| Title | : | Alex (Cold Fury Hockey, #1) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 0553393006 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9780553393002 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | ebook |
| Number of Pages | : | 293 |
| Publication | : | First published October 14, 2014 |
As a social worker, Sutton Price is accustomed to difficult people--like Alex, who's been assigned to help her create a drug-abuse awareness program for at-risk youth as part of the team's effort to clean up his image. What she doesn't expect is the arrogant smirk from his perfect lips to stir her most heated fantasies. But Sutton isn't one to cross professional boundaries--and besides, Alex doesn't do relationships... or does he? The more she sees behind Alex's bad-boy facade, the more Sutton craves the man she uncovers.
Alex (Cold Fury Hockey, #1) Reviews
-
★★★★! Alex, (stand-alone) book 1 of X. Ice hockey’s bad boy, Alex Crossman is ordered to fix his public image & quickly finds himself wooing fiery social worker Sutton!
“They want you to be a team spokesman for an anti-drug abuse campaign.”
Books in Cold Fury Hockey Series are stand-alones, but best enjoyed in order:
Book 1:
Alex
Book 2:
Garrett
Alex (stand-alone, book 1) follows bad boy and star ice hockey player for the Carolina Cold Fury, Alexander Crossman, Alex aka MVP. Closed off to the world, he has settled into a life of one-night stands, playing hockey and playing it well while the fans hate him. His attitude and public image is suffering and so team management orders him to become the team spokesman for an anti-drug abuse campaign.
Recent College graduate and drug counselor at Wake County Drug Crisis Center, Sutton Price has been assigned to implement the program with Alex. Alex’s reputation typically precedes him, but Sutton, however is not a hockey fan. At first, she cannot help but be in awe of his imposing presence and good looks. That is until Alex opens his mouth! Things go downhill from there…
Alex is set on sex and seduction and Sutton on trying to keep things professional. Besides Alex does not do relationships. Story, told from dual POVs goes onto follow them working together while the sparks fly. Along the way they discover that they both hide painful pasts and a friendship of sorts is formed as they both face their demons… and the many layers to Alex are peeled…
Eight words to describe Alexander Crossman, Alex: Despondent, angry, flawed, broken, conflicted, immature, caring and focused.
Eight words to describe Sutton Price: Sweet, unassuming, strong, smart, perceptive, nurturing, long-winded and fair.
Alex picked up around 40% and kept me glued to the end. Other than Sutter feeling a little too perfect at times I thoroughly enjoyed their journey and where it left them. Up next is ladies’ man, Garrett Samuelson’s story,
Garrett, whom we met quite a bit in this story.
Heartfelt journey! Flawed, broken and oh so sexy hero! Excellent story-telling! Uhm, did I mention hot hero, hehe…
***
Hero rating: 4 stars
Heroine rating: 3.5 stars
Sexual tension rating: 4 stars
Sex scenes rating: 4.5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 4 stars
Plot rating: 4 stars
Dialogue rating: 4.5 stars
Storytelling rating: 4.5 stars
Story ending rating: 4 stars
Book editing rating (5 = no edits spotted): N/A
************************************************
Overall rating: 4 stars
Would I recommend this story: Yes.
Would I re-read this story: Maybe later.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
ARC provided to me by Random House, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review. -
4 'MVP' stars!!!
I’ve been told many times I need to read Sawyer Bennett, that I would love her stuff. Finally, I did it. Read my first book by this author. I have to say- I really enjoyed it. I’m not a sports fan. Not even a little… but for some reason, I like books about hockey players. There is just something about them. Alex is one of those guys thats a straight up bastard- and you know those are my favorite kind!!!
Alex Crossman is good at hockey. No, he’s great at hockey. One of the best. The problem? He doesn’t give a shit about hockey. It’s just something he’s always been pressured to do his entire life. The pressure to be perfect makes him hate the game. His hockey team can tell he doesn’t care and coach is getting a lot of pressure for him to have a better attitude. Alex is mandated to help with a drug awareness program to give his image a makeover. That is where he meets Sutton.
Sutton Price is the opposite of Alex. She’s a drug counselor, and even though her job is difficult, she loves it. Sutton hasn’t had the perfect life either, but she did not let it define her like Alex. She rose above it and is a wonderful person and role model. When she meets Alex, sparks fly. They get along better than expected. Alex likes that Sutton calls him out when he does something stupid. He likes that she's passionate about her job, that she cares about her kids and her family. He likes everything about her. Thats never happened to him before. Hockey is his only focus. Women are just there on the side. Sutton is different, and he wants to explore it.
For the first time in his life, Alex is actually enjoying playing hockey, starting to care again. Sutton is the reason for that change.
"...I like Sutton Price. I like her a lot and for probably a million other reasons. I probably like her most for the fact that she is getting me to re-evaluate the way I look at things.”
It is so out of the norm for Alex, but he’s starting to care not only about hockey, but about Sutton too. The thing I love most about Sutton is that she doesn’t put Alex in this box of hockey player with an attitude. She shows him that he is the only person who can decide who he is. Not others.
“Don’t fall into the mold that people put you in. You are only what you want to be. If you want to be mean, be mean. If you want to be nice, be nice. But don’t do it because anyone expects it of you. Do it for yourself.”
Alex really cares for Sutton. Sutton is falling hard for Alex. Alex is conflicted. Things from his past that surface make him question if he can ever be in a relationship. He’s worried his demons will show and drive Sutton away. The last thing he wants to do is hurt her, but he can’t be away from her either.
Alex could be a jerk, but he could also be a really great guy. I loved seeing how much he grew in this story. He was a jerk in the beginning, but turned out to be really sweet and swoony by the end. Sutton was a fabulous heroine. She was kind, understanding and sweet. Almost seemed too perfect at times, but regardless- I really liked her. Another character I really loved was Garrett. I’m hoping he gets his own story down the line!
The ending was perfection. Hockey rink and cards- I loved it! Then the very end… the sweetest!
This was an easy read for the most part. There were some emotional moments, but it was a lot of sweet and sexy too.Getting both Alex and Sutton’s pov really helped with seeing Alex’s struggles and growth. I enjoyed this authors writing style. I’m looking forward to reading more of her hockey boys!
She is the most important person in my life and always will be because she showed me that life is about overcoming struggles and opening yourself up to possibility.
-
FOUR FURY HOCKEY STARS
"The contact is so explosive, so richly captivating, that I immediately feel like I'm drowning in a sea of desire."
At the risk of sounding like I'm repeating myself, once again I have to express the fact that nothing attracts me more to a book than the words 'sports related and romance' in the same sentence. Sawyer Bennett blew me away with her romantic story telling and I can tell you right from the start that although the cover to this book is delicious all by itself it does not give what's inside justice. If you are expecting an easy going romance with all the usual ingredients for a book in this genre then you'll be pleasantly surprised because not only do you get all of the above but you get a whole lot more. Bennett has packed her pages full of heart felt sentiments and a journey of two characters that completely stole my attention. 'Alex' is a gorgeously written tale of healing, love and fulfilment and I for one am fully convinced by this authors talent.
What's it all about?
Alex Crossman is a NHL superstar with an attitude as big as his talent. Winning hockey games has never been his problem but fighting his past so that it doesn't affect his future is becoming a living nightmare. Following the demands of his management team Alex must start to change his public image and make some drastic changes. When Sutton price first meets the famous hockey star she finds herself attracted to this difficult man with more secrets than she is able to unravel, but as this duo start to work together the attraction is undeniable and they soon start to feel more for each other than they both dare to admit. But sadly when broken pasts and an unwillingness to love gets in the way of a happy ending they both have to make the decision to fight for what they love.
What did I love?
Determination, courage, love and full of heart this book made my reading time a pleasure. 'Alex' was a superb love story that had plenty of depth and emotion attached to it. One of things I appreciated most about this authors story telling and what stood out to me most was that the author didn't add any additional, unnecessary drama to sensationalise the story telling instead Bennett has created a story line that turned out to be a fantastic page turner and fabulous love story. As for the characters, they also thoroughly impressed me. I have no qualms about admitting that a hero with a moody, brooding self confessed prick persona is always going to be winning brownie points in my camp. I love that 'love to hate' you feeling and this author has captured that perfectly in this book. Alex Crossman has more than his fair share of demons to fight, and I enjoy nothing more than a tortured hero who discovers he may be falling in love. The heroine was perfectly relatable she had her insecurities without ever being overbearing or irritating in fact she was the star of the show as she showed her strength through her difficulties. Everything from the hockey playing to the passion and heartache was played out so well there was little to find fault about. If you like to read about affairs of the heart that have a great plot to go alongside it then you won't go far wrong picking up this book. And as always when I read a book as good a this one I'm now going on the hunt for books that are similar. Sawyer Bennett has well and truly earned my attention and I can happily add this couple to one of my favourites.
Why not five?
I battled a little with myself over the rating of this book. There is undeniably no question as to whether I loved this book or not and I'm sure I'll not be for forgetting this authors name for future releases. However (it's a small however) there were times when the story slowed down somewhat and I felt a lull in the plot progress that made consider the full five star rating. But make no mistake I enjoyed the journey from chapter one until the end and I was a little forlorn to say goodbye to the two characters that I had most certainly grown to love.
Final thoughts ...
I'm not sure what this author plans on working on next but I have no shame in admitting that I will beg, plead and stalk Mrs Bennett for a book to be written about Garrett. As a secondary character in this book he stole just a little of the limelight and I'm now desperately in need for that hero to find his own happy ending. As for 'Alex' this will be a novel that I have no doubts about revisiting. Sexy, heartwarming, romantic and completely read worthy this book had me from the moment I picked it up right up until the end. If you love the books you read to include a charming heroine with plenty of heart and a hero that gets your heart pounding then this story will be a treat for you. I'm still thinking on this story days after finishing it and I'm hoping other readers will love it just as much as I did. Readers don't miss out on meeting Alex Crossman he's a hero I'm sure you'll love to hate and by the end I can guarantee he will have won you over. Enjoy, kisses.
*ARC generously provided by netgalley in exchange for an honest review.* -
5 honest stars...painfully so
I love reading sport themed books, especially about hockey. I'm a proud puck lover:) And I really enjoyed reading this one. There was not unnecessary drama, there were hot steamy sex scenes and finally there were wonderful charachters.
Alex, named MVP - Most Valuable Prick, is an incredible hockey player, too bad he doesn't give a shit about a game, his team and fans. To fix his and team's reputation, Cold Fury's management sends him to participate in a drug awareness program. That is where he meets Sutton, a drug counsellor he is supposed to cooperate with. What they both have in common, is their rough past, the difference is she moved on and is doing well, while he still lets the past rule his present. They can't deny mutual attraction and slowly their professional relationship turns into something more. There was a slight slip-up on Alex's part along the way, but nothing major, not the drama I couldn't deal with and enough grovelling made me forgive him fast (and yes it was soooo grovelling). Also, believe me when I say that Alex is sex on skates! That man is hawt and lickable, not kidding! Just imagine those ice hockey bodies and you'll get the picture:) A little example maybe?
Sawyer Bennett has an incredible talent of creating asshole heroes, that I fall for, and this one was no exception. Alex is mean and bitter, he has no friends or social life, always sarcastic and cocky bastard you would say, but he is not that man when it comes to Sutton. He is caring and attentive, she seems to know how to bring the best part of him to the surface.
"You know you're extremely beautiful, but when you laugh you're just stunning."
"She brought color into my gray existence, and for that I owe her everything."
I also liked that Sutton didn't steal the show here, the title is "Alex" and it was a book about Alex, though she played an important part of the story. With her help, he slowly changed from unlikable person to friendly team-mate, loving boyfriend and good role model for his young fans.
Aww, and I loved the ending and epilogue. Using the motive from "Love actually" was a brilliant idea. It was sweet and heart-warming. Ok, I saw this gif in other reviews, but it is just asking to put it here, I can't help myself using it too, sorry girls;)
We also got to meet Garret (Smart. Mother. Fucker.), Alex's team mate, who is womanizer, but the one that is respectful to women he "has fun with" and I can't wait to see him being struck by cupid's arrow.
Oh, one more thing, I almost forgot, total cover lust !!! I hope Garrett's book will have as hot cover as this one, seriously drooling here;)
"ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review." -
3 stars!
After reading two very intense and powerfully gripping books, I turned to this book as it seemed like a light and straight-forward read, something I was in the mood for. I guess I shouldn’t judge a book by itshotcover because it wasn’t just all fun and steamy. Behind Alex’s cold indifference and Sutton’s bubbly enthusiasm lie issues that are common in many households: abuse and alcoholism. I deeply admire the author for tackling both of these tough subjects in this book and giving these characters, albeit fictional, hope that no matter how harsh their past, no one has control over their present and future. It is a beautiful message. However, there are a few things I wasn’t too fond of that were present in this book and kept me from fully enjoying it.
1. Alex’s hot-and-cold behavior
When I first got a glimpse of Alex’s childhood, I wanted to hug the man. I also understood his loathing for hockey, his father, and relationships in general. Yet it still doesn’t give him a reason to treat others – and especially Sutton – like trash just because he’s in a shitty mood. My biggest complaint would be his momentary lapse in judgment near the end of the book: WORST. DECISION. EVER. This part was annoying because I felt like it was completely unnecessary – I mean if Alex is going to at least make the reason good. Oh and this:
“Garrett told me that I wouldn’t have to grovel.”
What an unnecessary What a waste of book page space.
2. Sutton letting everyone roll over her like she’s dough
What is her middle name, doormat? Don’t get me wrong, she’s a good woman but at the same time she was so…obtuse.
Old boyfriend breaks up with her for lousy reasons and crushes her heart? ...oh whatever.
Alex is an ass to her? ...Forgives him.
Other people piss her off? ...*shrugs*
Quite frankly, I think it’s just eerie that someone like Sutton exists. Call me cynical or whatever…but I’m going to quote from another book that explains what I think of her: “I think there’s something seriously wrong with anyone who isn’t at least a little let down by the world.” - How To Kill A Rock Star
*********************
Additionally, the wrap-up of all the loose ends in this book (Alex’s dad, Sutton’s ex, etc…) was just too perfect and all jammed together I felt like the author was rushing to give them an HEA. However, she does have a very simple yet addictive writing style that I liked and the ending was sweet but it wasn’t enough because I didn’t really love any of the characters. All in all, an easily forgettable story that provided temporary enjoyment.
ARC provided by Random House Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. -
4.5 Stars It's
LIVE
Sutton Price works as a counsellor at a crisis centre. She’s there for the kids and is passionate about making a difference in their lives. Sutton herself has experienced and overcome a great deal of difficulty, giving her wonderful inner strength and a quiet, all knowing confidence that's contagious. Sutton is both endearing and inspiring.
Twenty-six year old Alex is our HOT Hockey playing hero and the MVP of the team. “Most valuable prick.” He’s a complete asshole to everyone, fans and team mates alike, but he's also their superstar gifted player so he gets away with it, until now..... Now, he's been ordered to improve his reputation by working on a project with Sutton.
Sutton knows nothing about Hockey so she's not overwhelmed in anyway by his persona. Something about Sutton, her honesty, her care, her attitude towards life inspires Alex to think and feel differently about everything, including the game of Hockey. They change things for each other in a beautiful, inspiring way.
They have gorgeous chemistry.
Sutton aims to keep things as business only and he doesn't 'do' relationships of any kind but they have a strong pull to one another, an undeniable attraction both physically and mentally.
Alex is closed off emotionally but, as in all good romances, the love and care of a wonderful heroine is a balm to his wounds. The way he responds to her is blissfully mixed with a dash of angst. I felt his presence and charisma and their first time together is... WOW... magnificently hot! In fact the story is a whole load of yumminess!
Things hang in the balance….. Alex has the power to screw things up or let himself feel. He’s burdened by the weight of his past and present.
One small thing, equally I like that this author approached it in a slightly different manner than one would expect.
I found myself smiling my way through the read and feeling the warm fuzzies, it appealed to my romantic side in a big way. Alex is perfectly paced and lightly angsty which is perfect for the story presented. I loved the narrative of the heroine, her inner voice is effortless on the mind and Alex is just dreamy, I loved being inside his brooding head. I felt a wonderful subtlety to the writing, there are no over dramatics which I greatly appreciated. This is one of those stories that I picked up with little expectation. I’ve never read a book by this author and I’m not a Hockey fan, partly due to the fact that it’s not a big sport in the UK. I have to say after reading ALEX, I wish it was. Alex has made me want to soak up the experience of an Ice Hockey match, preferably with him in it!
Arc provided by Random House Publishing group, via NetGalley, for an honest review -
★4.5★
"No story. Love playing hockey, love fucking women, love spending my money. I'm a pretty simple guy."
Alex is the first book in the Cold Fury Hockey Series. Each book can be read as a stand-alone. If you are a fan of hockey romance, this series is one blockbuster hit you do not want to miss. Alex is the bad boy of hockey. Although he is a superstar on the ice, he is quite the player with the women. Due to his bad image, Alex is forced to make some changes if he wants to keep his career on the right path. When the team management sends him to complete some outreach for the team, Alex meets Sutton. Sutton is a social worker who is working in a drug abuse center. Alex is completely taken with Sutton and despite his fears of connecting with someone on a deeply intimate level, he finds something in Sutton that he wants to have. Alex and Sutton have much to overcome with the pressures of being in the spotlight and yet, the passion and friendship that blooms between them cannot be denied.
"The contact is so explosive, so richly captivating, that I immediately feel like I'm drowning in a sea of desire."
Told in dual POV, Alex is an absolutely stunning hockey romance full of action, passion, and tender romance. The characters are complex as both have had to overcome a tremendous amount of adversity. I really enjoyed the connection between Alex and Sutton and how they discovered peace amidst all of the chaos around them. I thoroughly enjoy the Cold Fury Hockey action and I felt like this first book offers a perfect blend of both hockey action and smoking hot passion. In addition to my Kindle almost catching on fire, I found there to be great depth in the plot and the way in which the characters relate to one another."I know I'm probably still destined to screw things up with Sutton but I've decided, until then, my soul is her bitch."
Overall, I recently discovered this series and all I can say is where have I been? It is official, I am now a complete Cold Fury addict and I cannot wait to meet every single player of the Cold Fury Hockey Team! Hockey romance fans absolutely must check this series out.
***Cold Fury Hockey***
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
-
*****4.5 STARS*****
(ARC Kindly Provided by Random House Publishing Group via Netgalley)
{BR with Mel and Dee}
This was my first time reading a book written by Sawyer Bennett, and I can honestly say that I am looking forward to reading the rest of the books in this series, plus all over her other works!! I've read one other book about a sexy Hockey player, and after having read "ALEX", I think I'm going to make it my mission to read more of these types of stories!! WOW!!!
Alex Crossman plays for North Carolina's NHL team the Cold Fury. He's the designated bad boy of the team. Definitely the best player, but has an attitude that rubs his fellow team mates, managers, and fans the wrong way. Alex usually scores the most goals in every game, which deems him the "MVP", but fans give him the nickname, Most Valuable Prick. He's a professional hockey player, who hates the game itself. This is due to having an abusive father who pushed him beyond his limits to be the best at the sport.
The team's management is looking to improve Alex's reputation. He's told he must act as the Cold Fury's spokesman for an anti-drug abuse campaign. He will be working closely with a counselor at the local Drug Crisis Center. Alex is a bit ticked off by being forced into this community service but it's either comply or kiss his career goodbye.
Sutton Price is a counselor at the Wake County Drug Crisis Center. She's very passionate about her job and excited about her project to start up a new program to help at-risk youth throughout the state. She knows she will be working closely with Alex on the project but since she's not a hockey fan, she knows nothing about him.
As soon as they meet there's an instant attraction. Sutton tries to fight it as she thinks it would be unprofessional to get involved with each other. Alex has never had any deep feelings for a woman before. He tends to stick to women who offer up casual sex.
Alex and Sutton will not fight their feelings for each other for too long. The
sex scenes were insanely hot! But there was more to their relationship than the amazing sex, they seemed to be a perfect fit and Sutton actually brings light back into Alex' life. He comes out of his protective shell and begins to socialize with his team mates. He even begins to find the passion that he had lost for Hockey.
Something has to come along and cause drama for the couple and it will be Alex's old demons from the past. I was not a fan of how he handled things with Sutton, but I give her credit for not taking any of his crap and letting him know just what a douche he was being.
She's precariously close to becoming my everything, a thought that scares the daylights out of me. I'm not sure I'm ready for that responsibility, particularly not when I have so many ghosts that continue to torture me.
This story had several secondary characters that I loved, but my favorite was Garrett, a fellow team mate of Alex's. I'm anxious to read his book!
I loved how he helps Alex towards the end and I have to just say that the Epilogue was PERFECT!! I definitely recommend this one. It had a deliciously hot book boyfriend, awesome heroine, and the book was all around an enjoyable read. -
**3.75 HOT COVER stars**
Wow, when I saw that cover I knew I wanted to read ALEX.
The MVP (Most ValuablePlayerPrick), Alex, is not a well-liked player or person. He may be Mr. Hockey Hottie but he's not winning points with fans or teammates. His attitude stems from his childhood with a drunk father. This lack of love for the game and his poor attitude has his coach wanting him to clean up his act.
Forced to work on a project to better his image he's assigned to work with social worker, Sutton, on a drug/alcohol campaign to help the youth in the community. At the beginning of the book I had a few moments where I felt like Sutton wasn't a 22 year old but rather a 40 year old divorcee (drinking wine alone in the house she owns...all she was missing was a cat or two).
"Seems some hot hockey player has my attention now." -Sutton
"Yeah? That's ironic, because I'm sort of lusting after this hot drug counselor I met." -Alex
"Sounds like a match made in heaven." -Sutton
I loved the "Love Actually" movie moment in the hockey rink. I fell a little for Alex at that moment. But then during the epilogue he had me swooning.
COLD FURY is a professional hockey team chalked full of hot guys that we will see in upcoming books.
Release date: 10/14/2014
Pre-order | order:
http://amzn.to/1tXaaPM
SERIES:
To find out when the next books will be released
click here.
**Complimentary copy courtesy of Random House, Loveswept, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
Quotes are subject to change in the final publication. -
4--Cold Fury--Stars!!
I actually really liked this one. I love sports themed books. I can't say this one was wowing or anything out of the box but I still enjoyed it nonetheless.
Neither of the main charactes were annoying and stupid....there wasn't a bunch of dumb drama....and there was some good steam.
Alex Crossman is a star hockey player in the NHL. He's the MVP of hockey....the Most Valuable Prick. He's an asshole. An asshole who has let his past dictate his future.
Sutton Price is a counselor for a drug crisis center. She hasn't let her past dictate her future. She's risen above her past and found a way to help others.
In an effort to improve Alex's image, he's been enlisted to work with Sutton on an anti-drug abuse campaign.
"...I like Sutton Price. I like her a lot and for probably a million other reasons. I probably like her most for the fact that she is getting me to re-evaluate the way I look at things."
There's just something about Sutton. Maybe because they come from similar backgrounds. But Alex finds himself starting to actually like hockey again. Starting to smile again, laugh again. But his past is always there in the background threatening to pull him back under.
I really liked Sutton and Alex together. They were sweet together, they were hot together. Alex may have started out as an asshole, but Sutton brought out the best in him.
"She makes me uncomfortable....the clarity with which she seems to see me.
She makes me curious as to what else she might see.
She makes me want....something, but I'm not sure what."
I loved that there wasn't a bunch of drama and angst. Just one minor "thing" that was resolved pretty quickly. And I loved the resolution.
The epilogue also made me tear up a bit too! So sweet!
Great start to the series. I hope the next book is about Garrett!
ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review -
LIVE
http://www.amazon.com/Alex-Cold-Hocke...
4 Most Valuable Prick Stars
Alexander Crosssman is the Most Valuable Player for the Cold Fury, but he is also the biggest Prick in the league. While this persona would bother most, Alex relishes it. He hates the game and everything it involves, he would quit tomorrow if had another plan, but he doesn’t. He is stuck and being stuck makes him hate it even more.
That is until the owner threatens to begin fining him if he doesn’t shape up. As a part of revamping his image, Alex has to work with a counselor at the local drug crisis center to develop a campaign to help the youth in the county. This is where he meets Sutton.
Sutton had a difficult life growing up, her father was an addict and her mother worked nonstop to provide for them. Sutton refuses to let her past define her, instead she focuses on what she does have: an awesome stepfather, a mother who loves her, a little brother with a heart of gold, great friends, and job where she is making a difference.
Alex and Sutton both had a hellacious past, and while Sutton has moved on, Alex is still very much living in his hell. Alex and Sutton begin spending time together, dating and he can see himself changing. Sutton is bringing back his love for the game and completely changing his life.
I really enjoyed this one. The story moved pretty quickly. I love an asshole and Alex definitely had that role down, but throughout the story he grew and realized what he wanted, on and off the ice. Sutton was honest, loving, and understanding. I actually wish she had been a little less understanding, there were times when I wanted her to get mad, scream, fight - anything! But she didn’t, because it isn’t true to her character - just mine. LOL
There were parts that were a little cheesy to me, but overall I really enjoyed and would recommend to someone looking for a quick, sexy read with minimal drama.
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. -
DNF @ 30%
So I was oscillating between putting this one on the "on-hold" shelf or just dnf-ing it.
But let's be honest here, the "on-hold" shelf is basically just the on deck circle for the dnf shelf...but just a nicer way of saying "Fuck. This."
I'm sure there is a good story in here if I gave it a shot, but I just can't because, frankly? I think Sutton is extremely annoying. Extremely.
I find her thoughts, thought process, and manner of description to be borderline puerile and her point of view to be quite irritatingly tiresome.
So the thought of continuing this when a great majority of the this book is written from Sutton's first person POV?
-
3.5 most valuable prick STARS
“Seems some hot hockey player has my attention now.”
“Yeah? That's ironic, because I'm sort of lusting after this hot drug counselor I met.”
“Sounds like a match made in heaven.”
Alex was my very first read by
Sawyer Bennett and while I enjoyed this story quite a lot it wasn't something that blew me away. But please don't let that keep you from reading this one, it's just a classic case of it's me not you. I've read a few very emotionally charged and demanding books over the last few weeks and poor Alex, although he is such a loveable most valuable prick, paled in comparison.
“The more I'm getting to know Alex Crossman, the more I am definitely not liking him.”
Alexander Crossman is a brilliant hockey player with an attitude and public image problem. If it wasn't for his mad skills on the ice he would have been thrown out of the NHL a long time ago. Ever met a professional player who doesn't love the game? Well, here is one.
Alex's bad behaviour and general indifference toward his team and the fans forces the management to take drastic turns. He gets a very special assignment/punishment. Work on a drug-abuse awareness program for at-risk youth for one year. What he doesn't expect is his fiery new partner.
“This is essentially my jailer for the next year, which also makes her my enemy.
And I can't fuck the enemy.
At least I don't think I can.”
Sutton Price is a twenty-two year old drug counsellor. She is for all intends and purposes the polar opposite from Alex. She is a good and caring person with big heart, has a deep love for her work and the golden touch with people in general.
I really loved their first meeting. Sutton has a little jaw on the floor situation and Alex with no shame whatsoever asks her out right away. Yeah, inst-lust alert! And then they find out who they really are and what they have to do with each other.
Lucky for Alex, Sutton is someone who has the ability to ignore all of his bullshit, get under his skin and bring down some walls. In the end both have a lot more in common than they might think.���I lucked out when I met you.”
Despite his less than favourable behaviour, Alex is actually a very lovable character and thanks to the double POV I never, not for one second, didn't like him. Just like Sutton, who is a really likeable heroine without any annoying traits or quirks.
I'm only giving Alex 3.5 stars because of the book's mellow nature, the inst-lust and the fact that they take a lot of time to get down and dirty. But once they do...oh wow. They do it all the time. Which actually got a bit repetitive as well. *shrugs*
All in all a satisfying read with two really well developed character, wonderful side characters. Especially Sutton's family was so sweet and caring, you just want to have dinner with them and then cuddle Glenn. What a sweet child. Oh, and I can't finish this review without mentioning Garrett...lucky for us the next book in the series is about him. I for one can't wait. ;D
Short but sweet review, I hope that's ok. Thank you for your time. ;D
**ARC kindly provided by the publisher via Net-Galley in exchange for an honest review.
-
3.5 stars!
I would have rated it higher had Alex's sudden change of heart been convincing, but it was too unbelievable. I would've let it go but I found myself getting bored halfway through the book, which doesn't bode well for me.
But mostly, it was just the way Alex suddenly turned from most valuable prick to saint in an instant. I didn't mind that he changed because he met the right girl but his transformation from being a heartless bastard to sensitive guy just didn't sound convincing to me. It was totally unbelievable that he changed that fast and that drastically. He doesn't care about his teammates before but after he got together with Sutton, he's all lovey-dovey with his team mates?
Despite that, there's still a lot of things I enjoyed. I liked Sutton and her family. Garrett was fun, too. I liked that the author showed both Alex's professional job as well as Sutton. She could have gone all hockey and neglect Sutton's career but she didn't, and I liked that.
I also liked Alex's gesture at the end although I disagree with Sutton about the groveling part. I would have loved to see more groveling from Alex. But hey, Sutton said she's okay with it, so I guess that makes it okay then...I could hardly argue with a fictional character's decision regarding her love life now, could I?
Yup. Thought so.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. -
4.5 Only You Stars!
(ARC provided by Netgalley)
(BR with Patty & Dee)
Alexander Crossman aka Alex/Most Valuable Prick is a 26 yr. old professional hockey player for the Carolina Cold Fury in Raleigh, North Carolina. He is their star player, but also the player everyone loves to hate. He is the teams bad boy with an attitude problem. He is a phenomenal player with so much talent & ability, but he doesn't care about the game and just does enough to get by.
After being with the Fury for almost 6 years, Alex wasn't happy, & still hated the sport. This was a result of his daddy issues. He had an abusive, overbearing father who only cared about making his son into a hockey star. He was deprived of a normal childhood, & never shown love. As a result he is a damaged adult that is detached from his emotions, who has never been in a relationship.
Because of his poor attitude the hockey league decides he needs to clean up his image. They want him to be the team spokesman for an anti-drug abuse campaign. He is sent to the Wake County Drug Crisis Center to meet with the counselor he will be working closely with. Her name is Sutton Price. He meets her and is shocked by his intense attraction to her. He feels an instant connection and chemistry that he hasn't ever experienced.
As they spend time together working on the outreach program they really enjoy each others company, & find they have a lot in common. Their friendship eventually turns intimate as they are seduced by one another. Alex is absolutely captivated by her, and scared of how strongly he feels for her. She's been this beautiful bright spot since she came into his life, but he's afraid to let her too close.
Eventually after some drama, Alex learns not to let his past or his pain control him. Sutton understands him & makes him re-evaluate the way he looks at things. She becomes his everything & helps him heal & feel deserving of love. This was my first book by this author & I loved it! I'm now dying for more of these hot hockey players & can't wait for Garrett's book! :D
-"You know you're extremely beautiful, but when you laugh you're just stunning."
-"Sutton... I don't know what this is... between us. But I know it's something. I know it's pulling me, and trust me when I tell you... nothing has pulled at me in a long time."
-"You reached me. When no one else ever has."
-I'll fight hard for you.
-She fascinates me like no other person I've met, and that scares me just a bit. It excites me too.
-You are the most important thing in the world to me. -
2,5 stars
This book is the first one of the “Cold Fury Hockey” series.
The hero Alex is the star player of his team but he is known for his as*hole behavior. He is cold and distant and sometimes even rude to his team players and fans. The way he treats women is unbearably gross.
Now Alex needs to fix his public image through community service (a drug-abuse awareness program for at-risk youth) or the other option is to ride the bench.
When he meets the social worker, Sutton Price, who is going to assist him for this community service, there is instant attraction between them.
***********************************************
The backgrounds of Alex and Sutton are similar.
She was abused in the hands of a drug addict father and he was abused by his alcoholic father.
However, Sutton has built up a new life that she can find happiness in whereas Alex hates his life and cannot still cope with his past. His surly behavior today toward everyone stems from his unhappy and stolen childhood and his inability to make peace with it.
***********************************************
These two characters bond very quickly and they have a strong chemistry between them. Sutton is a wonderful heroine that is impossible to love. I liked her really a lot.
Their relationship gets better and better but Alex never lets her in completely. He doesn't want anyone's pity.
He is also always pessimistic about their future. He believes they won't last. He believes he will hurt her. He cannot think positively no matter what.
Still, he wants to be with her as long as it lasts. Because he doesn't let her in completely, their relationship is mostly physical, which bothered me a bit.
***********************************************
Once or twice there is an OW & OM drama caused by Sutton's ex-boyfriend and Alex's ex hookup but both of them handle those events in the best way possible not to upset each other and it doesn't affect their relationship. On the contrary, it seems to strengthen it until Alex ruins it all by himself.
***********************************************
My problems with the book:
Nothing much happens for a long while really. It is quite an uneventful book. That's why, it feels slow and dragging.
***********************************************
I cannot forgive the hero!
Sadly, towards the end, there are the daddy issues arising on both sides. Sutton handles it very well but Alex fails to do so.
From then on, it goes worse and worse. At one point, Alex pushes Sutton away and breaks her heart.
All in all, this is not a bad book but it wasn't one that evolved the way I would prefer it did.
***********************************************
Thinking that each book will drag like the first one did, or fearing that one of the characters will piss me off again as much as Alex did, I am reluctant to continue the series. -
4,5 Furious Stars.
Alex is every women secret dream: sexy, bad-boy, slightly broken… all wrapped up in a hot hockey player body. But his life is very public and the different woman and scandals are leaving him and the team in trouble. So his coach and sponsors make him an ultimatum: work with a social assistant in a program against drugs to clear his image. Sutton, the social assistant, leads a very simple life and usually don’t get attracted by bad boys: until Alex appear in her office saying they will work together for a year. And, oh well, he could very well be the exception.
They immediately know that the feelings between them are different than anything they’ve felt before, but when they finally give in and admit that there’s definitely something between them, Sutton is about to find out if a bad boy can chance for love… or if its bound to breaking hearts.
Rating: 4,5 Stars.
Storyline: If you’re into players (in the real meaning of the word) you’re going to love this sweet and entertaining romance with just the perfect amount of sexy and bad-boy-ish.
Writing Style: First person. Dual POV. Very well written and completely engaging.
Character Development: Sutton was a pretty good heroine. She was sweet, realistic and fought for what she wanted. And guess what? She wasn’t annoying, and believe me, that is a common problem with the girls. Unfortunately.
Alex was also pretty good and although he had some moments where I wanted to slap him, I liked him a lot.
I simply loved Garret… I really can’t wait for his book!
Steam: Some hot moments.
HEA: -
***4,5 "Painfully honest" stars***
(Oh, God!!! I couldn't resist to that photo!!!)
I don't think you are having problem with that, right????
When i started reading Alex, i thought that this book was like all the others with hockey players, but i was so bloody wrong!!! It was a little bit different and i really find myself hooked from the story...
It was an interesting story full of sentimental and possibilities...
Well, Alex was little bit of a jackass in the beginning!!!
He was characterized by everyone as a MVP, whick means Most Valuable Prick of the hockey team of Cold Fury of Carolina... And they were so right...
The man hated everything... He hated his life, his sport... Everything...
He was cold as a stone and literally an Asshole... To his teammates, to women, to his own fans...
(Yeah, after a while i understand all the reasons why he was like that and i gave him all the right of the world...)
And because of his shitty attitude the team's management tried to punish him by forcing him to join a program about children who lived with addict parents and that was where he met Sutton...
Sutton was a social worker and she was specialized to children with addict parents... She was kind, caring, sweet and very pleasant. She was an expert to her work, since she knew from first hand how it was to live with an addict father...
But now her life is better, since her mother took their lives in her hand... She has a very lovely family which apparted by her mother, her stepfather and her little brother. She had managed to buy a house of her own and now, its given a big opportunity in her work by working in a project with mighty player Alex Crossman. But Alex is not what she was expecting to be...
The thing is that from the first moment something started to born between Sutton and Alex...
Especially for Alex made a big difference since he was a loner...
With Sutton start to see his life differently and he is starting to open up about himself...
He started to feel and that exciting him and scaring the hell out of him at the same time!!!
He even started to make some friends...
For Sutton the only thing that i have to say that she had too much understandment and that i don't know if it's good or bad. She evaluated too much the other people to be painfully honest with her, even though it hurts like hell and Alex was given her what she wanted...
My only objection about her was the thing with her ex...
How can she thinks to be back to him when he told her that he want a break to live his life with other women, even though he was brutal honest about it, and when he was satisfied with himself returned back to continue the things from where they left it???
Oh, God!!! This man was such an idiot!!!
And thank God that Alex get in the way because she will be that stupid to take him back!!!
Anyway, i really enjoyed the way that Sutton and Alex interacted to each other's life.
They were so good for each other and i really liked how the cold, ass character of Alex unfolded to a man worthy to love...
I really have to say that i hated Alex's father. The things that he did to him were unacceptable. The way he was pushing his son was wrong and that's why Alex developed that kind of character. Because of his father his life became flat, gray and meaningless...
And Sutton manage to bring colours and joy in him, but he was unprepared for this feelings...
Before i close my review, i would like to tell you something about Sutton's brother. This sweetheart made me a big impression. He was so kind, so loving, so modest... He made me smile and cry at the same time. I really loved that small guy!!!!
And of course, now i want to learn everything about Garrett. The only friend of Alex!!! -
This is book one of what promises to be a really good series. I usually have to be in the mood for a book about sports, and the mood doesn't strike me too often. I did however enjoy "Alex" written by Sawyer Bennett. There was so much more to this story than a guy who is rich and famous, and who plays for the Cold Fury hockey team. This is a story about how two people who come from very troubled pasts, rise above their trauma and create a present and future that they deserve for themselves. Although, for Alex this doesn't come quickly and it doesn't come easy. He has a ton of hang ups, and his passion for the game of hockey is no longer there. Alex starts off extremely bitter, a loner, and very angry at the father who abused him his whole childhood. Seeing as Alex is so uninspired by his game, his coach decides to force Alex's participation in an outreach program for teens who have parents who are addicted to drugs. This is where he is introduced to the ray of sunlight...Sutton.
Sutton shows Alex that you can rise above your emotional pain from your past, and especially to not let it define who you are. They have so much in common, and the fact that they both had father's who were living with addiction seemed to amaze Alex in so many ways. For the most part, it forced him to have to look at himself and see that he was living a very negative life when there was Sutton who had the courage to become a stronger person because of what she went through. The frustrating part for Sutton though is that she knows Alex has a huge part of himself closed off to her. He hasn't told her about any of his past, and she feels that there are things he is not telling her. She is falling in love with a man who isn't giving his full heart to her.
I loved reading about Sutton and Alex's relationship that was developing. It was refreshing to see Alex slowly open up and become a better person when he was with his woman. The sex was intense, and often very raw. I did feel that this story more concentrated on Alex's journey than Sutton's; but it was still very enjoyable. I did get frustrated with Alex's reluctance to let Sutton into his personal issues. A few of his choices made me want to throw my Kindle at the wall, but I practiced my restraint and behaved myself!!!! The next book is about Garrett, who gives new definition to the meaning of a manwhore! I am extremely intrigued to see what makes this guy tick! I am glad I gave this series a chance, and I look forward to meeting some of the Cold Fury team members! Bring on the sexy hockey team!!! -
*****4.5 Cold Fury Stars****
(Arc kindly provided by Netgalley)
(BR with Mel and Patty)
Alex is an utterly delicious, yet very compelling story and I got swept away by this novel the minute I started reading it.
Alexander Crossman (super sexy name, by the way) is very successful hockey player, he has a reputation for being the best at his game but also as a cold hearted, mean player who's insensitive to everything and everyone. He never interacts with the fans or even his teammates, and now his dark personality is hurting the Carolina Cold Fury. The team's executives are forcing him to participate in a Anti-Drug campaign and serve as spoke person for the team in an effort to change his image. Sutton Price is a case worker and the one in charge to work with the handsome athlete in this project. They get off on a rough start due to Alex's sour personality but Sutton is not one to back down or get easily discouraged by difficulties, and little by little she starts to get under his skin. They become friends first, but their sexual chemistry is too strong and soon they give into their desires for each other. These two characters were very compatible, they were explosive lovers and within the fire of their relationship they both found a haven away from all their personal struggles. This book is an exciting love story were this beautiful man battles with himself to allow happiness into his life for the first time ever. Sutton has opened his heart and his senses to a whole new world were darkness doesn't take over everything. I truly enjoyed this author's writing style and easy and very relatable way of story telling. I highly recommend it!!!
Alex was hot enough to melt the ice and I am now looking at hockey with a new set of eyes, I need go get myself to a Hockey game pronto. Don't miss out on this great read... ❤️ -
I don't have much to say about this book. I just couldn't get into it. I didn't like the two love interests. Nothing really stood out to me. It was boring to be honest. I'm rating this book 3 stars as in okay. This read was definitely lacking something I'm just not sure what they are. I will read another book in this series and hopefully it will be better than this.
-
So this book started of well. But then there were things that just made me wanting to take a hockey stick myself and hit the MCs over their heads. Painfully so. I was oscillating between liking the characters and just being annoyed with them.
But in the end the liking part won, by a very small margin though. -
4 Loving Hunky Hockey Men, Period Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free
I must confess... I have only been to one hockey game in my life... and it was in New York City with a first or second date... I was more interested in him, being with him, looking at him... and wondering what was going to happen after the game... then the game. Taking a moment to hang head in shame.... (date was meh, he was meh... end of story).
I have paid the appropriate attention since, though. You have a sportsbook and Hockey being the sport.... and I am there. There is something about the way the excitement of the game, the physicality, and team bonding which translates well to the page. Add an excellent story with characters you can care about and with the final touch of sensuality and humor...Done... delicious.
Sawyer Brown is no slouch. Her legal books I have read rocked. These have the same speed, merit, and grace. She has created a series with a team, heart, bad boys, and plot to pull it all together. You root for the main characters to find their turning point of recognition... to see what is right before their eyes... and when they do... it all falls together.
The blurb sets this up... and the reading is complete from the first page to last. This is a series I will be reading with a grin on my face.
Alex (Cold Fury Hockey, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Garrett (Cold Fury Hockey, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Zack (Cold Fury Hockey #3) 
Ryker (Cold Fury Hockey, #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Hawke (Cold Fury Hockey, #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Max (Cold Fury Hockey, #6)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Roman (Cold Fury Hockey, #7)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Lucas (Cold Fury Hockey, #8)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Van (Cold Fury Hockey, #9)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Reed (Cold Fury Hockey, #10)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Marek (Cold Fury Hockey, #11)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
-
4 Stars
A perfect blend of fun, flirtation, angst and heat - with a touch of seriousness and some sweetness mixed in for good measure. This book was a perfect read for the mood I was in ... wanting something not too heavy or over the top emotional, but not too silly or cheesy either.
Meet Alex Crossman. He's a professional hockey player. He's been voted MVP. But for this story MVP stands for Most Valuable Prick. That's right ladies & gentleman ... he's an asshole ... and he doesn't care if you hate him. Which, crazy as it sounds, made me absolutely love him. He's one of those characters that's all alpha ... unforgiving, unapologetic and unafraid. Except, you know deep down in his tiny black soul there's a scarred little boy.
When Alex's bad attitude and worse reputation put him at odds with the team manager, he's ordered to clean up his image or else.
Enter, Sutton Price. She's a dedicated social worker. Caring, focused, committed to helping people ... Sutton dreams of working with at-risk youth. This girl is tough as nails and I adored her for it ... she did not put up with Alex's b.s. for one second & was happy to put him in his place. The way she was able to stand up to him right away & the way she had turned her childhood trauma into a positive force in her life ... astounding!
The plot line was a little predictable, which holds this back from being a five star read. But I did really like the details of this one. The characters (including secondary) were really well written ... perhaps there were moments where I felt they were a little type cast, but it played out well in the end & didn't interrupt my ability to enjoy the story.
There were some very cute and funny moments ... a few moments of intensity ... and definitely quite a few moments of sweaty, sexy hotness too.
Overall a great book to loose yourself in for a day ... especially if you don't want to be in tears ... this is a feel good story & for that I say "Thank You" to the author. My first time reading Sawyer Bennett, but definitely not my last! -
![[~Ami~]♥Sexy Dexy♥](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1388500902i/22427047._UY200_CR8,0,200,200_.jpg)
3 stars
Hockey player Alex the ass has been assigned to a drugs awareness program. With the help of social worker Sutton would he be able to let go of his anger?
I liked Sutton, she was a pretty good heroine. The insta lust I could just about look past but Alex though, I felt like he was all talk about being a douche but it didnt really come across.
I liked it enough to finish the book and the steam was good. Overall was an okay read nothing mind blowing.
ARC provided by NetGalley -
4.5 angry hockey player with a big stick stars
Alex Crossman is one of the best hockey players in the NHL... in fact, many of his teammates and fans refer to him as the MVP, except they say it stands for Most Valuable Prick. Doesn't bother Alex. While he may have the skills to be elite, he hates playing the game; thus, he genuinely doesn't care what anyone thinks. But the powers that be at the top of the Carolina Cold Fury management levels have had enough of his flippant attitude, outright rudeness to fans, and complete indifference to the game. They have decided that Alex is going to make some changes, or he is going to be benched regardless of where his stats rank in the league. For a moment, Alex actually considers walking out of his coach's office and taking a seat on the pine, but the one thing his hockey career has provided him is money, and since Alex believes he isn't good at anything else, he needs to stockpile as much as he can so that he has something to fall back on once his career is over. So he very reluctantly agrees. Besides, the outreach program that the brass is insisting he serve as celebrity endorser for is one he believes in: drug & alcohol awareness and counseling services.
Sutton Price has landed her dream job and assignment: she works as a counselor at the county substance abuse center where she can help at-risk individuals, especially youth, break free from the control that drugs and alcohol can hold over them... or that has a hold of their parent(s) that, in turn, abuse their family members. Sutton has firsthand experience having been abused by a drug user (specifically, her birth father), and in escaping that situation and living her best life. All she has ever wanted is to help others find their way, and being assigned to the new drug and alcohol awareness campaign focused at middle and high school aged kids in the area with one of the star hockey players is a project she is excited to jump into. Never mind that she knows nothing about hockey or the players... so when the ridiculously large and insanely sexy man strolls into her office (3o minutes late for their meeting!), she is floored and then irritated. Sutton takes her job very seriously, and the last thing she needs is to have to rein in an unwilling "celebrity." But once she gets to know a little more about Alex, she realizes there is more to him than there seems.... and maybe he isn't so jaded as he seems to think he is.
Alex cannot believe that the gorgeous woman at the county drug center is the person he will be working on this forced assignment with, but he is definitely interested in seeing her as often as possible. Though he is attracted to physically immediately, he starts to see that there is much more to her that continues to draw his attention. For one thing, she doesn't even know who he is, and she isn't letting him get away with his usual dick-ish m.o. As he spends more time with her, he is almost upset with her that he wants to be around her even more - that has never happened to him before. But then again, no one has ever wanted to get to know him beyond his celebrity status. And Sutton seems to see through his bad behavior shield... but is she getting too close? Can Alex ever open up enough to tell her about why he hates the sport he is paid to play? Will Sutton's interest in him and learning about hockey spark some of the joy he used to take in playing the game? And while he cares for Sutton, is he even capable of giving her what she deserves: love?
What I liked:
--- Sutton was a confident woman - she knew who she was and owned it; she had a rough early childhood, but she took those circumstances and made them positive
--- Sutton's family was great - you got to see how things turned around for her, and the mutual adoration between her and her much younger brother was very sweet
--- Alex was the kind of alphahole that you can tell is burying something that makes him act the way he does, but it was clear that the only person who could have gotten to him was Sutton - he was a tough nut to crack
--- Set in Raleigh, which is just down the street from me :)
--- HOLY STEAMY GOODNESS - in mass quantity! (Was a bit of a slow burn, but then really took off)
What I didn't like as much:
--- I felt like there were some pieces that weren't really needed in the story that just took up space without really going anywhere (specifically, Sutton's ex)
--- I don't like unnecessary angst, and there was a little of that in there (though thankfully resolved quickly)
Overall, a super steamy hockey puck-fest with a solid plot, great relationship development, heartwarming moments (including a "Love Actually" nod!), and, of course, a satisfying HEA!
Plot --- 4.5/5
Main Charac2ters --- 4.5/5
Supporting Cast --- 4/5
Steam Level* --- 4/5
Violence --- some, possible triggers with respect to physical and emotional child abuse; hockey fights
Language --- yes
POV --- Dual
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild (nothing descriptive); 2/5 - 3rd base action/1 home run; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere (a couple of full-on steamy scenes); 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all -
Title: Alex (Cold Fury Hockey, #1)
Series: Cold Fury Hockey
Author: Sawyer Bennett
Release Date: October 14th, 2014
Rating: 4 "Painfully Honest" stars
Cliffhanger: No
HEA:
Alexander Crossman is a grouch, he's a loner, kind of a d*ck and it suits him just fine. He's also a Pro NHL hockey star with team mates who can't stand him and fans who have dubbed him MVP (Most Valuable Prick). He doesn't hide the fact that could care less what his team think, what the fans think; heck what anybody thinks. He's always painfully honest with others but as we discover later, not so much with himself.
In his managers efforts to clean up his image and promote the team's Cold Fury's profile, he enlists him to help a create a drug-abuse awareness program alongside a local drug counsellor. Sutton Price. She's friendly, social and all round nice girl with some spunk. After rising through her own adversities and coming out stronger than ever, she's serious about this programme and with promotional backing from Cold Fury she's willing to put aside her attraction and Alex's less than helpful behaviour to make it a success.
After this point in the story, the direction of what I expected changed. I have to point out his is an observation rather than criticism. There is the verbal sparring between them and the sexual angst/tension but there is also a more serious feel to the story.
I find when I read books by Sawyer Bennett her male leads are strong, dominate but always conscientious and sensitive. Alex is no exception. The writing was a pleasure to read and the journey with Alex a bumpy yet ultimately uplifting one. Sutton almost took a back seat in this for me, undeniably strong and determined I sometimes felt she was Alex's counsellor than Girlfriend. On reflection however, what I thought was pushy was supportive, encouraging & actually helping Alex with the breakthrough he needed. In terms of their relationship they had chemistry that was hot enough to melt the ice and a bond that was authentic.
For a self confessed "bastard" he certainly had his swoon-worthy moments.
~Copy provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you~
FOLLOW SMOKIN HOT BOOK BLOG ON:
-
Sawyer Bennett writes a beautiful, inspiring, sweet and sexy book. It addresses sad and real subjects such as abuse and addiction from two different perspectives, one drowned in the wretched effects of it and one giving hope that the past is not our jailer.
"Life is about overcoming struggles and opening yourself up to possibility."
Alex, a self-proclaimed loner, asshole and star hockey player was given a choice, play nice or don’t play at all. If given the option he would much rather forgo everything altogether, including having to deal with sultry Sutton Price.
Sutton Price deals with though to reach people for a living. She only expected a helping hand in her anti-drug outreach program. But her personal experience lets her see far beyond Alex’s abrasive exterior. Her heart recognizes in him a kindred spirit. Combined with an attraction that surpasses anything she’s ever experienced, will Alex’s prickly attitude and professional lines stop her from wanting more?
I loved how Sawyer painted a gorgeous shell of a man with god like beauty and talent but that was so filled with darkness by his horrible upbringing that he couldn’t even take pleasure much less be content doing the one thing he was acclaimed for.“Mr. Hockey Hottie. Gah, he’s utterly gorgeous, but also completely full of himself.”
Much like Sutton, I really just wanted to hug his hurts away. It was heart breaking to see how he was robbed of his childhood and how it affected his life. I loved that this crusty man was open to and even yearned the goodness Sutton brought him, nor was he selfish with his new found happiness although he sometimes didn’t know what to do with it.“Thank you… for taking the time to try to get to know me. And I think maybe for getting me when I’m not sure I even get myself”
Sutton was a bit more difficult for me to accept. Although I admired her strength, independence, dedication and her positive outlook in life. She was polished on the outside, but unconventional and naughty on the inside. But it bothered me that she rolled with the punches too easily, sometimes just rolling over.
Their relationship developed at a very scorching hot but leisurely pace where their physical as well as emotional connection was sinfully sweet and swoony.“Our eyes connect in the mirror and while the molten heat in his eyes is gone, there is warmth that makes me go gooey inside.” ~ Sutton
“Her eyes were so lustrously warm, they caused my own blood to rife painfully hot in response.” ~ Alex
And the sports theme in which the plot was developed, although lightly covered, gave it an exciting edge and made for interesting supporting characters.
I very much enjoyed Sawyer’s style it was straight forward and beautifully written.“She makes me feel too much. Sometimes it’s a kaleidoscope of feeling with patterns that play out across my heart, some round and soothing yet other sharp and angled, causing a small bite of pain.”
This is the first book in the Cold Fury Hockey series and the first Sawyer book I read, and look forward to reading the next book in the series about charming Garret as well as other books from her.
4.5 Hockey-licious stars
Amazon Buy Link ->
http://amzn.to/2iKy9Gf
* I was given an ARC of this book for an honest review from Netgalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
Stalk us on FaceBook * Twitter *
Pinterest Book Teasers *
More reviews -
This book took me by surprise and I was quickly sucked into the story. Alex, the most valuable prick drew me into the book, but Sutton's strength and personality definitely kept me reading! I really enjoyed it ♥
The story is about Alex and Sutton, two people who have to work together for a project that helps kids with drug addictions. Alex have to be a spokesperson for the project because of his bad attitude on the hockey field and off of it. He is not very popular among his teammates and most of the Cold Fury fans hate him, thus the management has decided that he has to clean up his image by doing the project. Sutton is excited to have an opportunity to work in this project and she doesn't mind dealing with Alex and his attitude. They both feel the attraction between them and soon they are more than just business partners.
I really liked that they both came from similar messed-up backgrounds, but each one of them dealt with their past differently. I was crying my eyes out when I read Alex first flashback, and I really didn't have to wonder why he is such an asshole and why he hated hockey. I liked how he changed when Sutton came around, it was really sweet and believable.
I absolutely have girl crush on Sutton she was a fantastic heroine. So understanding and strong and rational. I liked her more than I liked Alex! I loved how she dealt with her past and decided to learn from it and help others who are in similar situations. At first when I heard her first-love story and Brandon came back into picture I thought that she is too understanding, but gladly she quickly came to her senses and cut him out of her life. Alex cut off his hookup girl quickly too which I was happy about. I really liked that I didn't have to read about unnecessary drama that involves jealousy or some shit like that, but the focus was on some more serious issues like abuse and addictions.
In the end Alex made me very angry and I seriously wanted to slap some sense into him, he totally acted like a coward. However he did redeem himself in that Love Actually scene which I love-love-loved ♥
I fall in love with Garret and Glenn too! They were fantastic characters and I really hope next book is about heart-breaker Garret who is smart, hot and hilarious ♥
I was a bit worried that the sport will overshadow the story like it sometimes happens in sport romance books, but it wasn't the case here.
I really enjoyed this book and if Alex would have acted a bit less cowardly and if his dad didn't have the perfect ending it would have been a 5 star read for me. I definitely recommend reading this book! ♥
Release date is in 14th of October, 2014
You can pre-order it
HERE
*ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review* -
4 Surprisingly Good Stars
”I should let her go…right now, right this very minute. But I’m a selfish bastard and I’m not going to do it. I’m going to keep her until I’m ready to destroy her, and then I’ll just add to the pile of guilt I’m already suffering under.”
I should start by saying my expectations for this book were kind of low based on what my goodreads friends were rating this. It seemed most of them liked it but still felt a little “meh” about the book overall. Having read this author and liking her other works, I should have known to give her the benefit of the doubt and read with unencumbered expectations. By twenty percent in I was hooked and I just let myself enjoy the ride.
I want to fucking kiss her so bad, my chest aches, but it’s not the time…it’s not the place. I wonder if it ever will be.
Alex is a phenomenal hockey player with a chip on his shoulder and a hatred for the game due to his asshole father’s abusive ways. Sutton is the dependency counselor he’s been asked to work with in the hopes of cleaning up his public image. They don’t call him Most Valuable Prick for nothing! The first meeting is a bumpy one, mainly because Alex is determined to show her his asshole card right away, but Sutton’s used to dealing with tough to handle people and takes it all in stride. Her ability to deal with an obviously emotionally wounded person was surprisingly one of my favorite Sutton characteristics.
As the story progresses, the two become closer and then eventually romantically involved, and it’s obvious to Sutton that Alex has a shit ton of baggage left over from his abusive childhood and he’s not sure how to deal with it. Rather than forcing the issue, she waits for him to come to her. Some reviews I’ve read seem to categorize this as a weakness, but I simply viewed it as an extension of her personality. With her own abusive past, she seemed to know how fragile folks could be and handled them accordingly. The love between these two was apparent from the moment they got together and it was realistic for Alex to take a little longer to realize the significance of that given the meager amount of affection and love he’d experienced in the past from the very people who were supposed to care about him the most.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. The dialogue between all of the characters flowed naturally (thank you, sweet Jesus!) and the editing (I’ve seen A LOT of bad editing lately!) kicked ass. I didn’t give it 5 stars because at this point it takes a hell of a good book to earn that distinction, but I had a great time reading this one. I can’t ask for much more than that.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
