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Vegas Venom #3
Grinder
Scarlett Stone hates me. Every time she takes the mic during her popular sports podcast, she rips me a new one.
Some would call us enemies but I make it a rule not to make a rival of a smart, sexy woman like her. If I make one single error on the ice, she calls it out in a way that both frustrates me and turns me on.
When I find out she’s been assigned to cover me on a trip to Minnesota, I ask my agent to pull strings to get someone else.
Anyone else.
Turns out, I’ll have to smile and take it. Oh and try not to make things worse, but it seems even my breathing yanks her chain. I’d give anything to know why she hates me.
It almost seems… personal.
During the award ceremony, a huge storm hits the area. One that makes it dangerous to be on the road so everyone has to hole away in a room for a few days. Except there’s only one room left in town.
I’m trying to be the good guy here but she’s not having any of it. She’s hell bent on making me pay. Which sucks because her attitude lights a fire inside of me.
But it’s fine. Because while she’s distracted by hating me, I’ll focus on claiming her as mine.
Some would call us enemies but I make it a rule not to make a rival of a smart, sexy woman like her. If I make one single error on the ice, she calls it out in a way that both frustrates me and turns me on.
When I find out she’s been assigned to cover me on a trip to Minnesota, I ask my agent to pull strings to get someone else.
Anyone else.
Turns out, I’ll have to smile and take it. Oh and try not to make things worse, but it seems even my breathing yanks her chain. I’d give anything to know why she hates me.
It almost seems… personal.
During the award ceremony, a huge storm hits the area. One that makes it dangerous to be on the road so everyone has to hole away in a room for a few days. Except there’s only one room left in town.
I’m trying to be the good guy here but she’s not having any of it. She’s hell bent on making me pay. Which sucks because her attitude lights a fire inside of me.
But it’s fine. Because while she’s distracted by hating me, I’ll focus on claiming her as mine.
255 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 24, 2023
186 people are currently reading
734 people want to read
About the author
Colleen Charles
153 books1,186 followersAfter 26 years in Corporate leadership at a Fortune 500, I discovered people within the organization lacked integrity. I’d always known deep in my soul that I was trying to fit a square peg in to a round hole since I’m the typical creative type. I miss my staff but I don’t miss the corporate world. It’s been said that the Universe will let you know if something isn’t right for you. The first time, it will hit you with a pebble. Then a brick. Then a boulder. Let’s just say that I got flattened. When my fifteen pound toy dog, Nigel, was threatened, I knew it was time to say goodbye.
It’s true.
Here’s what I found within the first thirty days of being free. Writing stories from my heart that readers love means more to me than working myself in to an early grave for people who only care about their bottom line.
My heart has never been more full and my soul has never been more satisfied.
I’ve never worked so hard in my life but it doesn’t even feel like work. It’s worth it. All of it. Because it’s about the joy that’s found within the journey. The highs and the lows because I get to write stories for all of you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, enjoying and recommending the stories that I write. When you share my work with others, nothing is more rewarding. Your word of mouth is my very best friend … that, and your reviews. There is nothing more important to me than all of you.
I love to hear from my readers and answer all communications personally. You can find me at:
It’s true.
Here’s what I found within the first thirty days of being free. Writing stories from my heart that readers love means more to me than working myself in to an early grave for people who only care about their bottom line.
My heart has never been more full and my soul has never been more satisfied.
I’ve never worked so hard in my life but it doesn’t even feel like work. It’s worth it. All of it. Because it’s about the joy that’s found within the journey. The highs and the lows because I get to write stories for all of you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, enjoying and recommending the stories that I write. When you share my work with others, nothing is more rewarding. Your word of mouth is my very best friend … that, and your reviews. There is nothing more important to me than all of you.
I love to hear from my readers and answer all communications personally. You can find me at:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
July 3, 2023
Scarlett & Latham
God I knew these two would be epic!! I loved Latham in the first book of the series when I first met him and heard of his rivalry with Scarlett so I was pumped for his book. It did not disappoint one bit! Scarlett is a ball buster and she absolutely despised Latham. There was so much tension when they were on their way to Minnesota that you knew it was coming to a head.
I loved the series of unfortunate events that pushed them together and got them both opening up. Not going to lie though, I hated that it also was a series of unfortunate miscommunications that kept them from their HEA until the very end. I still adored these two and their fiery spirit.
God I knew these two would be epic!! I loved Latham in the first book of the series when I first met him and heard of his rivalry with Scarlett so I was pumped for his book. It did not disappoint one bit! Scarlett is a ball buster and she absolutely despised Latham. There was so much tension when they were on their way to Minnesota that you knew it was coming to a head.
I loved the series of unfortunate events that pushed them together and got them both opening up. Not going to lie though, I hated that it also was a series of unfortunate miscommunications that kept them from their HEA until the very end. I still adored these two and their fiery spirit.
January 29, 2023
Scarlett uses her podcast to trash talk Latham Newberry every chance she gets. He has no idea why! When Latham's boss forces them together on a trip to an award ceremony, they have to confront the last four years of Scarlett trashing Latham and the fact they just might be perfect together. Can they trust each other and find a future together?
Latham is perfect. Yup. Perfect. He's great at his job, he's incredibly good looking, he's smart, he's loyal, he's funny, he's just got it all going on. Well, except for the fact that he's kind of loose in the sheets. In fact, he wins a fan choice award because everyone loves him so much! I totally understood why he was so confused about Scarlet's contempt for him. He's so perfect that I felt so sorry for him as he learned why she loathes him. It was so unfair how she treated him! I understand why Scarlet got her feelings hurt four years ago but the way she carried it around and used it to hurt Latham was more than a bit childish. In fact, she has other childish moments where she doesn't use her brain instead choosing to react instead of question what's going on around her. Do you get the feeling that I found her a touch annoying?
My problem with this book was that there was absolutely no grey space with the characters. Sure, at the end they had brought their lives together but that was inevitable since it's a romance novel. I had hoped the characters might end up having a little bit of nuance. I also had an issue with Scarlet having a sports podcast and a master's degree in journalism, but she doesn't do investigations into her topic. I am not going to give it away but there is a misunderstanding in the story that would have never happened if Scarlet was actually researching hockey for her podcast. The author was very clear that Latham didn't hide certain aspects of his life from the public even if he didn't put them front and center. Scarlet should have known.
Overall, I enjoyed this story very much. This story is a contemporary romance set in the world of the Vegas Venom hockey team but there is very little hockey in it. (Which is strange since Scarlet is a hockey/sports podcaster.) This book has some laugh out loud sections and some really touching moments. I will definitely read more from this author in the future.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Latham is perfect. Yup. Perfect. He's great at his job, he's incredibly good looking, he's smart, he's loyal, he's funny, he's just got it all going on. Well, except for the fact that he's kind of loose in the sheets. In fact, he wins a fan choice award because everyone loves him so much! I totally understood why he was so confused about Scarlet's contempt for him. He's so perfect that I felt so sorry for him as he learned why she loathes him. It was so unfair how she treated him! I understand why Scarlet got her feelings hurt four years ago but the way she carried it around and used it to hurt Latham was more than a bit childish. In fact, she has other childish moments where she doesn't use her brain instead choosing to react instead of question what's going on around her. Do you get the feeling that I found her a touch annoying?
My problem with this book was that there was absolutely no grey space with the characters. Sure, at the end they had brought their lives together but that was inevitable since it's a romance novel. I had hoped the characters might end up having a little bit of nuance. I also had an issue with Scarlet having a sports podcast and a master's degree in journalism, but she doesn't do investigations into her topic. I am not going to give it away but there is a misunderstanding in the story that would have never happened if Scarlet was actually researching hockey for her podcast. The author was very clear that Latham didn't hide certain aspects of his life from the public even if he didn't put them front and center. Scarlet should have known.
Overall, I enjoyed this story very much. This story is a contemporary romance set in the world of the Vegas Venom hockey team but there is very little hockey in it. (Which is strange since Scarlet is a hockey/sports podcaster.) This book has some laugh out loud sections and some really touching moments. I will definitely read more from this author in the future.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 21, 2023
“Grinder” is the third book in the ‘Vegas Venom’ series of sports (NHL hockey) romances. It’s an enemies-to-lovers story filled with great characters, some intense emotions, and some truly funny scenes.
Latham Newberry is a professional hockey player who puts his heart and soul into his game, something his teammates and the fans appreciate. But popular sports podcaster Scarlett Stone can never find a nice thing to say about him. In fact, she never hides her animosity toward him. It makes him crazy that he can’t figure out why she loathes him so much. I don’t want to give away the plot, but I will tell you that you’ll find out the reason for that in the very beginning of the book. Latham wins an award nobody on the team has ever received, and the team’s owner flies him into the cold Midwest to receive it - along with his nemesis, who’ll be covering him at the awards for her podcastE. The stressful situation goes in some wild directions with wildly entertaining results.
The plot kept me interested from beginning to end. The dialogue and chemistry between Latham and Scarlett are top-notch. Both characters are a good balance between entertaining and exasperating. If you’re familiar with the series at all, you’ll recognize the previous main characters appearing again in supportive roles. There are some new and fantastic secondary characters, including Latham’s sister, Scarlett’s best friend, the adorable owner of a B&B, quirky guests at the B&B, and a very sensitive Uber driver. As the main characters find their way to a happily ever after, we all get to enjoy the ride – way more than Latham and Scarlett get to enjoy their ride to the airport when they’re heading back to Vegas! I enjoyed the ending of the story and loved the epilogue. I’m looking forward to the next book in this wonderful series.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily sharing my thoughts and opinions.
Latham Newberry is a professional hockey player who puts his heart and soul into his game, something his teammates and the fans appreciate. But popular sports podcaster Scarlett Stone can never find a nice thing to say about him. In fact, she never hides her animosity toward him. It makes him crazy that he can’t figure out why she loathes him so much. I don’t want to give away the plot, but I will tell you that you’ll find out the reason for that in the very beginning of the book. Latham wins an award nobody on the team has ever received, and the team’s owner flies him into the cold Midwest to receive it - along with his nemesis, who’ll be covering him at the awards for her podcastE. The stressful situation goes in some wild directions with wildly entertaining results.
The plot kept me interested from beginning to end. The dialogue and chemistry between Latham and Scarlett are top-notch. Both characters are a good balance between entertaining and exasperating. If you’re familiar with the series at all, you’ll recognize the previous main characters appearing again in supportive roles. There are some new and fantastic secondary characters, including Latham’s sister, Scarlett’s best friend, the adorable owner of a B&B, quirky guests at the B&B, and a very sensitive Uber driver. As the main characters find their way to a happily ever after, we all get to enjoy the ride – way more than Latham and Scarlett get to enjoy their ride to the airport when they’re heading back to Vegas! I enjoyed the ending of the story and loved the epilogue. I’m looking forward to the next book in this wonderful series.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily sharing my thoughts and opinions.
January 19, 2023
Grinder by Colleen Charles is the much-anticipated third book in the Vegas Venom series about pro NHL player Latham Newberry who puts his heart and soul into his game, and sports podcaster Scarlett Stone who cannot find a nice thing to say about him. There are parts of this novel that had me in absolute stitches with loud guffaws, and other abrupt noises emanating from my smiling mouth, particularly around a piece of fruit. At other times, I had to told back tears and shake off sadness because of the circumstances that Latham and his sister were in, as well as Scarlett and the loss of her dad. Ms. Charles did a great job writing a story that was easy to read, interesting, and quite different from your run-of-the-mill sports romance because of the very first private interaction between the extraordinarily hot and sizzling Latham, and the seductive and sultry Scarlett. As you can tell, I am trying my best not to give away any of the plot because it is a kicker in more ways than one and it’s best the reader find out for themselves the joy and entertainment in reading each and every word of this one! I will say that Grinder is one of Ms. Charles’ best and most entertaining novels I have read to date; it has it all: the physical and mental attraction between Latham and Scarlett that will melt your skin and fry your mind, emotional tugging at your heart with Latham’s sincerity and Scarlett’s fear, very serious issues about debilitating concussions and unanticipated pregnancy, and enough action that you will be on the edge of your seat at times! This novel is one you MUST read NOW!!
January 20, 2023
Scarlett Stone has a successful podcast, Scarlett Says, and she's attending an event that welcomes Latham Newberry as the newly traded right-winger for the Vegas Venom. She knows he's a sight to behold, but he's even better-looking up close and personal. Latham has quite the reputation with the ladies and Scarlett knows she has to keep her distance, but what happens when she just can't resist! When she decides to go for it, Latham is willing, but a nothing burger...a blow to her self-confidence and ego. Four years later, she hasn't forgotten the slight, and her new assignment is not at all what she wanted or expected. Latham won the NHL's Fan's Choice award and Dante Giovanetti, the team's owner, is sending him to Duluth, MN to accept the award. He even lined up a podcaster to travel with him and do an exclusive interview. Oh, no, Latham knows that it's Scarlett, the podcaster who has been talking trash about him for the last year, but he has no idea what he's done. The intention is to fly in, fly out, so how difficult can it be, but you know what they say about good intentions! When a massive storm moves in, they are forced to stay at a B&B and its innkeepers, Mr. and Mrs. Anderson, who feel like their own grandpa and grandma. They are wonderful characters who made the best cookies and gave the best advice. When they find out there's only one room, Scarlett and Latham have to make the best of it and, believe me, that's exactly what they do. I absolutely adore the story, the characters and the setting. Going from enemies to lovers and more is an exciting journey and a beautiful HEA with an epilogue that had me in stitches!
January 26, 2023
Grinder is book three in Vegas Venom series. It's an enemies-to-lovers story, hate-to-love story, opposite attracts, and NHL romance. A standalone full-length romance with no cheating or cliffhanger complete with a HEA. It's smartly crafted with well developed characters and great storyline that grabs the readers attention and keeps them glued and turning the pages until the. It's humorous and filled with banter, emotions, intensity, passion, misunderstandings, and love. This is Lathan and Scarlett story. Lathan is a professional NHL hockey player of Vegas Venom. He's a great player and very family oriented. He's handsome and Scarlett Stone was very attracted to him from the first she saw him. Scarlett has a very successful podcast and a lover of sports.
She records all of the Vegas Venom games and gives the players high review. But not Lathan Newberry because he turned her down when she shoot her shot. Lathan could not understand why every time she would bash him on her podcast. Fast forward four years later he won an award and had to go out of town in Duluth MN to receive it. She would avoid Lathan but she stuck on the assignment to cover him when he went to pick up his award. There was a bad snow storm and they got snowed in. There was only one room and the enemies had to share. They talked about what happened four years prior and he apologized. The two succumb to their desire in that room and the rest was history.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
She records all of the Vegas Venom games and gives the players high review. But not Lathan Newberry because he turned her down when she shoot her shot. Lathan could not understand why every time she would bash him on her podcast. Fast forward four years later he won an award and had to go out of town in Duluth MN to receive it. She would avoid Lathan but she stuck on the assignment to cover him when he went to pick up his award. There was a bad snow storm and they got snowed in. There was only one room and the enemies had to share. They talked about what happened four years prior and he apologized. The two succumb to their desire in that room and the rest was history.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 24, 2023
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a complimentary copy. Four years ago Scarlett Stone, a podcaster for the NHL met the newest right winger, Latham Newberry at his Team party at a local hotel. There was a smoking hot connection between these two, after several hours they went upstairs to Latham's room. Things happen or did not happen and Scarlett leaves angry, disappointed and upset. The next four years Scarlett tears into Latham at every chance on her podcast, Latham has not clue why she hates him so much.
Latham ends up getting an award that he has to fly to Minnesota on the Team jet. He finds out Scarlett is going with him to cover it for her podcast and tries to give the award back. Latham finds out on the jet what happened between him and Scarlett four years ago and he is very embarrassed. Latham is a very nice guy, loves hockey, great player, loves and cares for his family so you feel bad for him and I wanted to tell Scarlett to grow up and act like an adult not a Teenager. I actually liked Scarlett but not as much as Latham.
Scarlett and Latham end up getting stuck in the same room at the B&B thanks to the sweet matchmaking owner. This forces them to address the elephant in the room and realize how much they are still attracted to each other. Scarlett and Latham are perfect for each other and I enjoyed the banter and smoking hot chemistry between these two.
Latham ends up getting an award that he has to fly to Minnesota on the Team jet. He finds out Scarlett is going with him to cover it for her podcast and tries to give the award back. Latham finds out on the jet what happened between him and Scarlett four years ago and he is very embarrassed. Latham is a very nice guy, loves hockey, great player, loves and cares for his family so you feel bad for him and I wanted to tell Scarlett to grow up and act like an adult not a Teenager. I actually liked Scarlett but not as much as Latham.
Scarlett and Latham end up getting stuck in the same room at the B&B thanks to the sweet matchmaking owner. This forces them to address the elephant in the room and realize how much they are still attracted to each other. Scarlett and Latham are perfect for each other and I enjoyed the banter and smoking hot chemistry between these two.
January 17, 2023
This was an enemies to lovers sports romantic comedy.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a laugh out loud story. Must read!
Scarlett Stone is a sports journalist and has one of the best hockey podcasts in the country Scarlett Says.
Latham Newberry is a right winger for the Vegas Venom NHL hockey team.
They met four years ago at his welcome to the team party. She never dated athletes but Latham is her exception. They try to hook up after the party but he mixed medication with adult beverages and falls asleep. She is mortified, humiliated and takes it out on him in her podcasts.
Latham has no memory of what happened that night and dreads having to fly on the team owner's jet with her to accept an award in Minnesota. They get snowed in at the awards ceremony and have to stay in a local B&B. They have a discussion about what happened at the party and he profoundly apologized. They hook up and all looks good until they have another communication issue at the airport. They finally resolve their issues and get their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a laugh out loud story. Must read!
Scarlett Stone is a sports journalist and has one of the best hockey podcasts in the country Scarlett Says.
Latham Newberry is a right winger for the Vegas Venom NHL hockey team.
They met four years ago at his welcome to the team party. She never dated athletes but Latham is her exception. They try to hook up after the party but he mixed medication with adult beverages and falls asleep. She is mortified, humiliated and takes it out on him in her podcasts.
Latham has no memory of what happened that night and dreads having to fly on the team owner's jet with her to accept an award in Minnesota. They get snowed in at the awards ceremony and have to stay in a local B&B. They have a discussion about what happened at the party and he profoundly apologized. They hook up and all looks good until they have another communication issue at the airport. They finally resolve their issues and get their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 22, 2023
I’m loving the Vegas Venom series! Each book has a it’s one special storyline. Scarlett has hated in Latham for years every chance she gets with her wildly popular Scarlett Says sports podcast. Latham has been totally clueless as to what he ever did to cause her to hate on him so much.
A Fan Favorite award and the demand he travel to Duluth MN with Scarlett has Latham willing to turn down the award to avoid the lady who scares him as much as she attracts him.
The storyline is entertaining and so enjoyable with humor, a little drama and plenty of sizzle. I was a bit frustrated with Scarlett’s quick negative assumptions about Latham and then her preference to strike out against others before they can hurt her. She’s lucky Latham is a very forgiving guy who has fallen in love with despite her claws.
The side characters in Duluth added fun and humor to the story. The Venom teammates came to Latham’s rescue to help figure out his women troubles. Marco is hilarious and Cash is an enigma, I can’t wait to read their stories in the future!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A Fan Favorite award and the demand he travel to Duluth MN with Scarlett has Latham willing to turn down the award to avoid the lady who scares him as much as she attracts him.
The storyline is entertaining and so enjoyable with humor, a little drama and plenty of sizzle. I was a bit frustrated with Scarlett’s quick negative assumptions about Latham and then her preference to strike out against others before they can hurt her. She’s lucky Latham is a very forgiving guy who has fallen in love with despite her claws.
The side characters in Duluth added fun and humor to the story. The Venom teammates came to Latham’s rescue to help figure out his women troubles. Marco is hilarious and Cash is an enigma, I can’t wait to read their stories in the future!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 9, 2023
Another Vegas Venom story and we finally get to Scarlett and Latham and why Scarlett Says he is so horrible!! We learn early on why Scarlett is so anti-Latham Newberry and constantly roasts him on her podcast. With this knowledge, we see them forced to travel to an awards show together and you know we are in for a ride!
Scarlett and Latham travel to Duluth MN for an awards presentation and in typical northern MN fashion, they are trapped in town because of a snowstorm.
A night at the B & B with one bed, a matchmaker owner and snow runoff from the roof and these two are finally going to act in their chemistry and find out how fine the line between love and hate is.
I absolutely loved these characters and how they overcome their own insecurities to see the love they have for each other.
The first epilogue from Latham made my heart happy and Scarlett’s epilogue was the perfect wrap on their love story.
Can’t wait for the next Venom player!!
Scarlett and Latham travel to Duluth MN for an awards presentation and in typical northern MN fashion, they are trapped in town because of a snowstorm.
A night at the B & B with one bed, a matchmaker owner and snow runoff from the roof and these two are finally going to act in their chemistry and find out how fine the line between love and hate is.
I absolutely loved these characters and how they overcome their own insecurities to see the love they have for each other.
The first epilogue from Latham made my heart happy and Scarlett’s epilogue was the perfect wrap on their love story.
Can’t wait for the next Venom player!!
January 13, 2023
Vegas Venom #3
Latham Newberry plays right-winger for the Vegas Venom NHL team, clocking more minutes than any other forward on his team and he's never missed a game in his entire career. He's a nice guy, cares about his family and yet in Scarlett Stone's eyes he can't do anything right. And now he finds out he's getting a Fan's Award and that she is assigned to cover it and the trip to Minnesota. Great!
Scarlett Stone has her own podcast called Scarlett Says. It's one of the breakout hockey podcasts in the nation. And of course Latham is one she regularly roasts, he can't seem to do anything right in her eyes and he has no idea why.
They are forced to travel together, get stuck in a snowstorm in MN, find a B & B with only one bed, the owner, a sweet little old lady who's a matchmaker, what could possibly go wrong or maybe right.
The epilogues were great and what an end to the story!
5 stars
The bantering between the two of them was hilarious!
Latham Newberry plays right-winger for the Vegas Venom NHL team, clocking more minutes than any other forward on his team and he's never missed a game in his entire career. He's a nice guy, cares about his family and yet in Scarlett Stone's eyes he can't do anything right. And now he finds out he's getting a Fan's Award and that she is assigned to cover it and the trip to Minnesota. Great!
Scarlett Stone has her own podcast called Scarlett Says. It's one of the breakout hockey podcasts in the nation. And of course Latham is one she regularly roasts, he can't seem to do anything right in her eyes and he has no idea why.
They are forced to travel together, get stuck in a snowstorm in MN, find a B & B with only one bed, the owner, a sweet little old lady who's a matchmaker, what could possibly go wrong or maybe right.
The epilogues were great and what an end to the story!
5 stars
The bantering between the two of them was hilarious!
January 19, 2023
This is my favorite enemies to lovers sports story I have read!
Grinder is the third story in the Venom series. So, that means, we are finally getting the story behind why Scarlett Says is so harsh on Latham Newberry!
Scarlett Stone, aka Scarlett Says, has the number one sports podcast, where she literally roasts Latham any chance that she can! She avoids him like the plague, until her luck runs out when she has to cover him receiving an award in Minnesota. A freak snowstorm gives them no choice but to figure out how they became enemies, and if there is a way to change that.
Latham gets to finally find out why he has been bashed for sooooo long. He gets the chance to redeem himself when Scarlett has a mishap with some snow. He wins her over, just in time for reality to hit, and she runs away without an explanation....again. In the end, they put their past behind them, and they become the couple that everyone loves!
Grinder is the third story in the Venom series. So, that means, we are finally getting the story behind why Scarlett Says is so harsh on Latham Newberry!
Scarlett Stone, aka Scarlett Says, has the number one sports podcast, where she literally roasts Latham any chance that she can! She avoids him like the plague, until her luck runs out when she has to cover him receiving an award in Minnesota. A freak snowstorm gives them no choice but to figure out how they became enemies, and if there is a way to change that.
Latham gets to finally find out why he has been bashed for sooooo long. He gets the chance to redeem himself when Scarlett has a mishap with some snow. He wins her over, just in time for reality to hit, and she runs away without an explanation....again. In the end, they put their past behind them, and they become the couple that everyone loves!
February 2, 2023
“Something bad happened and you’re not blaming me for it?”
I’ve made no secret about how much I love this series and this book just keeps that belief going. I knew Latham’s story would be fantastic and it was. It was also more amusing than either of the first two books. First you have their inglorious meet-cute which is extremely unexpected, especially in a romance novel where the hero is a known player. Then the hate fest, at least on Scarlett’s part begins. I love a good enemies to lovers story and I have to admit, I wondered if they could ever be anything but. It was sure a blast reading along although I did get kind of annoyed with how Scarlett was so quick to jump to the wrong conclusion about him. I loved Latham though and was surprised how much. I think he’s probably my Vegas Venom favorite now. Can’t wait for Marco’s book next. He’s so adorable I can hardly stand it.
I’ve made no secret about how much I love this series and this book just keeps that belief going. I knew Latham’s story would be fantastic and it was. It was also more amusing than either of the first two books. First you have their inglorious meet-cute which is extremely unexpected, especially in a romance novel where the hero is a known player. Then the hate fest, at least on Scarlett’s part begins. I love a good enemies to lovers story and I have to admit, I wondered if they could ever be anything but. It was sure a blast reading along although I did get kind of annoyed with how Scarlett was so quick to jump to the wrong conclusion about him. I loved Latham though and was surprised how much. I think he’s probably my Vegas Venom favorite now. Can’t wait for Marco’s book next. He’s so adorable I can hardly stand it.
January 20, 2023
Not as funny as the other books in the series, but still funny. A failed one night stand between Scarlett and Latham makes her bitter and hostile towards and about him in her podcast. Unfortunately he has no memory of the night in question so no clue why she rags on him all the time. A trip for an award gives him hope of fixing it, but it doesn’t really work until they are stuck together. I loved Mrs. Anderson. Her quiet deviousness is great. I loved when Latham called Scarlett out on her behavior and attitude—with witnesses—and she admitted her wrongs and reasons for them. Ruby is a bit over the top and I didn’t really love her.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 22, 2023
Scarlet hates Latham! She trashed his name on her podcast every chance she gets. Latham has no clue why she despises him. He forgot that they had a sexual run in a few years ago. Scarlet clearly hasn’t and won’t forget. She and Latham are traveling together for business when they get stuck out of town. They finally hash things out or so they thought. A new misunderstanding ticks Scarlet off. She eventually learns that she has misjudged Latham once again. They reconcile and begin a new adventure together. This is a good story about how close love and hate are. It’s also about family, friendship and how important communication is. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 23, 2023
Colleen Charles did a great job with this book. It's hot and steamy and OH SO FUNNY! I couldn't help myslef. Now I will have to definitely read all the other books in this series.
Scarlett's job has lead her to meet Latham Newberry, a new Vegas Venom Hockey player. But when things go wrong she thinks the worst of him. So when they are pushed together for an awards ceremony, things start to change. Though at the end, things fall apart again, so can they find their way back to each other and a happily ever after?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Scarlett's job has lead her to meet Latham Newberry, a new Vegas Venom Hockey player. But when things go wrong she thinks the worst of him. So when they are pushed together for an awards ceremony, things start to change. Though at the end, things fall apart again, so can they find their way back to each other and a happily ever after?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 9, 2023
Wow Colleen Charles has done it again, just when you think the Vegas Venom series can’t get any better, you would be wrong!
Grinder tells the story of Latham & Scarlet, it’s funny, heartwarming and sexy.
How can someone hold a grudge for so long, Scarlet has definitely perfected it where Latham is concerned, this tells their story and how Scarlet came to hate/love Latham. Fate intervenes and they are forced to spend more time together than either would have liked so does this mean that they will be able to sort their differences?
Well you will just have to read it to find out, I promise you will not be disappointed.
Grinder tells the story of Latham & Scarlet, it’s funny, heartwarming and sexy.
How can someone hold a grudge for so long, Scarlet has definitely perfected it where Latham is concerned, this tells their story and how Scarlet came to hate/love Latham. Fate intervenes and they are forced to spend more time together than either would have liked so does this mean that they will be able to sort their differences?
Well you will just have to read it to find out, I promise you will not be disappointed.
January 13, 2023
You can expect plenty of laughs, sparks and feels as Lathan and Scarlett's story plays out. I really liked Latham. He was a genuinely good guy if a bit clueless at times. As for Scarlett, I thought she was just OK. I could certainly sympathize with her, but I honestly, I just didn't like her a lot of the time. There is quite a bit of cuteness to bask in through and also some very fun moments with the secondary characters and of course delightful cameos from other players on the Vegas Venom team. I am posting an unbiased, unsolicited review.
January 25, 2023
An entertaining addition to the series.
An entertaining addition to the series! This was a fun story, Latham and Scarlett has a history that she knows more of and when they find themselves once again together it made for an enjoyable read. I love their chemistry and their many intimate moments that have different outcome. Their story wasn’t your typical romance story and I loved that about it and their HEA that I didn’t think would happen. I can’t wait for more of the Vegas Venom series.
An entertaining addition to the series! This was a fun story, Latham and Scarlett has a history that she knows more of and when they find themselves once again together it made for an enjoyable read. I love their chemistry and their many intimate moments that have different outcome. Their story wasn’t your typical romance story and I loved that about it and their HEA that I didn’t think would happen. I can’t wait for more of the Vegas Venom series.
January 31, 2023
Latham can't figure out why Scarlett hates him. She's a female sports journalist/podcaster who doesn't have kind words for him. He doesn't remember their one encounter several years ago. When he fell asleep. A business trip and a freak blizzard leave them stranded - together - with one room and one bed. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The story is interesting, the characters have amazing chemistry (even when they try to deny it), and Mrs. Anderson is a real gem. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 5, 2023
This is the third book in this fascinating series, and this is Scarlett and Latham’s story. When these two have met previously things did not go well, and now Scarlett has a popular sports podcast, and when she has to accompany Latham to Minnesota, he will do anything to get a replacement instead of her. This is a well written story which has undeniable chemistry, a love / hate scenario, humor, witty banter, truths, miscommunication, romance, and is an entertaining and steamy page turner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 5, 2023
This is Book 3 in the Vegas Venom Series by this author, and can be read as a standalone. It is an enemies to lovers romance between professional hockey player Latham and sports podcaster Scarlett. These two likeable souls and the unique plot make for an entertaining read. It is a love story filled with combustible attraction and frustrating moments, twists and turns. Overall, it has sexual tension and chemistry, drama and passion, humor and charm, engaging secondary characters, and a happy ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 7, 2023
Scarlett & Latham have such amazing chemistry, and some of the best sexy-tension building banter I've ever read. Enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, brat kink, only one bed! *swooooon*
Great cast of secondary characters, both familiar and new (especially the B&B guests and rideshare driver...they would have stolen the show if the MCs weren't so ridiculously amazing!)
This book was hot and sweet af, and a great read! Highly recommend!
I received a copy of this book for free and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Great cast of secondary characters, both familiar and new (especially the B&B guests and rideshare driver...they would have stolen the show if the MCs weren't so ridiculously amazing!)
This book was hot and sweet af, and a great read! Highly recommend!
I received a copy of this book for free and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
August 1, 2023
I enjoyed reading this book and really enjoy reading Colleen Charles books. She’s my new go to hockey romance author. Latham Newberry can’t understand why Scarlett Stone hates him and is constantly downplaying him on her hockey podcast. He is sent to Duluth Minnesota to accept a fan award. She has been asked to do a podcast on the ceremony. They are sent on a private jet arranged by the owner of the Vegas Venom. It’s on the flight where the two are finally confronted with why Scarlett has been so hateful. And so the story goes. And ends with a wonderful HEA.
September 1, 2024
3 and a bit stars
I liked the story and Scarlett and Latham, the forced proximity worked well.
But honestly I had to suspend my disbelief a lot. She's a sports journalist and she was clueless about signs of concussion or other potential health issues. And then she just picks away at him on her podcast constantly and all unjustified and no context. Yet she's a hugely popular hockey podcaster and he wins a people's choice award? That didn't make sense.
I just didn't believe that a female sports journalist would behave in this way and that if she did no one would pick her up on it.
I liked the story and Scarlett and Latham, the forced proximity worked well.
But honestly I had to suspend my disbelief a lot. She's a sports journalist and she was clueless about signs of concussion or other potential health issues. And then she just picks away at him on her podcast constantly and all unjustified and no context. Yet she's a hugely popular hockey podcaster and he wins a people's choice award? That didn't make sense.
I just didn't believe that a female sports journalist would behave in this way and that if she did no one would pick her up on it.
July 3, 2025
Lantham...what a guy!
Oh my gosh, Latham could not be more perfect. What a great guy. This story is definitely 'opposites attract'. Scarlett has been brutal toward him and he has no idea why.
Scarlett is a challenge and Latham is up for it.
One of the best lines from the book, "she looks like innocence and sin had a lpve child" is perfect to describe the way Latham sees her.
Their podcasts are sweet and funny, hysterical at times. The epilogue had me laughing with tears in my eyes. So funny. It made a great visual. I am enjoying this series. Now on to Marcus' story.
Oh my gosh, Latham could not be more perfect. What a great guy. This story is definitely 'opposites attract'. Scarlett has been brutal toward him and he has no idea why.
Scarlett is a challenge and Latham is up for it.
One of the best lines from the book, "she looks like innocence and sin had a lpve child" is perfect to describe the way Latham sees her.
Their podcasts are sweet and funny, hysterical at times. The epilogue had me laughing with tears in my eyes. So funny. It made a great visual. I am enjoying this series. Now on to Marcus' story.
January 9, 2023
If you like stories about strong, beautiful women and hot, handsome hockey players Colleen Charles has just the book for you!
The newest player for the Vegas Venom NHL team is Latham Newberry, and he just caught the eye of Scarlett Stone, the famous “all about hockey podcaster” of Scarlett Says.
But maybe that’s not a good thing!
A charming story of that fine line between live and hate!
You’re going to LOVE this book!
The newest player for the Vegas Venom NHL team is Latham Newberry, and he just caught the eye of Scarlett Stone, the famous “all about hockey podcaster” of Scarlett Says.
But maybe that’s not a good thing!
A charming story of that fine line between live and hate!
You’re going to LOVE this book!
January 23, 2023
Latham and Scarlett’s story was fantastic! It was very entertaining! Scarlett has a sports podcast that bashes Latham on the regular. She has her reasons, but Latham doesn’t know why. As the story moves on their feelings change as does their relationship. They’re perfect for each other! Grinder is very well written story with amazing characters and sizing chemistry! I can’t wait for the next Vegas Venom book!
January 24, 2023
A very entertaining story that kept my attention from start to finish. Fun with some LOL moments and a couple of tear jerker moments too. Emotional, sweet, steamy and a wonderful HEA. Latham and Scarlett have an extraordinary relationship that drives the story in some interesting directions at times a truely inspiring rivalry. It’s awesome.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 24, 2023
I actually really enjoyed the blurb and book for this which was shocking
One could say I was even kicking my feet and giggling throughout this. It was just a very typical hockey romance but I think I will definitely be reading more of what this author has to author.
Watch out Colleen Hoover, there is a new Colleen in town.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
One could say I was even kicking my feet and giggling throughout this. It was just a very typical hockey romance but I think I will definitely be reading more of what this author has to author.
Watch out Colleen Hoover, there is a new Colleen in town.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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