. After they get to know each other, it turns out the two have a lot in common and amazing chemistry.
The Rush is the AHL team of Elise Faber’s Gold Hockey series. Get it Gold Rush – very clever. I Love that Brit (BLOCKED, Gold Hockey #1) played a role in this story. BIG PUCK ENERGY felt different to me then the Gold series. I had to double-check to make sure I was reading a book by Elise Faber. I enjoyed the story and writing style.
BIG PUCK ENERGY has a cliff hanger ending that has left me salivating for more. I cannot wait for the next book. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
The Rush is the AHL team of Elise Faber’s Gold Hockey series. Get it Gold Rush – very clever. I Love that Brit (BLOCKED, Gold Hockey #1) played a role in this story. BIG PUCK ENERGY felt different to me then the Gold series. I had to double-check to make sure I was reading a book by Elise Faber. I enjoyed the story and writing style.
BIG PUCK ENERGY has a cliff hanger ending that has left me salivating for more. I cannot wait for the next book. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
July 16, 2022
4.5 Stars for Big Puck Energy (Rush Hockey Trilogy #1)
Let me first point out this book does end on cliffhanger so you have been warned. I have to be honest and say I struggled relating to Axel but as his and Bailey’s journey evolved so did my love for both characters.
This man who wasn’t easy to love really showed how deep his emotions ran as I peeled back the layers and once you add in the easy to love Bailey you got a wonderful first book in a trilogy that is looking like it will be addictive. Bailey hasn’t had an easy life but from the first page you see how strong this character is as we watch her struggle to restore and run the family ranch.
The chemistry is sizzling, there are plenty of twists and turns as we get to know the hockey team trying to fit into River Bend but it was Mayor Billie Rose who really intrigued me so hopefully we get more from her in Book 2. If you love hockey and small towns this story should certainly be on your radar and I’m excited to see where we are taken next.
Let me first point out this book does end on cliffhanger so you have been warned. I have to be honest and say I struggled relating to Axel but as his and Bailey’s journey evolved so did my love for both characters.
This man who wasn’t easy to love really showed how deep his emotions ran as I peeled back the layers and once you add in the easy to love Bailey you got a wonderful first book in a trilogy that is looking like it will be addictive. Bailey hasn’t had an easy life but from the first page you see how strong this character is as we watch her struggle to restore and run the family ranch.
The chemistry is sizzling, there are plenty of twists and turns as we get to know the hockey team trying to fit into River Bend but it was Mayor Billie Rose who really intrigued me so hopefully we get more from her in Book 2. If you love hockey and small towns this story should certainly be on your radar and I’m excited to see where we are taken next.
July 17, 2022
Woo doggie, this book had me hooked from the minute Axel woke up handcuffed to the porch. Bailey is a strong woman and I need the next book to see what happens with them. Billie was a hoot and I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next.
Axel grew a ton in this one book. His reputation preceded him and he actually lived to mess up his life. His reasoning was heartbreaking but once he has some sense knocked into him (it was nice seeing Brit), he realized what he was doing and why and promptly started changing his ways. He also proved he was all in with Bailey by being there for her when she needed him.
Bailey had walls built around her due to a previous relationship. It was difficult for her to let Axel in, but she slowly realized he wasn’t her ex. She also grew a lot in this book and hope she lets Axel explain what happened. The ending of the book was heartbreaking and heart stopping. I need the next book now.
I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
Axel grew a ton in this one book. His reputation preceded him and he actually lived to mess up his life. His reasoning was heartbreaking but once he has some sense knocked into him (it was nice seeing Brit), he realized what he was doing and why and promptly started changing his ways. He also proved he was all in with Bailey by being there for her when she needed him.
Bailey had walls built around her due to a previous relationship. It was difficult for her to let Axel in, but she slowly realized he wasn’t her ex. She also grew a lot in this book and hope she lets Axel explain what happened. The ending of the book was heartbreaking and heart stopping. I need the next book now.
I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
July 18, 2022
5 ⭐️ for the story. 1 😖for the cliffhanger by the author.
This book barrels out of the gates at high speed sucking you in before you know it. The latest series, Rush, is aptly named. It is seems like it’s going to be a YA romance then you realize these characters are in their mid-twenties and have already been through so much and are genuine old souls. I am in love with both Alex and Bailey. I am not in love with Elise for the cliffhanger story. And it’s supposed to be a trilogy! 😠 I won’t get the HEA until November!!!!
Spoiler alert - don’t read further
Alex is mid-career in the hockey world at 26. He’s burning the candle at both ends in this town, behaving badly and still trying to play hockey. Until one morning he wakes up buck naked cuffed to the front porch of this farmhouse.
Bailey is just barely surviving, trying to keep the ranch afloat. Her inheritance and the source of all her good memories growing up. Walking out onto the front leading with her shotgun when she spot an unwelcome visitor curtesy of her Aunt Billy who is trying to clean up the town.
This book barrels out of the gates at high speed sucking you in before you know it. The latest series, Rush, is aptly named. It is seems like it’s going to be a YA romance then you realize these characters are in their mid-twenties and have already been through so much and are genuine old souls. I am in love with both Alex and Bailey. I am not in love with Elise for the cliffhanger story. And it’s supposed to be a trilogy! 😠 I won’t get the HEA until November!!!!
Spoiler alert - don’t read further
Alex is mid-career in the hockey world at 26. He’s burning the candle at both ends in this town, behaving badly and still trying to play hockey. Until one morning he wakes up buck naked cuffed to the front porch of this farmhouse.
Bailey is just barely surviving, trying to keep the ranch afloat. Her inheritance and the source of all her good memories growing up. Walking out onto the front leading with her shotgun when she spot an unwelcome visitor curtesy of her Aunt Billy who is trying to clean up the town.
July 18, 2022
This is the first in a new trilogy, and what an amazing beginning this is. Axel is the captain of the Rush hockey team, and he plays hard but party’s harder, and he is usually the instigator of mayhem in the town, which Billie Rose the mayor has had enough off. When Axel finds himself naked and handcuffed to a porch rail, Bailey is not amused as it is her ranch, and she points a shotgun at him. Bailey is the niece of the mayor, and she is not happy as it keeps happening, and she is not happy with the person she knows is responsible for this. Bailey is hard working and is trying to save her grandparents ranch, and she and Axel have their share of baggage. This is a well written emotionally charged story, with humor, witty banter, challenges, intrigue, drama, shenanigans, and ends in a whammy of a cliffhanger. I look forward to reading the next book in this trilogy. I highly recommend this talented authors’ work.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via Elle Woods PR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via Elle Woods PR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 19, 2022
Axel wakes after another night of drinking and finds himself handcuffed to Bailey's porch, with her standing over him with a shotgun!
Bailey is living on her grandparents ranch after buying it from her parents, after they ran it into the ground. Her aunt, Billie Ray, is the mayor of River's Bend, and the one who left Axel attached to her porch. She's quite a character with a heart of gold.
Bailey and Axel have an unusual friendship, he's always been a one night stand man, but she won't have any of it.
Although Axel acts as though he has no cares, his mother did a number on his self esteem, Bailey is trying to recover from her ex, who was a nasty piece of work.
All seems to be going well, until it isn't.
This is an amusing, heart breaking, totally engrossing read.
Totally unexpectedly, this ends in a cliffhanger, until you realise it's a trilogy!
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ah Elise what have you done?! Can't wait for the next one!
Bailey is living on her grandparents ranch after buying it from her parents, after they ran it into the ground. Her aunt, Billie Ray, is the mayor of River's Bend, and the one who left Axel attached to her porch. She's quite a character with a heart of gold.
Bailey and Axel have an unusual friendship, he's always been a one night stand man, but she won't have any of it.
Although Axel acts as though he has no cares, his mother did a number on his self esteem, Bailey is trying to recover from her ex, who was a nasty piece of work.
All seems to be going well, until it isn't.
This is an amusing, heart breaking, totally engrossing read.
Totally unexpectedly, this ends in a cliffhanger, until you realise it's a trilogy!
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ah Elise what have you done?! Can't wait for the next one!
July 21, 2022
Big Puck Energy is book one in the Rush Hockey series and is the story of small town girl Bailey Donovan and hockey player Axel Finnegan who lives in River's Bend, a small town where the Rush Hockey Team, a minor league team that feeds into the San Francisco Gold Hockey Team, plays their games. After a drunken night out with his Rush teammates, Axel wakes up naked and handcuffed to a porch railing where he wakes up to an angry Bailey pointing a shotgun at him. Town mayor Billie Rose, who is also Bailey's aunt, is determined to put a stop to his and his teammates' shenanigans by any means necessary so she handcuffs the drunk hockey captain to Bailey's porch..twice in one week. To say the two have a rocky start is an understatement, though after they get to know each other, it turns out the two have a lot in common and amazing chemistry. But will Bailey and Axel get a chance together? Can they overcome everything that is holding them both back?
The story ends on a cliff hanger, and I cannot wait to read what happens next.
The story ends on a cliff hanger, and I cannot wait to read what happens next.
July 25, 2022
I've read a few books by this author and have always enjoyed them but this book took me a while to get into. It could be the format - this is book 1 of a trilogy and is not standalone, so more time is spent setting out the story and building the characters and relationships. It could be Axel - entitled, overgrown man child who thinks he's a big fish in his small town. It could also be Bailey. I wanted to like her right from the start but she was so prickly that it was just a bit off-putting. It could also be the opening scene between Axel and Bailey. It made for a great opening image, but the logistics of getting a dead-weight-drunk naked hockey player from wherever he passed out to Bailey's ranch and handcuffed to her porch weren't explained. How did it happen and why Bailey?
By the second half I was enjoying it much more as Axel opened himself up to Bailey. By the end I really liked this couple and thought they fitted well so I'm looking forward to book 2. Overall, though I'm not a fan of cliffhanger endings so I hope this doesn't become the norm.
By the second half I was enjoying it much more as Axel opened himself up to Bailey. By the end I really liked this couple and thought they fitted well so I'm looking forward to book 2. Overall, though I'm not a fan of cliffhanger endings so I hope this doesn't become the norm.
July 12, 2022
4 star review Big Puck Energy (Rush Hockey Trilogy #1) by Elise Faber
Be prepared this book ends in a cliffhanger, so you have been warned. Set in River’s Bend with characters whose story you cannot help but fall for. I really liked Billie Rose and Bailey but I had a hard time initially relating to Axel who was a jerk
However as the story progressed Ms. Faber managed to turn my opinion around. There was so much more to the tormented man than he allows to show and we learn more about what made him the man he is.
Bailey is such a strong, determined woman working continuously to restore her family ranch; I really admired her. She has had a hard life and needs to recover from her past. Whist Billie Rose is a character that intrigues me.
The chemistry that sizzles between Axel and Bailey was intense. There were a number of twists and turns and I was surprised on a number accessions. I cannot wait to see what Ms. Faber has in store for these characters.
Be prepared this book ends in a cliffhanger, so you have been warned. Set in River’s Bend with characters whose story you cannot help but fall for. I really liked Billie Rose and Bailey but I had a hard time initially relating to Axel who was a jerk
However as the story progressed Ms. Faber managed to turn my opinion around. There was so much more to the tormented man than he allows to show and we learn more about what made him the man he is.
Bailey is such a strong, determined woman working continuously to restore her family ranch; I really admired her. She has had a hard life and needs to recover from her past. Whist Billie Rose is a character that intrigues me.
The chemistry that sizzles between Axel and Bailey was intense. There were a number of twists and turns and I was surprised on a number accessions. I cannot wait to see what Ms. Faber has in store for these characters.
July 18, 2022
Big Puck Energy is a fabulous read. You will want to read this in series order since it is a trilogy. This is book one and you are in for a treat. I love that Rush hockey is the minor league team in the Gold hockey world so we get a peek at some of our favorite Gold players. Axel is lost and shows in this one as he causes problems in the town of River Bend. You'll just giggle at his antics. Bailey is a spit fire trying to run her grandfather's ranch on her own. She doesn't have much of choice in the matter, but she does everything she can to make it survive even with a little help from her aunt Billie Rose. I love Axel and Bailey's chemistry as it starts to build with every run in they have. You will see changes in both Bailey and Axel in this one as they try to work out their relationship. This one has a little cliff hanger for Bailey and Axel that will make you want the next book as soon as possible. I cannot wait to see what happens with Bailey and Axel next.
January 26, 2024
I found it extremely hilarious with how this book started. Billie, the towns mayor, arrives at the bar after the hockey team yet again smashes the place up. So what does she do? Tie ones of them up, naked and on Bailey's porch.
Axel finds himself awake, handcuffed with a shotgun pointed at him. This is the start of Bailey's and Axels' story. 2 broked people trying to come together and work through their own stuff as well as one another's.
This was a very comedic read. The banter between the characters was definitely high. Bailey is a tough, strong female lead who runs her grandparents' rach after her parents run it into the group. Axel is a hockey player stuck in a rut, not really making it to the big leagues. I loved watching their relationship grow throughout thos book.
The main thing I didn't like about this book was the ending. It was left off on a serious cliffhanger, which had me rushing to get the next book.
Axel finds himself awake, handcuffed with a shotgun pointed at him. This is the start of Bailey's and Axels' story. 2 broked people trying to come together and work through their own stuff as well as one another's.
This was a very comedic read. The banter between the characters was definitely high. Bailey is a tough, strong female lead who runs her grandparents' rach after her parents run it into the group. Axel is a hockey player stuck in a rut, not really making it to the big leagues. I loved watching their relationship grow throughout thos book.
The main thing I didn't like about this book was the ending. It was left off on a serious cliffhanger, which had me rushing to get the next book.
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