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Chicago Rebels #0.5
In Skates Trouble
He'll give her what she needs . . .
Addison Williams isn't looking for romance, but when she encounters an eavesdropping stranger on an adjoining hotel balcony, she figures she's due a little fun. She just hadn't reckoned on the "fun" escalating so quickly to "out of control." One minute she's flirting with a whiskey-graveled voice in the dark, the next that same voice is telling her to do things. Hot, wicked things.
Cup-winning hockey player Ford "Killer" Callaghan can't believe he let the anonymous woman who blew his mind slip away into the night. He'll track her down because once could never be enough—even if discovering her identity places her strictly out of bounds.
Stolen kisses. Secret hook-ups. Deliciously forbidden in every way. Can a passion that started in the dark find a lifetime of love in the light?
Originally published in Hot on Ice: A Hockey Romance Anthology, this sexy prequel to the Chicago Rebels hockey series features an older, curvy woman, a younger, driven hero, and a happily-ever-after you'll swoon over.
Addison Williams isn't looking for romance, but when she encounters an eavesdropping stranger on an adjoining hotel balcony, she figures she's due a little fun. She just hadn't reckoned on the "fun" escalating so quickly to "out of control." One minute she's flirting with a whiskey-graveled voice in the dark, the next that same voice is telling her to do things. Hot, wicked things.
Cup-winning hockey player Ford "Killer" Callaghan can't believe he let the anonymous woman who blew his mind slip away into the night. He'll track her down because once could never be enough—even if discovering her identity places her strictly out of bounds.
Stolen kisses. Secret hook-ups. Deliciously forbidden in every way. Can a passion that started in the dark find a lifetime of love in the light?
Originally published in Hot on Ice: A Hockey Romance Anthology, this sexy prequel to the Chicago Rebels hockey series features an older, curvy woman, a younger, driven hero, and a happily-ever-after you'll swoon over.
158 pages, ebook
First published March 21, 2017
971 people are currently reading
2399 people want to read
About the author
Kate Meader
54 books3,362 followersKate writes sexy contemporary, sports, and LGBTQ+ romance with strong guys and amazing women and men who match their heroes quip for quip. She's known for blending heat, humor, and heart into irresistibly romantic stories.
Sign up for her newsletter to get updates on sales, giveaways, and new releases.
The Rookie Rebels features a team of heroes who are about to learn that all's fair in love and hockey.
1. GOOD GUY (Levi and Jordan)
2. INSTACRUSH (Theo and Elle)
3. MAN DOWN (Gunnar and Sadie)
4. FOREPLAYER (Cal and Mia)
5. DEAR ROOMIE (Reid and Kennedy)
6. REBEL YULE (Erik and Casey)
7. JOCK WANTED (Fitz and Tara)
8. SUPERSTAR (Bast and Pepper)
9. WILD RIDE (Dex and Ashley)
10. HOCKEY WIFE (Banks and Georgia)
The Hot in Chicago Rookies series heads back to Engine 6 for more steamy firefighter romances.
0. COMING IN HOT (Tyler and Evie)
1. UP IN SMOKE (Roman and Abby)
2. DOWN IN FLAMES (Jude and Hudson)
3. HOT TO THE TOUCH (Sam and Cassandra)
The Laws of Attraction series about sexy divorce lawyers:
1. DOWN WITH LOVE (Max and Charlie)
2. ILLEGALLY YOURS (Lucas and Trinity)
3. THEN CAME YOU (Grant and Aubrey)
The Chicago Rebels series about sexy hockey players:
0.5 IN SKATES TROUBLE (Ford and Addison) - FREE!
1. IRRESISTIBLE YOU (Remy and Harper)
2. SO OVER YOU (Vadim and Isobel)
3. UNDONE BY YOU (Dante and Cade)
4. HOOKED ON YOU (Bren and Violet)
5. WRAPPED UP IN YOU (More Dante and Cade)
The Hot in Chicago series about sexy firefighters:
0.5 REKINDLE THE FLAME (Beck and Darcy)
1. FLIRTING WITH FIRE (Luke and Kinsey)
1.5 MELTING POINT (Gage and Brady)
2. PLAYING WITH FIRE (Eli and Alex)
3. SPARKING THE FIRE (Wyatt and Molly)
3.5 FOREVER IN FIRE (More Eli and Alex)
3.6 COMING IN HOT, Men in Uniform anthology (Tyler and Evie)
The Hot in the Kitchen series about sexy chefs:
1. FEEL THE HEAT (Jack and Lili)
2. ALL FIRED UP (Shane and Cara)
3. HOT AND BOTHERED (Tad and Jules)
... however each book can also be read as a standalone novel or novella.
For excerpts, news, and giveaways, visit: http://katemeader.com
Sign up for her newsletter to get updates on sales, giveaways, and new releases.
The Rookie Rebels features a team of heroes who are about to learn that all's fair in love and hockey.
1. GOOD GUY (Levi and Jordan)
2. INSTACRUSH (Theo and Elle)
3. MAN DOWN (Gunnar and Sadie)
4. FOREPLAYER (Cal and Mia)
5. DEAR ROOMIE (Reid and Kennedy)
6. REBEL YULE (Erik and Casey)
7. JOCK WANTED (Fitz and Tara)
8. SUPERSTAR (Bast and Pepper)
9. WILD RIDE (Dex and Ashley)
10. HOCKEY WIFE (Banks and Georgia)
The Hot in Chicago Rookies series heads back to Engine 6 for more steamy firefighter romances.
0. COMING IN HOT (Tyler and Evie)
1. UP IN SMOKE (Roman and Abby)
2. DOWN IN FLAMES (Jude and Hudson)
3. HOT TO THE TOUCH (Sam and Cassandra)
The Laws of Attraction series about sexy divorce lawyers:
1. DOWN WITH LOVE (Max and Charlie)
2. ILLEGALLY YOURS (Lucas and Trinity)
3. THEN CAME YOU (Grant and Aubrey)
The Chicago Rebels series about sexy hockey players:
0.5 IN SKATES TROUBLE (Ford and Addison) - FREE!
1. IRRESISTIBLE YOU (Remy and Harper)
2. SO OVER YOU (Vadim and Isobel)
3. UNDONE BY YOU (Dante and Cade)
4. HOOKED ON YOU (Bren and Violet)
5. WRAPPED UP IN YOU (More Dante and Cade)
The Hot in Chicago series about sexy firefighters:
0.5 REKINDLE THE FLAME (Beck and Darcy)
1. FLIRTING WITH FIRE (Luke and Kinsey)
1.5 MELTING POINT (Gage and Brady)
2. PLAYING WITH FIRE (Eli and Alex)
3. SPARKING THE FIRE (Wyatt and Molly)
3.5 FOREVER IN FIRE (More Eli and Alex)
3.6 COMING IN HOT, Men in Uniform anthology (Tyler and Evie)
The Hot in the Kitchen series about sexy chefs:
1. FEEL THE HEAT (Jack and Lili)
2. ALL FIRED UP (Shane and Cara)
3. HOT AND BOTHERED (Tad and Jules)
... however each book can also be read as a standalone novel or novella.
For excerpts, news, and giveaways, visit: http://katemeader.com
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April 14, 2018
In Skates Trouble is book #0.5 in the Chicago Rebels series by Kate Meader. This prequel was originally published as part of the Hot on Ice: A Hockey Romance Anthology. Now you can purchase it by itself. I have read two later books in this series and am now going back to read the ones I missed before I read the latest book.
Ford Callaghan is the star right winger for the cup winning New Orleans Cajun Rajuns. He is in Chicago to visit his family and is sitting out on the balcony in the dark when he begins to overhear three women’s conversation on the balcony next door. He should go inside but can’t tear himself away. It’s the voice of one of the women that holds him captive. After her friends leave, and he realizes she knew he was there all along, that both of their worlds are changed forever.
Addison Williams is a full figured lingerie model who is starting her own lingerie business in Chicago. Addison has been divorced for two years now and wants nothing more than to be independent and successful. She is not the least bit interested in getting back into a relationship. But when the man in the next door balcony speaks to her, his voice does things to her, awakens parts of her long since asleep. There are no faces involved, no identities, just that voice. And the things that voice asks her to do there on the balcony in the dark, rocks her world.
Ford can’t get the woman’s voice out of his head. He has to figure out who she is. One night will never be enough.
“Something had been set in motion that night on the balcony, and she wasn’t sure how to go back to before – or if she even wanted to.”
Ford is six years younger than Addison and is wrong for her in every way, he’s a hockey player with a connection to her ex-husband, he’s too young, and he lives in New Orleans. But their chemistry is explosive. They can’t come within three feet of each other without wanting to jump on the other. And when they do come together, fireworks happens, big fireworks, like the grand finale kinds of fireworks.
I’m so glad I went back to the beginning and met Ford and Addison. Just a warning but these two will melt your e-reader they are so hot! I loved the way this all played out. The first full book in the series is Irresistible You which is Harper and Remy’s story. I’ve aleady read it and you most definitely don’t want to miss it.
March 16, 2017
4 STARS
☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆
Review @ Vanilla & Spice Books
☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆
Sitting on a balcony in a hotel in his hometown Chicago Ford Callaghan, star right winger of the Cajun Rajuns, overhears a spicy conversation between friends. One of the voices sounds familiar, the other one smokey and sexy.
Addy, a successful and famous plus-size model, is fascinated by their eavesdropper. After calling him out they share an explosive anonymous experience. Addy regrets that she will never see and get to know this man but after her marriage to the controlling owner of a hockey team she cherishes her independence.
This was such a sweet and sexy read! Ford is delicious and dead-set on making Addy his. He goes after her relentlessly and he doesn't take a no for an answer. He knows Addy is a strong woman but also senses her vulnerable side. And he knows how to bring the wild kitten out of her. Ford was panty-meltingly sweet and hot.
Addy is an independent, intelligent woman who after being a trophy wife wants more out of life. She puts her career first, a man with Ford's personality doesn't have room in her life. She puts her foot down when she feels cornered but you also feel that she cares about this beautiful man.
I love that a jock doesn't always have to be a man-ho who indulges in meaningless one-night stands. He lets his girl know in no uncertain terms that she is the most important thing in his world. Also, the heroine is older than the hero which made me happy, you don't see that very often in romance.
Kate Meader packs a surprising amount of story into these 100 and odd pages. Of course you can't expect in depth characterization but for this short novella we get a really good picture about who our main characters are. Do I wish it would have been longer? Hell yes, I think there was a lot of potential for a full length novel, especially Ford's past.
This story is told with a good dose of the dry humor I have come to love about this author. As per usual we also get some of the hottest sex scenes in the romance world.
This novella is a great introduction into Kate Meader's new Chicago Rebels series and I can't wait to see what this author has for Harper and Remy in store!
☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆
Review @ Vanilla & Spice Books
☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆
Sitting on a balcony in a hotel in his hometown Chicago Ford Callaghan, star right winger of the Cajun Rajuns, overhears a spicy conversation between friends. One of the voices sounds familiar, the other one smokey and sexy.
Addy, a successful and famous plus-size model, is fascinated by their eavesdropper. After calling him out they share an explosive anonymous experience. Addy regrets that she will never see and get to know this man but after her marriage to the controlling owner of a hockey team she cherishes her independence.
This was such a sweet and sexy read! Ford is delicious and dead-set on making Addy his. He goes after her relentlessly and he doesn't take a no for an answer. He knows Addy is a strong woman but also senses her vulnerable side. And he knows how to bring the wild kitten out of her. Ford was panty-meltingly sweet and hot.
“I lick this, it’s mine.” Better she be warned. He waited for her acquiescence, needing that final word.
“Yes.”
Addy is an independent, intelligent woman who after being a trophy wife wants more out of life. She puts her career first, a man with Ford's personality doesn't have room in her life. She puts her foot down when she feels cornered but you also feel that she cares about this beautiful man.
I need my career. I need to be someone other than a wife.
I love that a jock doesn't always have to be a man-ho who indulges in meaningless one-night stands. He lets his girl know in no uncertain terms that she is the most important thing in his world. Also, the heroine is older than the hero which made me happy, you don't see that very often in romance.
Kate Meader packs a surprising amount of story into these 100 and odd pages. Of course you can't expect in depth characterization but for this short novella we get a really good picture about who our main characters are. Do I wish it would have been longer? Hell yes, I think there was a lot of potential for a full length novel, especially Ford's past.
This story is told with a good dose of the dry humor I have come to love about this author. As per usual we also get some of the hottest sex scenes in the romance world.
This novella is a great introduction into Kate Meader's new Chicago Rebels series and I can't wait to see what this author has for Harper and Remy in store!
March 16, 2017
4.5 - "The guy's as hot as puck." Stars!
This novella is initially being released as part of the Hot On Ice Anthology, and you can pre-order a copy here -
Amazon - http://amzn.to/2jFsJg8
iBooks: http://apple.co/2fOCS8g
B&N: http://bit.ly/2gC6ceJ
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2ggBnyg
In my humble opinion, In Skates Trouble is worth the cost of purchasing this box-set alone. The story between Ford and Addison didn’t really feel like a novella to me, it was well rounded the characters well developed, as well as a good set of secondary characters to flesh out the story overall.
"Leaving so soon. Mr. Eavesdropper?"
Older woman, younger man is always a trope I enjoy, and the author delivered it up perfectly, yes the difference in age was mentioned but it wasn’t the mainstay of the story, the fact that Ford’s boss was Addy’s ex-husband had more of an impact on the relationship, and due to how things proceeded between them, Ford actually came across as the older person on a few occasions.
"The exchange of phone numbers is the best way to prevent the further exchange of bodily fluids…"
Plenty of sass, snark, and one-liners from both sides, as you would expect from this author, but once again she managed to bring emotion to the story, with the ghosts of Ford’s past.
"You’re staring…"
"...You’re stunning."
Another reason to grab this anthology at its crazy cheap release price, is that this sweet and sexy tale is also the prequel for Kate’s new Chicago Rebels series, and on the strength of this novella I am all sorts of excited to read more from it.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
This novella is initially being released as part of the Hot On Ice Anthology, and you can pre-order a copy here -
Amazon - http://amzn.to/2jFsJg8
iBooks: http://apple.co/2fOCS8g
B&N: http://bit.ly/2gC6ceJ
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2ggBnyg
In my humble opinion, In Skates Trouble is worth the cost of purchasing this box-set alone. The story between Ford and Addison didn’t really feel like a novella to me, it was well rounded the characters well developed, as well as a good set of secondary characters to flesh out the story overall.
"Leaving so soon. Mr. Eavesdropper?"
Older woman, younger man is always a trope I enjoy, and the author delivered it up perfectly, yes the difference in age was mentioned but it wasn’t the mainstay of the story, the fact that Ford’s boss was Addy’s ex-husband had more of an impact on the relationship, and due to how things proceeded between them, Ford actually came across as the older person on a few occasions.
"The exchange of phone numbers is the best way to prevent the further exchange of bodily fluids…"
Plenty of sass, snark, and one-liners from both sides, as you would expect from this author, but once again she managed to bring emotion to the story, with the ghosts of Ford’s past.
"You’re staring…"
"...You’re stunning."
Another reason to grab this anthology at its crazy cheap release price, is that this sweet and sexy tale is also the prequel for Kate’s new Chicago Rebels series, and on the strength of this novella I am all sorts of excited to read more from it.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
July 30, 2018
Currently FREE (7/2018) https://amzn.to/2OtTzne
Fun, flirty, sexy and sweet!
Famous plus-sized model, Addison Williams wants to rebuild her independent life and career after her divorce and she’s in Chicago to focus on just that. She never could have predicted that the seductive eavesdropping voice from her next door hotel neighbor would go from one sexy faceless and nameless evening to adventurous shenanigans and then some.
NHL cup-winning right winger Ford Callahan didn’t tell his brother he was arriving in Chicago a couple of days early to be alone with his demons. Turns out he wasn’t as alone as he thought. As he hears women’s laughter coming from the next door balcony, he can’t help but want to know what they were talking about. As the saucy conversation ends and the owner of the sexiest voice he’s ever heard calls him out from the darkness on his eavesdropping, their anonymous flirtation turns into a night they won’t soon forget.
Unwilling to let her slip through his fingers, Ford is determined to find her. But will he pursue her and risk his career once he finds out she’s his boss’ ex?
One of the reasons I love reading books by Kate Meader is that she always makes me smile. I was grinning like a loon by the first few pages with Ford’s snooping mischief and shameless flirtatiousness, fanning myself by chapter two and halfway in love with him by chapter four. He wanted a relationship with a meaningful connection and he knew it would be with Addy pursuing her relentlessly. Addy is equally likeable and I loved their banter, chemistry and relationship development.
I really didn’t want this novella to end. Meader had me completely charmed with this couple and totally on board to read the next book in her series. But with this anthology we do get so much more out of it, as there are 17 other stories by great authors, some I know some I can’t wait to read all for a great price and the added benefit of helping out as 20% of royalties from sales of Hot on Ice will go to Homes for US Troops, a charity that builds specially modified homes for injured veterans.
In Skates Trouble is novella #0.5 and the kickoff to the Chicago Rebels a standalone contemporary romance by Kate Meader. It is a short, hot and easy to read story. Told from both points of view and has a happy ending.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2OtTzne
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
Fun, flirty, sexy and sweet!
Famous plus-sized model, Addison Williams wants to rebuild her independent life and career after her divorce and she’s in Chicago to focus on just that. She never could have predicted that the seductive eavesdropping voice from her next door hotel neighbor would go from one sexy faceless and nameless evening to adventurous shenanigans and then some.
NHL cup-winning right winger Ford Callahan didn’t tell his brother he was arriving in Chicago a couple of days early to be alone with his demons. Turns out he wasn’t as alone as he thought. As he hears women’s laughter coming from the next door balcony, he can’t help but want to know what they were talking about. As the saucy conversation ends and the owner of the sexiest voice he’s ever heard calls him out from the darkness on his eavesdropping, their anonymous flirtation turns into a night they won’t soon forget.
Unwilling to let her slip through his fingers, Ford is determined to find her. But will he pursue her and risk his career once he finds out she’s his boss’ ex?
“Straight talk is a virtue. Dirty talk is a g*ddamn blessing.”
One of the reasons I love reading books by Kate Meader is that she always makes me smile. I was grinning like a loon by the first few pages with Ford’s snooping mischief and shameless flirtatiousness, fanning myself by chapter two and halfway in love with him by chapter four. He wanted a relationship with a meaningful connection and he knew it would be with Addy pursuing her relentlessly. Addy is equally likeable and I loved their banter, chemistry and relationship development.
“You know what’s between us is crazy, strong, and real. I want to follow that to its logical conclusion.” ~ Ford to Add
I really didn’t want this novella to end. Meader had me completely charmed with this couple and totally on board to read the next book in her series. But with this anthology we do get so much more out of it, as there are 17 other stories by great authors, some I know some I can’t wait to read all for a great price and the added benefit of helping out as 20% of royalties from sales of Hot on Ice will go to Homes for US Troops, a charity that builds specially modified homes for injured veterans.
In Skates Trouble is novella #0.5 and the kickoff to the Chicago Rebels a standalone contemporary romance by Kate Meader. It is a short, hot and easy to read story. Told from both points of view and has a happy ending.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2OtTzne
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
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April 22, 2017Is it possible to fall for someone on sound alone? Ford Callaghan certainly thinks so. When he overhears a sultry-voiced goddess on an adjoining hotel balcony detailing her man woes with self-deprecating humor, he can't help being drawn to this woman he's never seen. And when she calls him out and starts flirting with him in the dark, he's determined to make her forget every loser who's disappointed her in bed.
Problem is . . . now he can't forget her.
This sexy prequel to my Chicago Rebels hockey series sets up an exciting new world where the men might rule on the ice but the women rule everywhere else! I hope you enjoy Ford and Addison as much as I enjoyed writing them--and that you're now ready to climb aboard the Chicago Rebels express.
Originally published in Hot on Ice: A Hockey Romance Anthology, this novella features an older, curvy woman, a younger, driven hero, and a happily-ever-after you'll swoon over.
Problem is . . . now he can't forget her.
This sexy prequel to my Chicago Rebels hockey series sets up an exciting new world where the men might rule on the ice but the women rule everywhere else! I hope you enjoy Ford and Addison as much as I enjoyed writing them--and that you're now ready to climb aboard the Chicago Rebels express.
Originally published in Hot on Ice: A Hockey Romance Anthology, this novella features an older, curvy woman, a younger, driven hero, and a happily-ever-after you'll swoon over.
May 1, 2017
I was so very excited about everything I was reading. This was incredibly fun, sexy, and entertaining! An excellent introduction to a new series. Loved it all!
The story started off so flirty and hot! I loved Addy and Ford. That first meeting and their connection and chemistry was off the charts! I love how they meet, how Ford moved them forward and how their relationship is explosive right from the start. Addy was a fantastic character. I love that Kate Meader always writes such a strong heroine. Addy was bold, confident, and secure in who she was. Ford was so sweet, and I loved the fact that he didn't play games. There are a few complications in their relationship, some ups and downs, and I enjoyed every second of them getting to their happily ever after.
Besides the fun and sexy, there's a bit of emotion thanks to some drama Addy and Ford encounter and also because of Ford’s backstory. I love how everything played out, some really touching moments came out of it.
This might be a novella but it was very much a full story. The writing is great with excellent details that pulled me in. I love all the characters that were introduced and the hints of foreshadowing of what might come in the first full book in the series, Irresistible You. The way things were laid out got me excited where everything could go. I am thrilled for this new series to release.
In short, this was awesome. I loved the witty and engaging characters, I felt they had depth and a good back story. I loved Addy and Ford’s relationship, how everything was laid out, and thought it had a good pace. Solid beginning, middle an end.
Can’t wait for more. Bring on the Chicago Rebels!
Complimentary copy received for honest review.
The story started off so flirty and hot! I loved Addy and Ford. That first meeting and their connection and chemistry was off the charts! I love how they meet, how Ford moved them forward and how their relationship is explosive right from the start. Addy was a fantastic character. I love that Kate Meader always writes such a strong heroine. Addy was bold, confident, and secure in who she was. Ford was so sweet, and I loved the fact that he didn't play games. There are a few complications in their relationship, some ups and downs, and I enjoyed every second of them getting to their happily ever after.
Besides the fun and sexy, there's a bit of emotion thanks to some drama Addy and Ford encounter and also because of Ford’s backstory. I love how everything played out, some really touching moments came out of it.
This might be a novella but it was very much a full story. The writing is great with excellent details that pulled me in. I love all the characters that were introduced and the hints of foreshadowing of what might come in the first full book in the series, Irresistible You. The way things were laid out got me excited where everything could go. I am thrilled for this new series to release.
In short, this was awesome. I loved the witty and engaging characters, I felt they had depth and a good back story. I loved Addy and Ford’s relationship, how everything was laid out, and thought it had a good pace. Solid beginning, middle an end.
Can’t wait for more. Bring on the Chicago Rebels!
Complimentary copy received for honest review.
October 17, 2017
In Skates Trouble was the Prequel to the Chicago Rebels series by Kate Meader.
I had already read the first book in the series, Irresistible You (Harper/Remy) and was dying to back up and read the Prequel for Ford and Addy.
Ford Callaghan was a gorgeous twenty six year old that just won the Stanley Cup with the New Orleans Cajun Rajuns. On his tour home to Chicago with the cup, he met a sexy voice on an adjoining balcony in the dark of night. A voice he only knew as Addy.
Addison "Addy" Williams was a beautiful full figure model, business owner, and ex-wife. She had exited a bad marriage and was rebuilding her life on her own terms. Talking with the deep seductive no name voice on the next balcony was fun but thankfully she'd never meet him in person. She didn't have time for it and she definitely didn't need a man.
As a novella, In Skates Trouble was a quick and fairly light hearted read. It set the stage for a new series while at the same time addressing the baggage and challenges within Ford and Addy.
Although the focus was on Ford and Addy, Meader put Harper Chase, the daughter to the Chicago Rebels owner, front and center in the storyline as Addy's best friend. Harper is the heroine in Irresistible You and kick's off the series.
If you haven't yet read the series, then start with In Skates Trouble, otherwise, it can be read as a standalone with full enjoyment.
I had already read the first book in the series, Irresistible You (Harper/Remy) and was dying to back up and read the Prequel for Ford and Addy.
Ford Callaghan was a gorgeous twenty six year old that just won the Stanley Cup with the New Orleans Cajun Rajuns. On his tour home to Chicago with the cup, he met a sexy voice on an adjoining balcony in the dark of night. A voice he only knew as Addy.
Addison "Addy" Williams was a beautiful full figure model, business owner, and ex-wife. She had exited a bad marriage and was rebuilding her life on her own terms. Talking with the deep seductive no name voice on the next balcony was fun but thankfully she'd never meet him in person. She didn't have time for it and she definitely didn't need a man.
As a novella, In Skates Trouble was a quick and fairly light hearted read. It set the stage for a new series while at the same time addressing the baggage and challenges within Ford and Addy.
Although the focus was on Ford and Addy, Meader put Harper Chase, the daughter to the Chicago Rebels owner, front and center in the storyline as Addy's best friend. Harper is the heroine in Irresistible You and kick's off the series.
If you haven't yet read the series, then start with In Skates Trouble, otherwise, it can be read as a standalone with full enjoyment.
November 24, 2020
I was going back and forth on how I want to rate this book but ultimately I decided on 3,5 stars… because as much as there were many things I loved about it, there were also parts I wasn’t the biggest fan of… here are some of my thoughts and feelings in no particular order :) no spoilers :)
- the chemistry between Ford and Addison was off the charts :) I definitely saw and felt the spark between them from their very first, mysterious interaction :)
- the relationship, probably because it was a novella, felt rushed… things were happening way too fast for my liking…
- the writing style was really good… so even though I had my issues with this particular couple and their story, I am now very interested in picking up the full length sequels :)
All in all it wasn’t a bad book, but I’m not sure if it’s the perfect way to start this series… will be able to tell you more once I actually read the first one ;)
XOXO
A
- the chemistry between Ford and Addison was off the charts :) I definitely saw and felt the spark between them from their very first, mysterious interaction :)
- the relationship, probably because it was a novella, felt rushed… things were happening way too fast for my liking…
- the writing style was really good… so even though I had my issues with this particular couple and their story, I am now very interested in picking up the full length sequels :)
All in all it wasn’t a bad book, but I’m not sure if it’s the perfect way to start this series… will be able to tell you more once I actually read the first one ;)
XOXO
A
December 26, 2017
4.75 stars
I am so glad I remembered I had this on my Mountain o' Books! It's got hockey and a BBW heroine and I was in Romancelandia nirvana.
Ford (said hockey player) and Addy (fuller figured woman lingerie model) were sexy AF and entertaining as hell. They meet when Addy and her girlfriends are having a conversation on a hotel balcony and certain cunning....truths are shared, shall we say. Their immediate attraction is based on their voices and I found that sexy as all hell.
Addy's relatable and while a hot model, she's fairly balanced as a character and her self-image is normal - she has moments of insecurity but honestly I prefer that to a BBW romance where the heroine is obsessed with the size of her ass. I also adored that Ford was hot for her, all of her, just as she was.
The Firsts (meet, kiss, love scene) were fantastic, the dialogue funny and engaging. The obstacles to this relationship are resolved relatively easily and there's not alot of angst involved. I had read the other books in the series, I now have a bit of background for the main books, and I really enjoyed that. As far as this series is concerned, I can see myself re-reading this book most often.
If you love hockey romances and confident yet relatable BBW heroines, I would definitely recommend this.
For more reviews, visit
March 11, 2018
Oh wow. What a pleasant surprise this beauty turned out to be. When I randomly selected a book off of my kindle I had no idea I’d be blessed with a beauty like this AND the fact that it’s a sports romance is just an added bonus, I love me some sports romance.
Not only is this a sports romance but a forbidden romance too. One woman recently separated from her husband. One man currently working for said ex husband. When the man stumbles across the conversation between women on a hotel balcony he can’t help but feel instant attraction to one of the unforgettable voices, after a night of only talking and never seeing each other this man is in desperate need of finally meeting the woman that can get him hard by just her voice, and the rest, well you gotta read this beauty to find out because boy, you’re going to want to.
This storyline had me captivated, I couldn’t put it down until I had finished it all. I had to know what was going to happen and how it was going to end. The main reason I’m sat up at 4:06am writing this review. I just simply couldn’t put it down.
This is my first read by this author and definitely won’t be my last. I can’t wait to read more from this series.
Not only is this a sports romance but a forbidden romance too. One woman recently separated from her husband. One man currently working for said ex husband. When the man stumbles across the conversation between women on a hotel balcony he can’t help but feel instant attraction to one of the unforgettable voices, after a night of only talking and never seeing each other this man is in desperate need of finally meeting the woman that can get him hard by just her voice, and the rest, well you gotta read this beauty to find out because boy, you’re going to want to.
This storyline had me captivated, I couldn’t put it down until I had finished it all. I had to know what was going to happen and how it was going to end. The main reason I’m sat up at 4:06am writing this review. I just simply couldn’t put it down.
This is my first read by this author and definitely won’t be my last. I can’t wait to read more from this series.
Want to read
June 21, 2018💝FREE on Amazon & on iBooks today (6/21/2018)!💝
Blurb:
A USA Today bestseller.
He'll give her what she needs . . .
Addison Williams isn't looking for romance, but when she encounters an eavesdropping stranger on an adjoining hotel balcony, she figures she's due a little fun. She just hadn't reckoned on the "fun" escalating so quickly to "out of control." One minute she's flirting with a whiskey-graveled voice in the dark, the next that same voice is telling her to do things. Hot, wicked things.
Cup-winning hockey player Ford "Killer" Callaghan can't believe he let the anonymous woman who blew his mind slip away into the night. He'll track her down because once could never be enough—even if discovering her identity places her strictly out of bounds.
Stolen kisses. Secret hook-ups. Deliciously forbidden in every way. Can a passion that started in the dark find a lifetime of love in the light?
Originally published in Hot on Ice: A Hockey Romance Anthology, this sexy prequel to the Chicago Rebels hockey series features an older, curvy woman, a younger, driven hero, and a happily-ever-after you'll swoon over.
Blurb:
A USA Today bestseller.
He'll give her what she needs . . .
Addison Williams isn't looking for romance, but when she encounters an eavesdropping stranger on an adjoining hotel balcony, she figures she's due a little fun. She just hadn't reckoned on the "fun" escalating so quickly to "out of control." One minute she's flirting with a whiskey-graveled voice in the dark, the next that same voice is telling her to do things. Hot, wicked things.
Cup-winning hockey player Ford "Killer" Callaghan can't believe he let the anonymous woman who blew his mind slip away into the night. He'll track her down because once could never be enough—even if discovering her identity places her strictly out of bounds.
Stolen kisses. Secret hook-ups. Deliciously forbidden in every way. Can a passion that started in the dark find a lifetime of love in the light?
Originally published in Hot on Ice: A Hockey Romance Anthology, this sexy prequel to the Chicago Rebels hockey series features an older, curvy woman, a younger, driven hero, and a happily-ever-after you'll swoon over.
June 19, 2019
1.5*
I read book 1 before this one so I already saw all the Sweetness and love that is Ford and Addy. Had I not seen that I wouldn't have believed the love in this one at all. Novellas are tricky, most times I feel like parts of the story are missing. Ford and Addy read like just lots of sex from their first meeting to the end. Yes he went to his boss about their relationship but that couldn't be considered such a sacrifice for true love when he really expected her ex to act like an adult not trade him for the second worst team in the league. Even the epilogue with my favorite news ever just felt awkward. I understood the lust between them, just not the love.
Ford is 6 year younger than Addison
He's at the stage where he's ready to settle down so he hadn't had sex for a while.
She's a former plus size lingerie model with her ex husband being the owner of the team
He pursued her, no OW drama etc
Definitely wasn't pleased with this one.
I read book 1 before this one so I already saw all the Sweetness and love that is Ford and Addy. Had I not seen that I wouldn't have believed the love in this one at all. Novellas are tricky, most times I feel like parts of the story are missing. Ford and Addy read like just lots of sex from their first meeting to the end. Yes he went to his boss about their relationship but that couldn't be considered such a sacrifice for true love when he really expected her ex to act like an adult not trade him for the second worst team in the league. Even the epilogue with my favorite news ever just felt awkward. I understood the lust between them, just not the love.
Ford is 6 year younger than Addison
He's at the stage where he's ready to settle down so he hadn't had sex for a while.
She's a former plus size lingerie model with her ex husband being the owner of the team
He pursued her, no OW drama etc
Definitely wasn't pleased with this one.
July 30, 2019
4 'Bright Eyes' Stars!
Kate Meader is another of the authors I've wanted to read for a while. I saw she released a new book today which happens to be a spin-off of this series, so I decided to do this right and start with the Chicago Rebels books first. A novella is always a great way to see if I will like an author's writing and I do have to say, after reading In Skates Trouble, I throughly enjoyed it! I love me some hawt sportsman alpha and Ford did not disappoint. I loooooved him and Addy together (their chemistry was off-the-charts!!) and I cannot wait to read more about this crew of characters.
Kate Meader is another of the authors I've wanted to read for a while. I saw she released a new book today which happens to be a spin-off of this series, so I decided to do this right and start with the Chicago Rebels books first. A novella is always a great way to see if I will like an author's writing and I do have to say, after reading In Skates Trouble, I throughly enjoyed it! I love me some hawt sportsman alpha and Ford did not disappoint. I loooooved him and Addy together (their chemistry was off-the-charts!!) and I cannot wait to read more about this crew of characters.
August 2, 2017
3.5 rounded to 4 stars. Fun novella kick-off to new hockey series. Liked how the slight age difference was handled (she is older), and all around everyone acted pretty mature when they weren't consumed with lust. Wink. Wink.
Book source: Kindle freebie.
Book source: Kindle freebie.
September 22, 2017
Younger man older woman is one of my favorite tropes and Kate Meader has written a wonderful one.
If he wanted this woman, he was going to have to fight.
I absolutely adored Ford and how mature he was, that he wasn't a player who just wanted flings but was actually looking for something meaningful. Also I have a weakness for the name Ford which just made me love this big, dirty-talking and sexy hockey player even more. I also loved his confidence and how determined he was to have a relationship with Addie.
He was too young, too hot, too off limits.
I loved Addie and how determined she was at making something of her career. Her previous marriage had put her off of romance and I loved how she couldn’t keep her distance from Ford even when she tried.
“You’re filled with passion and ambition and appetites, and I’m the man to match you. I want a woman who knows who she is, who doesn’t need me to define her because she’s already her own person. My age, your ex, those facts are meaningless in the face of what we’ve started here. I think we could be pretty amazing together, Addison Williams.”
I loved their romance and their instant attraction. The romance was scorching from the get-go, neither able to keep their hands off each other and I really enjoyed watching it develop from intense lust to much deeper feelings neither could deny.
Not a lot of authors can write fulfilling novellas but Kate Meader does every time. I love how hot and sexy her books are and this book was another winner from her and the perfect introduction to a series I think I’m going to love just as much as her firefighters one. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
August 31, 2017
3.75
Sweet and raunchy. Smooth, flirt expert and dirty talking.
You can always count on this author for a steamy romance. While I admit there were too many sex scenes in this novella, I can't deny that it was pretty hot and I can't wait to get my hands on a copy of the first book.
Right winger for the New Orleans hockey's team Ford Callaghan is ready to let his player's days and the puck bunnies behind. He's searching for a relationship with more meaning. But it's sex that will bring famous curvy model Addison Williams into his life, first through a racy conversation he eavesdrop on between her and her friends and then a raunchy encounter where there's no touching (expect themselves) just talking about what they would like to do to each other if they were together instead of on each side of their hotel room's balcony.
Finding his sexy stranger the next day will not be the difficult part for the hero, but convincing her that he's serious about his feelings and to give him a chance at something more than sex is the real challenge. Add to that the fact that Addy ex-husband is Ford's boss (and a real prick) and you see the dilemma. But Ford is ready for anything to be with her and nothing is gonna stop him from claiming the woman he love.
It was not my favorite by Kate Meader because like I said, too much sex, but also because Addison's reaction toward the end seemed excessive and what she said to Ford then was pretty harsh. But this author always know how to create great tension between her characters and she have a writing style that hook me every time. I'm pretty sure that the Chicago Rebels series is one I'll have fun reading.
Sweet and raunchy. Smooth, flirt expert and dirty talking.
You can always count on this author for a steamy romance. While I admit there were too many sex scenes in this novella, I can't deny that it was pretty hot and I can't wait to get my hands on a copy of the first book.
Right winger for the New Orleans hockey's team Ford Callaghan is ready to let his player's days and the puck bunnies behind. He's searching for a relationship with more meaning. But it's sex that will bring famous curvy model Addison Williams into his life, first through a racy conversation he eavesdrop on between her and her friends and then a raunchy encounter where there's no touching (expect themselves) just talking about what they would like to do to each other if they were together instead of on each side of their hotel room's balcony.
Finding his sexy stranger the next day will not be the difficult part for the hero, but convincing her that he's serious about his feelings and to give him a chance at something more than sex is the real challenge. Add to that the fact that Addy ex-husband is Ford's boss (and a real prick) and you see the dilemma. But Ford is ready for anything to be with her and nothing is gonna stop him from claiming the woman he love.
It was not my favorite by Kate Meader because like I said, too much sex, but also because Addison's reaction toward the end seemed excessive and what she said to Ford then was pretty harsh. But this author always know how to create great tension between her characters and she have a writing style that hook me every time. I'm pretty sure that the Chicago Rebels series is one I'll have fun reading.
July 17, 2023
In Skates Trouble was a short, sweet and passionate read that didn't take me long to finish. I felt that the story was mostly physical (i.e. many steamy scenes, not much development), but I enjoyed it because I do like reading hot scenes once in a while - and in this book they were written particularly well with enough intensity.
And in the end, Meader managed to believably turn the lust and pure chemistry blazing between Addison and Ford (our main characters) into love. This book is a novella, but it still managed to pique my interest enough. I'll be watching out for the release of the first book in Kate Meader's Chicago Rebels series, Irresistibly You.
She’d fallen in love with a man who risked it all to stoke the embers of desire created that first night and turn those sparks into flames of love. Who saw what she couldn’t because her heart was closed to the possibilities. Who respected and cherished all she was. Ford “Killer” Callaghan slayed her every time, and she was happy to die in his arms every night.
And in the end, Meader managed to believably turn the lust and pure chemistry blazing between Addison and Ford (our main characters) into love. This book is a novella, but it still managed to pique my interest enough. I'll be watching out for the release of the first book in Kate Meader's Chicago Rebels series, Irresistibly You.
April 18, 2017
Wow! Loved this one! Kate Meader starts off with an erotic balcony scene (I was hooked by those first two chapters) and follows it through with a lovely romantic story of an unlikely to succeed couple falling in love and finding a way to be together despite the odds. Ford is one sexy man who recognizes he has found a woman worth risking it all for and does what it takes to convince Addison she's the one for him... and that he can be the man his sassy, confident woman needs. He shows her how good they are with a whole lot of hot, passionate sex. They can't keep their hands (and other parts) off of each other. Be prepared. This one is smokin' hot! The story is engaging, the characters are well-developed and easy to love, the dialogue is spot on with wit and style. Very enjoyable from start to finish! 4.5 stars
March 24, 2018
This one is a little difficult to review. I started it twice and couldn’t get past the opening scene on the balcony. It creeped me out - truth be told it still does.
But I read the ARC of Hooked on You this week and got to meet a lot of these characters. I adored Hooked on You and wanted to read the series.
This was somewhere between 3 and 4 stars. Too much sex - particularly so early in a relationship. I’m a slow-burn gal. On the other hand, there was plenty of romance and sweetness. Ford really put it all out there, and I loved the hell out of that. I’m looking forward to moving on in this series - and my feelings for Meader remain complicated.
But I read the ARC of Hooked on You this week and got to meet a lot of these characters. I adored Hooked on You and wanted to read the series.
This was somewhere between 3 and 4 stars. Too much sex - particularly so early in a relationship. I’m a slow-burn gal. On the other hand, there was plenty of romance and sweetness. Ford really put it all out there, and I loved the hell out of that. I’m looking forward to moving on in this series - and my feelings for Meader remain complicated.
August 24, 2017
I reviewed this over at The Book Queen's: http://www.tbqsbookpalace.com/2017/07...
Kate Meader doesn’t have time for an amateur hour “meet cute” and levels right up to the “meet scorch” in her latest, In Skates Trouble. Honestly, it’s a great opening scene. Hockey star Ford Callaghan is sitting on his hotel balcony and thinking about his feelings when he overhears the women on the next balcony talking about how terrible men are at giving oral sex. Ford is riveted, and who wouldn’t be? And, of course, since he knows his oral sex skills are amazing, he’s free to listen without feeling judged. Lol. After the girlfriends leave, Ford strikes up a conversation and joint masturbation session with Addy, the occupant of the adjoining room.
This sucker is only 140 pages, but there’s tons of drama and conflict jammed into it, with each character dealing with both internal and external conflicts. The external obstacles are pretty straightforward: she’s six years older, his team is owned by her ex-husband, and they don’t live in the same city. Ford is determined not to let any of this stand in their way and does everything he can to convince Addy that they have a future. She’s not sure. Great sex alone will not eliminate these problems.
As always with Kate Meader books, the interesting stuff is with the internal conflicts. Ford is a straight-shooter and a likeable guy. He struggles with the part he played in his older brother’s tragic death ten years earlier and how that impacts his relationship with the surviving family members. This was a moving and satisfying plot arc, one that gives him purpose and maturity.
Addy is a famous full-figured model starting her own lingerie line, and she doesn’t want to be distracted by a romance. The gender politics are interesting and thought-provoking. Addy made a lot of money off her beautiful face and figure, but her husband expected her to give up everything and only be a pretty face after their marriage. She resented it and is determined to make her own choices now that she’s free. This is a bit of conundrum for her, though, because she knows that her ex-husband can ruin Ford’s career if he finds out they’re dating. It’s a good dilemma because now Addy is in the power position. She doesn’t want to ruin Ford’s career or give up what she’s building for herself.
Ford thinks he’s more enlightened than her ex-husband, but there are some early warning signs that he has some learning to do. Ford is impressed at Addy’s passion for her new business, but then thinks, "after spending years fending off women looking to use him as a meal ticket, Addy’s independence and comfort in her own skin was more attractive to him than her perfect set of measurements." This is a problem. Being grateful she’s not a gold digger is not the same as fully supporting the independence, career goals, and aspirations of the woman he wants to date. It was satisfying watching Ford and Addy figure this stuff out. I wished the book was longer, because even though all the elements of the plot are strong, some of the action and resolution felt a little rushed.
I could wrap up right here. This was a solid, satisfying, and sexy read. But, the truth is, along with the Ford and Addy story, I couldn’t help but think about how this book is also representative of some of the issues Romancelandia has been talking about for a long time.
As a general rule, I don’t read a whole lot of sports romances. My best friend is a hockey fan, and I’ve even been to the Hockey Hall of Fame with her, so I was impressed at all of the ways Kate Meader accurately described the legend and lore around the Stanley Cup. There’s also a description of the sexism that Addy’s friend Harper will face when she takes over in her father’s hockey organization. Ford plays for New Orleans, and although he’d love to live closer to his family in Chicago, he knows Harper "was on tap to take over, but Ford--and just about everyone in the league--had their doubts about how a woman would fare in the cut-throat, testosterone-drenched world of professional hockey. It wasn’t as if this was pansy-assed football." That sentence just lies there. I get it. That’s how a hockey player would feel and think; but I can’t help but wonder if readers and authors have a responsibility to explicitly challenge sexist and homophobic thinking. I trust Kate Meader will be dealing with these questions in the next book in the series, which features Harper in the starring role, but does that let Ford off the hook in this one? Finally, in a world where we know more and more about CTE, doesn’t it seem odd that I’ve never once had a heroine in a sports romance question a hero’s commitment to a sport that could potentially harm his body or brain? In every romance I’ve ever read where one of the characters is a cop, there’s a reckoning about what that career choice means. But in these sports romances...nothing. How is that possible?
I live in Chicago, and it’s always so fun to read books that are set in the place where you live. I’ve been a fan of Kate Meader ever since the Hot in Chicago series. Being a local means that I know just how desperate Ford must have been to see Addy, because traveling from Bridgeport to Lake Freaking Forest for a booty call is nothing short of heroic. But, at the same time, with each successive book, it’s harder and harder for me to read them because this version of Chicago populated only by white people is just bizarre. Chicago is a stunningly diverse town. A guy on Twitter said about Chicago, “ have you BEEN to Chicago? We’ve got Bertie Bott’s Every Fucking Flavor of Human.” Fine, Ford is a white guy playing a sport dominated by white guys. But there’s no way that the rest of the city surrounding them wouldn’t be a vivid kaleidoscope of humanity. If I had one wish for Kate Meader’s romances, it would be that she could honestly show Chicago in all its complexity and beauty.
Finally, my ruminations about Chicago combined with that quote above about “pansy-assed football” brought me to another realization. I remember when women of color, both readers and authors, pointed out how completely unlikely it would be for football romances to have only white characters. Those concerns stuck with me, and I pledged to do better as a white reader by supporting sports romances that are more inclusive. But I’ve also noticed that there seems to be less football romances, with the overall trend being hockey, hockey, hockey---a sport that’s 93% white players. Obviously, no single author is responsible, but I can’t help but marvel at how the criticism of football romances ended up with publishing making a mass exodus to a mostly white sport. (If you think race isn’t an issue in sports romances, maybe ask yourself why there isn’t a flood of great basketball romances. I suspect it has everything to do with the fact that the NBA is 75% black men.) The state of sexism and racism in sports romance isn’t Kate Meader’s fault or responsibility, but for whatever reason, this is the book that clarified a lot of my thinking on this matter. Our country, our cities, our public institutions, schools, neighborhoods, and sports leagues were all shaped by segregation and injustice. Let’s not segregate our romances, too. I’m proud of the melting pot that is America, and I want to see that reflected in the romances I read.
Kate Meader doesn’t have time for an amateur hour “meet cute” and levels right up to the “meet scorch” in her latest, In Skates Trouble. Honestly, it’s a great opening scene. Hockey star Ford Callaghan is sitting on his hotel balcony and thinking about his feelings when he overhears the women on the next balcony talking about how terrible men are at giving oral sex. Ford is riveted, and who wouldn’t be? And, of course, since he knows his oral sex skills are amazing, he’s free to listen without feeling judged. Lol. After the girlfriends leave, Ford strikes up a conversation and joint masturbation session with Addy, the occupant of the adjoining room.
This sucker is only 140 pages, but there’s tons of drama and conflict jammed into it, with each character dealing with both internal and external conflicts. The external obstacles are pretty straightforward: she’s six years older, his team is owned by her ex-husband, and they don’t live in the same city. Ford is determined not to let any of this stand in their way and does everything he can to convince Addy that they have a future. She’s not sure. Great sex alone will not eliminate these problems.
As always with Kate Meader books, the interesting stuff is with the internal conflicts. Ford is a straight-shooter and a likeable guy. He struggles with the part he played in his older brother’s tragic death ten years earlier and how that impacts his relationship with the surviving family members. This was a moving and satisfying plot arc, one that gives him purpose and maturity.
Addy is a famous full-figured model starting her own lingerie line, and she doesn’t want to be distracted by a romance. The gender politics are interesting and thought-provoking. Addy made a lot of money off her beautiful face and figure, but her husband expected her to give up everything and only be a pretty face after their marriage. She resented it and is determined to make her own choices now that she’s free. This is a bit of conundrum for her, though, because she knows that her ex-husband can ruin Ford’s career if he finds out they’re dating. It’s a good dilemma because now Addy is in the power position. She doesn’t want to ruin Ford’s career or give up what she’s building for herself.
Ford thinks he’s more enlightened than her ex-husband, but there are some early warning signs that he has some learning to do. Ford is impressed at Addy’s passion for her new business, but then thinks, "after spending years fending off women looking to use him as a meal ticket, Addy’s independence and comfort in her own skin was more attractive to him than her perfect set of measurements." This is a problem. Being grateful she’s not a gold digger is not the same as fully supporting the independence, career goals, and aspirations of the woman he wants to date. It was satisfying watching Ford and Addy figure this stuff out. I wished the book was longer, because even though all the elements of the plot are strong, some of the action and resolution felt a little rushed.
I could wrap up right here. This was a solid, satisfying, and sexy read. But, the truth is, along with the Ford and Addy story, I couldn’t help but think about how this book is also representative of some of the issues Romancelandia has been talking about for a long time.
As a general rule, I don’t read a whole lot of sports romances. My best friend is a hockey fan, and I’ve even been to the Hockey Hall of Fame with her, so I was impressed at all of the ways Kate Meader accurately described the legend and lore around the Stanley Cup. There’s also a description of the sexism that Addy’s friend Harper will face when she takes over in her father’s hockey organization. Ford plays for New Orleans, and although he’d love to live closer to his family in Chicago, he knows Harper "was on tap to take over, but Ford--and just about everyone in the league--had their doubts about how a woman would fare in the cut-throat, testosterone-drenched world of professional hockey. It wasn’t as if this was pansy-assed football." That sentence just lies there. I get it. That’s how a hockey player would feel and think; but I can’t help but wonder if readers and authors have a responsibility to explicitly challenge sexist and homophobic thinking. I trust Kate Meader will be dealing with these questions in the next book in the series, which features Harper in the starring role, but does that let Ford off the hook in this one? Finally, in a world where we know more and more about CTE, doesn’t it seem odd that I’ve never once had a heroine in a sports romance question a hero’s commitment to a sport that could potentially harm his body or brain? In every romance I’ve ever read where one of the characters is a cop, there’s a reckoning about what that career choice means. But in these sports romances...nothing. How is that possible?
I live in Chicago, and it’s always so fun to read books that are set in the place where you live. I’ve been a fan of Kate Meader ever since the Hot in Chicago series. Being a local means that I know just how desperate Ford must have been to see Addy, because traveling from Bridgeport to Lake Freaking Forest for a booty call is nothing short of heroic. But, at the same time, with each successive book, it’s harder and harder for me to read them because this version of Chicago populated only by white people is just bizarre. Chicago is a stunningly diverse town. A guy on Twitter said about Chicago, “ have you BEEN to Chicago? We’ve got Bertie Bott’s Every Fucking Flavor of Human.” Fine, Ford is a white guy playing a sport dominated by white guys. But there’s no way that the rest of the city surrounding them wouldn’t be a vivid kaleidoscope of humanity. If I had one wish for Kate Meader’s romances, it would be that she could honestly show Chicago in all its complexity and beauty.
Finally, my ruminations about Chicago combined with that quote above about “pansy-assed football” brought me to another realization. I remember when women of color, both readers and authors, pointed out how completely unlikely it would be for football romances to have only white characters. Those concerns stuck with me, and I pledged to do better as a white reader by supporting sports romances that are more inclusive. But I’ve also noticed that there seems to be less football romances, with the overall trend being hockey, hockey, hockey---a sport that’s 93% white players. Obviously, no single author is responsible, but I can’t help but marvel at how the criticism of football romances ended up with publishing making a mass exodus to a mostly white sport. (If you think race isn’t an issue in sports romances, maybe ask yourself why there isn’t a flood of great basketball romances. I suspect it has everything to do with the fact that the NBA is 75% black men.) The state of sexism and racism in sports romance isn’t Kate Meader’s fault or responsibility, but for whatever reason, this is the book that clarified a lot of my thinking on this matter. Our country, our cities, our public institutions, schools, neighborhoods, and sports leagues were all shaped by segregation and injustice. Let’s not segregate our romances, too. I’m proud of the melting pot that is America, and I want to see that reflected in the romances I read.
September 1, 2018
Another Kindle freebie find. I am always on the lookout for new hockey books and this one wasn't a bad find.
Addison & Ford don't meet in the typical kind of way. Nope, they meet because Ford eavesdrops on her get-together with friends in her hotel room. Feeling a little dangerous, both Ford and Addison find some spoken naughtiness on the balconies of each others room - never actually getting a glimpse at each other. But Ford is determined to find this mystery woman, but he isn't prepared when he discovers that Addison is his bosses ex-wife.
Uh-oh
While this doesn't stop Ford, it give Addison pause and she pulls away. I really liked Ford's tenacity even though I will admit he came on a little strong at times. I also liked that Addison was a full-figured woman who designed her own line of lingerie. Go girl!
Since this was the opening novella to a series, it was just a little glimpse of the characters I'm assuming we'll meet. I'm not sure who the first book is actually about, but color me intrigued by the story. I just wonder if there will be actual hockey representation or if the author will just skim by as she does here.
Addison & Ford don't meet in the typical kind of way. Nope, they meet because Ford eavesdrops on her get-together with friends in her hotel room. Feeling a little dangerous, both Ford and Addison find some spoken naughtiness on the balconies of each others room - never actually getting a glimpse at each other. But Ford is determined to find this mystery woman, but he isn't prepared when he discovers that Addison is his bosses ex-wife.
Uh-oh
While this doesn't stop Ford, it give Addison pause and she pulls away. I really liked Ford's tenacity even though I will admit he came on a little strong at times. I also liked that Addison was a full-figured woman who designed her own line of lingerie. Go girl!
Since this was the opening novella to a series, it was just a little glimpse of the characters I'm assuming we'll meet. I'm not sure who the first book is actually about, but color me intrigued by the story. I just wonder if there will be actual hockey representation or if the author will just skim by as she does here.
November 21, 2017
I loved this! I loved the writing, the premise, and the execution. Ford was so lovable, and his dedication to Addison was perfect. Right from the start he had his heart on his sleeve when it came to Addison. And I loved Addy. I loved her inner strength, her humour, and that she didn't give in too easily. I also loved the friendship displayed here between Addison and Harper. Overall this was just a fun, enjoyable, easy read. I absolutely recommend if you are a fan of sports romance that is incredibly steamy and hot.
July 28, 2022
Found this on Amazon for free and needed to read it since I loved Dear Roomie ! Dear Roomie is on Spotify if you want to listen to it! Ramona Master did a fantastic job voicing Reid's dialogue. Seriously it was so good! Okay back to In Skates Trouble lol
This was a really quick read, could've done it in one sitting if I had the time. Definitely for 18+ due to spicy scenes, and they were right off the bat (not that that's a bad thing lol). I'd say there were some triggering moments, talk about car accident and a really brief mention of alcoholism, but other than that it was trigger free!
I enjoyed the plot of the book, it was pretty simple but I thought Meader executed it well. There wasn't a ton of detail in every moment, that's why it was a quick read, but I don't think it lacked anything! Well other than me wishing some of the scenes were spicier, that's personal preference! LOL
This is a standalone book with a HEA, two of my favorite tropes. The books that follow will have the characters that are mentioned in this first book. I also think Hockey tropes is my new favorite trope... Like yess please!
Okay anyways, I liked this book. I do want to read the series now, along with the other books of the Rookies Series by Kate Meader. Need to not be on a book buying ban first lol
This was a really quick read, could've done it in one sitting if I had the time. Definitely for 18+ due to spicy scenes, and they were right off the bat (not that that's a bad thing lol). I'd say there were some triggering moments, talk about car accident and a really brief mention of alcoholism, but other than that it was trigger free!
I enjoyed the plot of the book, it was pretty simple but I thought Meader executed it well. There wasn't a ton of detail in every moment, that's why it was a quick read, but I don't think it lacked anything! Well other than me wishing some of the scenes were spicier, that's personal preference! LOL
This is a standalone book with a HEA, two of my favorite tropes. The books that follow will have the characters that are mentioned in this first book. I also think Hockey tropes is my new favorite trope... Like yess please!
Okay anyways, I liked this book. I do want to read the series now, along with the other books of the Rookies Series by Kate Meader. Need to not be on a book buying ban first lol
November 28, 2017
Ford Callaghan: Youngest of three brothers. In a car accident at 16 that killed one brother who was just drafted to NHL and injured the other brother, stopping his hockey career. Ford was driving and still feels the guilt of that day. Current time, he just won the NHL cup on the New Orleans team.
Addison Williams: Famous plus-sized model who divorced 18 months prior from a controlling husband that owns the New Orleans NHL team and current boss to Ford. She’s relocating to Chicago to launch her own lingerie line. Friends with Harper Chase, Owner of Chicago Rebels NHL team.
These two meet when Ford eavesdrops on a personal conversation between Harper, Addie and another friend while discussing men not knowing how to go down on women properly. This sparks an immediate attraction and Ford pursues Addie relentlessly despite the consequences to his career when his boss finds out.
Ford and Addie are characters that were very easy to like. Both are genuinely nice people and only thought of the other after meeting. Addie did push away, but only to try to save Ford’s career. Addie is 6 years older.
Addison Williams: Famous plus-sized model who divorced 18 months prior from a controlling husband that owns the New Orleans NHL team and current boss to Ford. She’s relocating to Chicago to launch her own lingerie line. Friends with Harper Chase, Owner of Chicago Rebels NHL team.
These two meet when Ford eavesdrops on a personal conversation between Harper, Addie and another friend while discussing men not knowing how to go down on women properly. This sparks an immediate attraction and Ford pursues Addie relentlessly despite the consequences to his career when his boss finds out.
Ford and Addie are characters that were very easy to like. Both are genuinely nice people and only thought of the other after meeting. Addie did push away, but only to try to save Ford’s career. Addie is 6 years older.
April 15, 2017
4.5 stars
Loved In Skates Trouble!
The storyline was well written, the characters Ford "Killer" and Addison were likable, relatable and their chemistry was off the charts!
What a great start to the Chicago Rebels series!
Kate Meader is a very talented author who knows how to write engaging & entertaining storylines with strong, relatable characters that will entertain you from start to finish.
Can't wait for Harper and Remy's book next in Irresistible You
*Available in the charity anthology, Hot on Ice: A Hockey Romance Anthology. *
Amazon http://amzn.to/2jFsJg8
Nook http://bit.ly/2gC6ceJ
Kobo http://bit.ly/2ggBnyg
iBooks http://apple.co/2fOCS8g
*Thank you to the publisher via Netgalley for the advance copy*
Loved In Skates Trouble!
The storyline was well written, the characters Ford "Killer" and Addison were likable, relatable and their chemistry was off the charts!
What a great start to the Chicago Rebels series!
Kate Meader is a very talented author who knows how to write engaging & entertaining storylines with strong, relatable characters that will entertain you from start to finish.
Can't wait for Harper and Remy's book next in Irresistible You
*Available in the charity anthology, Hot on Ice: A Hockey Romance Anthology. *
Amazon http://amzn.to/2jFsJg8
Nook http://bit.ly/2gC6ceJ
Kobo http://bit.ly/2ggBnyg
iBooks http://apple.co/2fOCS8g
*Thank you to the publisher via Netgalley for the advance copy*
September 25, 2020
A lot of novellas are quick and leave the reader wanting, this is not one of those. Kate Meader turned out a brilliant introduction to her Chicago Rebels series. These are two of the side characters, but their romance sets the stage to so much more.
Our heroine has gotten her exhusband's hockey team in the settlement and our hero is one of her players. But they don't know that connection when they first meet on adjourning balconies. He overhears a conversation between her and her friends that leads him to want to get to know her.
A wonderful romance!
Our heroine has gotten her exhusband's hockey team in the settlement and our hero is one of her players. But they don't know that connection when they first meet on adjourning balconies. He overhears a conversation between her and her friends that leads him to want to get to know her.
A wonderful romance!
August 17, 2017
I don't usually like to read novellas but I really enjoyed this one. I really like this author and am looking forward to the next book in this series.
March 27, 2017
If you've ever read anything by Kate Meader, then you're in familiar territory but if you haven't, then hold on to your hats or get them blown off. IN SKATES TROUBLE has got all the fun stuff that will keep you turning the pages very quickly - sizzling passion, snarky and witty dialogue, well-developed characters and a really enjoyable story. This story was so hot it should come with a warning label.
Ford Callaghan is not the stereotypical meathead jock who's all brawn and no brains. He's very mature and focused, knows what he wants and is willing to compromise his job security to get it.
For Addison Williams, getting out of her marriage was the first step to reclaiming her life and her career after life as a trophy wife and she's definitely not interested in giving up her new-found independence for another man, especially a younger man, even if he rocks her world sexually.
Surprisingly, Ford is nothing like she expects and he just keeps poking holes in her defenses, but her ex is his boss and will destroy Ford's career in revenge, so it's best to not get involved with him. But with Ford willing to give it all up for her, will she be bold enough to choose to be with him?
My expectations every time I pick up a book by Ms. Meader are high and I am yet to be disappointed. I enjoyed the creative first meeting between the characters and the fact that the focus of this story was not the age difference between them or Addy's body stats, but about two people with explosive chemistry deciding if more was worth fighting for.
There is a lot to enjoy in these few pages and if anything, has made me eager for the rest of the series.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.
Want more? Subscribe to my Newsletter on The Sassy Bookster.
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Ford Callaghan is not the stereotypical meathead jock who's all brawn and no brains. He's very mature and focused, knows what he wants and is willing to compromise his job security to get it.
For Addison Williams, getting out of her marriage was the first step to reclaiming her life and her career after life as a trophy wife and she's definitely not interested in giving up her new-found independence for another man, especially a younger man, even if he rocks her world sexually.
Surprisingly, Ford is nothing like she expects and he just keeps poking holes in her defenses, but her ex is his boss and will destroy Ford's career in revenge, so it's best to not get involved with him. But with Ford willing to give it all up for her, will she be bold enough to choose to be with him?
My expectations every time I pick up a book by Ms. Meader are high and I am yet to be disappointed. I enjoyed the creative first meeting between the characters and the fact that the focus of this story was not the age difference between them or Addy's body stats, but about two people with explosive chemistry deciding if more was worth fighting for.
There is a lot to enjoy in these few pages and if anything, has made me eager for the rest of the series.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.
Want more? Subscribe to my Newsletter on The Sassy Bookster.
Follow me on Twitter | Tumblr | Bloglovin’.
Like my page on Facebook.
June 8, 2023
I Love BBW Stories
I loved both of the Protagonists in this sweet story. Ford because he was swoon worthy, and Addy because the BBW reminded me of me 40 years ago... Yes, this short story gave me many feel-good memories.
This Prequel got it done in only 164 pages. I got a little whiplash with Ford's career change, but then again, I knew it was coming.
Ford: "—maybe he could bring some of that magic to the second worst franchise in the league."
Thank you very much Kate Meader, you gave me Glorious Dialogue. Along with the additional pleasure of Perfect Flow of Sentences avoiding He Said/She Said verbs. I was in readers heaven. Excellent Read
I loved both of the Protagonists in this sweet story. Ford because he was swoon worthy, and Addy because the BBW reminded me of me 40 years ago... Yes, this short story gave me many feel-good memories.
This Prequel got it done in only 164 pages. I got a little whiplash with Ford's career change, but then again, I knew it was coming.
Ford: "—maybe he could bring some of that magic to the second worst franchise in the league."
Thank you very much Kate Meader, you gave me Glorious Dialogue. Along with the additional pleasure of Perfect Flow of Sentences avoiding He Said/She Said verbs. I was in readers heaven. Excellent Read
January 31, 2018
Lots of insta-love going on here and it didn't quite work for me. I also had an attitude with the way that the heroine and her friends talked about men. It rubbed me the wrong way but I'm glad that I finished the book because I'm now ready to tackle the full-length novels in this series. So there's that. In the end, things worked out for this couple and that was great but I'm hoping the rest of the series pans out better for me. We'll see.
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