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Wynn Hockey #1
Play to Win
Meet the Wynns — a hockey dynasty built on family, money, and drama. From USA Today bestselling author Kelly Jamieson, the first novel in a new series is a total win-win.
After an injury forced Théo Wynn to give up professional hockey, he turned to his second love: numbers. Now, as the general manager of his grandfather’s NHL team, the Los Angeles Condors, Théo is dying to prove to the rest of his family — especially the brother who betrayed him — that he’s just as successful as the rest of them. If only Théo had a gorgeous woman on his arm to complete the picture...
Lacey Olson needs to get out of Las Vegas right now, thanks to her no-good, crooked brother. When a handsome stranger who’s out partying with friends comes to her rescue in the cocktail lounge where she works, they strike up a conversation that leads to a crazy plan: her leaving with Théo for L.A. tomorrow. A few drinks later, the idea gets even crazier: a quickie marriage that works for both of them.
But back in California, Lacey immediately turns Théo’s precise, well-ordered life into one big beach party. And before long, she’s tempting him with her smart mouth, sexy body, and sunny charm. The last thing Théo needs is a real relationship to distract him. Because he only plays to win...
After an injury forced Théo Wynn to give up professional hockey, he turned to his second love: numbers. Now, as the general manager of his grandfather’s NHL team, the Los Angeles Condors, Théo is dying to prove to the rest of his family — especially the brother who betrayed him — that he’s just as successful as the rest of them. If only Théo had a gorgeous woman on his arm to complete the picture...
Lacey Olson needs to get out of Las Vegas right now, thanks to her no-good, crooked brother. When a handsome stranger who’s out partying with friends comes to her rescue in the cocktail lounge where she works, they strike up a conversation that leads to a crazy plan: her leaving with Théo for L.A. tomorrow. A few drinks later, the idea gets even crazier: a quickie marriage that works for both of them.
But back in California, Lacey immediately turns Théo’s precise, well-ordered life into one big beach party. And before long, she’s tempting him with her smart mouth, sexy body, and sunny charm. The last thing Théo needs is a real relationship to distract him. Because he only plays to win...
269 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 19, 2019
240 people are currently reading
1439 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Jamieson
136 books2,647 followersKelly Jamieson is a USA Today bestselling author of over 70 romance novels and novellas. Her writing has been described as “emotionally complex,” “sweet and satisfying,” and “blisteringly sexy.” She likes black coffee, white wine and high heels…and of course cheering on her Winnipeg Jets during hockey season! She loves hearing from readers, so please visit her website at www.kellyjamieson.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 300 reviews
January 25, 2020
For some reason this book does not work for me. The marriage of convinience is not something new and usually is my favorite romance story. This is my second book by Miss Jamieson.
What does not work for me is the chemistry between the characters. I do not feel the chemistry nor their character development.
Overall I do finish the book but I do not enjoy this book
2 stars
What does not work for me is the chemistry between the characters. I do not feel the chemistry nor their character development.
Overall I do finish the book but I do not enjoy this book
2 stars
February 14, 2019
Play to Win is the first book to a new hockey series by Kelly Jamieson. The Wynn family is pretty large and almost all of them are involved with the hockey world in some way. The family dynamic is pretty rocky with the Grandfather owning one hockey team and the father of our hero owning another. Family members are suing each other, step parents are accused of gold digging, petty jealousy driving others. The Wynn family will definitely keep things interesting in this series.
This first book focuses on Theo Wynn. He had a very short career as a hockey player until an injury crushed those dreams. His intellect that he was bullied for as a kid will be the key to keep him in the hockey world. Making a risky move, he accepts his grandfather's job proposal to manage his hockey team at the risk of his father's anger. This will be the key to him showing his family what he can really do with that intellect mind of his.
The night before Theo leaves Las Vegas, he rescues the waitress at the club. Lacey is being harassed by some thugs after her for her brothers gambling debt. There is just something about Lacey that has him doing things he never would, like marrying her and taking her with him to California to prove to his family that he doesn't care that his brother stole his girlfriend.
What starts out as a fake marriage soon turns into more but Theo and Lacey are both pretty jaded about life. They struggle with trying to fight their attraction and keeping things platonic. They both are starting new lives and think they can only depend on themselves. This book is seeing that struggle and how they overcome all the past hurt and take the risks to their heart to find happiness in each other.
You meet so many of the Wynn family and I"m already invested in seeing them set aside the anger and hurt. Lacey was one step in that direction. She brought a couple of these family members closer together. I look forward to more of their story in the upcoming series.
This first book focuses on Theo Wynn. He had a very short career as a hockey player until an injury crushed those dreams. His intellect that he was bullied for as a kid will be the key to keep him in the hockey world. Making a risky move, he accepts his grandfather's job proposal to manage his hockey team at the risk of his father's anger. This will be the key to him showing his family what he can really do with that intellect mind of his.
The night before Theo leaves Las Vegas, he rescues the waitress at the club. Lacey is being harassed by some thugs after her for her brothers gambling debt. There is just something about Lacey that has him doing things he never would, like marrying her and taking her with him to California to prove to his family that he doesn't care that his brother stole his girlfriend.
What starts out as a fake marriage soon turns into more but Theo and Lacey are both pretty jaded about life. They struggle with trying to fight their attraction and keeping things platonic. They both are starting new lives and think they can only depend on themselves. This book is seeing that struggle and how they overcome all the past hurt and take the risks to their heart to find happiness in each other.
You meet so many of the Wynn family and I"m already invested in seeing them set aside the anger and hurt. Lacey was one step in that direction. She brought a couple of these family members closer together. I look forward to more of their story in the upcoming series.
June 11, 2019
I loved it!
I'm sooo bummed because I had a really nice review written days ago and somehow I deleted it? :(
Its taken me days to get over my anger...so here's what I can remember writing...
This is a new series by my go-to hockey-romance writer, Kelly Jamieson. When it comes to hockey, this lady can do no wrong in my book. Either she's extremely knowledgeable about the sport, or she's an excellent researcher--or both! And I appreciate that.
This series centers around hockey's legendary Wynn family. There's a ton of them, and I don't remember all their names or how they're related (have no fear, at the beginning of the book there is a glossary or family tree, I guess, so that makes it easier). This one is about 28? year old sexy nerd Theo Wynn.
Theo was forced to give up his professional hockey career before it barely started due to a serious eye injury. He knew he wanted to stay in the game somehow, so he turned to his other love--numbers/statistics. Theo is brilliant when it comes to statistical analysis, and he uses this approach as the assistant GM of the Vegas team.
When his grandpa (owner of an L.A. based team) makes him an offer that he feels he can't refuse--to become the GM of that team, he decides to accept even though it might cause repercussions in the extended family. (His dad owns a rival team in L.A., --which is coached by Theo's uncle--who are both feuding with the grandpa. Hang on, because this Wynn family is mighty disfunctional).
Anyhow, on his last night in Vegas, while reluctantly partying with friends, Theo meets the heroine--pretty and vivacious Lacey Olson. Lacey's a server at one of the hotels in Vegas and waits on Theo and his friends. They hit it off; they chat outside; they flirt a little. When two thugs come into the bar and give Lacey a hard time (her gambling brother owes them a debt) , causing her to lose her job, it's time to put Vegas behind her. But where can she go? After a night of drinking just a bit too much, Theo does something completely out of character. Without stopping to analyze the pros and cons, he invites Lacey to come with him to L.A.. Better yet--why don't we get married before we get there? O..M..G..
I loved it! Theo and Lacey seem like such a mismatch--he's conservative and analytical, not what you would call carefree. Lacey is sunny and fun loving and positive. A people person. They do have the hots for each other, but Theo feels that the marriage should be temporary, that Lacey will go back to Vegas when the situation with the thugs and her brother gets settled. (Did I mention that Theo has a past with a girlfriend who cheated on him--with his brother? You know love doesn't last...) Why start something physical when she'll be leaving after the annulment?
Will they fall in love? Will Lacey move back to Vegas or will Theo admit his feelings before that happens? Is this a romance novel or what?
I loved everything about this one. I loved getting to know the crazy Wynn family and their dynamics. There are a lot of plot threads left dangling, some that won't be resolved for a while. But I don't care, I'm hooked, and I'm following this series. The next book is about Theo's bad boy brother J.P.--which I've already read and it's even better than this one if possible.
Great start to a new fun series!
5 big stars
I'm sooo bummed because I had a really nice review written days ago and somehow I deleted it? :(
Its taken me days to get over my anger...so here's what I can remember writing...
This is a new series by my go-to hockey-romance writer, Kelly Jamieson. When it comes to hockey, this lady can do no wrong in my book. Either she's extremely knowledgeable about the sport, or she's an excellent researcher--or both! And I appreciate that.
This series centers around hockey's legendary Wynn family. There's a ton of them, and I don't remember all their names or how they're related (have no fear, at the beginning of the book there is a glossary or family tree, I guess, so that makes it easier). This one is about 28? year old sexy nerd Theo Wynn.
Theo was forced to give up his professional hockey career before it barely started due to a serious eye injury. He knew he wanted to stay in the game somehow, so he turned to his other love--numbers/statistics. Theo is brilliant when it comes to statistical analysis, and he uses this approach as the assistant GM of the Vegas team.
When his grandpa (owner of an L.A. based team) makes him an offer that he feels he can't refuse--to become the GM of that team, he decides to accept even though it might cause repercussions in the extended family. (His dad owns a rival team in L.A., --which is coached by Theo's uncle--who are both feuding with the grandpa. Hang on, because this Wynn family is mighty disfunctional).
Anyhow, on his last night in Vegas, while reluctantly partying with friends, Theo meets the heroine--pretty and vivacious Lacey Olson. Lacey's a server at one of the hotels in Vegas and waits on Theo and his friends. They hit it off; they chat outside; they flirt a little. When two thugs come into the bar and give Lacey a hard time (her gambling brother owes them a debt) , causing her to lose her job, it's time to put Vegas behind her. But where can she go? After a night of drinking just a bit too much, Theo does something completely out of character. Without stopping to analyze the pros and cons, he invites Lacey to come with him to L.A.. Better yet--why don't we get married before we get there? O..M..G..
I loved it! Theo and Lacey seem like such a mismatch--he's conservative and analytical, not what you would call carefree. Lacey is sunny and fun loving and positive. A people person. They do have the hots for each other, but Theo feels that the marriage should be temporary, that Lacey will go back to Vegas when the situation with the thugs and her brother gets settled. (Did I mention that Theo has a past with a girlfriend who cheated on him--with his brother? You know love doesn't last...) Why start something physical when she'll be leaving after the annulment?
Will they fall in love? Will Lacey move back to Vegas or will Theo admit his feelings before that happens? Is this a romance novel or what?
I loved everything about this one. I loved getting to know the crazy Wynn family and their dynamics. There are a lot of plot threads left dangling, some that won't be resolved for a while. But I don't care, I'm hooked, and I'm following this series. The next book is about Theo's bad boy brother J.P.--which I've already read and it's even better than this one if possible.
Great start to a new fun series!
5 big stars
March 13, 2019
With “Play To Win” Kelly Jamieson launches her Wynn Hockey series, in which Theo Wynn, son and grandson of hockey royalty, wants to prove himself off the ice.
Hockey is in his blood, so when an injury cuts his career short Theo decides to take an assistant management role with the Las Vegas NHL team. But when his grandfather offers him the GM position in his team, Theo can’t resist the chance to prove his numbers’ skills to his family, particularly his backstabbing brother. He’s only lacking a beautiful woman by his side.
Cocktail waitress Lacey Olson was just doing her job when her brother’s bookies came to collect his debt. Fortunately a sexy stranger intervenes. Unfortunately she now needs a new job and a change in address.
Theo can’t help himself and continues to help her out by offering her to take her with him to California. As they get to know each other over one too many drinks they also decide to get a quickie Vegas marriage, and what starts as a fake relationship turns into a connection neither can deny.
Set against the inner working of hockey management and the sunny LA beaches, the story is a pleasant opposites attract romance of two people who find in each other exactly what they need and would have imagined.
Even though Theo and Lacey’s interactions feel a bit forced right after they get hitched, perhaps because they truly don’t know each other, eventually their relationship flows easily with sweet sexiness. The secondary characters, mostly comprising of the very dysfunctional Wynn clan, are numerous and therefor get a bit lost and I found it difficult to remember who’s who, but there’s certainly enough drama to fuel the entire Wynn Hockey series.
Play To Win is book #1 of the Wynn Hockey series by Kelly Jamieson. It is a standalone contemporary hockey romance, told by both points of view with a happy ending.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2UA0cqG
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Stalk me on FaceBook * Instagram * More reviews
Hockey is in his blood, so when an injury cuts his career short Theo decides to take an assistant management role with the Las Vegas NHL team. But when his grandfather offers him the GM position in his team, Theo can’t resist the chance to prove his numbers’ skills to his family, particularly his backstabbing brother. He’s only lacking a beautiful woman by his side.
Cocktail waitress Lacey Olson was just doing her job when her brother’s bookies came to collect his debt. Fortunately a sexy stranger intervenes. Unfortunately she now needs a new job and a change in address.
Theo can’t help himself and continues to help her out by offering her to take her with him to California. As they get to know each other over one too many drinks they also decide to get a quickie Vegas marriage, and what starts as a fake relationship turns into a connection neither can deny.
Set against the inner working of hockey management and the sunny LA beaches, the story is a pleasant opposites attract romance of two people who find in each other exactly what they need and would have imagined.
Even though Theo and Lacey’s interactions feel a bit forced right after they get hitched, perhaps because they truly don’t know each other, eventually their relationship flows easily with sweet sexiness. The secondary characters, mostly comprising of the very dysfunctional Wynn clan, are numerous and therefor get a bit lost and I found it difficult to remember who’s who, but there’s certainly enough drama to fuel the entire Wynn Hockey series.
Play To Win is book #1 of the Wynn Hockey series by Kelly Jamieson. It is a standalone contemporary hockey romance, told by both points of view with a happy ending.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2UA0cqG
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Stalk me on FaceBook * Instagram * More reviews
March 22, 2019
One thing is for certain Kelly Jamieson knows how to start off a series with a bang and the Wynn family series is the epitome of a dysfunctional family who despite everything going on apparently still cares and loves one another. Play to Win sets up this new series, but in addition it gives readers an opposites attract reverse romance and Ms. Jamieson does it with humor, emotion, and flair. I loved every minute of this wild and crazy ride.
I’ll be the first to admit that when Ms. Jamieson included a family tree of sorts at the beginning of this book, I thought to myself I’m never going to keep all these people straight and I was a bit intimidated to start this book, but given my long history of reading this author I trusted her to guide me through this crazy, mixed-up family and I’m so glad I didn’t turn away from this book.
On the eve of leaving one Las Vegas for a job managing his grandfather’s NHL team, Theo Wynn is out celebrating with some of his friends from the team and is instantly enamored by Lacey, their waitress at one bar. When he realizes that two other customers appear to make her nervous and then she is fired for something she didn’t do, he invites her to join them and that begins their impetuous relationship starting with Theo being spontaneous, something he’s never done, and ending with them married and Lacey agreeing to going to California with Theo.
The chemistry between Theo and Lacey dripped off the page and the fact they agreed not to sleep together since their arrangement was temporary only made it even more heady, but it also gave them time to really get to know one another something I greatly appreciated. I love that Lacey encouraged Theo to not be so rigid in his live and that Theo not only gave Lacey the luxury of some downtime something she hadn’t had since she was 15, but also he wanted her to find her passion in life. There was something so intoxicating about their friendship that turned into more over time. That’s not to say they didn’t have their ups and downs because they did, but because of the way they got together they needed those bumps in the road to make them see that what they had together was special.
Theo’s family…wow, that’s all I’m going to say, it is big, loud, and all kinds of dysfunctional and honestly I can’t wait for more books in this series to see if some of my questions are answered in regards to the bad blood between so many different people.
Fantastically written with characters that leap on the page an into your heart, Kelly Jamieson has come out strong with Play to Win and if this is indicative of what we can expect from the Wynn series it is going to be a wild and amazing ride!
April 4, 2019
I was really enjoying this for the first couple of chapters; Lacey was enjoyable despite her circumstances and Theo had potential. And then I felt like it was trying too hard. There were several instances of the characters "staying woke" and using vernacular that I thought teenagers would use. I felt like I was listening to mature adults trying to sound "cool". The plot was okay, your typical fake marriage trope, but the conflict was pretty weak. Lacey gave up way too easily.
May 26, 2022
2.5 stars. Fake marriage.
Not much more to say.
Not much more to say.
May 19, 2020
Play to Win was the first book in the Wynn Hockey series by Kelly Jamieson.
I loved meeting the Wynn family. Wow, what a crazy, messed up family. There were tons of them, all hockey related, and they fire each other, allegedly steal from each other, allegedly cheat on each other, and sue each other. But they were still one big happy family - well... one big family at least!
Theo Wynn was our first. He was a former NHL player who got derailed due to an injury, but he always loved the analytics of it anyway, so he rebuilt his career and now he had the opportunity he was working towards, to be a GM. And now he had it. For his grandfather’s team. Who was being sued by Theo’s father (yup, the son was suing the father). On his last night in Vegas as an Assistant GM, he met Lacey. And next thing he knew, he was starting a new job...with a new wife.
Lacey was born and raised in Vegas. Her mother died when she was young and it was just Lacey and her twin brother, who unfortunately brought trouble to her door, until a sexy stranger offered her a temporary out.
And then the story began. No spoilers since most of that was in the book description. Jamieson then took us through the details of the new relationship, the new job, the new town, and the crazy family! It was well written and well developed with depth and complexity.
I also loved the analytical hockey perspective. I love hockey so the games and team building within a book are awesome, but the author’s back office perspective on hockey was intriguing and kept me turning the pages quickly.
All in all, it was a quick and fun read with great characters and the perfect introduction to the series. JT, Theo’s brother, is up next in In It To Win it and I can’t wait!
I loved meeting the Wynn family. Wow, what a crazy, messed up family. There were tons of them, all hockey related, and they fire each other, allegedly steal from each other, allegedly cheat on each other, and sue each other. But they were still one big happy family - well... one big family at least!
Theo Wynn was our first. He was a former NHL player who got derailed due to an injury, but he always loved the analytics of it anyway, so he rebuilt his career and now he had the opportunity he was working towards, to be a GM. And now he had it. For his grandfather’s team. Who was being sued by Theo’s father (yup, the son was suing the father). On his last night in Vegas as an Assistant GM, he met Lacey. And next thing he knew, he was starting a new job...with a new wife.
Lacey was born and raised in Vegas. Her mother died when she was young and it was just Lacey and her twin brother, who unfortunately brought trouble to her door, until a sexy stranger offered her a temporary out.
And then the story began. No spoilers since most of that was in the book description. Jamieson then took us through the details of the new relationship, the new job, the new town, and the crazy family! It was well written and well developed with depth and complexity.
I also loved the analytical hockey perspective. I love hockey so the games and team building within a book are awesome, but the author’s back office perspective on hockey was intriguing and kept me turning the pages quickly.
All in all, it was a quick and fun read with great characters and the perfect introduction to the series. JT, Theo’s brother, is up next in In It To Win it and I can’t wait!
May 29, 2019
I've been a fan of Kelly Jamieson's for several years especially her BAYARD and ACES HOCKEY series so when I heard that she was coming out with another hockey series I was all over it.
PLAY TO WIN is the first in the brand new WYNN HOCKEY series, and boy does it start us off right. Not only do we have two wonderful Main Characters, Lacey and Théo, but we meet The Wynn family and boy oh boy you can tell they are just going to be a ton of fun getting to know!
Théo and Lacey aren't your typical couple where they meet and fall in love and then they get married, nope not at all....and quite honestly that probably makes this story fun to read. You can feel the chemistry between the two right from the start which is always a plus, but there's more than just the chemistry you feel the pain of what each of them are struggling with as well, and quite honestly that makes you never want the story to end. Kelly Jamieson did a wonderful job with not only giving us a great story but a story that has us wanting more of the crazy Wynn family. I for one cannot wait for IN IT TO WIN IT, which is due out in July 2019.
Great start to the new series, I love Théo and Lacey!!! This is an easy book to recommend to all lovers of sports romance as well as fans of Kelly Jamieson. Happy Reading!!!
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
You can see this and other Reviews I have written along with various cover reveals, excerpts, and giveaways here Nadine's Obsessed with Books
Merged review:
I've been a fan of Kelly Jamieson's for several years especially her BAYARD and ACES HOCKEY series so when I heard that she was coming out with another hockey series I was all over it.
PLAY TO WIN is the first in the brand new WYNN HOCKEY series, and boy does it start us off right. Not only do we have two wonderful Main Characters, Lacey and Théo, but we meet The Wynn family and boy oh boy you can tell they are just going to be a ton of fun getting to know!
Théo and Lacey aren't your typical couple where they meet and fall in love and then they get married, nope not at all....and quite honestly that probably makes this story fun to read. You can feel the chemistry between the two right from the start which is always a plus, but there's more than just the chemistry you feel the pain of what each of them are struggling with as well, and quite honestly that makes you never want the story to end. Kelly Jamieson did a wonderful job with not only giving us a great story but a story that has us wanting more of the crazy Wynn family. I for one cannot wait for IN IT TO WIN IT, which is due out in July 2019.
Great start to the new series, I love Théo and Lacey!!! This is an easy book to recommend to all lovers of sports romance as well as fans of Kelly Jamieson. Happy Reading!!!
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
PLAY TO WIN is the first in the brand new WYNN HOCKEY series, and boy does it start us off right. Not only do we have two wonderful Main Characters, Lacey and Théo, but we meet The Wynn family and boy oh boy you can tell they are just going to be a ton of fun getting to know!
Théo and Lacey aren't your typical couple where they meet and fall in love and then they get married, nope not at all....and quite honestly that probably makes this story fun to read. You can feel the chemistry between the two right from the start which is always a plus, but there's more than just the chemistry you feel the pain of what each of them are struggling with as well, and quite honestly that makes you never want the story to end. Kelly Jamieson did a wonderful job with not only giving us a great story but a story that has us wanting more of the crazy Wynn family. I for one cannot wait for IN IT TO WIN IT, which is due out in July 2019.
Great start to the new series, I love Théo and Lacey!!! This is an easy book to recommend to all lovers of sports romance as well as fans of Kelly Jamieson. Happy Reading!!!
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
You can see this and other Reviews I have written along with various cover reveals, excerpts, and giveaways here Nadine's Obsessed with BooksMerged review:
I've been a fan of Kelly Jamieson's for several years especially her BAYARD and ACES HOCKEY series so when I heard that she was coming out with another hockey series I was all over it.
PLAY TO WIN is the first in the brand new WYNN HOCKEY series, and boy does it start us off right. Not only do we have two wonderful Main Characters, Lacey and Théo, but we meet The Wynn family and boy oh boy you can tell they are just going to be a ton of fun getting to know!
Théo and Lacey aren't your typical couple where they meet and fall in love and then they get married, nope not at all....and quite honestly that probably makes this story fun to read. You can feel the chemistry between the two right from the start which is always a plus, but there's more than just the chemistry you feel the pain of what each of them are struggling with as well, and quite honestly that makes you never want the story to end. Kelly Jamieson did a wonderful job with not only giving us a great story but a story that has us wanting more of the crazy Wynn family. I for one cannot wait for IN IT TO WIN IT, which is due out in July 2019.
Great start to the new series, I love Théo and Lacey!!! This is an easy book to recommend to all lovers of sports romance as well as fans of Kelly Jamieson. Happy Reading!!!
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
February 14, 2019
I just found Kelly Jamieson’s books and, boy, am I glad. Especially anyone about hockey. This is no different except that I know that there are more to come! The only hard part of any new series is learning about all of the new characters and how they interconnect. This is no different, it’s about a large and complicated family. There’s always more to learn about the Wynn family dynamics while looking through the layers. I wasn’t sure how I would like or relate to Theo, as he’s in the management side. But after learning about his past and that he played professional hockey until injured, made me realize that there was more to him than I realized. I really liked Lacey and admired her. She was honest and up front, didn’t play games. This was an easy read. I didn’t want it to end. Can’t wait for JP’s story.
February 9, 2019
The Wynn family is going to be one wild ride of a series and I am absolutely loving it already. Theo is just...damn, and Lacey is exactly what he didn’t know he needs. Their story had me smiling, crying a little, and swooning a whole lot. A great way to kick off something new, from an author who is one of my absolute favorites!
December 27, 2020
Que cosa tan más aburriiiiiddaaaaaaaaaaa.
Y lo leí dos veces jajá
Y lo leí dos veces jajá
April 24, 2020
That was fun!!!
I read this book based on a recommendation from a book friend and I'm glad I did! It was exactly what I needed. A sweet book about a last minute marriage between strangers that turns into something more. Of course, there's a lot more to the story but I don't want to give up all the good stuff. Plus, I'm moving on to the next book. 😁
I read this book based on a recommendation from a book friend and I'm glad I did! It was exactly what I needed. A sweet book about a last minute marriage between strangers that turns into something more. Of course, there's a lot more to the story but I don't want to give up all the good stuff. Plus, I'm moving on to the next book. 😁
February 18, 2019
Play to Win is the first book in a new series called Wynn Hockey. It focuses on the Wynn family, who all have some sort of hockey skill in their blood.
Theo Wynn used to be a hockey player before an injury led him to leave the team and focus on his own career instead. His grandfather unexpectedly offers him the chance to manage one of the family's hockey teams, and he accepts. The night before he starts his job, he meets a waitress named Lacey. He sees her being harassed by the people her brother owes a gambling debt to, and he goes to her defense. Sparks fly, and by the end of the night, they get a marriage certificate in Vegas. It's pretty convenient for both of them since 1) Theo doesn't want to look like a loser in front of his family members since his brother is now dating his ex and 2) Lacey was in danger from the men that attacked her.
Unlike a lot of existing reviewers, I haven't read any of Kelly Jamieson's previous books so I didn't know what to expect. Play to Win sounded like an interesting read at first since I love reading sports romances (hello every single MZ book + Off Campus), but I didn't like this one as much as I could have. The sports aspect this book is marketed on (It's called Wynn Hockey) wasn't really showed or focused on, it was mainly romance. I understand that the main character isn't a hockey player, but a manager, but most of his scenes were more so focused on Lacey rather than the actual team. I also would have thought there would be better climax than the one that was in the book, and I really didn't feel like it was enough to be considered as a climax, y'know? I also didn't feel particularly attached to any of the characters or the plot itself, but I'm not giving this too low because I didn't really have any issues with the writing! I just would have preferred more of the sports aspect that was promised.
Theo Wynn used to be a hockey player before an injury led him to leave the team and focus on his own career instead. His grandfather unexpectedly offers him the chance to manage one of the family's hockey teams, and he accepts. The night before he starts his job, he meets a waitress named Lacey. He sees her being harassed by the people her brother owes a gambling debt to, and he goes to her defense. Sparks fly, and by the end of the night, they get a marriage certificate in Vegas. It's pretty convenient for both of them since 1) Theo doesn't want to look like a loser in front of his family members since his brother is now dating his ex and 2) Lacey was in danger from the men that attacked her.
Unlike a lot of existing reviewers, I haven't read any of Kelly Jamieson's previous books so I didn't know what to expect. Play to Win sounded like an interesting read at first since I love reading sports romances (hello every single MZ book + Off Campus), but I didn't like this one as much as I could have. The sports aspect this book is marketed on (It's called Wynn Hockey) wasn't really showed or focused on, it was mainly romance. I understand that the main character isn't a hockey player, but a manager, but most of his scenes were more so focused on Lacey rather than the actual team. I also would have thought there would be better climax than the one that was in the book, and I really didn't feel like it was enough to be considered as a climax, y'know? I also didn't feel particularly attached to any of the characters or the plot itself, but I'm not giving this too low because I didn't really have any issues with the writing! I just would have preferred more of the sports aspect that was promised.
March 19, 2019
Play to Win is the first book in the Wynn Hockey by Kelly Jamieson. The series is more like a family saga and is not focused on a team as I was expecting. Of course, the family owns a hockey team and most of the characters' occupations have something to do with it, but most of the focus is on the family dynamics. The author was kind enough to include a short introduction of each member of the Wynn family before the story began. The sad thing (for me) is that I am very bad with names and I couldn't remember much. Still, I think that the readers will find it very helpful.
There is a lot of family drama going on in this book, so be prepared! We have some good and healthy relationships like Theo with his mom and some unhealthy like Theo with his brother. There is also the family feud and I don't see that part of the family dynamics to be solved easily. Thankfully we have lots of books to go. I liked Everly a lot and I am glad to see that the third book in the series will be hers. We got a little tease about her and her man in this story, but things didn't go smoothly and I want to see her warm up to the guy who seemed so interested in her. The couple of the second book was also teased and some of the events from the blurb of the second book happened by the end of this one. I love that the author revealed already some of the plotlines for the next books. It shows that she has thought about the series' direction beforehand.
Theo and Lacey had a lot of ups and dows. Mostly ups since they managed to get married 5 hours after they met each other. Lacey was one of the few sane and logical characters and actually helped Theo with his family. She helped in JP's redemption and that means a huge deal because he will be the hero of the next book. I can't exactly root for a guy I don't like. I also liked that Lacey could stand up for herself and wanted to be her own person instead of taking whatever Theo was giving her, emotionally and financially.
Overall, Play to Win was a winner. It served well as the first book in a series where we knew no one and it introduced us perfectly to the rest of the family. Theo and Lacey had a good romance and I was happy with the book.
There is a lot of family drama going on in this book, so be prepared! We have some good and healthy relationships like Theo with his mom and some unhealthy like Theo with his brother. There is also the family feud and I don't see that part of the family dynamics to be solved easily. Thankfully we have lots of books to go. I liked Everly a lot and I am glad to see that the third book in the series will be hers. We got a little tease about her and her man in this story, but things didn't go smoothly and I want to see her warm up to the guy who seemed so interested in her. The couple of the second book was also teased and some of the events from the blurb of the second book happened by the end of this one. I love that the author revealed already some of the plotlines for the next books. It shows that she has thought about the series' direction beforehand.
Theo and Lacey had a lot of ups and dows. Mostly ups since they managed to get married 5 hours after they met each other. Lacey was one of the few sane and logical characters and actually helped Theo with his family. She helped in JP's redemption and that means a huge deal because he will be the hero of the next book. I can't exactly root for a guy I don't like. I also liked that Lacey could stand up for herself and wanted to be her own person instead of taking whatever Theo was giving her, emotionally and financially.
Overall, Play to Win was a winner. It served well as the first book in a series where we knew no one and it introduced us perfectly to the rest of the family. Theo and Lacey had a good romance and I was happy with the book.
March 18, 2019
I was really sad when Jamieson's Aces Hockey series ended, but am quite excited that it cleared a path for her new series. We are still in the world of professional hockey, but now we get to see from the point of view of players, coaches, owners, and management. In addition to that, we have the Wynn family, and let me tell you, this family rivals the Ewings of Dallas fame when it comes to delicious family drama.
The stars of this book are Théo Wynn, who in taking the job as GM of his grandfather's team, re-enters the dysfunctional world of the Wynns, and Lacey Olson, who was in over her head thanks to her gambling addict brother. Both Théo and Lacey had suffered a few tough years filled with many losses. Therefore, they could connect to one another in more than a physical way. Though there were sparks galore between the two, it was easy to see this paring had some substance.
The marriage of convenience trope is one I enjoy, and the union between these two started in a classic Vegas way. A fun start and a genuine effort to get to know each other plus great chemistry made me buy into this coupling. They were good together, and Lacey was able to easily slide into Théo's world. They just fit together really well, and I know I was rooting for this fauxmance to turn into the real thing.
Both Lacey and Théo were great characters too. I was so happy to see Lacey getting to finally live. She spent so many years caring for her sick mother and addict brother, that she had to give up on her own dreams and enjoyment. With Théo, she was able to chase an actual career, make friends, and have some fun. And, Théo. He was such an interesting hero. He had the body of a professional athlete, but was a nerdy numbers guy. What a perfect combination. And, I must admit, I found him even more attractive, when he was in his element, crunching numbers and negotiating trades.
As this was the first book in a family-centered series, a lot of time was dedicated to catching us up on all the family entanglements. And, wow! This was one really complicated family. I totally appreciated the family tree Jamieson supplied us with, because it helped me get some things straight before everyone made an appearance in the story. The bits and pieces of the background conflicts piqued my interest and have me looking forward to getting the full story.
Overall: A solid start to a series filled with compelling characters, messy entanglements, and LOTS of delectable family drama.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
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The stars of this book are Théo Wynn, who in taking the job as GM of his grandfather's team, re-enters the dysfunctional world of the Wynns, and Lacey Olson, who was in over her head thanks to her gambling addict brother. Both Théo and Lacey had suffered a few tough years filled with many losses. Therefore, they could connect to one another in more than a physical way. Though there were sparks galore between the two, it was easy to see this paring had some substance.
The marriage of convenience trope is one I enjoy, and the union between these two started in a classic Vegas way. A fun start and a genuine effort to get to know each other plus great chemistry made me buy into this coupling. They were good together, and Lacey was able to easily slide into Théo's world. They just fit together really well, and I know I was rooting for this fauxmance to turn into the real thing.
Both Lacey and Théo were great characters too. I was so happy to see Lacey getting to finally live. She spent so many years caring for her sick mother and addict brother, that she had to give up on her own dreams and enjoyment. With Théo, she was able to chase an actual career, make friends, and have some fun. And, Théo. He was such an interesting hero. He had the body of a professional athlete, but was a nerdy numbers guy. What a perfect combination. And, I must admit, I found him even more attractive, when he was in his element, crunching numbers and negotiating trades.
As this was the first book in a family-centered series, a lot of time was dedicated to catching us up on all the family entanglements. And, wow! This was one really complicated family. I totally appreciated the family tree Jamieson supplied us with, because it helped me get some things straight before everyone made an appearance in the story. The bits and pieces of the background conflicts piqued my interest and have me looking forward to getting the full story.
Overall: A solid start to a series filled with compelling characters, messy entanglements, and LOTS of delectable family drama.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
March 21, 2019
Love + sunshine + family + hockey… oh so good!
I’m addicted to this author’s hockey romances so I couldn’t have been more excited to read this, the first in the new Wynn Hockey series. Hunky hockey players and complicated family made for a great start!
Theo was a numbers guy now. After an injury forced him to quit playing hockey he was still part of the game but now was behind the scenes. He was taking his grandfather’s offer of managing his own NHL team, even as he worried about the ripple this was going to cause in his big, and opinionated, family. A chance meeting meant he had someone to help him navigate those choppy waters. Lacey was having a bad night – a really, really bad night. Theo came to her rescue but soon she was going to return the favour…
Theo and Lacey were easy to like as they met by chance and rolled with the punches with all that followed. Lacey was warm and free-spirited despite having her feet firmly on the ground. Theo was more somber, and infinitely more serious but he, along with all who met her, melted under Lacey’s outgoing personality. It was a light-hearted read with drama galore and friends and family to liven it all up!
While my eyes may have glazed over when Theo talked about his management strategies, I am firmly hooked in the Wynn family web. I can’t wait for more!
February 26, 2019
4 Star Review of Play To Win (Wynn Hockey #1) by Kelly Jamieson
Playing to Win is the first in the latest series from Kelly Jamieson, Wynn Hockey. This is Theo Wynn and Lacey Olson’s story and I really enjoyed it. Theo is a retired hockey player who now manages his grandfather’s NHL team, the Los Angeles Condors, in opposition to the one his father owns.
Theo has demons and he is determined to make a success of his new job. When Lacey gets into trouble at her waitressing job, Theo rushes in to rescue her. From there common sense goes flying out the window and Theo and Lacey embark on an adventure that soon sets the cat among the pigeons.
The family dynamics of the Wynn family had my head spinning, dysfunctional is not a strong enough word to describe this family and their antics.
I really liked Theo and Lacey, they were great characters and I wanted them to succeed; the chemistry between them simply smoulders. Will they both realize the potential their relationship has or run before it has a chance to flourish? Can something fake turn into something real?
One click and find out.
Playing to Win is the first in the latest series from Kelly Jamieson, Wynn Hockey. This is Theo Wynn and Lacey Olson’s story and I really enjoyed it. Theo is a retired hockey player who now manages his grandfather’s NHL team, the Los Angeles Condors, in opposition to the one his father owns.
Theo has demons and he is determined to make a success of his new job. When Lacey gets into trouble at her waitressing job, Theo rushes in to rescue her. From there common sense goes flying out the window and Theo and Lacey embark on an adventure that soon sets the cat among the pigeons.
The family dynamics of the Wynn family had my head spinning, dysfunctional is not a strong enough word to describe this family and their antics.
I really liked Theo and Lacey, they were great characters and I wanted them to succeed; the chemistry between them simply smoulders. Will they both realize the potential their relationship has or run before it has a chance to flourish? Can something fake turn into something real?
One click and find out.
March 3, 2019
Gambling addiction... Las Vegas bookies... A cheating ex... A dysfunctional family... A drunken Vegas wedding... the perfect ingredients for a perfect love.
Théo Wynn has stolen my heart. I love his brains, his quirkiness and his huge heart! He has taken the #1 spot on my KJ hero list. Lacey Olsen is his perfect partner. I love her free spirit, her loyalty, and her ability to see the best in everyone. These two characters truly compliment each other. There was such an easiness in their relationship. They just fit. I don’t know if I’ve ever read a story where I felt the characters belong together as much as these two. They definitely had sexual chemistry, but that took a backseat to the way they seemed to just naturally make the other content. A fantastic start to a new series!!!
I am so excited for the rest of the books in this series!! The Wynn family has definitely piqued my interest!!
***ARC provided for an honest review
Théo Wynn has stolen my heart. I love his brains, his quirkiness and his huge heart! He has taken the #1 spot on my KJ hero list. Lacey Olsen is his perfect partner. I love her free spirit, her loyalty, and her ability to see the best in everyone. These two characters truly compliment each other. There was such an easiness in their relationship. They just fit. I don’t know if I’ve ever read a story where I felt the characters belong together as much as these two. They definitely had sexual chemistry, but that took a backseat to the way they seemed to just naturally make the other content. A fantastic start to a new series!!!
I am so excited for the rest of the books in this series!! The Wynn family has definitely piqued my interest!!
***ARC provided for an honest review
March 30, 2019
Ohhh. What a complicated bunch the Wynn family is. So many relationships--she said, he said, back stabbing, hurt feelings, divorce, and overall love. Wow what a way to introduce a series! Theo's Wynn is a hot ex-hockey geek and he has no time for women. But he does has a soft heart. So when he sees Lacy in a bind, they enter into an agreement that helps her out and helps him distract his nosey family for as long as necessary.
This is a slow burn strangers to friends to lovers story. It gets messy and tangled but ends up just perfect. This author writes some great hockey stories. This one is the back story and behind the scenes of the hockey world but I suspect we will see some of Theo team and family in action real soon.
Can't wait to read more!
*Complimentary copy provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
This is a slow burn strangers to friends to lovers story. It gets messy and tangled but ends up just perfect. This author writes some great hockey stories. This one is the back story and behind the scenes of the hockey world but I suspect we will see some of Theo team and family in action real soon.
Can't wait to read more!
*Complimentary copy provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
February 24, 2019
Another New Hockey Series By Kelly Jamieson brings us another new Hockey Dynasty with the Wynn Family. We meet the very handsome very analytical Theo Wynn. A former player himself now finds himself becoming the GM of a NHL team run by his Grandfather but he also comes from a family that’s always in turmoil. What he never expects is Lacey a young cocktail waitress who finds herself in trouble and he comes to her resecue.
Theo & Lacey have the most fun unconventional relationship but what they never expected was the chemistry that comes along with it. They need each other for different reason but when the one most unexpected reason keeps them together you hope they will find that HEA
Theo & Lacey have the most fun unconventional relationship but what they never expected was the chemistry that comes along with it. They need each other for different reason but when the one most unexpected reason keeps them together you hope they will find that HEA
March 24, 2019
So I must confess that I am a little in love with Theo and his family. They are a frigging hoot!
This entire book was a joy to read, from the first meeting, to swooping in and saving, the road trip, Orgasm stop anyone? living together, Lacey's light attracting so many people. The way that Theo and Lacey complement each other. I loved reading everything, except the misunderstanding portion of the book, knew it was going to happen, just wish there had been a different way of moving them forward. But chapter 26th? OMG did I laugh! and I admit to a little crying. Love the Wynn family and cant wait for more!
This entire book was a joy to read, from the first meeting, to swooping in and saving, the road trip, Orgasm stop anyone? living together, Lacey's light attracting so many people. The way that Theo and Lacey complement each other. I loved reading everything, except the misunderstanding portion of the book, knew it was going to happen, just wish there had been a different way of moving them forward. But chapter 26th? OMG did I laugh! and I admit to a little crying. Love the Wynn family and cant wait for more!
March 19, 2019
3.5 Stars
It’s always a great day when a new hockey romance from Kelly Jamieson hits my Kindle. Play to Win is the first book in her series about a hockey dynasty and there is so much to like about it!
First and foremost, if you’re a hockey fan and a romance fan and you look for the two to come together in a story in a smart way, Kelly is the author for you. I’m pretty sure I sound like a broken record, but she always integrates the game so well into her story that hockey and romance go hand in hand. There are so many sports romances that you could easily remove any reference to sports and it wouldn’t affect the story at all. Not so with Jamieson’s books, especially with Play to Win, where readers get a look at the inner workings of hockey management.
In Play to Win, Jamieson lays the groundwork for a dynastic series. The Wynns are hockey royalty and legendary for being just a bit crazy. When Theo is hired by his granddad, Bob, to be general manager of the California Condors it creates a new rift between Bob and his sons Matthew and Mark. Throw in Theo’s much younger aunt and uncles, a brother that betrayed him, and a cousin or two and you’re looking at an endless amount of down and dirty storytelling to come. Truthfully, I couldn’t get enough of this family and wanted more, more, more.
I loved Theo. A former athlete who suffered a career-ending injury, he’s returned to his first love: numbers, statistics, and analytics. He’s carrying quite a bit of insecurity on his shoulders, especially after he finds his girlfriend and brother in a compromising position. Already a workaholic who feels he needs to prove himself, Theo digs deeper into his career with no time for fun or spontaneity. Being in his head (as with all of Jamieson’s books, Play to Win is told in alternating 1st person POVs} was so much fun-if you like stats, which I do. Honestly, I could have read about Corsi and Fenwick and the salary cap until I was blue in the face. That Jamieson made it entertaining and educational was just perfect. Truthfully, I know I can always count on her for this.
Lacey Olson is the woman who turns Theo’s life upside down. They meet in a rooftop bar in Las Vegas where she’s working as a waitress and a few hours later they’re married. It’s this sort of spontaneity that she brings to Theo’s life, pulling him out of his shell, leading him to reconnect with his family. That it’s his idea to get married proves just how big an impact she has on him. Lacey has her own family issues, which result in her saying yes to Theo and running away to California. But, what I really liked about these two as a couple is that they’re perfect for each other despite being at completely different places in their lives. Theo has a plan, Lacey is just deciding on one.
While there’s a bit of angst towards the end, the road to romance between Theo and Lacey is pretty cut and dry. They’re great together, but I found them a bit boring as a headline couple. I would have loved a little more conflict instead of feeling like much of their interaction was just a repeat of the chapter before.
Overall, I do recommend this book. I honestly can’t wait to read more about the Wynn family.
3.5 stars. Heat level: 3.5
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for honest feedback.
It’s always a great day when a new hockey romance from Kelly Jamieson hits my Kindle. Play to Win is the first book in her series about a hockey dynasty and there is so much to like about it!
First and foremost, if you’re a hockey fan and a romance fan and you look for the two to come together in a story in a smart way, Kelly is the author for you. I’m pretty sure I sound like a broken record, but she always integrates the game so well into her story that hockey and romance go hand in hand. There are so many sports romances that you could easily remove any reference to sports and it wouldn’t affect the story at all. Not so with Jamieson’s books, especially with Play to Win, where readers get a look at the inner workings of hockey management.
In Play to Win, Jamieson lays the groundwork for a dynastic series. The Wynns are hockey royalty and legendary for being just a bit crazy. When Theo is hired by his granddad, Bob, to be general manager of the California Condors it creates a new rift between Bob and his sons Matthew and Mark. Throw in Theo’s much younger aunt and uncles, a brother that betrayed him, and a cousin or two and you’re looking at an endless amount of down and dirty storytelling to come. Truthfully, I couldn’t get enough of this family and wanted more, more, more.
I loved Theo. A former athlete who suffered a career-ending injury, he’s returned to his first love: numbers, statistics, and analytics. He’s carrying quite a bit of insecurity on his shoulders, especially after he finds his girlfriend and brother in a compromising position. Already a workaholic who feels he needs to prove himself, Theo digs deeper into his career with no time for fun or spontaneity. Being in his head (as with all of Jamieson’s books, Play to Win is told in alternating 1st person POVs} was so much fun-if you like stats, which I do. Honestly, I could have read about Corsi and Fenwick and the salary cap until I was blue in the face. That Jamieson made it entertaining and educational was just perfect. Truthfully, I know I can always count on her for this.
Lacey Olson is the woman who turns Theo’s life upside down. They meet in a rooftop bar in Las Vegas where she’s working as a waitress and a few hours later they’re married. It’s this sort of spontaneity that she brings to Theo’s life, pulling him out of his shell, leading him to reconnect with his family. That it’s his idea to get married proves just how big an impact she has on him. Lacey has her own family issues, which result in her saying yes to Theo and running away to California. But, what I really liked about these two as a couple is that they’re perfect for each other despite being at completely different places in their lives. Theo has a plan, Lacey is just deciding on one.
While there’s a bit of angst towards the end, the road to romance between Theo and Lacey is pretty cut and dry. They’re great together, but I found them a bit boring as a headline couple. I would have loved a little more conflict instead of feeling like much of their interaction was just a repeat of the chapter before.
Overall, I do recommend this book. I honestly can’t wait to read more about the Wynn family.
3.5 stars. Heat level: 3.5
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for honest feedback.
May 27, 2019
This is a brand new series from Kelly Jamieson though I'm not as well read from her I like her writing and characters. This focuses on the Wynn Dynasty, a hockey family through in through, team owners, players, coaches just generally involved in the sport. That is an interesting concept, it involves a lot of new names to intro and backgrounds for the future books. With some family drama and issues along the way, intriguing family dynamics that fuel part of who Theo is. Lacey has her own family issues that come up with her brother.
I gotta say I loved that this was more on the management side of hockey, sports romance is general are more focused on the players and game play. So having Theo as a general manager was great, all the trades, drafts, managing and behind the scenes. The author knows her hockey which is good if you're a fan. Theo wants to rebuild and change things with the Condors, he's statistician but trade and focuses on that stats but doesn't ignore other aspects. I think it's pretty brilliant to look at stats how to manage a team and it all comes together the thought process was smart. It reminds of the Coyotes GM.
Theo and Lacey started out unusual with a quickie Vegas wedding to help Lacey escape a mob her brother owes money from and all that. They are both different one is rigid and a planner, the other more carefree and light. It's a nice balance. But they get along well, the sexual tension is there but they don't act on it. They are married friends without benefits till tthe sparks become so overheated. They have the physical down pat now is the emotional aspect. Lacey helps calm Theo and appreciates him, Theo makes Lacey feel cherished which is also good.
With Theo having burned before he can often have a one track mind and with him trying to prove himself in his new job he forgets what's more important. He'll have to step it up if he doesn't wanna lose Lacey for good. This was s great start to this hockey family! So curious on what happens next or who will end up with who. I'm sure we will see more of Theo and Lacey is the upcoming books. I enjoyed this one a lot, lots behind the scenes hockey and a heartfelt romance.
*** ARC provided for an honest review ***
I gotta say I loved that this was more on the management side of hockey, sports romance is general are more focused on the players and game play. So having Theo as a general manager was great, all the trades, drafts, managing and behind the scenes. The author knows her hockey which is good if you're a fan. Theo wants to rebuild and change things with the Condors, he's statistician but trade and focuses on that stats but doesn't ignore other aspects. I think it's pretty brilliant to look at stats how to manage a team and it all comes together the thought process was smart. It reminds of the Coyotes GM.
Theo and Lacey started out unusual with a quickie Vegas wedding to help Lacey escape a mob her brother owes money from and all that. They are both different one is rigid and a planner, the other more carefree and light. It's a nice balance. But they get along well, the sexual tension is there but they don't act on it. They are married friends without benefits till tthe sparks become so overheated. They have the physical down pat now is the emotional aspect. Lacey helps calm Theo and appreciates him, Theo makes Lacey feel cherished which is also good.
With Theo having burned before he can often have a one track mind and with him trying to prove himself in his new job he forgets what's more important. He'll have to step it up if he doesn't wanna lose Lacey for good. This was s great start to this hockey family! So curious on what happens next or who will end up with who. I'm sure we will see more of Theo and Lacey is the upcoming books. I enjoyed this one a lot, lots behind the scenes hockey and a heartfelt romance.
*** ARC provided for an honest review ***
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February 22, 2019
Who doesn’t love family drama, loads of sexual tension, hockey and a romance? If you do, then Play to Win is a book you should check out. This is the first book in the Wynn Hockey series and I am absolutely hooked!
Théo is out celebrating his new job with some buddies when he meets waitress Lacey. There is an instant connection and attraction between the two. He soon realizes that Lacey is in trouble, all thinks to her gambling addicted twin brother, to make matters worse, she has also lost her job and her brothers stolen all her money. Théo is moving back to California and back to all his family, one person he is not looking forward to see his is younger brother, who also happened to steal his girlfriend. To help solve both their problems he suggests that Lacey and him should get married. They are in Vegas after all, what is the worst that could happen?
I loved both Théo and Lacey, they aren’t perfect people, their families are both full of drama (especially Théo’s) but these two are a perfect fit for each other. He is organized, OCD, and hates deviating from his schedule. She is the opposite, she just goes with the flow. Their relationship was able to grow over a span of a few months and it went from a fake marriage to more. Despite all the crazy family drama I have fallen in love with the entire Wynn family and their friends. I can’t wait for the rest of this series.
Théo is out celebrating his new job with some buddies when he meets waitress Lacey. There is an instant connection and attraction between the two. He soon realizes that Lacey is in trouble, all thinks to her gambling addicted twin brother, to make matters worse, she has also lost her job and her brothers stolen all her money. Théo is moving back to California and back to all his family, one person he is not looking forward to see his is younger brother, who also happened to steal his girlfriend. To help solve both their problems he suggests that Lacey and him should get married. They are in Vegas after all, what is the worst that could happen?
I loved both Théo and Lacey, they aren’t perfect people, their families are both full of drama (especially Théo’s) but these two are a perfect fit for each other. He is organized, OCD, and hates deviating from his schedule. She is the opposite, she just goes with the flow. Their relationship was able to grow over a span of a few months and it went from a fake marriage to more. Despite all the crazy family drama I have fallen in love with the entire Wynn family and their friends. I can’t wait for the rest of this series.
February 12, 2019
Anytime you get a book from Kelly you know you are going to enjoy it, especially if it is about hot hockey players at least to me anyway..I hate when her series ends so I was excited that we started a new series with the Wyn family and my friends have fun trying to keep all of them on track. So we meet Theo who unfortunately for him, his hockey career ended but he has a new venture to follow, the LA Condors, he now working for his colorful grandpa who I personally enjoyed. Anyhoo he meets Lacey who is struggling with her gambling addict of a brother (but she still loves him and wants to help him) Theo and Lacey get together for a make believe marriage but as you and I know those are the best and never stay make believe..Enjoy!
Rcvd an ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions.
Rcvd an ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions.
March 18, 2019
You guys …. The Wynn family puts the functional in dysfunctional and it works hilariously well! I’m still laughing days later ………… I mean there’s so much frikking laughter! I cannot wait for the rest of the family to get their story! Like I want them yesterday!!!
So obviously this was a total #win for me. It was easy and fun and not over the top in the least. It was absolutely relatable, and you cannot help but want to be their friend!
”Meet the Wynns—a hockey dynasty built on family, money, and drama.” truer words have never been written!
So obviously this was a total #win for me. It was easy and fun and not over the top in the least. It was absolutely relatable, and you cannot help but want to be their friend!
”Meet the Wynns—a hockey dynasty built on family, money, and drama.” truer words have never been written!
March 18, 2019
4 stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 19, 2019
After an injury forced Théo Wynn to give up professional hockey, he turned to his second love: numbers. Now, as the general manager of his grandfather’s NHL team, the Los Angeles Condors, Théo is dying to prove to the rest of his family—especially the brother who betrayed him—that he’s just as successful as the rest of them. If only Théo had a gorgeous woman on his arm to complete the picture. . . .
Lacey Olson needs to get out of Las Vegas right now, thanks to her no-good, crooked brother. When a handsome stranger who’s out partying with friends comes to her rescue in the cocktail lounge where she works, they strike up a conversation that leads to a crazy plan: her leaving with Théo for L.A. tomorrow. A few drinks later, the idea gets even crazier: a quickie marriage that works for both of them.
But back in California, Lacey immediately turns Théo’s precise, well-ordered life into one big beach party. And before long, she’s tempting him with her smart mouth, sexy body, and sunny charm. The last thing Théo needs is a real relationship to distract him. Because he only plays to win. . . .
••••••••••••
REVIEW: PLAY TO WIN is the first instalment in Kelly Jamieson’s contemporary, adult WYNN HOCKEY erotic, hockey, romance series focusing on the Wynn family, owners and operators of the NHL’s California Condors, and the Long Beach Golden Eagles. This is twenty-eight year old, California Condors’ General Manager Theo Wynn, and twenty-four year old Lacey Olson’s story line.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Theo and Lacey) PLAY TO WIN follow the building relationship and marriage of convenience between twenty eight year old, California Condors’ GM Theo Wynn, and twenty-four year old Lacey Olson. Lacey’s brother Chris is in trouble; gambling debts that are now threatening Lacey’s life, threats that see our heroine fired on the night she meets Theo Wynn. Theo Wynn is about to embark on a new career in the NHL but one last night of partying finds our hero coming to the rescue of a woman who isn’t prepared for what happens next. Needing to make an impression upon his return home to California, Theo offers Lacey a ‘marriage of convenience’ in return for helping Lacey as her life spirals out of control. What ensues is the quick Vegas wedding, followed by a move to the coast wherein Lacey will come face to face with the dysfunctional Wynn family, and all of their crazy in-laws, out-laws, and philandering ways.
Theo Wynn has never recovered from his brother’s betrayal, a betrayal that cut deep into the family hold.Marrying Lacey gave Theo a ‘one-up’ on his brother, a brother who was once his best friend and more. Lacey Olson has struggled to make ends meet since the death of her beloved mother but Lacey never expected to find herself on the run, with a gorgeous husband but no promise of a happily ever after.
The relationship between Lacey and Theo is one of immediate attraction but threats to Lacey’s safety and life find Theo guardian and protect of the woman with whom he will fall in love. Theo doesn’t do relationships, not since the betrayal that destroyed his life, but meeting Lacey Olson meant the possibility of a future but a possibility that comes with issues of trust.The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are introduced to a large cast of very colorful secondary and supporting characters including Theo’s brother JP; his ex-girlfriend Emma; and Lacey’s embattled brother Chris.
PLAY TO WIN is a story about a dysfunctional family of hockey players, team owners, and their significant others. There is plenty of fun and drama; secrets and lies; history, affairs, marriages and divorce. The premise will captivate your attention; the characters are energetic; the romance is passionate and intense. The hockey premise is limited to behind the scenes as Theo Wynn struggles to rebuild the California Condors, a team owned by his grandfather but in direct competition with his father’s Long Beach Golden Eagles.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 19, 2019
After an injury forced Théo Wynn to give up professional hockey, he turned to his second love: numbers. Now, as the general manager of his grandfather’s NHL team, the Los Angeles Condors, Théo is dying to prove to the rest of his family—especially the brother who betrayed him—that he’s just as successful as the rest of them. If only Théo had a gorgeous woman on his arm to complete the picture. . . .
Lacey Olson needs to get out of Las Vegas right now, thanks to her no-good, crooked brother. When a handsome stranger who’s out partying with friends comes to her rescue in the cocktail lounge where she works, they strike up a conversation that leads to a crazy plan: her leaving with Théo for L.A. tomorrow. A few drinks later, the idea gets even crazier: a quickie marriage that works for both of them.
But back in California, Lacey immediately turns Théo’s precise, well-ordered life into one big beach party. And before long, she’s tempting him with her smart mouth, sexy body, and sunny charm. The last thing Théo needs is a real relationship to distract him. Because he only plays to win. . . .
••••••••••••
REVIEW: PLAY TO WIN is the first instalment in Kelly Jamieson’s contemporary, adult WYNN HOCKEY erotic, hockey, romance series focusing on the Wynn family, owners and operators of the NHL’s California Condors, and the Long Beach Golden Eagles. This is twenty-eight year old, California Condors’ General Manager Theo Wynn, and twenty-four year old Lacey Olson’s story line.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Theo and Lacey) PLAY TO WIN follow the building relationship and marriage of convenience between twenty eight year old, California Condors’ GM Theo Wynn, and twenty-four year old Lacey Olson. Lacey’s brother Chris is in trouble; gambling debts that are now threatening Lacey’s life, threats that see our heroine fired on the night she meets Theo Wynn. Theo Wynn is about to embark on a new career in the NHL but one last night of partying finds our hero coming to the rescue of a woman who isn’t prepared for what happens next. Needing to make an impression upon his return home to California, Theo offers Lacey a ‘marriage of convenience’ in return for helping Lacey as her life spirals out of control. What ensues is the quick Vegas wedding, followed by a move to the coast wherein Lacey will come face to face with the dysfunctional Wynn family, and all of their crazy in-laws, out-laws, and philandering ways.
Theo Wynn has never recovered from his brother’s betrayal, a betrayal that cut deep into the family hold.Marrying Lacey gave Theo a ‘one-up’ on his brother, a brother who was once his best friend and more. Lacey Olson has struggled to make ends meet since the death of her beloved mother but Lacey never expected to find herself on the run, with a gorgeous husband but no promise of a happily ever after.
The relationship between Lacey and Theo is one of immediate attraction but threats to Lacey’s safety and life find Theo guardian and protect of the woman with whom he will fall in love. Theo doesn’t do relationships, not since the betrayal that destroyed his life, but meeting Lacey Olson meant the possibility of a future but a possibility that comes with issues of trust.The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are introduced to a large cast of very colorful secondary and supporting characters including Theo’s brother JP; his ex-girlfriend Emma; and Lacey’s embattled brother Chris.
PLAY TO WIN is a story about a dysfunctional family of hockey players, team owners, and their significant others. There is plenty of fun and drama; secrets and lies; history, affairs, marriages and divorce. The premise will captivate your attention; the characters are energetic; the romance is passionate and intense. The hockey premise is limited to behind the scenes as Theo Wynn struggles to rebuild the California Condors, a team owned by his grandfather but in direct competition with his father’s Long Beach Golden Eagles.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
March 19, 2019
It's clear from the start that this series will be about the Wynn family. I loved the family tree in the beginning, but even with that help it's hard to keep everyone apart. There are a lot of unique relationships and the family is quite big, so it was hard to keep them all in mind. I'm sure once I've read a couple more books in this series, I will be a pro.
Play to Win focuses on Théo Wynn. He's always worked hard and is really smart. Théo had a short hockey career, but after an unfortunate injury, he had to work behind the scenes. His grandfather offers him to manage the hockey team he owns. This is a dream for him, but he know it's going to cause a lot of drama in his family.
Lacey doesn't have a lot of family left and when her twin brother messes up once again, things get dangerous. Meeting Théo at her job in Vegas was probably perfect timing, because who knows what would've happened if he hadn't been there? After having a fun night together, he offers her a deal. Come to LA with him and pretend to be his wife. She'll get away from the people after her brother and he won't feel like such a loser seeing his family again.
I was expecting this to be the cliché story we have read a thousand times. And while that happens in many ways in this story, these characters and their story is just so much fun. Lacey and Théo definitely have a connection, but it's not an insta-love one that I can't stand. They're attracted to each other, but while reading we slowly seeing them fall in love. I think that was my favorite part.
Théo is a hard worker and has always had to work hard for everything, so he has a hard time letting go. Everything needs to be planned and just having fun isn't something he normally does. It's fun watching him let loose and enjoying himself with Lacey around.
Lacey has always worked really hard, so actually letting someone take care of her is hard. I think Lacey is really brave though. I can't imagine how hard it was to let her brother face his problems the way she did. After losing everything she's known, she really bounces back. Lacey is caring and smart. She adapts fast and makes friends really easily.
The romance in this book is really sweet and the family drama is extreme! I have never read about a family like this! It's interesting though and I'm curious to see how everything in this family will continue. I also enjoyed the hockey aspects. The romance didn't take over and I even learned some things I never knew. There was a great balance of romance, sports and family.
Play to Win is a book I read in one sitting and I can't wait to get my hands on the next books in this series. If you're looking for a sports romance with great characters, a family with lots of drama, humor, romance and even some hockey, this book is for you!
Play to Win focuses on Théo Wynn. He's always worked hard and is really smart. Théo had a short hockey career, but after an unfortunate injury, he had to work behind the scenes. His grandfather offers him to manage the hockey team he owns. This is a dream for him, but he know it's going to cause a lot of drama in his family.
Lacey doesn't have a lot of family left and when her twin brother messes up once again, things get dangerous. Meeting Théo at her job in Vegas was probably perfect timing, because who knows what would've happened if he hadn't been there? After having a fun night together, he offers her a deal. Come to LA with him and pretend to be his wife. She'll get away from the people after her brother and he won't feel like such a loser seeing his family again.
I was expecting this to be the cliché story we have read a thousand times. And while that happens in many ways in this story, these characters and their story is just so much fun. Lacey and Théo definitely have a connection, but it's not an insta-love one that I can't stand. They're attracted to each other, but while reading we slowly seeing them fall in love. I think that was my favorite part.
Théo is a hard worker and has always had to work hard for everything, so he has a hard time letting go. Everything needs to be planned and just having fun isn't something he normally does. It's fun watching him let loose and enjoying himself with Lacey around.
Lacey has always worked really hard, so actually letting someone take care of her is hard. I think Lacey is really brave though. I can't imagine how hard it was to let her brother face his problems the way she did. After losing everything she's known, she really bounces back. Lacey is caring and smart. She adapts fast and makes friends really easily.
The romance in this book is really sweet and the family drama is extreme! I have never read about a family like this! It's interesting though and I'm curious to see how everything in this family will continue. I also enjoyed the hockey aspects. The romance didn't take over and I even learned some things I never knew. There was a great balance of romance, sports and family.
Play to Win is a book I read in one sitting and I can't wait to get my hands on the next books in this series. If you're looking for a sports romance with great characters, a family with lots of drama, humor, romance and even some hockey, this book is for you!
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