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Florida Glaze Hockey #2
Trial by Fire
Chemistry this explosive won’t stay hidden for long…
Hotel heiress Prestyn Caine is fed up with men, with her job, with her life. From banging on the glass ceiling, to being catfished, to having to work with the world’s most misogynistic boss, her trust in the opposite sex is non-existent. And yet, loneliness keeps creeping in.
Professional goalie Nick Williams knows the limelight comes with the job but hates it all the same. People either want something from him or want to use him on their way to the top. Dating just doesn’t seem worth it, no matter how nice it would be to be able to trust someone.
Despite a tumultuous beginning, Prestyn and Nick discover a secret, no-strings-attached situation might be the perfect set up for them both. As long as they can keep their feelings in check, it doesn’t matter that the chemistry between them is hot enough to melt ice, right?
Hotel heiress Prestyn Caine is fed up with men, with her job, with her life. From banging on the glass ceiling, to being catfished, to having to work with the world’s most misogynistic boss, her trust in the opposite sex is non-existent. And yet, loneliness keeps creeping in.
Professional goalie Nick Williams knows the limelight comes with the job but hates it all the same. People either want something from him or want to use him on their way to the top. Dating just doesn’t seem worth it, no matter how nice it would be to be able to trust someone.
Despite a tumultuous beginning, Prestyn and Nick discover a secret, no-strings-attached situation might be the perfect set up for them both. As long as they can keep their feelings in check, it doesn’t matter that the chemistry between them is hot enough to melt ice, right?
282 pages, ebook
Published July 28, 2022
14 people are currently reading
266 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
August 1, 2022
Nick Williams is the goalie for the Florida Glaze and as much as he loves what he does, there is one thing he really doesn’t - being in the public eye. Crazy right? Participating in PR activities is an important part of his job and speaking to the media is unavoidable. Nick enjoys his privacy, going out after games rarely happens, he prefers to be at home relaxing and reading poetry.
Prestyn Caine is the daughter of the Caine Hotel Empire owner. She works in the business, along with her brothers. She is passionate about what they do and is very careful about who she dates, also preferring to keep out of the public eye.
When Prestyn gets catfished on a dating website, she becomes friends with Delaney, Nick’s sister. Somehow she convinces Prestyn to be Nick’s date for the annual fundraising ball that Florida Glaze have each year at the Caine hotel that Prestyn works at. She finds herself saying yes, she will conveniently be there already so why not?
Nick is initially not on board with his sister’s plan but knows he has to do some PR stuff to keep the coach happy so to the ball he goes. Once he meets Prestyn he is pleasantly surprised to find out that they have more in common than he would have thought. There is definitely a huge amount of attraction there and it seems that they both could benefit from this.
A no strings FWB arrangement is just they both need to scratch that itch when either of them has the need to, a casual thing with no expectations or commitment needed from either of them. However, when things start to move from sex to hanging out, watching tv and sleepovers - the lines begin to blur. When feelings begin to emerge because they don’t want to miss out on the fun, Nick’s old insecurities about relationships swoop in to mess everything up. They both know what they were signing up for so why does it hurt so bad to say goodbye?
This is the second story in this series about different players in the Florida Glaze ice hockey team. It can be read as a stand alone but also has cameos from characters in the previous book. There was plenty of steamy heat and romance plus the added bonus of a villain character hell bent on causing trouble!
Prestyn Caine is the daughter of the Caine Hotel Empire owner. She works in the business, along with her brothers. She is passionate about what they do and is very careful about who she dates, also preferring to keep out of the public eye.
When Prestyn gets catfished on a dating website, she becomes friends with Delaney, Nick’s sister. Somehow she convinces Prestyn to be Nick’s date for the annual fundraising ball that Florida Glaze have each year at the Caine hotel that Prestyn works at. She finds herself saying yes, she will conveniently be there already so why not?
Nick is initially not on board with his sister’s plan but knows he has to do some PR stuff to keep the coach happy so to the ball he goes. Once he meets Prestyn he is pleasantly surprised to find out that they have more in common than he would have thought. There is definitely a huge amount of attraction there and it seems that they both could benefit from this.
A no strings FWB arrangement is just they both need to scratch that itch when either of them has the need to, a casual thing with no expectations or commitment needed from either of them. However, when things start to move from sex to hanging out, watching tv and sleepovers - the lines begin to blur. When feelings begin to emerge because they don’t want to miss out on the fun, Nick’s old insecurities about relationships swoop in to mess everything up. They both know what they were signing up for so why does it hurt so bad to say goodbye?
This is the second story in this series about different players in the Florida Glaze ice hockey team. It can be read as a stand alone but also has cameos from characters in the previous book. There was plenty of steamy heat and romance plus the added bonus of a villain character hell bent on causing trouble!
July 29, 2022
This. Book. Is. Smoking. HOT!!! 🔥🔥🔥
Its a scorching 5-star read. This series is quickly becoming one of my favorites. Prestyn and Nick have amazing chemistry (a must for me), engaging dialogue, and of course, all the steamy, steamy heat you were hoping for. This entire series is fantastic right from the start (including the prequel novella). I whole-heartedly recommend this series for your next sports romance read.
Its a scorching 5-star read. This series is quickly becoming one of my favorites. Prestyn and Nick have amazing chemistry (a must for me), engaging dialogue, and of course, all the steamy, steamy heat you were hoping for. This entire series is fantastic right from the start (including the prequel novella). I whole-heartedly recommend this series for your next sports romance read.
July 25, 2022
'She takes a deep breath and her face begins to blush. If that means what I think it does…
“I just want one night of unbridled passion. Just to scratch the itch. I want the feel of a man’s body over mine, the touch and the… the I don’t know how to say it without sounding like a porn star…”
“The feel of skin-on-skin contact?” Her eyes whip up to mine. “Fingers running through your hair and the grip of a hand on your hip?”'
I'm now heralding "Trial by Fire" as my favourite ME Carter book of all time. Well, until she writes the next one in this sexy and captivating sports romance series.
Each book has been incredible, but none more so than this newest addition to the Florida Glaze team. Everything about it just feels fresh, entertaining and utterly compelling.
From the protagonists to the snappy dialogue, the side characters and their comical interactions, to the more intimate, tantalising and sensual elements, this book has it all. You'll discover an abundance of laughter, lust and love.
What I sincerely loved about the story was how respectful, supportive and compassionate the women were of each other. Even when it felt like there was so much to rail against, to feel maudlin and hateful over, ME Carter created an environment that was just so damn uplifting to experience. It was so refreshing and moving to be a part of a romance with a strong female solidarity message like this one.
ME has really hit her stride with these books. The level of writing is exceptional. The characters are everything sweet and sexy and flawed. And that happy-ever-after is just as lovely as pomegranate.
“I just want one night of unbridled passion. Just to scratch the itch. I want the feel of a man’s body over mine, the touch and the… the I don’t know how to say it without sounding like a porn star…”
“The feel of skin-on-skin contact?” Her eyes whip up to mine. “Fingers running through your hair and the grip of a hand on your hip?”'
I'm now heralding "Trial by Fire" as my favourite ME Carter book of all time. Well, until she writes the next one in this sexy and captivating sports romance series.
Each book has been incredible, but none more so than this newest addition to the Florida Glaze team. Everything about it just feels fresh, entertaining and utterly compelling.
From the protagonists to the snappy dialogue, the side characters and their comical interactions, to the more intimate, tantalising and sensual elements, this book has it all. You'll discover an abundance of laughter, lust and love.
What I sincerely loved about the story was how respectful, supportive and compassionate the women were of each other. Even when it felt like there was so much to rail against, to feel maudlin and hateful over, ME Carter created an environment that was just so damn uplifting to experience. It was so refreshing and moving to be a part of a romance with a strong female solidarity message like this one.
ME has really hit her stride with these books. The level of writing is exceptional. The characters are everything sweet and sexy and flawed. And that happy-ever-after is just as lovely as pomegranate.
August 2, 2022
Nick Williams loves his job as a professional hockey player for the Florida Glaze but hates all of the media attention that goes with it. It's only gotten worse since he was named Tampa's most eligible bachelor a few months ago. As if that weren't bad enough, his team's management has started to enforce the provision in his contract that requires Nick to make himself available for interviews and public appearances, starting with the team's annual charity gala. His twin sister Delaney insists that he needs a date for the gala, so she sets him up with her new friend, hotel heiress Prestyn Caine. After Nick and Prestyn bond over their shared dislike of the spotlight and prior bad experiences with dates who were mostly interested in their money, she proposes a friends with benefits arrangement. It's not long before their intense chemistry gives way to real feelings, but neither is prepared for the consequences. Will Prestyn and Nick be able to walk away from each other without getting hurt, or will at least one heart get broken in the process?
The chemistry sizzled between Nick and Prestyn from the moment they met, but their emotional connection grew quickly too. They had a unique understanding that transcended a typical friends with benefits arrangement, and before either of them knew what had happened, they were falling in love. I adored their witty banter as well as the fact that they were such likeable, three-dimensional characters. As a poetry-loving introvert, Nick was nothing like a "typical" hockey player, and Prestyn wasn't a "typical" heiress, either. She worked hard and genuinely wanted to contribute to the family business, though her family and horrible boss (her older brother's best friend) didn't make that easy. For that reason, the resolution of her story arc was immensely satisfying to me even if it didn't happen in quite the way I predicted.
Overall, I very much enjoyed "Trial by Fire" and highly recommend it for all contemporary/sports romance fans. I look forward to the next book in the series.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
The chemistry sizzled between Nick and Prestyn from the moment they met, but their emotional connection grew quickly too. They had a unique understanding that transcended a typical friends with benefits arrangement, and before either of them knew what had happened, they were falling in love. I adored their witty banter as well as the fact that they were such likeable, three-dimensional characters. As a poetry-loving introvert, Nick was nothing like a "typical" hockey player, and Prestyn wasn't a "typical" heiress, either. She worked hard and genuinely wanted to contribute to the family business, though her family and horrible boss (her older brother's best friend) didn't make that easy. For that reason, the resolution of her story arc was immensely satisfying to me even if it didn't happen in quite the way I predicted.
Overall, I very much enjoyed "Trial by Fire" and highly recommend it for all contemporary/sports romance fans. I look forward to the next book in the series.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 19, 2023
Trial By Fire (Florida Glaze #2) - 5 Stars
“I just wanna play hockey and enjoy a good book” Trial By Fire was my first enticement into the hockey romance genre, I had to have it and now I’m brazen for more!!
After an online date goes horribly off course Prestyn finds herself being set up on a blind date with one of the Florida Glaze Hockey team’s most eligible bachelors Nick and they agree on a no-strings attached secret sex pact, until keeping their dirty little secret becomes too hard to hide.
The banter between all the hockey players throughout the book (the yoga?!?) created great side characters and plot that brought connection and hilarity into the series. I found it to be super realistic that both Prestyn and Nick had their own unique baggage to work through and now I need to go read the rest of the series from book one!
Huge thank you to M.E. Carter and her publishing team for this amazing ARC and starting my obsession with hockey romance.
“I just wanna play hockey and enjoy a good book” Trial By Fire was my first enticement into the hockey romance genre, I had to have it and now I’m brazen for more!!
After an online date goes horribly off course Prestyn finds herself being set up on a blind date with one of the Florida Glaze Hockey team’s most eligible bachelors Nick and they agree on a no-strings attached secret sex pact, until keeping their dirty little secret becomes too hard to hide.
The banter between all the hockey players throughout the book (the yoga?!?) created great side characters and plot that brought connection and hilarity into the series. I found it to be super realistic that both Prestyn and Nick had their own unique baggage to work through and now I need to go read the rest of the series from book one!
Huge thank you to M.E. Carter and her publishing team for this amazing ARC and starting my obsession with hockey romance.
July 23, 2022
4.5⭐
It's been ages since I last read a hockey romance and an M.E. Carter story. So, when I got the opportunity to read an early copy of Trial by Fire, I jumped at it and I'm so glad I did.
As this was such a fun and steamy read. That not only had a great storyline but characters who were relatable, likable and engaging too.
And I loved how not only Nick and Prestyn were introduced to each other. But how Prestyn first becomes friends with Nicks twin sister Delaney.
And ok, some of the situations could only ever happen in a romance novel. But so what? That's what made it so enjoyable and entertaining to read and honestly I was 100% invested in this story and would happily recommend it to others.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
It's been ages since I last read a hockey romance and an M.E. Carter story. So, when I got the opportunity to read an early copy of Trial by Fire, I jumped at it and I'm so glad I did.
As this was such a fun and steamy read. That not only had a great storyline but characters who were relatable, likable and engaging too.
And I loved how not only Nick and Prestyn were introduced to each other. But how Prestyn first becomes friends with Nicks twin sister Delaney.
And ok, some of the situations could only ever happen in a romance novel. But so what? That's what made it so enjoyable and entertaining to read and honestly I was 100% invested in this story and would happily recommend it to others.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
July 25, 2022
M. E. Carter’s Florida Glaze Hockey series just keeps getting better and better. Playing with Fire, Under Fire, and now Trial by Fire continue to engage and entertain me with not only the hotness of the chemistry that Ms. Carter injects into her characters and stories, but a storyline that will grab you from the start and hold you until you let out that “OMG that was great!” sigh at the end. Highly recommend!
July 29, 2022
This book is about 2 people who are in the limelight and figure out how to go about handling their fame. When the oddest blind date set up in the world lets them meet, sparks fly. But insecurities take the best of them and may not let them stay together. Add a splash of fun characters and this is a great story that's hard to put down.
July 29, 2022
4.25 Stars!!
Having read Under Fire, i couldn't wait for more from this series!! As soon as i found out about this second book i started looking forward to it right away! I picked it up and got right back into the Florida Glaze Hockey word! I so enjoyed this story!
Prestyn and Nick's journey captured my attention right from the start! Prestyn is a hotel heiress and Nick is the goalie for the Florida Gaze hockey team. These two were brought into each other's life in quite the memorable fashion. As their attraction heats up, can they trust their hearts? Or is falling too much of a risk for them?
I was glad that i got to jump into both of their minds and get their real. I really liked the different way that Prestyn and Nick were brought together. There was more to both of them than meets the eye and they both showed such humanness throughout. They were relatable for me. Getting to see the chemistry burn bright between these two was so great! I couldn't wait to see how they'd deal with things when it came to their feelings and lives.
It was so awesome being back in the Florida Glaze world! With both books, i've been picturing everything so clearly and feeling so much, it has me so falling for this series. I enjoyed what the other characters brought to this installment as well!
With Trial By Fire, Ms.Carter has created a great and entertaining read with feels! It'll definitely keep you glued to your kindle. I can't wait to dive back into the Florida Glaze world with the third installment, Open Fire! 🧡🏒🔥
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
Having read Under Fire, i couldn't wait for more from this series!! As soon as i found out about this second book i started looking forward to it right away! I picked it up and got right back into the Florida Glaze Hockey word! I so enjoyed this story!
Prestyn and Nick's journey captured my attention right from the start! Prestyn is a hotel heiress and Nick is the goalie for the Florida Gaze hockey team. These two were brought into each other's life in quite the memorable fashion. As their attraction heats up, can they trust their hearts? Or is falling too much of a risk for them?
I was glad that i got to jump into both of their minds and get their real. I really liked the different way that Prestyn and Nick were brought together. There was more to both of them than meets the eye and they both showed such humanness throughout. They were relatable for me. Getting to see the chemistry burn bright between these two was so great! I couldn't wait to see how they'd deal with things when it came to their feelings and lives.
It was so awesome being back in the Florida Glaze world! With both books, i've been picturing everything so clearly and feeling so much, it has me so falling for this series. I enjoyed what the other characters brought to this installment as well!
With Trial By Fire, Ms.Carter has created a great and entertaining read with feels! It'll definitely keep you glued to your kindle. I can't wait to dive back into the Florida Glaze world with the third installment, Open Fire! 🧡🏒🔥
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
July 21, 2022
A misunderstanding has the lonely heiress Prestyn Caine being set up on a blind date with her new friend’s brother Nick. Professional hockey goalie, Nick Williams, wants nothing more than to keep out of the limelight. A traumatic past has made him distrustful of most people except his twin sister. Prestyn and Nick soon find they have more in common than first thought. While neither is looking for love or romance they decide that they may be able to help out one another in other ways.
Trial by Fire is friends with benefits, sports romance with plenty of spice. It is book two in author M.E. Carter’s Florida Glaze Hockey series. I have not yet read the first book but this one can be read as a stand-alone.
The MCs have excellent banter from the beginning. The banter is swoony and sometimes humorous. This book is open-door and while it is quite spicy that only adds to the overall storyline. (In some books it can be a distraction but not in this case.) It is a necessary and much appreciated part of the plot.
I did like that we got some background on some of the other players and side characters to help “world build” for future books in the series. It also gives depth to the overall storyline.
This is the first book that I have read from this author but it will not be the last. I look forward to reading the rest of this series and checking out some of her other work.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to NetGalley and Author Collective 20!
Trial by Fire is friends with benefits, sports romance with plenty of spice. It is book two in author M.E. Carter’s Florida Glaze Hockey series. I have not yet read the first book but this one can be read as a stand-alone.
The MCs have excellent banter from the beginning. The banter is swoony and sometimes humorous. This book is open-door and while it is quite spicy that only adds to the overall storyline. (In some books it can be a distraction but not in this case.) It is a necessary and much appreciated part of the plot.
I did like that we got some background on some of the other players and side characters to help “world build” for future books in the series. It also gives depth to the overall storyline.
This is the first book that I have read from this author but it will not be the last. I look forward to reading the rest of this series and checking out some of her other work.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to NetGalley and Author Collective 20!
July 29, 2022
Trial by fire
By: M. E. Carter
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Hockey romance oh my!
In another great hockey romance from authors M.E. Carter we get Prestyn and Nicks story. She’s a hotel heiress and her a Proffessional hockey player. What could possibly happen between the two of them. The author writing is flawless, and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV my personal favorite this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
Thanks Netgally for letting me read and review.📚💕
By: M. E. Carter
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Hockey romance oh my!
In another great hockey romance from authors M.E. Carter we get Prestyn and Nicks story. She’s a hotel heiress and her a Proffessional hockey player. What could possibly happen between the two of them. The author writing is flawless, and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV my personal favorite this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
Thanks Netgally for letting me read and review.📚💕
August 27, 2024
Trial by Fire is my first book by M.E. Carter and I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to read in roughly one sitting. Once I started, I enjoyed the characters so much that I needed to keep turning pages to know what happened next.
Nick the starting goalie for the local professional hockey team, the Florida Glaze, and Prestyn, or Pres, the hotel magnate's daughter working her way up in the company. Both characters were written as real people, not overly entitled rich people, so they were relatable. They were likable. They each had their questionable moments, but they were written to be human.
I had to suspend a little bit of disbelief with the events leading up to their blind date, but it worked out okay and showed great examples of women supporting women.
The chemistry between Nick and Pres was terrific and oh-so-hot. There were steamy scenes, but they weren't overly gratuitous by any means. When reading this I had a great taste of some of the other players who appear in previous or subsequent books in this series. While they were introduced to the reader in this book, I was in no way lacking because I hadn't yet read the previous book.
I would have liked more of the book to have revolved around the hockey itself. Sure, he was a hockey player, and away games and the need to practice were occasionally mentioned, but as a season ticket holder to my local NHL team, I'll always want more hockey. The book wasn't left wanting. I'm just reading it in the off-season, where I'm already going through hockey withdrawal!
All in all, it was a super fun and quick read. I plan to go back to read more of Carter's books.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Nick the starting goalie for the local professional hockey team, the Florida Glaze, and Prestyn, or Pres, the hotel magnate's daughter working her way up in the company. Both characters were written as real people, not overly entitled rich people, so they were relatable. They were likable. They each had their questionable moments, but they were written to be human.
I had to suspend a little bit of disbelief with the events leading up to their blind date, but it worked out okay and showed great examples of women supporting women.
The chemistry between Nick and Pres was terrific and oh-so-hot. There were steamy scenes, but they weren't overly gratuitous by any means. When reading this I had a great taste of some of the other players who appear in previous or subsequent books in this series. While they were introduced to the reader in this book, I was in no way lacking because I hadn't yet read the previous book.
I would have liked more of the book to have revolved around the hockey itself. Sure, he was a hockey player, and away games and the need to practice were occasionally mentioned, but as a season ticket holder to my local NHL team, I'll always want more hockey. The book wasn't left wanting. I'm just reading it in the off-season, where I'm already going through hockey withdrawal!
All in all, it was a super fun and quick read. I plan to go back to read more of Carter's books.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
July 26, 2022
I love a good sports themed romance especially where there’s hockey involved, and Carter's Florida Glaze series is shaping up to be one of the best I’ve read to date. Trial by Fire is the second book in the series, bringing readers Nick and Prestyn’s story.
A disastrous online dating situation sees Prestyn become friends with Delaney, Delaney has a twin brother called Nick, he’s a professional hockey player who needs a plus one for an up and coming gala, Delaney takes it upon herself to set him up with Prestyn. Both Nick and Prestyn aren’t looking to date, however sparks fly between them, there’s clearly a connection so they come to the agreement of a friends with benefits arrangement, strictly sex no feelings, a slight hiccup almost sees their arrangement end before it’s even had a chance to begin however they manage to work things out, but what happens when those pesky things called feelings get involved? Will the two of them decide to give the possibility of a relationship a go, or call it quits for good? Only way to find out, and that’s to read the book, you’ll be glad you did.
This was a fun, steamy storyline that has left me wanting more. I highly recommend it to fellow readers.
𝔸𝕟 𝕒𝕣𝕔 𝕠𝕗 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕓𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕨𝕒𝕤 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕚𝕤 𝕞𝕪 𝕙𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨.
A disastrous online dating situation sees Prestyn become friends with Delaney, Delaney has a twin brother called Nick, he’s a professional hockey player who needs a plus one for an up and coming gala, Delaney takes it upon herself to set him up with Prestyn. Both Nick and Prestyn aren’t looking to date, however sparks fly between them, there’s clearly a connection so they come to the agreement of a friends with benefits arrangement, strictly sex no feelings, a slight hiccup almost sees their arrangement end before it’s even had a chance to begin however they manage to work things out, but what happens when those pesky things called feelings get involved? Will the two of them decide to give the possibility of a relationship a go, or call it quits for good? Only way to find out, and that’s to read the book, you’ll be glad you did.
This was a fun, steamy storyline that has left me wanting more. I highly recommend it to fellow readers.
𝔸𝕟 𝕒𝕣𝕔 𝕠𝕗 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕓𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕨𝕒𝕤 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕚𝕤 𝕞𝕪 𝕙𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨.
July 23, 2022
Trial by Fire was an original hockey romance. Prestyn and Nick met during a set up by Nick's twin sister Delaney. They had an instant connection and both wished to avoid the paparazzi as Nick is a famous hockey player and Prestyn is a hotel heiress.
Nick and Prestyn had a good amount of chemistry and their scenes were so sweet. You could tell that they were falling for each other before they knew.
Nick has a lot of trauma after his dad made some horrible decisions. That trauma prevents him from wanting a relationship and working through that will be his biggest plotline.
Prestyn's plotline is what pulled me in. She works for her family business but works under her brother's best friend. Except that best friend is a terrible person, and her family does not see her worth. She is so strong, sweet and all around an amazing person and all I wanted was her family to see that too!
Nick and Prestyn had a good amount of chemistry and their scenes were so sweet. You could tell that they were falling for each other before they knew.
Nick has a lot of trauma after his dad made some horrible decisions. That trauma prevents him from wanting a relationship and working through that will be his biggest plotline.
Prestyn's plotline is what pulled me in. She works for her family business but works under her brother's best friend. Except that best friend is a terrible person, and her family does not see her worth. She is so strong, sweet and all around an amazing person and all I wanted was her family to see that too!
July 25, 2022
Thanks so much to M.E. Carter for this ARC of Trial by Fire! This is the first book of hers I’ve read and this 4.5 star lovers-to-friends (read to find out) read now has me wanting to go back and devour both the prequel and book 1 in the Florida Glaze series!
This book follows Prestyn Caine, a hotel heiress and business savvy employee at Caine Hotels, and Nick Williams, a professional hockey player for Florida’s team. After being set up on a blind date by Nick’s sister (who deserves her own happy ending), both realize that their individual financial independence and equal desire to lead private lives means that just maybe the two of them might be able to be something more. Watching their relationship develop was definitely a highlight of the book, as was Nick’s teammates shenanigans throughout the book (yoga? A potential reality-TV star in the making?).
This book was so good and I can’t wait to read more by this author!
This book follows Prestyn Caine, a hotel heiress and business savvy employee at Caine Hotels, and Nick Williams, a professional hockey player for Florida’s team. After being set up on a blind date by Nick’s sister (who deserves her own happy ending), both realize that their individual financial independence and equal desire to lead private lives means that just maybe the two of them might be able to be something more. Watching their relationship develop was definitely a highlight of the book, as was Nick’s teammates shenanigans throughout the book (yoga? A potential reality-TV star in the making?).
This book was so good and I can’t wait to read more by this author!
July 30, 2022
The Florida Glaze series just keeps getting better! M.E. Carter set a phenomenal bar with Lacy and The Florida Glaze series just keeps getting better! M.E. Carter set a phenomenal bar with Lacy and Tucker in Under Fire, and has outdone herself with the second book! Trial By Fire opens with one of the most captivating, funniest, most surprising first chapters I’ve read. I was completely hooked on page one. Prestyn and Nick are two of M.E.’s most endearing, well-rounded, lovable characters to date. Their instant chemistry is deliciously sizzling. Nick is a cinnamon roll pro ice hockey goalie uninterested in romantic entanglements. Prestyn is a brilliant businesswoman stuck under the glass ceiling of her family’s company. After a number of failed forays into online dating, she has resigned herself to the single life. When fate gets a bit of a push, Nick and Prestyn meet and sparks fly. This spicy, one-night stand sports romance is sweet, hilarious, and heartwarming. I adore the Florida Glaze team of hysterical goofballs. Nick’s sister, Delaney is amazing and on my permanent book bestie list! Nick is the hot, compassionate, brainy pro-athlete book boyfriend you have been waiting for! If you love a fun sports romance with dynamic, enchanting MCs and a clever, refreshing, spicy story, grab Trial By Fire now!
August 1, 2022
4.5 stars - Proof that everything happens for a reason! I must've been on quite the sports romance kick last week, and this was one of my favorites.
Once Prestyn is catfished by a married man, and forms a peculiar friendship with his soon-to-be ex-wife, I knew I wouldn't be able to put this book down until I reached the end. Her sole focus in life is proving to her brothers and father that she's just as capable of running the family business as they are.
Nick has been burned before and doesn't want to be in a relationship with anyone, but he'd do anything for his sister, including to agree on a blind date for a fundraiser. Little does he know where she met her...
Prestyn and Nick have the best chemistry and I love watching how they help each other become the best version of themselves, which is what love truly does.
The members of the hockey team are each diverse and have their own stories unfolding, capturing your attention and leaving you counting down until the next book releases.
I stayed up way past my bedtime to read this in one sitting, but it was worth the Starbucks trip the next day, and then some!
Once Prestyn is catfished by a married man, and forms a peculiar friendship with his soon-to-be ex-wife, I knew I wouldn't be able to put this book down until I reached the end. Her sole focus in life is proving to her brothers and father that she's just as capable of running the family business as they are.
Nick has been burned before and doesn't want to be in a relationship with anyone, but he'd do anything for his sister, including to agree on a blind date for a fundraiser. Little does he know where she met her...
Prestyn and Nick have the best chemistry and I love watching how they help each other become the best version of themselves, which is what love truly does.
The members of the hockey team are each diverse and have their own stories unfolding, capturing your attention and leaving you counting down until the next book releases.
I stayed up way past my bedtime to read this in one sitting, but it was worth the Starbucks trip the next day, and then some!
July 29, 2022
Trial By Fire (Florida Glaze #2) - 5 Stars
“I just wanna play hockey and enjoy a good book” Trial By Fire was my first enticement into the hockey romance genre, I had to have it and now I’m brazen for more!!
After an online date goes horribly off course Prestyn finds herself being set up on a blind date with one of the Florida Glaze Hockey team’s most eligible bachelors Nick and they agree on a no-strings attached secret sex pact, until keeping their dirty little secret becomes too hard to hide.
The banter between all the hockey players throughout this book (the yoga?!?) created great side characters and plot that brought connection and hilarity into the series. I found it to be super realistic that both Prestyn and Nick had their own unique baggage to work through and now I need to go read the rest of the series from book one!
Huge thank you to M.E. Carter and her publishing team for this amazing ARC and starting my obsession with hockey romance.
“I just wanna play hockey and enjoy a good book” Trial By Fire was my first enticement into the hockey romance genre, I had to have it and now I’m brazen for more!!
After an online date goes horribly off course Prestyn finds herself being set up on a blind date with one of the Florida Glaze Hockey team’s most eligible bachelors Nick and they agree on a no-strings attached secret sex pact, until keeping their dirty little secret becomes too hard to hide.
The banter between all the hockey players throughout this book (the yoga?!?) created great side characters and plot that brought connection and hilarity into the series. I found it to be super realistic that both Prestyn and Nick had their own unique baggage to work through and now I need to go read the rest of the series from book one!
Huge thank you to M.E. Carter and her publishing team for this amazing ARC and starting my obsession with hockey romance.
July 24, 2022
This book is another 5 star read by M. E. Carter! Nick and Prestyn met in such a creative and unexpected way that had me intrigued from the start. Both parties found themselves attracted to each other but had definite reservations about being in a relationship and drawing unwanted attention. Que the friends with benefits scenario, and the heat so steamy it'll fog your glasses! I thoroughly enjoyed this story and, I honestly didn't want it to end! The characters are well written and developed to be read as a stand-alone, but don't deprive yourself of the entire Florida Glaze Series!
August 1, 2022
Hotel Heiress, Prestyn Caine doesn’t have time for a relationship and just needs a man to scratch an itch but that isn’t around because of her money or fame. Star NHL goalie, Nick Williams might be the guy to scratch that itch since he has his own fame and money. They agree to a friends with benefits arrangement that suits them both until one of them catches feelings.
I loved Trial By Fire. The story isn’t your average friends to lovers trope, as they both are very clear what they want at the beginning and both are open and mature about communicating their needs. Prestyn is such a solid, strong protagonist, willing and able to stand up for her friends and herself as necessary. I love that the incident that tears them apart isn’t a stupid misunderstanding, but something real and hurtful, setting up a great reunion between the two.
I loved Trial By Fire. The story isn’t your average friends to lovers trope, as they both are very clear what they want at the beginning and both are open and mature about communicating their needs. Prestyn is such a solid, strong protagonist, willing and able to stand up for her friends and herself as necessary. I love that the incident that tears them apart isn’t a stupid misunderstanding, but something real and hurtful, setting up a great reunion between the two.
July 28, 2022
This is a fantastic book! ME Carter has delivered a hockey romance filled with amazing chemistry and mega passion.
Preston and Nick both have some baggage that they are trying to work through…they are both strong but also vulnerable. What starts out as a no-strings attached turns into a fun story filled with banter, laughs and lots of passion!
Preston and Nick both have some baggage that they are trying to work through…they are both strong but also vulnerable. What starts out as a no-strings attached turns into a fun story filled with banter, laughs and lots of passion!
August 2, 2022
This novel has a poetry spouting hockey player, a hotel heiress, secret meetings, a meet cute and and an obsession with pomegranates, what more could you ask for? This lovers to friends (yes you read that right) is full of sweet moments and steamy encounters and you won't believe the way Prestyn and Nick meet! Another great addition to the Florida Glaze line up.
February 3, 2023
This is a fun, steamy sports romance. But even more, it’s a wonderful coming of age story for Prestyn. I love that she is surrounded by supportive women, even some that you wouldn’t think would be in her corner, but still are. Yep, in this story it’s the men who are the problem. Even her love interest. Lol
But don’t get my wrong, Prestyn and Nick have amazing chemistry and this is a super steamy book. Nick definitely redeems himself!
Totally recommend this Friends with Benefits romance!
But don’t get my wrong, Prestyn and Nick have amazing chemistry and this is a super steamy book. Nick definitely redeems himself!
Totally recommend this Friends with Benefits romance!
July 15, 2022
I love this series and Nick and Prestyn were HOT HOT HOT.
What do you do when you are a hotel heiress and a hockey player who both hate the limelight? Well, you sneak around the hide what you're doing from all your friends and family.
These two were made from each other and as much as they tried to keep it simply friends with benefits type fun, you know the matters of the heart sneak their way in. I loved both Nick and Prestyn and how they were set up. Both had preconceived notions about each other and boy was it fun proving themselves wrong.
A fun and steamy book that I couldn't put down.
What do you do when you are a hotel heiress and a hockey player who both hate the limelight? Well, you sneak around the hide what you're doing from all your friends and family.
These two were made from each other and as much as they tried to keep it simply friends with benefits type fun, you know the matters of the heart sneak their way in. I loved both Nick and Prestyn and how they were set up. Both had preconceived notions about each other and boy was it fun proving themselves wrong.
A fun and steamy book that I couldn't put down.
July 23, 2022
Spicy and steamy throughout. I loved this book. Nick, the introvert hockey goalie plus Prestyn, the disrespected hotel heiress were FIRE. I loved Nick's sister setting them up. I loved all the fun hockey moments. I kinda want to go read it again right now.
Now I need to go back and read the 1st book in the series because I didn't realize this was book 2. ;)
Now I need to go back and read the 1st book in the series because I didn't realize this was book 2. ;)
August 5, 2022
Trial by Fire is Nick and Prestyn’s book for the Florida Glaze series and this one is sweet and hot!!! Nick and Preston are both high profile names but neither likes the spotlight. A blind first date leads to a friends with benefits situation that is heavy on sweet and steam. Through the ups and downs of their personal lives and “relationship” these two are still drawn together. Loved this one!!!
July 26, 2022
Can't wait to read!
July 21, 2022
Full review to come soon!
August 2, 2022
Trial By Fire is book two in the Florida Glaze Hockey series by M.E. Carter. Nick Williams, is the quiet, introverted goalie so I was interested in seeing who the author would find for him. This is a change of pace after all the fun Tucker provided in the first book, but don’t worry, there is still plenty of banter and hilarious antics amongst the team during this romance. This is about a couple who both live their lives in the limelight. Nick is a professional ice hockey player and Prestyn is a hotel heiress. It is also about them not realising they have found ‘the one’ and when feelings start to enter their friendship, they are both scared of what it all means.
Nick is such an endearing character, so sweet and kind. He proves not all professional athletes are players. He likes his privacy, reading poetry and snuggling !! He uses yoga to combat the stress of dealing with the media and I felt sorry for him when his anxiety kicked in over interviews.
Prestyn Caine’s family own Caine Resorts and Conference Centres. She is working her way up at one of their hotels but currently has the most obnoxious boss to deal with. She is determined to prove she deserves a higher position and be taken seriously by all the men in her family.
Nick’s twin sister Delaney sets the couple up for a blind date. The twist behind his sister’s matchmaking is clever because she had met Prestyn in the most unusual circumstances but just knew she’d be great for him. Nick and Prestyn are anti-relationships because they are both very wary of people and don't trust anyone. They never know if a person wants them for themselves or what they can get from them.
What starts as a blind date becomes a no-strings relationship then slowly develops into a friendship as they get on so well. They find it refreshing being with each other as neither like the spotlight but know it’s their life and have to deal with it. He constantly surprises her with how thoughtful and understanding he is. Their connection is hot and I enjoyed the slow realisation that it was becoming so much more. When things come to a head and he tries to protect her, it all goes downhill rapidly. I admired Prestyn taking a stand and fighting for what she thought was right and what she wanted. I found myself cheering for her when she decided she had had enough of the men in her life behaving badly. Nick has to accept that the past has affected him more than he thought, fear was controlling his decisions and he has to face his insecurities. Delaney supports him but I thought it was funny that it turns out to be Tucker who pushes him in the right direction.
The author keeps us up to date with everything happening to the other players which provides a lot of entertainment throughout the book. In the epilogue she teases us with Tiger and Delaney so I was pleasantly surprised when I read the bonus epilogue and found out Open Fire #3 - would be about Becker and Sloan.
Nick is such an endearing character, so sweet and kind. He proves not all professional athletes are players. He likes his privacy, reading poetry and snuggling !! He uses yoga to combat the stress of dealing with the media and I felt sorry for him when his anxiety kicked in over interviews.
Prestyn Caine’s family own Caine Resorts and Conference Centres. She is working her way up at one of their hotels but currently has the most obnoxious boss to deal with. She is determined to prove she deserves a higher position and be taken seriously by all the men in her family.
Nick’s twin sister Delaney sets the couple up for a blind date. The twist behind his sister’s matchmaking is clever because she had met Prestyn in the most unusual circumstances but just knew she’d be great for him. Nick and Prestyn are anti-relationships because they are both very wary of people and don't trust anyone. They never know if a person wants them for themselves or what they can get from them.
What starts as a blind date becomes a no-strings relationship then slowly develops into a friendship as they get on so well. They find it refreshing being with each other as neither like the spotlight but know it’s their life and have to deal with it. He constantly surprises her with how thoughtful and understanding he is. Their connection is hot and I enjoyed the slow realisation that it was becoming so much more. When things come to a head and he tries to protect her, it all goes downhill rapidly. I admired Prestyn taking a stand and fighting for what she thought was right and what she wanted. I found myself cheering for her when she decided she had had enough of the men in her life behaving badly. Nick has to accept that the past has affected him more than he thought, fear was controlling his decisions and he has to face his insecurities. Delaney supports him but I thought it was funny that it turns out to be Tucker who pushes him in the right direction.
The author keeps us up to date with everything happening to the other players which provides a lot of entertainment throughout the book. In the epilogue she teases us with Tiger and Delaney so I was pleasantly surprised when I read the bonus epilogue and found out Open Fire #3 - would be about Becker and Sloan.
July 27, 2022
🥅 ARC REVIEW 🥅
Review: 5/5 ⭐️
Steam: 3.5/5 🔥
#trialbyfire is book two in the #floridaglazeseries by @authormecarter
Nick is one of the hottest hockey goalies on and off the ice. He’s been named one of the most eligible bachelors, had offers for modeling contracts and is fire between the pipes in a game. But deep down he’s a big nerd who would rather set himself on fire than deal with the media. His twin sister finds him a date for a gala in an extremely unconventional way. They hit it off and have more in common than they think. But Nick’s dead set on no relationships, so his no strings attached sex with Prestyn is perfect. Until he realizes that no matter what, he can’t escape the limelight. Is she worth the media frenzy or is he only willing to deal with what he has to for his career?
Prestyn has had some bad luck with people who she thinks are friends and potential dates. She’s a hotel heiresses who wants privacy and a relatively normal life. Being stood up on a date turns out to change so much in her life. Agreeing to a blind date she discovers that Nick isn’t your typical Jock. The more time they spend together, in and out of bed the more she realizes she could totally fall for him. Buy it’s not what they agreed on. She’s used to being set aside from her family, she’s not going to allow that in any other kind of relationship.
Holy smokes this book. It had everything you want, and didn’t know you needed. Sports, some angst, hot and funny athletes, sassy girls, and a lot of steam. Nick is amazing. He might be a dope at times, but I think he’s just totally clueless about his feelings. That nerdy goalkeeper kept is spicy! Pres was determined to prove herself and some of the passive agression she had with her boss made me proud. I absolutely loved this book. The side characters are amazing, and the banter is exactly what we need. Love this series and can’t wait for more!
Review: 5/5 ⭐️
Steam: 3.5/5 🔥
#trialbyfire is book two in the #floridaglazeseries by @authormecarter
Nick is one of the hottest hockey goalies on and off the ice. He’s been named one of the most eligible bachelors, had offers for modeling contracts and is fire between the pipes in a game. But deep down he’s a big nerd who would rather set himself on fire than deal with the media. His twin sister finds him a date for a gala in an extremely unconventional way. They hit it off and have more in common than they think. But Nick’s dead set on no relationships, so his no strings attached sex with Prestyn is perfect. Until he realizes that no matter what, he can’t escape the limelight. Is she worth the media frenzy or is he only willing to deal with what he has to for his career?
Prestyn has had some bad luck with people who she thinks are friends and potential dates. She’s a hotel heiresses who wants privacy and a relatively normal life. Being stood up on a date turns out to change so much in her life. Agreeing to a blind date she discovers that Nick isn’t your typical Jock. The more time they spend together, in and out of bed the more she realizes she could totally fall for him. Buy it’s not what they agreed on. She’s used to being set aside from her family, she’s not going to allow that in any other kind of relationship.
Holy smokes this book. It had everything you want, and didn’t know you needed. Sports, some angst, hot and funny athletes, sassy girls, and a lot of steam. Nick is amazing. He might be a dope at times, but I think he’s just totally clueless about his feelings. That nerdy goalkeeper kept is spicy! Pres was determined to prove herself and some of the passive agression she had with her boss made me proud. I absolutely loved this book. The side characters are amazing, and the banter is exactly what we need. Love this series and can’t wait for more!
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