What do you think?
Rate this book
The Baltimore Banners #5
Break Away
Jean-Pierre "JP" Larocque is a speed demon for the Baltimore Banners. He lives for speed off the ice, too, playing fast and loose with cars and women. But is he really a player, or is his carefree exterior nothing more than a show, hiding a lonely man filled with regret as he struggles to forget the only woman who mattered?
Emily Poole thought she knew what she wanted in life but everything changed five years ago. Now she exists day by day, helping care for her niece after her sister’s bitter divorce. It may not be how she envisioned her life, but she's happy. Or so she thinks, until JP re-enters her life. Now she realizes there’s a lot more she wants, including a second chance with JP.
Can these two lost souls finally find forgiveness and Break Away to the future? Or will the shared tragedy of their past tear them apart for good this time?
Emily Poole thought she knew what she wanted in life but everything changed five years ago. Now she exists day by day, helping care for her niece after her sister’s bitter divorce. It may not be how she envisioned her life, but she's happy. Or so she thinks, until JP re-enters her life. Now she realizes there’s a lot more she wants, including a second chance with JP.
Can these two lost souls finally find forgiveness and Break Away to the future? Or will the shared tragedy of their past tear them apart for good this time?
227 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 29, 2015
275 people are currently reading
888 people want to read
About the author
Lisa B. Kamps
65 books798 followersLisa B. Kamps is a USA Today Bestselling Author who writes steamy romance with real-life characters and relatable stories that evoke deep emotion. She likes her men hard, her bed soft, her coffee strong, her whiskey neat, and her wine chilled...and when it comes to sports, hockey is the only thing that matters!
Lisa currently lives in Maryland with her husband and two sons (who are mostly sorta-kinda out of the house), one very spoiled Border Collie, two cats with major attitude, several head of cattle, and entirely too many chickens to count. When she's not busy writing or chasing animals, she's cheering loudly for her favorite hockey team, the Washington Capitals--or going through withdrawal and waiting for October to roll back around!
For more information, please visit: www.LisaBKamps.com
Lisa currently lives in Maryland with her husband and two sons (who are mostly sorta-kinda out of the house), one very spoiled Border Collie, two cats with major attitude, several head of cattle, and entirely too many chickens to count. When she's not busy writing or chasing animals, she's cheering loudly for her favorite hockey team, the Washington Capitals--or going through withdrawal and waiting for October to roll back around!
For more information, please visit: www.LisaBKamps.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
Want to read
April 11, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (4/11/2018)!💝
December 18, 2020
I first read the prequel 4.5 First Shot At Love which is basically a novella of how JP and Emily met and started their relationship. That was a cute read, with JP knowing she was his angel the moment they met. With her falling pregnant at the end of that book, you wonder what could’ve gone wrong. He was hypnotized with her and a HEA was heading up. Or so it seems. Because their main book, number 5, was a disaster.
What happened? I literally still ask myself that question after finishing this book. What the hell happened that they were 5 years apart? They meet again after all this time and he became an obsessive stalker that wouldn’t leave her alone. Why after all these years? She had a miscarriage, interpreted his reaction the wrong way, walks out and doesn’t see him again for 5 years. Again, what happened here? How can that loving guy from book 4.5 that became an obsessive stalker in book 5 not gone after her? I don’t understand and it literally makes no sense. He doesn’t chase her and goes on with his life. And that means ploughing his way through all the puck bunnies for more than 4 years. And off course she’s celibate in all these years. I hate that trope! Then all of a sudden she comes back in his life and he can’t stay away from her. Does this many any sense to you?
AGAIN WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED HERE AND WTF DID I JUST READ??? I kept reading because I was hoping for some explanation why he did the things he did, but none came. I found Emily weak for getting back together with him so soon. She didn’t make it easy for him, but she did took him back. After everything that happened, after he never laid eyes on her again, after knowing all the rumors about his playboy (which I call manwhore) ways? Then he just has to charm his French accent and you’re a puddle at his feet? I don’t get it. I’m sorry for this rant, but this book is such crap after you read the prequel. It makes no sense at all.
What happened? I literally still ask myself that question after finishing this book. What the hell happened that they were 5 years apart? They meet again after all this time and he became an obsessive stalker that wouldn’t leave her alone. Why after all these years? She had a miscarriage, interpreted his reaction the wrong way, walks out and doesn’t see him again for 5 years. Again, what happened here? How can that loving guy from book 4.5 that became an obsessive stalker in book 5 not gone after her? I don’t understand and it literally makes no sense. He doesn’t chase her and goes on with his life. And that means ploughing his way through all the puck bunnies for more than 4 years. And off course she’s celibate in all these years. I hate that trope! Then all of a sudden she comes back in his life and he can’t stay away from her. Does this many any sense to you?
AGAIN WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED HERE AND WTF DID I JUST READ??? I kept reading because I was hoping for some explanation why he did the things he did, but none came. I found Emily weak for getting back together with him so soon. She didn’t make it easy for him, but she did took him back. After everything that happened, after he never laid eyes on her again, after knowing all the rumors about his playboy (which I call manwhore) ways? Then he just has to charm his French accent and you’re a puddle at his feet? I don’t get it. I’m sorry for this rant, but this book is such crap after you read the prequel. It makes no sense at all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2016
Break Away is the fifth book in the Baltimore Banners series. The Baltimore Banners are a hockey team. This is the first book I have read by this author and I just jumped right in this series with the fifth book. Break Away is a story about a couple who went through a tragic event five years earlier and their relationship fell apart. Emily Poole runs into her old flame, JP Larocque at her niece's hockey game. JP after seeing Emily all this time wants to rekindle their relationship, but Emily wants nothing more than to forget their painful past.
I struggled with this book a little. The story is hyper focused on what happened between JP and Emily five years before. The tragic event shapes the whole storyline and ultimately overshadows everything else. For example, the author never really goes into JP's past, like his family history. It would have been nice to understand how JP became a hockey player, is his family still in France, does he have any brothers and sisters, etc. You get the picture. We know a little bit more about Emily, but again everything centers around how her life changed after the big tragic event.
The story starts out a little slowly and about half way through, I was getting more into the story. I liked Emily and JP's personalities, that of which I knew about them. At first Emily was a little off putting to me because she kept pushing JP away so much, but then she really started to change as a character. She decides to stop living in the past and to move forward with her life. I really started to enjoy the book when she comes to that realization.
I don't know if it would have made a difference to read the other books in the series first. I am not sure if I would have gotten more back story on JP and Emily in the other books. For me this was an okay read.
I struggled with this book a little. The story is hyper focused on what happened between JP and Emily five years before. The tragic event shapes the whole storyline and ultimately overshadows everything else. For example, the author never really goes into JP's past, like his family history. It would have been nice to understand how JP became a hockey player, is his family still in France, does he have any brothers and sisters, etc. You get the picture. We know a little bit more about Emily, but again everything centers around how her life changed after the big tragic event.
The story starts out a little slowly and about half way through, I was getting more into the story. I liked Emily and JP's personalities, that of which I knew about them. At first Emily was a little off putting to me because she kept pushing JP away so much, but then she really started to change as a character. She decides to stop living in the past and to move forward with her life. I really started to enjoy the book when she comes to that realization.
I don't know if it would have made a difference to read the other books in the series first. I am not sure if I would have gotten more back story on JP and Emily in the other books. For me this was an okay read.
June 26, 2017
Break Away (The Baltimore Banners #5) by Lisa B. Kamps Lisa B. Kamps scores with Break Away the fifth book in The Baltimore Banners Series. This contemporary sports romance is perfect for new adult and adult audiences. After five years, NHL star Jean-Pierre Larocque comes back in contact with Emily Poole, the only woman he was ever serious about. A tragedy destroyed their relationship. Regretting how they parted, JP pursues Emily in hopes of a second chance.
Lisa B. Kamps does a fantastic job with both her plot and character development in Break Away. I love that JP remembers small details about Emily. It is clear he never stopped loving her. I felt Emily was initially a little too hard on JP about what happened five years ago. It seemed like she never gave him time to get over his shock. Both characters grew tremendously throughout the story. Kamps does an admirable job capturing all the emotions the characters underwent. Emily’s niece, Taylor, is adorable. It is commendable that Emily helps her sister out so much with taking care of her niece. The plot was believable and thought provoking. It has numerous unexpected surprises that kept me engaged and not wanting to put the book down.
Complimentary copy provided via manicreaders.com in exchange for an honest review.
Lisa B. Kamps does a fantastic job with both her plot and character development in Break Away. I love that JP remembers small details about Emily. It is clear he never stopped loving her. I felt Emily was initially a little too hard on JP about what happened five years ago. It seemed like she never gave him time to get over his shock. Both characters grew tremendously throughout the story. Kamps does an admirable job capturing all the emotions the characters underwent. Emily’s niece, Taylor, is adorable. It is commendable that Emily helps her sister out so much with taking care of her niece. The plot was believable and thought provoking. It has numerous unexpected surprises that kept me engaged and not wanting to put the book down.
Complimentary copy provided via manicreaders.com in exchange for an honest review.
April 19, 2018
This is the first book I have read from this author and she blew me away. I absolutely love sport romances but this talented author exceeded all my expectations. This is the fifth book in the Baltimore Banners series. You can read this book as a stand-alone and you would be fine but after reading this story I now want to read more about the other characters. I was drawn to these characters right from the start. I devoured this amazing book in only a day and half.
Emily and JP were so much in love but a tragedy tears them apart. Emily is still trying to get over her breakup from JP. She is now helping her newly divorced sister out. Emily takes care of her beautiful niece because her sister works a lot. One day she is helping her niece practice her hockey moves and then she sees him. Emily doesn’t want want nothing to do with him. She doesn’t want to feel the pain she felt five years ago. JP starts to help her niece with her hockey moves and Emily starts to build a friendship with him again. Emily quickly realizes that she might still have feelings for this hot shot hockey player. Will Emily be able to break away from the past and give JP another chance with her heart or will they split for good?
I absolutely loved this book. The storyline has it all romance, drama, healing, and forgiveness. You will fall in love with these characters right from the start. Emily is very sweet but she can also bring the sass. She gave JP a run for his money. Emily would do anything for her sweet niece and sister. JP is a hot hockey player but he has a good head on his shoulders. He doesn’t take anything for granted. JP will make you swoon when he speaks in French. These characters have some steamy scenes that will make your temperature rise. This book had me laughing from the banter that JP and Emily gave to each other. The ending will have you in tears. I can’t wait to see what this talented author will write next. I hope to see Emily’s sister get her happily ever after.
Emily and JP were so much in love but a tragedy tears them apart. Emily is still trying to get over her breakup from JP. She is now helping her newly divorced sister out. Emily takes care of her beautiful niece because her sister works a lot. One day she is helping her niece practice her hockey moves and then she sees him. Emily doesn’t want want nothing to do with him. She doesn’t want to feel the pain she felt five years ago. JP starts to help her niece with her hockey moves and Emily starts to build a friendship with him again. Emily quickly realizes that she might still have feelings for this hot shot hockey player. Will Emily be able to break away from the past and give JP another chance with her heart or will they split for good?
I absolutely loved this book. The storyline has it all romance, drama, healing, and forgiveness. You will fall in love with these characters right from the start. Emily is very sweet but she can also bring the sass. She gave JP a run for his money. Emily would do anything for her sweet niece and sister. JP is a hot hockey player but he has a good head on his shoulders. He doesn’t take anything for granted. JP will make you swoon when he speaks in French. These characters have some steamy scenes that will make your temperature rise. This book had me laughing from the banter that JP and Emily gave to each other. The ending will have you in tears. I can’t wait to see what this talented author will write next. I hope to see Emily’s sister get her happily ever after.
March 29, 2018
Break Away (The Baltimore Banners Book 5) by Lisa B Kamps is the fifth book in her The Baltimore Banners series. This book can be read as a stand-alone but I highly suggest that you read the previous books before this one. This is not the first book I have read by this author but I think her books keep getting better with each one that I read. Her writing skills are such that she pulls you right into the story with ease and keeps you engaged until the end. Her characters are both lovable and connectable. They took me on an emotional roller coaster ride that made me shed a few tears in parts. In this book we get to see JP's story. JP lives for speed, the ice and women. He is living with a past that has made him lonely and left wanting the one woman he has lost. Emily thought that she knew what she wanted with her life then a tragic situation happened five years ago. She know lives day by day and helping her sister take care of her niece. Then he walks back into her life. What will happen when she realizes that feelings for him are still there? Is there a second chance in their future? Can they put the hurt to rest and move forward? I enjoyed both of these characters. They both are hurting but they are both strong headed. JP is determined that he will get her to talk to him, he kind of becomes a stalker. Emily tries telling herself that she needs to stay away from him. You have to read this book to find out what happens with them. The secondary characters are supportive and some of them made me laugh. I can't wait to see who gets their own book next. I highly recommend this book. Find out if fate will allow JP and Emily to have a second chance at love!
April 16, 2018
4 Stars
Break Away is the fifth book in the Baltimore Banners series by Lisa B. Kamps. This is a great second chance/hockey/sports romance. Even though it is the fifth book in the series, it can be read as a standalone without ‘missing’ any vital information. Having said that though, the series as a whole is fantastic, especially if you love sports romance- so well worth the read.
Emily Poole and JP Larocque have had a painful past history together. Circumstances destroyed what they had once had. Five years of trying to move on, pushing painful memories away, and regrets have plagued them ever since. Will a chance encounter be their second chance for happiness- or is their just too much pain for them to ever overcome?
I loved these characters. Their growth and development over the course of the story was wonderful. I loved Taylor, she added a little extra sparkle to this lovely read.
The story has all the emotions, drama, romance and charm that you require for a splendid reading experience.
Another fab read from Ms. Kamps. Looking forward to her next book.
Thank you, Ms. Kamps!
Break Away is the fifth book in the Baltimore Banners series by Lisa B. Kamps. This is a great second chance/hockey/sports romance. Even though it is the fifth book in the series, it can be read as a standalone without ‘missing’ any vital information. Having said that though, the series as a whole is fantastic, especially if you love sports romance- so well worth the read.
Emily Poole and JP Larocque have had a painful past history together. Circumstances destroyed what they had once had. Five years of trying to move on, pushing painful memories away, and regrets have plagued them ever since. Will a chance encounter be their second chance for happiness- or is their just too much pain for them to ever overcome?
I loved these characters. Their growth and development over the course of the story was wonderful. I loved Taylor, she added a little extra sparkle to this lovely read.
The story has all the emotions, drama, romance and charm that you require for a splendid reading experience.
Another fab read from Ms. Kamps. Looking forward to her next book.
Thank you, Ms. Kamps!
April 23, 2018
3.6 points
OK read. Writing is decent and no character is painted as "evil". Just people with flaws and sometimes stupid or downright bad decisions or everyday cowardice.
OK read. Writing is decent and no character is painted as "evil". Just people with flaws and sometimes stupid or downright bad decisions or everyday cowardice.
January 7, 2016
Lisa B. Kamps scores with Break Away the fifth book in The Baltimore Banners Series. This contemporary sports romance is perfect for new adult and adult audiences. After five years, NHL star Jean-Pierre Larocque comes back in contact with Emily Poole, the only woman he was ever serious about. A tragedy destroyed their relationship. Regretting how they parted, JP pursues Emily in hopes of a second chance.
Lisa B. Kamps does a fantastic job with both her plot and character development in Break Away. I love that JP remembers small details about Emily. It is clear he never stopped loving her. I felt Emily was initially a little too hard on JP about what happened five years ago. It seemed like she never gave him time to get over his shock. Both characters grew tremendously throughout the story. Kamps does an admirable job capturing all the emotions the characters underwent. Emily’s niece, Taylor, is adorable. It is commendable that Emily helps her sister out so much with taking care of her niece. The plot was believable and thought provoking. It has numerous unexpected surprises that kept me engaged and not wanting to put the book down.
Complimentary copy provided via manicreaders.com in exchange for an honest review.
Lisa B. Kamps does a fantastic job with both her plot and character development in Break Away. I love that JP remembers small details about Emily. It is clear he never stopped loving her. I felt Emily was initially a little too hard on JP about what happened five years ago. It seemed like she never gave him time to get over his shock. Both characters grew tremendously throughout the story. Kamps does an admirable job capturing all the emotions the characters underwent. Emily’s niece, Taylor, is adorable. It is commendable that Emily helps her sister out so much with taking care of her niece. The plot was believable and thought provoking. It has numerous unexpected surprises that kept me engaged and not wanting to put the book down.
Complimentary copy provided via manicreaders.com in exchange for an honest review.
February 26, 2016
Oh my god I loved this book! It had everything!! I laughed, I cried, I smiled so much. I know I loved book 4 but wow this one is my favorite
April 5, 2018
Break Away by Lisa B. Kamps is the fifth book in her Baltimore Banners series. Although not the first book that I have read by this author this is the first book I have read in this series. As always I would recommend reading the books in order as there is always bits of background information to pick up and the build-up over the series cannot be beaten however this book can easily be read as a standalone like I did.
On the surface, JP has it all. A great job as part of a successful hockey team, money, cars, women. There is nothing he wants for and things couldn’t be any more perfect for him. However, not all is as it seems. Beneath the façade JP is hiding his loneliness and the gap in his life left by a single person. He is desperate to forget the woman who has caused him to feel this way and yet no matter what he does he cannot erase her memory.
Emily had her life mapped out for her. With a specific plan in place she wasn’t ready for things to go awry. And yet that is exactly what happened. Now she is living a life she didn’t expect, trying to make the best of everything. And she thinks she is succeeding until she meets JP again after all these years.
With the reintroduction in each of the other’s lives it highlights everything that they are both missing. However will that be enough for them to move forward and fix these issues? Or will they continue on as they are, despite the fact they know how unhappy they have actually become?
This was a great book to read. I absolutely love sport romance books and this one did not disappoint. I loved how there was much more to JP than you would have thought. And when the two characters crossed paths again I instantly liked their interactions together. This writing style was exactly what I have come to expect from this author and it was refreshing to see it translate to a different series to the one I had read previously. I will definitely be going back to read the rest of this series.
On the surface, JP has it all. A great job as part of a successful hockey team, money, cars, women. There is nothing he wants for and things couldn’t be any more perfect for him. However, not all is as it seems. Beneath the façade JP is hiding his loneliness and the gap in his life left by a single person. He is desperate to forget the woman who has caused him to feel this way and yet no matter what he does he cannot erase her memory.
Emily had her life mapped out for her. With a specific plan in place she wasn’t ready for things to go awry. And yet that is exactly what happened. Now she is living a life she didn’t expect, trying to make the best of everything. And she thinks she is succeeding until she meets JP again after all these years.
With the reintroduction in each of the other’s lives it highlights everything that they are both missing. However will that be enough for them to move forward and fix these issues? Or will they continue on as they are, despite the fact they know how unhappy they have actually become?
This was a great book to read. I absolutely love sport romance books and this one did not disappoint. I loved how there was much more to JP than you would have thought. And when the two characters crossed paths again I instantly liked their interactions together. This writing style was exactly what I have come to expect from this author and it was refreshing to see it translate to a different series to the one I had read previously. I will definitely be going back to read the rest of this series.
December 9, 2017
Having just read First Shot at Love which is a wonderful story about how JP and Emily originally met, I was eager to see how they were doing five years on, which is the setting for this story.
Unfortunately, at the beginning of the story, it is obvious that Emily and JP are no longer together. JP still plays for the Banners but Emily's life has changed. She lives with her sister, Monica and niece, Taylor, often caring for Taylor when Monica is working long hours as a nurse. Taylor is seven years old and on a youth hockey team. Emily is at a practice watching Taylor one day when they inadvertently run into JP. After not seeing one another for five years, JP is shocked to see Emily. JP would like to see Emily again, but Emily is haunted by her past and the way things were left between she and JP. Can they rebuild their relationship? Will Emily be willing to trust her heart to JP again?
While parts of this story are heartbreakingly sad, there is joy too. Taylor is a really fun, cheerful addition to the story and Emily's dedication to her niece is so sweet! JP's hockey teammates/friends are pretty funny too! And JP - he really works hard at showing Emily he can be The One for her. Emily is a little slow to warm up to the idea even when JP makes it so clear that she's it for him...
Do they find their happily ever after? So many steps forward and steps back - but so enjoyable to watch how their (new) story unfolds! Just a wonderfully romantic couple!
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book, however, this is my honest opinion.
Unfortunately, at the beginning of the story, it is obvious that Emily and JP are no longer together. JP still plays for the Banners but Emily's life has changed. She lives with her sister, Monica and niece, Taylor, often caring for Taylor when Monica is working long hours as a nurse. Taylor is seven years old and on a youth hockey team. Emily is at a practice watching Taylor one day when they inadvertently run into JP. After not seeing one another for five years, JP is shocked to see Emily. JP would like to see Emily again, but Emily is haunted by her past and the way things were left between she and JP. Can they rebuild their relationship? Will Emily be willing to trust her heart to JP again?
While parts of this story are heartbreakingly sad, there is joy too. Taylor is a really fun, cheerful addition to the story and Emily's dedication to her niece is so sweet! JP's hockey teammates/friends are pretty funny too! And JP - he really works hard at showing Emily he can be The One for her. Emily is a little slow to warm up to the idea even when JP makes it so clear that she's it for him...
Do they find their happily ever after? So many steps forward and steps back - but so enjoyable to watch how their (new) story unfolds! Just a wonderfully romantic couple!
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book, however, this is my honest opinion.
December 13, 2017
Break Away is book 5 of the Baltimore Banners series by Lisa B Kamps. This is the story of JP and Emily who we first met in First Shot at Love, which is a warm-up (short) story that was included in the Love Happens Anthology but can now be purchased on its own.
‘Emily closed her eyes and took a deep breath then slowly turned. She didn't want to do this, didn't want to acknowledge him, didn't even want to see him.’ - Emily
After reading First Shot at Love, I couldn't wait to read Break Away as I needed to know what happened to JP and Emily who obviously had an incredible chemistry together. From the blurb, it was clear that things hadn't gone to plan after First Shot at Love ended and I wanted to know what had happened to pull this couple apart because they had seemed so strong. Once my questions were answered, I could fully understand why things hadn't worked the first time and I hoped their second shot at love would work out.
I read this book in one go and as with any book by Lisa B Kamps, the reader is taken on an emotional roller-coaster ride and you're left unable to stop thinking about the characters you've just read about. Lisa B Kamps also introduces you to secondary characters that you want to know more about and I'm looking forward to reading Coach's Challenge, which is a novella in this series and is Emily's sister's story. Emily's niece also recently got her own story in Winning Hard, which is book 1 of Lisa B Kamps’ new series called the Chesapeake Blades.
‘Emily closed her eyes and took a deep breath then slowly turned. She didn't want to do this, didn't want to acknowledge him, didn't even want to see him.’ - Emily
After reading First Shot at Love, I couldn't wait to read Break Away as I needed to know what happened to JP and Emily who obviously had an incredible chemistry together. From the blurb, it was clear that things hadn't gone to plan after First Shot at Love ended and I wanted to know what had happened to pull this couple apart because they had seemed so strong. Once my questions were answered, I could fully understand why things hadn't worked the first time and I hoped their second shot at love would work out.
I read this book in one go and as with any book by Lisa B Kamps, the reader is taken on an emotional roller-coaster ride and you're left unable to stop thinking about the characters you've just read about. Lisa B Kamps also introduces you to secondary characters that you want to know more about and I'm looking forward to reading Coach's Challenge, which is a novella in this series and is Emily's sister's story. Emily's niece also recently got her own story in Winning Hard, which is book 1 of Lisa B Kamps’ new series called the Chesapeake Blades.
March 29, 2018
Break Away (The Baltimore Banners Book 5)
By Lisa B. Kamps
5 Stars
Okay, I’ll admit I picked this book because it mentioned Baltimore. I’m from MD originally, so seeing a book about a city in my home state sounded good. Then I read the blurb and I wasn’t that excited. I’m not a big sports fan and reading about hockey would probably have been the LAST book I would have chosen. So, I started the book a little biased. THANK YOU, Lisa Kamps, for proving me wrong! What a great story!
Jean-Pierre aka JP Larocque (oh yeah, I might mention that I also lived in France so his name made me smile) is what I guess most of us would think a “famous sports star” is. I mean, fancy cars…lots of dates…it’s what you would expect. But it’s all a façade. Emily Poole is just existing. She has convinced herself that she is happy with the life she is leading. But when JP and Emily meet again after years apart both must re-evaluate not only their current feelings but all the baggage they carry from their young romance. It’s not an easy task, yet Ms. Kamps does extremely well weaving all this into her story.
There were moments I cried, moments I wanted to yell at JP to stop being such a fool but by the end of this story, Ms. Kamp has me loving the characters and cherishing the struggle they go through to find happiness. Well done Ms. Kamp!! A truly heart-warming, emotional story of love and second chances that will have every reader wanting more.
By Lisa B. Kamps
5 Stars
Okay, I’ll admit I picked this book because it mentioned Baltimore. I’m from MD originally, so seeing a book about a city in my home state sounded good. Then I read the blurb and I wasn’t that excited. I’m not a big sports fan and reading about hockey would probably have been the LAST book I would have chosen. So, I started the book a little biased. THANK YOU, Lisa Kamps, for proving me wrong! What a great story!
Jean-Pierre aka JP Larocque (oh yeah, I might mention that I also lived in France so his name made me smile) is what I guess most of us would think a “famous sports star” is. I mean, fancy cars…lots of dates…it’s what you would expect. But it’s all a façade. Emily Poole is just existing. She has convinced herself that she is happy with the life she is leading. But when JP and Emily meet again after years apart both must re-evaluate not only their current feelings but all the baggage they carry from their young romance. It’s not an easy task, yet Ms. Kamps does extremely well weaving all this into her story.
There were moments I cried, moments I wanted to yell at JP to stop being such a fool but by the end of this story, Ms. Kamp has me loving the characters and cherishing the struggle they go through to find happiness. Well done Ms. Kamp!! A truly heart-warming, emotional story of love and second chances that will have every reader wanting more.
April 19, 2018
a great read about the past being painful. when Emily takes her niece to a hockey game practice, the last person she expects to see is the man from her past, Jean Pierre. trying to concentrate on her family instead of the past, she tries to carry on with her life. but when he sends her tickets to one of his games, she is forced to see him again and remember the painful memories of five years ago. she tries to avoid talking to him when he keeps appearing her life, but it si impossible to ignore her feelings inside. will the pain of the past mend their friendship or break it?
a great read. well developed plot. well developed characters like Emily trying to look after her family despite her struggles through her feelings. her struggles and memories still affecting her was written beautifully and rounded out her character with sympathy. the mystery of what happened five years ago was drawn out to perfection and captivated you to keep reading to discover what happened. I loved the visual detail of the ice hockey game pitches and the glass doors, it was helped by a sense of enjoyment and community in the crowd. the love of the sport for JP and his team was a lovely touch and added passion to the novel. I also loved the curious adventure spirit of Taylor and her childlike nature which was sweet, with the tender love between her and Emily that was beautifully written. overall, a great read and I would give it four stars.
a great read. well developed plot. well developed characters like Emily trying to look after her family despite her struggles through her feelings. her struggles and memories still affecting her was written beautifully and rounded out her character with sympathy. the mystery of what happened five years ago was drawn out to perfection and captivated you to keep reading to discover what happened. I loved the visual detail of the ice hockey game pitches and the glass doors, it was helped by a sense of enjoyment and community in the crowd. the love of the sport for JP and his team was a lovely touch and added passion to the novel. I also loved the curious adventure spirit of Taylor and her childlike nature which was sweet, with the tender love between her and Emily that was beautifully written. overall, a great read and I would give it four stars.
March 29, 2018
Break Away by Lisa B Kamps is the fifth book in her Baltimore Banners series, and can I just say this series keeps getting better and better. Following the story of JP and Emily, it hasn't always been an easy road for them. They were in love years ago, expecting a baby until fate had other plans for them. Its now been five years, and while Emily thinks she is happy with the life she has carved out for herself, when she sees JP again everything she is missing in life comes crashing down on her. JP has an image of a player both on and off the ice, as a man who likes to keep his private life private he wasn't prepared for how he was going to feel seeing Emily again, but the pull that was between them years ago is still there and he can't seem to stay away. When they finally give into each other will the past get in the way of a happy future or will they finally get their happily ever after on and off the ice? Kamps has been a go to author of mine for years, I love her take on sports romance books, keeping them just hot enough to make me want more while romancy enough that they warm the heart. This book is no different. Getting to see the story of JP and Emily was a treat, just like the rest of this series. If you love hockey, sports romances or just Kamps work in general this is definitely one that you need to pick up today!
April 20, 2018
Breakaway by Lisa B Kamps is book five in the Baltimore Banners Series. Though this is book five of the series, it can be read as a standalone. This book was wonderful! When I first started it I didn’t think I would like it as much as I did. I couldn’t put it down! I really felt that the story did a good job of letting you get to know the characters and witness their growth through the story.
JP Larocque on the outside looks calm, cool and collected. He even comes across as a bit of a player. Until one morning, he sees Emily after not seeing her for five years and he realizes, he’s slowly been stepping away from his previous lifestyle. Will he be able to show Emily the regret he feels for what happened between them?
Emily has a good life. He’s finally been able to move on. So she helps her sister take care of her niece and lives her life day to day. That is until she runs into the last person she ever expected to see. Now that she’s seen JP, old feelings of hurt rush to the surface. JP turns up almost everywhere Emily is and she’s beginning to feel the familiar feelings she had toward him before. Can Emily let go of the hurt from the past and create something new with JP or will it be too much to overcome?
This book was great and I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone!
JP Larocque on the outside looks calm, cool and collected. He even comes across as a bit of a player. Until one morning, he sees Emily after not seeing her for five years and he realizes, he’s slowly been stepping away from his previous lifestyle. Will he be able to show Emily the regret he feels for what happened between them?
Emily has a good life. He’s finally been able to move on. So she helps her sister take care of her niece and lives her life day to day. That is until she runs into the last person she ever expected to see. Now that she’s seen JP, old feelings of hurt rush to the surface. JP turns up almost everywhere Emily is and she’s beginning to feel the familiar feelings she had toward him before. Can Emily let go of the hurt from the past and create something new with JP or will it be too much to overcome?
This book was great and I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone!
April 19, 2018
Break Away is the fifth book in Lisa B. Kamps’ Baltimore Banners series and a hockey romance in its true form! I have not read the other stories in the series but I have read another book by the writer, also a hockey romance, so I knew that I will be graced with something good!
Break Away is the story of Jean-Pierre “JP” Larocque and Emily Poole. These two went through a tragic event five years earlier and it has marked their lives ever since … I can see how some people would feel that they miss hearing more about their backgrounds as everything in the story is shadowed by that tragic event but I do not mind actually as it is a beautiful example of the ‘now’ … how our lives get interrupted and how do we deal with tragedy and what do we need in those horrible moments … Not all of us get a second chance so Break Away is a heart-breaking and heart-warming story of what could happen when the two people who were torn apart by one defining tragic event meet again … is there a way forward, together or are the memories too hard to bear to even remotely to imagine a possible future together…
I love the writer’s style, it is simple and to the point and grabs you by your heart strings. I know I will be reading more of her writing!
Break Away is the story of Jean-Pierre “JP” Larocque and Emily Poole. These two went through a tragic event five years earlier and it has marked their lives ever since … I can see how some people would feel that they miss hearing more about their backgrounds as everything in the story is shadowed by that tragic event but I do not mind actually as it is a beautiful example of the ‘now’ … how our lives get interrupted and how do we deal with tragedy and what do we need in those horrible moments … Not all of us get a second chance so Break Away is a heart-breaking and heart-warming story of what could happen when the two people who were torn apart by one defining tragic event meet again … is there a way forward, together or are the memories too hard to bear to even remotely to imagine a possible future together…
I love the writer’s style, it is simple and to the point and grabs you by your heart strings. I know I will be reading more of her writing!
March 29, 2018
Break Away
By Lisa B. Kamps
5 stars
I have read a couple of books by this author and really enjoy her writing style but this is the first book that I have read from this series. Sports romance stories are amongst some of my favourite to read and this was definitely up there with some of my favourites that I have read. It didn’t take me long to become absorbed in JP and Emily’s story, I do really want to read the story of how they met too! Lisa B. Kamps writing is such that it completely pulls you into the story of her characters. I found that once I started this book I couldn’t put it down. Her characters are particularly well thought out. I really liked Emily and thought that she was a really likeable and relatable character I geuniely think that because of the authors attention to detail I really could feel all of her emotions. JP was just great! I have to admit I do love an alpha sportsman and he was definitely one of my favourites! I think the French part had something to do with it too *sigh*. He was really thoughtful and sweet – he more than earnt his spot on my book boyfriend list!!
An overall brilliant 5 star read that I highly recommend!
By Lisa B. Kamps
5 stars
I have read a couple of books by this author and really enjoy her writing style but this is the first book that I have read from this series. Sports romance stories are amongst some of my favourite to read and this was definitely up there with some of my favourites that I have read. It didn’t take me long to become absorbed in JP and Emily’s story, I do really want to read the story of how they met too! Lisa B. Kamps writing is such that it completely pulls you into the story of her characters. I found that once I started this book I couldn’t put it down. Her characters are particularly well thought out. I really liked Emily and thought that she was a really likeable and relatable character I geuniely think that because of the authors attention to detail I really could feel all of her emotions. JP was just great! I have to admit I do love an alpha sportsman and he was definitely one of my favourites! I think the French part had something to do with it too *sigh*. He was really thoughtful and sweet – he more than earnt his spot on my book boyfriend list!!
An overall brilliant 5 star read that I highly recommend!
April 20, 2018
Break Away is the fifth book in the Baltimore Banners series by Lisa B. Kamps. I have read at least one other book by Ms. Kamps but this was the first in this series. I'm now trying to figure out why I have just discovered this series and I'm trying to plan my time to get caught up on this series.
Emily has dealt with a painful experience with strength but not without scars. I couldn't imagine going through what she did and not falling apart emotionally. She helps her sister Monica out by taking care of Taylor while Monica is working. She has no idea what this is going to do to her life.
JP is the hot hockey player, who lacks no confidence. He has also dealt with a painful experience in his life but I don't think he was able to get past it as well as he could have for multiple reasons. He finally gets that chance with the assistance of Emily.
Taylor was by far my favorite with Mat being a close second. I loved the fact that she wasn't afraid to be who she was no matter what. She was fun, spunky and seemed absolutely adorable. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series, there are a few people I hope to see more of in this next book.
Emily has dealt with a painful experience with strength but not without scars. I couldn't imagine going through what she did and not falling apart emotionally. She helps her sister Monica out by taking care of Taylor while Monica is working. She has no idea what this is going to do to her life.
JP is the hot hockey player, who lacks no confidence. He has also dealt with a painful experience in his life but I don't think he was able to get past it as well as he could have for multiple reasons. He finally gets that chance with the assistance of Emily.
Taylor was by far my favorite with Mat being a close second. I loved the fact that she wasn't afraid to be who she was no matter what. She was fun, spunky and seemed absolutely adorable. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series, there are a few people I hope to see more of in this next book.
April 20, 2018
Break Away (The Baltimore Banners Book 5)
By Lisa B. Kamp
What a wonderful but sad introduction to Lisa B. Kamp. This book is the fifth in the Banner Series. Like all series I do wish I had read it from the beginning, but on saying that I never felt lost while reading it, so yes it can be read as a standalone. If you enjoy sport/romance then you will love this book, well I think you will anyway. Life for Emily and JP has not been the easiest road taken. Tragedy strikes them when they suffer the loss of their baby, instead of pulling together, they fall apart. Now five years later they meet up again. The emotions they both shared in the past is still there, but is this enough for them to get of the hurt of their past? There is no greater loss than that of a child, and for me personally I could feel their pain. The pain of a child lost never goes away and its never forgotten, you live that pain day and night. Love the character development and I hope that this won’t be the last book that I read by Lisa. Like I said this book is both sad and beautiful and I hope you enjoy.
By Lisa B. Kamp
What a wonderful but sad introduction to Lisa B. Kamp. This book is the fifth in the Banner Series. Like all series I do wish I had read it from the beginning, but on saying that I never felt lost while reading it, so yes it can be read as a standalone. If you enjoy sport/romance then you will love this book, well I think you will anyway. Life for Emily and JP has not been the easiest road taken. Tragedy strikes them when they suffer the loss of their baby, instead of pulling together, they fall apart. Now five years later they meet up again. The emotions they both shared in the past is still there, but is this enough for them to get of the hurt of their past? There is no greater loss than that of a child, and for me personally I could feel their pain. The pain of a child lost never goes away and its never forgotten, you live that pain day and night. Love the character development and I hope that this won’t be the last book that I read by Lisa. Like I said this book is both sad and beautiful and I hope you enjoy.
March 29, 2018
Break Away- Lisa B. Kamps
4-star review
Break Away by Lisa B. Kamps is the fifth book in her series The Baltimore Banners. This is the first book of this series that I have read so I can honestly say it can be read as a standalone. This story took me on an emotional roller coaster ride as it delved into Emily and JP’s past. It’s written beautifully, and the characters are engaging and very easy to connect and relate too, plus the friendly banter between the players made for an entertaining read.
I felt very invested in their story and the amount of detail made it easy for me to feel for Emily as she was dealing with all her emotions. From her pain and anger, to her loss and all of the uncertainty about making the right decision. She was a really relatable character. I loved JP from the start, he was sweet, caring, persistent and so thoughtful, the perfect French gentleman. I would absolutely recommend this hockey romance story to anyone looking for their next romance read!
4-star review
Break Away by Lisa B. Kamps is the fifth book in her series The Baltimore Banners. This is the first book of this series that I have read so I can honestly say it can be read as a standalone. This story took me on an emotional roller coaster ride as it delved into Emily and JP’s past. It’s written beautifully, and the characters are engaging and very easy to connect and relate too, plus the friendly banter between the players made for an entertaining read.
I felt very invested in their story and the amount of detail made it easy for me to feel for Emily as she was dealing with all her emotions. From her pain and anger, to her loss and all of the uncertainty about making the right decision. She was a really relatable character. I loved JP from the start, he was sweet, caring, persistent and so thoughtful, the perfect French gentleman. I would absolutely recommend this hockey romance story to anyone looking for their next romance read!
April 20, 2018
Break Away by Lisa B. Kamps
Four Stars
Break Away is the fifth book in the Baltimore Banners series by Lisa B. Kamps. This book can be read as a stand alone, but I recommend you read the books in order. The are all great and you would be missing out if you didn’t check out the whole series. That being said, I have to tell you this is my favorite book by Ms. Kamps so far. I love the detailed character descriptions and plot line. The characters are true to life and down to earth. This book is full of ups and downs. I had to keep the tissue box near me throughout this story. This story features JP who plays professional hockey and has a reputation as a ladies man. Emily has had some setbacks in her life and doesn’t know if she can let JP in when he comes back into her life. This is a fantastic second chance with twists and turns that will keep you reading till the end. I highly recommend this book, series and author.
Four Stars
Break Away is the fifth book in the Baltimore Banners series by Lisa B. Kamps. This book can be read as a stand alone, but I recommend you read the books in order. The are all great and you would be missing out if you didn’t check out the whole series. That being said, I have to tell you this is my favorite book by Ms. Kamps so far. I love the detailed character descriptions and plot line. The characters are true to life and down to earth. This book is full of ups and downs. I had to keep the tissue box near me throughout this story. This story features JP who plays professional hockey and has a reputation as a ladies man. Emily has had some setbacks in her life and doesn’t know if she can let JP in when he comes back into her life. This is a fantastic second chance with twists and turns that will keep you reading till the end. I highly recommend this book, series and author.
April 20, 2018
Break Away is book 5 in the Baltimore Banners Series written by Lisa B. Kamps. This is a great series each of the books are about different teams mates but they all interact between the stories. You can read this as a stand alone and have no issues but reading the other stories helps you get to know the other characters in the stories also. Break Away is JP's story and his history with Emily. This story made me cry a little bit. It’s about love, loss and moving forward after loving and losing. And of course, second chances. This is a story to just read and enjoy, don’t speed through it to see how it ends. There are a few scenes that are romantic and descriptive but not a ton of them. The characters overcome a lot during Break Away emotionally and it’s sad to read about and imagine the struggle but it’s also nice to read about how they moved forward and faced their fears. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
April 18, 2018
Break Away had a sort of sad undertone throughout the whole book. JP and Emily start off tainted by the past and heartbreak they haven’t recovered from. It’s a second chance romance that gives all the feels.
JP is kind of stalkery and pushy, but it seems Emily needs that because for a good long time she is just completely walled off. Oh and her sister is very frustrating and bitter! Sheesh! Her niece is freakin adorable, though. JP and his little bits of French throughout the book were just delicious. There were multiple super hot scenes, along with some very serious, emotional moments.
This is book 5 in the Baltimore Banners series, however I read it as a stand alone. It was very enjoyable, with a happy ever after, and I would for sure read more books in the series. Loved it.
JP is kind of stalkery and pushy, but it seems Emily needs that because for a good long time she is just completely walled off. Oh and her sister is very frustrating and bitter! Sheesh! Her niece is freakin adorable, though. JP and his little bits of French throughout the book were just delicious. There were multiple super hot scenes, along with some very serious, emotional moments.
This is book 5 in the Baltimore Banners series, however I read it as a stand alone. It was very enjoyable, with a happy ever after, and I would for sure read more books in the series. Loved it.
April 18, 2018
Break Away by Lisa B. Kamps is the fifth book in The Baltimore Banners Series. Though it is the fifth book in the series it can be read as a standalone. This is the story of jean-Pierre "JP" Larocque, a star hockey player for the Baltimore Banners. JP is know as a player but cannot forget Emily, who he let go from his life years ago. He sees Emily five years later and cannot seem to forget her or get her off his mind. Emily has struggled with tragedy over the past five years, and is just tried to get on with her life. Will she let herself feel for JP again?
Lisa B. Kamps definitely scored a goal with Break Away. Her writing flowed and kept you engaged. Her characters were well developed and easy to connect with. Just be prepared for the roller coaster ride of emotions, it is well worth the ride. I highly recommend Break Away.
Lisa B. Kamps definitely scored a goal with Break Away. Her writing flowed and kept you engaged. Her characters were well developed and easy to connect with. Just be prepared for the roller coaster ride of emotions, it is well worth the ride. I highly recommend Break Away.
April 20, 2018
Breakaway by Lisa B Kamps
Four Stars
What a beautiful story. The author had me in my feelings while reading this book. Babies are so precious and to lose one before they had a fighting chance just breaks your heart. The characters were well written and balanced each other out. Jean-Pierre was beautifully flawed. He accent perfect his sometimes shy and confused mannerisms. Not knowing what he wanted but knew that it began and ended with Emily. Her role was just heartbreaking. Always living with the knowledge of what she lost and the pain of doing it alone. The uncertainty she felt about JP and what his coming back meant. This second chance book is one to definitely pick up. It read quick and they moved fast but in the end it was worth and they ended well.
Four Stars
What a beautiful story. The author had me in my feelings while reading this book. Babies are so precious and to lose one before they had a fighting chance just breaks your heart. The characters were well written and balanced each other out. Jean-Pierre was beautifully flawed. He accent perfect his sometimes shy and confused mannerisms. Not knowing what he wanted but knew that it began and ended with Emily. Her role was just heartbreaking. Always living with the knowledge of what she lost and the pain of doing it alone. The uncertainty she felt about JP and what his coming back meant. This second chance book is one to definitely pick up. It read quick and they moved fast but in the end it was worth and they ended well.
July 3, 2018
Slightly conflicted.
I understood that the pain of losing a child could do quite some damage but that’s not what left me conflicted. I like the concept of the second chance at love and how they made their way to each other. But I felt the author could have articulated herself better rather then being repetitive. The word dangerous was used too many times that I lost count. There has to be another adjective to describe a man. And the self incriminating doubt was a little overdone. It also needed some editing. What made me continue reading was the French put in here and there. It made me laugh and had me using google translate to understand the bits I didn’t . Free French lesson!! Lol And the heroine’s niece Taylor was a delight.
I understood that the pain of losing a child could do quite some damage but that’s not what left me conflicted. I like the concept of the second chance at love and how they made their way to each other. But I felt the author could have articulated herself better rather then being repetitive. The word dangerous was used too many times that I lost count. There has to be another adjective to describe a man. And the self incriminating doubt was a little overdone. It also needed some editing. What made me continue reading was the French put in here and there. It made me laugh and had me using google translate to understand the bits I didn’t . Free French lesson!! Lol And the heroine’s niece Taylor was a delight.
March 30, 2018
I read this book as the game was on in the background - my team is skating for #1 so It allowed me to immerse myself into the sport I was reading about (fine, I watch it for the good looking players .. gooo team).
This is a second chance romance set in the world of professional hockey. From rookies to bench bunnies, this is a classic hockey story. HOWEVER, this story had me in tears a few times during the story in addition to ahhh-ing over the connection that the two main characters have.
This is a good story that doesn't go too deep into details which allows for an easy read.
This is definitely a sports romance series that I recommend.
This is a second chance romance set in the world of professional hockey. From rookies to bench bunnies, this is a classic hockey story. HOWEVER, this story had me in tears a few times during the story in addition to ahhh-ing over the connection that the two main characters have.
This is a good story that doesn't go too deep into details which allows for an easy read.
This is definitely a sports romance series that I recommend.
April 7, 2018
This was my first read by Lisa Kamps, but it will not be my last. This is book 5 in this series, but can be read as a standalone, but i will be going back and reading the first 4 now!
JP and Emily had their love story years ago, but after a loss, they couldnt make it work to be there for each other how they needed to be.
After running into each other again, can they make it work now? Can they heal together from what they lost?
I cried, and swooned at this story and they were so relatable I felt that I was in this story with them. And who doesnt love a second chance hockey romance story?
Can't wait for more from this author!
JP and Emily had their love story years ago, but after a loss, they couldnt make it work to be there for each other how they needed to be.
After running into each other again, can they make it work now? Can they heal together from what they lost?
I cried, and swooned at this story and they were so relatable I felt that I was in this story with them. And who doesnt love a second chance hockey romance story?
Can't wait for more from this author!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews