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Vancouver Orcas #2
Game Changer
It’s Blair Brawsiski’s ride or die year. After a decade in the AHL, if he doesn’t get called up to the NHL this season, it’s time to hang up his skates and focus on other things. But between a second job and family priorities, his attention isn’t where it should be, and his dreams of making it to the big leagues are dwindling by the day.
Hiring a personal assistant to help out with day-to-day stuff? Probably the smartest move Blair’s made in a while.
But when that PA turns out to be an assertive baker who’s exactly Blair’s type? Blair can’t help but wish those dexterous hands would knead something other than pastry dough. Namely, him.
Charlie Shore needs extra income. Desperately. With his expenses about to go up, it’s find a second job or get evicted. Getting hired as Blair’s PA is perfect: flexible hours, decent wages, and a scorching hot professional hockey player who’s willing to let him use his gorgeous kitchen for his baked goods.
Too bad that hockey player is exactly Charlie’s type. Too bad Charlie knows better than to date his new boss…
Hiring a personal assistant to help out with day-to-day stuff? Probably the smartest move Blair’s made in a while.
But when that PA turns out to be an assertive baker who’s exactly Blair’s type? Blair can’t help but wish those dexterous hands would knead something other than pastry dough. Namely, him.
Charlie Shore needs extra income. Desperately. With his expenses about to go up, it’s find a second job or get evicted. Getting hired as Blair’s PA is perfect: flexible hours, decent wages, and a scorching hot professional hockey player who’s willing to let him use his gorgeous kitchen for his baked goods.
Too bad that hockey player is exactly Charlie’s type. Too bad Charlie knows better than to date his new boss…
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 18, 2023
48 people are currently reading
394 people want to read
About the author
Amy Aislin
38 books913 followersAmy's lived with her head in the clouds since she first picked up a book as a child, and being fluent in two languages means she's read a lot of books! She first picked up a pen on a rainy day in fourth grade when her class had to stay inside for recess. Tales of treasure hunts with her classmates eventually morphed into love stories between men, and she's been writing ever since. She writes evenings and weekends—or whenever she isn't at her full-time day job saving the planet at Canada's largest environmental non-profit.
An unapologetic introvert, Amy reads too much and socializes too little, with no regrets. She loves connecting with readers. Join her Facebook Group to stay up-to-date on upcoming releases and for access to early teasers, find her on Instagram and Twitter, or sign up for her infrequent newsletter here: http://bit.ly/AmyAislinNewsletter
An unapologetic introvert, Amy reads too much and socializes too little, with no regrets. She loves connecting with readers. Join her Facebook Group to stay up-to-date on upcoming releases and for access to early teasers, find her on Instagram and Twitter, or sign up for her infrequent newsletter here: http://bit.ly/AmyAislinNewsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
August 17, 2023
Really enjoyed this! I now have a craving for cake thanks to Charlie's cake jars, and I don't even like cake 😂
Excited for Dorian's story next, and I still want a Jesse Melnik story!
Excited for Dorian's story next, and I still want a Jesse Melnik story!
June 28, 2023
This is the first book I have read by this author and I really enjoyed it. It can absolutely be read as a standalone and I don’t feel like I missed anything by not reading the stories about the side characters who appear in this book. I will definitely be on the lookout for future books by this author.
Blair and Charlie were great characters who complemented the other perfectly. They both had some issues with helping. Blair with helping others too much to the detriment of his own life and Charlie not letting others in to help causing him stress! By the end of the book they both learned a better balance and it was great to see!
This book is written by a Canadian and set in Canada and as a fellow Canadian I was so happy about that. There aren’t too many books set in Canada that I’ve read so it’s always fun to read them. I loved all the different references like pennies no longer being around and the Mirvish theatre in Toronto (I’ve been there!!!), it was so much fun!
A couple other things I really liked about this book was their version of dirty talk, I thought it was hilarious and sexy and so them all at the same time! Loved the Legally Blond reference. I also really appreciated that Blair’s coming out was not a part of the story. He is already out and there is no issues with teammates or anything.
This is a very low-angst romance with some spice and it was a fun, cute read. I absolutely recommend if you’re looking for a sports romance!
Blair and Charlie were great characters who complemented the other perfectly. They both had some issues with helping. Blair with helping others too much to the detriment of his own life and Charlie not letting others in to help causing him stress! By the end of the book they both learned a better balance and it was great to see!
This book is written by a Canadian and set in Canada and as a fellow Canadian I was so happy about that. There aren’t too many books set in Canada that I’ve read so it’s always fun to read them. I loved all the different references like pennies no longer being around and the Mirvish theatre in Toronto (I’ve been there!!!), it was so much fun!
A couple other things I really liked about this book was their version of dirty talk, I thought it was hilarious and sexy and so them all at the same time! Loved the Legally Blond reference. I also really appreciated that Blair’s coming out was not a part of the story. He is already out and there is no issues with teammates or anything.
This is a very low-angst romance with some spice and it was a fun, cute read. I absolutely recommend if you’re looking for a sports romance!
July 19, 2023
This is the second book of the Vancouver Orcas series and I just loved it as much as the first one. I enjoy everything that Amy writes and love all of her stories, but some books get a special place in my heart and this is one of those.
Blair is an ice hockey player trying to make it to an NHL team. He plays hard, but because he has such a big heart he takes up on everything that comes his way. His family is very important to him and he doesn't know how to say "no". Thanks to his Coach, Blair meets Charlie and hires him as his PA. Charlie is a sweet guy who loves to bake and wants to make a career out of it, but he's struggling with his finances. Working for Blair will help him pay off some of his debts.
They felt attracted to each other from the first time they met because they are exactly the other's type. I just loved how Blair and Charlie took it slow, even though at first they didn't want to get involved romantically because they were boss and employee. It was inevitable they ended up together. Their relationship was beautiful and so sweet, they talked and communicated, which I'm always thankful for. Amy's MCs always do it, there isn't any miscomunication between them. Blair and Charlie shared their issues and feelings every time something arose. That made them understand each other and be what the other needed. Also, their chemistry was undeniable and their intimate moments were very hot.
This book made me sigh and smile, it also moved me and warmed my heart. It's amazingly well written and it hooked me from the very beginning. Then again, Amy's books are always great, but somehow Charlie and Blair made a special couple, they were both so sweet and easy to relate to.
I'm loving this series very much and I'm now looking forward to the next book. I foresee Dorian's story is going to be an interesting one.
Blair is an ice hockey player trying to make it to an NHL team. He plays hard, but because he has such a big heart he takes up on everything that comes his way. His family is very important to him and he doesn't know how to say "no". Thanks to his Coach, Blair meets Charlie and hires him as his PA. Charlie is a sweet guy who loves to bake and wants to make a career out of it, but he's struggling with his finances. Working for Blair will help him pay off some of his debts.
They felt attracted to each other from the first time they met because they are exactly the other's type. I just loved how Blair and Charlie took it slow, even though at first they didn't want to get involved romantically because they were boss and employee. It was inevitable they ended up together. Their relationship was beautiful and so sweet, they talked and communicated, which I'm always thankful for. Amy's MCs always do it, there isn't any miscomunication between them. Blair and Charlie shared their issues and feelings every time something arose. That made them understand each other and be what the other needed. Also, their chemistry was undeniable and their intimate moments were very hot.
This book made me sigh and smile, it also moved me and warmed my heart. It's amazingly well written and it hooked me from the very beginning. Then again, Amy's books are always great, but somehow Charlie and Blair made a special couple, they were both so sweet and easy to relate to.
I'm loving this series very much and I'm now looking forward to the next book. I foresee Dorian's story is going to be an interesting one.
July 3, 2023
3.5 stars rounded to 4
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Game Changer is the second standalone in the Vancouver Orcas series by Amy Aislin.
Blair has been playing in the AHL for almost a decade and still dreams of playing in an NHL game but it's hard to focus on his hockey skills while helping out at his parent's deli, helping his sister with his niece, and working his side job as a freelance graphic designer. He needs a PA to help him manage his time better and that's where Charlie comes in. Charlie is the baker for the NHL team but dreams for more but all he can focus on is getting out of the extreme debt he's found himself in, so he jumps at the PA job. Quickly a little crush on his boss becomes more when said boss, Blair, fully returns those feelings. Will Charlie risk his much-needed second income for a chance at love.
"You're magic, Charlie," he whispered. "Don't ever let anyone make you feel differently."
Amy Aislin's romances are always low angst, low drama, mature characters, sweetness, and heart. What makes her stories' a winner for me are the characters and unfortunately I wasn't wowed by Blair, he was just a bit too over the place and had no boundaries when it came to his family. Charlie though was a sweetheart. I loved his joy of baking and his relationships with his dad and his cousins. His insecurities and fears of being left were disheartening. The two were sweet together with a touch of steam.
Game Changer is a mm sport romance between an AHL hockey player and his PA with low drama, low steam, baking, hockey, jar cakes, apology sandwiches, cameos, family, and a sweet happy ending.
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Game Changer is the second standalone in the Vancouver Orcas series by Amy Aislin.
Blair has been playing in the AHL for almost a decade and still dreams of playing in an NHL game but it's hard to focus on his hockey skills while helping out at his parent's deli, helping his sister with his niece, and working his side job as a freelance graphic designer. He needs a PA to help him manage his time better and that's where Charlie comes in. Charlie is the baker for the NHL team but dreams for more but all he can focus on is getting out of the extreme debt he's found himself in, so he jumps at the PA job. Quickly a little crush on his boss becomes more when said boss, Blair, fully returns those feelings. Will Charlie risk his much-needed second income for a chance at love.
"You're magic, Charlie," he whispered. "Don't ever let anyone make you feel differently."
Amy Aislin's romances are always low angst, low drama, mature characters, sweetness, and heart. What makes her stories' a winner for me are the characters and unfortunately I wasn't wowed by Blair, he was just a bit too over the place and had no boundaries when it came to his family. Charlie though was a sweetheart. I loved his joy of baking and his relationships with his dad and his cousins. His insecurities and fears of being left were disheartening. The two were sweet together with a touch of steam.
Game Changer is a mm sport romance between an AHL hockey player and his PA with low drama, low steam, baking, hockey, jar cakes, apology sandwiches, cameos, family, and a sweet happy ending.
July 25, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
This is a low-angst, sweet, hockey romance that has two amazingly awesome main characters. Blair’s a big old pushover, always pitching in without complaint, even if it’s to his detriment. He’s got big dreams, but a deeper sense of loyalty to his family, who are only now recognizing how much they take him for granted. Charlie is adorable, and so giving of himself. He’s never cross, even when he has valid reasons to be, and he’s so selfless in his day-to-day it’s easy to see how he fell into debt. His aversion to dating his boss takes a bit of time to get over, but Blair is finally able to woo him when they both consider that his assistant gig is temporary.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
This is a low-angst, sweet, hockey romance that has two amazingly awesome main characters. Blair’s a big old pushover, always pitching in without complaint, even if it’s to his detriment. He’s got big dreams, but a deeper sense of loyalty to his family, who are only now recognizing how much they take him for granted. Charlie is adorable, and so giving of himself. He’s never cross, even when he has valid reasons to be, and he’s so selfless in his day-to-day it’s easy to see how he fell into debt. His aversion to dating his boss takes a bit of time to get over, but Blair is finally able to woo him when they both consider that his assistant gig is temporary.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
September 13, 2023
This felt like 1000 other MM romances I’ve read. It wasn’t terrible but the plot along with the characters and their troubles came across as overused and stale. And there was SO much talk about food. Cake jars and pastries and grocery shopping and gobs and gobs and gobs of takeout.
IDK I just feel so disillusioned with gay romance lately. It’s so rare to come across one that is fresh and smartly written. Sigh.
IDK I just feel so disillusioned with gay romance lately. It’s so rare to come across one that is fresh and smartly written. Sigh.
May 7, 2025
I adored this ☺️
I loved that the crux of the problem in this book wasn't about the relationship but more about how Charlie and Blair dealt with their own weakness as a person.
Charlie had problem of accepting help - especially when it was about money. Blair had issues of saying "no" to others, especially his own family. Sure in the beginning Blair stood Charlie up (again, family issues). But I thought Blair did a good grovel afterwards. After they got together, they were really, REALLY good!
Charlie was a sweetheart! I loved that he got his success with his cake jars product. Blair was also a good guy and I was happy when he finally tasted the play in the NHL. The only thing that I wasn't really happy with was Blair never really told his family that he couldn't be there for them all the time. I wish he did. His family stepped back mostly because of themselves when Blair had knee problems. I felt that Blair never did have a chance to tell them "No".
All right, here I go for Dorian's book now.
I loved that the crux of the problem in this book wasn't about the relationship but more about how Charlie and Blair dealt with their own weakness as a person.
Charlie had problem of accepting help - especially when it was about money. Blair had issues of saying "no" to others, especially his own family. Sure in the beginning Blair stood Charlie up (again, family issues). But I thought Blair did a good grovel afterwards. After they got together, they were really, REALLY good!
Charlie was a sweetheart! I loved that he got his success with his cake jars product. Blair was also a good guy and I was happy when he finally tasted the play in the NHL. The only thing that I wasn't really happy with was Blair never really told his family that he couldn't be there for them all the time. I wish he did. His family stepped back mostly because of themselves when Blair had knee problems. I felt that Blair never did have a chance to tell them "No".
All right, here I go for Dorian's book now.
August 2, 2025
There was surprisingly few hockey in this hockey romance.
And the romance didn't really touch me.
I can overlook a lot of things because it's fiction *duh* but:
10 years playing for an AHL team and still hoping to make it to the NHL???
Being there for your family or being used by said family and sacrificing your NHL carrier are two totally different things.
I hate if trauma is the only character trait the mc seems to have (and how the abandonment issue was resolved within a couple of sentences and his mom showing up)
I get that authors love to tease you with characters from their other books/series showing up but good lord I get so confused 🤔
Don't think I'll continue this series.
And the romance didn't really touch me.
I can overlook a lot of things because it's fiction *duh* but:
10 years playing for an AHL team and still hoping to make it to the NHL???
Being there for your family or being used by said family and sacrificing your NHL carrier are two totally different things.
I hate if trauma is the only character trait the mc seems to have (and how the abandonment issue was resolved within a couple of sentences and his mom showing up)
I get that authors love to tease you with characters from their other books/series showing up but good lord I get so confused 🤔
Don't think I'll continue this series.
July 21, 2023
I loved this book, just as I loved the first in this new series.
I love ice hockey books and was very curious about this MC, Charlie who makes the cakes and breads for the Vancouver hockey team and whether he would finally get the second job he so desperately needs. Blair is a sweet guy who is always available to help the family, not being able to make time for the essentials, eating. Coach Matt gets him a chef/PA, his cousin Charlie.
I won't tell you anything more, but I recommend this book, just as I recommended the first in this series.
Can’t wait for the next book
I love ice hockey books and was very curious about this MC, Charlie who makes the cakes and breads for the Vancouver hockey team and whether he would finally get the second job he so desperately needs. Blair is a sweet guy who is always available to help the family, not being able to make time for the essentials, eating. Coach Matt gets him a chef/PA, his cousin Charlie.
I won't tell you anything more, but I recommend this book, just as I recommended the first in this series.
Can’t wait for the next book
July 24, 2023
This was sweet!
Charlie and Blair were adorable together.
I enjoyed it a lot.
Charlie and Blair were adorable together.
I enjoyed it a lot.
March 31, 2024
Needing another source of income to help him get ahead now that his dad is moving out of their shared apartment, Charlie Shore takes a position as Blair Brawsiki’s PA. Blair is running himself ragged to help everyone in his life…except himself. After hiring Charlie he starts to step back and tries to realize his dream of playing in the NHL.
This was cute. I liked both guys. But also there wasn’t really any swoon? Like I like the guys and enjoyed the book but don’t think of them as a great romance couple. I’ll keep reading this series, obviously, but it was very hockey light and that was a bummer.
This was cute. I liked both guys. But also there wasn’t really any swoon? Like I like the guys and enjoyed the book but don’t think of them as a great romance couple. I’ll keep reading this series, obviously, but it was very hockey light and that was a bummer.
July 4, 2023
We’re back with the Vancouver Orcas, this time with Blair and Charlie - following their journey from boss/employee to friends to so much more than that.
Blair Brawsiski is a D-man on the Vancouver Orcas AHL team who hasn’t been called up to play in the NHL after all of his seasons on the team and is coming to the end of his self-imposed timeline to make that happen. He’s a great hockey player but he’s overcommitted in his personal life, helping his parents at their sandwich shop when they need it and his sister when she needs help with his niece. Blair has a huge heart and cares so much about making sure everyone around him is taken care of that he often forgets to take care of himself, leading him to hire an assistant to help him do just that.
Charlie Shore is the baker for the Vancouver NHL team, the cousin of the Orcas head coach and Blair Brawsiski’s new personal assistant. He’s struggling to make ends meet after taking on all the bills from his apartment and dealing with the mountain of debt he was left with after his post-college business venture failed. Charlie has a lot of emotional baggage and a fear of forming lasting relationship/commitment after his mother left him and his father when he was 12 and his business partner left after getting their business started. But Charlie is incredibly sweet, a little snarky and not afraid to stand up for himself, all of the things that made me love him even more!
These two dance around each other for a while, using their boss/employee relationship as a reason to keep their distance, but their chemistry and attraction can’t be avoided for very long. Even though Charlie is working for Blair, they find themselves spending more time together, getting to know each other and helping each other grow into more mature versions of themselves. They support each other in a really sweet way and when things turn to romance instead of just friendship, that sweetness and support is amplified in a way that was really adorable to read.
Loved seeing Coach Shore and Pierce, Emery and Felix and Dorian more in this story and can’t wait to see where things go with Dorian’s HEA next!
Blair Brawsiski is a D-man on the Vancouver Orcas AHL team who hasn’t been called up to play in the NHL after all of his seasons on the team and is coming to the end of his self-imposed timeline to make that happen. He’s a great hockey player but he’s overcommitted in his personal life, helping his parents at their sandwich shop when they need it and his sister when she needs help with his niece. Blair has a huge heart and cares so much about making sure everyone around him is taken care of that he often forgets to take care of himself, leading him to hire an assistant to help him do just that.
Charlie Shore is the baker for the Vancouver NHL team, the cousin of the Orcas head coach and Blair Brawsiski’s new personal assistant. He’s struggling to make ends meet after taking on all the bills from his apartment and dealing with the mountain of debt he was left with after his post-college business venture failed. Charlie has a lot of emotional baggage and a fear of forming lasting relationship/commitment after his mother left him and his father when he was 12 and his business partner left after getting their business started. But Charlie is incredibly sweet, a little snarky and not afraid to stand up for himself, all of the things that made me love him even more!
These two dance around each other for a while, using their boss/employee relationship as a reason to keep their distance, but their chemistry and attraction can’t be avoided for very long. Even though Charlie is working for Blair, they find themselves spending more time together, getting to know each other and helping each other grow into more mature versions of themselves. They support each other in a really sweet way and when things turn to romance instead of just friendship, that sweetness and support is amplified in a way that was really adorable to read.
Loved seeing Coach Shore and Pierce, Emery and Felix and Dorian more in this story and can’t wait to see where things go with Dorian’s HEA next!
July 19, 2023
"The future wasn't a guarantee, not for anyone. In the here and now they loved each other. "
They are Happy Tears - I swear!!
Don't pass this one up - If you are looking for lots of marshmallow goey moments, smexy as sin romance, light angst, family, both blood and chosen, lots of happy tears, and the cutest HEA
THIS IS IT!
About:
This is the second standalone in the Vancouver Orcas series.
It is a high heat slow-burn romance that builds on the spark of attraction between Blair and Charlie.
Blair is on the verge of giving up on his dream of making it to the NHL. He is burning the candle at both ends and in the middle - But there just isn't enough time in his day and his goal is slowly slipping away.
As a last-ditch effort, he hires Charlie as his personal assistant.
Blair finds himself drawn to the sweet and assertive baker.
However, Charlie is determined to keep their relationship professional. Past experiences have left him a bit relationship shy.
But neither can deny the spark between them.
"Maybe we will"
" But Maybe we won't"
"Want to see where it leads together?"
I laughed
Got blurry eyed
Sighed
These two fit together seamlessly
This was a heartwarming and uplifting read.
It was about taking chances, finding your way again, and never giving up on your dreams
Easy to read as a standalone. However, I promise when you are done with Charlie and Blair's story you will want to spend time with the rest of the gang as well
They are Happy Tears - I swear!!
Don't pass this one up - If you are looking for lots of marshmallow goey moments, smexy as sin romance, light angst, family, both blood and chosen, lots of happy tears, and the cutest HEA
THIS IS IT!
About:
This is the second standalone in the Vancouver Orcas series.
It is a high heat slow-burn romance that builds on the spark of attraction between Blair and Charlie.
Blair is on the verge of giving up on his dream of making it to the NHL. He is burning the candle at both ends and in the middle - But there just isn't enough time in his day and his goal is slowly slipping away.
As a last-ditch effort, he hires Charlie as his personal assistant.
Blair finds himself drawn to the sweet and assertive baker.
However, Charlie is determined to keep their relationship professional. Past experiences have left him a bit relationship shy.
But neither can deny the spark between them.
"Maybe we will"
" But Maybe we won't"
"Want to see where it leads together?"
I laughed
Got blurry eyed
Sighed
These two fit together seamlessly
This was a heartwarming and uplifting read.
It was about taking chances, finding your way again, and never giving up on your dreams
Easy to read as a standalone. However, I promise when you are done with Charlie and Blair's story you will want to spend time with the rest of the gang as well
July 19, 2023
Game Changer is the second book in the Vencouver Orcas series. In this book, we get to see the story of Blair and Charlie, who both appeared in the first book.
If you want light-hearted fun that will make you smile and just feel good, this one's for you!
I love the premise of the book. Charlie, desperately needing a second job, applies to be Blair's PA to make his life easier so he can focus more on hockey. And obviously, they fall for each other.
Honestly, the story is very low angst and a kind of slice-of-life sweetness. Blair and Charlie are both loyal, sweet, and just bottomline good people, and they are so good for each other.
Blair's tardiness due to his need to always help out his family leaves no time for himself and seeing him with Charlie, finally taking something was wholesome. Charlie is a lonely baker, and Blair's attention feeds all his cravings for love.
As I said, the storyline itself is nothing special, but the writing style and the wonderful characters make this book a comfort to read. I smiled so much, even laughed sometimes, and just overall enjoyed the ride on Blair and Charlie's journey to love.
If you're familiar with Amy's other books, you will definitely see some familiar faces to round out the homey feel of the book.
If you love a good sports romance with heaps of baking and kind characters, this one is for you!
If you want light-hearted fun that will make you smile and just feel good, this one's for you!
I love the premise of the book. Charlie, desperately needing a second job, applies to be Blair's PA to make his life easier so he can focus more on hockey. And obviously, they fall for each other.
Honestly, the story is very low angst and a kind of slice-of-life sweetness. Blair and Charlie are both loyal, sweet, and just bottomline good people, and they are so good for each other.
Blair's tardiness due to his need to always help out his family leaves no time for himself and seeing him with Charlie, finally taking something was wholesome. Charlie is a lonely baker, and Blair's attention feeds all his cravings for love.
As I said, the storyline itself is nothing special, but the writing style and the wonderful characters make this book a comfort to read. I smiled so much, even laughed sometimes, and just overall enjoyed the ride on Blair and Charlie's journey to love.
If you're familiar with Amy's other books, you will definitely see some familiar faces to round out the homey feel of the book.
If you love a good sports romance with heaps of baking and kind characters, this one is for you!
February 9, 2024
Blair is an AHL hockey player, who is burning the candle on both sides due to family commitments. Plus the man can't say no to family. He hardly has a second to himself, let alone extra time to work on improving his hockey skills. At the recommendation he hires Coach Matt Stanton's cousin, Charlie, to be his PA.
We've met Charlie before in the Sticks Side series as well as this one. Charlie has a part time job as the pastry chef for the NHL team, but because of financial difficulties, needs a flexible 2nd job. Enter his cousin Matt, Blair's coach.
And the two of them just click.
Can I just say that I adored both of these guys? Blair is such a giving individual, who is open and honest. I love how he cares for Charlie, being there for him in whatever way he can. Charlie is equally caring, but he does have some past emotional difficulties he needed to work through. I loved how Blair helped Charlie realize how many people cared about him. What I really appreciated was their communication. Yes, it took a while to build the trust and feeling of safety Charlie needed, but other than that, little or no miscommunication between the two of them.
I really love this series just as much as the Stick Side one. We got to know more about Dorian, Charlie and Matt's other cousin. He definitely marches to his own drummer. I can't wait to see what is in store for him in Game On.
We've met Charlie before in the Sticks Side series as well as this one. Charlie has a part time job as the pastry chef for the NHL team, but because of financial difficulties, needs a flexible 2nd job. Enter his cousin Matt, Blair's coach.
And the two of them just click.
Can I just say that I adored both of these guys? Blair is such a giving individual, who is open and honest. I love how he cares for Charlie, being there for him in whatever way he can. Charlie is equally caring, but he does have some past emotional difficulties he needed to work through. I loved how Blair helped Charlie realize how many people cared about him. What I really appreciated was their communication. Yes, it took a while to build the trust and feeling of safety Charlie needed, but other than that, little or no miscommunication between the two of them.
I really love this series just as much as the Stick Side one. We got to know more about Dorian, Charlie and Matt's other cousin. He definitely marches to his own drummer. I can't wait to see what is in store for him in Game On.
July 17, 2023
I loved this sweet hockey romance with characters that felt so genuine. I went in expecting an engaging sports romance and I got so much more.. humour, affection, MCs who had real baggage holding them back that they inspired each other to put down and go after what they really want. I loved Blair and Charlie’s story of falling in love.
Expect:
* Slow burn
* Boss Employee
* Beautiful found family
* Lots of delicious food
* Opposites attract
* Hockey romance
Blair, who is trying to make his final play for his chance in the NHL, is such a good guy, always putting everyone else first, so scattered in trying to get his own ducks in a row, try and build his own life. Charlie, who’s trying for a second time to get his bakery business off the ground, has been burnt and abandoned and is still a warm affectionate hopeful person. These two have chemistry off the bat, are super supportive of each others dreams and it was lovely watching them navigate their way towards an HEA. Also I loved all the supporting characters in this book, specially Charlie’s dad and also I can’t wait for Dorian’s story.
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Swoon: ♥️♥️♥️.5
Steam: 🔥🔥
Angst: ❤️🩹❤️🩹❤️🩹
Humour: 🤣🤣🤣
Expect:
* Slow burn
* Boss Employee
* Beautiful found family
* Lots of delicious food
* Opposites attract
* Hockey romance
Blair, who is trying to make his final play for his chance in the NHL, is such a good guy, always putting everyone else first, so scattered in trying to get his own ducks in a row, try and build his own life. Charlie, who’s trying for a second time to get his bakery business off the ground, has been burnt and abandoned and is still a warm affectionate hopeful person. These two have chemistry off the bat, are super supportive of each others dreams and it was lovely watching them navigate their way towards an HEA. Also I loved all the supporting characters in this book, specially Charlie’s dad and also I can’t wait for Dorian’s story.
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Swoon: ♥️♥️♥️.5
Steam: 🔥🔥
Angst: ❤️🩹❤️🩹❤️🩹
Humour: 🤣🤣🤣
July 17, 2023
I’ve been looking forward to Charlie’s story since he first appeared in Star of the Game (Stick Side #6), where he’s a side character with a big heart who really shines. What begins as an opposites attract romance slowly becomes the sweetest, most heartfelt connection in which Charlie & Blair find common ground in all the ways that matter. I literally could not stop smiling as it all comes together and they begin to carve out their perfect happily ever after.
Charlie’s the nicest, most likable guy, but behind his smile he’s hiding all his fears and worries. Included in those are fears for his future and his love life, because past experience has told him love doesn’t always last. Not to mention he’s constantly comparing himself to others and coming up short. It’s sad how he feels so much pressure to succeed, because he’s surrounded by people who love and support him. If only he could find a way to lean on them and let them in.
Blair’s definitely the opposite; he’s there for everyone. He gives and gives of himself in a way that compromises his own hopes and dreams. Ultimately, he’s an optimist, but life has set him up to trust things will work out. His fatal flaw is believing he’s indebted to his family which means he’s unable to say no to their calls for help.
This whole story is fairly low angst, although that didn’t stop me from waiting for it to ramp up. It’s refreshing how well they communicate, so thank you, Amy Aislin, for giving these men the power to express themselves!
Finally, there’s a feel-good moment toward the end I want to mention. It takes place as Charlie prepares for something pivotal, and it’s literally everything. It’s written in a way that makes you feel as if you’re there, experiencing their emotions, their dynamic and just everything happening at the same time. It fills you with so much love and affection, something Amy Aislin does very well and a reason I always find her stories so satisfying.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
Charlie’s the nicest, most likable guy, but behind his smile he’s hiding all his fears and worries. Included in those are fears for his future and his love life, because past experience has told him love doesn’t always last. Not to mention he’s constantly comparing himself to others and coming up short. It’s sad how he feels so much pressure to succeed, because he’s surrounded by people who love and support him. If only he could find a way to lean on them and let them in.
Blair’s definitely the opposite; he’s there for everyone. He gives and gives of himself in a way that compromises his own hopes and dreams. Ultimately, he’s an optimist, but life has set him up to trust things will work out. His fatal flaw is believing he’s indebted to his family which means he’s unable to say no to their calls for help.
This whole story is fairly low angst, although that didn’t stop me from waiting for it to ramp up. It’s refreshing how well they communicate, so thank you, Amy Aislin, for giving these men the power to express themselves!
Finally, there’s a feel-good moment toward the end I want to mention. It takes place as Charlie prepares for something pivotal, and it’s literally everything. It’s written in a way that makes you feel as if you’re there, experiencing their emotions, their dynamic and just everything happening at the same time. It fills you with so much love and affection, something Amy Aislin does very well and a reason I always find her stories so satisfying.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
July 18, 2023
Four and a half stars of sweetness personified. Charlie and Blair were so cute as they stumbled into love that started off as a work relationship turned into a friendship turned in a romance. Great storyline with low steam in a cute setting with awesome secondary characters. I cannot wait to see what comes next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2023
"You're magic ... don't ever let anyone make you feel differently."
GAME CHANGER was a super sweet story. Two opposites finding each other and finding themselves, and falling in love!
Charlie is chasing his dream, working himself to the bone trying to start his bakery business and in doing so meets Blair, an AHL hockey player unable to say no to his family and desperately in need of a personal assistant.
Charlie, who refuses help, and Blair, who never wants to stop helping anyone ever seem like a wild match, but other than the glaring differences, they are pretty similar.
These two were fun to watch fall in love. Charlie deserves the best of everything. His whole "if you need them, they leave" & "conflict drives people away" thing is heartbreaking to watch because it mirrors real-life thoughts that can gut you.
Blair is so used to trying to do everything for his family that he forgets to live. I did find his sister saying something similar ironic because she was a repeat offender.
All in all, I liked this book a LOT, and I really look forward to Dorian's story. I wonder who it will be!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I definitely recommend this series, which is a spinoff of the Stick Side series, another series I recommend. Especially if you like hockey.
GAME CHANGER was a super sweet story. Two opposites finding each other and finding themselves, and falling in love!
Charlie is chasing his dream, working himself to the bone trying to start his bakery business and in doing so meets Blair, an AHL hockey player unable to say no to his family and desperately in need of a personal assistant.
Charlie, who refuses help, and Blair, who never wants to stop helping anyone ever seem like a wild match, but other than the glaring differences, they are pretty similar.
These two were fun to watch fall in love. Charlie deserves the best of everything. His whole "if you need them, they leave" & "conflict drives people away" thing is heartbreaking to watch because it mirrors real-life thoughts that can gut you.
Blair is so used to trying to do everything for his family that he forgets to live. I did find his sister saying something similar ironic because she was a repeat offender.
All in all, I liked this book a LOT, and I really look forward to Dorian's story. I wonder who it will be!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I definitely recommend this series, which is a spinoff of the Stick Side series, another series I recommend. Especially if you like hockey.
July 18, 2023
Charlie & Blair
This is a great follow-up to book one. I enjoyed following Charlie and Blair as they went from boss & employee to so much more. There's a bit of angst but only a little. It all leads to a great HEA.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
This is a great follow-up to book one. I enjoyed following Charlie and Blair as they went from boss & employee to so much more. There's a bit of angst but only a little. It all leads to a great HEA.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
November 17, 2023
Audiobook Review
I really enjoyed Game Changer, I am getting used to this narrator after struggling a bit in book one, I thought he did a better job with book 2.
The two MCs, Charlie and Blair were great characters and I loved seeing them get together.
Blair annoyed me with the way he would help out his family to the detriment of his own needs and I really wanted him to say no and start taking time for the things that were important in his career and personal life sooner than he did.
Charlie was such a sunshiny character and I really enjoyed getting to know him.
I'm looking forward to getting to know the other cousins in future books.
I really enjoyed Game Changer, I am getting used to this narrator after struggling a bit in book one, I thought he did a better job with book 2.
The two MCs, Charlie and Blair were great characters and I loved seeing them get together.
Blair annoyed me with the way he would help out his family to the detriment of his own needs and I really wanted him to say no and start taking time for the things that were important in his career and personal life sooner than he did.
Charlie was such a sunshiny character and I really enjoyed getting to know him.
I'm looking forward to getting to know the other cousins in future books.
July 18, 2023
This is a low heat, high feelings romance. Blair and Charlie are both at a turning point in their carrier and personal life. Their meeting is the right push to help them make the necessary changes to reach their professional goals and gain the right balance at home to succeed. You will find quite a few side characters who are the MCs of other books by this author - the overall background world will engulf the reader also because the struggles faced by Charlie and Blair are very relatable and we all wish to have the support by so many friends and family members. Highly recommended!
November 24, 2023
Gorgeous. A sweet low angst romance.
I loved Blair, he's such a sweetheart. Far too nice for his own good, though. He really needed to grow a backbone where his family was concerned.
Can definitely be read as a standalone. I haven't
read book 2 & that didn't affect my enjoyment of this book. Although the couple from book one are in this so I am curious about their story.
Recommended.
Listened to audio and enjoyed it just as much the second time.
I loved Blair, he's such a sweetheart. Far too nice for his own good, though. He really needed to grow a backbone where his family was concerned.
Can definitely be read as a standalone. I haven't
read book 2 & that didn't affect my enjoyment of this book. Although the couple from book one are in this so I am curious about their story.
Recommended.
Listened to audio and enjoyed it just as much the second time.
July 26, 2023
Amy's stories make a pleasant change from the sex-filler sports stories we mostly get nowadays. Happy that Charlie got his HEA with Blair, and Dorian will get his 🤞 in Game On.
April 21, 2024
2.5✨ Unfortunately this one ended up a DNF for me. It is exactly what it says it is: a gay hockey romance. My issue is that the writing never picks up. There is little sense of urgency or need between the two leads, and when there is so much gay hockey romance content available, this book just finds itself sliding down the list. This book is not necessarily bad, it just is boring.
March 11, 2024
reminders: toque, stars in vancouver *snicker*, "erringly" *side-eyes*, 10kg flour "giant" lol
April 14, 2024
Another great hockey pair.
July 21, 2023
Check out our full post for GAME CHANGER on Wicked Reads, which includes an excerpt.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the second book in this series and is a really good read. I would recommend that you read them in order, so that you get the full dynamics of the team, but you could read this first and go back later.
This is such an interesting take on the career of a hockey player – the reality that so many excellent but not extraordinary players must experience. Blair has not broken out of the AHL into the NHL and he knows that he has to set a limit on his plans - and a decade seems to be a reasonable one. Until he now finds himself in that last year and he is juggling helping his parents at their business, his sister with her baby, and... well, something has to give.
Charlie is suggested as a possible PA to help Blair so that he can make sure he doesn't miss a practice again. This is a brilliant suggestion, although the attraction that the two of them feel is more than a little inconvenient! This sets up a delicious, fun, sexy, and engaging romance which I thoroughly enjoyed.
I have to say that the cake jars were so vividly described that they made me hungry just reading about them – such a fun side plot with Charlie clearly being an excellent baker! I am already looking forward to the next installment!
Shannan – ☆☆☆☆
GAME CHANGER is the second book in the Vancouver Orcas series. It can be read as a standalone, but I personally feel it reads better if you read in the order the author intended to get the full dynamic and structure of the team.
Blair Brawsiski has played for the AHL for 10 years. He made himself a promise that in ten seasons if he didn't get that call to play in the NHL, he'd hang up his skates and put his fall back plan – his graphic design degree – to use. Blair is the one his parents depend on when someone calls out of their deli, the one his sister depends on to pick up and watch his niece. Somewhere with practices, games, and always being there for everyone else, he's juggling a lot of things and dropping things that he shouldn't. His coach suggests him getting a PA to help with basic things so he can focus on what's important... hockey. When he interviews Charlie (who happens to be the coach's cousin), he finds him very attractive and exactly what he needs in his life.
Charlie made some bad decisions regarding his finances and has accrued a large debt. When his cousin, Matt, tells him about a player needing a PA, he thinks it would be a perfect solution for his money problems. He hates cooking but if he's getting paid to do it, it won't be a problem. Finding Blair so attractive and having a crush on your boss is not what Charlie should be focusing on, but he can't help himself working slowly hoping to talk to the man.
I love this series. It is written so well, and the characters are all so loveable you can't help but root for them and their happily ever afters. Charlie and Blair, even though they seem to be in different places in their lives, help each other to focus on their goals for themselves and each other.
I can't wait for what's next for Dorian!!
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
July 19, 2023
Blair is a seasoned AHL player who is beginning to think his dreams of getting called up to the NHL might never happen if he doesn't get his ish together and focus on hockey. Charlie is looking for any job that will help him stay afloat while he tries to pay off his debts and make rent. So when Blair interviews Charlie to be his PA and generally keep his chaotic life from falling apart, it seems like a perfect match for both. Maybe a bit too perfect, since this is supposed to be a professional relationship, and they both just want any excuse to spend more time together. They may seem like an unlikely match, with opposite struggles: Blair can't help but want to be available to everyone in his family who needs a helping hand, and Charlie is so fiercely trying to be independent that he struggles to ask for help when he really needs it. But if they can just figure out how to balance each other out they might find this relationship is a complete Game Changer.
I’ve read a lot of Aislin’s hockey-centered books, and I usually enjoy them. This one was well-written, and overall enjoyable, and I love the can-con, but it just didn’t click with me like some of her previous books have, like the Stick Side series. I definitely got a kick out of seeing all the special guest appearances by characters from Aislin’s previous series, and I think even if you haven’t read her previous books, or even the first book in this series, you can still enjoy this one as a standalone.
Spoilers ahead:
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My only issue with this book is that the struggles of the two MCs seem like they’re pretty easily solved with just a bit of communication. Blair only has to talk to his sister about feeling overwhelmed by all the things he does for his family, and suddenly she’s no longer calling him to help with her kid, and his dad is no longer begging him to pick up emergency shifts at the family deli. No yelling, no hard feelings, just “oops, sorry for taking advantage of you all this time! We only did it because you let us!” and problem solved. Charlie is struggling with money and doesn’t tell his dad he can’t afford to live on his own, but just lets him move out. And then he has a fit when his millionaire cousin/best friend pays off all his debts without telling him. And I kept waiting for them to realize that if Blair has no time to help his parents at the deli maybe Charlie wouldn’t mind working there and getting paid for that instead of all the weird vibes of getting paid by your boyfriend to meal prep and buy groceries?
Overall an enjoyable read and another great addition to the hockey romance genre on the part of Amy Aislin.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
I’ve read a lot of Aislin’s hockey-centered books, and I usually enjoy them. This one was well-written, and overall enjoyable, and I love the can-con, but it just didn’t click with me like some of her previous books have, like the Stick Side series. I definitely got a kick out of seeing all the special guest appearances by characters from Aislin’s previous series, and I think even if you haven’t read her previous books, or even the first book in this series, you can still enjoy this one as a standalone.
Spoilers ahead:
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*
*
*
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My only issue with this book is that the struggles of the two MCs seem like they’re pretty easily solved with just a bit of communication. Blair only has to talk to his sister about feeling overwhelmed by all the things he does for his family, and suddenly she’s no longer calling him to help with her kid, and his dad is no longer begging him to pick up emergency shifts at the family deli. No yelling, no hard feelings, just “oops, sorry for taking advantage of you all this time! We only did it because you let us!” and problem solved. Charlie is struggling with money and doesn’t tell his dad he can’t afford to live on his own, but just lets him move out. And then he has a fit when his millionaire cousin/best friend pays off all his debts without telling him. And I kept waiting for them to realize that if Blair has no time to help his parents at the deli maybe Charlie wouldn’t mind working there and getting paid for that instead of all the weird vibes of getting paid by your boyfriend to meal prep and buy groceries?
Overall an enjoyable read and another great addition to the hockey romance genre on the part of Amy Aislin.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
July 18, 2023
Game Changer is an adorable hockey romance between AHL player Blair and his chef/baker, Charlie.
Blair's been constantly moving for years. As the oldest sibling he's felt obligated to step in wherever he's needed and over the years he's been needed a lot. Add in the fast-pace of a professional hockey schedule and juggling his fledgling design career, and Blair's personal needs get lost in the mix. So, when his coach suggests he hire a PA to help, he's all for it. And when that PA happens to be Charlie, he's doubly invested.
Charlie has his own troubles though. With a mountain of debt and new expenses being added every day, his job as an NHL team's baker just isn't cutting it anymore. So, he signs on to be Blair's PA even though he's already flaked on him once. But the more he gets to know Blair the more his feelings for the man develop. And when he finds out it's not as unrequited as he thinks, both of them might just have to find time for a little love in their lives.
This book is the sweetest romance I've read in a long time. I mean, with a baker MC you expect some sweetness, but these two are truly adorable with their cavity-inducing amounts of cuteness. You can see how into each other they are from their meeting. Like the first word Blair even thinks of when he sees Charlie is "effervescent." And that feeling only grows the more time they spend around each other.
Apart from the fact that this book had me smiling the whole time, I also really liked the way these two balanced each other out. Blair's been on the go for a long time, always ready with a helping hand even if it's detrimental to his own needs. And Charlie won't lean on those around him or accept help even when he so clearly needs it. But around each other they find the space and security to to find what they need, whether that's slowing down to enjoy being in the moment or leaning on those around you without the fear of being left behind. That growth from beginning to end was a joy to experience.
Also on my favorites list is the secondary characters. Dorian in particular is one I've been intrigued by for a while now and the little peeks we got into his life just made me really excited for his story! And I also enjoyed the cameos from Felix, Emery and everyone else. Seeing these characters again just made the story feel so familiar and comforting.
This whole story was so fun and I enjoyed every second of it! If you're looking for a cute story that will make you smile and swoon, then look no further because Game Changer is it!
Blair's been constantly moving for years. As the oldest sibling he's felt obligated to step in wherever he's needed and over the years he's been needed a lot. Add in the fast-pace of a professional hockey schedule and juggling his fledgling design career, and Blair's personal needs get lost in the mix. So, when his coach suggests he hire a PA to help, he's all for it. And when that PA happens to be Charlie, he's doubly invested.
Charlie has his own troubles though. With a mountain of debt and new expenses being added every day, his job as an NHL team's baker just isn't cutting it anymore. So, he signs on to be Blair's PA even though he's already flaked on him once. But the more he gets to know Blair the more his feelings for the man develop. And when he finds out it's not as unrequited as he thinks, both of them might just have to find time for a little love in their lives.
This book is the sweetest romance I've read in a long time. I mean, with a baker MC you expect some sweetness, but these two are truly adorable with their cavity-inducing amounts of cuteness. You can see how into each other they are from their meeting. Like the first word Blair even thinks of when he sees Charlie is "effervescent." And that feeling only grows the more time they spend around each other.
Apart from the fact that this book had me smiling the whole time, I also really liked the way these two balanced each other out. Blair's been on the go for a long time, always ready with a helping hand even if it's detrimental to his own needs. And Charlie won't lean on those around him or accept help even when he so clearly needs it. But around each other they find the space and security to to find what they need, whether that's slowing down to enjoy being in the moment or leaning on those around you without the fear of being left behind. That growth from beginning to end was a joy to experience.
Also on my favorites list is the secondary characters. Dorian in particular is one I've been intrigued by for a while now and the little peeks we got into his life just made me really excited for his story! And I also enjoyed the cameos from Felix, Emery and everyone else. Seeing these characters again just made the story feel so familiar and comforting.
This whole story was so fun and I enjoyed every second of it! If you're looking for a cute story that will make you smile and swoon, then look no further because Game Changer is it!
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