Oh my, this is going to be painful. Let me start by saying this was a very engaging book by a new-to-me author that sucked me in from the very beginning. Truly, it starts out with a bang and made me want to know what would happen with our heroine, Kristen.

As for the hero, Kellan…loved him. Hot, sexy, caring, funny. He’s the whole package and a professional hockey player to boot! Therein lies most of my problems with this book. It is painfully obvious the author is not a big hockey fan and it disappoints me that she wouldn’t do a bit more research to make sure the hockey part of her storyline at least rang a bit true. I understand suspending disbelief in a fiction story, but it was just too many times. I could pretend that it was okay that Kellan only seemed to have games on weekends and always back to back. I cringed but ignored it when some of the characters talked about The Stanley Cup finals as if it was one game…like the Super Bowl. But to say an NHL team was undefeated at the end of February just shows the author has no clue about the NHL. My beloved Detroit Red Wings hold the record for the best NHL record for their 95-96 season and they even had 20 games they didn’t win! That being said, if you know nothing about hockey or professional sports you will most likely love this story.

It really does pain me to give this book 3 stars. In so many ways it was spectacular. Engaging, fast paced, suspenseful, sexy, and fun. I really was only going to knock it down to a 4 star or 3.5 at the lowest due to the hockey stuff. Then some things came to light that made me think Kristen’s friends are either lackadaisical in their protection of her or the stupidest cops/FBI agents in the world. I was truly pissed off that such a great story was being ruined by insufficient research into not only hockey, but how law enforcement works. Again, it didn’t have to be totally true and factual. It did have to be at least somewhat believable though.

So let me recap here. Wonderful concept, fun and exciting story, great connection between Kristen and Kellan. Too many inaccuracies and too much suspension of disbelief for me to really lose myself in the story like I wanted. I will try more from this author with the hopes that if she’s not writing about hockey I’ll love her stories. Or that she learns more about hockey before the next book in this series. Honestly, it is a huge testament to this story that is getting 3 stars when it had so many things that drove me crazy.

5 HARD STICK STARS!!! Wow, is all I can say while I am trying to catch my breath. This book kept me on the edge of my seat with all the action, hot steamy sex, sexy hockey players and awesome characters. Kellan is every girls dream man, hockey player, sweet, fun and super sexy. Kristen is beautiful, sweet, fun and got messed up with the wrong guy. These two come from messed up lives and I loved watching them work through their problems together. L.P. Dover is one of my favorite authors with her fantastic storytelling. I highly recommend this book to all readers. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book from publisher via NetGalley.

4 1/2 Stars! The cover of this book is a little deceiving ... there's a lot more than hockey going on in this book! Kellen is the Captain of his Charlotte hockey team and is tired of the one night stands, he wants more. Kristen is the bartender at the hockey team's favorite hangout. But she has a secret that could not only get her killed, but also her friends. In fact, her best friend Cole was killed because of her. But Kellen won't take no for an answer ... he wants to get to know the "real" Kristen. She agreed to one night ... but he knows that one night will never be enough for either of them.

This book has a lot of twists and turns that you just don't see coming! And the sex scenes are HOT! But the real story is a heartwarming romance that wants to make you believe that everyone has that one true love. I highly recommend this book ... you won't regret it!

I received an ARC copy courtesy of Random House - Loveswept through NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.

What a great story! Captivating from start to finish.

Oh Kristen, man this girl is put through the ringer. She endures so much and never gives up. What a great, strong heroine. And what great characters; you'll fall in love with everyone and laugh at their fun banter and your heart will melt with the heartfelt relationships. This unique story is fun and witty, emotional and suspenseful, complex and gripping.

I enjoyed that this was more than just a love story. I loved the suspense and the emotional aspect, as well as the wit.

An emotionally charged story with great twists and excitement that you won't be able to put down. What a great start to this new series. I'm very much looking forward to the next book. I'm hoping it's Dallas' story!

3.25 – 3.5 STARS

Typically, I’m not a fan of the sports romance genre, especially hockey. But I AM a fan of L.P. Dover, so I wanted to give this one a try. To my personal delight, I needn’t have worried, as this story has very little to do with hockey. In fact, the story started off strong, striking a favorite chord with me in relation to its suspense element and FBI/mafia overtone.

Trying to rebuild her life under a fake identity, Kristen meets Kellan Carter—a pro ice hockey player— while she's tending bar. Reluctantly, Kristen agrees to a date with Kellan, and shortly thereafter, sparks begin to fly. It doesn’t take long for Kristen to “reveal all” to Kellan, but there’s a surprising twist to her ultimate revelation.

While overall enjoyable, Kristen and Kellan’s story lacked the intensity with which this book began. Their love story progressed rapidly, and I found it surprising how quickly Kristen opened up to Kellan about her past. In doing so, the suspense element began to wane, and I felt twinges of disappointment. So, while I found “Hard Stick” to be a good, entertaining read, it missed the mark of being a great one.

I loved a few things about this book.
1) The story is not what you think.
2) The plot actually had some great twists and interest other than sex and hockey

I have enjoyed many books by L.P. Dover and this one was a bit of a surprise with the plot. When the cover leads you to assumptions about the content, you can get hung up on that. We are expecting a sports style read, judging from the gorgeous hunk of body going on. This is Not one and I was so happy about that!

This story has a bit of depth and some surprises along the way! Made me enjoy the heck out of this book! That is not to say there is not a lot of sexy heat along the way... oh, there is! But you get so much more with this one.

This is a suspenseful, romantic thriller. Kristen is terrified to leave Mitchell, because he is a jealous controlling jerk. She finally does and she begins to make herself less vulnerable in the future. She won't date because she doesn't trust anyone. But Kellan really likes her so he convinces her to go on one date, and then slowly earns her trust. Unfortunately Mitchell doesn't give up easily either. There are a few twists to the story, which makes it a gripping tale. It's a must add to your TBR list.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. This is my voluntary and honest opinion of it.

L.P. Dover is a new author to me and I have to ask myself why haven't I read any of her other books.
Hard Stick is book 1 in the new Breakaway Series and this is Kellan Carter and Kristen Robinson's story. Kellan is powerhouse enforcer for the Charlotte Strikers Hockey Team, Kristian is the bartender at the bar that the team use and he has crushed on her forever. Kristian agrees to one night with Kellan but will one night be enough , can Kellan get Kristian to trust him not only with her body but with heart as well.....
The cover of this book will have you believing this book is all about Hockey, well Hockey does come into this story but the bulk of this story is about Kristen and her secrets and how Kellan the good guy gets her to trust and love again. I really enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to more in this series

If you are looking for a hockey book - stop, this isn't it. Yes, the hero of the book is a hockey player and we see him in his work element, but this is not a sports romance. This is similar to the books of Ms. Dover's Second Chance series, where the common thread is the professional athlete male lead, but the true story lies elsewhere.
In this case, I would say this is a well written romantic suspense.
Kristen got involved with the wrong man and ended up paying a heavy price for it. A year later, we find her back in North Carolina - in Belmont (if you've read the Second Chance series, this should ring a bell) and fending off the advances of several hockey players while she tends bar.
Team Captain, Kellan, eventually gets a date and....... You don't need me to tell you the rest.
I liked this book and the characters. Kristen and Kellan are both good people that you can't help but root for and like. The secondary cast is awesome and if you are paying attention, you can see hints regarding the stars of future books. There is also a good balance between the suspense and romance elements of the story - and within the romance, there is a balance between the sexy times and actual relationship building.
Overall, this is a solid start to a new series and an enjoyable book. I see similarities between this and the Second Chance series, but it doesn't feel like a repeat of those books. I am looking forward to seeing where the Breakaway series goes.

He carries a big stick. And he’s not afraid to use it.

Ain't that the truth!!!! Oh boy, absolute best use of a hockey stick ever. It really got my blood pumping. But enough about my blood... let's talk about Hard Stick.

I didn't read the blurb because I saw who the author was. I said "gimme, gimme, gimme" and Naughty Book Blog complied. (Thanks Heather!) I have a huge love for L.P.'s MMA fighters which transitioned into a love for Jason and Aylee and well...next thing you know, I'm Armed and Dangerous. It's safe to say, I'm a fan. But I was confused in the first few chapters because I didn't read the blurb. FYI, reading the blurb will alleviate any forehead lines and unnecessary eye brow scrunching. Meh, too late for me.

Back to the task at hand, as a connoisseur of L.P. Dover books, I had no trouble offering up my time to lick covers and read pages. (Don't tell me you wouldn't consider licking the cover. You, my friend, are lying.) So I was pleasantly surprised by the twist of the tale but equally heartbroken by the catalyst. Yes, I cried. No, I am not ashamed. Maybe I'm still upset. 🙅

Heartbreak aside it moved quickly. I swear I just startew when I finished it but then I noticed the clock. I like it keeps moving. it's a great way to start the series off with a bang. I am leaning towards B being the next story. But if he isn't, don't tell me- I will leave it a surprise by not reading the blurb. My only complaint and it's teeny tiny is I didn't get my chance with the stick. L.P. I really think writing me in and giving me the quirky weirdo neighbor will work. Just make sure I get stick time! (smirking gleefully)

So here's what you missed in my rambling:

- drama and an exit
- working in a bar surrounded by hot horny hockey players
- possible attraction but, yeah, honey ain't interested...
- well not really interested...
- no, not at all
- what time is our date?

You had to know. The book end right there. No date, nothing...
Okay, I'm teasing. But you knew I don't give spoilers so what are you waiting for, one click it now. While we wait for L.P. to write me in, you have plenty of time to catch up on her other reads. Please promise to message me what you think of the twins. I will be waiting.

reviewed for Naughty Book Blog

On the ice, I’m Kellan Carter, powerhouse enforcer for the Charlotte Strikers. Off the ice, I’m just a regular guy. The last thing I want is to get mobbed by a bunch of groupies who are only after me for my fame and money. My ideal woman knows how to enjoy a little good, clean fun—and maybe some not-so-clean fun too. That’s the kind of girl I’d never let go.

When Kristen Robinson, the gorgeous, down-to-earth bartender I’ve been crushing on, agrees to let me take her out, I’m thrilled. We have an amazing night together, culminating in the most electrifying kiss of my life—and that’s it. Kristen tells me we can’t see each other again, but I know that kiss meant as much to her as it did to me. What I don’t know is that Kristen has a dangerous secret. . . .

I’ve proved to Kristen that she can trust me with her body and her heart. But when her past comes back to haunt her, I need to prove that she can trust me with her life. And I might have to get my hands dirty after all.

Kristen Robinson was in a relationship with a controlling asshole. When she finds out that he had a hand in the death of her best friend she knows it’s time to get out. The problem is that he can find her anywhere. She enlists the help of a friend who have relatives that work with the FBI. They get her new papers and hide her. Kristen meets Kellan Carter because she is a bartender at the bar that him and his fellow ice hockey teammates go to. They’re constantly asking Kristen out but she always declines. She doesn’t want anyone else wrapped up in her mess.
When the FBI decides to fake Kristen’s death she feels like a weight has been lifted from her shoulders. She actually accepts Kellan when he asks her out and that’s pretty much all she wrote. They are incredibly happy together until Kristen’s past finds her once again.

I think I’m in the majority when I say that when I picked up this book I thought it was a hockey player romance. Ok, it is that but mostly it’s about Kristen and her issues with her ex-boyfriend. Yes, Kellan and Kristen get their romance and it’s very sweet but quite frankly Kellan could have had any job and the story wouldn’t have changed too much. There was very little hockey involved and it definitely wasn’t the focus of the book.

Once Kristen’s death is faked she really lets herself breathe and Kellan is there to date her. They are really quite cute together and I loved that they were so perfect for each other. After everything that Kristen had gone through she needed someone who cared about her. Their romance was kind of a blow to the head for Kellan as it was unexpected but he didn’t question his luck and I loved that.

The end of the story was a bit much in the drama department but it worked. I was happy that Kellan and Kristen got their HEA after everything that happened.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

This will post as a guest review on Book Binge.
bookbinge.com

Hard Stick is the first in the Breakaway Series. I went into this thinking it was a sports romance/rom-com. What you really get is a romantic suspense with a guy who just so happens to play hockey. Honestly, even the suspense part was a little far-fetched. It just didn't play well for me. I can say that the hero, Kellan, is an awesome guy - sweet, considerate, wants to make the girl happy and safe. As far as book boyfriends go, he hits the mark. For the rest, it just didn't cut if for me.

I went into this book thinking it would be a hockey romance and while one of the main characters is a hockey player there was very little reference to hockey at all other then that he was a player on a team.

The beginning of this book was definitely interesting and sucked me in it was filled with drama instantly, heartbreak and suspense. I didn't quite feel the connection between to two main characters and found things went way to fast specifically when it came to Kirsten opening u p to him about her past on their first date. In my mind I thought WOAH too soon you barely know the guy.

Unfortunately I didn't quite connect with this story particularly with the Kristen and Kellen. I did love the elements of danger and some of the suspense.

2.5 Stars

The writing in this book wasn’t enjoyable to me. The story was there, the suspense was there, the characters were all likable, and the romance was predictable. I can’t exactly put my finger on what didn’t work for me. Overall, I liked it, it was ok. But so much seemed to be missing and it kept pulling me from the story as I read.

I liked this book but I will say first for people that this story is very little to do with hockey and more to do with the lead female in the story. Kristen is with a man who is older and when she finds out from her friend that he is not going to leave his wife she thinks it will be easy to walk away. Not because he is one of those men who is very controlling. When her friend ends up dead she needs to leave town but she also needs to fake her death. She ends up in Carolina working in a bar. After a year she is finally feeling safe and decides to go out on a date with one of the local hockey players. Turns out Kellan Carter the captain of the team is over joyed that she finally agreed to a date. He also knows that something is definitely wrong because she does not like to have her picture taken along with some other things that are strange for him. Though she goes to some of his hockey games the story comes full circle back to her when the man comes back into the picture to make their life unbearable. There are some twists and turns that add to this story, but I found this to be more of a mystery with some hockey thrown in. for me that was not a problem but it might be for some people. Overall I liked the characters and it was a good story.

I enjoyed this one! I'm not sure the cover or title really do the story justice. Don't get me wrong that's what grabbed my attention first but this isn't really a hockey story. The MC Kellan is a hockey player but the story centers more around the struggles Kristen is dealing with and the romance that blossoms between Kellan and Kristen. He just happens to be a hockey player. The story does have a nice element of suspense with a couple of twists to the story that keeps things interesting. The resolution to the issues was slightly anticlimactic but not bad enough to turn me off the story. Overall the story is good, the writing is well done, and I really enjoyed these characters so it was a pleasurable read for me. I would definitely recommend it.

I've been looking forward to this new series by L.P Dover and honestly it didn't disappoint. As it completely drew me in from the very start and it stayed that way throughout. So much so I couldn't put it down. Although it's not your typical Hockey Romance, but then again this is L.P Dover and theirs always more to her books than you initially expect and this one really is no different.

3 stars- This had a lot going for it and the cover as handsome as the man was... was not the right focus for readers. For one would think there was a Hockey story happening- It was a Hockey background instead.
The main story was good- woman needing a new life- dangerous ex- FBI dangerous... so new identity etc... and the man of Hockey fame decides he is wanting more from this gal.
Sweet moments, suspence

Wow! What a ride! This is my first book from this author and let me tell you, it wasn’t what I expected and that's a good thing! Once again the saying is true, “Do not judge a book by its cover”. I asked for this book because I tend to love "sports romance" novels, but this book is not about JUST hockey, (in fact there is minimal to do with hockey at all), it is a true romance with a beautiful love story. it's so much more. I was amazed by how hooked I was right from the first page and I found that I couldn’t put it down.

Kristen Robinson was forced to leave her life back in Boston because of her psycho obsessive ex-boyfriend. After a fatal incident, she had to change her identity in order to save her life. Now a year with her new life, she has found herself missing her past life, especially her job as an interior designer, a job she loved and was very good at it. Now, as a bartender, she’s trying to build a new life, but she hesitates on trusting (thanks to her past) and on building new relationships and finding new friends. She is afraid of losing everyone she cares about...again..., until Kellan Carter, the captain of the Charlotte Striker hockey team comes into her life.

Kellan Carter loves hockey. He's the Captain of his team, the Charlotte Striker's. Up until this point, he has achieved everything he wanted from life, but he wasn’t good at relationships, of course he’s had his “quota” of women (come on he has a HARD STICK *wink*) but he was never interested in settling down, until he meets the sexy bartender that refused his advances. He’s very interesting in her and he won’t stop until the beautiful Kristen accepts to have one date with him.

Kristen is not interested in having a relationship. She is more worried and focused on keeping in the shadows, as to not draw attention to herself because that could result in her ex finding her. So she barely notices the men that flirt with her, but she really wants to give it a try and date Kellan. He seems to be a good guy and there is no harm in just one date.

There is no way that Kellan will have just one date with her. He knows she's hiding something, but he needs to earn her trust to figure out why she's holding back. He needs to figure out what happened in her past that is preventing her from moving forward, with him.

I really loved these two characters! I felt very sorry for how things worked out for Kristen. She really deserved a happy ending and Kellan was the perfect guy for her! He's very protective with her, caring and willing to risk his own life for her. They had a lot of chemistry and I loved the way things ended for them. Loved the storyline, the plot was very developed with some suspense, drama and of course romance, the exact amount to make this book good and interesting.
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Review to be posted on the release day

4.5 mindblown stars

I've been a fan of LP Dover since k ran across her Gloves Off series. Each of her books held such intriguing, captivating, and easy to love characters. Hard Stick is no different in that aspect.

Kristen gets herself in one he'll of a sticky situation and it forces her to run.

Kallen, sexy as sin hockey player, isn't the image he portrays to the world.

The two share an undeniable attraction and from there it seems to all be sunshine and daisies… Or is it?

Dover had me on the edge of my seat. I guessed at a few things, but for the most part, I find myself wondering, anxious to know what would happen. Desperate to know it's ending.
Dover didn't disappoint with all the passion, love, sexiness, crazy suspense she delivered in this story.

One Click Romance (A Book Blog) highly recommends this book