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Hellions Angels #2
Head Coach: Hellions Angels
Neve Angel’s life is all work and no play, but she wouldn’t have it any other way. One of Denver’s top sports reporters, she's fought hard to make it in a male-dominated world, and she won’t back down from a fight with anyone–not even the Hellions’ gruff head coach, Tor Gunnar. Her hostile relationship with the icy Scandinavian is the stuff of local legend.
Tor Gunnar hates dealing with the media; at best, they are a nuisance and at worst, a distraction. And no one distracts him more than the scrappy, sexy reporter who gets him hot under the collar. When he wins a not-so-friendly bet with Neve, he decides it’s high time they either kiss or kill each other, and invites her as a date to an out-of-town wedding.
But what happens when enemies become lovers? Will they be able to smother their sizzling attraction, or is it time to start playing for keeps?
Tor Gunnar hates dealing with the media; at best, they are a nuisance and at worst, a distraction. And no one distracts him more than the scrappy, sexy reporter who gets him hot under the collar. When he wins a not-so-friendly bet with Neve, he decides it’s high time they either kiss or kill each other, and invites her as a date to an out-of-town wedding.
But what happens when enemies become lovers? Will they be able to smother their sizzling attraction, or is it time to start playing for keeps?
Kindle Edition
First published November 21, 2017
139 people are currently reading
1607 people want to read
About the author
Lia Riley
19 books1,026 followersLia Riley is a contemporary romance author. USA Today describes her as "refreshing" and RT Book Reviews calls her books "sizzling and heartfelt." She loves the beach, fresh flowers, foggy redwood forests and a perfect pour over coffee. She is 25% sarcastic, 54% optimistic, and 122% bad at math (good thing she writes happy endings for a living). She and her family live mostly in Northern California.
Visit her at www.liariley.com to learn more.
Visit her at www.liariley.com to learn more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 214 reviews
January 12, 2024
2.5 rounded up
writing: good | plot: less annoying but still made my blood pressure rise | ending: sure
my opinion
This was less annoying than book #1 but hoes still tried me. And yes, I read this entire series because the author can write and is funny when she's not being out of pocket. In this one you have Neve, the most unprofessional journalist in all the land. Fiction does nothing to improve the basement-dweller rep of journalists I'll tell ya that. Whether they're crossing boundaries in thrillers or writing hit pieces of coaches because they're grumpy, fictional journalists continue to make an ass of themselves. JUSTICE FOR JOURNALISTS.
Anyways, other than Neve being the antithesis of an objective journalist, this was... okay? Again, very insta-lovely given the <200 pg length. My notes are a clusterfuck but I think in this one she says "there was a hiss and crackle in her clit" . Ma'am, you need immediate medical attention.
pros and cons
pros: i like the writing style and at times there was good bants between fmcs and mmc
cons: fmc not doing any favours for the rep of journalists, many out of pocket moments that take you right out the story
____
Check out my YouTube and my TikTok
writing: good | plot: less annoying but still made my blood pressure rise | ending: sure
my opinion
This was less annoying than book #1 but hoes still tried me. And yes, I read this entire series because the author can write and is funny when she's not being out of pocket. In this one you have Neve, the most unprofessional journalist in all the land. Fiction does nothing to improve the basement-dweller rep of journalists I'll tell ya that. Whether they're crossing boundaries in thrillers or writing hit pieces of coaches because they're grumpy, fictional journalists continue to make an ass of themselves. JUSTICE FOR JOURNALISTS.
Anyways, other than Neve being the antithesis of an objective journalist, this was... okay? Again, very insta-lovely given the <200 pg length. My notes are a clusterfuck but I think in this one she says "there was a hiss and crackle in her clit" . Ma'am, you need immediate medical attention.
pros and cons
pros: i like the writing style and at times there was good bants between fmcs and mmc
cons: fmc not doing any favours for the rep of journalists, many out of pocket moments that take you right out the story
____
Check out my YouTube and my TikTok
November 23, 2017
Lia Riley is a very dependable author for me. She writes romances that can only described as “feel-good” as they leave me feeling light and happy. Having thoroughly enjoyed her foray into hockey romance with Mister Hockey, I was excited to see what she would come up with in Head Coach. I loved loved loved the glimpses we got into the interactions between Neve, a sports journalist and Tor, head coach of the Denver Hellions. You all know I’m a big sucker for a good hate-to-love and Head Coach promised exactly that.
I was glued to the pages of this book from the very start, and it’s mostly because Lia Riley writes wonderful characters that you want to root for. Neve was relatable in many many ways. She’s a hardworking reporter, who unfortunately hasn’t had much luck in the love department. I think a lot of women will relate to Neve, especially to some of her body image issues that she expresses throughout the book. They felt very realistic to me. Despite her insecurities, she’s a strong and level-headed woman who went after what she wanted. Pairing her up with Tor was brilliant. Tor is as strong a personality as Neve. He’s more on the stoic side and doesn’t seem to express much. He loves his jobs and puts everything into it co-parenting his young daughter. I loved Tor because at first glance, he’s one of those grumpy, and closed-off hero, who has a surprising amount of depth and vulnerabilities to him.
Though Neve and Tor do not start off on the right foot, and there’s a steaming pile of antagonism between them, they are just perfect for each other. It’s obvious to the reader that they have incredible physical chemistry together, and the sexual tension between them only intensifies when Neve is roped into being his date at his ex’s wedding. Head Coach has some deliciously steamy scenes – I think this might be Lia’s steamiest book to date – but it’s the balance between the sex and the emotional growth in the two characters is what had me devouring the book. Neve and Tor grow a companionship that had me swooning and sighing in happiness. Seriously, the romance is adorable, and had me floating on a cloud! What’s more, this is a romance that is absolutely drama-free! Isn’t that the best thing you’ve heard all day?
If you like age-gap romances, hate-to-love and adorable shipworthy couples, you’ve got to try Head Coach. And you guys, the next book will feature a red-headed VIRGIN and I’m so here for it!!! Lia Riley pretty much makes all my romance book dreams come true!
November 27, 2017
“I want you. I've wanted you since the day I met you. I've only craved you.”
Is it just me or are the covers for these series not working for anyone else? Ugly covers aside, I was still very excited to start Head Coach! I'll admit, I wasn't too big a fan of Mister Hockey, but I needed to know what exactly was going down between the Denver Hellions' head coach and the top notch sports reporter who goes great lengths to get the story.
With the Hellions losing their best player, the head coach, Tor Gunnar, tries his best to keep his team in shape to maintain their winning reputation. But that's easier said than done and with the lockout creating more stress, Tor can't seem to catch a break. It doesn't help that Neve Angel, Denver's top sports reporter, has been doing her damnedest to get the scoop about the lockout. But when a bet shakes things up between the two, Neve and Tor will soon realize that sports may not be the only thing they have strong feelings for.
I devoured Head Coach in less that 24-hours. Enemies-to-lovers is one of my favorite tropes so I was living for the romance and all it's angst. I liked this sequel a lot more than the first book because of the fact that there was already and established connection between Neve and Tor so seeing their relationship progress to something more felt natural. The banter was entertaining as these two really took jabs at one another. Also, the chemistry between these two was fire! Lia Riley has been holding out on us and I need her to write more romances like this one.
Neve is a woman on a mission who does whatever it takes to get the tea. But underneath all that sleek confidence lies a woman who also has a number of insecurities, which is why I found Neve's character to be so relatable. Tor is such a grump and I'm in love. I really thought I would hate him because he is a bit of an asshole in the beginning, but he's got this sweet, sexy side that I can't help but love. I really liked the fact that Tor and his ex-wife had a great relationship because the bitter ex annoys me so much. My only complaint about this book was that it's a bit on the short side. I got to the end and was so sad because I needed more! I'm excited for the final installment in the Hellions Angels series and I can't wait to learn all about goalie with the reputation for trouble.
June 19, 2024
i can’t say it was good but it wasn’t nearly as abysmal as virgin territory.
i think a romance novella is a challenge for sure and this one doesn’t really do anything special.
i think a romance novella is a challenge for sure and this one doesn’t really do anything special.
December 16, 2017
If you're feeling stressed by the approaching holiday season and are looking for a fairly quick read that has heat, humour, and heart but doesn't require too much of a commitment, or bog you down with too much unnecessary drama, Lia Riley's Head Coach might be exactly what you need.
This is the second book in Riley's Hellions Angels series but you don't have to have read book one, Mister Hockey to enjoy this, because the author is kind enough to sum up the events that took place in that book and give background on the characters as they are related (in one case, literally) to the featured couple.
Mister Hockey was my first experience with this author and while I'm a total sucker for the sports romance subgenre, what made that book so refreshing and enjoyable in an unexpected way was the sense of reality Riley gave to her characters, specifically the superstar hockey player. She created a personality that was down to earth and far from the usual playboy we see in this particular flavour of romance. In Head Coach, she offers us a different dose of refreshing reality by way of the Denver Hellions' coach, Tor Gunnar. No spring chicken, Tor is in his forties with a young child to whom he is devoted and co-parents with his ex-wife. He doesn't date, doesn't hook up; his job is his life. He's failed at being a husband and unfortunately had a bad track record with relationships even before his marriage (but astonishingly there is no commitment-phobe trope present here – score!). The only thing he's good at, apart from being a dad and his job as coach, is saying the absolute worst thing possible to the one woman who has managed to, despite his best efforts, claw her way under his skin, Neve Angel, the local sports reporter.
A weekend away, enforced proximity, a shared hotel room, the romantic atmosphere of a wedding, the beautiful snowy Denver locale.. it couldn't be a more perfect situation for their snarky antagonistic banter to flame into something altogether more explosive and far more mutually satisfying. And it does.
Full review can be found at AAR.
This is the second book in Riley's Hellions Angels series but you don't have to have read book one, Mister Hockey to enjoy this, because the author is kind enough to sum up the events that took place in that book and give background on the characters as they are related (in one case, literally) to the featured couple.
Mister Hockey was my first experience with this author and while I'm a total sucker for the sports romance subgenre, what made that book so refreshing and enjoyable in an unexpected way was the sense of reality Riley gave to her characters, specifically the superstar hockey player. She created a personality that was down to earth and far from the usual playboy we see in this particular flavour of romance. In Head Coach, she offers us a different dose of refreshing reality by way of the Denver Hellions' coach, Tor Gunnar. No spring chicken, Tor is in his forties with a young child to whom he is devoted and co-parents with his ex-wife. He doesn't date, doesn't hook up; his job is his life. He's failed at being a husband and unfortunately had a bad track record with relationships even before his marriage (but astonishingly there is no commitment-phobe trope present here – score!). The only thing he's good at, apart from being a dad and his job as coach, is saying the absolute worst thing possible to the one woman who has managed to, despite his best efforts, claw her way under his skin, Neve Angel, the local sports reporter.
A weekend away, enforced proximity, a shared hotel room, the romantic atmosphere of a wedding, the beautiful snowy Denver locale.. it couldn't be a more perfect situation for their snarky antagonistic banter to flame into something altogether more explosive and far more mutually satisfying. And it does.
Full review can be found at AAR.
December 1, 2017
From page one, this book was so much fun. It's quite short, so it moves at a quick clip, but it worked really well. I am especially fond of low drama romances, and that is what I got here. Just enough drama to keep it interesting, but not distract from the awesome connection and chemistry between the hero and the heroine. And the last two chapters!!!
I l-o-v-e hockey romances, and am always looking for new series to add to my TBR. I had never read a Lia Riley book, but from page one, this book was so much fun, that I actually bought the first book in the series, and added the third to my wish list.
Pro: A fun and fantastic enemies-to-lovers story. Tor saw the media as the enemy, and Neve was always there to get her story. The two verbally sparred like gladiators, which was fun to watch, but even better was seeing all that hate turn to love.
•Pro: This was low drama. The major source of strife was Neve being a hockey reporter and Tor being the coach of the local team, and that was enough for drama for me.
•Pro: These were two passionate people and when they were together, there weren't just sparks, there was fire.
•Pro: There was a lot more to Tor than the angry vibes he gave off. I loved the way Riley slowly unwrapped him for us, revealing these wonderful things about him, bit by bit. He was a loving brother, doting father, committed co-parent, with a hidden sense of humor and a little bit of baggage too, which resulted in one great hero.
•Pro: Neve was a little spitfire, and she was lugging about some serious baggage too. I loved when Tor was able to help her unload some of that, and made her see what he saw when he looked at her.
•Con: I wish the book had been a bit longer, because I wanted more Tor and Neve, but I also would have liked a little more from the ending. It was an good ending, in that I know where this couple is going, and it was quite fun, but it was a little abrupt.
•Pro: This book was fun, fun, fun! I just kept grinning the whole time I read this book. Seriously, people were staring, because I just could not stop smiling.
•Pro: The wedding weekend was so brilliantly done. Riley found this perfect balance of comedy, angst, and heat, and I loved every second of it.
Overall: A fun, sexy, sweet enemies-to-lovers romance, which left me smiling from ear to ear.
*I would like to thank the publisher for the advanced copy of this book.
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I l-o-v-e hockey romances, and am always looking for new series to add to my TBR. I had never read a Lia Riley book, but from page one, this book was so much fun, that I actually bought the first book in the series, and added the third to my wish list.
Pro: A fun and fantastic enemies-to-lovers story. Tor saw the media as the enemy, and Neve was always there to get her story. The two verbally sparred like gladiators, which was fun to watch, but even better was seeing all that hate turn to love.
•Pro: This was low drama. The major source of strife was Neve being a hockey reporter and Tor being the coach of the local team, and that was enough for drama for me.
•Pro: These were two passionate people and when they were together, there weren't just sparks, there was fire.
•Pro: There was a lot more to Tor than the angry vibes he gave off. I loved the way Riley slowly unwrapped him for us, revealing these wonderful things about him, bit by bit. He was a loving brother, doting father, committed co-parent, with a hidden sense of humor and a little bit of baggage too, which resulted in one great hero.
•Pro: Neve was a little spitfire, and she was lugging about some serious baggage too. I loved when Tor was able to help her unload some of that, and made her see what he saw when he looked at her.
•Con: I wish the book had been a bit longer, because I wanted more Tor and Neve, but I also would have liked a little more from the ending. It was an good ending, in that I know where this couple is going, and it was quite fun, but it was a little abrupt.
•Pro: This book was fun, fun, fun! I just kept grinning the whole time I read this book. Seriously, people were staring, because I just could not stop smiling.
•Pro: The wedding weekend was so brilliantly done. Riley found this perfect balance of comedy, angst, and heat, and I loved every second of it.
Overall: A fun, sexy, sweet enemies-to-lovers romance, which left me smiling from ear to ear.
*I would like to thank the publisher for the advanced copy of this book.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
July 21, 2024
The first 20 pages of this book put me in a small reading slump and then I procrastinated reading it by reading a 780+ page book (ACOSF) before finishing this less than 200 page book 💀 After reading ACOSF, this book was such an easy read. There were like 6 total chapters and maybe 4 locations. This was basically porn with a plot and there was NO plot. The biggest issue these characters faced was a moose encounter and a sprained ankle. I knew this was a short but y’all there was no plot. Everything moved so quickly and in 20 different directions. And having the term “sex kitten” TWICE in a book unironically was terrible. However, it wasn’t the worst book I’ve read this year, but it certainly wasn’t the best. I wouldn’t recommend this book to anyone but personally, it was that bad. 4/10
November 25, 2017
Neve Angel and Tor Gunner are frenemies and neither the two shall mix. :) While there is mutual respect between Neve and Tor, they both seem to rub each other the wrong way. With every run-in, glares are cast, words are thrown like knives, and beneath it all lies a growing and unfulfilled sexual hunger. But a relationship between them would be doomed from the start.Neve is a top-notch sports journalist who writes about Denver’s Hellions, two-time U.S. champions and Pro hockey team. She pokes and nettles Tor Gunner whenever she gets the chance. But the tight-lipped coach drives her insane with his lack of information.
Tor is the Hellions head coach who refuses to give Neve the time of day or-what she’d much rather have-a great quote for the paper. However, she is also the star of his darker sexual fantasies. But after a failed marriage, Tor is a little gun shy and feels out of his element.
Then a bet happens.
Neve must now be Tor’s plus one to his ex-wife’s wedding.
The story fast forwards from here and what follows is a sexual culinary delight with little conflict. We find out that Tor is an expert dirty talker and Neve gives in to her more primal urges. And this all happens a little too easy for my taste. Their pent up frustration erupts too quickly and besides the awesome sex—there seems to be a lack of emotional growth.
I loved some of their witty dialogue and back-and-forth banter. I was just disappointed with the quick resolution. I wanted to feel the slow burn-something that really never happened.
Also there were a couple of times I felt taken out of the story-the build-up for book three fell flat for me. And one scene (a ghost story couple who makes noises in the hotel room) left me a scratching my head, questioning the reasoning for it.
Besides that—Head Coach does deliver the goods with above par writing. Something that A LOT of books are missing lately.
A solid read for those who like a fast-paced story with lots of sexy times. Oh—and loves a sexy-as-hell hockey coach :)
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Guest Reviewer Trish❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
May 12, 2024
THE COVER OF THIS BOOK I’m sorry no
November 28, 2017
Head Coach by Lia Riley is the second story in her Hellions Angels series, about a hockey team and its support staff. The title makes it clear who will be featured in this one, and it also has one of my favorite tropes – enemies to lovers! -in this romance about a grumpy head coach and his nemesis, a spirited female journalist.
Since day one Neve Angel has had to work hard to prove herself as a sports journalist, and covering the Hellions’ hockey team has been a blessing and a curse. She loves the sport, but trying to get information from head coach Tor Gunnar who hates dealing with the media is like pulling teeth. She’s been chatting with a Hellions’ fan on a social media app during excruciating traffic delays who, as luck would have, turns out to be none other than Tor (instead of a possible date, which she would definitely have preferred). Interestingly, when they’d been anonymous they’d been able to communicate much more effectively than in person.
When a social encounter set up by Tor’s star retired player, Jed, who is married to Neve’s sister Breezy (see book 1, Mister Hockey for that fun and sexy story) results in a bet that Neve loses, she finds herself accompanying Tor as his plus one for the wedding of his ex-wife. Hours in the car together? A weekend at a resort where they have to pretend to make nice? This could be the chance to explore that annoying sexual attraction that neither can ignore….
What a fun and sexy read! Take note authors – combine hockey romance with steamy scenes and an enemy to lovers story and you are guaranteed that it’s going to end up on my to-read list! This romance is written from both points of view which I always appreciate as it gives a good sense of the characters and their motivations.
Tor had a marriage that ended amicably enough, such that he and his ex-wife share custody of their daughter Olive. The reasons for the break up are standard ones –the time spent away from home and the all-consuming passion Tor has for the game and coaching left his ex feeling neglected. Now she’s getting married again. Tor had planned to go alone but the bet with Neve gives him double the satisfaction – he doesn’t have to be the odd man out at the wedding, plus in private quarters he and Neve can hash out the unresolved sexual tension that seems to dog them at every meeting.
And they certainly get their chance! The chemistry is off the charts and whoo boy, some of those sex scenes just about set my kindle on fire! Of course, sex won’t solve all their problems, as Neve’s job is to report on Tor’s team and she’ll be the one dealing with the conflict of interest issues.
I loved seeing the relationship Tor has with his daughter Olive, whom Neve meets at the wedding. She’s a smart, precocious child who is very protective of her father. Introducing a new partner into a parent-child relationship is always tricky and I liked how it was done here, as well as the fallout that occurs when the inevitable conflict comes up. The ending was a bit rushed for me, and the solution to their problems perhaps a bit too easy, but the overall story was very enjoyable. If you like hot hockey romances, you are in for a treat here!
This review also appears at Straight Shootin' Book Reviews : https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss for review.
Since day one Neve Angel has had to work hard to prove herself as a sports journalist, and covering the Hellions’ hockey team has been a blessing and a curse. She loves the sport, but trying to get information from head coach Tor Gunnar who hates dealing with the media is like pulling teeth. She’s been chatting with a Hellions’ fan on a social media app during excruciating traffic delays who, as luck would have, turns out to be none other than Tor (instead of a possible date, which she would definitely have preferred). Interestingly, when they’d been anonymous they’d been able to communicate much more effectively than in person.
When a social encounter set up by Tor’s star retired player, Jed, who is married to Neve’s sister Breezy (see book 1, Mister Hockey for that fun and sexy story) results in a bet that Neve loses, she finds herself accompanying Tor as his plus one for the wedding of his ex-wife. Hours in the car together? A weekend at a resort where they have to pretend to make nice? This could be the chance to explore that annoying sexual attraction that neither can ignore….
What a fun and sexy read! Take note authors – combine hockey romance with steamy scenes and an enemy to lovers story and you are guaranteed that it’s going to end up on my to-read list! This romance is written from both points of view which I always appreciate as it gives a good sense of the characters and their motivations.
Tor had a marriage that ended amicably enough, such that he and his ex-wife share custody of their daughter Olive. The reasons for the break up are standard ones –the time spent away from home and the all-consuming passion Tor has for the game and coaching left his ex feeling neglected. Now she’s getting married again. Tor had planned to go alone but the bet with Neve gives him double the satisfaction – he doesn’t have to be the odd man out at the wedding, plus in private quarters he and Neve can hash out the unresolved sexual tension that seems to dog them at every meeting.
And they certainly get their chance! The chemistry is off the charts and whoo boy, some of those sex scenes just about set my kindle on fire! Of course, sex won’t solve all their problems, as Neve’s job is to report on Tor’s team and she’ll be the one dealing with the conflict of interest issues.
I loved seeing the relationship Tor has with his daughter Olive, whom Neve meets at the wedding. She’s a smart, precocious child who is very protective of her father. Introducing a new partner into a parent-child relationship is always tricky and I liked how it was done here, as well as the fallout that occurs when the inevitable conflict comes up. The ending was a bit rushed for me, and the solution to their problems perhaps a bit too easy, but the overall story was very enjoyable. If you like hot hockey romances, you are in for a treat here!
This review also appears at Straight Shootin' Book Reviews : https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss for review.
November 16, 2017
He’d Mr. Darcy dissed her in the stadium parking lot, but maybe she was Elizabeth Bennet-ing him with all of her prejudice. There was so much toxic masculinity in the world that sometimes it was hard to remember that good guys existed.
I’m more than happy to admit that I am a Lia Riley fangirl. Since her debut novel, Upside Down, I’ve read and enjoy everything she’s written. Her style is so me that I can’t help but wonder . . . Does she actually write these books for me?!
I mean, obviously, no. She doesn’t. But like her previous books, Head Coach was a simple joy to read. It’s an enemies-to-lovers tale that’s built up just right—awkward moments, angry moments and arousing moments melded together to build a chemistry between Tor and Neve that made me smile. A lot.
Guys, I TOR through this book (← see what I did there? Title puns FTW!). I didn’t want it to end—and yes, while I should note I felt the ending had a slightly rushed/over of nowhere feel to it, I loved the resolution as a whole. Because it gave me good feels. Warm, fuzzy, happy, romantic fangirl feels.
But herein lies my problem—I couldn’t tear my eyes from the pages. And who could blame me? Neve was strong and sassy, her inner shyness and self-doubt hidden by her spirited outer shell. Meanwhile, Tor was . . . Tor. He has that gruff, grumpy thing happening that Ms. Riley writes so well, his dirty-talk was on point, and yet, he also showed a soft center that made a girl want to sigh dreamily. And jump his bones. Maybe even at the same time.
Look, perhaps it’s the fangirl in me, but Head Coach felt like all my favorite things about romance brought together by a stoic, stern Head Coach, his fierce, fiery Journalist and an author that seems to instinctively know the way to my heart (and my one-click finger).
She was a thunderclap on a sunny day, a four-leaf clover in a sidewalk crack, hitting every green light the whole drive home. Wholly unexpected. Better than anything he’d ever imagined.
~ 4.5 Rovhal STARS ~
I’m more than happy to admit that I am a Lia Riley fangirl. Since her debut novel, Upside Down, I’ve read and enjoy everything she’s written. Her style is so me that I can’t help but wonder . . . Does she actually write these books for me?!
I mean, obviously, no. She doesn’t. But like her previous books, Head Coach was a simple joy to read. It’s an enemies-to-lovers tale that’s built up just right—awkward moments, angry moments and arousing moments melded together to build a chemistry between Tor and Neve that made me smile. A lot.
Guys, I TOR through this book (← see what I did there? Title puns FTW!). I didn’t want it to end—and yes, while I should note I felt the ending had a slightly rushed/over of nowhere feel to it, I loved the resolution as a whole. Because it gave me good feels. Warm, fuzzy, happy, romantic fangirl feels.
But herein lies my problem—I couldn’t tear my eyes from the pages. And who could blame me? Neve was strong and sassy, her inner shyness and self-doubt hidden by her spirited outer shell. Meanwhile, Tor was . . . Tor. He has that gruff, grumpy thing happening that Ms. Riley writes so well, his dirty-talk was on point, and yet, he also showed a soft center that made a girl want to sigh dreamily. And jump his bones. Maybe even at the same time.
Look, perhaps it’s the fangirl in me, but Head Coach felt like all my favorite things about romance brought together by a stoic, stern Head Coach, his fierce, fiery Journalist and an author that seems to instinctively know the way to my heart (and my one-click finger).
She was a thunderclap on a sunny day, a four-leaf clover in a sidewalk crack, hitting every green light the whole drive home. Wholly unexpected. Better than anything he’d ever imagined.
~ 4.5 Rovhal STARS ~
November 21, 2017
Originally posted on NallaReads
Oh my. If you're looking for an irresistibly cute enemies-to-lovers romance read, then Head Coach is your story!
tor has spent months trying to escape the spitfire that is Neve Angel, a sports reporter that gets on his last nerve but also stays on his mind all night. He can't deny that he's attracted to her, he just also doesn't have to like it. Now with Denver hockey in a lockout, he's got a lot more time on his hands and he can't get her out of his thoughts.
Neve's distractingly attracted to Hellions' coach Tor Gunnar, but being a woman in a male-dominated field has enough issues already. But when push comes to shove and Tor bets her a weekend away, she starts to see beyond the line of professional. He's disturbingly sweet and now she's seeing a whole new side to the tough, stone-faced coach. He's got a sweet spot for his daughter and for making Neve swoon.
As these two have to battle out going from enemies to lovers, they also have to fight their jobs on the line. Can Tor handle the cutthroat world of sports reporting for Neve's career? Can Neve handle separating her personal life from her work and not risk what could be a future with the hard headed hockey coach? A fast and sexy read for sports romance fans with a perfect tease for the next in the series!
Oh my. If you're looking for an irresistibly cute enemies-to-lovers romance read, then Head Coach is your story!
tor has spent months trying to escape the spitfire that is Neve Angel, a sports reporter that gets on his last nerve but also stays on his mind all night. He can't deny that he's attracted to her, he just also doesn't have to like it. Now with Denver hockey in a lockout, he's got a lot more time on his hands and he can't get her out of his thoughts.
Neve's distractingly attracted to Hellions' coach Tor Gunnar, but being a woman in a male-dominated field has enough issues already. But when push comes to shove and Tor bets her a weekend away, she starts to see beyond the line of professional. He's disturbingly sweet and now she's seeing a whole new side to the tough, stone-faced coach. He's got a sweet spot for his daughter and for making Neve swoon.
As these two have to battle out going from enemies to lovers, they also have to fight their jobs on the line. Can Tor handle the cutthroat world of sports reporting for Neve's career? Can Neve handle separating her personal life from her work and not risk what could be a future with the hard headed hockey coach? A fast and sexy read for sports romance fans with a perfect tease for the next in the series!
November 22, 2017
3.75 - 4 stars
This was a quick, cute read. review to follow
This was a quick, cute read. review to follow
November 21, 2022
4 stars great Sunday read!
Short sweet and sexy a nice quick read:)
Short sweet and sexy a nice quick read:)
June 5, 2024
I genuinely fucking loved this
November 22, 2024
Cute, quick read! Super fun enemies-to-lovers.
November 22, 2017
Lia Riley’s HEAD COACH is top-shelf. Sports reporter Neve Angel and Hellions’ head coach Tor Gunnar are nemesis. However, a game of air hockey might change it all. This contemporary sports romance is suitable for adult audiences. The story takes place in Colorado.
I looked forward to reading Neve’s and Tor’s story ever since book one, MISTER HOCKEY. The two have an interesting relationship, enemies that are attracted to each other. The plot was clever and believable. There were a lot of interesting twists throughout the story. I liked the wedding aspect of the novel. I love when Neve went dress shopping. Kendall was just what she needed. I thought the traffic app aspect was smart. The moose was entertaining.
Lia Riley does a great job with her character development. Neve is smart and feisty. She has some self-esteem issues. Tor is a good man and father. He is reasonable. He is usually good at reading people. I like that Neve and Tor always respected each other. Both love their jobs and realize that a relationship between the two could cause a conflict of interest.
I like how the story ended. It felt well concluded. Because of the tidbits told about Patrick Donnelly that happened in this book, I cannot wait for book three, VIRGIN TERRITORY, to hear his story. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
Merged review:
Head Coach (Hellions Angels #2) by Lia Riley Lia Riley’s HEAD COACH is top-shelf. Sports reporter Neve Angel and Hellions’ head coach Tor Gunnar are nemesis. However, a game of air hockey might change it all. This contemporary sports romance is suitable for adult audiences. The story takes place in Colorado.
I looked forward to reading Neve’s and Tor’s story ever since book one, MISTER HOCKEY. The two have an interesting relationship, enemies that are attracted to each other. The plot was clever and believable. There were a lot of interesting twists throughout the story. I liked the wedding aspect of the novel. I love when Neve went dress shopping. Kendall was just what she needed. I thought the traffic app aspect was smart. The moose was entertaining.
Lia Riley does a great job with her character development. Neve is smart and feisty. She has some self-esteem issues. Tor is a good man and father. He is reasonable. He is usually good at reading people. I like that Neve and Tor always respected each other. Both love their jobs and realize that a relationship between the two could cause a conflict of interest.
I like how the story ended. It felt well concluded. Because of the tidbits told about Patrick Donnelly that happened in this book, I cannot wait for book three, VIRGIN TERRITORY, to hear his story. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
I looked forward to reading Neve’s and Tor’s story ever since book one, MISTER HOCKEY. The two have an interesting relationship, enemies that are attracted to each other. The plot was clever and believable. There were a lot of interesting twists throughout the story. I liked the wedding aspect of the novel. I love when Neve went dress shopping. Kendall was just what she needed. I thought the traffic app aspect was smart. The moose was entertaining.
Lia Riley does a great job with her character development. Neve is smart and feisty. She has some self-esteem issues. Tor is a good man and father. He is reasonable. He is usually good at reading people. I like that Neve and Tor always respected each other. Both love their jobs and realize that a relationship between the two could cause a conflict of interest.
I like how the story ended. It felt well concluded. Because of the tidbits told about Patrick Donnelly that happened in this book, I cannot wait for book three, VIRGIN TERRITORY, to hear his story. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
Merged review:
Head Coach (Hellions Angels #2) by Lia Riley Lia Riley’s HEAD COACH is top-shelf. Sports reporter Neve Angel and Hellions’ head coach Tor Gunnar are nemesis. However, a game of air hockey might change it all. This contemporary sports romance is suitable for adult audiences. The story takes place in Colorado.
I looked forward to reading Neve’s and Tor’s story ever since book one, MISTER HOCKEY. The two have an interesting relationship, enemies that are attracted to each other. The plot was clever and believable. There were a lot of interesting twists throughout the story. I liked the wedding aspect of the novel. I love when Neve went dress shopping. Kendall was just what she needed. I thought the traffic app aspect was smart. The moose was entertaining.
Lia Riley does a great job with her character development. Neve is smart and feisty. She has some self-esteem issues. Tor is a good man and father. He is reasonable. He is usually good at reading people. I like that Neve and Tor always respected each other. Both love their jobs and realize that a relationship between the two could cause a conflict of interest.
I like how the story ended. It felt well concluded. Because of the tidbits told about Patrick Donnelly that happened in this book, I cannot wait for book three, VIRGIN TERRITORY, to hear his story. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
December 19, 2017
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a review.
I thought this would be a fun enemies-to-lovers romance, and I love hockey, so I assumed there was no downside to picking up this book. As it turns out, I was not a fan. At all. I think a lot of it is that the book was just way too short for all of the plot elements Riley wanted to throw in there. Both Neve and Tor had really elaborate backstories explaining why they’d never been in a good relationship before, but we never saw them grow past that or share those backstories with each other; they were just told to the reader and really didn’t have much bearing on the book. There was little to no character growth and I really couldn’t tell you why the two of them wound up together, as they really didn’t have many conversations with each other that weren’t fights.
Speaking of fights, Tor said some really nasty comments about Neve early in the book, and there was no groveling before they started sleeping together. When a guy is that mean (or a girl, for that matter), there needs to be tons of groveling!! But Neve got over it very quickly and they never discussed it again. Not ok. Plus, those plot elements? They got increasingly cheesy and ridiculous, and by the end I couldn’t stop rolling my eyes. I was not rooting for either Neve or Tor to get their happily ever after and only finished this book because it was so short.
I thought this would be a fun enemies-to-lovers romance, and I love hockey, so I assumed there was no downside to picking up this book. As it turns out, I was not a fan. At all. I think a lot of it is that the book was just way too short for all of the plot elements Riley wanted to throw in there. Both Neve and Tor had really elaborate backstories explaining why they’d never been in a good relationship before, but we never saw them grow past that or share those backstories with each other; they were just told to the reader and really didn’t have much bearing on the book. There was little to no character growth and I really couldn’t tell you why the two of them wound up together, as they really didn’t have many conversations with each other that weren’t fights.
Speaking of fights, Tor said some really nasty comments about Neve early in the book, and there was no groveling before they started sleeping together. When a guy is that mean (or a girl, for that matter), there needs to be tons of groveling!! But Neve got over it very quickly and they never discussed it again. Not ok. Plus, those plot elements? They got increasingly cheesy and ridiculous, and by the end I couldn’t stop rolling my eyes. I was not rooting for either Neve or Tor to get their happily ever after and only finished this book because it was so short.
December 18, 2017
This was cute, but overall, I had the same issue with it that I have with most novellas - it's just too short. The story feels rushed, and you don't really have enough time to see the relationship between Tor, head coach of a professional hockey team, and Neve, a hot-shot reporter, develop.
I got a little bit of whiplash with their feelings & the conflict -they hate each other, they like each other and go away for the weekend together, something small happens and they're back to not liking/trusting each other, and then bam - the conflict is easily resolved (with a solution out of left field) and tied up in a too neat bow. It was all just too fast and too easy and not supported by the story line or dialogue.
This was my first Lia Riley, and I might try a full length book by her. I've just biased against novellas in general and find them rarely done well in my opinion.
ARC provided by publisher for an honest review.
I got a little bit of whiplash with their feelings & the conflict -they hate each other, they like each other and go away for the weekend together, something small happens and they're back to not liking/trusting each other, and then bam - the conflict is easily resolved (with a solution out of left field) and tied up in a too neat bow. It was all just too fast and too easy and not supported by the story line or dialogue.
This was my first Lia Riley, and I might try a full length book by her. I've just biased against novellas in general and find them rarely done well in my opinion.
ARC provided by publisher for an honest review.
November 25, 2017
Plot: 3/5
Characterisation: 3.5/5
Prose: 4/5
How much I enjoyed it: 3/5
Has a lot of potential with interesting character and premise but the plot is average.
Characterisation: 3.5/5
Prose: 4/5
How much I enjoyed it: 3/5
Has a lot of potential with interesting character and premise but the plot is average.
November 21, 2017
I'm not honestly sure that there is anything I love more than a growly, surly alpha with an ooey gooey underbelly. And that, friends, is exactly what Ms. Riley has given us with Tor Gunnar, and I - not surprisingly - found him utterly irresistible.
Enemies to lovers romance is a tricky trope for me. I don't always connect and I sometimes find myself easily frustrated by the animosity, wanting to skip ahead to the good stuff (you know, swoons). This one hit all my sweet spots though - I never felt like it was too harsh on the "enemies" front, and I completely bought into the "lovers" transition. I felt like the burn between them was apparent even as they traded barbs, and when they let themselves explore their heat? Woo baby. Prepare yourself for sparks and swoons and satisfied sighs.
This is a super quick and super easy read. It wrapped up a little quickly and perhaps a smidge too neatly in the end, but the whole package was such a fun, sexy, enjoyable reading experience that I honestly had no trouble buying in to Tor and Neve's happily ever after. Head Coach was a hit for me, and I cannot wait for more Hellions Angels (seriously, Patch? **grabby hands**). ~ Shelly, 4 Stars
***
What’s better than an enemies-to-lovers story with a growly alpha and a spitfire of a leading lady? Not much, in my opinion! I’ve been waiting to see the sparks fly and the flames smolder between Tor and Neve since Mister Hockey and I was not disappointed!
The relationship between Tor and Neve is touchy, to say the least! Tor hates the media and Neve is a reporter. The animosity is real—but there’s also a layer of heat under there too. A something that neither one is willing to admit, until they have to . . . at a wedding, no less. You know love is in the air and all that! There was a whole lot of . . . err, loving going on between Neve and Tor. Hot, sexy, dirty loving. *eye brow waggle*
I adored both Neve and Tor. Their relationship, at first, was not good, but damn, when they finally admitted their feelings, their relationship was amazing. I loved their banter. Loved the way they loved each other and their family and friends. They’re so awesome together—bringing out the absolute best in each other. Sigh. And when they finally get it together in the end—fireworks.
I can’t wait for more in this excellent Hellions Angels series. Virgin Territory is going to be epic, I think! ~ Missy, 4.5 stars
Enemies to lovers romance is a tricky trope for me. I don't always connect and I sometimes find myself easily frustrated by the animosity, wanting to skip ahead to the good stuff (you know, swoons). This one hit all my sweet spots though - I never felt like it was too harsh on the "enemies" front, and I completely bought into the "lovers" transition. I felt like the burn between them was apparent even as they traded barbs, and when they let themselves explore their heat? Woo baby. Prepare yourself for sparks and swoons and satisfied sighs.
This is a super quick and super easy read. It wrapped up a little quickly and perhaps a smidge too neatly in the end, but the whole package was such a fun, sexy, enjoyable reading experience that I honestly had no trouble buying in to Tor and Neve's happily ever after. Head Coach was a hit for me, and I cannot wait for more Hellions Angels (seriously, Patch? **grabby hands**). ~ Shelly, 4 Stars
***
What’s better than an enemies-to-lovers story with a growly alpha and a spitfire of a leading lady? Not much, in my opinion! I’ve been waiting to see the sparks fly and the flames smolder between Tor and Neve since Mister Hockey and I was not disappointed!
The relationship between Tor and Neve is touchy, to say the least! Tor hates the media and Neve is a reporter. The animosity is real—but there’s also a layer of heat under there too. A something that neither one is willing to admit, until they have to . . . at a wedding, no less. You know love is in the air and all that! There was a whole lot of . . . err, loving going on between Neve and Tor. Hot, sexy, dirty loving. *eye brow waggle*
I adored both Neve and Tor. Their relationship, at first, was not good, but damn, when they finally admitted their feelings, their relationship was amazing. I loved their banter. Loved the way they loved each other and their family and friends. They’re so awesome together—bringing out the absolute best in each other. Sigh. And when they finally get it together in the end—fireworks.
I can’t wait for more in this excellent Hellions Angels series. Virgin Territory is going to be epic, I think! ~ Missy, 4.5 stars
December 24, 2017
I enjoyed the first book in this series, Mister Hockey, but I only read that so I could get started on this romance and oh boy was this one good.
I adored Tor Gunnar from the start. There is something about a gruff older man in a book which I am a sucker for every time and Tor ticked all of my boxes. He was sweet and charming, and a big fan of puns, but that was hidden under a layer of straight faces, seriousness, and sharp remarks which were designed to push folks away.
Even in Mister Hockey, I could tell that sparks were going to fly between him and Neve Angel. Neve comes across as a determined strong woman who knows what she wants and has the confidence to go after it. In reality, she is shy and self-conscious, and like most women has an army of doubts and insecurities she hasn't given voice to. She may get under Tor's skin and appear to have her shit together but in reality, she is winging it and as much as she can get under Tor's skin, he can also get under hers and give rise to all of her doubts without ever realising it.
The pair together are a bundle of snark, banter and insecurities with a whole bunch of sexual tension thrown in there for good luck. These two were always going to have a brilliantly fun book and that is exactly what Head Coach is. I actually didn't even bother reading the summary for this one before buying but I knew it was going to be good. Every page was a joy and I did get a little nervous that the pair might not use their words enough leading to misunderstandings which can always frustrate me (why do romance characters not realise that communication is the key to any good relationship?) but whilst there were misunderstandings they were never the reason for the struggle in the growing relationship between Neve and Tor, instead it was life and jobs and normal everyday things and I loved that. Sometimes a girl does not want to read about overblown relationship drama and would rather see real people figuring out how to make their relationship work in the real world.
This book worked for me in many ways and I totally cannot wait to read the next book in the series. They just keep getting better.
I adored Tor Gunnar from the start. There is something about a gruff older man in a book which I am a sucker for every time and Tor ticked all of my boxes. He was sweet and charming, and a big fan of puns, but that was hidden under a layer of straight faces, seriousness, and sharp remarks which were designed to push folks away.
Even in Mister Hockey, I could tell that sparks were going to fly between him and Neve Angel. Neve comes across as a determined strong woman who knows what she wants and has the confidence to go after it. In reality, she is shy and self-conscious, and like most women has an army of doubts and insecurities she hasn't given voice to. She may get under Tor's skin and appear to have her shit together but in reality, she is winging it and as much as she can get under Tor's skin, he can also get under hers and give rise to all of her doubts without ever realising it.
The pair together are a bundle of snark, banter and insecurities with a whole bunch of sexual tension thrown in there for good luck. These two were always going to have a brilliantly fun book and that is exactly what Head Coach is. I actually didn't even bother reading the summary for this one before buying but I knew it was going to be good. Every page was a joy and I did get a little nervous that the pair might not use their words enough leading to misunderstandings which can always frustrate me (why do romance characters not realise that communication is the key to any good relationship?) but whilst there were misunderstandings they were never the reason for the struggle in the growing relationship between Neve and Tor, instead it was life and jobs and normal everyday things and I loved that. Sometimes a girl does not want to read about overblown relationship drama and would rather see real people figuring out how to make their relationship work in the real world.
This book worked for me in many ways and I totally cannot wait to read the next book in the series. They just keep getting better.
November 25, 2017
I. Loved. This. Book!
It feels like a betrayal to say this, but Neve and Tor's story might even top Breezy and Jed's. The enemies-to-lovers element (with a hint of You've Got Mail/The Shop Around the Corner vibes make this one so much fun to read--I can't tell you how many bits I read out loud to Mini Moe #2 (I had a captive audience while reading much of it--she was driving me around for half of the day). And the way Tor interacted with his ten-year-old daughter, Olive? Heart. Melting.
The conflict here was a believable one--a sports reporter and the coach of her favorite hockey team, the guy her editor loves for her to skewer in articles such as "The Five Worst Coaches in the NHL," complicated by the fact that his best friend and the former captain is living with Neve's sister--and for the most part, they handled things like grown-ups, which was nice. There were a few things that I would have liked expanded on (the way their main conflict is resolved literally comes out of the blue--was she working on that prior? Or did it seriously fall into her lap the way it seems in the book?) but overall this was just a really fun read, even if it was sadly lacking in hockey (I don't even want to say why, for fear of a real-life repeat of that nightmare scenario).
Head Coach works just fine as a standalone--even though the hero and heroine of book one ( Mister Hockey ) are in this book a few times, they're usually kissing. (You'll probably be tempted to find out how they got together, though, so I highly recommend reading their book to find out.) The next in the series, Virgin Territory . doesn't come out until March, so you've got plenty of time! ;)
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
It feels like a betrayal to say this, but Neve and Tor's story might even top Breezy and Jed's. The enemies-to-lovers element (with a hint of You've Got Mail/The Shop Around the Corner vibes make this one so much fun to read--I can't tell you how many bits I read out loud to Mini Moe #2 (I had a captive audience while reading much of it--she was driving me around for half of the day). And the way Tor interacted with his ten-year-old daughter, Olive? Heart. Melting.
The conflict here was a believable one--a sports reporter and the coach of her favorite hockey team, the guy her editor loves for her to skewer in articles such as "The Five Worst Coaches in the NHL," complicated by the fact that his best friend and the former captain is living with Neve's sister--and for the most part, they handled things like grown-ups, which was nice. There were a few things that I would have liked expanded on (the way their main conflict is resolved literally comes out of the blue--was she working on that prior? Or did it seriously fall into her lap the way it seems in the book?) but overall this was just a really fun read, even if it was sadly lacking in hockey (I don't even want to say why, for fear of a real-life repeat of that nightmare scenario).
Head Coach works just fine as a standalone--even though the hero and heroine of book one ( Mister Hockey ) are in this book a few times, they're usually kissing. (You'll probably be tempted to find out how they got together, though, so I highly recommend reading their book to find out.) The next in the series, Virgin Territory . doesn't come out until March, so you've got plenty of time! ;)
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
November 29, 2017
The foundation for Neve and Tor's story was laid out in Mister Hockey making it clear that the outward animosity they displayed toward each other masked an underlying simmering attraction. So throw them together for a weekend with only one hotel room left and prepare to watch the sparks fly ;)
The similarities between Neve and Tor were quite surprising. Both have deep insecurities from incidents in their pasts that affect them forming relationships and undermine their self-confidence. Both have also used their careers as a way to fill the void in their lives.
I really liked the way in which Lia portrayed body image issues affecting not only those with larger builds but basically anyone at all. Everyone has aspects of their body/appearance they are unhappy with, nobody is perfect, but these issues are generally exasperated by media/social pressure to conform to fit a stereotype. Neve's body issues really began when she competed in figure skating. Hateful words can cut deeper than any knife and the scars last a lot longer.
Lia touches upon the topical issues of sexism and gender inequality within Head Coach; Neve is a woman in the male-dominated world of sports journalism and encounters a great deal of bias as a result.
I loved the way the relationship between Tor and Neve occurs naturally and although they encounter some stumbling blocks they are mature in their handling of the situation. However, the largest barrier they have is the clash of their careers, which, until now have been their sole focus. Is this a barrier they can't overcome or will there be a surprising solution!!!!
Lia adds a fun element to the story with a legend of match-making ghosts ♥
The path has been set for the next book in the series - Virgin Territory - featuring the temperamental Patrick 'Patch' Donnelly!!!
I am pretty sure Patch will be needing a lot of help from Tor and Neve ensuring we get to see them more in the next book :)
The similarities between Neve and Tor were quite surprising. Both have deep insecurities from incidents in their pasts that affect them forming relationships and undermine their self-confidence. Both have also used their careers as a way to fill the void in their lives.
I really liked the way in which Lia portrayed body image issues affecting not only those with larger builds but basically anyone at all. Everyone has aspects of their body/appearance they are unhappy with, nobody is perfect, but these issues are generally exasperated by media/social pressure to conform to fit a stereotype. Neve's body issues really began when she competed in figure skating. Hateful words can cut deeper than any knife and the scars last a lot longer.
Lia touches upon the topical issues of sexism and gender inequality within Head Coach; Neve is a woman in the male-dominated world of sports journalism and encounters a great deal of bias as a result.
I loved the way the relationship between Tor and Neve occurs naturally and although they encounter some stumbling blocks they are mature in their handling of the situation. However, the largest barrier they have is the clash of their careers, which, until now have been their sole focus. Is this a barrier they can't overcome or will there be a surprising solution!!!!
Lia adds a fun element to the story with a legend of match-making ghosts ♥
The path has been set for the next book in the series - Virgin Territory - featuring the temperamental Patrick 'Patch' Donnelly!!!
I am pretty sure Patch will be needing a lot of help from Tor and Neve ensuring we get to see them more in the next book :)
November 29, 2017
I love Lia Riley books for the escape factor – it’s easy to jump in and read just to hide away from the chaos of the world around you. In Head Coach, we are reintroduced to Tor, the head coach of the Hellion’s Angels hockey team, friend of Jed (Mr. Hockey) and not a fan of the dance coaches are expected to do with the media. In fact, if he could burn all the press passes in the arena – he would do that just to avoid talking with them. In particular, he’s frustrated and flummoxed by one particular sports writer who just happens to be the sister of his friend’s girl: Neve.
Neve has worked her entire life (and works hard) to prove herself as a sports journalist. She researches exhaustively, and as a lifetime fan of the Hellions, she seems always to ask the questions that no one else does, much to Tor’s disgust and discomfiture. The two have poked and prodded at one another for years, and a lost bet leads Tor to invite her as his plus one to an out of town wedding.
With the two away from their jobs and the necessary back and forth – things heat up spectacularly – even though neither is looking for anything more than that weekend. It’s back to normal as they both try to deny the undeniable: resulting in several memories that heat up even the most cold-hearted. Full of the things that makes a Riley book fun: Tor’s change into smutty talking, all alpha male and Neve’s enjoyment of being ‘that woman’ for only a weekend has to be enough. Or is it? If you like the fun of a Lia Riley book with the lack of drama and angst as everyone rethinks everything rather than going down the path destined for them to follow – you’ll enjoy this book with a side of ice water!
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Neve has worked her entire life (and works hard) to prove herself as a sports journalist. She researches exhaustively, and as a lifetime fan of the Hellions, she seems always to ask the questions that no one else does, much to Tor’s disgust and discomfiture. The two have poked and prodded at one another for years, and a lost bet leads Tor to invite her as his plus one to an out of town wedding.
With the two away from their jobs and the necessary back and forth – things heat up spectacularly – even though neither is looking for anything more than that weekend. It’s back to normal as they both try to deny the undeniable: resulting in several memories that heat up even the most cold-hearted. Full of the things that makes a Riley book fun: Tor’s change into smutty talking, all alpha male and Neve’s enjoyment of being ‘that woman’ for only a weekend has to be enough. Or is it? If you like the fun of a Lia Riley book with the lack of drama and angst as everyone rethinks everything rather than going down the path destined for them to follow – you’ll enjoy this book with a side of ice water!
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
November 7, 2017
‘Head Coach’ is a enemies to lovers romance—a favourite trope of mine—with a conflict built into ‘opposing’ careers: a sports journalist and the celebrity coach of a famous team who have certainly done enough egging and prodding each side over the years. So it was more than fun to watch that relationship flip on its head one weekend as Tor Gunnar and Neve Angel suddenly waded into uncharted but scorching hot territory.
Yet this conflict that had conveniently put them in opposing camps now worked against their relationship past that infamous weekend—I did cringe at how reactive Neve could get sometimes—though Lia Riley does get through it a little too easily before this rather short story closed on their HEA. But apart from the all-too-convenient resolution that seemed to come out of nowhere that made it all the more unbelievable as a quick resolution, ‘Head Coach’ was still an easy read with the angst kept at a minimum and the immaturity metre dialled to low.
I do like Lia Riley’s writing as well; it reminds me of the assured style of Tessa Bailey complete with the dirty-talking alpha males while her characters sometimes get into unexpected situations that came out of the blue.
'Head Coach' is my first Lia Riley story and it definitely wouldn’t be my last.
*ARC by the publisher via Edelweiss
Yet this conflict that had conveniently put them in opposing camps now worked against their relationship past that infamous weekend—I did cringe at how reactive Neve could get sometimes—though Lia Riley does get through it a little too easily before this rather short story closed on their HEA. But apart from the all-too-convenient resolution that seemed to come out of nowhere that made it all the more unbelievable as a quick resolution, ‘Head Coach’ was still an easy read with the angst kept at a minimum and the immaturity metre dialled to low.
I do like Lia Riley’s writing as well; it reminds me of the assured style of Tessa Bailey complete with the dirty-talking alpha males while her characters sometimes get into unexpected situations that came out of the blue.
'Head Coach' is my first Lia Riley story and it definitely wouldn’t be my last.
*ARC by the publisher via Edelweiss
November 27, 2017
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
I enjoyed the first book in this series a lot, so was delighted to get this second story to review. I would suggest that reading book one would be sensible, as you get some of the background and characters fixed, but it is a great read in its own right too.
There is a thread of absolutely lovely humour running through this book which had me laughing out loud quite a few times. It is not really a comedy, but Neve and Tor certainly come up with some fabulous lines, and that is not including his terrible jokes! The puns come thick and fast at one point and are perfect.
It is a low drama, but highly entertaining story, with some poignant moments, some ethical issues, and some super hot chemistry. It is a second chance at getting things right for both of these people who have closed themselves off from love for the sake of their much loved careers.
Can't wait to catch up with them again in future installments.
I enjoyed the first book in this series a lot, so was delighted to get this second story to review. I would suggest that reading book one would be sensible, as you get some of the background and characters fixed, but it is a great read in its own right too.
There is a thread of absolutely lovely humour running through this book which had me laughing out loud quite a few times. It is not really a comedy, but Neve and Tor certainly come up with some fabulous lines, and that is not including his terrible jokes! The puns come thick and fast at one point and are perfect.
It is a low drama, but highly entertaining story, with some poignant moments, some ethical issues, and some super hot chemistry. It is a second chance at getting things right for both of these people who have closed themselves off from love for the sake of their much loved careers.
Can't wait to catch up with them again in future installments.
August 2, 2018
Neve is a sports journalist and she keeps butting head with Tor, the grouchy Denver Hellions hockey coach. For Tor work is everything and he’s had his heart broken because the woman he was married to didn’t understand this. Tor has an icy exterior and makes sure nobody sees his weaknesses, most of all Neve. He'd rather treat her with contempt than showing her parts of his real self. Tor doesn’t like dealing with the media, especially not with the woman who doesn’t back down from a challenging article.
It isn’t easy for Tor not to think about Neve. She rubs him the wrong way, but there’s something about her that makes him want to get closer to her as well. When they meet outside of work for the first time, sparks fly. How will they make getting to know each other work when they professionally detest one another? Tor asks Neve to be his date to a wedding he'd rather not attend. Will she agree to be his support system and do Tor and Neve have a chance to make things work between them or will their jobs make it impossible for them to connect?
Head Coach is a sexy love story. Neve is a strong and independent woman. She works in a world that’s dominated by men and has fought hard to earn respect. Tor doesn’t like dealing with the reporter with claws, but secretly he wants to get to know Neve better. He’s a complex person, troubled by insecurities and the same goes for Neve. On the outside they come across as confident and tough, but on the inside they’re sensitive and vulnerable. When they peel off each other’s layers they discover there’s a lot they like about each other. There’s much more between them than the initial hate and their chemistry is through the roof. I couldn’t turn the pages quickly enough to find out if they’d be able to get rid off all the negative feelings and go for love instead.
Lia Riley knows how to make sparks fly. I love how well her main characters connect. She always manages to describe their feelings on many different levels and that makes it possible for the readers to really get to know her main characters. I love how each moment of passion truly means something. She combines these deep moments with adorable quirks and this results in wonderful romance. I absolutely loved Head Coach, it’s sporty, fun and entertaining.
It isn’t easy for Tor not to think about Neve. She rubs him the wrong way, but there’s something about her that makes him want to get closer to her as well. When they meet outside of work for the first time, sparks fly. How will they make getting to know each other work when they professionally detest one another? Tor asks Neve to be his date to a wedding he'd rather not attend. Will she agree to be his support system and do Tor and Neve have a chance to make things work between them or will their jobs make it impossible for them to connect?
Head Coach is a sexy love story. Neve is a strong and independent woman. She works in a world that’s dominated by men and has fought hard to earn respect. Tor doesn’t like dealing with the reporter with claws, but secretly he wants to get to know Neve better. He’s a complex person, troubled by insecurities and the same goes for Neve. On the outside they come across as confident and tough, but on the inside they’re sensitive and vulnerable. When they peel off each other’s layers they discover there’s a lot they like about each other. There’s much more between them than the initial hate and their chemistry is through the roof. I couldn’t turn the pages quickly enough to find out if they’d be able to get rid off all the negative feelings and go for love instead.
Lia Riley knows how to make sparks fly. I love how well her main characters connect. She always manages to describe their feelings on many different levels and that makes it possible for the readers to really get to know her main characters. I love how each moment of passion truly means something. She combines these deep moments with adorable quirks and this results in wonderful romance. I absolutely loved Head Coach, it’s sporty, fun and entertaining.
November 26, 2017
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
I loved this book. The dynamic between Tor and Neve is well written.
Both Tor and Neve have insecurities and they each deal with those by immersing themselves in their jobs, almost exclusively. In their professions, they are unstoppable, but off the ice and off the record, each hide awkwardness by being alone.
As they get to know each other outside of prying eyes, both Neve and Tor realize that this relationship is something worth fighting for.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
I loved this book. The dynamic between Tor and Neve is well written.
Both Tor and Neve have insecurities and they each deal with those by immersing themselves in their jobs, almost exclusively. In their professions, they are unstoppable, but off the ice and off the record, each hide awkwardness by being alone.
As they get to know each other outside of prying eyes, both Neve and Tor realize that this relationship is something worth fighting for.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
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