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Colorado Coyotes #2
The Opponent
Ford
As the new captain of the Colorado Coyotes, there’s a heavy weight on my shoulders. The Coyotes lost five players last season to a tragic arena explosion, and as the new team leader, I want to be a rock for my teammates. That includes battling my new neighbor Eleanor Lawrence, the Denver newspaper columnist who’s on a mission to end the city’s pro hockey team for good. Do I want her? Desperately. But we’re on opposing sides of a war I don’t intend to lose.
Elle
I’m in no danger of being charmed by Ford Barrett. My new neighbor is a caveman—not remotely my type. He may be attractive, but he’s also stubborn and permanently scowling. Even worse? He dropped a couch on my foot. The more we spar, though, the hotter my secret attraction to him burns. Once I give in to the possessive hockey player, lines get blurred.
I want to win, but I also want him. And I can’t have both.
As the new captain of the Colorado Coyotes, there’s a heavy weight on my shoulders. The Coyotes lost five players last season to a tragic arena explosion, and as the new team leader, I want to be a rock for my teammates. That includes battling my new neighbor Eleanor Lawrence, the Denver newspaper columnist who’s on a mission to end the city’s pro hockey team for good. Do I want her? Desperately. But we’re on opposing sides of a war I don’t intend to lose.
Elle
I’m in no danger of being charmed by Ford Barrett. My new neighbor is a caveman—not remotely my type. He may be attractive, but he’s also stubborn and permanently scowling. Even worse? He dropped a couch on my foot. The more we spar, though, the hotter my secret attraction to him burns. Once I give in to the possessive hockey player, lines get blurred.
I want to win, but I also want him. And I can’t have both.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2023
257 people are currently reading
423 people want to read
About the author
Brenda Rothert
91 books2,270 followersBrenda Rothert is the author of more than thirty Contemporary Romance novels. You can learn more about her books at her website, www.brendarothert.com, which features teasers, excerpts and trailers for her books. Follow her here:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
July 3, 2023
I was so underwhelmed by this one. I liked how Elle and Ford met, it was cute, them when Elle's job came out it was a huge mic drop moment where all of a sudden they were at odds on different sides of an issue. Sure that issue was brought up multiple times through out the book but it was never really resolved other than, you have your thoughts, I have mine. I also didn't really see the chemistry after that initial meeting. Then throw in how Ford is the captain, yet there were many times when it seemed like he didn't really like his teammates, Dom I totally get, he really comes off as an ass. Then we have all the drama with Elle's brother, things ended well there, but it felt like things were missing. All in all this one was very mediocre which makes me sad as I normally really like this author.
August 5, 2024
I received a like from a fellow romance reader and when I saw it was for this book I figured I’d do a reread. Still love it. The good/not so good thing about Brenda Roth’s more recent books is they are shorter now so it’s easy to read a book in a day-- which is good. But they are shorter now and I love her books. 😁
(!!)(!!)(!!)(!!)(!!)(!!)
This was my second Brenda Rothert book of the day and yes, when I closed this one I started the third one. It's hard to explain what the difference is between a four and five star book. Pax is a four star which means I recommend it and yes, it's a book I'd reread. But The Opponent has something special about it that puts it up to a five star book.
Ford, our hero, has recently been traded to the team and made captain to replace the previous captain to replace the previous captain who was tragically killed in a bomb blast in the arena that also took the lives of three other players as well as twelve fans. He has a very tough road ahead of him as the team not only lost their arena but the team has been traumatized and as captain, one of his duties is to rally and motivate the players. This is his challenge as the book begins. He has one of the younger players over to motivate while kicking it in the Call of Duty game they are playing when they notice quite an attractive woman and her friend moving in next door. Of course they offer to help, being single guys and two attractive women. Things are going well until find out each other is. Elle, our heroine and Ford's new neighbour is an opinion columnist for the city newspaper and has written a number off articles slamming the sport of hockey in general and the Colorado team in particular. A possible romance dead in the water, the team captain versus the hockey hating columnist.
Or is It?
These two have some powerful chemistry going on and they can't seem to ignore each other. Now you would think there would be a lot of bickering between these two and that would have annoyed me. As a fan of the sport, I still understand where Elle is coming from. And wonderfully enough so does Ford. And this makes him such an amazing hero. He refuses to take their different stances personally and refuses to let anyone whether it's a player he captains or the coach or even the team owner speak disrespectfully about Elle and wowzers does that impress me. We learn later on in the book why Elle holds the opinions she does. It's personal to her. I simply love the two enemies to lovers and right away this book has become one of my favourite Brenda Rothert books.
(!!)(!!)(!!)(!!)(!!)(!!)
This was my second Brenda Rothert book of the day and yes, when I closed this one I started the third one. It's hard to explain what the difference is between a four and five star book. Pax is a four star which means I recommend it and yes, it's a book I'd reread. But The Opponent has something special about it that puts it up to a five star book.
Ford, our hero, has recently been traded to the team and made captain to replace the previous captain to replace the previous captain who was tragically killed in a bomb blast in the arena that also took the lives of three other players as well as twelve fans. He has a very tough road ahead of him as the team not only lost their arena but the team has been traumatized and as captain, one of his duties is to rally and motivate the players. This is his challenge as the book begins. He has one of the younger players over to motivate while kicking it in the Call of Duty game they are playing when they notice quite an attractive woman and her friend moving in next door. Of course they offer to help, being single guys and two attractive women. Things are going well until find out each other is. Elle, our heroine and Ford's new neighbour is an opinion columnist for the city newspaper and has written a number off articles slamming the sport of hockey in general and the Colorado team in particular. A possible romance dead in the water, the team captain versus the hockey hating columnist.
Or is It?
These two have some powerful chemistry going on and they can't seem to ignore each other. Now you would think there would be a lot of bickering between these two and that would have annoyed me. As a fan of the sport, I still understand where Elle is coming from. And wonderfully enough so does Ford. And this makes him such an amazing hero. He refuses to take their different stances personally and refuses to let anyone whether it's a player he captains or the coach or even the team owner speak disrespectfully about Elle and wowzers does that impress me. We learn later on in the book why Elle holds the opinions she does. It's personal to her. I simply love the two enemies to lovers and right away this book has become one of my favourite Brenda Rothert books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2023
Ever since reading “The Donor” last year, I have been waiting for another installment in the “Colorado Coyotes” series and I’m so happy to be able to read Ford’s story. “The Opponent” is a flirty, heartfelt and steamy enemies to lovers hockey romance that pulled me in right from the beginning.
Ford is the new Captain of the team after the team’s tragic accident and is finding his footing while supporting a team and community that is still in mourning. And having a reporter constantly writing about how the team shouldn’t be in Colorado and how it’s a waste to build a new arena isn’t helping him. Elle is an opinion reporter who goes and finds the tough stories that no one wants to talk about. And both are surprised to find out that they are now next door neighbors.
I was hooked on this book from the very first chapter and could not put it down. I loved Ford and Elle’s chemistry and it was so apparent from the start and even after they found out who they were. Ford is such a genuine guy and I loved how he wanted to bond and lead this team. They went through something unimaginable but came out on the other side. Elle is fierce, independent and isn’t afraid to speak for those who need a voice and helping hand. I admired her so much. These two had lots of sweet times that made my heart happy and lots of delicious steamy times. This is a great series and I’m already looking forward to the next book.
Ford is the new Captain of the team after the team’s tragic accident and is finding his footing while supporting a team and community that is still in mourning. And having a reporter constantly writing about how the team shouldn’t be in Colorado and how it’s a waste to build a new arena isn’t helping him. Elle is an opinion reporter who goes and finds the tough stories that no one wants to talk about. And both are surprised to find out that they are now next door neighbors.
I was hooked on this book from the very first chapter and could not put it down. I loved Ford and Elle’s chemistry and it was so apparent from the start and even after they found out who they were. Ford is such a genuine guy and I loved how he wanted to bond and lead this team. They went through something unimaginable but came out on the other side. Elle is fierce, independent and isn’t afraid to speak for those who need a voice and helping hand. I admired her so much. These two had lots of sweet times that made my heart happy and lots of delicious steamy times. This is a great series and I’m already looking forward to the next book.
June 28, 2023
Welcome to the world of the Colorado Coyotes, the fictional hockey team of Denver, Colorado in Brenda Rotherts scorchin series. If you love a good hockey romance this one does not disappoint.
In order to not spoil The Donor, the first book in the Colorado Coyotes series the team is now rebuilding. The impact of what happened is the reason that Ford Bennett is the new team Captain and hopefully able to help unify them as they navigate through their loss.
From the moment we meet Elle and Ford I was hooked, the couch scene had just enough tension to spark a wildfire. The discovery of their identity is priceless and once they figure it out ... the heat intensifies.As a local opinion writer for the city newspaper it’s no secret who she is and her opinion of the sport. What will happen when Ford discovers her strong aversion to the sport? Will he be able to stay away, or will his attraction to her intensify?
Elle has been chasing public opinions and assumptions of her family, is it really that different for professional athletes? Will her family still support her when they discover
If you're in the mood for a sports romance that has:
🏒 Hero is a H-O-T NHL Hockey Player
🏒 Heroine is a Newspaper Opinion Writer
🏒 Scorchin Chemistry
🏒 Masquerade Ball
🏒 Enemies to Lovers
🏒 Snarky Banter
🏒 Caveman appetite
While this is the second installment in the Colorado Coyotes series it can be read as a standalone. If you find yourself craving more from these hunky guys one-click book 1 and discover how it all began.
If you enjoy Sawyer Bennett and Kate Meader, be sure to check out this series as well as Brenda's other hockey books in her backlist. I hope one day we can have a novella with Elle's brother ... I'd love to have more of his story!
Thank you Brenda Rothert for the advance reader copy for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
In order to not spoil The Donor, the first book in the Colorado Coyotes series the team is now rebuilding. The impact of what happened is the reason that Ford Bennett is the new team Captain and hopefully able to help unify them as they navigate through their loss.
From the moment we meet Elle and Ford I was hooked, the couch scene had just enough tension to spark a wildfire. The discovery of their identity is priceless and once they figure it out ... the heat intensifies.As a local opinion writer for the city newspaper it’s no secret who she is and her opinion of the sport. What will happen when Ford discovers her strong aversion to the sport? Will he be able to stay away, or will his attraction to her intensify?
Elle has been chasing public opinions and assumptions of her family, is it really that different for professional athletes? Will her family still support her when they discover
If you're in the mood for a sports romance that has:
🏒 Hero is a H-O-T NHL Hockey Player
🏒 Heroine is a Newspaper Opinion Writer
🏒 Scorchin Chemistry
🏒 Masquerade Ball
🏒 Enemies to Lovers
🏒 Snarky Banter
🏒 Caveman appetite
While this is the second installment in the Colorado Coyotes series it can be read as a standalone. If you find yourself craving more from these hunky guys one-click book 1 and discover how it all began.
If you enjoy Sawyer Bennett and Kate Meader, be sure to check out this series as well as Brenda's other hockey books in her backlist. I hope one day we can have a novella with Elle's brother ... I'd love to have more of his story!
Thank you Brenda Rothert for the advance reader copy for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
June 27, 2023
A fantastic read. I loved the instant connection Elle (Eleanor) and Ford had when he and Dom helped her move into the townhouse next door. When they discovered who the other really was the sparks increased right along with the distaste.
Ford is the new captain of the Colorado Coyotes and is trying to help his team gel and adjust to the aftermath of the tragedy that ended the prior season. He is a gentleman alpha - a considerate and friendly guy, yet possessive and dominant with his last love.
Elle is an opinion columnist for the biggest newspaper in the state and she’s written articles bashing hockey and other physical sports as well as taken a strong stance against the city building a new arena for the Coyotes. She’s from a very affluent family, and though she has some luxury trappings (shoes, clothes, etc.) she lives a fairly normal life.
The sexual chemistry between these two characters is potent and they eventually give in. I really enjoyed the development of their relationship- it’s both sexy and slightly angsty with humor and plenty of support for each other. They have some emotional hiccups to work through, but they definitely are exciting to read.
I received a free ARC from the author; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
Ford is the new captain of the Colorado Coyotes and is trying to help his team gel and adjust to the aftermath of the tragedy that ended the prior season. He is a gentleman alpha - a considerate and friendly guy, yet possessive and dominant with his last love.
Elle is an opinion columnist for the biggest newspaper in the state and she’s written articles bashing hockey and other physical sports as well as taken a strong stance against the city building a new arena for the Coyotes. She’s from a very affluent family, and though she has some luxury trappings (shoes, clothes, etc.) she lives a fairly normal life.
The sexual chemistry between these two characters is potent and they eventually give in. I really enjoyed the development of their relationship- it’s both sexy and slightly angsty with humor and plenty of support for each other. They have some emotional hiccups to work through, but they definitely are exciting to read.
I received a free ARC from the author; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
June 27, 2023
This is the second book in the Coyotes series and I was looking forward to this one after having read the first one. Rothert has an excellent writing style and the book flows smoothly. It is an excellent sports romance. I would definitely recommend.
This book follows Ford and Elle. Ford is the new captain of the Coyotes after the tragedy that ended the last season early. Elle is a columnist for a major newspaper that is against rebuilding the arena and professional sports in general. When Elle moves in next to Ford, neither realize who the other is but when they do there is some obvious conflict. Elle starts to realize that Ford, and hockey players in general, may not be as bad as she made them out to be in her articles. And Ford realizes that Elle has an actual reason for disliking professional sports. Both are intensely attracted to each other but both realize that there will be hurdles to a relationship with each other.
Overall a great read. Some very good emotions and background for Elle and her dislike of the sport. But Ford is a patient man. And definitely some great humor in the book. You will love the other characters. Definitely a good sports romance.
This book follows Ford and Elle. Ford is the new captain of the Coyotes after the tragedy that ended the last season early. Elle is a columnist for a major newspaper that is against rebuilding the arena and professional sports in general. When Elle moves in next to Ford, neither realize who the other is but when they do there is some obvious conflict. Elle starts to realize that Ford, and hockey players in general, may not be as bad as she made them out to be in her articles. And Ford realizes that Elle has an actual reason for disliking professional sports. Both are intensely attracted to each other but both realize that there will be hurdles to a relationship with each other.
Overall a great read. Some very good emotions and background for Elle and her dislike of the sport. But Ford is a patient man. And definitely some great humor in the book. You will love the other characters. Definitely a good sports romance.
June 27, 2023
The second Colorado Coyotes book features new to the team Ford who has been brought to Colorado to serve as captain and help lead the team back on the ice after the tragedy of the previous season. When he sees a beautiful woman struggling to move her furniture to the apartment next door, him and his friend volunteer to help and we start to see small sparks. Elle writes an opinion column for the local newspaper and has not pulled any punches about how she feels about the new arena, the Coyotes and hockey players in general. Despite her hesitancy, Ford is intrigued and is determined to make her his. Minor angst in this one as they both deal with real issues in a very mature way. This maturity is evident in how Ford reacts to Elle's recent article against the funding of the new arena. When Elle is sure that Ford will be upset, she is surprised to find out that despite their different opinions, his feelings are the same. This respect is something that we don't always see in romance novels and will often lead to unnecessary conflict. Cheers to Brenda Rothert for giving us two main characters that can by different but alike in the respect they show each other.
I'm really enjoying this new team of characters and am looking foward to more of the teammates!
I'm really enjoying this new team of characters and am looking foward to more of the teammates!
June 26, 2023
I was so excited when The Opponent hit my kindle and all I need to say is, Ford Barrett and Eleanor Lawrence’s entertaining and at times emotional read was everything I expected and so much more.
Ford is the new captain of the Colorado Coyotes, the team reeling over the loss of five players in last seasons tragic arena explosion. Ford is doing everything he can to bond and build the team and that means battling with his new neighbour Eleanor aka Ellie who is opposed to the new stadium and everything hockey.
The day Ellie moved in it was Ford and a couple of teammates who gave her a hand but Ford also dropped a couch on her toe and then when they found out she was the local newspaper columnist determined to stop their teams stadium all hell broke lose. Problem number one is Ellie and Ford are extremely attracted to each other so can they find some harmony……one click to find out.
The Opponent ticked all my boxes, I fell hard and fast for Ford, I adored the strong and sassy Ellie but it was watching Ford fight for the love of his life that took this book to another level. If you love sports romance look no further than Ford and Ellie’s heartwarming story in The Opponent.
Ford is the new captain of the Colorado Coyotes, the team reeling over the loss of five players in last seasons tragic arena explosion. Ford is doing everything he can to bond and build the team and that means battling with his new neighbour Eleanor aka Ellie who is opposed to the new stadium and everything hockey.
The day Ellie moved in it was Ford and a couple of teammates who gave her a hand but Ford also dropped a couch on her toe and then when they found out she was the local newspaper columnist determined to stop their teams stadium all hell broke lose. Problem number one is Ellie and Ford are extremely attracted to each other so can they find some harmony……one click to find out.
The Opponent ticked all my boxes, I fell hard and fast for Ford, I adored the strong and sassy Ellie but it was watching Ford fight for the love of his life that took this book to another level. If you love sports romance look no further than Ford and Ellie’s heartwarming story in The Opponent.
June 27, 2023
Colorado Coyotes #2
Ford Barrett is 28 and the new team Captain for the Colorado Coyotes pro hockey team. He was one of five players who had been acquired by the team after a devastating explosion leveled their arena and killed five of their players and seventeen other people. As Captain it's his job to build this team and grow them closer together.
Eleanor "Elle" Lawrence is an opinion columnist for the Denver Chronicle. She has written numerous columns opposing the construction of a new professional hockey arena in Denver which would end the city's pro hockey team.
Ford sees his new neighbor moving in and how she and her friend are struggling to move some of the furniture so he and a teammate go over and help them move. All is going well until he finds out who she is and what she does.
But no worries as Ford isn't her type but oh how the sparks fly and the chemistry is there.
Elle starts to see Ford in a different light but still doesn't like that he plays hockey. He likes her and wants to date her but she has a lot going on. Do they dare cross the line?
4 stars
Ford Barrett is 28 and the new team Captain for the Colorado Coyotes pro hockey team. He was one of five players who had been acquired by the team after a devastating explosion leveled their arena and killed five of their players and seventeen other people. As Captain it's his job to build this team and grow them closer together.
Eleanor "Elle" Lawrence is an opinion columnist for the Denver Chronicle. She has written numerous columns opposing the construction of a new professional hockey arena in Denver which would end the city's pro hockey team.
Ford sees his new neighbor moving in and how she and her friend are struggling to move some of the furniture so he and a teammate go over and help them move. All is going well until he finds out who she is and what she does.
But no worries as Ford isn't her type but oh how the sparks fly and the chemistry is there.
Elle starts to see Ford in a different light but still doesn't like that he plays hockey. He likes her and wants to date her but she has a lot going on. Do they dare cross the line?
4 stars
June 27, 2023
5 Star review of The Opponent (Colorado Coyotes #2) by Brenda Rothert
After the emotional and explosive last few chapters of the first book in Brenda Rothert’s latest Colorado Coyote series, I could not wait to see what she had in store for the new captain Ford Barrett and the woman who would capture his attention, Eleanor (Elle) Lawrence.
I fell hard for Ford, such a stand-up, caring man and one who is doing whatever it takes to lead the Coyotes as they rebuild from the tragedy that rocked them all and the loss of the five players killed in the explosion. It is an uphill battle at times, but he is determined to succeed. Elle is his neighbor, and she is against everything hockey, including the new statium; the last thing she wants is to be attracted to Ford.
Elle is a newspaper columnist and is determined to stop the building of the new stadium. I loved how feisty and sassy Elle is, she is driven and focused and I loved her. Who will win the battle?
The Opponent is a well written, witty, romantic and at times emotional enemies to lovers hockey romance that ticked all the boxes for me. From the first chapter to the last I was riveted to the story that Ms. Rothert wove.
After the emotional and explosive last few chapters of the first book in Brenda Rothert’s latest Colorado Coyote series, I could not wait to see what she had in store for the new captain Ford Barrett and the woman who would capture his attention, Eleanor (Elle) Lawrence.
I fell hard for Ford, such a stand-up, caring man and one who is doing whatever it takes to lead the Coyotes as they rebuild from the tragedy that rocked them all and the loss of the five players killed in the explosion. It is an uphill battle at times, but he is determined to succeed. Elle is his neighbor, and she is against everything hockey, including the new statium; the last thing she wants is to be attracted to Ford.
Elle is a newspaper columnist and is determined to stop the building of the new stadium. I loved how feisty and sassy Elle is, she is driven and focused and I loved her. Who will win the battle?
The Opponent is a well written, witty, romantic and at times emotional enemies to lovers hockey romance that ticked all the boxes for me. From the first chapter to the last I was riveted to the story that Ms. Rothert wove.
June 29, 2023
Brenda Rothert hits it in the net with THE OPPONENT (Colorado Coyotes #2). Colorado Coyotes captain Ford Barrett meets his new neighbor Eleanor Lawrence. Unfortunately, she is also the newspaper columnist for the Denver Chronicle and a nemesis of the team. Too bad they were hitting it off so well before they discovered who the other was.
An explosion destroyed the team’s rink a year prior to this story. The team is trying to get help funding the new arena from the city. Elle’s negative articles are not helping the team’s cause. She has an understandable reason for being opposed to hockey. The situation makes for an interesting conflict between Ford and Elle. Being neighbors, they frequently run into each other, not to mention various social events they attend for work.
THE OPPONENT is an excellent addition to the Colorado Coyotes series. The characters have dimensions and are likable. It is skillfully written and entertaining. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
An explosion destroyed the team’s rink a year prior to this story. The team is trying to get help funding the new arena from the city. Elle’s negative articles are not helping the team’s cause. She has an understandable reason for being opposed to hockey. The situation makes for an interesting conflict between Ford and Elle. Being neighbors, they frequently run into each other, not to mention various social events they attend for work.
THE OPPONENT is an excellent addition to the Colorado Coyotes series. The characters have dimensions and are likable. It is skillfully written and entertaining. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
July 1, 2023
Ford is the newly assigned captain of the Coyotes and takes on all responsibility of getting this team to bond and turn around. After the tragedy, he knows it's not easy, but as a group they will overcome this. One obstacle they face is getting the city of Denver to agree to build a new arena.
Elle is a journalist and strongly opposed to the building of a new arena. She dislikes contact sports and feels there is no use for them. When she meets Ford, she has no idea who he is and vice versa. They hit it off and have a fun banter until they find out who each other is. Now there is major tension, but still attraction.
Can they put their differences aside to try a relationship? Will Elle tell Ford her reasons for not wanting the arena? Can Ford show Elle a side of hockey that is like a family and win her over?
The banter between them was hilarious. I also hope we get more of Dom, I feel he has payback coming to him.
Elle is a journalist and strongly opposed to the building of a new arena. She dislikes contact sports and feels there is no use for them. When she meets Ford, she has no idea who he is and vice versa. They hit it off and have a fun banter until they find out who each other is. Now there is major tension, but still attraction.
Can they put their differences aside to try a relationship? Will Elle tell Ford her reasons for not wanting the arena? Can Ford show Elle a side of hockey that is like a family and win her over?
The banter between them was hilarious. I also hope we get more of Dom, I feel he has payback coming to him.
July 12, 2023
Ford and Elle have a meet-cute when he helps her move her furniture into the townhouse next to his. But when they figure out she is the newspaper opinion writer who is arguing against the new hockey arena and he is the team’s captain, they try to walk away cleanly. But circumstances keep bringing them back together and they start to see things from the other person’s perspective. Can two people who should be opponents be something else?
I liked the two main characters and the relationship they build together. Ford is very honest and up front with Elle, which is what she needs after so many have liked her only for her family wealth. And she is challenging and smart, which is what he needs.
I did read the first book in this series as well and really liked it. I think this works as a stand alone but I do recommend the other book as well.
I read an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I liked the two main characters and the relationship they build together. Ford is very honest and up front with Elle, which is what she needs after so many have liked her only for her family wealth. And she is challenging and smart, which is what he needs.
I did read the first book in this series as well and really liked it. I think this works as a stand alone but I do recommend the other book as well.
I read an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
June 27, 2023
Ford was such a great guy! He was a leader, caring, loving, and stood up for what was right. It was hilarious to me how he met Elle, helped her move in to her place next to his, and then when he and his hockey buddy found out who she was just left without finishing helping her. Elle was an opinion writer who was so against the new hockey arena for the Colorado Coyotes and made it very public. Since Ford was the captain of the team and hockey was his love, he didn’t appreciate her words. The crazy thing though was that they both had feelings for each other. This made for testy situations at times, but I loved how Ford handled it. It was so nice to see how loyal Elle was to her brother Luke and did all she could to help him. I strongly encourage you to read the book. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
July 1, 2023
So excited for another Brenda Rothert hockey story - hers are some of my favorite! And The Opponent didn’t disappoint.
Ford and Elle - their meet cute is awesome but turns frosty in a hurry! After all finding out the person you think is seriously the most gorgeous girl you have ever met thinks you’re a Neanderthal is quite the shock. Finding out you’re on opposite sides in one of the biggest controversies in town is quite isn’t how you pictured your life going.
Even though they can’t agree on Ford’s career choice as being a good thing their feelings don’t quite get the message. Throw in a crazy teammate (who I just love!) and a difficult sibling who loves the game you hate and things just get better…and better!
This story is captivating and reminds everyone that love knows no bounds and doesn’t have to be perfect to be perfect for you. I can’t wait for her next book!
Ford and Elle - their meet cute is awesome but turns frosty in a hurry! After all finding out the person you think is seriously the most gorgeous girl you have ever met thinks you’re a Neanderthal is quite the shock. Finding out you’re on opposite sides in one of the biggest controversies in town is quite isn’t how you pictured your life going.
Even though they can’t agree on Ford’s career choice as being a good thing their feelings don’t quite get the message. Throw in a crazy teammate (who I just love!) and a difficult sibling who loves the game you hate and things just get better…and better!
This story is captivating and reminds everyone that love knows no bounds and doesn’t have to be perfect to be perfect for you. I can’t wait for her next book!
July 18, 2023
Ford and the reporter
THE OPPONENT begins several months after the Colorado Coyote stadium explosion killing 5 players and 17 others. Ford is the first “outsider” players hired to replace one of those they lost. The book starts with the opening of their season and the controversy surrounding rebuilding the stadium.
Elle is Ford’s new neighbor but also a journalist opposed to the stadium. It’s a real measure of the kind of man Ford is to understand why she feels they way she does even though it is in opposition to his livelihood and passion.
These two have a passionate and mature relationship. They are torn with keeping it hidden to protect each other. It is also an important commentary on the dangers of contact sports like hockey and how people cope with their disabilities.
I love this series and look forward to the next book.
THE OPPONENT begins several months after the Colorado Coyote stadium explosion killing 5 players and 17 others. Ford is the first “outsider” players hired to replace one of those they lost. The book starts with the opening of their season and the controversy surrounding rebuilding the stadium.
Elle is Ford’s new neighbor but also a journalist opposed to the stadium. It’s a real measure of the kind of man Ford is to understand why she feels they way she does even though it is in opposition to his livelihood and passion.
These two have a passionate and mature relationship. They are torn with keeping it hidden to protect each other. It is also an important commentary on the dangers of contact sports like hockey and how people cope with their disabilities.
I love this series and look forward to the next book.
January 1, 2025
Ford helps his new neighbor, Elle, move into the townhouse next to his. He doesn't realize until after that she is the reporter who has been bashing hockey players and railing against the new stadium for the Colorado Coyotes. She has her reasons, which were somewhat valid, but she went way too far in her opinions on the subject. Her brother, Luke, had issues but not all of them were tied to his days playing hockey when he was younger. I have to admit that I didn't care for Elle for most of this book. She was rigid and felt everyone had a hidden agenda, when she was the one who had an agenda most of the time. Ford was a stand-up guy and I liked that he didn't beat around the bush. He didn't let her get away with acting like a toddler. I liked that about him a lot. Their ending was kind of abrupt but overall I liked this book.
June 28, 2023
I am sad to say The Opponent was not for me. The premise sounded entertaining, and give me ALL the hockey romance. I was sure this would be right up my alley.
Unfortunately, I did not connect with the characters at all. Elle and Ford were incessantly childish. Their arguments due to their "rivalry" were ridiculous. Elle's wording choices for her articles against the new hockey arena were over the top, and again, childish. What Ford had to do at the end of the book for the team was painful to read about. I did not find it amusing at all.
I also struggled to feel the chemistry and connection between Ford and Elle. It felt contrived.
Hopefully others enjoy it more than I did.
***I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy generously provided by the author.***
Unfortunately, I did not connect with the characters at all. Elle and Ford were incessantly childish. Their arguments due to their "rivalry" were ridiculous. Elle's wording choices for her articles against the new hockey arena were over the top, and again, childish. What Ford had to do at the end of the book for the team was painful to read about. I did not find it amusing at all.
I also struggled to feel the chemistry and connection between Ford and Elle. It felt contrived.
Hopefully others enjoy it more than I did.
***I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy generously provided by the author.***
July 18, 2023
Elle and Ford are like oil and water. Their rivalry is written in print and is hard-core like the Astros and Oakland. I love how fierce Elle is and how hard she loves when it comes to her family and friends. I love how Ford is loyal to his team and friends and family and how he can take a joke. Their story is fun but also deep and emotional. I love how they are able to set aside their original impressions and leave room for more, a friendship, soft feelings and a chance to become a team themselves. I would like to thank the author and her team for my advance copy of this story and allowing me to offer my honest yet humble opinion on Elle and Ford. I loved The Donor so much and am happy to have read the next book. 4.5 Flying Stars
June 27, 2023
I love these hockey series and Brenda is fantsic at writing them.
This book is another great read, once you start that's it finished 😁
Ford is the captain of the Colorado Coyotes hockey team & Ellie is a column writer for a news paper & not a fan of hockey, in her columns she writes her opinions down for everyone to see. When Ford meets her for the 1st time and helps her move in next door he does not know who she is, when he does find out he is not happy as she has made it very clear what she thinks if the team.
There is chemistry between Ford & Ellie, but will she let her fears stop herself from living?
I hope there Is another book in this series coming soon 😍
This book is another great read, once you start that's it finished 😁
Ford is the captain of the Colorado Coyotes hockey team & Ellie is a column writer for a news paper & not a fan of hockey, in her columns she writes her opinions down for everyone to see. When Ford meets her for the 1st time and helps her move in next door he does not know who she is, when he does find out he is not happy as she has made it very clear what she thinks if the team.
There is chemistry between Ford & Ellie, but will she let her fears stop herself from living?
I hope there Is another book in this series coming soon 😍
June 27, 2023
Brenda Rothert is one of my favorite authors because her stories always captivate me and her writing is always smooth and flows together beautifully.
Ford had me hooked from the beginning of the story. He is one of the good ones-the kind that’s hard to find and once you do, a woman better not let go! Elle is a character that I first questioned if I was going to like her. As the story unfolded, I found that I really did like her and learned that she was a cautious person who worried too much and tried to be perfect. I loved the chemistry between these two characters especially in the bedroom!
June 28, 2023
Ford and Elle meet when she moves into his building and he and his teammate see her and her friend struggling to bring in furniture. They hit it off until he realizes who she is and where she works. Yikes! Now he wants nothing to do with her. And I mean nothing!
Too bad invisible strings have tied them together.
He wants her and he has no regrets about it even though maybe he should.
She wants him, but she’s trying to deny herself. How can she be with someone like him???
I enjoyed these characters and I am looking forward to future stories within this series.
I love a good hockey romance story!
Too bad invisible strings have tied them together.
He wants her and he has no regrets about it even though maybe he should.
She wants him, but she’s trying to deny herself. How can she be with someone like him???
I enjoyed these characters and I am looking forward to future stories within this series.
I love a good hockey romance story!
June 29, 2023
I've read a few books by this author but not for a little while so I was glad to pick up The Donor followed by The Opponent which are hockey romance, my favourite. I really enjoyed reading them back to back and was actually glad to be able to dive right into this one after finishing The Donor because of the unexpected ending of that one!
I liked Ford and Elle as characters and the story flowed really nicely. My only comment would be that the final chapter should really be seen as an epilogue as it was more of a wrap up and a little too abrupt an ending if thought of as a 'normal' chapter. I'd really like to read more in this series and hope there will be more soon, including for Mila...
I liked Ford and Elle as characters and the story flowed really nicely. My only comment would be that the final chapter should really be seen as an epilogue as it was more of a wrap up and a little too abrupt an ending if thought of as a 'normal' chapter. I'd really like to read more in this series and hope there will be more soon, including for Mila...
July 1, 2023
In this book we meet the newest captain of the Colorado Coyotes after the stadium tragedy, Ford. He is a no nonsense player who is fighting hard to bring this team back together after the loss of their arena and so many of their players.
Ford has a new neighbor. A beautiful, intelligent woman,named Elle, who is also an opinion columnist. And it seems Ford and Elle have very different opinions.
They both need to hide their attraction but it is very difficult and their careers depend on it.
Emotional histories, family ties, and the love / hate relationship with Hockey makes this tale so unique and endearing.
Ford has a new neighbor. A beautiful, intelligent woman,named Elle, who is also an opinion columnist. And it seems Ford and Elle have very different opinions.
They both need to hide their attraction but it is very difficult and their careers depend on it.
Emotional histories, family ties, and the love / hate relationship with Hockey makes this tale so unique and endearing.
July 1, 2023
In this book we meet the newest captain of the Colorado Coyotes after the stadium tragedy, Ford. He is a no nonsense player who is fighting hard to bring this team back together after the loss of their arena and so many of their players.
Ford has a new neighbor. A beautiful, intelligent woman,named Elle, who is also an opinion columnist. And it seems Ford and Elle have very different opinions.
They both need to hide their attraction but it is very difficult and their careers depend on it.
Emotional histories, family ties, and the love / hate relationship with Hockey makes this tale so unique and endearing.
Ford has a new neighbor. A beautiful, intelligent woman,named Elle, who is also an opinion columnist. And it seems Ford and Elle have very different opinions.
They both need to hide their attraction but it is very difficult and their careers depend on it.
Emotional histories, family ties, and the love / hate relationship with Hockey makes this tale so unique and endearing.
June 27, 2023
Sleeping with the enemy? Sorta? Maybe?
On paper, Ford & Elle are enemies. Especially in her paper because she's the opinion writer of Denver's newspaper that is passionately opposing the construction of a new hockey arena, and hockey in general. Ford is the captain of the Coyotes team and an all-around good guy. He'll do his best to convince her that even though they are on opposite sides publicly they can be very good together privately.
They each deserve a break. Might as well take it together.
On paper, Ford & Elle are enemies. Especially in her paper because she's the opinion writer of Denver's newspaper that is passionately opposing the construction of a new hockey arena, and hockey in general. Ford is the captain of the Coyotes team and an all-around good guy. He'll do his best to convince her that even though they are on opposite sides publicly they can be very good together privately.
They each deserve a break. Might as well take it together.
June 29, 2023
This was a cute story! I really liked Ford! He was kind and thoughtful, not to mention a little bossy, which is always a good thing in book boyfriend, in my opinion.
Elle, on the other hand, wasn't a great character for me. I didn't like her attitude. Just because she didn't like hockey, she felt the need to make sure she put it down, every chance she could. I understand where she was coming from, but that didn't make it right.
They were good together, though and that's all that matters.
Elle, on the other hand, wasn't a great character for me. I didn't like her attitude. Just because she didn't like hockey, she felt the need to make sure she put it down, every chance she could. I understand where she was coming from, but that didn't make it right.
They were good together, though and that's all that matters.
July 2, 2023
What an amazing 5 star story this was. An enemies to lovers story.
Ford is an hockey player and his new neighbour is none other the columnist, Elle who has bashed his hockey team. Things are about to get interesting.
I enjoyed this story in one sitting. The bantering between these 2 was highly entertaining. There was a side character that played an important part in order to make this story so much more. Elle’s brother has been troubled for a long time.
I loved this sports romance so much. It was addicting and captivating. Bottomline this is a must read.
Although it’s part of a series it can be read as a standalone. Told in dual POV with an HEA. I strongly recommend this story.
June 30, 2023
I really enjoyed the opponent it’s feel like a great romantic movie some funny parts really in-depth soulful subjects. Elle and Ford are attracted to one and another but the on opposite side on the taught of professional sports. The author bring it all in a beautiful way. It’s in series it’s not necessary to read the first one but i would suggest it because you get a better understanding of the team.
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