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The Copper Valley Thrusters #1
The Pilot & the Puck-Up
He’s the biggest, baddest, most spider-fearing motherpucker on the ice…
When you’re named after the king of the gods, the world expects certain things of you.
Tough? Damn right.
Smart? Don’t let the hockey uniform fool you.
Large and in charge? Honey, I’m the biggest, baddest, mother pucking-est machine to ever own the ice. I shoot. I score. In and out of the rink. I don’t come early, but I come often, if you know what I mean. And I always leave the ladies wanting more.
Until that chick last night.
I’m no one-thrust wonder, and you’re damn right I’m going to prove to her I can do better. But every time I think I’m finally on my way back into her pants, she one-ups and out-balls me.
I should cut my losses, lick my wounds, and walk away.
But Zeus Berger doesn’t walk away from anything.
Especially when she's the only woman in the world who might be able to handle me.
When you’re named after the king of the gods, the world expects certain things of you.
Tough? Damn right.
Smart? Don’t let the hockey uniform fool you.
Large and in charge? Honey, I’m the biggest, baddest, mother pucking-est machine to ever own the ice. I shoot. I score. In and out of the rink. I don’t come early, but I come often, if you know what I mean. And I always leave the ladies wanting more.
Until that chick last night.
I’m no one-thrust wonder, and you’re damn right I’m going to prove to her I can do better. But every time I think I’m finally on my way back into her pants, she one-ups and out-balls me.
I should cut my losses, lick my wounds, and walk away.
But Zeus Berger doesn’t walk away from anything.
Especially when she's the only woman in the world who might be able to handle me.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 16, 2018
4609 people are currently reading
5577 people want to read
About the author
Pippa Grant
66 books10.7k followersPippa Grant wanted to write books, so she did.
Before she became a USA Today and #1 Amazon bestselling romantic comedy author, she was a young military spouse who got into writing as self-therapy. That happened around the time she discovered reading romance novels, and the two eventually merged into a career. Today, she has more than 30 knee-slapping Pippa Grant titles and nine published under the name Jamie Farrell.
When she’s not writing romantic comedies, she’s fumbling through being a mom, wife, and mountain woman, and sometimes tries to find hobbies. Her crowning achievement? Having impeccable timing for telling stories that will make people snort beverages out of their noses. Consider yourself warned.
Before she became a USA Today and #1 Amazon bestselling romantic comedy author, she was a young military spouse who got into writing as self-therapy. That happened around the time she discovered reading romance novels, and the two eventually merged into a career. Today, she has more than 30 knee-slapping Pippa Grant titles and nine published under the name Jamie Farrell.
When she’s not writing romantic comedies, she’s fumbling through being a mom, wife, and mountain woman, and sometimes tries to find hobbies. Her crowning achievement? Having impeccable timing for telling stories that will make people snort beverages out of their noses. Consider yourself warned.
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January 7, 2020
The Pilot & the Puck-Up is a stand alone sports rom-com by Pippa Grant. The characters do recur from one book to another but it is not required to read any of them in order to enjoy this.
Zeus Berger is a professional hockey player, a huge man, feared on the ice, as is his twin brother, Ares. Zeus and his brother are both known for their abilities on the ice, and their antics off the ice. People expect it of him and he is happy to comply. Because of his size, people tend to take him at face value. Women want to hook up with him because of who he is. But no one looks deeper. No one knows how smart he really is. No one bothers to see, until he met her.
“The Brute they call him. On the ice? Yeah. Off the ice? He’s a teddy bear.”
Josephine (Joey) Diamonte (aka Fireball) is a pilot for her and her partner’s company, Weightless. She is a no nonsense, former military woman who tends to get thought of more as one of the guys. She’s okay with that. She’s accustomed to it. But then Zeus walked up to her and all her lady parts woke up.
“This woman! She’s different. Stronger. Smarter. Harder. She’s got something inside her, something driving her, that I want to touch. Want to see and feel. Understand.”
Joey and Zeus had that instant zing between them but let’s just say their first couple of attempts to be together didn’t go so well. They were off to a rocky start. Zeus knew he should walk away. He was getting ready to start spring training soon. He was not a relationship kind of guy. But he couldn’t get her off his mind.
These two were so much fun to read about. Both were so lonely, even though they didn’t really see it. But they saw so much in each other that no one else saw. They got each other. They understood each other.
Right away on the first page, you are introduced to Zeus’s crazy hilarity. I do have to admit that even though I’ve read several of these books, it’s been awhile. And I spent some time a bit confused with all the secondary characters. But after a few chapters, it all started falling into place.
This is what I would call an over the top rom-com. The antics are crazy. But it also has so many sweet moments. Both of these two had so much to offer. No one ever bothered to notice until they met each other. As they finally find their way, these two steam up the pages with their sizzling chemistry.
I also want to be sure to mention that if you are a member of Pippa’s news letter, there are extended epilogues for I believe ALL of her books. This one had three short little extended epilogues and they were adorable. I loved them.
So, if you want to snort laugh, maybe swoon a little bit, and just smile a lot, then give this a try. The next book on my Pippa reading schedule is Royally Pucked.
For more about this book and so many more, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Zeus Berger is a professional hockey player, a huge man, feared on the ice, as is his twin brother, Ares. Zeus and his brother are both known for their abilities on the ice, and their antics off the ice. People expect it of him and he is happy to comply. Because of his size, people tend to take him at face value. Women want to hook up with him because of who he is. But no one looks deeper. No one knows how smart he really is. No one bothers to see, until he met her.
“The Brute they call him. On the ice? Yeah. Off the ice? He’s a teddy bear.”
Josephine (Joey) Diamonte (aka Fireball) is a pilot for her and her partner’s company, Weightless. She is a no nonsense, former military woman who tends to get thought of more as one of the guys. She’s okay with that. She’s accustomed to it. But then Zeus walked up to her and all her lady parts woke up.
“This woman! She’s different. Stronger. Smarter. Harder. She’s got something inside her, something driving her, that I want to touch. Want to see and feel. Understand.”
Joey and Zeus had that instant zing between them but let’s just say their first couple of attempts to be together didn’t go so well. They were off to a rocky start. Zeus knew he should walk away. He was getting ready to start spring training soon. He was not a relationship kind of guy. But he couldn’t get her off his mind.
These two were so much fun to read about. Both were so lonely, even though they didn’t really see it. But they saw so much in each other that no one else saw. They got each other. They understood each other.
Right away on the first page, you are introduced to Zeus’s crazy hilarity. I do have to admit that even though I’ve read several of these books, it’s been awhile. And I spent some time a bit confused with all the secondary characters. But after a few chapters, it all started falling into place.
This is what I would call an over the top rom-com. The antics are crazy. But it also has so many sweet moments. Both of these two had so much to offer. No one ever bothered to notice until they met each other. As they finally find their way, these two steam up the pages with their sizzling chemistry.
I also want to be sure to mention that if you are a member of Pippa’s news letter, there are extended epilogues for I believe ALL of her books. This one had three short little extended epilogues and they were adorable. I loved them.
So, if you want to snort laugh, maybe swoon a little bit, and just smile a lot, then give this a try. The next book on my Pippa reading schedule is Royally Pucked.
For more about this book and so many more, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
February 16, 2018
You know what I loved about this book?
Zeus!!
He was everything that was awesome in this story. From his awkwardness at being large in small situations, to his no shame and no filter, to his confidence, to his absolutely enormous heart, this man won my affection within the first chapter.
The way the author described Zeus, and I mean physically, I was on the hunt to find a man like him to visually fantasize about on Google. I found tons!! Way to many to share. Just go look for yourself. Well, do that after you read what Pippa Grant has to say about Zeus. Then you’ll know why Zeus really got my juices flowing ;)
Zeus and Joey Fireball, a female pilot he met at a party when he was dressed as a female hooker troll (don’t ask… READ THE BOOK!!), were on the one-night stand that could. They kept trying… well, he kept trying and I admired this man’s refusal to call it quits. His determination to win over the stubborn and fierce woman of his dreams was something to be admired. And every time he broke the fourth wall had me cracking the hell up!
Seriously, Zeus alone should make you want to read this book. He was a giant hockey player, intimidating on and off the ice, who had such a gentle heart and soul. I loved everything about him. Even when it got to Joey’s POV, I couldn’t help but zip through them so I could get back to my beloved Zeus. Now I can’t wait for his twin brother, Ares, to get a happy ending of his very own.
Release: Feb. 16, 2018 | Genre: Romantic Comedy | POV: Dual - 1st person | Heat: 4 out of 5 | Standalone - character crossover
The way the author described Zeus, and I mean physically, I was on the hunt to find a man like him to visually fantasize about on Google. I found tons!! Way to many to share. Just go look for yourself. Well, do that after you read what Pippa Grant has to say about Zeus. Then you’ll know why Zeus really got my juices flowing ;)
Zeus and Joey Fireball, a female pilot he met at a party when he was dressed as a female hooker troll (don’t ask… READ THE BOOK!!), were on the one-night stand that could. They kept trying… well, he kept trying and I admired this man’s refusal to call it quits. His determination to win over the stubborn and fierce woman of his dreams was something to be admired. And every time he broke the fourth wall had me cracking the hell up!
Seriously, Zeus alone should make you want to read this book. He was a giant hockey player, intimidating on and off the ice, who had such a gentle heart and soul. I loved everything about him. Even when it got to Joey’s POV, I couldn’t help but zip through them so I could get back to my beloved Zeus. Now I can’t wait for his twin brother, Ares, to get a happy ending of his very own.
Release: Feb. 16, 2018 | Genre: Romantic Comedy | POV: Dual - 1st person | Heat: 4 out of 5 | Standalone - character crossover
February 5, 2018
3.5 Stars
Review to come.......................
Review to come.......................
Read
February 16, 2018DNF @39%
Here's what didn't work for me...
The pilot—Joey “Fireball” Diamonte is probably pushing thirty, runs her own business (which has her hobnobbing with celebrities), attended college, and served a six year stint in the military. And yet despite all those life experiences surrounded by men, she’s never gotten down and jiggy with one.
This manwhore/virgin trope has grown so stale it just tastes bad at this point. Why aren’t these heroines allowed to have had some fun??? What is the appeal of having a woman hold on to her virginity for a decade past the point where she turned legal only to lose it to some guy who has enough notches on his bedpost to draw a stick figure village?
Even more mind boggling is that the only man who seems to waken her drowsy woman bits is the loud ass, large dude who she likens to a wooly mammoth and happens to be at a golf country club wearing a dress and bra stacked with coconuts.
While I’m sure the tone was aimed at romcom, the romantic part was missing. It seemed more like the Wayans brothers got a hold of a contemporary romance book and turned it into one of their skits. I mean, the hero is described as smelling like man sweat, beer, and fried cheese in one scene and Joey is still considering letting him go down on her. Yeah, definitely more of a parody of a romance than an actual one. And don’t get me started on Joey’s undergarments.
Meanwhile, we’re told a few too many times that’s she’s “badass,” which pretty much ensures that she’s not! She comes across as cold rather than caring, brash rather than ballsy, and cocky rather than confident. She treats her 26 year old sister like a child, and I was starting to really wonder about her obsessive need to interfere in her sister’s social/love life. It got to the point where her cock-blocking was creepy.
“One day, when I pick a man good enough for her, she’ll give me nieces and nephews…”
When I pick???
Okay, let’s add controlling and bossy to her characterization description too.
And then there’s Zeus Berger, 30, pro hockey player. He’s also cocky (not to be confused with confident), obnoxious, and immature. While he proclaims to not care what people think of him, he sure goes out of his way to get their attention. On one hand, they are made for each other; on the other...well I never thought I’d say this in a romance, but for one time—just this once—I was rooting for him to go hook up with someone else.
I know, I know, I usually rail against that in a romance, but the romantic vibe here was just that lacking, and I actually felt bad for the jerk after the way she treated him over the whole pre-ejaculatory incident. Or the fire drill that wasn’t even his fault.
And the more I mentally rooted for him to ditch Fireball and screw anything else that was more pleasant, alongside growing bored over their golf game, I realized it was time to throw in the towel on this one.
If you’ve ever wondered how Mr. and Mrs. Neanderthal courted, well then this might be one to give a whirl. But if you prefer both your heroine and hero to have social skills more advanced than a toddler, this is one pass the puck on by.
*I volunteered to review this ARC. All reviews written by Book-Bosomed Book Blog are honest opinions. In the interest of providing unbiased book reviews and to avoid misleading other readers, it is the blog’s policy not to withhold or delay any reviews no matter the star rating. To the best of my knowledge, this title was presented to the blog without any conditions or stipulations.
Here's what didn't work for me...
The pilot—Joey “Fireball” Diamonte is probably pushing thirty, runs her own business (which has her hobnobbing with celebrities), attended college, and served a six year stint in the military. And yet despite all those life experiences surrounded by men, she’s never gotten down and jiggy with one.
This manwhore/virgin trope has grown so stale it just tastes bad at this point. Why aren’t these heroines allowed to have had some fun??? What is the appeal of having a woman hold on to her virginity for a decade past the point where she turned legal only to lose it to some guy who has enough notches on his bedpost to draw a stick figure village?
Even more mind boggling is that the only man who seems to waken her drowsy woman bits is the loud ass, large dude who she likens to a wooly mammoth and happens to be at a golf country club wearing a dress and bra stacked with coconuts.
While I’m sure the tone was aimed at romcom, the romantic part was missing. It seemed more like the Wayans brothers got a hold of a contemporary romance book and turned it into one of their skits. I mean, the hero is described as smelling like man sweat, beer, and fried cheese in one scene and Joey is still considering letting him go down on her. Yeah, definitely more of a parody of a romance than an actual one. And don’t get me started on Joey’s undergarments.
Meanwhile, we’re told a few too many times that’s she’s “badass,” which pretty much ensures that she’s not! She comes across as cold rather than caring, brash rather than ballsy, and cocky rather than confident. She treats her 26 year old sister like a child, and I was starting to really wonder about her obsessive need to interfere in her sister’s social/love life. It got to the point where her cock-blocking was creepy.
“One day, when I pick a man good enough for her, she’ll give me nieces and nephews…”
When I pick???
Okay, let’s add controlling and bossy to her characterization description too.
And then there’s Zeus Berger, 30, pro hockey player. He’s also cocky (not to be confused with confident), obnoxious, and immature. While he proclaims to not care what people think of him, he sure goes out of his way to get their attention. On one hand, they are made for each other; on the other...well I never thought I’d say this in a romance, but for one time—just this once—I was rooting for him to go hook up with someone else.
I know, I know, I usually rail against that in a romance, but the romantic vibe here was just that lacking, and I actually felt bad for the jerk after the way she treated him over the whole pre-ejaculatory incident. Or the fire drill that wasn’t even his fault.
And the more I mentally rooted for him to ditch Fireball and screw anything else that was more pleasant, alongside growing bored over their golf game, I realized it was time to throw in the towel on this one.
If you’ve ever wondered how Mr. and Mrs. Neanderthal courted, well then this might be one to give a whirl. But if you prefer both your heroine and hero to have social skills more advanced than a toddler, this is one pass the puck on by.
*I volunteered to review this ARC. All reviews written by Book-Bosomed Book Blog are honest opinions. In the interest of providing unbiased book reviews and to avoid misleading other readers, it is the blog’s policy not to withhold or delay any reviews no matter the star rating. To the best of my knowledge, this title was presented to the blog without any conditions or stipulations.
February 16, 2018
I am ashamed of myself. And yes, I see the irony of the fact that it took a fictional character to get me to open my eyes and realize that I am guilty of judging a book, or two, by its cover. (And in this case the books would be a large and in charge hockey player hiding a heart of gold, and a balls to the wall chick, with an attitude to match, who has never found anyone strong enough to handle her.)
Zeus Berger probably came out of his mother's womb half-man. I say half because there had to be enough room in there for his twin, Ares, as well. And yes, he is enormous- in size, in personality, in ego and well, somewhere else that it counts, as well. (Foot size!! I'm talking about feet, people!!) On the ice, his nickname, The Brute, is true to form. He's a take no prisoners kind of player. And both on the ice and off he sees what he wants and he goes after it. He loves pranks, can never say no to a bet, and is accustomed to getting his way. Until Joey Fireball Diamonte crosses his path.
Essentially Zeus in female form, Joey is badass. Former military special ops turned pilot, she owns her own company which specializes in zero-G flights. She's a little short on charm, and long on ummm, balls? Her motto, in EVERY aspect of her life, is, 'if you want something done right, do it yourself'. And all she wants right now? Is for someone to invest in her company in order to make it competitive in space exploration and training. It's her sole focus at the moment. At least, it was, before a cross-dressing hockey player with a competitive edge turned his focus on her.
Joey and Zeus are two of a kind. Confident, successful, larger than life. But there is SO much more to them. And Pippa Grant's unbelievable writing ability allows the softer sides of these phenomenal characters to surface. Outwardly they are both driven and cocky. But as the story continues and layers are peeled back, we are able to see the depth of their love for family, their vulnerabilities, Zeus's hidden intelligence and love for baking from scratch and the secret Joey has been hiding for a decade, or longer.
I adored Chase and Bro in Mr. McHottie. I swooned over Knox and Parker in Stud in the Stacks. But I have completely fallen in love, heart and soul with Zeus and Joey. Pippa Grant has a hat trick for sure.
Zeus Berger probably came out of his mother's womb half-man. I say half because there had to be enough room in there for his twin, Ares, as well. And yes, he is enormous- in size, in personality, in ego and well, somewhere else that it counts, as well. (Foot size!! I'm talking about feet, people!!) On the ice, his nickname, The Brute, is true to form. He's a take no prisoners kind of player. And both on the ice and off he sees what he wants and he goes after it. He loves pranks, can never say no to a bet, and is accustomed to getting his way. Until Joey Fireball Diamonte crosses his path.
Essentially Zeus in female form, Joey is badass. Former military special ops turned pilot, she owns her own company which specializes in zero-G flights. She's a little short on charm, and long on ummm, balls? Her motto, in EVERY aspect of her life, is, 'if you want something done right, do it yourself'. And all she wants right now? Is for someone to invest in her company in order to make it competitive in space exploration and training. It's her sole focus at the moment. At least, it was, before a cross-dressing hockey player with a competitive edge turned his focus on her.
Joey and Zeus are two of a kind. Confident, successful, larger than life. But there is SO much more to them. And Pippa Grant's unbelievable writing ability allows the softer sides of these phenomenal characters to surface. Outwardly they are both driven and cocky. But as the story continues and layers are peeled back, we are able to see the depth of their love for family, their vulnerabilities, Zeus's hidden intelligence and love for baking from scratch and the secret Joey has been hiding for a decade, or longer.
I adored Chase and Bro in Mr. McHottie. I swooned over Knox and Parker in Stud in the Stacks. But I have completely fallen in love, heart and soul with Zeus and Joey. Pippa Grant has a hat trick for sure.
February 17, 2018
First person, Dual-POV, HAE. Standalone.
Ever since reading Stud in the Stacks, every single Pippa Grant book gets rocketed to the top of my faves list. Filled with laughs, heart-felt emotion; I can't put them down.
"Call me Fireball. I don't wear lipstick."
"Damn, girl, could've fooled me. Think I need to know your secret."
"I eat my enemies for breakfast and wear their blood the rest of the day."
Joey is a bad-ass. Works and plays just as hard as the boys, and typically bests them in almost everything. She runs a company that ... get this... operates ZERO. GRAVITY. PLANES.
Yeah... These...
Seriously impressive.
Zeus is a mountain. One of the biggest, burliest men of the NHL. Also, a prankster and takes pleasure in making people uncomfortable. We open the story with him in a dress and a fancy party so... yeah, you can make your own assumptions.
Both characters meet at this party, her looking for an investor and him winning a bet (see: dress).
He's so fascinated by her tough outer exterior and her killer body that he makes another bet. He says he can get her, even dressed like he is. And it works... for the most part.
After several instances of interrupted love-making, both would typically just cut and run at this point, but for some reason they don't want to.
They have a side that no one else sees, but they see it in each other, and that's making it really difficult to walk away.
All in this eency-weency slice of space where Zeus is teasing my climax harder and longer and deeper with those talented fingers, making my world so small he encompasses the entirety of my existence while also making me feel like I own the whole fucking galaxy.
Their back-and-forth taunting of each other, their more intimately emotional scenes, all of it was a win for me. And seeing the layers beneath their own individual bravado was so satisfying.
Plus, Chase and Bro from Mister McHottie are featured heavily and I LOVE THEM. Seriously, read these books if you're in the mood for a pick me up. They never fail to have me rolling one second, and swooning the next.
I just know this woman - my Joey - she's a miracle.
She's my fucking miracle.
'Til next time cuties ;)
February 15, 2018
Okay, seriously, I need a moment for my stomach muscles to relax and for me to dry my tears from laughing so freakin' hard at The Pilot & the Puck-Up. OMG, I haven't had that much fun reading a book in a very long time! This was my first book by Pippa Grant but it will not be the last!
I loved Zeus and Joey. Loved how they interacted. Loved the snark. Loved the banter. Loved how they just connected and got each other. Their relationship was very real, developed on a real time frame. Fun, sexy perfection.
And I'd be remiss in not mentioning how awesome the secondary characters were too. I loved the relationship between Joey and her sister, Gracie. Zeus and his twin, Ares, were so fun and some serious brotherly antics interjected. And Chase and Ambrosia, Zeus' sister, were amazing too. Ambrosia didn't let her brothers or Chase get away with anything.
So much fun. I'm diving into the other interconnected books soon, up first is Mister McHottie and will be quickly followed by Stud In the Stacks. I cannot wait! ~ Missy, 5 stars
I loved Zeus and Joey. Loved how they interacted. Loved the snark. Loved the banter. Loved how they just connected and got each other. Their relationship was very real, developed on a real time frame. Fun, sexy perfection.
And I'd be remiss in not mentioning how awesome the secondary characters were too. I loved the relationship between Joey and her sister, Gracie. Zeus and his twin, Ares, were so fun and some serious brotherly antics interjected. And Chase and Ambrosia, Zeus' sister, were amazing too. Ambrosia didn't let her brothers or Chase get away with anything.
So much fun. I'm diving into the other interconnected books soon, up first is Mister McHottie and will be quickly followed by Stud In the Stacks. I cannot wait! ~ Missy, 5 stars
March 27, 2021
4 stars
I love Pippa Grant's writing style - her books always have a great sense of humor, and this was no exception. My only issue with this one was that I really didn't feel like I connected much with the h (Joey "Fireball"), but I LOVED the H (Zeus Berger). Maybe because we have met Zeus in previous books?
I would HIGHLY recommend reading Mister McHottie
before this book bc the h in that story is Zeus's sister, and the H is his best friend from childhood, so he is in their book, and they are in this one quite a bit.
Zeus Berger is one of the giant set of twins that have been dominant in the NHL since they hit the ice, and his nickname is "The Brute." He is an enforcer, meaning he is best at defense, but he still gets plenty of puck into the goal... on and off the rink. But when he is dared by his royal teammate (Manning Frey, who really is a prince, but, as he puts it, the expendable kind bc he is pretty far down the inheritance rung) to show up to a charity event in full drag and get a woman to hook up with him, he is 100% committed to making that happen. When you're named after the king of the gods, you have to wear confidence like a second skin.
Joey (call sign "Fireball" bc she's a badass pilot) Diamonte is not a virgin.... Well, technically, she is in the sense of never having sex with a man (though one of her favorite toys took care of her "flower" long ago). In truth, she just hasn't found anyone worth her time or effort. Since her mother ran out on the family when she was young, she took over as the mother figure to her younger sister, Gracie, with whom she has always been ultra-protective. When their father passed away a couple of years ago, Joey tightened the leash even more on her sister to try to keep her safe in the bubble that is Goat's Tit, Alabama (yep - their town is named for the nipples of a barnyard animal). But when Joey's business partner bails on this charity thing and volunteers Gracie to go with Joey, she reluctantly goes along with it. The point of attending this soiree is to get investors to grow the company they founded: Weightless. Joey pilots a specially designed plane to allow people to experience anti-gravity, but what she really wants is to go to the moon herself one day, and to do that, they need more capital. Thus, she has to not only attend the events, but play nice as well. But when the ginormous man in a hideous dress shakes his coconuts at her, she has to admit that she's intrigued. Zeus's confidence is very attractive to someone who doesn't have very much, and Joey finds herself drawn to him despite herself.
Zeus is going to win this bet and take double or nothing from His Royal Asshatness by taking the girl Manning selected for a spin... except he actually finds that he likes Joey more than he thought he would, though she is not his usual type. He likes her so much that he, well, gets overexcited when he finally gets a chance to show him the coconuts under his skirt. So Joey chalks him up as just another man looking out for his own pleasure to bother with seeing to hers. But Zeus has never had this happen before, and he is not about to let "the incident" be the last impression Joey has of him, so he doggedly pursues her. Will Joey give him another chance? And what the f is up with spiders?? They spin ass-yarn and suck on their victim's blood - it's totally normal to freak out, dump the golf cart you're driving, and dive directly into the water hazard to be sure it's not on you.... right?
What I liked:
--- The humor was pretty much nonstop in this one! Very fun!
--- Zeus is an alphamale with a beta H heart... what's not to like (oh, also he apparently has a gigantic dick, so there's that too)
--- We were able to get to know Manning a little better (he is the H in the next book), Gracie (the h in the next book), Ares (if you CAN get to know Ares), and caught up with Ambrosia and Chase (I love the nonstop sh!t that the twins and Chase give each other)
What I didn't like as much:
--- I didn't connect as much with Joey - maybe it's because she was too overprotective of her sister; maybe it was the obsession with wanting to be an odd duck (kind of like the hipster philosophy of trying too hard not to be normal?); she did grow on me more as the story went on, but I didn't relate to her as much
--- There were some aspects that were unrealistic
Overall, I really enjoyed Zeus's story, and while Joey wasn't my favorite h, she grew on me a little as the book unfolded. I am really looking forward to Ares's story, but I am also looking forward to learning about the prince in this next installment of the series.
Plot --- 4/5
Main Characters --- 4/5 (Zeus = 5; Joey Fireball = 3)
Supporting Cast --- 4.5/5 (I love Ares - can't wait for his book, and Chase & Ambrosia from McHottie were fun to have in this story)
Steam Level* --- 3.5/5
Violence --- none I can recall
Language --- yes
POV --- Dual
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild (nothing descriptive); 2/5 - 3rd base action/1 home run; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere (a couple of full-on steamy scenes); 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
I love Pippa Grant's writing style - her books always have a great sense of humor, and this was no exception. My only issue with this one was that I really didn't feel like I connected much with the h (Joey "Fireball"), but I LOVED the H (Zeus Berger). Maybe because we have met Zeus in previous books?
I would HIGHLY recommend reading Mister McHottie
before this book bc the h in that story is Zeus's sister, and the H is his best friend from childhood, so he is in their book, and they are in this one quite a bit.Zeus Berger is one of the giant set of twins that have been dominant in the NHL since they hit the ice, and his nickname is "The Brute." He is an enforcer, meaning he is best at defense, but he still gets plenty of puck into the goal... on and off the rink. But when he is dared by his royal teammate (Manning Frey, who really is a prince, but, as he puts it, the expendable kind bc he is pretty far down the inheritance rung) to show up to a charity event in full drag and get a woman to hook up with him, he is 100% committed to making that happen. When you're named after the king of the gods, you have to wear confidence like a second skin.
Joey (call sign "Fireball" bc she's a badass pilot) Diamonte is not a virgin.... Well, technically, she is in the sense of never having sex with a man (though one of her favorite toys took care of her "flower" long ago). In truth, she just hasn't found anyone worth her time or effort. Since her mother ran out on the family when she was young, she took over as the mother figure to her younger sister, Gracie, with whom she has always been ultra-protective. When their father passed away a couple of years ago, Joey tightened the leash even more on her sister to try to keep her safe in the bubble that is Goat's Tit, Alabama (yep - their town is named for the nipples of a barnyard animal). But when Joey's business partner bails on this charity thing and volunteers Gracie to go with Joey, she reluctantly goes along with it. The point of attending this soiree is to get investors to grow the company they founded: Weightless. Joey pilots a specially designed plane to allow people to experience anti-gravity, but what she really wants is to go to the moon herself one day, and to do that, they need more capital. Thus, she has to not only attend the events, but play nice as well. But when the ginormous man in a hideous dress shakes his coconuts at her, she has to admit that she's intrigued. Zeus's confidence is very attractive to someone who doesn't have very much, and Joey finds herself drawn to him despite herself.
Zeus is going to win this bet and take double or nothing from His Royal Asshatness by taking the girl Manning selected for a spin... except he actually finds that he likes Joey more than he thought he would, though she is not his usual type. He likes her so much that he, well, gets overexcited when he finally gets a chance to show him the coconuts under his skirt. So Joey chalks him up as just another man looking out for his own pleasure to bother with seeing to hers. But Zeus has never had this happen before, and he is not about to let "the incident" be the last impression Joey has of him, so he doggedly pursues her. Will Joey give him another chance? And what the f is up with spiders?? They spin ass-yarn and suck on their victim's blood - it's totally normal to freak out, dump the golf cart you're driving, and dive directly into the water hazard to be sure it's not on you.... right?
What I liked:
--- The humor was pretty much nonstop in this one! Very fun!
--- Zeus is an alphamale with a beta H heart... what's not to like (oh, also he apparently has a gigantic dick, so there's that too)
--- We were able to get to know Manning a little better (he is the H in the next book), Gracie (the h in the next book), Ares (if you CAN get to know Ares), and caught up with Ambrosia and Chase (I love the nonstop sh!t that the twins and Chase give each other)
What I didn't like as much:
--- I didn't connect as much with Joey - maybe it's because she was too overprotective of her sister; maybe it was the obsession with wanting to be an odd duck (kind of like the hipster philosophy of trying too hard not to be normal?); she did grow on me more as the story went on, but I didn't relate to her as much
--- There were some aspects that were unrealistic
Overall, I really enjoyed Zeus's story, and while Joey wasn't my favorite h, she grew on me a little as the book unfolded. I am really looking forward to Ares's story, but I am also looking forward to learning about the prince in this next installment of the series.
Plot --- 4/5
Main Characters --- 4/5 (Zeus = 5; Joey Fireball = 3)
Supporting Cast --- 4.5/5 (I love Ares - can't wait for his book, and Chase & Ambrosia from McHottie were fun to have in this story)
Steam Level* --- 3.5/5
Violence --- none I can recall
Language --- yes
POV --- Dual
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild (nothing descriptive); 2/5 - 3rd base action/1 home run; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere (a couple of full-on steamy scenes); 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
February 19, 2018
Doubled up on funny without losing any heart
I think that Pippa Grant is trying to make me look like a liar. I keep stating how much I don't really enjoy romantic comedies but each time I read one of hers I have to make an exception, and each time the books get better and better. I really thought that nothing could top my love for Knox Moretti, I mean he's a sexy romance blogger, what can be better than that?
Zeus Berger. That's what.
It's ironic that my initial reaction to him in the other books and upon finding out that he would get his own story was, "How could Pippa Grant possibly make me fall in love with this larger-than-life oaf who has an ego to match and probably half the IQ?" because this is exactly the reaction that Zeus is used to getting and the one thing he longs for someone to look beyond. I never expected discover the softer, smarter side of him and I definitely didn't expect to be swooning so hard over him. Of course, what could bring out the softer side of a big old brute like him better than a tough-as-nails, take no bs, successful woman?
Enter Joey "Fireball" Diamonte.
I don't think I've ever met such a ballsy, badass heroine as Joey. Sure, she comes across as cold and stubborn and extremely stand-offish but this is precisely why her and Zeus are perfect for each other. They are the only two strong-willed, confident (some might say cocky) people who could possibly have the patience and will to push past each other's barriers. And boy did they make it an interesting journey!!
There are a lot of books that make me smile, and even make me giggle but this one made me literally laugh out loud. #gleek #spiders I don't love romcoms that are overtly raunchy or crass simply for the sake of trying to be funny but when those things are true to who a character is and that character is well-developed beyond those characteristics, it makes all the difference. That kind of thing gets old really quick when it seems to be the only dimension to a character and their story. This is not the case with Pippa Grant's books. If you feel overwhelmed or annoyed by some of the behaviors of her characters in the beginning of the story, stick it out, I swear you won't be disappointed. Outside of all the laughs this books provides, you'll also feel. This story has heart and it's kind of embedded itself in mine.
I think that Pippa Grant is trying to make me look like a liar. I keep stating how much I don't really enjoy romantic comedies but each time I read one of hers I have to make an exception, and each time the books get better and better. I really thought that nothing could top my love for Knox Moretti, I mean he's a sexy romance blogger, what can be better than that?
Zeus Berger. That's what.
It's ironic that my initial reaction to him in the other books and upon finding out that he would get his own story was, "How could Pippa Grant possibly make me fall in love with this larger-than-life oaf who has an ego to match and probably half the IQ?" because this is exactly the reaction that Zeus is used to getting and the one thing he longs for someone to look beyond. I never expected discover the softer, smarter side of him and I definitely didn't expect to be swooning so hard over him. Of course, what could bring out the softer side of a big old brute like him better than a tough-as-nails, take no bs, successful woman?
Enter Joey "Fireball" Diamonte.
I don't think I've ever met such a ballsy, badass heroine as Joey. Sure, she comes across as cold and stubborn and extremely stand-offish but this is precisely why her and Zeus are perfect for each other. They are the only two strong-willed, confident (some might say cocky) people who could possibly have the patience and will to push past each other's barriers. And boy did they make it an interesting journey!!
There are a lot of books that make me smile, and even make me giggle but this one made me literally laugh out loud. #gleek #spiders I don't love romcoms that are overtly raunchy or crass simply for the sake of trying to be funny but when those things are true to who a character is and that character is well-developed beyond those characteristics, it makes all the difference. That kind of thing gets old really quick when it seems to be the only dimension to a character and their story. This is not the case with Pippa Grant's books. If you feel overwhelmed or annoyed by some of the behaviors of her characters in the beginning of the story, stick it out, I swear you won't be disappointed. Outside of all the laughs this books provides, you'll also feel. This story has heart and it's kind of embedded itself in mine.
February 25, 2019
Overview:
Zeus & Joey. Told from dual POV. Pretty much instant love as they were saying the ILY’s within a short time of meeting. I suppose this could be considered a standalone, but it has recurring characters from previous books that play a big role in this story. It has a HEA and an epilogue.
The Characters:
Zeus is a professional hockey player and Joey (aka Fireball) is a pilot that runs a flight adventure company that specializes in providing zero-gravity experiences to the general public. Zeus was a lovable character (big strong guy with a massive fear of spiders was too cute 😊) but I struggled a bit with Joey as she came off as a bit of an alpha male and that’s not the role I like my heroine to have. She is a 30 year old virgin (really?? 🙄) who sometimes borders on creepy the way she tries to protect the virtue of her 26 year old sister.
This book has quite a few secondary characters that have significant roles in this book. I will say that I was a bit lost in the first portion of this book trying to figure out the various characters and how all their personalities meshed together. If you are interested in this book, I would suggest reading “Mister, McHottie” first so that you have some background. Because this was the first book I read, I think there were some inside jokes that I didn’t get because I didn’t have the backstory that was established in the previous book.
Overall
As mentioned above, I was somewhat lost in the first portion of this book and I almost didn’t finish. There wasn’t a lot that kept the story interesting and if you are looking for some great hockey moments, this story won’t fulfill that need. There were times when the humor felt forced, but other times the humor fit the situation perfectly. So the comedic side was a bit hit & miss for me. They had some steamy bedroom scenes, but because I wasn’t a big fan of Joey, I think the sexy scenes fell a little flat for me.
Overall, there were some funny moments, I liked that the female character had a unique career and Zeus was sexy. On the flip side, I felt a bit lost, the story itself was not that exciting, some funny parts felt too forced and Joey was a little too alpha for me. It was just ok.
I’m not sure if I will read Gracie’s story next (Joey's sister), but I would like to read Ares story (Zeus’ twin, also a professional hockey player) if other reviews are good. Ares was intriguing in this book and I would like to see him get his HEA. UPDATE: Reviews not good. Apparently Ares grunts the whole time and female lead is a puck bunny ventriloquist who likes to talk in her ventriloquist voices all the time. Nope. Not my cup of tea. Moving on from this series.
Quotes
“I know exactly who these two are, and they’d better not be planning on trying anything with my sister, or I will end their hockey careers faster than a comet ended the dinosaurs, except with way more pain.”
“There’s so much testosterone radiating through the air we’re all about to keel over from penis poisoning.”
“If men are pigs, his body is the bacon, and god help me, I love a good piece of bacon.”
“That’s it. I’m done for. I’m gonna fucking die of archo—araka—arachnafuckingscaryspiderfear.”
Zeus & Joey. Told from dual POV. Pretty much instant love as they were saying the ILY’s within a short time of meeting. I suppose this could be considered a standalone, but it has recurring characters from previous books that play a big role in this story. It has a HEA and an epilogue.
The Characters:
Zeus is a professional hockey player and Joey (aka Fireball) is a pilot that runs a flight adventure company that specializes in providing zero-gravity experiences to the general public. Zeus was a lovable character (big strong guy with a massive fear of spiders was too cute 😊) but I struggled a bit with Joey as she came off as a bit of an alpha male and that’s not the role I like my heroine to have. She is a 30 year old virgin (really?? 🙄) who sometimes borders on creepy the way she tries to protect the virtue of her 26 year old sister.
This book has quite a few secondary characters that have significant roles in this book. I will say that I was a bit lost in the first portion of this book trying to figure out the various characters and how all their personalities meshed together. If you are interested in this book, I would suggest reading “Mister, McHottie” first so that you have some background. Because this was the first book I read, I think there were some inside jokes that I didn’t get because I didn’t have the backstory that was established in the previous book.
Overall
As mentioned above, I was somewhat lost in the first portion of this book and I almost didn’t finish. There wasn’t a lot that kept the story interesting and if you are looking for some great hockey moments, this story won’t fulfill that need. There were times when the humor felt forced, but other times the humor fit the situation perfectly. So the comedic side was a bit hit & miss for me. They had some steamy bedroom scenes, but because I wasn’t a big fan of Joey, I think the sexy scenes fell a little flat for me.
Overall, there were some funny moments, I liked that the female character had a unique career and Zeus was sexy. On the flip side, I felt a bit lost, the story itself was not that exciting, some funny parts felt too forced and Joey was a little too alpha for me. It was just ok.
I’m not sure if I will read Gracie’s story next (Joey's sister), but I would like to read Ares story (Zeus’ twin, also a professional hockey player) if other reviews are good. Ares was intriguing in this book and I would like to see him get his HEA. UPDATE: Reviews not good. Apparently Ares grunts the whole time and female lead is a puck bunny ventriloquist who likes to talk in her ventriloquist voices all the time. Nope. Not my cup of tea. Moving on from this series.
Quotes
“I know exactly who these two are, and they’d better not be planning on trying anything with my sister, or I will end their hockey careers faster than a comet ended the dinosaurs, except with way more pain.”
“There’s so much testosterone radiating through the air we’re all about to keel over from penis poisoning.”
“If men are pigs, his body is the bacon, and god help me, I love a good piece of bacon.”
“That’s it. I’m done for. I’m gonna fucking die of archo—araka—arachnafuckingscaryspiderfear.”
July 22, 2021
This is first in the Copper Valley Thrusters series, but the couple from Mister McHottie feature prominently as Ambrosia is Zeus's sister and her husband is a good friend and is a business target for Joey. I felt like I missed a lot of unimportant detail not having read that one.
This book relies on its tone/voice to carry the reader. For me, that worked out great. It's irreverent and boisterous and larger than life. Which fit these protagonists perfectly. This is such an important aspect of the story, and likely the sole determinant of whether or not you'll enjoy it, that I'm pretty much going to stop there.
Read the sample if you're interested. It gets better (and funnier) later on, so if you like it even a little it's a good bet you'll like this book.
And a reassurance that it isn't all about the schtick. The characters have soft cores under their bravado, and some key insecurities. Seeing them let down the barriers to each other, and develop trust and true intimacy, was outstanding. There's a heart under the surface of this story because there's heart under our main characters. And seeing that come together was very engaging.
So I'm going to go with four stars rather than five, despite how much I laughed. Most of that is because as funny as they are, both characters also have a hefty dose of crude, even in their internal musings. And while my tolerance is high, this came close to overcoming it. Also, there's no way the world works the way this plot follows along and that niggled at me sometimes, too. It's a solid four stars because I laughed so hard I cried (and one of those highlights still makes me chuckle every time I see someone else like it).
A note about crude: The crude is strong in this one. It's not derogatory or demeaning, but it is rather constant.
A note about Steamy: There are five or six explicit sex scenes, though they tend to be brief, putting this in the high side of my steam tolerance but not even close to slipping out. And if you saw any double entendre in that sentence, you've already read this book, haven't you?
This book relies on its tone/voice to carry the reader. For me, that worked out great. It's irreverent and boisterous and larger than life. Which fit these protagonists perfectly. This is such an important aspect of the story, and likely the sole determinant of whether or not you'll enjoy it, that I'm pretty much going to stop there.
Read the sample if you're interested. It gets better (and funnier) later on, so if you like it even a little it's a good bet you'll like this book.
And a reassurance that it isn't all about the schtick. The characters have soft cores under their bravado, and some key insecurities. Seeing them let down the barriers to each other, and develop trust and true intimacy, was outstanding. There's a heart under the surface of this story because there's heart under our main characters. And seeing that come together was very engaging.
So I'm going to go with four stars rather than five, despite how much I laughed. Most of that is because as funny as they are, both characters also have a hefty dose of crude, even in their internal musings. And while my tolerance is high, this came close to overcoming it. Also, there's no way the world works the way this plot follows along and that niggled at me sometimes, too. It's a solid four stars because I laughed so hard I cried (and one of those highlights still makes me chuckle every time I see someone else like it).
A note about crude: The crude is strong in this one. It's not derogatory or demeaning, but it is rather constant.
A note about Steamy: There are five or six explicit sex scenes, though they tend to be brief, putting this in the high side of my steam tolerance but not even close to slipping out. And if you saw any double entendre in that sentence, you've already read this book, haven't you?
February 16, 2018
Pippa Grant is becoming one of my favorite authors, and with The Pilot & the Puck-Up it's easy to see why. Joey and Zeus are the kind of characters I want to read about. I want to take them home and put them in a glass case, so I can see them every time I sit in the living room. They're just that adorable.
Joey "Fireball" Diamonte is a woman who's used to playing in a man's world. It means she's learned how to duck, parry, and weave - yet still get her job done. Right now, her job is getting a bunch of rich dudes interested in her business. There's no place anywhere for a hulking beast of a man who sometimes has questionable taste in clothes and/or friends. Tell her body that though, and you'll get a different answer.
She’s leaping at me. I catch her, her legs go around my middle, she attacks my lips with her mouth, and fuck, she’s so strong and determined and delicious and I will fucking love this woman until the day the universe no longer exists.
Zeus Berger zeroed in on this chick's vibe the moment he saw her, and he is NOT backing down. She refuses to give him her name, just "Fireball" - and while she's plenty willing the first time around, his moon isn't in Jupiter... if you know what I mean. You will, I promise.
Nobody thinks Zeus can handle her, especially Joey. Although deep down, Joey's got her own issues. She definitely has a hard candy shell that has a few cracks - which Zeus is more than willing to break through... if you know what I mean. You will, I promise.
These two are perfect for each other, and that means the story is exquisitely written - characters fully developed, arcs well-defined from beginning to end, side characters fitting in and able to branch off seamlessly, just everything about this book is amazing.
I'm giving The Pilot & the Puck-Up 4.5/5 rubber chicken stars.
June 25, 2021
This was almost a dnf for me. Not because it made me angry or anything it was just so meh.
I've tried three of Pippa's books and I can safely say I just don't enjoy her version of humor. Its not the fun kind of awkward, you know?
Ares (side character) has been my favorite since book 1 so if she does ever write a book about him I'll read that... maybe.
This heroine was just weird. 30 year old virgin that guarded her 26 year old sister's non existent "virtue" to the point of being creepy. The sister will be Pippa's next heroine: Hard pass.
The only thing that kept me going was Zeus, he was pretty cute (as we all knew he would be) but it wasn't enough to save the book.
I felt like the first 2/3 just drug on and on and the heroine was just asking to be throat punched herself and then the last but ALL the things happened but then, just like the previous two books it just sort of drops off with an unsatisfying hfn. Groan.
Anyway, someone poke me if Pippa writes Ares a book, until then, I'm out.
I've tried three of Pippa's books and I can safely say I just don't enjoy her version of humor. Its not the fun kind of awkward, you know?
Ares (side character) has been my favorite since book 1 so if she does ever write a book about him I'll read that... maybe.
This heroine was just weird. 30 year old virgin that guarded her 26 year old sister's non existent "virtue" to the point of being creepy. The sister will be Pippa's next heroine: Hard pass.
The only thing that kept me going was Zeus, he was pretty cute (as we all knew he would be) but it wasn't enough to save the book.
I felt like the first 2/3 just drug on and on and the heroine was just asking to be throat punched herself and then the last but ALL the things happened but then, just like the previous two books it just sort of drops off with an unsatisfying hfn. Groan.
Anyway, someone poke me if Pippa writes Ares a book, until then, I'm out.
March 9, 2023
2⭐️
Mannnnn I guess I’m the odd one out.
I really disliked this lol… like a lot.
I hated all the characters and their extreme personalities.
It was like the author tried so hard to give them the most obnoxious personalities ever and then the book ends and there’s a picture of the author dressed like a unicorn and I’m like “ok makes sense”
Just not my jam.
The man spend paragraphs describing himself. Like admiring himself, talking about how great his muscles and thighs were. Like no.
And the female mc ughhh she tried so hard to be so macho and had to be better than all the men. Gave off “girl who thinks she’s one of the guys” vibes and idk I didn’t like it.
Mannnnn I guess I’m the odd one out.
I really disliked this lol… like a lot.
I hated all the characters and their extreme personalities.
It was like the author tried so hard to give them the most obnoxious personalities ever and then the book ends and there’s a picture of the author dressed like a unicorn and I’m like “ok makes sense”
Just not my jam.
The man spend paragraphs describing himself. Like admiring himself, talking about how great his muscles and thighs were. Like no.
And the female mc ughhh she tried so hard to be so macho and had to be better than all the men. Gave off “girl who thinks she’s one of the guys” vibes and idk I didn’t like it.
February 12, 2018
Oh lord this book and these Berger twins were hilarious!! I’m really enjoying these Pippa Grant books. One of my favorite genres is romcoms and she’s got those going on! Although I did miss one book before this one I didn’t feel like I missed anything much. So these are stand alones but I do want to read it. Now back to Zeus and Joey. Zeus is one of the Berger twins, built like a small building and plays hockey. And the crack up and kicker of the twins. Joey aka Fireball is a pilot. And a no nonsense woman who doesn’t take shit from anyone and has bigger balls than most men. No one has ever put Zeus in his place besides his family. But fireball sure does and he can’t get her out of his head. And Joey gives in to Zeus and that’s never happened before. Men has never knocked her off her game. And out of her head space when she’s supposed to be working. But neither one of them want relationships. But can’t stay away from each other either and the antics they get up to along the way is so funny. I loved seeing how this all played out. Now I really want Ares to have a book!!! I recommend this book!!!
July 19, 2022
There definitely was some funny moments but I just didn't feel the chemistry between the two mc's. I think I'm in a rut and not sure what I want to read so this may be more me than the book 🤔
February 4, 2019
"I missed you," she whispers in a small voice.
Not my cock swelling now.
No, that's all my heart. Puffing up and sauntering and shaking it's dick at my dick, yelling Suck this, she likes me too.
Yeah, my heart's such a guy. You got a problem with that?
I know Joey.
And I know those three words cost her more than she'll ever admit.
This book was exactly what I was in the mood for, fun, fluffy romance with a funny, takes-no-shit gal and a funny, smarter-than-he-lets-on guy, topped with hilarious inner dialogue and conversation.
"Lame," she says. "Attila the Tongue would've been more intriguing."
There are exactly two women in my life who ever put me in my place. My mom and my sister. It's surprising how much I'm enjoying this battle of wits.
I give her the bedroom eyes. "Didn't think you'd get it if I said he's really Olickseus."
That's right. I know all about Odysseus and more fucking Greek history than any big motherfucker like me should. Thanks, Mom.
"Odickseus, I might've gotten," she says dryly.
I grin, because damn. She nailed it. I like her.
Joey has an awesome job, the whole Weightless thing was super interesting and different. Seriously a nice change of pace, it really made the story that much better. She was a hard-ass, but totally committed to those she loved.
Because that low pull in my belly isn't hunger, it's not indigestion, and it's not excitement over a round of charity golf with billionaires, athletes, rock stars, and actors.
It's interest.
I shake my head.
Zeus Berger is an arrogant hockey player who's been trained in all the right things to say to compensate for his bone-headed ability to make the news for doing stupid shit like talking his teammates into doing a mooning flash-mob to the tune of "Jingle Bells" at the Mall of America.
Zeus was funnier and a lot more well rounded than I had expected from his appearances in previous books. He's made his reputation of a cocky, hulking brute while on the ice and a cocky dumbass prankster off the ice. Joey is the only one who sees past the act.
I treat her to the infamous Zeus Berger I'm going to fucking eat your face glower.
She smiles.
A sparkly-eyed, cheek-to-cheek, ear-wiggling smile.
My dick threatens to split my zipper, my brain goes tongue-tied, and there's that squeezing in my chest again, like someone's trying to rub one out of my lungs.
I point to the pile of pucks. "Go on. Do it again."
She presses those rosy lips together, but she's still smiling as she bends her head to take an order for once.
And she scores another fucking goal.
I yank the other stick out of my pants and toss it in the air behind us. "Who the fuck are you? Are you sharking me?" I poke her in the arm to make sure she's real and not a hologram.
Yeah, yeah fine. And because I want to touch her.
They really are perfect for each other. And they give great banter. Also some of the phrases, genital nicknames, and the back-and-forths between these two had me laughing so fucking hard.
Little gems such as these:
My dick caught pre-jaculitis. Needs some pampering. Or a good beating.
After it's out of penalty box.
~
Now I'm getting all hot and bothered and popping a lady boner in my clit over the idea of a dickhorn.
~
I'm spun up so fast my ovaries might've just bruised my pelvis.
~
My pussy gasps, bitch-slaps the three brain cells that led to that thought, and pulls a Carol Kane in The Princess Bride: Liar! LIAARRRR!!
~
"We should get you out of this T-shirt."
Jupiter lifts an interested eye.
"Penalty box," I growl.
All he hears is box, and he thinks I mean Joey's.
~
My nuts are about to burst and my cock's so fucking hard and thick and long it's gonna bust a vein and die of a dick aneurysm.
Oh, and Bailey was a great addition. That little shit cracked me up. Seriously funny, I'm loving this non-series and everyone in it. Pippa Grant is quickly becoming a favorite.
"Joey…"
"Shut the fudge up, Berger." Bailey says. "Your stick work stinks this season, and you've got weak ankles. If you hurt Joey, I'll rack you in the pucks."
"Scary short one," Ares says.
"You surround yourself with the best women," Ambrosia says while Chase snickers. "Seriously, Zeus. They keep getting better."
And every time Joey said vomit comet, I immediately thought of this:
Not my cock swelling now.
No, that's all my heart. Puffing up and sauntering and shaking it's dick at my dick, yelling Suck this, she likes me too.
Yeah, my heart's such a guy. You got a problem with that?
I know Joey.
And I know those three words cost her more than she'll ever admit.
This book was exactly what I was in the mood for, fun, fluffy romance with a funny, takes-no-shit gal and a funny, smarter-than-he-lets-on guy, topped with hilarious inner dialogue and conversation.
"Lame," she says. "Attila the Tongue would've been more intriguing."
There are exactly two women in my life who ever put me in my place. My mom and my sister. It's surprising how much I'm enjoying this battle of wits.
I give her the bedroom eyes. "Didn't think you'd get it if I said he's really Olickseus."
That's right. I know all about Odysseus and more fucking Greek history than any big motherfucker like me should. Thanks, Mom.
"Odickseus, I might've gotten," she says dryly.
I grin, because damn. She nailed it. I like her.
Joey has an awesome job, the whole Weightless thing was super interesting and different. Seriously a nice change of pace, it really made the story that much better. She was a hard-ass, but totally committed to those she loved.
Because that low pull in my belly isn't hunger, it's not indigestion, and it's not excitement over a round of charity golf with billionaires, athletes, rock stars, and actors.
It's interest.
I shake my head.
Zeus Berger is an arrogant hockey player who's been trained in all the right things to say to compensate for his bone-headed ability to make the news for doing stupid shit like talking his teammates into doing a mooning flash-mob to the tune of "Jingle Bells" at the Mall of America.
Zeus was funnier and a lot more well rounded than I had expected from his appearances in previous books. He's made his reputation of a cocky, hulking brute while on the ice and a cocky dumbass prankster off the ice. Joey is the only one who sees past the act.
I treat her to the infamous Zeus Berger I'm going to fucking eat your face glower.
She smiles.
A sparkly-eyed, cheek-to-cheek, ear-wiggling smile.
My dick threatens to split my zipper, my brain goes tongue-tied, and there's that squeezing in my chest again, like someone's trying to rub one out of my lungs.
I point to the pile of pucks. "Go on. Do it again."
She presses those rosy lips together, but she's still smiling as she bends her head to take an order for once.
And she scores another fucking goal.
I yank the other stick out of my pants and toss it in the air behind us. "Who the fuck are you? Are you sharking me?" I poke her in the arm to make sure she's real and not a hologram.
Yeah, yeah fine. And because I want to touch her.
They really are perfect for each other. And they give great banter. Also some of the phrases, genital nicknames, and the back-and-forths between these two had me laughing so fucking hard.
Little gems such as these:
My dick caught pre-jaculitis. Needs some pampering. Or a good beating.
After it's out of penalty box.
~
Now I'm getting all hot and bothered and popping a lady boner in my clit over the idea of a dickhorn.
~
I'm spun up so fast my ovaries might've just bruised my pelvis.
~
My pussy gasps, bitch-slaps the three brain cells that led to that thought, and pulls a Carol Kane in The Princess Bride: Liar! LIAARRRR!!
~
"We should get you out of this T-shirt."
Jupiter lifts an interested eye.
"Penalty box," I growl.
All he hears is box, and he thinks I mean Joey's.
~
My nuts are about to burst and my cock's so fucking hard and thick and long it's gonna bust a vein and die of a dick aneurysm.
Oh, and Bailey was a great addition. That little shit cracked me up. Seriously funny, I'm loving this non-series and everyone in it. Pippa Grant is quickly becoming a favorite.
"Joey…"
"Shut the fudge up, Berger." Bailey says. "Your stick work stinks this season, and you've got weak ankles. If you hurt Joey, I'll rack you in the pucks."
"Scary short one," Ares says.
"You surround yourself with the best women," Ambrosia says while Chase snickers. "Seriously, Zeus. They keep getting better."
And every time Joey said vomit comet, I immediately thought of this:
December 1, 2021
A ONS gone VERY wrong, a HUGE swoony H and a feisty h- I’m sold
*Sigh* oh Zeus. I fell in love you when I read you in your sister’s book (Mister McHottie). But after this book, I love you even more- you are everything women need in their men ��EXCEPT if a spider shows up… women are ON THEIR OWN for that one 😂😂😂😂.
*side note* the AUDIOBOOK is DUET NARRATION… so good!🥰
Zeus is 30, a hockey player, and is dressed up as a woman at an event. The opening scene of the book is hilarious, since he’s wearing coconuts as a bra and heels that would make any woman jealous. He’s hanging out with other players and they dare him to proposition a random woman, and they happen to pick Joey, aka Fireball. Joey’s there with her younger sister, who she’s very overprotective over, and Zeus approaches her. She doesn’t make it easy on him, lol, which I appreciated- this all means that Zeus has his work cut out for him.
Joey’s a pilot; more specifically, she flies a zero-gravity plane that helps train people to go into outer space. She’s unimpressed by men in general, and is still a V, but she’s well acquainted with toys. She decides that she wants to lose her V to Zeus, and they go to his hotel room...
Things get hot and heavy quickly… TOO quickly for Zeus😅… and it all ends… um… surprisingly QUICK for Zeus… before they do anything😬… and that’s why Joey leaves 🙈… STRIKE 1 (or should I say foul 1 since he’s a hockey player?). Zeus feels the need to redeem himself, and he tries, but things happen... STRIKE 2. I was laughing so much during these parts lol.
Although it’s more of a slow burn (70% for the home run/goal?), I didn’t feel it 😅. All the shenanigans and side character stuff made me giggle and entertained me page by page. Not only that, but Zeus is so swoony and had me cackling and doing this 🙈a lot. Poor guy. All he wants to do is redeem himself 😬lol and boy- does he ever 🥵🔥💦😅. He’s ALL about pleasing Joey🔥🥵😉- because she’s THAT important to him🥰. Yes, he’s been with many women before, but as soon as he saw Joey, he knew she was different and she was IT for him 🥰. But here’s the thing- Joey’s the one hesitating. She’s the one that doesn’t want to be serious with anyone because she’s afraid of them walking away, just like her mother did, and Zeus knows this, which is why he keeps proving her wrong. Gahhhh SWOOOOON! 🥰🥺❤️.
The banter was AH-MAZE-ING! The fact that Joey beats Zeus left and right at everything had me smiling and giggling lol. She epitomizes female strength- women don’t NEED men, but it’s sure nice to have them as support. And that’s what happens here; Zeus supports her🥺. Gahhh. I love these two (Zeus- just… ugh… I love you🥰❤️!!!). The golf cart scene… the spider scene… oh DOG! Hahaha! I am DYING all over again!
Although Zeus and Joey are hilarious and amazing characters, the secondary characters are just as great- which sets up the rest of the series. Plus, I loved seeing Ambrosia/Bro and Chase here too.
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no cheating/sharing/owd/omd
-the h’s dad’s death is recounted (not in too much detail though) and the h has abandonment issues cause of her mom
-no real triggers, unless you count a man finishing early as one 😂😅😬
*Sigh* oh Zeus. I fell in love you when I read you in your sister’s book (Mister McHottie). But after this book, I love you even more- you are everything women need in their men ��EXCEPT if a spider shows up… women are ON THEIR OWN for that one 😂😂😂😂.
*side note* the AUDIOBOOK is DUET NARRATION… so good!🥰
Zeus is 30, a hockey player, and is dressed up as a woman at an event. The opening scene of the book is hilarious, since he’s wearing coconuts as a bra and heels that would make any woman jealous. He’s hanging out with other players and they dare him to proposition a random woman, and they happen to pick Joey, aka Fireball. Joey’s there with her younger sister, who she’s very overprotective over, and Zeus approaches her. She doesn’t make it easy on him, lol, which I appreciated- this all means that Zeus has his work cut out for him.
Joey’s a pilot; more specifically, she flies a zero-gravity plane that helps train people to go into outer space. She’s unimpressed by men in general, and is still a V, but she’s well acquainted with toys. She decides that she wants to lose her V to Zeus, and they go to his hotel room...
Things get hot and heavy quickly… TOO quickly for Zeus😅… and it all ends… um… surprisingly QUICK for Zeus… before they do anything😬… and that’s why Joey leaves 🙈… STRIKE 1 (or should I say foul 1 since he’s a hockey player?). Zeus feels the need to redeem himself, and he tries, but things happen... STRIKE 2. I was laughing so much during these parts lol.
Although it’s more of a slow burn (70% for the home run/goal?), I didn’t feel it 😅. All the shenanigans and side character stuff made me giggle and entertained me page by page. Not only that, but Zeus is so swoony and had me cackling and doing this 🙈a lot. Poor guy. All he wants to do is redeem himself 😬lol and boy- does he ever 🥵🔥💦😅. He’s ALL about pleasing Joey🔥🥵😉- because she’s THAT important to him🥰. Yes, he’s been with many women before, but as soon as he saw Joey, he knew she was different and she was IT for him 🥰. But here’s the thing- Joey’s the one hesitating. She’s the one that doesn’t want to be serious with anyone because she’s afraid of them walking away, just like her mother did, and Zeus knows this, which is why he keeps proving her wrong. Gahhhh SWOOOOON! 🥰🥺❤️.
The banter was AH-MAZE-ING! The fact that Joey beats Zeus left and right at everything had me smiling and giggling lol. She epitomizes female strength- women don’t NEED men, but it’s sure nice to have them as support. And that’s what happens here; Zeus supports her🥺. Gahhh. I love these two (Zeus- just… ugh… I love you🥰❤️!!!). The golf cart scene… the spider scene… oh DOG! Hahaha! I am DYING all over again!
Although Zeus and Joey are hilarious and amazing characters, the secondary characters are just as great- which sets up the rest of the series. Plus, I loved seeing Ambrosia/Bro and Chase here too.
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no cheating/sharing/owd/omd
-the h’s dad’s death is recounted (not in too much detail though) and the h has abandonment issues cause of her mom
-no real triggers, unless you count a man finishing early as one 😂😅😬
July 1, 2019
1.5 stars.
I really did not like the heroine much in this story. She was so macho and aggressive, it was like a caricature. Not sure why a woman needs to be like a man to prove she can be successful and independent. I hate the term, but some would call this woman a ball-breaker. Nothing wrong with that as a plot device, but that ain't romance for me, because a misandrist is not the stuff of heterosexual romance. Same goes for a misanthrope. That's just a story.
As for the putative hero! We meet him at a party he has crashed, dressed as a female prostitute, where he proceeds to act like an especially immature, drunken teenager. This is a man in his 30's. A supposed sports star. So he can rock CFM heels- whatever. Can he have a mature, meaningful relationship with a woman? Not so sure. It was just painful, tbh. And his views on sex: he thought he was a sex god and liked to spread his bounty far and wide. To grateful women. After all, he was so damned huge. And skilled. Nope. It was just embarrassing.
I finished the book, so the writing must have been ok, and I do believe the hero matured in the course of the story, but it was just a bit too unrealistic. The MCs in this romance were so different in character and temperament (one of them wasn't even a grown-up) it didn't work for me at all.
I really did not like the heroine much in this story. She was so macho and aggressive, it was like a caricature. Not sure why a woman needs to be like a man to prove she can be successful and independent. I hate the term, but some would call this woman a ball-breaker. Nothing wrong with that as a plot device, but that ain't romance for me, because a misandrist is not the stuff of heterosexual romance. Same goes for a misanthrope. That's just a story.
As for the putative hero! We meet him at a party he has crashed, dressed as a female prostitute, where he proceeds to act like an especially immature, drunken teenager. This is a man in his 30's. A supposed sports star. So he can rock CFM heels- whatever. Can he have a mature, meaningful relationship with a woman? Not so sure. It was just painful, tbh. And his views on sex: he thought he was a sex god and liked to spread his bounty far and wide. To grateful women. After all, he was so damned huge. And skilled. Nope. It was just embarrassing.
I finished the book, so the writing must have been ok, and I do believe the hero matured in the course of the story, but it was just a bit too unrealistic. The MCs in this romance were so different in character and temperament (one of them wasn't even a grown-up) it didn't work for me at all.
September 18, 2020
I wish Zeus could have been done just a little better. I really wanted a story about a rough around the edges brute that meets his match, but instead he was like a 13yo overgrown goof/oaf. I did like Zeus though and look forward to Ares' book. I think the weird disconnect came from PG trying to show his softer side by making him do weird goofy or outlandish shit but it didn't come across as cute or funny it was just stupid. Also it became extremely annoying the breaking the 4th wall or talking to the reader (whatever you call it) EVERY FEW SENTENCES. Literally through the whole book, every time he thought or did something he would tell you the reader "yeah so what, I'm crazy like that" or "suck my dick if you don't like it" it became tiresome, aggravating, and detracted from the story. I hope the next one is better. This is the 3rd or 4th one of her books I've read now and it seems like I am noticing a pattern where one of the characters, if not both, have to be weird or do off the wall stuff, it becoming very gimmicky.
February 4, 2018
Joey has Lady Balls
Why am I always surprised at the emotional intensity of Pippa Grant’s writing? Why, why, why? I keep underestimating the emotional forces at work and then I’m gobsmacked by the unexpected feelings. Oh, dog, the feelings.
What kind of woman do you think it takes to bring Zeus Berger to his knees? Figuratively and literally. It sure wasn’t the kind of woman I expected him to fall for. And that is the genius of Pippa Grant. Bringing it. And bringing it hard. I’m not going to say a word about Joey “fireball” Diamonte. I’d rather just let you discover her charms on your own. But I guarantee you will love her and love this book.
Why am I always surprised at the emotional intensity of Pippa Grant’s writing? Why, why, why? I keep underestimating the emotional forces at work and then I’m gobsmacked by the unexpected feelings. Oh, dog, the feelings.
What kind of woman do you think it takes to bring Zeus Berger to his knees? Figuratively and literally. It sure wasn’t the kind of woman I expected him to fall for. And that is the genius of Pippa Grant. Bringing it. And bringing it hard. I’m not going to say a word about Joey “fireball” Diamonte. I’d rather just let you discover her charms on your own. But I guarantee you will love her and love this book.
February 16, 2018
So I really tried I did. But I could not get into this story. I made it to about 15% and had to stop. It was not something that kept me going. I signed up to read this book looking forward to reading it. I love sports/virgin and romantic comedy so there was nothing in this story that should make me walk away. But it was just a jumbled mess to me. I am hoping Pippa's next book will hit the marks for me. I voluntarily read an advance reader copy for my honest review.
did-not-finish
November 11, 2022Didn’t get far enough in this one to rate it... the humour (or lack there-of) didn’t hit with me. It felt like the author was trying way too hard and forcing humour but just ending up being way too wordy. Not for me. I’m out.
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February 21, 2018
DNF at 3 freaking %. No no no just no.
January 25, 2020
Funny but plot-less, not my favourite.
But still3Stars because male narrator's voice is a total hawt-ness.
But still3Stars because male narrator's voice is a total hawt-ness.
March 4, 2021
(audiobook) That was an eventful ride! I already loved the author’s special brand of humor, but she overdid herself this time.
The characters are unique, quirky, constantly bantering. Between the monster of a guy with a soft heart, his basically mute twin brother, the friend addicted to helium, and our main female character, also called Fireball, who can beat anyone at anything when she doesn’t pilot her plane, and who has somehow forgotten that she had functional lady bits until she met with Zeus, it’s a whole circus that you’ll meet.
And the theme of the book is that, behind those appearances–sometimes even behind the persona those characters have chosen to show the world–people don’t see who they really are, and they can sometimes forgot it too. But always trust the people who love you to see through the costume.
And the steam! Hot damn, the author brought the sexy on this time.
And the audiobook is amazing. Both narrators are regular with this author, and they have the perfect pace and energy to convey the fun and the sexy. And… it’s in duet style! The back and forths are well done. An audiobook not to miss!
Quickie
- Series: The Copper Valley thrusters #1 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #romcom #hockey romance #instalove #one night stand #virgin
- Triggers: N/A
- Main couple: Joey Diamonte & Zeus Berger
- Hotness: 5/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + very unusual characters, but described with fondness, I loved that
- – you don’t need enemies when you have that kind of friends…
The characters are unique, quirky, constantly bantering. Between the monster of a guy with a soft heart, his basically mute twin brother, the friend addicted to helium, and our main female character, also called Fireball, who can beat anyone at anything when she doesn’t pilot her plane, and who has somehow forgotten that she had functional lady bits until she met with Zeus, it’s a whole circus that you’ll meet.
And the theme of the book is that, behind those appearances–sometimes even behind the persona those characters have chosen to show the world–people don’t see who they really are, and they can sometimes forgot it too. But always trust the people who love you to see through the costume.
And the steam! Hot damn, the author brought the sexy on this time.
And the audiobook is amazing. Both narrators are regular with this author, and they have the perfect pace and energy to convey the fun and the sexy. And… it’s in duet style! The back and forths are well done. An audiobook not to miss!
Quickie
- Series: The Copper Valley thrusters #1 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #romcom #hockey romance #instalove #one night stand #virgin
- Triggers: N/A
- Main couple: Joey Diamonte & Zeus Berger
- Hotness: 5/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + very unusual characters, but described with fondness, I loved that
- – you don’t need enemies when you have that kind of friends…
April 22, 2019
Alright, we've got an arrogant hockey player, Zeus, who really thinks he is a god, and a confident pilot, Joey aka Fireball, who doesn't have the time or the patience for men. Put them together at a charity event where the side bets can get creative, add in some mutual attraction, and bam! You've got a romantic comedy.
This book was hilarious at times. The spider incident alone was the equivalent of 100 ab crunches. I thought the author was brilliant in other ways too. I especially loved the way Zeus was able to feel like he wasn't so monstrous when he took a ride in Joey's plane and experienced weightlessness for the first time. It was a little detail that really added to his character. I really enjoyed this book. Smut factor is only 2.5 out of 5. It's not about the smut.
This book was hilarious at times. The spider incident alone was the equivalent of 100 ab crunches. I thought the author was brilliant in other ways too. I especially loved the way Zeus was able to feel like he wasn't so monstrous when he took a ride in Joey's plane and experienced weightlessness for the first time. It was a little detail that really added to his character. I really enjoyed this book. Smut factor is only 2.5 out of 5. It's not about the smut.
July 15, 2024
Okay, I’m calling it. DNF at 29%.
It was torture… The style is not for me. Too many euphemisms, analogies, references that make no sense, and repetitions.
Zero chemistry between the characters, and FMC and MMC are trying too hard. And it kept dragging on and on and on… 29% of the book to talk about just 4 hours? Why?
It was torture… The style is not for me. Too many euphemisms, analogies, references that make no sense, and repetitions.
Zero chemistry between the characters, and FMC and MMC are trying too hard. And it kept dragging on and on and on… 29% of the book to talk about just 4 hours? Why?
Read
August 16, 2021Ever been to one of those Christmas wonderlands where every inch of space is sparkles, glitters, and magic busting at the seams? If that overwhelms you, this book isn’t for you. If you like the overkill bombardment of your eyes simultaneously going in 3,000 directions, then you’ll likely enjoy this book.
Fireball (FMC) has a little too much lady balls for me, and her obsession with castrating every man she sees is frightening. Scratch that… she’s just terrifying. I love a hardcore badass chick, but dayum if she doesn’t sound and act like a dude. The possessive, alpha dictatorship over her sister caused my eye to twitch in a weird way. No need to wonder why this one is a virgin. On the upside, the FMC and MMC are perfectly matched.
The MMC sounds like the alpha version of a rock… if a rock could scratch its nuts, grunt, and call someone a “twat-waffle.” Underneath it, he’s a soft’e, but both characters are just so extra tutu fruity that it’s not appealing to me in a romance-reader way.
Speaking of nuts… I’m no prude, but someone’s nuts or stick is mentioned every other sentence. Body parts in the third person. It’s a lot of… you guessed it … EXTRA.
Anyway, the Rock and Lady Balls seem to dig each other…
“So how are we going to play this? Me toss you over my shoulder and carry you out of here? Or you toss me over yours?”
More visualization….
“Fireball’s about to fuck my nuts off.”
Suddenly, it hits me. This is Animal House meets National Lampoons meets a Playboy mansion party from 1999 meets a bodice ripped book from 1976 meets Spaceballs the movie. The result is a lot of shit that a translator speaking 30 languages couldn’t even interpret. *Blinks hard*
“Butt cheeks to the glass,” I tell Ares. Lame, he telegraphs. Let’s put our Willy Winkers in the beer.
The initial scene is very long and very confusing. It’s intended to be witty, but too many people are talking for too long and in too awkward/quirky/dry way. It’s so extra that I can’t get the flavor of it… like a cookie that you throw everything in the pantry into the batter. Sometimes more is less. #overwhelmedReader
Yet, I keep reading because it’s hard to look away from a train wreck blowing fireballs into sky.
There are several parts of this book that made me laugh so fing hard. The sex scene was amusing, but when the skee ball tongue scene happens, I almost needed CPR. There’s a spider. A dick whisperer. THERE is funny in here amongst the IDKWTF these people are smoking. It kills me to give the genius of what works here a one star because of all the sucky surrounding it, which is why I’ve decided to just say f’it to the stars and let the review speak for itself.
Technicalities from a writing standpoint, the author made the voices sound too much alike. Both characters use the term “dog” instead of God in their inner thoughts, both refer to liver the same way, both tell the reader to “shut up” in the inner thoughts. In other words, the MMC AND FMC sound just alike, and that’s a huge writing error.
Ehh, recommending this book is hard because there are some truly hilarious spots and some really creative scenes. Yet, what doesn’t work here is just tragic to read.
Like the characters in the book, who were misunderstood by almost everyone outside their families, I think this book takes a certain reader to get past all the bad to see the good. I see it. I do. It’s just very difficult to enjoy a slice of cool pizza if a pile of steaming cow shit is sitting beside the plate.
Fireball (FMC) has a little too much lady balls for me, and her obsession with castrating every man she sees is frightening. Scratch that… she’s just terrifying. I love a hardcore badass chick, but dayum if she doesn’t sound and act like a dude. The possessive, alpha dictatorship over her sister caused my eye to twitch in a weird way. No need to wonder why this one is a virgin. On the upside, the FMC and MMC are perfectly matched.
The MMC sounds like the alpha version of a rock… if a rock could scratch its nuts, grunt, and call someone a “twat-waffle.” Underneath it, he’s a soft’e, but both characters are just so extra tutu fruity that it’s not appealing to me in a romance-reader way.
Speaking of nuts… I’m no prude, but someone’s nuts or stick is mentioned every other sentence. Body parts in the third person. It’s a lot of… you guessed it … EXTRA.
Anyway, the Rock and Lady Balls seem to dig each other…
“So how are we going to play this? Me toss you over my shoulder and carry you out of here? Or you toss me over yours?”
More visualization….
“Fireball’s about to fuck my nuts off.”
Suddenly, it hits me. This is Animal House meets National Lampoons meets a Playboy mansion party from 1999 meets a bodice ripped book from 1976 meets Spaceballs the movie. The result is a lot of shit that a translator speaking 30 languages couldn’t even interpret. *Blinks hard*
“Butt cheeks to the glass,” I tell Ares. Lame, he telegraphs. Let’s put our Willy Winkers in the beer.
The initial scene is very long and very confusing. It’s intended to be witty, but too many people are talking for too long and in too awkward/quirky/dry way. It’s so extra that I can’t get the flavor of it… like a cookie that you throw everything in the pantry into the batter. Sometimes more is less. #overwhelmedReader
Yet, I keep reading because it’s hard to look away from a train wreck blowing fireballs into sky.
There are several parts of this book that made me laugh so fing hard. The sex scene was amusing, but when the skee ball tongue scene happens, I almost needed CPR. There’s a spider. A dick whisperer. THERE is funny in here amongst the IDKWTF these people are smoking. It kills me to give the genius of what works here a one star because of all the sucky surrounding it, which is why I’ve decided to just say f’it to the stars and let the review speak for itself.
Technicalities from a writing standpoint, the author made the voices sound too much alike. Both characters use the term “dog” instead of God in their inner thoughts, both refer to liver the same way, both tell the reader to “shut up” in the inner thoughts. In other words, the MMC AND FMC sound just alike, and that’s a huge writing error.
Ehh, recommending this book is hard because there are some truly hilarious spots and some really creative scenes. Yet, what doesn’t work here is just tragic to read.
Like the characters in the book, who were misunderstood by almost everyone outside their families, I think this book takes a certain reader to get past all the bad to see the good. I see it. I do. It’s just very difficult to enjoy a slice of cool pizza if a pile of steaming cow shit is sitting beside the plate.
February 16, 2018
Let me be the first to say I was completely surprised by this book, and I mean that in the very best way! I was really looking forward to reading this as I really enjoyed Zeus’s crazy antics in Stud in the Stacks, but I have to admit, based on these crazy antics I was expecting this book to be completely over the top. Well, add me to the list of people who have completely misjudged Zeus Berger.
This book is a fantastic romantic comedy. It is sweet and swoony, and it made me laugh over and over again. I am a fan of Pippa’s writing, but I think this is my new favorite book by her! I completely fell for Zeus and Joey. They both had layers and layers to discover throughout this book. While they seemed so strong on the outside, they were also vulnerable and romantic and hilarious. I loved that while their story is fast (the first 70% of their book takes place over just a couple of days), their story unfolded naturally and didn’t feel rushed at all. I felt like we got to know both of them really well.
And the side characters were so important in this story. Talk about fantastic world building. Over the course of her books, Pippa has created this world nothing like my own, but I feel like I completely understand and know the people who live there. I love each and every one of these characters including the ones introduced in this book! They each have a unique personality that pulls you in and leaves you wanting more.
This book was fantastic! I was completely taken by surprise by all the feels this book brought, but I am so thankful Pippa went this route with it. Her writing is completely unique and refreshing. I definitely recommend checking this one out!
Originally written for NovelMomma.com
This book is a fantastic romantic comedy. It is sweet and swoony, and it made me laugh over and over again. I am a fan of Pippa’s writing, but I think this is my new favorite book by her! I completely fell for Zeus and Joey. They both had layers and layers to discover throughout this book. While they seemed so strong on the outside, they were also vulnerable and romantic and hilarious. I loved that while their story is fast (the first 70% of their book takes place over just a couple of days), their story unfolded naturally and didn’t feel rushed at all. I felt like we got to know both of them really well.
And the side characters were so important in this story. Talk about fantastic world building. Over the course of her books, Pippa has created this world nothing like my own, but I feel like I completely understand and know the people who live there. I love each and every one of these characters including the ones introduced in this book! They each have a unique personality that pulls you in and leaves you wanting more.
This book was fantastic! I was completely taken by surprise by all the feels this book brought, but I am so thankful Pippa went this route with it. Her writing is completely unique and refreshing. I definitely recommend checking this one out!
Originally written for NovelMomma.com
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