From bestselling romance author Xavier Neal comes a sizzling new standalone in the series that's being called a MUST READ for any sports romance fans!
Once upon a time, the Vlasta Vipers hockey team was so incredible — on and off the ice — they were almost mythical.
Unfortunately, seasons passed and things changed for the worst, like a curse the team didn't know how to break.
The champions became chumps.
The envied became envious.
And the playboys...well, they continued to play, because puck bunnies are always willing to hop into the bed of a guy who knows how to handle his stick.
Several years and one new head coach later, the legendary reputation that was previously lost has finally been restored.
Every other university wants to beat them.
Every chick who crosses their paths wants to claim them.
Adrian Stratton, the team's left winger, is ready to enjoy another flawless year on campus, when his ex-girlfriend unexpectedly transfers to his beloved school, threatening to ruin his highly respected reputation.
Easiest way to prove he's moved on is to show off his new girlfriend.
The fake one he immediately pretends to have.
The fake one he convinces his sister's best friend to become.
The fake one he accidentally starts to fall head over blades for.
Will this left wing Casanova score one for true love, or will he hesitate to make the most important shot of his life?
Gahhh!! Adrian and Tatum are a breath of fresh air. I’ve always know I was going to love him, but I didn’t know that I was going to fall head over heals for him. A hockey god that has so much more to him than what meets the eye. He is so freaking swoon worthy! Tatum is freaking amazing! Her quirky nerdy self had me laughing so Hard! I also loved her vulnerability about herself. Watching these two begin you never knew what was going to happen, but I think without each other they couldn’t have became who they needed to be. This story has everything!! I can’t wait to read about the rest of the bro’s! I have a feeling I’m going to devour them just I did these two!
Book 2 in the Hockey Gods Series was just as great as book 1 of the series was! This is now the second book that I have read by Xavier Neal, and I have come to recognize that the stories are going to be hilarious, filled with steam and LOTS of swooning.
Stratton is roped into being the representative for his hockey team when working with the University Charity Committee, in showing that both him and his team members care about the community, and in turn will hopefully garner the team a better look in the eyes of the university, and help build upon ticket sales....etc. After agreeing with a grace that only stratton carries, LOL, he comes face to face with the devil herself. His ex-girlfriend Daniella. Their breakup was brutal, when she broke up with him in front of an audience on his birthday 2 years prior, and he has been bitter ever since. In the midst of it all, he ends up lying when she tries to down talk him yet again, and he lets slip that he has a girlfriend (when in fact he doesn't!), and now he is set on proving this evil ex of his wrong, and must not find a fake girlfriend who can play the part. In turn, his sister's best friend Tatum reluctantly agrees to the job. What starts out as what you would imagine to be as cut and dry (as a FAKE relationship can be), turns quickly into a relationship that neither were really expecting.
My Fair Puck Bunny was filled with many moments of laughter, lots of steam, a bit of "insta-love", and a just all around great story. This book came at the perfect time, and I really enjoyed reading it. If you are a fan of college sports romance, with comedy thrown in, and what turns into an uplifting heartwarming romance, then My Fair Puck Bunny is certainly the book I would recommend to you. I actually enjoyed it so much that I may pick up the physical version for moments in time when I need a pick me up. So, I honestly think that this type of romance can be picked up by anyone, and I definitely recommend picking this read up the next chance you get!
Woah... Well damn... I am going to make this short and sweet. You need to read this author and you need to read this series and book. It was amazing and yes I find a lot of books amazing because they are both this here is going down as a 2020 favorite. The author sucked me in from page one with Adrian and Tatum's story. It's a fake relationship that turns in to so much more and it doesn't take long for it to happen. It was made obvious that these two were meant for each other. There was so much expected of Adrian by his father that it overshadowed who he truly was at the beginning but as I got deeper into the plot I could see this man was kind and sweet, and just an around decent person... But having to act and be a certain way for his father.
I loved how the author wrote Tatum into this and how Adrian was comfortable and content enough to let her in and to show her who he truly as. I think these two were perfect for each other and I thought balanced each other out in a way and as the story progressed their bond and love only strengthened.
I couldn't put this down. The author and her style of writing were flawless and her words flow so easily as you read them that hours later I looked up and realized it was 4 am and I had finished the entire book!
This precious gem hit my kindle at the perfect time. Guys, I laughed myself to tears and boom the scars came and my tears went to a sob. This is what I love the best about a book. The ones that come at you out of left field. Kind of hitting you in the head with all the emotions. I ready for more!!! All the stars. Kathy Coopmans USA Today Bestselling Author.
Xavier Neal scores with My Fair Puck Bunny (Hockey Gods #2). In this story, Vlasta Vipers hockey player Adrian Stratton’s ex-girlfriend, Daniella Sulivan, is back in town. He must work with her on a charity committee. He recruits his twin sister’s friend Tatum Rojas to be his fake girlfriend to prove to Daniella that he is over her. This contemporary sports romance is suitable for New Adult readers.
My Fair Puck Bunny is a fun story. At first, I wasn’t crazy about Adrian, but as more was revealed about his true personality it made me like him further. Adrian puts on an act with everyone but Tatum. I love that with her, he can finally be himself. She accepts and encourages him. Simultaneously, I appreciated how Adrian gives Tatum the confidence to come out of her shell and believe that she is beautiful. Daniella was an easy to dislike antagonist. I hate how she treats people.
Xavier Neal does a great job with this novel. It is skillfully written and creative. I like that Ren and Poppy from Can't Block My Love (Hockey Gods #1) played roles in this story. I recommend this story to people who enjoy sports romances. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
Book 2 of the Hockey Gods series is even better than the first. Adrian Stratton is a left winger for the Vlasta Vipers college hockey team and best friend to goalie, Ren Rutledge, who we met in book 1 and is still hilarious. Adrian was born and raised to play hockey, like his legendary father, but Adrian has another passion – one he keeps a secret. When his ex-girlfriend, the one who dumped him five years ago, returns to Vlasta to represent the charity committee, Adrian is forced to work with her to collaborate on charitable events for the community. This causes Adrian to decide he needs a steady girl, and he enlists the help of his sister’s roommate, Tatum Rojas. It’s not exactly an easy partnership at first, but along their journey, they end up helping each other in more ways than one. It’s a journey I enjoyed being on with them. Adrian and Tatum are meant to be, and I loved how their relationship evolved. It’s definitely a “follow your heart” kind of story, with steaminess added in. I truly loved Adrian and Tatum and know you will, too.
When Adrian needs a fake girlfriend, stat, who better to convince to go along with his insane plan than his sis's best friend, Tatum? Except soon the fake part of this fake relationship morphs into real feelings. Feelings neither expected, especially straight to the point, math loving Tatum who is the opposite of the normal puck bunnies Adrian is so used to being with.
Wow, I loved this hockey romance! Adrian is so different than the facade he presents to the world and Tatum is the perfect woman for him because she sees through his bs and into the real him inside the hockey god persona. I wasn't expecting his character to be what it ended up being, and I appreciate that Xavier Neal took him to an out of the box place and that she gave him an amazing woman to love like Tatum.
I can honestly say that this can be read as a standalone, because I haven't read the first book in the series, but I will be rectifying that soon!
This story is a fun twist on the Pygmalion story of so long ago, with a new edgier theme.
This is Adrian and Tatum's story.
I could really empathize with Tatum's story, how she felt the need to hide from everyone and found comfort in numbers. Numbers don't lie, people do. This is the statement that has carried through the years until a crazy opportunity comes at her fast.
Adrian, oh how I love this hero! I too felt empathy for him. The struggle to keep the shiny facade of his public face. The inner torment of his struggles with what he really wanted versus what was forced upon him to want.
The lines blur between Tatum and Adrian and it was a wild ride to read! The chemistry was fantastic and the dialogue between all the characters was witty, fresh and sometimes oh so swoony!
I can't wait to read the next books in this series to see how the other mighty hockey gods are going to fall!
It's good to know Rutledge hasn't changed since book one, “it’s not,” Rutledge replies instantly. “She lives with me. Eff those rules.” I'm really not sure what to do with Adrian and his innuendos, “but like I still effing like tacos.” His grin transposes to a juvenile one. “I would happily eat the **** out of your fish taco.” The man has no boundaries, “do you own a g-string?” He's quite a bossy **** as well, “no landing strip, either.” He motions his head at it. “Bare is in. Hair is out.” Adrian really doesn't know how to keep his opinions to himself, “yeah, but you scream and cuss at me during ***, and that’s a happy time.” I adored this book, I actually liked it better than the first one in the series.
I was given this book in turn for an honest review.
Aiden Stratton is determined to show the ex-girlfriend, who has suddenly appeared back in his life, that he is well and truly over her. Will his new fake relationship with his sister’s best friend stand the test, or will lines gets crossed and become blurred?
Xavier Neal brought out an array of emotions for me with this story. She pulled out all the stops and pulled at all my heart strings! This story is compelling and beautifully written, the message with this story is a powerful and inspirational one and I loved it!
This story for me at first seemed to start out a little slow, and it took me a little while to truly get a feel of the two main characters. Then things soon became clear and secrets began to be revealed, that had my heart swelling with so much love for both Adrian and Tatum, and I soon found myself, head over heels with these characters shouting from the stands for these two to speak their true feelings 100% and show the world ALL they had to offer, because when they did I knew it was going to be off the charts! And Xavier Neal did not disappoint!
Both Adrian and Tatum were strong characters and good at playing the part they believed they needed to, to be accepted by those around them. When they finally showed their true selves, you couldn’t not love them. They were polar opposites and yet so perfect for each other. The two missing pieces to the final puzzle. I just love them!
This is the second book in Xavier Neal’s Hockey God’s series and can be read as a standalone. If you enjoy sport romances, this is for you!
I love a good hockey romance! It has quickly become one of my go to tropes and I really enjoyed my first book by Xavier Neal. Tatum and Adrian were one of the most unique and beautiful couples I have read. I absolutely loved them. They both have personal issues that they overcome together, and insecurities that they learn to become confident about. I had a difficult time with some of the timeline and flow of the storyline. Adrian recruits Tatum for a fake relationship because his evil ex girlfriend is back and causing trouble. The issue I had was that there were very minimal interactions with the she devil. While there was some beautiful couple and character development, it felt like the story veered off it's trajectory for a bulk of the story before getting back on track. Also, I wasn't sure which character was meant to be Eliza Dolittle and which was Henry Higgins as they both were learning and coaching the other in different ways, but it doesn't really matter, because it worked. This was a solid 3.5 star read for me
I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily give my review.
This is the second book two in the "Hockey Gods" series. It can be read as a standalone.
This book was charming, cute and quirky. Stratton and Tatum are a very adorable couple. This was a sweet and quick read.
We first saw Stratton in book one of this series and the first impression is that he likes his "puck bunnies". Throughout this book we get a deeper look into who he is as a person. He is quite a complex character and not at all what I expected him to be like.
Tatum is simply loveable from the very first introduction. There is something about her that beckons a closer look. Her personality is completely likeable. You feel drawn to her from the start. While she isn't traditionally a Stratton type girl, they work. Their differences really mesh well together. Their relationship escalates rather quickly but it actually works in this story. Their evolution and journey was heartwarming.
If you enjoy a semi-instant love story, hockey and pop culture this is a must read.
Once you start, you dont want to stop. It was so hard to put down that I stayed up way later than I should have to keep reading lol. I love Tatum (aka Tater Tot) and Stratton (aka Adrian or Prince Poutine)! Their banter back and forth is so funny and such a joy to read. One of my fave things about this book is Tatum and the fact that she has Vitiligo. I have never read a story that had a character, let a lone a main character, that has it. Crazy that something so simple would be the one thing I mention I know. But my 4 year old daughter was diagnosed shortly after birth with Vitiligo so it has become something very near and dear to my heart. Reading the struggles and fears that Tatum faces are the same things I worry about for my daughter as she gets older. And I absolutely love Adrian's acceptance of her even though she sees herself as flawed. Such a great story. I enjoyed every second of it and wish there was more lol!
Another incredible book by Xavier Neal. As much as I enjoyed the storyline in this book it just happens to be the incredible writing style from this author that reels me in time and again. If ever there is a person meant to be writing as a career it most certainly is Xavier. Adrian and Tatum’s story started off as a fake relationship. But it soon became apparent that it would move to something quite real. Adrian was the standout character to me in this book. Aside from all his showboating he is just a beautiful person hiding behind his fathers expectations. I enjoyed how he let Tatum in and became more comfortable and confident in what direction he should go. Hopefully there will be more Vlasta Vipers books coming sooner rather than later. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
I absolutely loved this book! It’s very well written, amazing characters and entertaining, easy to read storyline. I was hooked from the very beginning ad couldn’t put it down.
In this fake couple to forever love romance Adrian and Tatum take us on a funny and romantic journey full of surprises, heartbreak, love, and so much more. When you have skeletons in your closet that keep you from truly opening up to love it can cause chaos when you find it. Adrian and Tatum both have their own reasons for swearing off love and never expected their fake relationship to grow into something real. When things get touch and Adrian’s demons play a part things get messy, hearts get broke and he will have to fight for what he truly wants - Tatum back, forever.
This book was great. Adrian and Tatum were gorgeous together. Talk about chalk and cheese. Loved the way their relationship developed as Adrian was willing to give more of his real self... not so much the hockey legend persona he created. Very easy read with quite a few laughs. Loved Adrian’s quick wit and attitude. Definitely worth the read. I was given an arc for an honest review
This book is the 2nd installment in Xavier’s Hockey God series. I’m from Wisconsin and hockey is absolutely one of my most favorite sports ever. I love how Xavier was able to capture the romance as well as the Wisconsin hockey vibe. Tatum is our walking and talking calculator. She is super quirky and has a lot of love it give. She falls back on her quirks because they are faithful and she can trust them. Adrian is of course, one of the Star players on the team, on and off the ice, but someone who has secrets of his own. When a blast from his past (and not a good one) comes to Vlasta, he has a little proposition for our girl. What happens when the lines blur and they aren’t sure where offsides is anymore? Will they be able to be themselves and look at what’s in front of them or is this just one more missed shot? Read to find out! Xavier does an amazing job at showing both of the vulnerabilities that these characters have and how hard they had to work through them. As always, we get to see some of our other beloved characters. So many swoon worthy moments, extremely laugh out loud moments, and moments where I wanted to reach through my kindle and strangle them both. The dialogue between all the characters was smooth and flawless. The comedy is of course there as well. If you liked/loved the first book, continue on with the series and fall a little more in love with these dynamite characters. I personally am impatiently waiting for the next book in the series.
This was such an amazing romance. Adrian and Tatum's story will send your emotions on quite the roller coaster ride. These two were quite the pair. Their vast differences created many opportunities for laugh-out-loud humor, while the emotional connection they shared was a never ending source of heartfelt sweetness. One thing you can always count on when you read one of this author's books is that the characters will be unique, thought provoking and genuine and that continued to be the case for this book. Tatum and Adrian will steal your heart with their complexities, flaws and insecurities. This book is beautifully written, quickly captures your attention and will have you fully invested in these characters, this couple and their HEA. This read is filled with intense emotions, drama, humor and steam. A simply delightful romantic comedy that you do not want to miss. I am freely choosing to post a sincere review.
This was a quirky, funny, and thought-provoking book. I loved the witty back and forth dialogue. The fast and quick-witted responses had me in stitches. Not only that, it exercised my mind. I had to look up so many words! However, I now have more creative words in my arsenal. Tatum is a walking calculator with a wall-flower appearance. At the same time, she is a strong woman. I love how Adrien doesn't change her but enhances her beauty. He cracks the shell and she becomes a blossoming knock-out. Adrien is a pretty boy that has many talents. I was so riveted by the tension-filled banter, and awed by how they brought out the best in each other. They are the perfect example of how a couple should raise each other up and not break each other down. Ms. Neal blew my mind in this fast-paced, hilarious read. It left me with a feel-good attitude and a smile on my face. My Fair Puck Bunny is a wonderful Sports Romance with a friends to lovers twist!
"Another incredible book by Xavier Neal. As much as I enjoyed the storyline in this book it just happens to be the incredible writing style from this author that reels me in time and again. If ever there is a person meant to be writing as a career it most certainly is Xavier. Adrian and Tatum’s story started off as a fake relationship. But it soon became apparent that it would move to something quite real. Adrian was the standout character to me in this book. Aside from all his showboating he is just a beautiful person hiding behind his fathers expectations. I enjoyed how he let Tatum in and became more comfortable and confident in what direction he should go. Hopefully there will be more Vlasta Vipers books coming sooner rather than later. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book."
This book was so good! Adrian and Tatum know each other because she, Tatum, is best friends with his sister Angel. So Adrian is in a bind. He needs a fake girlfriend but he needs it to be a girl he can trust. Enter Tatum. He is a hockey god and she is an accounting genius. They don't really each other well but this fake relationship forces them to really learn about each other and boy do they. I love what they learn about each other and what they do for each other. It's a cute read with a few steamy scenes. If you liked the first book in this series then you will enjoy this one as well. I cant wait for the next on the series! I hope its Gillette *wink wink* . I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the fast, fun, dialogue in this book. The story was intense at times with emotional feelings and love. Adrian and Tatum were excellent characters and developed well. I enjoyed their story very much! A great read, I highly recommend this book!
I have absolutely enjoyed this book. What do you do when you’re in a bind & need a girlfriend? You find yourself one. That’s what Adrian does & this is how he & Tatum start. From barely knowing each other to learning a lot fast about each other. I can’t wait for this series to continue!
What can I say that I haven’t already said? I always enjoy your books and I can never get enough of them. The words you magically put to the paper are just amazing. I can also never wait for the next book in any of your series. Keep up the wonderful work.
I loved Adrian and Tatum’s story!!!! It was twisty and broken and beyond beautiful!!!! Way to go, Xavier!!!! You’ve definitely hit a perfect slap shot with this one!!!!! Amazing book!!!!
My Fair Puck Bunny by Xavier Neal was the highest point of wit, sarcasm, banter and hilarious moments. At the same time it was heartfelt awesomeness and all kind of warm fuzzy feelings. I had such a blast while reading it. At the same time I admire the author for including some very important social issues in this light hearted sports rom com.
Adrian and Tatum's story started with two stereotyped individuals. Adrian is the loud mouthed, obnoxious, arrogant, sexy as sin and a bit cute idiotic ice hockey player who is worshipped by all females with a libido. Aka PUCK BUNNIES. Tatum is the super smart, intelligent, adorably nerdy and sassy girl who dresses casual and prefers to stay away from limelight. But even hockey gods have hearts and the hearts get broken. And Adrian needs Tatum to play her fake girlfriend when his heartless and cruel ex returns to town. But this thing gets complicated as they soon find out hidden secrets about each other. Can a jock and a nerd really have a happily ever after?
I feel so many emotions about this story. Adrian and Tatum both have so many heartbreaking burdens in their souls. Adrian is actually a very sweet and compassionate and charming guy behind his overtly sexualized and crude image. He actually loves fashion and he has a hard time being accepted by his father who only wants him to be a successful hockey player. Tatum is shy and socially awkward as her early life experiences are not very favorable. She is sharp and smart but has insecurities and body image doubts. They complement each other so much. Tatum embraced and accepter every side of Adrian. And Adrian made her feel beautiful and cherished and loved. But she always had doubt and fear that Adrian will not be with her for long and ironically Arldrian had the same thoughts. So came the misunderstandings and pain and tears. But every love story needs them. And it enhanced the story so much. The chemistry was spot on. It was spicy, easy, steamy, funny and everything amazing.
My Fair Puck Bunny by Xavier Neal was the whole package of sweet, funny, sexy and intense. I loved the time I spent with the amazing characters!
My Fair Puck Bunny is Xavier's second book in the Hockey Gods Series. We met Stratton in Ren and Poppy's book, Can't Block My Love. When the new hockey season starts, he's given a "job" by the coach, little does he know this job will bring him in constant contact with his ex, the only woman who's ever broken his heart. He doesn't want her back and doesn't want her thinking he's been pining away for her. So what's his solution?? Tatum or his Tator Tot.
This book was a short-ish sweet read. I don't know how Xavier reels me in every time but she's just good at what she does.
Sports romance is one of my faves and this one did not disappoint! The angsty ex girlfriend vibes, a sports hero and a math nerd all lead to some very steamy scenes! This was an easy read and I flew through it.
Adrian and Tatum I have been trying to wrap my brain around how to write a spoiler free review for this awesome book. So here I go.
Adrian Stratton and Tatum Rojas are my new favorite couple! The Hockey God and the Math Nerd are so perfect for one another. This Book was so fun to read. There are so many moments! Laugh out loud, swoony, OMG I hate you, Gaspy and whoa, and Steamy moments! This book is FANTASTIC!!! I loved it all! #TheRealGuyBehindTheStick
"Adrian is more than the persona he pretends to be, and if he only manages to remember one thing from our time together, I pray it's that."