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Portland Icehawks #3
Roughing
I'm the star defensemen for the Portland Icehawks and the guy everyone loves to hate. Not that I don’t deserve their hatred. After all, how can you like a guy who doesn't even like himself?
Michella is the one woman I can't let go, yet I can't be with her either. We're like a drug to each other, and addictions aren't a good thing. I've messed up a relationship before and destroyed the one person I loved. I can't do the same to Michella. I'm ready to walk away one final time when a child of the street in need of rescuing forces us back together.
To make matters worse, Michella's new job with a private investigative agency puts her in the crosshairs of Portland's elusive serial killer. I have to protect her and this child, even if staying causes more destruction than leaving.
Michella is the one woman I can't let go, yet I can't be with her either. We're like a drug to each other, and addictions aren't a good thing. I've messed up a relationship before and destroyed the one person I loved. I can't do the same to Michella. I'm ready to walk away one final time when a child of the street in need of rescuing forces us back together.
To make matters worse, Michella's new job with a private investigative agency puts her in the crosshairs of Portland's elusive serial killer. I have to protect her and this child, even if staying causes more destruction than leaving.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 29, 2023
56 people are currently reading
133 people want to read
About the author
Jami Davenport
99 books1,171 followersSubscribe to my newsletter to receive a free novel and be notified of new releases, special sales, and contests: https://geni.us/JamiDavenportNews
USA Today bestselling author Jami Davenport writes sexy contemporary, new adult, and sports romances, including Gone Missing, Seattle Sockeyes, and The Scoring Series.
Jami lives on a small farm near Puget Sound with her Army Ranger-turned-plumber husband, a Newfoundland drool monster, and a prince disguised as an orange tabby cat.
Jami worked in IT for years and is also a former high school business teacher but recently achieved a life-long dream of being a full-time author. A horse lover since birth, Jami showed dressage horses for over thirty years. Now she gardens and goes glamping, along with other travelling adventures. She's a lifetime Seahawks and Mariners fan, and has season tickets to the Seattle Kraken hockey team. She still misses her SuperSonics.
An avid boater, Jami has spent countless hours in the San Juan Islands, a common setting in her books. In her opinion, it's the most beautiful place on earth.
USA Today bestselling author Jami Davenport writes sexy contemporary, new adult, and sports romances, including Gone Missing, Seattle Sockeyes, and The Scoring Series.
Jami lives on a small farm near Puget Sound with her Army Ranger-turned-plumber husband, a Newfoundland drool monster, and a prince disguised as an orange tabby cat.
Jami worked in IT for years and is also a former high school business teacher but recently achieved a life-long dream of being a full-time author. A horse lover since birth, Jami showed dressage horses for over thirty years. Now she gardens and goes glamping, along with other travelling adventures. She's a lifetime Seahawks and Mariners fan, and has season tickets to the Seattle Kraken hockey team. She still misses her SuperSonics.
An avid boater, Jami has spent countless hours in the San Juan Islands, a common setting in her books. In her opinion, it's the most beautiful place on earth.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
July 13, 2023
Roughing was the third book in the Portland Icehawks series by Jami Davenport. Although not completely necessary, I enjoyed the series in order.
We met Riggs and Michella in previous books. Riggs was angry because he was left unprotected by his old NHL team and selected by the expansion team the Portland Icehawks. They have a losing record and although Riggs play was exceptional, his negative attitude was toxic to all. Michella was also a bit of a mystery. She had a stalker ex, seemed to gravitate towards the bad boy vibe, and was determined to be independent and make better decisions. The two were drawn to each other, but yet also apart. And although I didn’t completely understand Michella’s hesitations, I enjoyed both characters.
Davenport took us through the baggage for each, revealing the layers and the cause for each layer throughout the storyline. Davenport also included a suspenseful plot that began in previous books surrounding a serial killer. I enjoyed both aspects of the storyline. I wanted just a bit more surrounding the antagonist of the suspenseful plot, otherwise, I thoroughly enjoyed Roughing and can’t wait for Trent in Interfering.
We met Riggs and Michella in previous books. Riggs was angry because he was left unprotected by his old NHL team and selected by the expansion team the Portland Icehawks. They have a losing record and although Riggs play was exceptional, his negative attitude was toxic to all. Michella was also a bit of a mystery. She had a stalker ex, seemed to gravitate towards the bad boy vibe, and was determined to be independent and make better decisions. The two were drawn to each other, but yet also apart. And although I didn’t completely understand Michella’s hesitations, I enjoyed both characters.
Davenport took us through the baggage for each, revealing the layers and the cause for each layer throughout the storyline. Davenport also included a suspenseful plot that began in previous books surrounding a serial killer. I enjoyed both aspects of the storyline. I wanted just a bit more surrounding the antagonist of the suspenseful plot, otherwise, I thoroughly enjoyed Roughing and can’t wait for Trent in Interfering.
June 25, 2023
4.5 Roughing Stars🌟
Roughing is Briggs’s story and I will admit he hasn’t been one of my favourite characters AT ALL but I was intrigued to find out why he was the person he was now and let’s just say I was shocked😳 Michella has just come out of a controlling and abusive relationship and doesn’t want to get involved with any one, but that doesn’t stop her from hooking up with Briggs. Briggs shows, on occasion, a different side to himself and drops everything when she calls him for help❤️🩹
The serial killer who is stalking women is finally revealed in this one…and I’m happy to see my detective cap was on and my suspicions from the previous book proved correct🙃 I’m excited for Trent’s story next and if he can manage to persuade the lady he likes to go out with him🤔
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my honest review❤️
Roughing is Briggs’s story and I will admit he hasn’t been one of my favourite characters AT ALL but I was intrigued to find out why he was the person he was now and let’s just say I was shocked😳 Michella has just come out of a controlling and abusive relationship and doesn’t want to get involved with any one, but that doesn’t stop her from hooking up with Briggs. Briggs shows, on occasion, a different side to himself and drops everything when she calls him for help❤️🩹
The serial killer who is stalking women is finally revealed in this one…and I’m happy to see my detective cap was on and my suspicions from the previous book proved correct🙃 I’m excited for Trent’s story next and if he can manage to persuade the lady he likes to go out with him🤔
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my honest review❤️
July 1, 2023
One of my favorites, Jami!
July 16, 2023
There's a lot going on in this tale of sports, suspense, and second chances as the bad boy of hockey tries to find a place in his new world...a world he wants no part of and has let everyone know it. Add in a strong-willed female who pushes the bad boy's boundaries, a female whose job puts her in grave danger, and readers will find themselves frantically turning the pages to see what happens next.
Since being traded to an expansion team in the recent hockey draft Briggs has been the character you love to hate. He's not at all happy to be added to the roster of this young, losing, team and doesn't hesitate in letting everyone know it which makes him rather insufferable. If he EVER wants to get back on the ice though he'll need to start making amends...starting with the one he let get away, Michella. Until this book I found Briggs to be a somewhat one dimensional character when it came to his grumpiness as he went out of his way to be unlikable. With each turn of the page though Briggs started digging his way out of the hole he dug for himself. Readers get insight into why he's the way he is, seeing a softer and more caring side, while watching him earn his way back into Michella's (and his teammate's) life. Michella and Briggs once had a relationship based on one night stands, but after deciding she needed more she walked away. She recently found herself at a crossroads though, after ending an abusive relationship, and it's now led her to the perfect career and working for a PI. Michella's a great heroine, one who knows her own self-worth, and she isn't afraid of demanding what she wants. She's recently become involved in the hunt for a serial killer, one which has her needing Briggs more than ever, in a burgeoning romance full of suspense and sexual tension.
This is a fast-paced read, one that nicely balances heart pounding suspense with a second chance at romance for two people trying to find themselves. The romance was satisfying while the mystery surrounding the serial killer kept me guessing until the end in a storyline cleverly woven throughout this story. Along with an appealing heroine, I also enjoyed the glimpses of Briggs' teammates as they started rallying around him when he needed support the most. Courtesy of a compelling ending I'm left excited for the future of this series, excited to see more of Trent and Remi especially, in a series that continues to entertain.
Since being traded to an expansion team in the recent hockey draft Briggs has been the character you love to hate. He's not at all happy to be added to the roster of this young, losing, team and doesn't hesitate in letting everyone know it which makes him rather insufferable. If he EVER wants to get back on the ice though he'll need to start making amends...starting with the one he let get away, Michella. Until this book I found Briggs to be a somewhat one dimensional character when it came to his grumpiness as he went out of his way to be unlikable. With each turn of the page though Briggs started digging his way out of the hole he dug for himself. Readers get insight into why he's the way he is, seeing a softer and more caring side, while watching him earn his way back into Michella's (and his teammate's) life. Michella and Briggs once had a relationship based on one night stands, but after deciding she needed more she walked away. She recently found herself at a crossroads though, after ending an abusive relationship, and it's now led her to the perfect career and working for a PI. Michella's a great heroine, one who knows her own self-worth, and she isn't afraid of demanding what she wants. She's recently become involved in the hunt for a serial killer, one which has her needing Briggs more than ever, in a burgeoning romance full of suspense and sexual tension.
This is a fast-paced read, one that nicely balances heart pounding suspense with a second chance at romance for two people trying to find themselves. The romance was satisfying while the mystery surrounding the serial killer kept me guessing until the end in a storyline cleverly woven throughout this story. Along with an appealing heroine, I also enjoyed the glimpses of Briggs' teammates as they started rallying around him when he needed support the most. Courtesy of a compelling ending I'm left excited for the future of this series, excited to see more of Trent and Remi especially, in a series that continues to entertain.
June 27, 2023
Roughing is the third book in the Portland Icehawks series and I have to say, Briggs hasn't been one of those characters that I've been intrigued about given his attitude in previous books. I will say I'm glad we got his story to see what was really under that tough veneer and in my opinion, this is one of Jami Davenport's best books.
Briggs is a defenseman in the NHL and he was sent to the Portland Icehawks in the expansion draft and he was none too happy about it. The team is not doing well and his attitude matches their record. He's gotten himself in trouble and now he's just trying to get back on the ice and figure out how to deal with his teammates since none of them want to be around him with his surly attitude either.
Michella has just gotten out of a controlling relationship and while she and Briggs had found solace in one another by way of hooking up, that's all it was, but she's decided that even that needs to come to an end. She is trying to find her place and what she wants to do with the rest of her life, so she starts a new job at a PI office as an admin, but it's not in the greatest part of town.
With a serial killer running loose and Michella's PI office working part of the investigation, she is put in the position where she needs to call for help and Briggs is who she reaches out to. Even though Michella is trying to keep Briggs at arms length, is she going to be able to? There is clearly so much between them and when they try to be friends, will that be possible?
I truly didn't want to put this down once I started reading. I flowed well, there were surprises that popped up along the way and I liked the way the rest of the team was weaved into the story as well. As I said above, in my opinion, this is one of Davenport's best works.
**I read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
Briggs is a defenseman in the NHL and he was sent to the Portland Icehawks in the expansion draft and he was none too happy about it. The team is not doing well and his attitude matches their record. He's gotten himself in trouble and now he's just trying to get back on the ice and figure out how to deal with his teammates since none of them want to be around him with his surly attitude either.
Michella has just gotten out of a controlling relationship and while she and Briggs had found solace in one another by way of hooking up, that's all it was, but she's decided that even that needs to come to an end. She is trying to find her place and what she wants to do with the rest of her life, so she starts a new job at a PI office as an admin, but it's not in the greatest part of town.
With a serial killer running loose and Michella's PI office working part of the investigation, she is put in the position where she needs to call for help and Briggs is who she reaches out to. Even though Michella is trying to keep Briggs at arms length, is she going to be able to? There is clearly so much between them and when they try to be friends, will that be possible?
I truly didn't want to put this down once I started reading. I flowed well, there were surprises that popped up along the way and I liked the way the rest of the team was weaved into the story as well. As I said above, in my opinion, this is one of Davenport's best works.
**I read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
June 24, 2023
Hockey, steam, groveling, and suspense… yes, please. “Roughing” is a steamy, suspenseful and wonderful addition to the Portland Icehawks series and I loved Briggs and Michella’s story.
Briggs is a defenseman in the NHL and was one of the players traded in the expansion draft. To say he’s unhappy with it, is an understatement. He’s the player to hate that includes his ex, Michella, who is also in Portland. After leaving a controlling relationship, Michella is working as an admin for P.I. But working with the P.I. means she could be in danger with the serial killer that’s on the loose in Portland. Briggs messed up their relationship before but is determined to protect her and win her back.
I loved this added suspense of the serial killer that had been lurking and going after unsuspecting women in the area. It was a real page turner for me and I was so invested to find out who it was and why they were doing it. It was a plot twist I didn’t see coming and it was so good. Briggs is a grumpy guy but such a softie in the middle. I felt his frustrations on why he wasn’t happy about being traded but he turned around once he figured out it was an exciting opportunity. Michella is a certified baddie and an instant favorite for me. She’s smart, caring and made Briggs work for her forgiveness. They were so great together and I’m glad they got their second chance. The little sneak peak we get for the next book has me counting down the days until it’s released.
Briggs is a defenseman in the NHL and was one of the players traded in the expansion draft. To say he’s unhappy with it, is an understatement. He’s the player to hate that includes his ex, Michella, who is also in Portland. After leaving a controlling relationship, Michella is working as an admin for P.I. But working with the P.I. means she could be in danger with the serial killer that’s on the loose in Portland. Briggs messed up their relationship before but is determined to protect her and win her back.
I loved this added suspense of the serial killer that had been lurking and going after unsuspecting women in the area. It was a real page turner for me and I was so invested to find out who it was and why they were doing it. It was a plot twist I didn’t see coming and it was so good. Briggs is a grumpy guy but such a softie in the middle. I felt his frustrations on why he wasn’t happy about being traded but he turned around once he figured out it was an exciting opportunity. Michella is a certified baddie and an instant favorite for me. She’s smart, caring and made Briggs work for her forgiveness. They were so great together and I’m glad they got their second chance. The little sneak peak we get for the next book has me counting down the days until it’s released.
June 27, 2023
Roughing, book three in the Portland Icehawks series is a perfect balance of a hockey romance mixed with detective work to find a serial killer.
Briggs, a defenseman with Portland Icehawks has been a bit of a grump with a shitty attitude since he was picked up by Portland in the expansion draft. He is at a crossroads right now in his career since he thought he wanted to be traded from this losing team but he is having second thoughts and working on his attitude and Michella definitely has a part in his decision.
Michella has bounced around from job to job but seems to take to her new one quite naturally since she has a personal reason for this job becoming her passion. She is also recently out of a relationship with an abusive boyfriend who may be stalking her.
Briggs and Michella have an explosive physical relationship but that is all it is until they find themselves spending more time together while helping to find a serial killer and that time together is the catalyst for their relationship to move to the next level.
I really enjoyed watching their relationship evolve as they opened up to one another and actually helping the other fix some of the problems they have had to face in their lives.
Briggs, a defenseman with Portland Icehawks has been a bit of a grump with a shitty attitude since he was picked up by Portland in the expansion draft. He is at a crossroads right now in his career since he thought he wanted to be traded from this losing team but he is having second thoughts and working on his attitude and Michella definitely has a part in his decision.
Michella has bounced around from job to job but seems to take to her new one quite naturally since she has a personal reason for this job becoming her passion. She is also recently out of a relationship with an abusive boyfriend who may be stalking her.
Briggs and Michella have an explosive physical relationship but that is all it is until they find themselves spending more time together while helping to find a serial killer and that time together is the catalyst for their relationship to move to the next level.
I really enjoyed watching their relationship evolve as they opened up to one another and actually helping the other fix some of the problems they have had to face in their lives.
June 25, 2023
I couldn't wait to read Briggs and Michella's story and I was definitely not disappointed.
Michella and Briggs have a long standing one night stand type of relationship going. Neither wants anything more, or so they say. Briggs is doing all he can to get traded, he doesn't interact with teammates, doesn't act like a team player, and he is grumpy with everyone. Michella knows something is hurting him but he won't talk to her.
Michella has a rocky relationship with her family. When she decides she wants to work towards her PI license her family isn't really for it. When she gets a job with Gone Missing, she is thrilled but as she helps Carla work cases she gets in deeper and deeper. Briggs isn't too happy about it but he does help her out.
The more time they spend together the stronger feelings become for both of them. However, when Michella finds out Briggs is keeping a secret from her, will she walk away?
We get a glimpse of some other players and characters. Looking forward to reading Trent and Heidi's story and hopefully we see more Remi
Michella and Briggs have a long standing one night stand type of relationship going. Neither wants anything more, or so they say. Briggs is doing all he can to get traded, he doesn't interact with teammates, doesn't act like a team player, and he is grumpy with everyone. Michella knows something is hurting him but he won't talk to her.
Michella has a rocky relationship with her family. When she decides she wants to work towards her PI license her family isn't really for it. When she gets a job with Gone Missing, she is thrilled but as she helps Carla work cases she gets in deeper and deeper. Briggs isn't too happy about it but he does help her out.
The more time they spend together the stronger feelings become for both of them. However, when Michella finds out Briggs is keeping a secret from her, will she walk away?
We get a glimpse of some other players and characters. Looking forward to reading Trent and Heidi's story and hopefully we see more Remi
June 26, 2023
Briggs is a defenseman traded to the Portland Icehawks and did not want to be there. His attitude was terrible and he had a short fuse, but did anyone really try to find out why? He was lucky that he had two people in his corner—his coach and Michella. I felt bad for Michella as she did not have confidence in herself because of bad choices in men, and now it was hard to trust anyone. Briggs and Michella had an explosive connection, even though he could be a grouch at times. Michella goes to work for a PI company in a bad part of town which would scare me half to death. Plus her ex had been stalking her. There had been women gone missing and it finally came out there was a serial killer on the loose who chose women in bars around the hockey arena. The story gets really exciting when more women go missing and Michella was helping her boss to look at suspects. I loved the book and strongly encourage you to read it. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
June 28, 2023
Another hit right here, hockey with some mystery on the side! Jami did an amazing job with this story, and Briggs will steal your heart, and Michella, well she's just a woman that keeps Briggs on his toes! 5 stars for this one!
Michella just started a new job, in a not so great part of town, and with her stalker still causing her grief, she starts to rely on Briggs to be there for her. But she has cut him off so to speak, he won't open up to her, and she needs more than just nightly trysts with this hockey bad boy!
Briggs vows to always be there for Michella, even if she doesn't want him to be. He wasn't there for his sister when she needed him and he feels responsible, so he will not let anything happen to her. When she wants him to open up more, can he do that?
I enjoyed this story so much, Jami did a great job adding mystery in to this hockey story! Grab this one asap!
Michella just started a new job, in a not so great part of town, and with her stalker still causing her grief, she starts to rely on Briggs to be there for her. But she has cut him off so to speak, he won't open up to her, and she needs more than just nightly trysts with this hockey bad boy!
Briggs vows to always be there for Michella, even if she doesn't want him to be. He wasn't there for his sister when she needed him and he feels responsible, so he will not let anything happen to her. When she wants him to open up more, can he do that?
I enjoyed this story so much, Jami did a great job adding mystery in to this hockey story! Grab this one asap!
June 25, 2023
I couldn't finish it fast enough!
While it helped to have read the previous two books in the Portland Icehawks series to completely understand the back story, enough is given to thoroughly enjoy Roughing. Jami writes a captivating end to an on going mystery in Portland while she's able to show exactly how couples can balance each other out.
MIchella knows just what she wants based on her previous bad decisions. After various failed tries at finding an occupation that appeals to her, she jumps into being an assistant to a PI and plays a big part in finding the Rose City Killer...with Briggs by her side.
Briggs only knows what he thinks he deserves. When his spot on the Icehawks pro hockey team is in jeopardy, he knows he has to change. Tough as it is, with Michella's help, his attitude change changes the entire team.
While it helped to have read the previous two books in the Portland Icehawks series to completely understand the back story, enough is given to thoroughly enjoy Roughing. Jami writes a captivating end to an on going mystery in Portland while she's able to show exactly how couples can balance each other out.
MIchella knows just what she wants based on her previous bad decisions. After various failed tries at finding an occupation that appeals to her, she jumps into being an assistant to a PI and plays a big part in finding the Rose City Killer...with Briggs by her side.
Briggs only knows what he thinks he deserves. When his spot on the Icehawks pro hockey team is in jeopardy, he knows he has to change. Tough as it is, with Michella's help, his attitude change changes the entire team.
June 26, 2023
Briggs and Michelle have a perfect hook up
situation, until they don’t. Briggs is moody and grumpy and Michella and his team are both sick of it! Briggs team mates make a huge effort to understand. Michella gets a job in a terrible part of town. Not good when you already have a stalker. Michella feels comfortable calling Briggs for help one evening and that is when their relationship begins to change. In time, with effort. Cute addition to the series!
situation, until they don’t. Briggs is moody and grumpy and Michella and his team are both sick of it! Briggs team mates make a huge effort to understand. Michella gets a job in a terrible part of town. Not good when you already have a stalker. Michella feels comfortable calling Briggs for help one evening and that is when their relationship begins to change. In time, with effort. Cute addition to the series!
June 28, 2023
I thought this was a cute read. I loved Briggs even when he was grumpy and angry. It took a little bit longer to warm up to Michella though. Some of her decisions throw me for a loop and made me want to shake her. There were some plot holes that were left open so I hope they get tied up in the next books.
June 27, 2023
Hockey player, solving a mystery, self-confidence, emotional with HOT spice!
This is not the first book in the series, but it can be read as a complete stand alone. You will just know more about the secondary characters, but everything you need to know will be given to you.
This is not the first book in the series, but it can be read as a complete stand alone. You will just know more about the secondary characters, but everything you need to know will be given to you.
June 24, 2023
I liked this book. Briggs and Michella's story is an engaging blend of emotions, suspense, drama and heart. The chemistry was undeniable and the history between this couple makes this read pack a powerful emotional punch. I am posting a volitional, objective review.
July 14, 2023
Briggs and the Icehawk series. Jami Davenport has a unique way with presenting her characters and bringing them to life. I have read several of her books. This particular one was a winner. It brought suspense, drama, nail biting what’s gonna happen next into play and of course love into the story. Briggs book was one I was waiting for. No spoilers though. I was curious how this author was going to portray him with love due to his personality type. She nailed it with finding him the perfect mate!
July 10, 2023
I love the series so far. We get to have Briggs and Michella’s story. He is not happy that he was been selected to the new expansion team in Portland. He’s bitter his old team did not protect him. He is making it rough on his teammates by being very grumpy and sarcastic and has no friends on the new team. Michella has just accepted a new job as an assistant to a new PI agency Gone Missing. She also had an abusive ex so she is trying not to have a relationship with the grumpy Briggs. They find themselves together in solving the mystery of the Rose City serial killer and many questions have been answered.
June 30, 2023
Briggs is one of the best defensemen in the league, but his attitude on and off the ice has made him a cancer in the locker room. Briggs is coming off a 2 week suspension and has some decisions to make about his hockey future. He can change his attitude and get back to being the top player he was before his attitude change, or he can continue with the attitude and ride the bench as a healthy scratch for the rest of the season. Michella is making a career change by getting hired by Gone Missing Detective Agency that could put her in the crosshairs of the Portland serial killer. Briggs and Michella have burned up the sheets together, but Michella doesn't want another controlling man trying to control her. Briggs vows to protect Michella from her stalker ex. Will Briggs new outlook and attitude have Michella thinking twice about a possible relationship with him? How will Michella react when she learns the secret Briggs is keeping from her? Can Michella forgive Briggs for his controlling ways? Can Briggs convince Michella to take a chance on him? I loved Roughing by Jami Davenport. Briggs and Michella are a great couple with explosive chemistry. Roughing has danger, romance, secrets, a stalker ex, and a surprise plot twist. I would highly recommend getting Roughing and the other books in the Portland Icehawks series by Jami Davenport. I received an ARC copy of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
June 30, 2023
I have been waiting for Briggs’s book for so long. Not only has he screwed up his own life. He’s also taking a whack and a couple of the earlier players on the Icehawks team. So you knew eventually we were going to learn a little more about him.
Briggs is literally skating on thin ice with the Icehawks. He has plucked their last nerve, and they’re ready to give him the heave ho. Luckily, for him one of the coaches goes to bat for him, and he gets one last chance.
Michella is the object of Briggs‘s desire. She wants to become a private eye and takes a job as an apprentice add an agency run by a tough lady detective named Carla. Michella is hoping to be able to help find a potential serial killer that she suspects could be her old boyfriend.
I really enjoyed this book, because both characters are looking to change their lives, one kicking and screaming the whole way, and the other, looking for a new path in her life that she’s pretty sure, won’t include him They both provide what’s needed to fill in the holes for each other but they are not sure they can be that one for each other.
I love a good redemption story, and this one was really good! There’s something about that damaged hero, and a spunky heroine that really gets to me. I’ve enjoyed all of Jamie Davenport’s books and I look forward to the next one in the series.
Briggs is literally skating on thin ice with the Icehawks. He has plucked their last nerve, and they’re ready to give him the heave ho. Luckily, for him one of the coaches goes to bat for him, and he gets one last chance.
Michella is the object of Briggs‘s desire. She wants to become a private eye and takes a job as an apprentice add an agency run by a tough lady detective named Carla. Michella is hoping to be able to help find a potential serial killer that she suspects could be her old boyfriend.
I really enjoyed this book, because both characters are looking to change their lives, one kicking and screaming the whole way, and the other, looking for a new path in her life that she’s pretty sure, won’t include him They both provide what’s needed to fill in the holes for each other but they are not sure they can be that one for each other.
I love a good redemption story, and this one was really good! There’s something about that damaged hero, and a spunky heroine that really gets to me. I’ve enjoyed all of Jamie Davenport’s books and I look forward to the next one in the series.
June 30, 2023
Roughing is the third book in the Portland Icehawks series. It finally tells the story about Briggs, a defensemen who is causing all kinds of chaos and negativity in the newly formed expansion team. While Briggs is a great player, something in his past caused him to become a complete jerk to everyone. Everyone except Michella, who is like an accelerant thrown on a flame, the heat between them burns hot and fast, but as soon as it burns off, it's out.
The back and forward between Michella and Briggs was fantastic. I was glad to see that Briggs finally started to open up to her, albeit slowly.
This was a great book and I look forward to the next books in the series. Jami Davenport is always a sure bet for me.
5 out of 5 stars.
I received a free ARC from the author and 1852 Media; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
The back and forward between Michella and Briggs was fantastic. I was glad to see that Briggs finally started to open up to her, albeit slowly.
This was a great book and I look forward to the next books in the series. Jami Davenport is always a sure bet for me.
5 out of 5 stars.
I received a free ARC from the author and 1852 Media; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
July 3, 2023
Stubborn love
I really never expected to like Briggs, but the grumpy disruptor really surprised me in his story! Michelle really brings out a new side of Briggs that I found myself loving! Now to see if these two stubborn souls will get out of their own way to last, or if Briggs's disrupting ways will get him booted from Portland! All this is circling around trying to figure out why women are disappearing from places the hockey team frequent!
I really never expected to like Briggs, but the grumpy disruptor really surprised me in his story! Michelle really brings out a new side of Briggs that I found myself loving! Now to see if these two stubborn souls will get out of their own way to last, or if Briggs's disrupting ways will get him booted from Portland! All this is circling around trying to figure out why women are disappearing from places the hockey team frequent!
June 26, 2023
Briggs had been a star defenseman in the NHL but that changed suddenly to become a bitter man, so when his team gave up on him the Portland Icehawks quickly picked him up in the expansion draft. They hoped he could work through his anger and bitterness to help pull the team together. So far it wasn’t working he became more angry and resentful. Which actually led him to be suspended for multiple games because of action he took in a special event over the one person who could possibly break down that barrier he had up….Michella. While she only wanted friends with benefits after going through a bitter relationship with an abusive ex, he in a way wanted more. He would do anything to protect her, absolutely anything.
Michella had flited from one job to another over the years never finding anything she liked, but she had her family’s coffee business as a backup job. So when they sold it, she needed to budget and find something new to do. She never imagined it would be with Gone Fishing Private Investigation services new office in Portland as an assistant. But her love for digging up dirt on people, wanting to help people get answers, a true crime junkie and the fact that a loved one once went missing made her perfect the job. The office wasn’t in the safest location and she had this idea in her head that her ex Gordon could be the man terrorizing and murdering women in Portland. Michella also didn’t want a solid relationship, she wanted friends with benefits and she thought she had found that with Briggs. She just didn’t imagine that it might become more than that or the reason why he was so set on keeping everyone out of his life.
This book has romance, mystery and quite a few surprises. Just when you think you might have figured it out, Jami Davenport throws another one at you. Let’s just say that this is one book to definitely add to your summer reading pile. When done you can’t wait to see where this series will end up going next….
Michella had flited from one job to another over the years never finding anything she liked, but she had her family’s coffee business as a backup job. So when they sold it, she needed to budget and find something new to do. She never imagined it would be with Gone Fishing Private Investigation services new office in Portland as an assistant. But her love for digging up dirt on people, wanting to help people get answers, a true crime junkie and the fact that a loved one once went missing made her perfect the job. The office wasn’t in the safest location and she had this idea in her head that her ex Gordon could be the man terrorizing and murdering women in Portland. Michella also didn’t want a solid relationship, she wanted friends with benefits and she thought she had found that with Briggs. She just didn’t imagine that it might become more than that or the reason why he was so set on keeping everyone out of his life.
This book has romance, mystery and quite a few surprises. Just when you think you might have figured it out, Jami Davenport throws another one at you. Let’s just say that this is one book to definitely add to your summer reading pile. When done you can’t wait to see where this series will end up going next….
June 29, 2023
I love the Portland Icehawks series and couldn't wait to read about Briggs and what happened to make him so miserable and hated on the team.
Briggs was picked up in the expansion draft by the new Portland Icehawks. Briggs is one of the best defensive players in the league but for some reason his team didn't protect him and the expansion team did but to Briggs' dismay. He's made it very clear that he doesn't want to be here and wants to be traded as fast as possible. Unfortunately, Briggs' bad attitude makes him a liability and no team wants him. To make matters worse, he got suspended from his current team, if he can't turn it around, he'll be sitting on the bench and then no longer playing hockey.
Michella is Briggs' achilles heel. Briggs and Michella have hooked up numerous times and it's a purely physical relationship. Michella is struggling to figure out what she wants to do with her life and has decided to become a PI. But before she can do that, she gets a job working for a PI firm doing whatever's needed so she can prove herself. Unfortunately, it's located in a really bad area and she has an ex - stalking her.
Briggs and Michella hook up but she realizes she wants something more but Briggs is emotionally unavailable and can't give her what she needs. When his suspension is over, he realizes that he really wants to play hockey and he's willing to make an effort to not get kicked off the team.
This book takes you on a wonderful emotional rollercoaster ride. You get to see what happened to Briggs to make him so closed off. You just need to wonder, can he overcome it to get the woman. A wonderful addition to this series!
Briggs was picked up in the expansion draft by the new Portland Icehawks. Briggs is one of the best defensive players in the league but for some reason his team didn't protect him and the expansion team did but to Briggs' dismay. He's made it very clear that he doesn't want to be here and wants to be traded as fast as possible. Unfortunately, Briggs' bad attitude makes him a liability and no team wants him. To make matters worse, he got suspended from his current team, if he can't turn it around, he'll be sitting on the bench and then no longer playing hockey.
Michella is Briggs' achilles heel. Briggs and Michella have hooked up numerous times and it's a purely physical relationship. Michella is struggling to figure out what she wants to do with her life and has decided to become a PI. But before she can do that, she gets a job working for a PI firm doing whatever's needed so she can prove herself. Unfortunately, it's located in a really bad area and she has an ex - stalking her.
Briggs and Michella hook up but she realizes she wants something more but Briggs is emotionally unavailable and can't give her what she needs. When his suspension is over, he realizes that he really wants to play hockey and he's willing to make an effort to not get kicked off the team.
This book takes you on a wonderful emotional rollercoaster ride. You get to see what happened to Briggs to make him so closed off. You just need to wonder, can he overcome it to get the woman. A wonderful addition to this series!
June 30, 2023
Another great book by this author. Briggs and Michella are perfect for each other, but she is hesitant to be with him because of her previous relationship. He is grumpy and closed off, with good reason, but he can’t seem to find his way to the other side. When she ends what relationship they had, and his hockey career on the line, he starts to take a hard look at his life.
While she is trying to impress her new boss, she calls on Briggs to help her, after cutting him from her life, and they decide to try to be friends. The added story of the serial killer and her researching who it could be, adds a little jolt to the book. As they grow closer on an intellectual level, she lets him know what she need in order to try a relationship with him.
I liked how their relationship evolved and how he did a lot of maturing. Seeing his growth made me fall for him hard. There were times that I didn’t care for her, but the goods parts outweighed the bad. I wish we could have found out more about Gordon and what he was up to. The serial killer was someone I suspected, but I am not sure he was in it alone.
This series has been great so far and I can’t wait for Trent and Heidi’s story. I highly recommend this book and the series. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
While she is trying to impress her new boss, she calls on Briggs to help her, after cutting him from her life, and they decide to try to be friends. The added story of the serial killer and her researching who it could be, adds a little jolt to the book. As they grow closer on an intellectual level, she lets him know what she need in order to try a relationship with him.
I liked how their relationship evolved and how he did a lot of maturing. Seeing his growth made me fall for him hard. There were times that I didn’t care for her, but the goods parts outweighed the bad. I wish we could have found out more about Gordon and what he was up to. The serial killer was someone I suspected, but I am not sure he was in it alone.
This series has been great so far and I can’t wait for Trent and Heidi’s story. I highly recommend this book and the series. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
June 27, 2023
4 Star Review of Roughing (Portland Icehawks #3) by Jami Davenport
Roughing is book three in Jami Davenport’s latest Portland Icehawks series and was a good addition to the series. What elevated this book for me was the suspense element of the story line.
This is Briggs and Michella’s story and the addition of a serial killer stalking women in the area added an element that had me riveted. I was surprised at the number of twists and turns throughout this book and there were times I was on the edge of my seat whilst reading.
Briggs is a broody, often surly man but underneath is a man who has been hurt and one who to protect himself would rather shut everyone out of his life. Michaella is the one woman who can get thorough to him, if he will let her. She is stubborn, determined and has thrown herself into her latest job as an assistant in a PI firm.
Her new job could also have put her in the cross hairs of a seral killer who is determined to do his worst. Will Briggs and Michaella break down the walls surrounding their hearts, communicate and find a lasting love?
Roughing is a story of compromises, of courage, of love and hope and of overcoming challenges that fate puts in your way. It was well written and ticked a number of boxes for me.
Roughing is book three in Jami Davenport’s latest Portland Icehawks series and was a good addition to the series. What elevated this book for me was the suspense element of the story line.
This is Briggs and Michella’s story and the addition of a serial killer stalking women in the area added an element that had me riveted. I was surprised at the number of twists and turns throughout this book and there were times I was on the edge of my seat whilst reading.
Briggs is a broody, often surly man but underneath is a man who has been hurt and one who to protect himself would rather shut everyone out of his life. Michaella is the one woman who can get thorough to him, if he will let her. She is stubborn, determined and has thrown herself into her latest job as an assistant in a PI firm.
Her new job could also have put her in the cross hairs of a seral killer who is determined to do his worst. Will Briggs and Michaella break down the walls surrounding their hearts, communicate and find a lasting love?
Roughing is a story of compromises, of courage, of love and hope and of overcoming challenges that fate puts in your way. It was well written and ticked a number of boxes for me.
June 28, 2023
4 1/2 STARS!
Sexy and addictive goodness! Jami Davenport is pouring on the angst with her Portland Icehawks series and I am loving it! Book three brings us broody Briggs' story and a deeper dive into the serial killer that has been tormenting the town. The characters are easy to like and I found myself rooting for them from the very start. There wasn't a huge amount of in depth development into their relationship, but the store as a whole was really enjoyable with drama, romance, angst and suspense all pulling at us throughout. I'm looking forward to more to come in the series!
Briggs has been trouble throughout the series, but we knew there was a story there from the very first time he stepped onto the page, so this book gets us there with all the delectable angst. I love him!
Michella has been coasting through life following one dream after another but she finally has her heart set on what she wants to do with herself ... and it just so happens it puts her right smack in the middle of a bullseye leading to the elusive serial killer. I enjoyed her.
I highly recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone that enjoys a hockey romance with close knit teammates each falling for their forever while some suspense swirls around the plot.
Sexy and addictive goodness! Jami Davenport is pouring on the angst with her Portland Icehawks series and I am loving it! Book three brings us broody Briggs' story and a deeper dive into the serial killer that has been tormenting the town. The characters are easy to like and I found myself rooting for them from the very start. There wasn't a huge amount of in depth development into their relationship, but the store as a whole was really enjoyable with drama, romance, angst and suspense all pulling at us throughout. I'm looking forward to more to come in the series!
Briggs has been trouble throughout the series, but we knew there was a story there from the very first time he stepped onto the page, so this book gets us there with all the delectable angst. I love him!
Michella has been coasting through life following one dream after another but she finally has her heart set on what she wants to do with herself ... and it just so happens it puts her right smack in the middle of a bullseye leading to the elusive serial killer. I enjoyed her.
I highly recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone that enjoys a hockey romance with close knit teammates each falling for their forever while some suspense swirls around the plot.
July 3, 2023
I love the gritty suspense of this series combined with sports romance. Michella and Briggs are a pair I wasn’t sure what to expect after all Briggs’ negativity and disruptive behavior in the prior books. I was shocked at the underlying pain and hurt he has been shouldering, and how endearing and engaging a more vulnerable Briggs would be.
Michella is determined to succeed in her PI Assistant job and she dives in to help solve the case of missing women. She is confident her ex is involved with the disappearance of several women, but she takes the advice of her new boss to follow the evidence and to keep an open mind.
I enjoyed the suspenseful revelation of the serial killer and Michella and Briggs’ involvement was pretty wild. Briggs really grew as a character in this book, and turned around his negative attitude. I’m excited to see what happens in the next book with Trent and Heidi.
I received a free ARC from the author and 1852 Media; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
Michella is determined to succeed in her PI Assistant job and she dives in to help solve the case of missing women. She is confident her ex is involved with the disappearance of several women, but she takes the advice of her new boss to follow the evidence and to keep an open mind.
I enjoyed the suspenseful revelation of the serial killer and Michella and Briggs’ involvement was pretty wild. Briggs really grew as a character in this book, and turned around his negative attitude. I’m excited to see what happens in the next book with Trent and Heidi.
I received a free ARC from the author and 1852 Media; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
June 27, 2023
Romance with a lot of suspense!
Briggs Pierce didn’t want to be in Portland playing for the Icehawks and made no bones about his displeasure until he was suspended from the team for two weeks. Now Briggs had to make some choices about playing hockey and his relationship with Michella Ross because they toxic together unless he figured out what he wanted for the future. Michella was still trying to figure what she wanted to do by working for a detective agency that specialized in missing people with a possible serial killer in Portland.
Roughing has some serious romantic suspense with the mystery of a possible serial killer in Portland while they are looking for a missing woman. Now you need to read Gone Missing (Gone Missing Detective Agency #1) again.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author and 1852 Media. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Briggs Pierce didn’t want to be in Portland playing for the Icehawks and made no bones about his displeasure until he was suspended from the team for two weeks. Now Briggs had to make some choices about playing hockey and his relationship with Michella Ross because they toxic together unless he figured out what he wanted for the future. Michella was still trying to figure what she wanted to do by working for a detective agency that specialized in missing people with a possible serial killer in Portland.
Roughing has some serious romantic suspense with the mystery of a possible serial killer in Portland while they are looking for a missing woman. Now you need to read Gone Missing (Gone Missing Detective Agency #1) again.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author and 1852 Media. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 29, 2023
Jami Davenport gets a hat trick with book three in the Portland Icehawks series, ROUGHING. This is defensemen, Briggs Pierce’s and Michella’s story.
Briggs is the disliked bad guy from the previous books, REBOUNDING and DEFENDING. We find out why he acts the way he does in this story. My heart broke for him. He wasn’t always a jerk. A tragedy turned him into the grumpy negative character we were introduced to.
Michella, whom we were also introduced to in the previous books, got a job with Gone Missing Detective Agency. It’s not in the best neighborhood, and it could potentially be a dangerous job. Briggs becomes very protective of Michella. Throw in her ex is stalking her and there is a serial killer on the loose. Let just say that there is never a dull moment.
ROUGHING is an excellent addition to the Portland Icehawks series. I am looking forward to Trent and Heidi’s story, INTERFERING. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
Briggs is the disliked bad guy from the previous books, REBOUNDING and DEFENDING. We find out why he acts the way he does in this story. My heart broke for him. He wasn’t always a jerk. A tragedy turned him into the grumpy negative character we were introduced to.
Michella, whom we were also introduced to in the previous books, got a job with Gone Missing Detective Agency. It’s not in the best neighborhood, and it could potentially be a dangerous job. Briggs becomes very protective of Michella. Throw in her ex is stalking her and there is a serial killer on the loose. Let just say that there is never a dull moment.
ROUGHING is an excellent addition to the Portland Icehawks series. I am looking forward to Trent and Heidi’s story, INTERFERING. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
July 3, 2023
If you like complex grumpy men who go out of their way not to be liked, sizzling chemistry and a serial killer on the loose, then look no further than the next book in this wonderful series.
Jami Davenport, you took Briggs, who I hadn't really liked as a secondary character in previous books and turned him into one of my favourite hockey players in the series, I love how this author gives us many sides to her leading men and women, and this was especially true with Briggs, once you peel back the layers and get the real man you are once again left in NHL hockey heaven, Micella just out of an abrasive relationship was happy with a friend with benefit's arrangement, but their connection was always going to become more, the suspense element had been woven through the first couple of books and at last the serial killer is unmasked, great build-up leaving me on the edge of my seat and as usual, I am looking forward to the next instalment.
Jami Davenport, you took Briggs, who I hadn't really liked as a secondary character in previous books and turned him into one of my favourite hockey players in the series, I love how this author gives us many sides to her leading men and women, and this was especially true with Briggs, once you peel back the layers and get the real man you are once again left in NHL hockey heaven, Micella just out of an abrasive relationship was happy with a friend with benefit's arrangement, but their connection was always going to become more, the suspense element had been woven through the first couple of books and at last the serial killer is unmasked, great build-up leaving me on the edge of my seat and as usual, I am looking forward to the next instalment.
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