I thought all hockey players were supposed to be missing half their teeth and have bent, broken noses and stitches and bruises everywhere.
Catherine Gayle
On The Fly
Format:
ebook
4/5/2020: Updated review from Portland Storm: The First Period (box set of Books 1, 2, 2.5, & 3) on Audible.
Publisher’s Synopsis:
Being sidelined for far too long due to injuries, Portland Storm player Brenden “Soupy” Campbell is ready to take his career to the next level and make his new position on the team stick. After he meets the general manager’s cute new assistant, Brenden knows he’s right where he’s supposed to be.
Determined to change things up On the Fly and establish a future for herself and her children, Rachel Shaw jumps at the opportunity to work for the Storm. She’s not going to let anything—or anyone—get in her way, especially not a sexy and overly cocky hockey star.
But when Brenden pulls out all the stops and turns on the charm, Rachel refuses to make the same mistake twice. Now, it’s up to Brenden to cement his spot—both on the team and in Rachel’s heart.
Point of view:
1st person. Alternating perspectives by chapter.
Rellim’s Thoughts:
This is another slow burn as Brenden (Soupy) tries to win over wary single-mom Rachel. Another book that deals with sexual assault (this time of a minor) in a realistic way without being overly graphic. Though listeners sensitive to that subject may still find it to be too much as it’s impact is a major part of the story line.
Gayle introduces more Portland Storm players and we get updates and regular interaction from previously introduced players. I’ll admit, all I know about hockey is from romance novels – but her descriptions seem thorough while still engaging.
I’m looking forward to Babs & Katie’s novella, Taking a Shot.
Narration:
Angel Clark’s narration lacked the finesse she showed in the first book. The differentiation between character voices was minimal. Also, Rachel is described as having a Southern (Texas) accent and Clark only used it if the accent was immediately mentioned in the text or vaguely in sentences that used “y’all” or talked about Rachel’s time living there. She missed the mark to bring some individuality to these characters.
Trigger Warnings (possible spoilers):
Sexual assault of a minor by a parent. It’s not described in detail, but it’s a central theme to the book and how Rachel and her daughter, Maddie, react to everyone they meet.
My Favorite Quotes
I thought all hockey players were supposed to be missing half their teeth and have bent, broken noses and stitches and bruises everywhere. – On The Fly by @Catherine_Gayle #Audiobook narrated by Angel Clark. #SportsRomance #Hockey
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the Portland Storm organization. It’s not just a team. We take care of our own.” – On The Fly by @Catherine_Gayle #Audiobook narrated by Angel Clark. #SportsRomance #Hockey
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