What do you think?
Rate this book
Gold Hockey #17
Crushed
She was everything he shouldn’t want.
He was going to take her anyway.
Once Lily had fit the role of an annoying little sister.
But then she’d gone and grown up—become all woman and one he shouldn’t want.
She was off-limits, or should be, anyway. She worked for the San Francisco Gold, worked for the same team he played for. But that wasn’t the only reason she was off-limits.
Lily was the daughter of the man who had been more of a father than his own.
So Will couldn’t have her, couldn’t risk taking her.
Except…his body and heart weren’t listening to reason.
Because Lily had become the woman he wanted more than anything else.
He was going to take her anyway.
Once Lily had fit the role of an annoying little sister.
But then she’d gone and grown up—become all woman and one he shouldn’t want.
She was off-limits, or should be, anyway. She worked for the San Francisco Gold, worked for the same team he played for. But that wasn’t the only reason she was off-limits.
Lily was the daughter of the man who had been more of a father than his own.
So Will couldn’t have her, couldn’t risk taking her.
Except…his body and heart weren’t listening to reason.
Because Lily had become the woman he wanted more than anything else.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 23, 2023
37 people are currently reading
157 people want to read
About the author
Elise Faber
157 books1,067 followersUSA Today bestselling author, Elise Faber, loves chocolate, Star Wars, and hockey (the order depending on the day and how well her team—the Sharks!—are playing). She and her husband also play as much hockey as they can squeeze into their schedules, so much so that their typical date night is spent on the ice. Elise changes her hair color more often than some people change their socks, loves sparkly things, and is the mom to two exuberant boys. She lives in Northern California. Connect with her in her Facebook group, the Fabinators or email her at elise@elisefaber.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
May 28, 2023
Strengthening the love!
Lily is offered a job with Gold Hockey and takes it to escape a bad situation. Moving to the Gold means that she comes into contact with Will, a guy who lived with her family years before. A guy she crushed on and dreamed about. When Will is asked to let Lily stay with him until her apartment is ready, all the feelings he had when he was a teenager come back. Lily is off limits, Will loves her family and doesn't want to jeopardise the relationship he has with them. When he accidentally sees Lily naked he knows he's never gotten over his crush and the feelings are rushing in!
When they become closer and feelings become stronger, will they give into the chemistry? When parts of their past come back to cause chaos, will it tear them apart or make them stronger?
This was an addictive read thank just couldn't put down. Can't wait for Elise next book
Lily is offered a job with Gold Hockey and takes it to escape a bad situation. Moving to the Gold means that she comes into contact with Will, a guy who lived with her family years before. A guy she crushed on and dreamed about. When Will is asked to let Lily stay with him until her apartment is ready, all the feelings he had when he was a teenager come back. Lily is off limits, Will loves her family and doesn't want to jeopardise the relationship he has with them. When he accidentally sees Lily naked he knows he's never gotten over his crush and the feelings are rushing in!
When they become closer and feelings become stronger, will they give into the chemistry? When parts of their past come back to cause chaos, will it tear them apart or make them stronger?
This was an addictive read thank just couldn't put down. Can't wait for Elise next book
June 10, 2023
Will Johansson became an honorary member of the Cartwright family when he boarded with them while playing for a local junior hockey team. The Cartwrights' daughter Lily secretly had a crush on him back then, but because of their four-year age gap, he saw her as nothing more than an adopted little sister. Years later, sports psychologist Lily has been unemployed ever since she exposed a scandal at her former workplace. Her professional reputation has taken a hit, so she's shocked when the general manager of the San Francisco Gold shows up at her front door and offers her a job. In need of a place to live until her new apartment is ready, Lily's father arranges for her to stay with Will, now a professional hockey player for the Gold. As soon as he lays eyes on Lily for the first time in years, Will realizes that his feelings for her have changed, but knowing that she's had a tough year, he does his best to keep her at a distance. He can't help wanting to protect her, however - whether she thinks she needs it or not.
The push-pull between Lily and Will was intense from the moment they reunited as adults, in large part because of his need to try and protect her from anything and everything that might possibly hurt her - even himself. It took a long time (and some amazing advice from his teammate Brit, the real star of the book for saying everything to Will that I was thinking) for him to realize that she was a grown up capable of making decisions for herself. I loved the way that Lily stood up for herself in the end and set clear expectations for their relationship going forward. I wouldn't have minded seeing Will grovel a bit more, but I believed that he had learned his lesson and would do better in the future, so I was satisfied with where they ended up.
Overall, I enjoyed "Crushed" and recommend it for all contemporary/sports romance fans. After the groundwork laid in this book's epilogue, I am very much looking forward to the next book of this series.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
The push-pull between Lily and Will was intense from the moment they reunited as adults, in large part because of his need to try and protect her from anything and everything that might possibly hurt her - even himself. It took a long time (and some amazing advice from his teammate Brit, the real star of the book for saying everything to Will that I was thinking) for him to realize that she was a grown up capable of making decisions for herself. I loved the way that Lily stood up for herself in the end and set clear expectations for their relationship going forward. I wouldn't have minded seeing Will grovel a bit more, but I believed that he had learned his lesson and would do better in the future, so I was satisfied with where they ended up.
Overall, I enjoyed "Crushed" and recommend it for all contemporary/sports romance fans. After the groundwork laid in this book's epilogue, I am very much looking forward to the next book of this series.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 22, 2023
Universal
Will and Lily are to be reunited, but things will be anything but the same. She's his team's psychologist, she's all grown up (and beautiful), and he can't possibly be thinking about his father figure's daughter this way, can he?
The Gold Hockey series has proven to be one of the best hockey series I've ever read. Every couple has its own unique tale, each character has their own backstories, and all end up finding much deserved love and happiness. Though Lily and Will's tale was sort of forbidden, that was really only in his mind, and I love that he finally got over it. Lily is such a strong heroine with a beautiful heart. She and Will end up forging a strong emotional connection and have a sizzling physical bond.
ARC provided by 1852 Media for an honest review.
Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.
Blog | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Bookbub
May 23, 2023
CRUSHED is the eighteenth book in the Gold Hockey series and is Will and Lily's story. Let me start by saying I know I will be in the minority with my review and I apologise for that.
Going wide first, I love the Gold family. I love how they are there for each other, no matter what, but are not afraid to speak bluntly either. I'm not looking forward to Britt retiring any more than any of the others.
Now, on to Will and Lily. Individually, I loved them. I thought Lily was so strong, her backbone is made of steel. She did the right thing for the right reasons and it all went pear-shaped. But she stepped up and carried on, regardless. Will is the one guy you can always count on, good to his friends and everything you could dream of. BUT - and this is the part I hate - I just didn't see them as a couple. Yes, they had chemistry, but the back and forth of their 'relationship' drove me insane. I really didn't enjoy that bit. If it had just been like that at the beginning/middle, it would have been okay. But it went all the way through. And I know angsty stories are a thing, but I don't know. Something about these two as a couple didn't work for me.
The epilogue that leads us to the next book was amazing though! The sparks were flying between Lucas and Maddy whenever they shared a scene. I can't wait to read their book.
Crushed is a great addition to the Gold Hockey series, just not one of my favourites. I can still recommend it though as I know it will appeal to many.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 23, 2023
Going wide first, I love the Gold family. I love how they are there for each other, no matter what, but are not afraid to speak bluntly either. I'm not looking forward to Britt retiring any more than any of the others.
Now, on to Will and Lily. Individually, I loved them. I thought Lily was so strong, her backbone is made of steel. She did the right thing for the right reasons and it all went pear-shaped. But she stepped up and carried on, regardless. Will is the one guy you can always count on, good to his friends and everything you could dream of. BUT - and this is the part I hate - I just didn't see them as a couple. Yes, they had chemistry, but the back and forth of their 'relationship' drove me insane. I really didn't enjoy that bit. If it had just been like that at the beginning/middle, it would have been okay. But it went all the way through. And I know angsty stories are a thing, but I don't know. Something about these two as a couple didn't work for me.
The epilogue that leads us to the next book was amazing though! The sparks were flying between Lucas and Maddy whenever they shared a scene. I can't wait to read their book.
Crushed is a great addition to the Gold Hockey series, just not one of my favourites. I can still recommend it though as I know it will appeal to many.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 23, 2023
May 30, 2023
Crushed is the eighteenth book set within the Gold Hockey series, but stands alone. Lily and Will have known each other since they were kids, but now that she’s working for his team, he can’t get her out of his mind. Lily has a lot to prove, but also isn’t afraid to follow her heart. When problems from their pasts try to tarnish their new relationship, will they stand and fight for each other and love, or will they just end up crushed?
Oh my goodness, this book was so good! I love that when I open up a book from Ms. Faber, it’s going to be emotional, but the ending is going to be so worth it, and I just have to trust the journey. I loved Lily and Will, separately as their own characters, but they were so much stronger when they were together. I loved her passion for her athletes, and how she fought for what was good and right, regardless of the consequences. She was brave and bold and selfless. Will was perfect for her because he did a lot of the same for his own teammates and the family he created. He had a moral code that he didn’t want to break, but I loved when he gave in to his heart. I thought they were a really great couple. There’s some drama within the pages, from both characters, but I liked that the focus was on the relationships that formed between the main characters and all of the side characters. I wish there would have been a little more of her job incorporated into the storyline, working with the Gold hockey players, but otherwise, I loved reading this book, and as always, I can’t wait for the next book to come!
Oh my goodness, this book was so good! I love that when I open up a book from Ms. Faber, it’s going to be emotional, but the ending is going to be so worth it, and I just have to trust the journey. I loved Lily and Will, separately as their own characters, but they were so much stronger when they were together. I loved her passion for her athletes, and how she fought for what was good and right, regardless of the consequences. She was brave and bold and selfless. Will was perfect for her because he did a lot of the same for his own teammates and the family he created. He had a moral code that he didn’t want to break, but I loved when he gave in to his heart. I thought they were a really great couple. There’s some drama within the pages, from both characters, but I liked that the focus was on the relationships that formed between the main characters and all of the side characters. I wish there would have been a little more of her job incorporated into the storyline, working with the Gold hockey players, but otherwise, I loved reading this book, and as always, I can’t wait for the next book to come!
May 23, 2023
You'd think that after so many books in the one series, this whole world would be getting old - but you would definitely be wrong. Each book reads as a standalone, and obviously previous characters do pop up, but you don't need to know all the ins and outs of them to follow along with this story.
Lily has to be one of the strongest heroine's I have read in quite some time. Her moral compass is extraordinary, and the way she treats everyone she meets has me wishing that she was actually real & that I was lucky enough to know her. The way her & Will first meet again after many years apart was as amusing as it was endearing. The thoughts running through Will's head and how he kept putting a wall up between anything happening between the two of them had me feeling all angsty one minute and then wanting to through my kindle at something solid the next. He was certainly frustrating, but to him it was for good reason.
I loved how this team is like a family. Not only do you read that is how they all think of themselves, but I honestly could feel it too. My only gripe about this book was that I wanted to know what happened between Will & Saffron at the end of the book - maybe because I was feeling a bit blood thirsty with how that all went down & needed some time of repercussions happening.
I am also loving the glimpse into the next book, I could kind of guess it would feature this pair and I cannot wait to get my hands on it
Lily has to be one of the strongest heroine's I have read in quite some time. Her moral compass is extraordinary, and the way she treats everyone she meets has me wishing that she was actually real & that I was lucky enough to know her. The way her & Will first meet again after many years apart was as amusing as it was endearing. The thoughts running through Will's head and how he kept putting a wall up between anything happening between the two of them had me feeling all angsty one minute and then wanting to through my kindle at something solid the next. He was certainly frustrating, but to him it was for good reason.
I loved how this team is like a family. Not only do you read that is how they all think of themselves, but I honestly could feel it too. My only gripe about this book was that I wanted to know what happened between Will & Saffron at the end of the book - maybe because I was feeling a bit blood thirsty with how that all went down & needed some time of repercussions happening.
I am also loving the glimpse into the next book, I could kind of guess it would feature this pair and I cannot wait to get my hands on it
May 24, 2023
"
May 23, 2023
You'd think that after so many books in the one series, this whole world would be getting old - but you would definitely be wrong. Each book reads as a standalone, and obviously previous characters do pop up, but you don't need to know all the ins and outs of them to follow along with this story.
Lily has to be one of the strongest heroine's I have read in quite some time. Her moral compass is extraordinary, and the way she treats everyone she meets has me wishing that she was actually real & that I was lucky enough to know her. The way her & Will first meet again after many years apart was as amusing as it was endearing. The thoughts running through Will's head and how he kept putting a wall up between anything happening between the two of them had me feeling all angsty one minute and then wanting to through my kindle at something solid the next. He was certainly frustrating, but to him it was for good reason.
I loved how this team is like a family. Not only do you read that is how they all think of themselves, but I honestly could feel it too. My only gripe about this book was that I wanted to know what happened between Will & Saffron at the end of the book - maybe because I was feeling a bit blood thirsty with how that all went down & needed some time of repercussions happening.
I am also loving the glimpse into the next book, I could kind of guess it would feature this pair and I cannot wait to get my hands on it"
May 23, 2023
You'd think that after so many books in the one series, this whole world would be getting old - but you would definitely be wrong. Each book reads as a standalone, and obviously previous characters do pop up, but you don't need to know all the ins and outs of them to follow along with this story.
Lily has to be one of the strongest heroine's I have read in quite some time. Her moral compass is extraordinary, and the way she treats everyone she meets has me wishing that she was actually real & that I was lucky enough to know her. The way her & Will first meet again after many years apart was as amusing as it was endearing. The thoughts running through Will's head and how he kept putting a wall up between anything happening between the two of them had me feeling all angsty one minute and then wanting to through my kindle at something solid the next. He was certainly frustrating, but to him it was for good reason.
I loved how this team is like a family. Not only do you read that is how they all think of themselves, but I honestly could feel it too. My only gripe about this book was that I wanted to know what happened between Will & Saffron at the end of the book - maybe because I was feeling a bit blood thirsty with how that all went down & needed some time of repercussions happening.
I am also loving the glimpse into the next book, I could kind of guess it would feature this pair and I cannot wait to get my hands on it"
May 24, 2023
The stories in the Gold Hockey series have such a genuine, real feel to them. None of the characters are perfect, playing hockey doesn’t magically solve all their problems. Like a big extended family, all of the characters have their own set of issues…but they also have the support of their hockey family - the players, support staff, etc., which is wonderful and refreshing! as a group?
Will and Lily’s story is complicated. Will lived with Lily’s family (as a billet family) when he was young. Lily and her brother Tom were younger. Their parents, Don and Valerie, treated him like he was one of their own. At that time, Will saw Lily as a younger sister.
When Lily accepts a position as a sports psychologist within the Gold team and moves to San Francisco where Will plays, Don asks Will if she could stay with him until she can get settled. Will readily agrees.
When Will picks up Lily at the airport, he finds that the young teen girl he remembered has grown up to be a lovely woman. One that Will reminds himself is off limits.
Lily has her own issues surrounding her previous job (avoiding spoilers). Issues that weigh heavy in her, as well as trying to find a balance with Will, her one-time crush.
There are ups and downs for Will and Lily…can they find their way together?
A touching love story!
Will and Lily’s story is complicated. Will lived with Lily’s family (as a billet family) when he was young. Lily and her brother Tom were younger. Their parents, Don and Valerie, treated him like he was one of their own. At that time, Will saw Lily as a younger sister.
When Lily accepts a position as a sports psychologist within the Gold team and moves to San Francisco where Will plays, Don asks Will if she could stay with him until she can get settled. Will readily agrees.
When Will picks up Lily at the airport, he finds that the young teen girl he remembered has grown up to be a lovely woman. One that Will reminds himself is off limits.
Lily has her own issues surrounding her previous job (avoiding spoilers). Issues that weigh heavy in her, as well as trying to find a balance with Will, her one-time crush.
There are ups and downs for Will and Lily…can they find their way together?
A touching love story!
May 30, 2023
This book starts out with Lily being put in and awful situation there's a scandle brewing in the sports world and to protect some vulnerable girls she dose the write thing and exposes her boss Zach but it's already to late for one girl and the others parents don't want to listen now she's out of work 6 months later and she's working for the Gold Hockey Team and seeing her crush again after along time Will. Will lived with Lily's family when he was younger do to his mother not a good parental figure he needed stability and Lily's family provided that so when they ask him to look after her it brings about feelings he never knew he had but trying to get past them is hard for him he always thought about her as a younger sister now she's grown up if he pursues her it could ruin the only family he ever knew is love enough when his mother starts making waves in a new relationship and is Lily willing to trust Will after her last job she has huge trust issues. Another good read by theauthor and the Gold can't wait to read the next book. My only issue with this book you kind of have to guess at the scandle and Lily and Will had a hard time talking about there issues with each other.
I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book but also purchased a copy for myself and this is my honest review
I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book but also purchased a copy for myself and this is my honest review
June 2, 2023
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on May 30, 2023
Not even going to say this book is my favorite…ok maybe I will continue my tradition.
THIS book is my favorite Gold book.
Story is about Will and Lily.
The two were neighbors growing up however due to a 4 year age difference the two were never close. However Will spent many a night at the Cartwright’s dinner table.
Will’s own mother was not a steady or good influence in his life, by the authors descriptive writing, seems like she was mentally ill.
Having taken off after graduation and making a life as a professional hockey player, Will really only had telephone conversations with the family he respected immensely, that he had adopted, after leaving town for the San Francisco Gold hockey team.
Lily needs a place to stay when she makes a career and life change to the San Francisco Gold hockey team as a sports psychologist.
Now it’s Will’s chance to repay the family that helped him growing up by helping Lily become acclimated to the Townsend and the team.
Will he take his role too seriously or will the attraction that they have for each other win out?
And each of them having skeletons in the closet, what will happen when both are brought to fruition?
Read this emotional story to laugh, swoon, cry, and even throw book at wall
Highly recommend.
Not even going to say this book is my favorite…ok maybe I will continue my tradition.
THIS book is my favorite Gold book.
Story is about Will and Lily.
The two were neighbors growing up however due to a 4 year age difference the two were never close. However Will spent many a night at the Cartwright’s dinner table.
Will’s own mother was not a steady or good influence in his life, by the authors descriptive writing, seems like she was mentally ill.
Having taken off after graduation and making a life as a professional hockey player, Will really only had telephone conversations with the family he respected immensely, that he had adopted, after leaving town for the San Francisco Gold hockey team.
Lily needs a place to stay when she makes a career and life change to the San Francisco Gold hockey team as a sports psychologist.
Now it’s Will’s chance to repay the family that helped him growing up by helping Lily become acclimated to the Townsend and the team.
Will he take his role too seriously or will the attraction that they have for each other win out?
And each of them having skeletons in the closet, what will happen when both are brought to fruition?
Read this emotional story to laugh, swoon, cry, and even throw book at wall
Highly recommend.
May 23, 2023
Elise Faber wins with CRUSHED. I cannot believe this is book eighteen in the series. It is another excellent addition.
In this story, sports psychologist Lily Cartwright gets a new job with the San Francisco Gold. She is reunited with her childhood crush, Will Johansson. Will cannot believe his eyes when he sees Lily. She is no longer the younger girl he remembers when he was a billet with her family. He is attracted to Lily, but he doesn’t want to jeopardize his relationship with the Cartwright family.
Elise Faber does a great job with CRUSHED. The characters are likable. Lily is a strong heroine. She has good morals and stands up for what she believes in. Will did not have a great family life. The Cartwright’s are more of a family to him then his mother. He protects those he cares for.
The characters face thought-provoking obstacles. Of course, they have help from their nosy teammates/Gold family along the way. The story is relevant and entertaining. I am looking forward to the next book in the series, CHANGED. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
In this story, sports psychologist Lily Cartwright gets a new job with the San Francisco Gold. She is reunited with her childhood crush, Will Johansson. Will cannot believe his eyes when he sees Lily. She is no longer the younger girl he remembers when he was a billet with her family. He is attracted to Lily, but he doesn’t want to jeopardize his relationship with the Cartwright family.
Elise Faber does a great job with CRUSHED. The characters are likable. Lily is a strong heroine. She has good morals and stands up for what she believes in. Will did not have a great family life. The Cartwright’s are more of a family to him then his mother. He protects those he cares for.
The characters face thought-provoking obstacles. Of course, they have help from their nosy teammates/Gold family along the way. The story is relevant and entertaining. I am looking forward to the next book in the series, CHANGED. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
May 24, 2023
Will and Lily are pretty perfect for each other, but he can’t seem to stop putting his foot in his mouth when she first comes to live with him. She isn’t the little girl he remembers from his time living with her family. She is all grown up and he can’t seem to get her off of his mind. She has secretly wanted him from the time she was a teenager but had come to realize that it won’t happen.
As they get reacquainted, her feelings return and he starts realizing that he wants to be with her (he just has a lot of issues). His mom is a piece of work and I wish we could have seen him get some help for his mental issues (caused by his mom). She is guilt stricken because of something that happened to her and she doesn’t feel like she did enough- again seeing her get help would have been nice.
I really liked how they supported each other and helped the other grow. When the shoe drops and everything changes for them, I was holding my breath wondering how their relationship would survive. I loved this book, and the entire series. I can’t wait to see what happens next. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
As they get reacquainted, her feelings return and he starts realizing that he wants to be with her (he just has a lot of issues). His mom is a piece of work and I wish we could have seen him get some help for his mental issues (caused by his mom). She is guilt stricken because of something that happened to her and she doesn’t feel like she did enough- again seeing her get help would have been nice.
I really liked how they supported each other and helped the other grow. When the shoe drops and everything changes for them, I was holding my breath wondering how their relationship would survive. I loved this book, and the entire series. I can’t wait to see what happens next. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
May 24, 2023
Seeing what poor Lily has gone through over the past year would make any person go crazy. She lost her job after blowing the whistle of abuse on the girls she was protecting. Her boss, Zach, was a dirtbag and an A-1 abuser. But when she told the parents of the girls that they needed to get away from him, she was fired and blackballed in the industry.
Six months later, she's offered a job as a Sports Psychologist for the San Francisco Gold. It just so happens to be the same team where her High School crush plays - Will. He's also like a big brother to her. Her father asks Will to take care of her while she's there. How can she live under the same roof with him? Especially after he sees her naked.
The story is funny at times and sad at others. You feel bad for Lily when you find out about another issue from her last job. The death of one of the girls she was protecting. Lily still blames herself. She didn't protect her enough. The story with Will's mother is another doozy. But it does give lily the strength to come forward with the abuse story.
Lily & Will are made for each other. So glad they got a HEA they both needed!
Six months later, she's offered a job as a Sports Psychologist for the San Francisco Gold. It just so happens to be the same team where her High School crush plays - Will. He's also like a big brother to her. Her father asks Will to take care of her while she's there. How can she live under the same roof with him? Especially after he sees her naked.
The story is funny at times and sad at others. You feel bad for Lily when you find out about another issue from her last job. The death of one of the girls she was protecting. Lily still blames herself. She didn't protect her enough. The story with Will's mother is another doozy. But it does give lily the strength to come forward with the abuse story.
Lily & Will are made for each other. So glad they got a HEA they both needed!
May 24, 2023
When your life is turned upside down, what is there left to do? Sports psychologist Lily blows the horn on her employer for abusing girls on the hockey team she worked for. Now she has to start all over again. When she is offered a job with the San Francisco Gold team she jumps on it. Her childhood, Will, crush just happens to be a player for the same team. Little does she know that he has feelings for her but will bit act upon them because her family was like his when he was a billet with her family. The pull is there and the fight is strong but little by little the heart wins over. Someone from Will's past shows up and causes heartbreak and life decisions that affect more than just Will. Can Will see that his choices are not the best for him, Lily and the team?
Ms. Faber writes a story with characters that are relatable, easy to like even when they are making they are making the wrong choices and a storyline that is such a joy to read. Even though Crushed is book 18 in the series, Ms. Faber still delivers a story that is gripping, interesting and hard to put down.
I cannot wait for Lucas and Mads' story, which is her next one in this series.
Ms. Faber writes a story with characters that are relatable, easy to like even when they are making they are making the wrong choices and a storyline that is such a joy to read. Even though Crushed is book 18 in the series, Ms. Faber still delivers a story that is gripping, interesting and hard to put down.
I cannot wait for Lucas and Mads' story, which is her next one in this series.
May 23, 2023
I've started this series with book 10 so by now I'm a huge fan of Gold's. And Lily and Will's story is another great addition to it.
They've known each other since they were kids. Will has spent a lot of time at her house as a teen. But they haven't seen each other for a decade and things have changed quite a bit in that time. The shock of seeing Lily all grown up, has Will reacting not in a nice way. And Lily has had a few thought years and is not willing to be pushed around again. But she slowly lets down her wall and they find a way to move forward and try to see where their feelings will take them.
But life is not always easy and soon they're faced with deciding if they should let each other go or fight and come a winner on the other side.
This HEA will leave you with a great sense of peace especially with how Lily's story unfolds, but that epilogue left me with my mouth open and now I'm super excited to get my hands on the next book. Someone has some growling to do :)
They've known each other since they were kids. Will has spent a lot of time at her house as a teen. But they haven't seen each other for a decade and things have changed quite a bit in that time. The shock of seeing Lily all grown up, has Will reacting not in a nice way. And Lily has had a few thought years and is not willing to be pushed around again. But she slowly lets down her wall and they find a way to move forward and try to see where their feelings will take them.
But life is not always easy and soon they're faced with deciding if they should let each other go or fight and come a winner on the other side.
This HEA will leave you with a great sense of peace especially with how Lily's story unfolds, but that epilogue left me with my mouth open and now I'm super excited to get my hands on the next book. Someone has some growling to do :)
May 26, 2023
This was a sweet unexpected romance. Will and Lily met years ago when he did a hockey billet at her home. He was 16 and she was 12 and she had a major crush on him. Years later they are back in each others lives because she needs a fresh start. I really enjoyed these characters. Though I think their communication sucked. At one point they each had something "haunting" come up and instead of talking they tried to shut the other person out and break up with them. Not cool. Then we have all the supporting characters. There is no not loving them. We've seen most of them in prior books and we already know how awesome they can be.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes. Were these characters my favorites? No but I did enjoy getting to knlw them and their lack of angst.. though I was so happy when Lily got over her guilt. She tried to take on the world and unfortunately the world took her on. Oh and Will's mom, yeah no... no.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review*
Did I enjoy this book? Yes. Were these characters my favorites? No but I did enjoy getting to knlw them and their lack of angst.. though I was so happy when Lily got over her guilt. She tried to take on the world and unfortunately the world took her on. Oh and Will's mom, yeah no... no.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review*
May 20, 2023
Another wonderful book in the Gold Hockey series! I don't know how long Elise Faber plans to continue with this series, but I will be there until the end. This book also has me wondering how Elise will handle Brit's retirement, as I know it's coming. It's been alluded to in a couple stories now.
Will and Lily's story was enjoyable. It had tense moments, steamy moments, as well as laughter and tears. I get why Elise said the relationship was forbidden, but to me it wasn't. That was more of a mental block for Will than a truly forbidden situation. If it was in regards to being in the workplace, well Gold readers already know that workplace relationships are no issue for the organization. The third act breakup was heartbreaking, but that made their reunion so much the better. Also that grand gesture? SO GOOD!
I also loved the set up for the next book, and you already know I'll be reading it. Lucas and Maddy's story will be filled with enemies to lovers and hate to love.
Will and Lily's story was enjoyable. It had tense moments, steamy moments, as well as laughter and tears. I get why Elise said the relationship was forbidden, but to me it wasn't. That was more of a mental block for Will than a truly forbidden situation. If it was in regards to being in the workplace, well Gold readers already know that workplace relationships are no issue for the organization. The third act breakup was heartbreaking, but that made their reunion so much the better. Also that grand gesture? SO GOOD!
I also loved the set up for the next book, and you already know I'll be reading it. Lucas and Maddy's story will be filled with enemies to lovers and hate to love.
May 24, 2023
Crushed, book eighteen in the Gold Hockey series takes a steamy spin to a friends to lovers story. Will lived with Lily’s family years earlier when they volunteered as a billet family while he was playing hockey as a teenager. Now, years later their worlds have collided again with Lily being hired as the sports psychologist for the Gold. Lily is no longer the young girl Will remembers and Will has only become hotter in Lily’s eyes.
Lily’s identity has been kept a secret for a case where she was a whistleblower for her previous team as she tried to protect the girls on the team and when that information gets into the wrong hands their relationship is threatened.
Will has his own baggage with his indifferent mother. So, when she finally pays attention to his career it is for all the wrong reasons.
Can Will and Lily finally find the happiness that they both deserve? Read, enjoy and find out for yourself if and how they work through all the challenges thrown at them.
Lily’s identity has been kept a secret for a case where she was a whistleblower for her previous team as she tried to protect the girls on the team and when that information gets into the wrong hands their relationship is threatened.
Will has his own baggage with his indifferent mother. So, when she finally pays attention to his career it is for all the wrong reasons.
Can Will and Lily finally find the happiness that they both deserve? Read, enjoy and find out for yourself if and how they work through all the challenges thrown at them.
May 21, 2023
Will did not have the best support system when he was growing up however the opportunity to stay with Lily’s family while he played hockey as a teenager showed him what family truly is. When Lily’s father reaches out to him asking him to look out for Lily as she will be joining the team he is conflicted between what his heart wants and what head tells him he should do.
Doing the right thing resulted in Lily losing her job. With her reputation tarnished she wasn’t sure what her next step would be until she is approached by the Gold with a job opportunity she can’t turn down which brings Will back into her life.
Their was no denying the love between them and their friends and teammates are there to ensure that they don’t allow their pasts to derail what they are meant to have together.
Doing the right thing resulted in Lily losing her job. With her reputation tarnished she wasn’t sure what her next step would be until she is approached by the Gold with a job opportunity she can’t turn down which brings Will back into her life.
Their was no denying the love between them and their friends and teammates are there to ensure that they don’t allow their pasts to derail what they are meant to have together.
May 23, 2023
Gold Hockey #18
Lily Cartwright is a sports psychologist. When her job creates problems and she tries to fix it only to find more problems become of it, she's out of a job. Six months have passed and the GM of the San Francisco Gold hockey team is at her door with a job offer.
The job with the Gold is for Lily to put together a program to protect the mental health of her players. One of the benefits of this job is that a family friend, Will Johansson is one of the players. His job per her dad is to look after her.
Will is shocked to see Lily all grown up. She has had a crush on him for years. When they start getting close he pulls back because he's supposed to protect her.
Lily has gone through a lot with the problems from her last job. Will also has issues with his mom. Can the two of them work through it all and find a balance and be together?
4 stars
Lily Cartwright is a sports psychologist. When her job creates problems and she tries to fix it only to find more problems become of it, she's out of a job. Six months have passed and the GM of the San Francisco Gold hockey team is at her door with a job offer.
The job with the Gold is for Lily to put together a program to protect the mental health of her players. One of the benefits of this job is that a family friend, Will Johansson is one of the players. His job per her dad is to look after her.
Will is shocked to see Lily all grown up. She has had a crush on him for years. When they start getting close he pulls back because he's supposed to protect her.
Lily has gone through a lot with the problems from her last job. Will also has issues with his mom. Can the two of them work through it all and find a balance and be together?
4 stars
May 20, 2023
This is an enthralling friends to lovers story. When Will, a Gold NHL player was in juniors he was billeted with the Carpenter family. It was the only experience he has ever had with a normal family. So he considers the Carpenters family. But when Lily shows up in San Francisco to work for The Gold, all bets are off! She’s not a kid any more, but a smart, accomplished woman. And, even more beautiful than when she was a teenager! But he’s put her in the little sister zone. The only way he can think to stop his reaction to her is by being an a**hole! An that works for a while!
Beautifully written with all the recurring San Francisco Gold players, hot hockey players, strong women, and plenty of steam!
Beautifully written with all the recurring San Francisco Gold players, hot hockey players, strong women, and plenty of steam!
May 22, 2023
I was late to the game for the Gold Hockey Series so I’m playing catch-up and I have to say every book I have read in this series has been entertaining, well written and enjoyable. This is Will and Lily’s emotional and steamy journey and it’s a story that will appeal to a wide range of readers.
Will never meant to fall for Lily, the Gold’s sports psychologist and the daughter of the man he sees as a father. So will Will or Lily be prepared to cross the line and risk her father’s disappointment in them both….
The journey wasn’t easy and there are a few twists and turns in this emotional read but the characters are easy to love and I found myself cheering his couple on. Great addition to the series.
Will never meant to fall for Lily, the Gold’s sports psychologist and the daughter of the man he sees as a father. So will Will or Lily be prepared to cross the line and risk her father’s disappointment in them both….
The journey wasn’t easy and there are a few twists and turns in this emotional read but the characters are easy to love and I found myself cheering his couple on. Great addition to the series.
May 23, 2023
I absolutely love the Gold hockey family! The dynamics between all the players and franchise personnel is fantastic! I love the concept of found family romances and this is the biggest one of them all. 𝗖𝗥𝗨𝗦𝗛𝗘𝗗 is the 18th book and is Will and Lily’s childhood friends to lovers romance. Will and Lily met when her family was his billet family. She crushed on the older boy, hard. He saw her as a little sister. When the two are brought together again, things have changed and the sexual tension is intense. I enjoyed watching them get together even if Will got on my nerves a bit. No worries, he redeemed himself pretty fast! I’m giving 𝗖𝗥𝗨𝗦𝗛𝗘𝗗 the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval, TBR and Enjoy!
May 31, 2023
I have really enjoyed the Gold series. Crushed just didn't hold my attention like the previous books though. The beginning had potential, I thought the conflict of Will and Lily's relationship was believable and relatable. Will was a nice guy who obviously cared about his friends and family and was willing to do anything for them. Lily had a lot of heavy stuff to deal with, which was unfortunately also very believable. The hesitation to get involved at the start of the book made sense, but most of the book consisted of them waffling between attraction and denial. It seemed to drag on, but wasn't really angsty since the only thing stopping them from being together was their own minds. Despite that, the lead up for Lucas and Maddy has me counting the days until release.
May 19, 2023
4 Star Review Crushed (Gold Hockey #18) by Elise Faber
I haven't read all the books in the Gold Hockey series, but the ones I have read I found to be well written and entertaining. The last thing that Will wants is to be attracted to Lily, the Gold’s sports psychologist, the daughter of the man he regards as the father figure in his life.
Crushed was an emotional and steamy read as Will and Lily re connect. She should be off limits and yet the attraction he feels for her and the connection between them is deep and becomes impossible to ignore.
Their journey was challenging, particularly since Will’s mother is interfering and not very nice but it was worth it in the end.
I haven't read all the books in the Gold Hockey series, but the ones I have read I found to be well written and entertaining. The last thing that Will wants is to be attracted to Lily, the Gold’s sports psychologist, the daughter of the man he regards as the father figure in his life.
Crushed was an emotional and steamy read as Will and Lily re connect. She should be off limits and yet the attraction he feels for her and the connection between them is deep and becomes impossible to ignore.
Their journey was challenging, particularly since Will’s mother is interfering and not very nice but it was worth it in the end.
May 19, 2023
This series has all the feels...
Another fabulous Gold hockey romance!! Both these characters have issues, but as they learn to trust each other and give in to the attraction, their romance blossoms. You can feel the chemistry between them. Will makes some mistakes in dealing with Lil, but he does learn from them. I always love seeing the characters from previous reads in the series, got to love Brit! Although, I do think these can also be stand alones. I am really looking forward to Maddy's story. I love Elise Faber and this series!
I received an ARC of this book, all opinions and thoughts are my own.
Another fabulous Gold hockey romance!! Both these characters have issues, but as they learn to trust each other and give in to the attraction, their romance blossoms. You can feel the chemistry between them. Will makes some mistakes in dealing with Lil, but he does learn from them. I always love seeing the characters from previous reads in the series, got to love Brit! Although, I do think these can also be stand alones. I am really looking forward to Maddy's story. I love Elise Faber and this series!
I received an ARC of this book, all opinions and thoughts are my own.
May 20, 2023
Crushed is an amazing read. This is Will's story. Friends for years, Will and Lily are thrown together when Lily needs a change. Lily love what she does and works hard to give her players the support they need. She does not stand back but takes action when she sees what is happening. Will is a little grumpy and a talented player who has a rocky relationship with his mom. Will doesn't do relationships until Lily comes along. I love their banter and bond of years of knowing each other. Even with the rocky moments you will have a smile on your face. Lily and Will have crushed on each other for years and you will just love how everything goes down. I cannot wait for more Gold Hockey to come.
May 22, 2023
Lily is a sports therapist who becomes a whistle-blower when the coach is too everything. Of course she loses her job but her name is kept out of the public domain.
Lily's parents looked after Will when he was training for hockey, he now plays for the Gold. Her father has now asked that Will looks after Lily, but the feelings he has for her aren't feelings he thinks her father would be pleased with!!!
Will's mother is not reliable and very selfish. She's causing problems. Can Will and Lily overcome the problems?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Another a great read in the series from Elise
Lily's parents looked after Will when he was training for hockey, he now plays for the Gold. Her father has now asked that Will looks after Lily, but the feelings he has for her aren't feelings he thinks her father would be pleased with!!!
Will's mother is not reliable and very selfish. She's causing problems. Can Will and Lily overcome the problems?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Another a great read in the series from Elise
May 23, 2023
Will agrees to keep an eye on Lily when she moves to San Francisco, but he doesn't anticipate that the young girl who had a crush on him, is now a beautiful woman who appeals to every man's wet dream. Within a few days, Will has behaved atrociously towards Lily as he struggles to control his desires toward her. He works hard to make amends and starts to break down Lily's defenses, but she is very vulnerable and this turns into a beautiful friends to lovers romance. In Will's mind, it is forbidden fruit, but that isn't Lily's opinion.
Even after 18 books, this series does not disappoint. I love this series and Ms. Faber's style of writing, gives me those feel good vibes every time.
Even after 18 books, this series does not disappoint. I love this series and Ms. Faber's style of writing, gives me those feel good vibes every time.
May 27, 2023
I went back and forth with this review. First, I thought the supporting characters were the best part. Maybe it was because I haven’t read the rest of the Gold series, but for some reason these two characters did not jive. I felt like any deepening of the characters wasn’t there, each had their own “situation” and instead of talking them out like normal people they just shut down. I mean Lily is a sports psychologist, I guess. It never really explained her situation. Will’s mom (his situation) was never explained. I have a lot of questions and not many answers. But apparently she liked pancakes?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews