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Arizona Vengeance #9
Steele
A second chance may be just what James Steele needs…
I might be one of the older players on the Arizona Vengeance, but I like to think that also makes me one of the wisest. Or at least I used to.
Turns out, I’ve been a bit selfish. I’ve been married to hockey and my team for years, which hasn’t left much time for my actual wife, Ella. Now I’m juggling a separation I never wanted, the pressure of being a single dad to our teenage daughter, and the career I sacrificed it all for.
While my game on the ice might be on fire, the game in my personal life is clearly lacking, as evidenced by the fact I just saw my wife on a date with another man. If I have any hope of saving the family I love, I need to re-prioritize, and fast. So it’s time for me to get back to fundamentals, just like I did when I learned how to play hockey. I’ve never backed down from a challenge, and romancing my wife is a challenge I am very much looking forward to.
Time to put on my game face, because I’m in it to win it.
I might be one of the older players on the Arizona Vengeance, but I like to think that also makes me one of the wisest. Or at least I used to.
Turns out, I’ve been a bit selfish. I’ve been married to hockey and my team for years, which hasn’t left much time for my actual wife, Ella. Now I’m juggling a separation I never wanted, the pressure of being a single dad to our teenage daughter, and the career I sacrificed it all for.
While my game on the ice might be on fire, the game in my personal life is clearly lacking, as evidenced by the fact I just saw my wife on a date with another man. If I have any hope of saving the family I love, I need to re-prioritize, and fast. So it’s time for me to get back to fundamentals, just like I did when I learned how to play hockey. I’ve never backed down from a challenge, and romancing my wife is a challenge I am very much looking forward to.
Time to put on my game face, because I’m in it to win it.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 8, 2020
371 people are currently reading
1807 people want to read
About the author
Sawyer Bennett
164 books14.4k followersNew York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Sawyer Bennett uses real life experience to create relatable stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From contemporary romance, fantasy romance, and both women’s and general fiction, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.
A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.
If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).
A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.
If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 366 reviews
December 9, 2020
4 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
James Steele is a professional hockey player for the Arizona Vengeance in Phoenix. His career is at an all time high, but his personal life has hit rock bottom. He's been crazy in love with his wife Ella since they were in high school. They had sixteen years of history between them, and planned to be together forever, but have now been separated for the last six months. He'd been blind to the fact she was unhappy and felt invisible. He'd crushed her heart when he'd been too focused on work instead of family. He'd let her and their thirteen year old daughter down by not making them his top priority.
Their still legally married, but she was no longer his. He can't let her go, and is determined to prove he's changed, and can be the man she needs. He's committed to saving his marriage, and is ready to show her he's serious with his actions. It's time to up his game and woo her. Show her she's the center of his universe and remind her of the good times. It's time to be bold, reconnect, regain her trust, and fight for her, but is it too little too late?
Steele (Arizona Vengeance #9) by Sawyer Bennett is an emotional second chance, sports romance about true loves, trust, forgiveness, and unbreakable connections. I loved Jim's alpha character and how he's all in with winning back his wife's heart. He pursues her relentlessly, and there's nothing he won't do to remind her how magical they are together. This story was super sexy, and packed with romance, humor, and passion!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/36XaXfk
(ARC provided by author)
James Steele is a professional hockey player for the Arizona Vengeance in Phoenix. His career is at an all time high, but his personal life has hit rock bottom. He's been crazy in love with his wife Ella since they were in high school. They had sixteen years of history between them, and planned to be together forever, but have now been separated for the last six months. He'd been blind to the fact she was unhappy and felt invisible. He'd crushed her heart when he'd been too focused on work instead of family. He'd let her and their thirteen year old daughter down by not making them his top priority.
Their still legally married, but she was no longer his. He can't let her go, and is determined to prove he's changed, and can be the man she needs. He's committed to saving his marriage, and is ready to show her he's serious with his actions. It's time to up his game and woo her. Show her she's the center of his universe and remind her of the good times. It's time to be bold, reconnect, regain her trust, and fight for her, but is it too little too late?
Steele (Arizona Vengeance #9) by Sawyer Bennett is an emotional second chance, sports romance about true loves, trust, forgiveness, and unbreakable connections. I loved Jim's alpha character and how he's all in with winning back his wife's heart. He pursues her relentlessly, and there's nothing he won't do to remind her how magical they are together. This story was super sexy, and packed with romance, humor, and passion!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/36XaXfk
November 15, 2020
ARC received thanks to author.
a great second chance romance!!
a great second chance romance!!
December 8, 2020
STEELE AND ELLA
We already heard about Steele and how he wants to win his wife back in the previous book.
Now it's time to get serious. They've been in love since highschool. He can't imagine life without her. And Ella is not the only one he has to win back. Convincing his 13 year old daughter Lucy that he's changed will be just as difficult.
LET THE FUN TIMES BEGIN...☺
Another adorable and funny story in this great hockey series.
I really enjoyed reading it.
It was really cute and fun and sexy.
But also a bit too meh. It's just the same stuff book after book. I like reading them, but it's never anything new. It's like we've read the exact same book 100 times before - and at least 25 of those 100 were hockey books by Sawyer Bennett. I think there should be a law against book series going higher than book 3 or 5. You just can't invent anything new in such a world.
But ...also... we love those worlds and we enjoy reading these books and seeing all the other players and wives again.
Don't worry, it was a cute 2nd-chance-romance - I liked reading it! I was just in a bit of a anti-mood today. Lol.
Can we also please get a Sawyer Bennett Hockey Netflix series??
STEELE was another cute little love story in this great hockey series! ☺ Run to your nearest amazon for your own STEELE - this one is MINE!
💜
💜
December 9, 2020
Let me just start out that one star is actually more than what this book deserves.
I don't know why I keep reading this authors books because I am generally left with a bad taste in my mouth, but this time I was filled with rage.
This author, through the entire book, made the hero the victim. He played the victim in every aspect. His wife was finding some happiness, why don't I go sulk a bit and then emotionally manipulate her into thinking she is actually a priority. Why don't I make sure her date is messed up because I can't handle my feelings. Because I can't handle that my property is going on a date with another man. He is full of CRAP.
He used his daughter in a chess game the entire book. You hear him weighing his options and how he knows that paying attention to his kid will earn him points with his wife. He played the victim when his daughter didn't want anything to do with him after he missed her recital to get drunk with his buds. He was hurt she threw away his flowers.
When writing a second chance book, you need to give the reader time to understand and hate the hero and then rebuild the trust with the hero themselves. She went from separation to reconciling within a handful of chapters. I was still on him being a crappy dad, how could I root for him succeeding with reconciling when he didn't earn it? He kissed his wife a handful of time and she fell for it. There was also this one line that went something like "I knew that what he would say would change my feelings". [Insert puke emojis].
Speaking for myself there was little to no groveling or making up for 13+ years of a crap marriage, or being treated like a toy he could pick up and put down whenever he wanted and whenever it fit his schedule. And not just work schedule, he put his friends above his own wife and kid. He doesn't really deserve any redemption. That's too many years or emotional abandonment and physical abandonment for me to get over.
Then you're hit with the finale. He UNILATERALLY decides to move up when his coach calls him. There's NO discussion with his wife. No real explanation except "I gotta do it". He goes to her house cancels their date knowing FULL WELL that he was trying to reconcile because he was a deadbeat dad and husband and then tells his wife, hop-on or hop-off.
As a woman I felt personally offended for this woman and then the author writes a doormat who rushes over to apologize?!?!?! I really hope this author isn't a woman (haven't read the authors bio) because if this is what they expect out of a marriage then they have set a really bad standard for anyone in a relationship. The author teaches you that you should take the crap you are handed with a smile, because hey if they guys good in bed that makes up for it.
Sorry if this sounds/reads like a rant; it is.
Final conclusion: don't read this book if you have any good head on your shoulders and understand that a man shouldn't play victim when he emotionally/physically abandons his family and a woman shouldn't be a doormat and a marriage DOESN'T work with someone making UNILATERAL decisions.
I don't know why I keep reading this authors books because I am generally left with a bad taste in my mouth, but this time I was filled with rage.
This author, through the entire book, made the hero the victim. He played the victim in every aspect. His wife was finding some happiness, why don't I go sulk a bit and then emotionally manipulate her into thinking she is actually a priority. Why don't I make sure her date is messed up because I can't handle my feelings. Because I can't handle that my property is going on a date with another man. He is full of CRAP.
He used his daughter in a chess game the entire book. You hear him weighing his options and how he knows that paying attention to his kid will earn him points with his wife. He played the victim when his daughter didn't want anything to do with him after he missed her recital to get drunk with his buds. He was hurt she threw away his flowers.
When writing a second chance book, you need to give the reader time to understand and hate the hero and then rebuild the trust with the hero themselves. She went from separation to reconciling within a handful of chapters. I was still on him being a crappy dad, how could I root for him succeeding with reconciling when he didn't earn it? He kissed his wife a handful of time and she fell for it. There was also this one line that went something like "I knew that what he would say would change my feelings". [Insert puke emojis].
Speaking for myself there was little to no groveling or making up for 13+ years of a crap marriage, or being treated like a toy he could pick up and put down whenever he wanted and whenever it fit his schedule. And not just work schedule, he put his friends above his own wife and kid. He doesn't really deserve any redemption. That's too many years or emotional abandonment and physical abandonment for me to get over.
Then you're hit with the finale. He UNILATERALLY decides to move up when his coach calls him. There's NO discussion with his wife. No real explanation except "I gotta do it". He goes to her house cancels their date knowing FULL WELL that he was trying to reconcile because he was a deadbeat dad and husband and then tells his wife, hop-on or hop-off.
As a woman I felt personally offended for this woman and then the author writes a doormat who rushes over to apologize?!?!?! I really hope this author isn't a woman (haven't read the authors bio) because if this is what they expect out of a marriage then they have set a really bad standard for anyone in a relationship. The author teaches you that you should take the crap you are handed with a smile, because hey if they guys good in bed that makes up for it.
Sorry if this sounds/reads like a rant; it is.
Final conclusion: don't read this book if you have any good head on your shoulders and understand that a man shouldn't play victim when he emotionally/physically abandons his family and a woman shouldn't be a doormat and a marriage DOESN'T work with someone making UNILATERAL decisions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2021
Steele is quite possibly my favorite book in this series. Jim Steele is delicious and dreamy while he tries to win his wife back. The
The last book in this series before this one was Kane’s story but there was a fun scene in that one where Kane and Jim follow Jim’s (not yet divorced) wife on a date with another man. That scene made it very hard to wait for this book to be available for me to read. I knew Steele was going to an interesting ride.
Jim is charming, manly, handsome and a good dad. He lost his way a bit by taking his wife for granted and missing important events and activities for his family. This is why his wife finely made the hard decision and asked him to leave.
The storyline of a husband and wife separated but still trying to work on their marriage is not one I have read very many times. It is not one that really normally appeals to me either but this story between Jim and Ella was really spot on!!
I thought Ella was a GREAT character!! She is mature and comfortable in her own skin, she is kind and thoughtful and a great mother to their 13 year old daughter Lucy.
Just an outstanding story that was just so realistic.
The last book in this series before this one was Kane’s story but there was a fun scene in that one where Kane and Jim follow Jim’s (not yet divorced) wife on a date with another man. That scene made it very hard to wait for this book to be available for me to read. I knew Steele was going to an interesting ride.
Jim is charming, manly, handsome and a good dad. He lost his way a bit by taking his wife for granted and missing important events and activities for his family. This is why his wife finely made the hard decision and asked him to leave.
The storyline of a husband and wife separated but still trying to work on their marriage is not one I have read very many times. It is not one that really normally appeals to me either but this story between Jim and Ella was really spot on!!
I thought Ella was a GREAT character!! She is mature and comfortable in her own skin, she is kind and thoughtful and a great mother to their 13 year old daughter Lucy.
Just an outstanding story that was just so realistic.
December 17, 2020
Edited 12/17/20
Audiobook Review
Overall 4 stars
Performance 4.5 stars
Story 4 stars
Brian Pallino and Jill Redfield were wonderful as Jim and Ella! I loved revisiting this story through audiobook. Brian Pallino was perfect as Steele and was just the right amount of alpha and sweet. I definitely need to listen to more of his performances. I didn't have any trouble differentiating between characters and both narrators did a fantastic job bringing these characters to life.
*****
It's not often that I come across romances featuring a marriage in crisis. I find them really intriguing because it's a glimpse beyond the typical happily ever after. I love that these two characters are fighting to get back to each other. The obstacles and hurt feelings are all too relatable and that vulnerability really hits me in all the feels. Steele is book 9 in the Arizona Vengeance series, but can be enjoyed as a standalone. Previous characters do appear, but the author does a fantastic job introducing them to readers who haven't had a chance to read the prior books.
One of the things I love about marriage in crisis romances is that the characters are all in. Yes, there might be some minor OW/OM drama for a bit, but for the most part, the characters only have eyes for each other. This was definitely the case for Jim and Ella. I loved that they were childhood sweethearts and had weathered so much together. It was easy to understand how both became complacent and also upset with the progression of their marriage. There wasn't a ton of drama in this one and I liked that it focused on the two of them finding their way back. The next book, featuring Jett, was set up very well and I'm looking forward to his story next.
*I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book*
Audiobook Review
Overall 4 stars
Performance 4.5 stars
Story 4 stars
Brian Pallino and Jill Redfield were wonderful as Jim and Ella! I loved revisiting this story through audiobook. Brian Pallino was perfect as Steele and was just the right amount of alpha and sweet. I definitely need to listen to more of his performances. I didn't have any trouble differentiating between characters and both narrators did a fantastic job bringing these characters to life.
*****
It's not often that I come across romances featuring a marriage in crisis. I find them really intriguing because it's a glimpse beyond the typical happily ever after. I love that these two characters are fighting to get back to each other. The obstacles and hurt feelings are all too relatable and that vulnerability really hits me in all the feels. Steele is book 9 in the Arizona Vengeance series, but can be enjoyed as a standalone. Previous characters do appear, but the author does a fantastic job introducing them to readers who haven't had a chance to read the prior books.
One of the things I love about marriage in crisis romances is that the characters are all in. Yes, there might be some minor OW/OM drama for a bit, but for the most part, the characters only have eyes for each other. This was definitely the case for Jim and Ella. I loved that they were childhood sweethearts and had weathered so much together. It was easy to understand how both became complacent and also upset with the progression of their marriage. There wasn't a ton of drama in this one and I liked that it focused on the two of them finding their way back. The next book, featuring Jett, was set up very well and I'm looking forward to his story next.
*I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book*
November 28, 2020
4.5 stars
Jim Steele is a veteran and a bit older than the average guys on the Arizona Vengeance. We have known thathe was separated from his wife, Ella, for a while, and he was feeling pretty hopeless about it. But it just takes a bit of jealousy and some self-awareness to push him to make a decision whether to let her go or win her back. And any self-respecting husband and father who is insanely jealous and realizes his mistakes is hopefully going to choose the option of fixing them.
In the past Jim got caught up in his career, thinking that being successful and providing for his family would be enough and he did not see how Ella felt invisible or taken for granted. But now after losing her, he is starting to realize how blind he was to her needs. And even when Ella made a desperate attempt by kicking him out months ago, he just took it and did not fight because it was what she said she wanted. He is a good guy, but just a bit clueless on the uptake.
But now he knows it will be the most important fight of his life to win Ella't trust, heart, and his family back. They have a somewhat surly young teen in the middle of it all and have to tread lightly. But Jim is now a man on a mission.
I loved Jim and how he dedicated himself to learning from the past and trying to be a better man. He starts to figure out his priorities and course of action, but nothing is a sure bet. His woo-ing is thoughtful and his sex appeal is not an issue. His career needs are still going to pull him away, but can he find a way to make her feel loved and a priority in the times he cannot be there?
This is a sweet, sexy, second-chance romance of rekindling first love, saving a marriage, and trying to bring a broken family back together. It is a great reminder about seeing what is right in front of you and not taking anything for granted. It is refreshing to read about an established married couple that is trying to reconnect and fall even deeper in love. I really liked Jim and Ella, They had respect for each other and definitely hot chemistry, and I especially appreciated how they co-parented Lucy even in bad times. Lucy is sweet and sassy and plays a big role in their story.
And there are plenty of visits with the Arizona vengeance team and their significant others. And it sets up the next book or maybe three! I am definitely interested in Jett, Bader, and even the grumpy Riggs.
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Jim Steele is a veteran and a bit older than the average guys on the Arizona Vengeance. We have known thathe was separated from his wife, Ella, for a while, and he was feeling pretty hopeless about it. But it just takes a bit of jealousy and some self-awareness to push him to make a decision whether to let her go or win her back. And any self-respecting husband and father who is insanely jealous and realizes his mistakes is hopefully going to choose the option of fixing them.
In the past Jim got caught up in his career, thinking that being successful and providing for his family would be enough and he did not see how Ella felt invisible or taken for granted. But now after losing her, he is starting to realize how blind he was to her needs. And even when Ella made a desperate attempt by kicking him out months ago, he just took it and did not fight because it was what she said she wanted. He is a good guy, but just a bit clueless on the uptake.
But now he knows it will be the most important fight of his life to win Ella't trust, heart, and his family back. They have a somewhat surly young teen in the middle of it all and have to tread lightly. But Jim is now a man on a mission.
I loved Jim and how he dedicated himself to learning from the past and trying to be a better man. He starts to figure out his priorities and course of action, but nothing is a sure bet. His woo-ing is thoughtful and his sex appeal is not an issue. His career needs are still going to pull him away, but can he find a way to make her feel loved and a priority in the times he cannot be there?
This is a sweet, sexy, second-chance romance of rekindling first love, saving a marriage, and trying to bring a broken family back together. It is a great reminder about seeing what is right in front of you and not taking anything for granted. It is refreshing to read about an established married couple that is trying to reconnect and fall even deeper in love. I really liked Jim and Ella, They had respect for each other and definitely hot chemistry, and I especially appreciated how they co-parented Lucy even in bad times. Lucy is sweet and sassy and plays a big role in their story.
And there are plenty of visits with the Arizona vengeance team and their significant others. And it sets up the next book or maybe three! I am definitely interested in Jett, Bader, and even the grumpy Riggs.
November 25, 2020
With Steele, book #9 of the Arizona Vengeance series, Sawyer Bennett writes a beautiful second chance romance where the characters fall in love once again with their intended soulmate.
Jim Steele, has had a long a successful hockey career. With the Arizona Vengeance, they won the Stanley Cup the prior season. Putting his job before his family has caused him to lose the love of his life and the apple of his eye.
After their separation, getting Ella, his wife, back seemed futile and thought he’d be ok having a relationship with his teenage daughter. But seeing his wife on a date with another man has lit a fire under him. If he wants the family he so desperately loves back, Jim will have to reorder his priorities, romance his wife and convince her she takes precedence above all else.
After months of separation Jim eventually realized he’d not only hurt Ella with his neglect, he’d also been careless with his daughter and realized he had his work cut out to win them both back. But kids are magnificent, their love is boundless, and soon Jim had a coconspirator helping him woo his wife.
Lucy, his daughter, and Brody their foster puppy were adorable supporting characters along with the rest of the Vengeance family. I loved getting recaps of past couples as much as I loved the hockey aspect while getting to know Jim and Ella, who re-learn to trust each other while burning up my e-reader because their physical connection was never a problem and they do turn on the heat!
We romance lovers, don't get a lot of second chance romances where the couple is already married. So a cherish the books that do have characters like Steele and Ella who after being married for over a decade, struggle with… life! which happens more often than not, and their story is not only sexy, swoony and brimming with all the awesome feels, it’s also inspiring.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/39fgCyT
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Stalk me on FaceBook * Instagram * More reviews
Jim Steele, has had a long a successful hockey career. With the Arizona Vengeance, they won the Stanley Cup the prior season. Putting his job before his family has caused him to lose the love of his life and the apple of his eye.
After their separation, getting Ella, his wife, back seemed futile and thought he’d be ok having a relationship with his teenage daughter. But seeing his wife on a date with another man has lit a fire under him. If he wants the family he so desperately loves back, Jim will have to reorder his priorities, romance his wife and convince her she takes precedence above all else.
After months of separation Jim eventually realized he’d not only hurt Ella with his neglect, he’d also been careless with his daughter and realized he had his work cut out to win them both back. But kids are magnificent, their love is boundless, and soon Jim had a coconspirator helping him woo his wife.
Lucy, his daughter, and Brody their foster puppy were adorable supporting characters along with the rest of the Vengeance family. I loved getting recaps of past couples as much as I loved the hockey aspect while getting to know Jim and Ella, who re-learn to trust each other while burning up my e-reader because their physical connection was never a problem and they do turn on the heat!
We romance lovers, don't get a lot of second chance romances where the couple is already married. So a cherish the books that do have characters like Steele and Ella who after being married for over a decade, struggle with… life! which happens more often than not, and their story is not only sexy, swoony and brimming with all the awesome feels, it’s also inspiring.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/39fgCyT
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Stalk me on FaceBook * Instagram * More reviews
November 26, 2021
ONLY 99CENTS!!!
Being the Old Man on the Ice...
Should have some Respect...
I think I'm Wise...
An Asset and the Anchor...
But by Devoting my Heart and Soul to the Ice...
My Marriage took a Backseat...
My Selfish Actions have Come Home to Roost...
Ella, My Wife, has Called a Time Out...
A Separation I Never Wanted...
With a Teenage Daughter, being a Single Dad
Is Not Cutting it...
Decisions Need to be Made...
Family Love, Wife Love, Hockey Love...
I Need to Get the Priorities Right...
I have My Game Face On...
Ella, Look Out...
I Plan to Win Our Family and YOU Back...
Steele (Arizona Vengeance, #9)-December 8th 2020
Bishop (Arizona Vengeance,#1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Erik (Arizona Vengeance,#2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Legend (Arizona Vengeance,#3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Dax (Arizona Vengeance #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Tacker (Arizona Vengeance, #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Dominik (Arizona Vengeance #6)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Rafe (Arizona Vengeance, #6.5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Wylde (Arizona Vengeance #7)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Kane (Arizona Vengeance, #8)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Steele (Arizona Vengeance, #9)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Jett (Arizona Vengeance, #10)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
Being the Old Man on the Ice...
Should have some Respect...
I think I'm Wise...
An Asset and the Anchor...
But by Devoting my Heart and Soul to the Ice...
My Marriage took a Backseat...
My Selfish Actions have Come Home to Roost...
Ella, My Wife, has Called a Time Out...
A Separation I Never Wanted...
With a Teenage Daughter, being a Single Dad
Is Not Cutting it...
Decisions Need to be Made...
Family Love, Wife Love, Hockey Love...
I Need to Get the Priorities Right...
I have My Game Face On...
Ella, Look Out...
I Plan to Win Our Family and YOU Back...
Steele (Arizona Vengeance, #9)-December 8th 2020
Bishop (Arizona Vengeance,#1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Erik (Arizona Vengeance,#2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Legend (Arizona Vengeance,#3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Dax (Arizona Vengeance #4) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Tacker (Arizona Vengeance, #5) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Dominik (Arizona Vengeance #6) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Rafe (Arizona Vengeance, #6.5)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Wylde (Arizona Vengeance #7)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Kane (Arizona Vengeance, #8)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Steele (Arizona Vengeance, #9)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Jett (Arizona Vengeance, #10) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
October 9, 2022
I have to wipe a tear from this cynical, heartless reader’s eye. Is the tear over the H and h and their second chance romance? Hell no! It’s the adoption of the troubled rescue dog by his daughter. They fostered a lab puppy destined for service dog training and so heartbreak when they give him up. All is not lost!
Lucy is sound asleep on her bed with her new dog curled into her side. He lifts his head, blinks sleepily at me, then lays it back down on her chest.
To mine and Ella’s surprise, after playing with the puppies and walking the rows of cages, Lucy decided on adopting an older dog, who was frankly… unadoptable. He’d been at the shelter for almost six months. I can honestly say he’s the ugliest dog I’ve ever seen. Lucy named him Tramp, and his fur is all wiry and stiff. Half an ear is missing, presumably from a fight on the streets before he was brought in, and somehow his tail had gotten broken and mended at an odd angle halfway down.
Dogs aside, there is a nice romance here. All in all, well done second chance romance where the H realizes he has sidelined his wife and daughter for his own career and wants and needs. The author does an excellent job detailing how he carelessly disregarded his marriage for his career.
No cheating, and all around pretty nice characters.
Lucy is sound asleep on her bed with her new dog curled into her side. He lifts his head, blinks sleepily at me, then lays it back down on her chest.
To mine and Ella’s surprise, after playing with the puppies and walking the rows of cages, Lucy decided on adopting an older dog, who was frankly… unadoptable. He’d been at the shelter for almost six months. I can honestly say he’s the ugliest dog I’ve ever seen. Lucy named him Tramp, and his fur is all wiry and stiff. Half an ear is missing, presumably from a fight on the streets before he was brought in, and somehow his tail had gotten broken and mended at an odd angle halfway down.
Dogs aside, there is a nice romance here. All in all, well done second chance romance where the H realizes he has sidelined his wife and daughter for his own career and wants and needs. The author does an excellent job detailing how he carelessly disregarded his marriage for his career.
No cheating, and all around pretty nice characters.
December 6, 2020
4.5 stars
Jim Steele is not a new professional hockey player, despite his fairly new status among the Vengeance team. His focus has been his hockey career, in the hopes that the financial stability he provides will take care of his family. But he doesn’t see that Ella has felt invisible and unnecessary while he has focused on hockey. Since she asked for a separation, he hasn’t known what to do, but when he discovers she is dating, jealousy and regret spur him to fight for what he wants: his wife and his family whole again.
Jim was rather clueless about what it really took to be family, and even Ella’s initial request for a separation didn’t change his actions. He just wanted her happy, but wasn’t really sure what he was missing in order to make her happy, so whatever she asked for, he gave her. He didn’t realize what she really wanted was time and attention, not things or even the separation she asked for.
Jim is one of those characters that is hard not to like, even as he is making mistakes in his marriage. None of his mistakes are conscious (and he is completely faithful to his wife, even during separation), he just wants his family back but doesn’t see the little changes that will make the world of difference. His determination to win Ella back is based on his love for her and the history they have together.
Ella didn’t fall out of love with Jim, but she did grow tired of being an afterthought to him. She didn’t know how to get him to change his focus and hoped that skiing for a separation would cause him to start working on the family. When it didn’t she tried to find what she was looking for, even as she still loved him.
This was a second chance romance between an established couple. I loved the change of pace - rather than getting to know each other it is all about fixing the relationship that was broken. Though we knew Jim wasn’t happy with the separation from what was shown in the background of previous Vengeance stories, seeing it from Jim & Ella’s eyes gave new light to their story.
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Jim Steele is not a new professional hockey player, despite his fairly new status among the Vengeance team. His focus has been his hockey career, in the hopes that the financial stability he provides will take care of his family. But he doesn’t see that Ella has felt invisible and unnecessary while he has focused on hockey. Since she asked for a separation, he hasn’t known what to do, but when he discovers she is dating, jealousy and regret spur him to fight for what he wants: his wife and his family whole again.
Jim was rather clueless about what it really took to be family, and even Ella’s initial request for a separation didn’t change his actions. He just wanted her happy, but wasn’t really sure what he was missing in order to make her happy, so whatever she asked for, he gave her. He didn’t realize what she really wanted was time and attention, not things or even the separation she asked for.
Jim is one of those characters that is hard not to like, even as he is making mistakes in his marriage. None of his mistakes are conscious (and he is completely faithful to his wife, even during separation), he just wants his family back but doesn’t see the little changes that will make the world of difference. His determination to win Ella back is based on his love for her and the history they have together.
Ella didn’t fall out of love with Jim, but she did grow tired of being an afterthought to him. She didn’t know how to get him to change his focus and hoped that skiing for a separation would cause him to start working on the family. When it didn’t she tried to find what she was looking for, even as she still loved him.
This was a second chance romance between an established couple. I loved the change of pace - rather than getting to know each other it is all about fixing the relationship that was broken. Though we knew Jim wasn’t happy with the separation from what was shown in the background of previous Vengeance stories, seeing it from Jim & Ella’s eyes gave new light to their story.
November 16, 2020
We’re nine books in, and I still can’t get enough of this series. Each book has its own flavor – some are extra spicy, some come with edge-of-your-seat thrills, and some – like this one – are just a simple, sweet, sexy love story that fill your heart in the most satisfying way.
I will be the first to admit that romances about married people – particularly those trying to salvage a relationship – are not my favorite. They often feel a little too real life to me. I read to escape and for me – that’s capturing the thrilling butterflies of budding romance. Falling in love for the first time – over and over and over again. That said, every once in a while I pick up a book about a struggling marriage and it is absolute romantic perfection. It delivers on the butterflies, it settles into my heart, and it’s everything I look for in a romance novel.
Steele was like that. It’s relatively low angst. Jim and Ella are two real, honest people who have already lived a lifetime together. There are no games or unnecessary drama here. Instead it’s an earnest story of two people rediscovering the reason they pledged their lives together. It’s a man wooing the heck out of his woman. It’s a woman opening her heart to the second chance. And tossed into the middle of that are a wise-beyond-her-years teenage daughter, and an adorable puppy.
Needless to say, my heart is very happy. Steele was the perfect decadent treat for my heart. It’s a quick read, but it felt like a snippet out of time in their relationship – which felt so real to me at every tender moment, every sizzling encounter. This was another fantastic date with these wonderful Arizona Vengeance guys – and even all these books later, I’m still ready for more! ~ Shelly, 4 stars
I will be the first to admit that romances about married people – particularly those trying to salvage a relationship – are not my favorite. They often feel a little too real life to me. I read to escape and for me – that’s capturing the thrilling butterflies of budding romance. Falling in love for the first time – over and over and over again. That said, every once in a while I pick up a book about a struggling marriage and it is absolute romantic perfection. It delivers on the butterflies, it settles into my heart, and it’s everything I look for in a romance novel.
Steele was like that. It’s relatively low angst. Jim and Ella are two real, honest people who have already lived a lifetime together. There are no games or unnecessary drama here. Instead it’s an earnest story of two people rediscovering the reason they pledged their lives together. It’s a man wooing the heck out of his woman. It’s a woman opening her heart to the second chance. And tossed into the middle of that are a wise-beyond-her-years teenage daughter, and an adorable puppy.
Needless to say, my heart is very happy. Steele was the perfect decadent treat for my heart. It’s a quick read, but it felt like a snippet out of time in their relationship – which felt so real to me at every tender moment, every sizzling encounter. This was another fantastic date with these wonderful Arizona Vengeance guys – and even all these books later, I’m still ready for more! ~ Shelly, 4 stars
December 10, 2020
Steele is the latest release in the Arizona Vengeance Series and I must say this man stole my heart. After years of marriage Steele and his wife Ella have separated, she asked him to leave and he didn't put up a fight he just left without really knowing what was wrong. It takes seeing his wife out with another man to wake him up and fight for what he wants.
Jim Steele learns its not good to get to complacent in his marriage, now he's pulling out all the stops to win his wife, Ella, back. I'm sure complacency has ended a bunch of marriages because who wants to be the one that is put last so when he realizes that this is what he has done with his wife all bets are off and he will do what ever it takes to win her back.
Read my full review here: http://bit.ly/NBReviewSteele
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
Jim Steele learns its not good to get to complacent in his marriage, now he's pulling out all the stops to win his wife, Ella, back. I'm sure complacency has ended a bunch of marriages because who wants to be the one that is put last so when he realizes that this is what he has done with his wife all bets are off and he will do what ever it takes to win her back.
Read my full review here: http://bit.ly/NBReviewSteele
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
December 5, 2020
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the ninth book in the series, and whilst I definitely would recommend that you read them in order, this is a lovely story which you could enjoy in its own right ... and then go back and catch up!
Steele had been a happily married man, completely oblivious to how badly he was treating his wife, Ella and daughter Lucy, working and playing hard at hockey and thinking that providing financially was more important than being present. This is a misapprehension which is not unusual, it has to be said! But Ella had enough and asked him to move out, and now six months later she has had a date with another man. Steele is destroyed by this ... because he still loves her, he just doesn't understand what he did wrong.
I loved his team mates supporting him to come to the realisation that he had to make some changes if he wanted his marriage to work. They are funny, but also genuinely care for him and his family. The mix of hockey and reuniting Steele and Ella is just right.
There are so many good bits to this book, and I have no intention of spoiling it for you - but it is one of those where once you have finished it, there are little incidents which you think back on and either sigh or smile. Rest assured that once Steele gets with what he has to do to, he is dedicated to showing Ella that he is serious when he says he loves her.
Thanks for another lovely read Sawyer Bennett!
This is the ninth book in the series, and whilst I definitely would recommend that you read them in order, this is a lovely story which you could enjoy in its own right ... and then go back and catch up!
Steele had been a happily married man, completely oblivious to how badly he was treating his wife, Ella and daughter Lucy, working and playing hard at hockey and thinking that providing financially was more important than being present. This is a misapprehension which is not unusual, it has to be said! But Ella had enough and asked him to move out, and now six months later she has had a date with another man. Steele is destroyed by this ... because he still loves her, he just doesn't understand what he did wrong.
I loved his team mates supporting him to come to the realisation that he had to make some changes if he wanted his marriage to work. They are funny, but also genuinely care for him and his family. The mix of hockey and reuniting Steele and Ella is just right.
There are so many good bits to this book, and I have no intention of spoiling it for you - but it is one of those where once you have finished it, there are little incidents which you think back on and either sigh or smile. Rest assured that once Steele gets with what he has to do to, he is dedicated to showing Ella that he is serious when he says he loves her.
Thanks for another lovely read Sawyer Bennett!
December 18, 2020
2 ⭐⭐ - Meh!
December 8, 2020
Well written.
Separated couple due to the husband being absorbed in his career and not making much time or attention for his wife.
I liked the idea but I didn't like that the wife is dating someone else.
They are separated but still married.
She has only kissed other man.
'“Because Mom kicked you out and you left and for months, you showed no interest in Mom, then once she starts dating someone—who is very nice, I might add—then you’re suddenly coming around more. And then Mom breaks up with David, and now you two are making googly eyes at each other.”'.
'Jim comes in for the rescue. “I haven’t been with anyone else, Ella. Not even a date. Haven’t wanted to. Haven’t felt the need to go fuck some woman just for the release, especially not when I only wanted you.”
My whole body seems to just collapse against him, and I didn’t realize I’d been holding myself so stiffly since this conversation started. I’ve never felt such relief, and it’s immediately followed by guilt.
“Oh, God,” I moan somewhat piteously. “And here I was, ready to move on with dating. I went out and dated another man, and you didn’t even look at another woman.”
“Not the same, Ella,” Jim replies, and I just don’t understand how he can be so understanding of my flaws. “It’s not the same because you were looking for something that would make you happy, and you deserved it. I’d already found it, and I knew I had the best I was ever going to get. I don’t hold it against you for trying to move on.”'
HEA.
Epilogue.
Separated couple due to the husband being absorbed in his career and not making much time or attention for his wife.
I liked the idea but I didn't like that the wife is dating someone else.
They are separated but still married.
She has only kissed other man.
'“Because Mom kicked you out and you left and for months, you showed no interest in Mom, then once she starts dating someone—who is very nice, I might add—then you’re suddenly coming around more. And then Mom breaks up with David, and now you two are making googly eyes at each other.”'.
'Jim comes in for the rescue. “I haven’t been with anyone else, Ella. Not even a date. Haven’t wanted to. Haven’t felt the need to go fuck some woman just for the release, especially not when I only wanted you.”
My whole body seems to just collapse against him, and I didn’t realize I’d been holding myself so stiffly since this conversation started. I’ve never felt such relief, and it’s immediately followed by guilt.
“Oh, God,” I moan somewhat piteously. “And here I was, ready to move on with dating. I went out and dated another man, and you didn’t even look at another woman.”
“Not the same, Ella,” Jim replies, and I just don’t understand how he can be so understanding of my flaws. “It’s not the same because you were looking for something that would make you happy, and you deserved it. I’d already found it, and I knew I had the best I was ever going to get. I don’t hold it against you for trying to move on.”'
HEA.
Epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2022
Jim Steele’s wife has left him because he put everything else before her. When he sees her out in a date, he realizes he’s not over her and decides he needs to fight to get her back.
I found myself skimming to finish.
I found myself skimming to finish.
December 8, 2020
*5 Stars*
ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this book. I was really excited for this, after the little glimpse we got previously in Kane. I haven't read. book before where the hero is trying to win back his wife. This was a fabulous story.
I was hooked right from the word go, and its an easy and fast read. Both main characters were likeable, and there was plenty of family time included with their daughter as well. Also some fun moments with our favourites from the Vengeance of course too.
I really liked the ease and flow of this one, and really don't have much else to say apart from the fact that I just loved it and highly recommend it.
Review also on my blog - Steele by Sawyer Bennett
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ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this book. I was really excited for this, after the little glimpse we got previously in Kane. I haven't read. book before where the hero is trying to win back his wife. This was a fabulous story.
I was hooked right from the word go, and its an easy and fast read. Both main characters were likeable, and there was plenty of family time included with their daughter as well. Also some fun moments with our favourites from the Vengeance of course too.
I really liked the ease and flow of this one, and really don't have much else to say apart from the fact that I just loved it and highly recommend it.
Review also on my blog - Steele by Sawyer Bennett
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December 15, 2020
Sweet, steamy hockey romance…
I LOVED Jim and Ella’s story! Married for years, with a teenage daughter, their marriage hit a railing. It really seemed like it was over. Months later, however, Jim had a wake-up call. If he did nothing, all would be lost, and he wasn’t ready for that. That’s when things got really, really interesting…
Facing hard truths, making a plan and letting it all play out meant Ella and their daughter Lucy saw a new, improved Jim and wow… He was sexy seriousness of the best order! He put himself in Ella’s shoes and wasn’t that the biggest incentive of all. With Lucy and puppies added to the mix, this second chance romance was steamy, loving, hockey-infused reading goodness! ~Diane, 4 stars
I LOVED Jim and Ella’s story! Married for years, with a teenage daughter, their marriage hit a railing. It really seemed like it was over. Months later, however, Jim had a wake-up call. If he did nothing, all would be lost, and he wasn’t ready for that. That’s when things got really, really interesting…
Facing hard truths, making a plan and letting it all play out meant Ella and their daughter Lucy saw a new, improved Jim and wow… He was sexy seriousness of the best order! He put himself in Ella’s shoes and wasn’t that the biggest incentive of all. With Lucy and puppies added to the mix, this second chance romance was steamy, loving, hockey-infused reading goodness! ~Diane, 4 stars
December 8, 2020
What can I say, this series just keeps getting better and better, and that is a lot to say, because this series started out phenomenal! Steele is the 9th book in Sawyer Bennett’s Arizona Vengeance series. I started reading it as soon as it hit my Kindle, and I could not put it down.
I REALLY loved reading Ella and Jim’s story. You could just feel the love between the two of them. I really enjoyed watching Jim go thru all the steps to win his wife’s and daughter’s love and trust back. Seeing them start to lose hope of being a family, killed me, but watching the hope in them start to blossom…. SIGH. Sorry Ladies, I will not give anything in the story away. I am so glad Jim received the kick in the pants when Ella started dating someone else! He finally woke up to the realization that he may lose his wife for good, the dumbash!!!
I really LOVED this book, and I loved the story of Ella and Jim. But, and yes, I have a “but”, and this “but” goes to ANY story and/or real-life reason for this type story, a person’s family should come above the job, i.e.: hanging out with the co-workers for fun, before the family. And, yes, I understand the occasional work emergency. I cannot even imagine what the “hockey” or any sports or entertainment spouses go thru, the separations for weeks at a time. It has got to be hard! Kudos to all of you!
I was gifted with this book for my reading pleasure, and for my opinions about the book. For this, I am eternally thankful.
Ms. Bennett, I wish to thank you, personally, for sharing your wonderful talents with your readers, especially now, during these times of covid. Thank you for letting me take my mind off all the problems I/we are all sharing currently. God Bless all of you, stay safe and healthy.
Thank you for reading my review. You, yes you! What are you waiting for, go hit that purchase button at your favorite retailer, and start reading this wonderful book!!!
EEK, I just heard that there is an audio version coming out soon. YES!!!
I REALLY loved reading Ella and Jim’s story. You could just feel the love between the two of them. I really enjoyed watching Jim go thru all the steps to win his wife’s and daughter’s love and trust back. Seeing them start to lose hope of being a family, killed me, but watching the hope in them start to blossom…. SIGH. Sorry Ladies, I will not give anything in the story away. I am so glad Jim received the kick in the pants when Ella started dating someone else! He finally woke up to the realization that he may lose his wife for good, the dumbash!!!
I really LOVED this book, and I loved the story of Ella and Jim. But, and yes, I have a “but”, and this “but” goes to ANY story and/or real-life reason for this type story, a person’s family should come above the job, i.e.: hanging out with the co-workers for fun, before the family. And, yes, I understand the occasional work emergency. I cannot even imagine what the “hockey” or any sports or entertainment spouses go thru, the separations for weeks at a time. It has got to be hard! Kudos to all of you!
I was gifted with this book for my reading pleasure, and for my opinions about the book. For this, I am eternally thankful.
Ms. Bennett, I wish to thank you, personally, for sharing your wonderful talents with your readers, especially now, during these times of covid. Thank you for letting me take my mind off all the problems I/we are all sharing currently. God Bless all of you, stay safe and healthy.
Thank you for reading my review. You, yes you! What are you waiting for, go hit that purchase button at your favorite retailer, and start reading this wonderful book!!!
EEK, I just heard that there is an audio version coming out soon. YES!!!
November 16, 2020
I absolutely love this series and each book seems to get better and better. We met Steele and Ella a few books back but only got a glimpse into their story. Too much hockey and not enough time spend with his family, made Ella feel like she second.
As Steele realizes that he doesn't want to lose his wife or end his marriage, he has to figure out how to win Ella back. Loving Jim Steele has never been a problem for Ella, coming second to his hockey buddies has been the problem. She felt he didn't have time for his wife and daughter. But when she starts dating someone else, she realizes that she doesn't want someone else, she wants Steele.
Can Steele convince Ella that he can change? Will Ella give him another chance to save their marriage? Can he win her heart again?
Although this was not my favorite I did love Jim and Ella's story, I can't resist a second chance romance. And when it comes to the Arizona Vengeance and Sawyer Bennett, I can't resist either of them. So sit back and enjoy it!
**Copy provided by the author and this is my honest review**
As Steele realizes that he doesn't want to lose his wife or end his marriage, he has to figure out how to win Ella back. Loving Jim Steele has never been a problem for Ella, coming second to his hockey buddies has been the problem. She felt he didn't have time for his wife and daughter. But when she starts dating someone else, she realizes that she doesn't want someone else, she wants Steele.
Can Steele convince Ella that he can change? Will Ella give him another chance to save their marriage? Can he win her heart again?
Although this was not my favorite I did love Jim and Ella's story, I can't resist a second chance romance. And when it comes to the Arizona Vengeance and Sawyer Bennett, I can't resist either of them. So sit back and enjoy it!
**Copy provided by the author and this is my honest review**
December 9, 2020
Steele was the ninth book in the Arizona Vengeance series by Sawyer Bennett. It can easily be read as a stand-alone but even better in order of the series.
Steele was a veteran hockey player with the NHL team, the Arizona Vengeance. We learned in previous books that he was separated from his wife, Ella, but still very much in love with her. The storyline picked up as slightly a crossover from the previous book, Kane.
I loved how Bennett set the stage in the first few chapters. It was purely from Steele’s POV and focused on the realization of how he messed up over the years. Ella was his wife, who he was now separated from, and Lucy was their thirteen year old daughter, who also had a vital part in the storyline. Ella and Steele had been together since high school and he loved her deeply but he hadn’t realized how much he had neglected their family and put them solely behind his hockey career - every. single. time. It was also his realization that he not only had to win his wife back, but his daughter back as well. And it wasn’t an easy road. He messed up and he had messed up big and on too many occasions. All trust was lost so he was starting over.
Bennett took us through a journey. I appreciated that she didn’t have either one of them cave and give in immediately nor did they make it all about sex. Bennett took us through real discussions with real challenges. I could even imagine this scenario having played out many times in the life of a professional athlete and their family. The struggles were raw, real and believable. My review couldn’t possibly do it justice without spoilers, but it was definitely a worthy read.
In all, I love all of Bennett’s books, especially her hockey series; however, this was one of my favorites. Maybe because it was a second chance for life and it was so hard fought and real. Regardless, I loved every moment.
Steele was a veteran hockey player with the NHL team, the Arizona Vengeance. We learned in previous books that he was separated from his wife, Ella, but still very much in love with her. The storyline picked up as slightly a crossover from the previous book, Kane.
I loved how Bennett set the stage in the first few chapters. It was purely from Steele’s POV and focused on the realization of how he messed up over the years. Ella was his wife, who he was now separated from, and Lucy was their thirteen year old daughter, who also had a vital part in the storyline. Ella and Steele had been together since high school and he loved her deeply but he hadn’t realized how much he had neglected their family and put them solely behind his hockey career - every. single. time. It was also his realization that he not only had to win his wife back, but his daughter back as well. And it wasn’t an easy road. He messed up and he had messed up big and on too many occasions. All trust was lost so he was starting over.
Bennett took us through a journey. I appreciated that she didn’t have either one of them cave and give in immediately nor did they make it all about sex. Bennett took us through real discussions with real challenges. I could even imagine this scenario having played out many times in the life of a professional athlete and their family. The struggles were raw, real and believable. My review couldn’t possibly do it justice without spoilers, but it was definitely a worthy read.
In all, I love all of Bennett’s books, especially her hockey series; however, this was one of my favorites. Maybe because it was a second chance for life and it was so hard fought and real. Regardless, I loved every moment.
November 27, 2020
*I received a free review copy of Steele. This has in no way influenced my voluntary review which is honest and unbiased.*
Bennett took the second chance at love trope a step further in Steele for sure. And this is one of my top favorite tropes in romance novels, so I was a happy reader from start to finish.
I felt for Ella so much, especially how the last part of her marriage to Jim had not been about their family at all. At the same time, when Jim finally woke up - he definitely woke up. It was simply beautiful to see how imaginative he was in wooing his wife to win her back.
This story in the Arizona Vengeance series is more about family, but there is definitely some great hockey as well. And I was so totally there for it!
Bennett took the second chance at love trope a step further in Steele for sure. And this is one of my top favorite tropes in romance novels, so I was a happy reader from start to finish.
I felt for Ella so much, especially how the last part of her marriage to Jim had not been about their family at all. At the same time, when Jim finally woke up - he definitely woke up. It was simply beautiful to see how imaginative he was in wooing his wife to win her back.
This story in the Arizona Vengeance series is more about family, but there is definitely some great hockey as well. And I was so totally there for it!
December 8, 2020
Hockey is life for Jim aka Steele. Although he loves his family, he lives and breathes hockey. A bit surprised at Ella's request to separate, he starts to question his life. He wants that second chance with his wife and to put back his family. Steele really goes over and beyond to win back the love of his life and his daughter. These two were really sweet together. Their love was strong and Jim just needed to see what was right in front of him, not neglect the love of his life and daughter. I really enjoy the Vengeance team and looking forward to more!
November 19, 2020
Loved this hero! This was actually pretty sweet and adorable, with a completely different kind of love story than I'm used to. This married couple already loves each other, and it's that deep love that only comes from years upon years together. Our hero has taken his relationship for granted, and it's only once he's lost the most important person in his life that he realizes what he let get away. It's emotional but not heavy, instead focusing on rebuilding this couple's marriage and moving forward with a relationship that's stronger than ever.
The story follows Jim, a pro hockey player whose wife left him about 5 months ago. They're high school sweethearts who have been together for over a decade, and neither one ever thought there'd be a time when they were apart. There's still plenty of love between them, but Jim let other things take priority over his marriage, taking his wife and daughter for granted. Tired of being an afterthought, Ella finally asked Jim to move out. The finality of the move didn't really strike Jim... until he saw his wife out on a date with another man. Spurred into action, Jim is determined to put his family back together before it's too late.
I really wasn't sure what to expect from this one, and I was pleasantly surprised. In Kane's book, we saw Ella out with another guy and I was definitely worried about how that drama would all play out. I shouldn't have worried. Yes, she is dating another man, but let's just say that nothing irreparable happens. I didn't necessarily love the situation, but it's also essential to the story. There's no major drama; the book is easy and light with touches of emotion throughout. I loved Jim's determination and loyalty, his unwavering support of his wife and the sweetness of the tone. It's a quick, easy story that flies by. There were definitely a couple of elements that I would've tweaked, but nothing holding me back from enjoying the story. I'm looking forward to more love stories from this group of characters. I received an early copy via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review of this marriage in trouble romance.
The story follows Jim, a pro hockey player whose wife left him about 5 months ago. They're high school sweethearts who have been together for over a decade, and neither one ever thought there'd be a time when they were apart. There's still plenty of love between them, but Jim let other things take priority over his marriage, taking his wife and daughter for granted. Tired of being an afterthought, Ella finally asked Jim to move out. The finality of the move didn't really strike Jim... until he saw his wife out on a date with another man. Spurred into action, Jim is determined to put his family back together before it's too late.
I really wasn't sure what to expect from this one, and I was pleasantly surprised. In Kane's book, we saw Ella out with another guy and I was definitely worried about how that drama would all play out. I shouldn't have worried. Yes, she is dating another man, but let's just say that nothing irreparable happens. I didn't necessarily love the situation, but it's also essential to the story. There's no major drama; the book is easy and light with touches of emotion throughout. I loved Jim's determination and loyalty, his unwavering support of his wife and the sweetness of the tone. It's a quick, easy story that flies by. There were definitely a couple of elements that I would've tweaked, but nothing holding me back from enjoying the story. I'm looking forward to more love stories from this group of characters. I received an early copy via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review of this marriage in trouble romance.
December 8, 2020
4 🌟
Finally!! I was waiting SOOOOOO long for this one. From the previous book in the series, Kane, I felt this HEAT 🔥 between Steele and Ella that I knew they’re book was going to be AWESOME!! And it was...they have a genuine connection, great chemistry and they’re daughter is SO CUTE!! They’re were some quirky and adorable moments in this book!! I honestly wish their story lasted forever! As such, if you’re looking for something sweet, funny, cute and spicy to read, I definitely recommend this one. Happy Reading 🥰!!
My Aesthetic for the book: https://www.instagram.com/p/CIjWUzHDA...
Finally!! I was waiting SOOOOOO long for this one. From the previous book in the series, Kane, I felt this HEAT 🔥 between Steele and Ella that I knew they’re book was going to be AWESOME!! And it was...they have a genuine connection, great chemistry and they’re daughter is SO CUTE!! They’re were some quirky and adorable moments in this book!! I honestly wish their story lasted forever! As such, if you’re looking for something sweet, funny, cute and spicy to read, I definitely recommend this one. Happy Reading 🥰!!
My Aesthetic for the book: https://www.instagram.com/p/CIjWUzHDA...
December 10, 2020
4 stars
December 8, 2020
5 stars!
Steele by Sawyer Bennett is book #9 in the Arizona Vengeance Series and for me is a top favorite in the series! I totally swooned over Jim Steele and his pursuit to win his wife back.
From the outrageous scene in Kane's book of Jim and Kane stalking Ella on a date with a new man I have been dying to get his story.
Steele is a veteran player on the team. He has been on the team from the beginning, being traded from the Quebec Royals and is a left winger on the team's second line. Jim is rugged, and handsome, charming and passionate. He has recently lost his way with his wife and they have been separated for the past six months. That is until he realizes his wife is dating and he could potentially loose her forever.
I loved this story because it isn't often we get stories about a married couple that are in need of repair. It makes it a real and relatable story because it can so easily happen becoming complacent in a marriage and not appreciating one another.
Jim pulls out all the stops to win Ella back. His persistence and refusal to give up on his marriage I adored. I loved his sweet romantic gestures to prove to his wife he is in it for the long haul and his eyes and ears are open when it comes to the things that were not working in their marriage before their separation.
Ella is so down to earth. She is sweet and caring but also bold and passionate. She works hard and has been Jim's number one fan throughout their marriage. Jim was not only her husband and partner but also her best friend and their separation was devastating to her but she knows her worth and knows that she deserve to be happy and she wasn't going to accept anything less.
As Jim and Ella begin to reconnect she wasn't quick to trust him again but from the beginning it is evident that she loves and adores Jim so much and her resistance was to protect her heart more than anything.
Jim and Ella are high school sweethearts. They fell in love young, married and have a daughter all before 20 years old. Lucy, their now 13 year old daughter plays a big part of this story and the moment Jim gets back into daughter's good graces and becomes an ally in trying to help her Dad win back her Mom was just the sweetest.
I say this with every review in this series but it bears repeating. The Arizona Vengeance are not just a hockey team. They are a family. From the team owner, to the coach to the players and their wives and children they come together for each other in times of need. I loved how the wives welcomed Ella into their close knit circle so easily and of course she fit right in. I loved getting to know more about Baden, and his injuries, Jett and a potential new love interest, and prickly Riggs and his sister that he looking after and I need more asap!
Sawyer Bennett is an incredible author. Even after nine books in the series I will never tire of these characters. Steele is another fabulous read that left me satisfied and my heart full.
*Advanced reader copy generously received by the author in exchange of an honest review.
Steele by Sawyer Bennett is book #9 in the Arizona Vengeance Series and for me is a top favorite in the series! I totally swooned over Jim Steele and his pursuit to win his wife back.
From the outrageous scene in Kane's book of Jim and Kane stalking Ella on a date with a new man I have been dying to get his story.
Steele is a veteran player on the team. He has been on the team from the beginning, being traded from the Quebec Royals and is a left winger on the team's second line. Jim is rugged, and handsome, charming and passionate. He has recently lost his way with his wife and they have been separated for the past six months. That is until he realizes his wife is dating and he could potentially loose her forever.
I loved this story because it isn't often we get stories about a married couple that are in need of repair. It makes it a real and relatable story because it can so easily happen becoming complacent in a marriage and not appreciating one another.
Jim pulls out all the stops to win Ella back. His persistence and refusal to give up on his marriage I adored. I loved his sweet romantic gestures to prove to his wife he is in it for the long haul and his eyes and ears are open when it comes to the things that were not working in their marriage before their separation.
Ella is so down to earth. She is sweet and caring but also bold and passionate. She works hard and has been Jim's number one fan throughout their marriage. Jim was not only her husband and partner but also her best friend and their separation was devastating to her but she knows her worth and knows that she deserve to be happy and she wasn't going to accept anything less.
As Jim and Ella begin to reconnect she wasn't quick to trust him again but from the beginning it is evident that she loves and adores Jim so much and her resistance was to protect her heart more than anything.
Jim and Ella are high school sweethearts. They fell in love young, married and have a daughter all before 20 years old. Lucy, their now 13 year old daughter plays a big part of this story and the moment Jim gets back into daughter's good graces and becomes an ally in trying to help her Dad win back her Mom was just the sweetest.
I say this with every review in this series but it bears repeating. The Arizona Vengeance are not just a hockey team. They are a family. From the team owner, to the coach to the players and their wives and children they come together for each other in times of need. I loved how the wives welcomed Ella into their close knit circle so easily and of course she fit right in. I loved getting to know more about Baden, and his injuries, Jett and a potential new love interest, and prickly Riggs and his sister that he looking after and I need more asap!
Sawyer Bennett is an incredible author. Even after nine books in the series I will never tire of these characters. Steele is another fabulous read that left me satisfied and my heart full.
*Advanced reader copy generously received by the author in exchange of an honest review.
December 7, 2020
You know when somethings appear in your life at the right moment? Sigh...I don't have word to describe how awesome this book turned out to be for me. I've been in a funk in my relationship lately and I could relate on so many levels with Ella. All the feelings she was feeling I was feeling with her.
It's strange when you have a everything you could ever want but still feel alone. And it gave me so much joy to see Jim seeing his mistakes and trying so hard to correct them. But what I liked the most is that at the end of the day it takes two to build a relationship so I was beyond happy that they managed to find a way to navigate this hard thing that is called marriage.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
It's strange when you have a everything you could ever want but still feel alone. And it gave me so much joy to see Jim seeing his mistakes and trying so hard to correct them. But what I liked the most is that at the end of the day it takes two to build a relationship so I was beyond happy that they managed to find a way to navigate this hard thing that is called marriage.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
December 13, 2020
❤~🌟~❤ 4.5 TEAM STEELE STARS! ❤~🌟~❤
“I’m playing to win.“
Marriage in Crisis romances make my heart skip a beat —and are a rarity in this industry—so when I learned that the next Arizona Vengeance book had that trope I was positively giddy with anticipation! And holy wowza did Sawyer Bennet hit a huge goalie with STEELE!
PREMISE:
As one of the oldest Arizona Vengeance players, hocky legend Jim Steele realized one of his lifelong dreams when his team won the Stanley Cup the prior season. But oftentimes pursing one’s passions comes with immense sacrifices. And while Ella, his high school sweetheart, and beloved wife for over a decade, has always been his one true love, and he adores his 13-year-old daughter Lucy to the moon and back, putting his career before his loved ones came at the ultimate cost. His family. And he had no choice but to abide by Ella’s wishes when she reached the end of her rope and kicked him to the curb.
Their separation took a toll on his whole family. And as time went by the divide between Jim and Ella became wider than ever, and his relationship with his moody teenage daughter was no walk in the park either. Which had the down in the dumps hockey dad pretty much resigning himself to his fate...and taking full responsibility for the sad state of affairs. But when he spotted Ella on a date--with ANOTHER dude-- it was a gamechanger! Just the mere thought of anyone other than himself ever putting his hands on his wife drove him CRAAAAZY! But now the reality of her actually moving on with her life—and possibly falling in love with “Mr. Ordinary”--was a HUGE wakeup call. Consumed with hurt and envy, he puts a plan on motion to woo his wife and win back his daughter’s respect. But while he and Ella always had a burning hot chemistry—and their attraction for each other is still as thermal as ever--reconciliation is fraught with challenges. For Ella can’t forget how her own husband treated her like an afterthought.
Can Jim finally prioritize his life, repair his broken family and put his wife and daughter’s needs first? My lips are sealed on that front but lemme just say that Jim is IN IT TO WIN IT. And once Lucy jumps on the #reuniteMomand Dad bandwagon, luck just might be on his side! But when a golden opportunity strikes, will history repeat itself...or will true love finally prevail?
MY MUSINGS:
Oh my!! In this 9th incredibly heartfelt and mega hot installment in the ARIZONA VENGEANCE series, there are sparks and steamy hot interludes and swoony feels galore. And I was enamored with this tantalizingly tumultuous reunion romance from page one! One of my favorite aspects of a marriage in crisis tales is that there’s always such a rich history, intimate familiarity and deep, intense level of love between the MCs, that the couple has INSTANT ROOTING VALUE. And the emotional and physical bond between Ella and Jim is UNDENIABLE! The painstaking journey that this estranged duo embark on to try and recapture what they once lost is brimming with passion and heartache, hope and healing and so many warm fuzzy moments I was beside myself with joy!
Jim and Ella always had that once in a lifetime love and thought nothing could ever tear them asunder. UNTIL IT DID. You know how they say that sometimes we don’t realize how special something is until it slips out of our grasp? Well, that’s exactly what happened in Jim and Ella’s case. The hockey hottie took their love for granted and assumed she would always be his rock of Gibraltar but their love needed nurturing and he’d fallen down badly on the job!
But alas, true love is always worth fighting for, and forgiveness and atonement are within reach. If you want it badly enough. While juggling his hockey duties and his burning mission to reclaim his family are no easy feat, Jim is a man on a mission. And no matter what it takes he is determined to romance his wife—as she deserved—and show her and his daughter in every way possible that they –NOT HOCKEY—are the center of his world! I love that not only is this a beautifully and heartwarming second chance at love story in which a couple rolls up their sleeves to mend one another’s hearts and rebuild their shattered trust, but it’s also a tale that really explores the transformative power of love. And I relished every single moment of it. Both these characters totally captured my heart—and crushed it as well. And, for me, fully fleshed out, and achingly human protagonists who make me emphasize with their plight is the hallmark of an engrossing love story that’s guaranteed to leave a lasting impression!
As always, the steamy sexcapades melted my Kindle and it goes without saying that the hockey backdrop was the bomb! Not only did I love the action sequences on the field and the camaraderie with Steele’s AV family and the team wives, but it was a pure delight to get recaps on our favorite couples. And I would remiss not to give a shoutout to Lucy and her stinking cute foster puppy, Brody, who really infused this story with so many feel good moments! Not to mention that the daddy/daughter bonding scenes between Jim and his “Lucy Goosey” had my ovaries combusting!
BOTTOM LINE:
STEELE satiated me on every level, the HEA was pitch perfect—and had me blinking back tears—and now I CANNOT WAIT for the book 10!
Highly Recommend!
“I’m playing to win.“
Marriage in Crisis romances make my heart skip a beat —and are a rarity in this industry—so when I learned that the next Arizona Vengeance book had that trope I was positively giddy with anticipation! And holy wowza did Sawyer Bennet hit a huge goalie with STEELE!
PREMISE:
As one of the oldest Arizona Vengeance players, hocky legend Jim Steele realized one of his lifelong dreams when his team won the Stanley Cup the prior season. But oftentimes pursing one’s passions comes with immense sacrifices. And while Ella, his high school sweetheart, and beloved wife for over a decade, has always been his one true love, and he adores his 13-year-old daughter Lucy to the moon and back, putting his career before his loved ones came at the ultimate cost. His family. And he had no choice but to abide by Ella’s wishes when she reached the end of her rope and kicked him to the curb.
Their separation took a toll on his whole family. And as time went by the divide between Jim and Ella became wider than ever, and his relationship with his moody teenage daughter was no walk in the park either. Which had the down in the dumps hockey dad pretty much resigning himself to his fate...and taking full responsibility for the sad state of affairs. But when he spotted Ella on a date--with ANOTHER dude-- it was a gamechanger! Just the mere thought of anyone other than himself ever putting his hands on his wife drove him CRAAAAZY! But now the reality of her actually moving on with her life—and possibly falling in love with “Mr. Ordinary”--was a HUGE wakeup call. Consumed with hurt and envy, he puts a plan on motion to woo his wife and win back his daughter’s respect. But while he and Ella always had a burning hot chemistry—and their attraction for each other is still as thermal as ever--reconciliation is fraught with challenges. For Ella can’t forget how her own husband treated her like an afterthought.
Can Jim finally prioritize his life, repair his broken family and put his wife and daughter’s needs first? My lips are sealed on that front but lemme just say that Jim is IN IT TO WIN IT. And once Lucy jumps on the #reuniteMomand Dad bandwagon, luck just might be on his side! But when a golden opportunity strikes, will history repeat itself...or will true love finally prevail?
MY MUSINGS:
Oh my!! In this 9th incredibly heartfelt and mega hot installment in the ARIZONA VENGEANCE series, there are sparks and steamy hot interludes and swoony feels galore. And I was enamored with this tantalizingly tumultuous reunion romance from page one! One of my favorite aspects of a marriage in crisis tales is that there’s always such a rich history, intimate familiarity and deep, intense level of love between the MCs, that the couple has INSTANT ROOTING VALUE. And the emotional and physical bond between Ella and Jim is UNDENIABLE! The painstaking journey that this estranged duo embark on to try and recapture what they once lost is brimming with passion and heartache, hope and healing and so many warm fuzzy moments I was beside myself with joy!
Jim and Ella always had that once in a lifetime love and thought nothing could ever tear them asunder. UNTIL IT DID. You know how they say that sometimes we don’t realize how special something is until it slips out of our grasp? Well, that’s exactly what happened in Jim and Ella’s case. The hockey hottie took their love for granted and assumed she would always be his rock of Gibraltar but their love needed nurturing and he’d fallen down badly on the job!
But alas, true love is always worth fighting for, and forgiveness and atonement are within reach. If you want it badly enough. While juggling his hockey duties and his burning mission to reclaim his family are no easy feat, Jim is a man on a mission. And no matter what it takes he is determined to romance his wife—as she deserved—and show her and his daughter in every way possible that they –NOT HOCKEY—are the center of his world! I love that not only is this a beautifully and heartwarming second chance at love story in which a couple rolls up their sleeves to mend one another’s hearts and rebuild their shattered trust, but it’s also a tale that really explores the transformative power of love. And I relished every single moment of it. Both these characters totally captured my heart—and crushed it as well. And, for me, fully fleshed out, and achingly human protagonists who make me emphasize with their plight is the hallmark of an engrossing love story that’s guaranteed to leave a lasting impression!
As always, the steamy sexcapades melted my Kindle and it goes without saying that the hockey backdrop was the bomb! Not only did I love the action sequences on the field and the camaraderie with Steele’s AV family and the team wives, but it was a pure delight to get recaps on our favorite couples. And I would remiss not to give a shoutout to Lucy and her stinking cute foster puppy, Brody, who really infused this story with so many feel good moments! Not to mention that the daddy/daughter bonding scenes between Jim and his “Lucy Goosey” had my ovaries combusting!
BOTTOM LINE:
STEELE satiated me on every level, the HEA was pitch perfect—and had me blinking back tears—and now I CANNOT WAIT for the book 10!
Highly Recommend!
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