I never expected to fall for a puckboy. I certainly never expected to fall for Axel Finnegan, star of the Rush. But the hockey player charmed his way into my life, made himself indispensable, and now I was all in for my filthy puckboy. Except…my life had other plans. My ex was back, my parents were a freaking nightmare, and Axel’s career was taking off, bringing with it a level of fans and puck bunnies that were increasingly uncomfortable for my small-town heart. But then it wasn’t just my heart that was being threatened. It was my home, my livelihood, my… Life.
USA Today bestselling author, Elise Faber, loves chocolate, Star Wars, and hockey (the order depending on the day and how well her team—the Sharks!—are playing). She and her husband also play as much hockey as they can squeeze into their schedules, so much so that their typical date night is spent on the ice. Elise changes her hair color more often than some people change their socks, loves sparkly things, and is the mom to two exuberant boys. She lives in Northern California. Connect with her in her Facebook group, the Fabinators or email her at elise@elisefaber.com.
5 Star review of Filthy Puckboy (Rush Hockey Trilogy #2) by Elise Faber This book picks up where the first book in the trilogy ended so if you haven't read book one, then STOP as this series needs to be read in order. In Filthy Puckboy we get the continuing story of Axel and Bailey and their struggle to make their relationship work. Bailey is such a strong, determined woman working continuously to restore her family ranch; I really admired her. Not only do they have to contend with puck bunnies, there are a number of miss communications that cause tension within their relationship. Their chemistry continues to sizzles but Bailey has to contend with not only her parents but her ex who has returned and I really wanted to smack them across the back of the head. I thought I knew where the story was headed but Ms. Faber managed to surprise me. Cannot wait for the final book in the trilogy.
This is a little bit difference for Elise Faber. She dives into the world of trilogy writing with this Rush Hockey series. We get 3 books… Big Puck Energy, Filthy Puck Boy, and So Pucking Over It featuring Axel and Bailey. These two don’t have the best meeting, but move past their animosity and issues in an organic and natural way. Axel is in the minor leagues of hockey, and the Rush are local to Bailey’s home town. These players have been creating havoc on the town, and Axel has been on of the ring leaders. This series shows the growth of Axel as a person and a player. Bailey herself is a strong and independent woman who knows her worth… has grown past the traumas of her past.
I only gave this series 3.5 stars because I felt as though there was almost too much worked into this series. As you read it, the issues work and make sense, but at the same time there are a couple storylines that I feel could have been left out. There is a lot packed in, but I don’t want to give anything away because it will take away from the story as a whole.
This is a good read, and mixes the suspense elements as some of Elise’s other series as well as her Gold hockey series. Elise Faber always creates depth filled characters that are flawed, but its what they learn from those flaws that make these characters so compelling.
POV: Dual 1st Person PoP: 33% in book one Tropes: Hockey; Enemies to Lovers; Small Town; Reformed Playboy Series: Rush Hockey Type of Series: Trilogy… Must read in order Rate: 3.5/5 Stars Release Date: July 19, 2022; September 13, 2022; November 1, 2022
As this is book 2 in the trilogy some questions from the first book have been answered but by the end of this story there is a fresh new batch that have been thrown up like confetti that has me desperate to get my hands on book 3 sooner rather than later. What I liked most about this book was how Axel has evolved as a character. It seems that by the end of each chapter he becomes even more incredible and more than worthy of Bailey’s love. But having said that to me Bailey is still hands down my favorite character in this trilogy. Right from book 1 I have been carrying a full on girl crush and that doesn’t seem like that will ever end. She is truly one of the best heroines I have ever read. The way she stood up for herself in this book had me basically standing up and applauding her - it was that good. Obviously being book 2 of 3 it does obviously end in a cliffhanger, I have my own take on what I think has actually happened and only time will tell if I am anywhere near correct. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book
If you're looking for a deep novel that deals with serious societal issues, this is not the book you're looking for. With these books, I expected something other than the super sweet story than I am getting. These two are very broken, and have found each other and taking a chance is such a scary thing for them, but they are doing it anyway. Not to say that there aren't serious themes in these, as there is assault and domestic abuse/child abuse referenced, but it does not delve deep into these issues, but they are used more as an explanation as to why these two are so relationship shy. Waiting for the third installment to come out next month.
I could do without so many one sentence paragraphs, though. The author definitely over uses them. I do like the way that it feels a bit like a serialized story, each chapter as an episode. With the author's writing style, I like the definite ending and beginning of each chapter.
This is the 2nd book in this amazing trilogy, and I cannot wait to read the 3rd and final novel. Axel and Bailey’s journey continues and this story picks straight up from where #1 ended. These two have their struggles to content with in making their relationship work, despite all the curveballs thrown into their path. Bailey is so strong and courageous, and she works hard to restore her family’s ranch, but she has a lot on her plate courtesy of her parents and an ex who has returned. This is a well written story which has family, friendships, tension, twist, miscommunication, undeniable chemistry, turmoil, and love, which leads to a riveting and addictive page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
I just love how this story is progressing. Axel and Bailey are still learning about their new love. We're left with a mess in book one and I was so glad to see how they handled it. It's so refreshing to see how a conflict is supposed to be resolved and that by taking and listening what easc one has to say.
I loved how passionate they were together. Or despite being 4 hours apart they made it work. But what I mostly loved about this book is how they have each other's back and would do just about anything to keep them safe.
Book 2 ended in the worst possible way for Bailey and I'm nervous how and what will happen as we continue down the road to the HEA for these two.
Axel and Bailey's story continues, so if you haven't yet go read book one, Big Puck Energy. I'm really enjoying this couple's story. The blend of emotions, drama, heart, twists, humor and tension is sharp and gripping. The struggles these two are facing are giving me major feels and I can't wait to see how things end in book three! This is my elective, candid review.
Axel and Bailey are finally trying to make things work by talking through when they have a problem. Bailey is trying hard not to let her past drown her future but trust comes hard to her. Axel is also struggling a little but knows Bailey is his future and is finding out he can trust her. When the past comes back, they turn to each other for support rather than pull apart. I loved this next book as the characters are sweet but also funny. The twists their relationship encounters made for a thrilling read, having you wonder what comes next. The Good Hockey teams appearance was also a lovely touch. Can't wait for th next book because - cliffhanger!!! Thanks Elise in glad I waited for all the books before I binged!
Filthy Puckboy is book two in Ms. Faber's Ruch Hockey Trilogy and it is an emotional one. This book picks up where Big Puck Energy left off and that was seeing Bailey driving off in tears after what she just saw but what she arrived at was much worse. She has been haunted by what has happened to her in the past and is determined to become a stronger person and one that does not need a man to care for her. When Axel wants to treat her like a queen and take care of her and all her troubles she fights him. Will he see that she is not the woman that she was when they met? The two of them spend time together helping and healing one another. Bailey has to deal with her parents and her abusive ex again but this time she is not the woman that they thought she was and part of that is due to the support she received from her aunt Billie and the man that she loves Axel. Can they get through the twists and turns that life throws at them this time? Will they ever get their HEA and be out of danger?
Being book two in a trilogy, this book ended with a bigger cliffhanger than the first one. I was sitting on the edge of my seat and holding my breath at the ending. I was hoping that Ms. Faber would give us just a bit more but nope I need to wait for book three. I highly recommend picking up the first two books and get ready to binge them as you will not want to put them down.
Filthy Puckboy is the second book in the Rush Hockey series, but I suggest reading them in order. Bailey and Axel are trying their hardest to make their relationship stick, but are too many things stacked against them? Can they both truly open up their hearts to love?
Oh my goodness, this book was just so good! You seriously can’t help but cheer for Bailey and Axel right from the very beginning, knowing how hard they’ve both worked to find self acceptance, to opening up to trusting one another, and even feeling that oh so scary emotion: love. I am addicted to this couple! Bailey is facing her demons through her parents and abusive ex, but she’s learning quickly that she is not alone and doesn’t have to handle difficulties by herself. Axel is honestly the sweetest, filthiest, hockey playing book boyfriend I think I’ve ever met. I completely adore him, love how quickly he puts Bailey first, even while he’s in the process of living his dreams. They are simply dynamite together, so passionate, but they’re also so fragile when it comes to how new they both are to relationships and what that means for their future. This book, though, is more than just about their relationship. There’s drama and potential danger and the Gold members and… that ending! Eek! I need the next book! So, so good!!
I am loving this trilogy and the relationship between Bailey and Alex. They have a special bond, explosive chemistry, but it is their love for each other that keeps them together. Filthy Puckboy, book two in the Rush Hockey Trilogy pick up right where book one left off and just like book one, Alex and Bailey still have some obstacles to overcome, but for Bailey she has people coming after her from all sides and through it all Alex is by her side offering his support and more importantly, his love. It is that love and belief in her that is fueling her strength to stand up to those wronging her and his love that is giving her the confidence to look towards her future and follow her dreams. Alex, finally has the opportunity to live his life’s dream of playing hockey in the NHL but he is realizing that it doesn’t mean anything if he can’t have Bailey by his side. However, when she is threatened, he will do what he needs to to keep her safe even as he deals with a crazy stalker in his midst. This second book in the trilogy also leaves us hanging at the end wondering what is coming next for these two characters and the small town of Rivers Bend. I for one can’t wait to see how it all plays out.
Where Big Puck Energy introduced us to Axel, Bailey, Billie Rose and a host of other entertaining supporting characters, in Filthy Puckboy, things get more complicated and emotions become even more intense!
There’s Bailey’s parents (who are a nightmare) and her ex (who is horrible for so many reasons), plus Axel has moved up to the Gold’s hockey team and with his career taking off, so does the female attention. It is a lot for Bailey to handle.
But! She has Axel, her aunt, Billie Rose, mayor of their little town River’s Bend, Axel’s former hockey team (the Rush) friends, plus new friends she’s made with the WAG’s (wives and girlfriends) of the Gold’s team. And Axel really is a sweetheart here, trying to make life easier for Bailey and showing her how much he cares!
While Axel is psyched to be called up to the Gold hockey team, he has his own issues to deal with, which Bailey has, by far, helped him to put into perspective. But he’s away from Rivers’s Bend and Bailey, which is hard for both of them.
As we learn more about what haunts them for their pasts, complications arise. Are they strong enough to weather the storm?
Thoroughly enjoyable story! Can’t wait for the conclusion in So Pucking Over It!
Wow! The obstacles Axel and Bailey go through in this book are never ending. Just when you think they can be happy, something else happens that has the potential to tear them apart.
Axel is all in and a protector to the extreme. When he finds out exactly what Bailey’s ex did to her he sees red, but he has to navigate his career with protecting her. He also has to learn that he can’t do everything for her, that she is capable of taking care of herself.
Bailey is very independent and struggles with accepting help. She is also all in, which scares her because of her last relationship. Her parents and ex are back and causing trouble, will they succeed in taking what she has built?
I enjoyed seeing the growth of both characters and how their relationship grew. Axel truly has a heart of gold, he just doesn’t let anyone see it. I hope Billie and his teammate get books, there seems to be something there. The cliffhanger has me waiting (impatiently) and wishing it was November so I can see what happens next.
I highly recommend this book, as well as the first book in the series. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
"As this is book 2 in the trilogy some questions from the first book have been answered but by the end of this story there is a fresh new batch that have been thrown up like confetti that has me desperate to get my hands on book 3 sooner rather than later. What I liked most about this book was how Axel has evolved as a character. It seems that by the end of each chapter he becomes even more incredible and more than worthy of Bailey’s love. But having said that to me Bailey is still hands down my favorite character in this trilogy. Right from book 1 I have been carrying a full on girl crush and that doesn’t seem like that will ever end. She is truly one of the best heroines I have ever read. The way she stood up for herself in this book had me basically standing up and applauding her - it was that good. Obviously being book 2 of 3 it does obviously end in a cliffhanger, I have my own take on what I think has actually happened and only time will tell if I am anywhere near correct. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book"
Book two of the trilogy and the story picks up immediately where book one stopped. Bailey's ex-husband and parents are at the ranch and Bailey knows that they want something, they wouldn't show up just because! Axel and Bailey's life together is evolving and they are settling into as good of a routine as possible when they are so far apart and traveling, but both know that they love each other and are there for each other. I fall in love with Axel's character a little more with each passing chapter as he does more and more thoughtful things for Bailey and strives to keep her safe both from her ex and his crazy stalker. As the Gold get closer and closer to winning the Stanley Cup, Axel's influence on the team increases so when he and Bailey have a serious falling out, Axel's performance slips and Bailey realizes she has to fix the rift before it affects the whole team. And just as the team are on the cusp of victory, disaster strikes potentially ruining everything Axel and Bailey live for. Was this an accident or the result of sabotage?
This is book two in a trilogy that must be read in order. When we left Bailey and Axel there were some misunderstandings and possible complications between them. I was so happy to see that the way I thought these two would be divided was not the case. Axel and Bailey grow a lot as a couple and as individuals in this book. It can be really hard to read several books with the same characters and not slump somewhere. I was pleasantly surprised how this book used the foundation of book one and grew the anticipation of book three in very solid ways. Axel and Bailey find their place with each other in this book but also recognize that just being in love does not make things easy. “Love wasn’t a smooth road without any bumps. There were potholes and divergence and rumble strips and peeling paint.” (Chapter 42, Axel). They confront a lot of things that try to jeopardize their happiness, but they prevail. However, there are a lot of loose ends and a major cliffhanger that leaves the reader hungry for book 3.
Elise Faber scores with FILTHY PUCKBOY (Rush Hockey Trilogy #2). FILTHY PUCKBOY takes place where book one, BIG PUCK ENERGY, left off. Bailey comes home to her waiting parents and ex, Colt; none of whom she wants in her life. They were abusive in different ways, and they want to take advantage of her. Simultaneously, Axel Finnegan, is now playing for the Gold. He is starting to become recognized/appreciated by fans, not all of them stable.
Bailey and Alex face compelling challenges in this story. They live four hours apart and learn to deal with a long-distance relationship. Bailey is a strong heroine who had a difficult past. Alex is protective of Bailey and also has a subpar parent. Both characters are likeable. They have fantastic chemistry.
FILTHY PUCKBOY has a cliff hanger ending. I am anxiously awaiting the last book in the trilogy. I do recommend reading book one before this story. Fans of Elise Faber will love this series. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
Book two in the Rush Hockey Trilogy and in this book we see Beck and Axel working out the issues of a long distance relationship which in turn leads to miss communications and misunderstandings. Beck is also dealing with the day to day running of the ranch and the debts that seem to be mounting as each day goes by. Beck is determined to find her own way without putting any more pressure on Axel who should be focused on his hockey career but just when you think these two have it all worked out Ms Faber drops another bombshell and once again their life’s do a 360 degree turnaround. This book has all the feels you wants a great read, it’s full of love and passion but it also has a few twist and turns as well bumps in the road that this couple need to negotiate. I was captivated from the first page and there was no putting down until the final word had been read which has left me desperate for the f8nal boom in this fantastic trilogy.
This book continues the story of Axel and Bailey and where it ended in book 1. Bailey has come back home after finding a naked woman in Axel's room and is met by her parents and ex. Her mother thinks Bailey will just do whatever she wants her to do which includes getting back with her ex that beat her. Lucky Axel shows up and is having none of it and sends them away. Bailey has been haunted by what her ex has done to her and Axel wants to protect and keep her safe even though he is 4 hours away from her. Axel wants to take care of her and fix all her problems which Bailey wants to handle herself and needs to do it. They have fallen in love with each other and are doing everything they can to make it work long distance. And just when you think things have settled down for them it hits the fan! The ending will have you on the edge waiting to see what happens in book 3. Buckle up! 5 stars
Filthy Puckboy, book two in the Rush Hockey Trilogy follows the events of book one, with Bailey Donovan and Axel Finnegan trying to work out their new relationship. With Axel finally getting a shot at playing for the NHL, and Bailey back home in River’s Bend, the struggles are real. Not only is Bailey dealing with Axel’s “puck bunnies”, the miscommunication between the pair is also weighing on their new relationship. When Bailey’s parents return, and then an abusive ex-husband suddenly makes an appearance in her life, Bailey begins to struggle with becoming stronger and more determined and not the weak woman she was in the past. Will Axel and Bailey be able to put aside everything else and work to stay together? Or will outside forces keep them apart? Being book 2 of 3 it does end on another cliffhanger, but I cannot wait for the final book in the trilogy to see what happens with this couple.
"Filthy Puckboy" by Elise Faber, book #2 of the Rush Hockey Trilogy, continues the story of professional hockey player Axel Finnegan and rancher Bailey Donovan. It is not a standalone, but rather should be read after the first book of the series, "Big Puck Energy."
This story picks up right where the last book left off, with Bailey's parents and abusive ex-husband returning to River's Bend bent on profiting from Bailey's hard work in turning the ranch around. Even while he's away playing for the Gold, Axel's not going to let anyone take advantage of his girl, though Bailey's convinced she can take care of herself. I loved the way they communicated and worked through their problems together, even if their timing wasn't always the best, and when they were together they were just as cute (and steamy) as ever.
As with the last book, the only thing I didn't like about this story was the cliffhanger ending, which IMO was so much worse than the cliffhanger at the end of book #1. I can't wait for book #3 to find out what happens next! In the meantime, I highly recommend "Filthy Puckboy" for all fans of contemporary/sports romance.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
Filthy Puckboy is a fabulous read. This is book 2 in the trilogy and must be read in order. I loved this one so much. Axel and Bailey are still finding their footing as they grow their relationship. A few curve balls are thrown along the way that make you want to root for them even more. Axel is finally getting his dream of the pros and getting to know the Gold team. Bailey is getting back on her feet and finding she can do things on her own. I love how Axel is always willing to go that little bit of an extra mile for Bailey to have the help and protection she needs. This relationship is just getting stronger and even the few bumps along the way they seem to conquer everything. The cliffhanger will have you needing the next book but it is so worth it. I cannot wait to find out what happens with Axel and Bailey in the next Rush Hockey book.
I am so in love with Axel and Bailey. These two characters have me rooting for them. I so did want to hit Axel over the head with my Kindle a few times when he doesn’t see what he’s got. I liked how Elise had this story intertwine with the latest in her Breaker’s series. Also, you get all the family feeling that makes the Breaker’s so fun. Brit imparts some real wisdom that had me laughing 😂 so hard. I wish Elise will stop dropping hints that Brit is retiring. Say it isn’t so.
Short synopsis Everything seems to be going better, they are working their relationship and start to use the ‘L’ word. But hovering in the background is Bailey’s ex and parents. Not to mention the weird chick Candi. Bailey rises to the occasion to deal with Cole. But Candi is still on the loose. Anticipating how this all unfolds.
This book had me on tenterhooks I mean it's the second book about Bailey and Axel and has to be read in order, with the last cliffhanger I was just like NO and the author did it again please let November get here like now.
Now for what book two is about Bailey has run back to her ranch only realizing she may have made a major mistake with Axel and its only going to get worse now that her deadbeat parents and a manipulative abusive ex show up they want everything she's worked for her ranch. Axel is furious he loves Bailey even though there just getting started he wants to murder her ex but he's conflicted his career for the gold is finally happening but hill fight for Bailey even if she thinks she can deal with her problems alone and Axel's creep stalker dosen't appear to be going away anytime soon and when everything comes to ahead Axel's career and Bailey's problems will cause a blow-up that I hated that dreaded cliffhanger.
I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book and this is my honest review. I also own a personal copy of this book.
From the drama, to the steam, to the stalker like situations, to the miscommunications, to the alpha-protective mode, to that ending!
THAT ENDING!
In my head I had a different scenario built up, so when this happened? I was so not ready. Can I have So Pucking Over It: Ruck Hockey Trilogy Book 3 now please? PLEASE?!? I need to know how this story wraps up, and how Bailey and Axel get their HEA.
Oh and there better be a story with Billie Rose in the works!
Axel has turned into a romantic and generous boyfriend. He is so amazing in almost everything he does with and for Bailey.
Everything that seemed to be is ashes at the end of the first book in the series was worked out and questions were answered. Axel was creative and determined in protecting Bailey and doing what he could to pamper her. The puck boy has become quite the hero.
Book 2 of the trilogy also ends on a cliffhanger and this time the entire town of River Bend is at risk along with Bailey, her farm and all her furry family (Data, Picard and Spock).
I am eager for Book 3 to see what fabulous conclusion Elise will come up with for us!
I received a free ARC from the author and Elle Woods PR; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
Bailey is trying to balance managing her family’s ranch and the challenges of a relationship with a hockey player especially when they are living in different places. The situation only becomes more difficult between the family drama and the re-emergence of someone from her past.
There is nothing that Axel wouldn’t do to make things easier for Bailey, but he soon realizes that means supporting her as she faces all the challenges that life is throwing at them rather than trying to protect her from them.
The evolution of the characters only make them more captivating as they fight for their love and their relationship and the cliffhanger only leaves us wanting more.
This is book 2 in the trilogy and again ends with a cliff hanger… just so you all know. I was looking forward to this books as I wanted to see how Bailey and Axels story go on. I love how there love grows and with that both getting rid of there insecurities and fears piece by piece. They are struggling but work on every issue that’s thrown there way together. Axel is a great character and loves Bailey more each chapter. 8 was sue I figures out what’s going to happen next to them but well I was wrong ;-). I don’t like cliffhangers but I have to suck it up and wait desperately for book three. And let’s not forget that we see a lot of the gold players in this book which I really really like.
I am really enjoying watching Bailey and Axel grow as a couple. They both have issues but they are leaning on and taking care of each other. In this one it is one thing after another happening, can't seem to catch a break. The ending is still a cliffhanger, but this story is so good that I'm not minding, just impatient for the next. The characters are great in this, some from other books I've read and some new. I can't wait to read the next and see what happens, great story so far!!!!
Bailey arrives home, after driving to surprise Axel, but she was surprised because Candi was in his room, she didn't wait to see him. He found out what happened and drove back to see her, finding her abusive ex, Colt, and her parents there too. Bailey appreciated his support and they, with Billie Rose's help, got rid of them. But have they gone for good or are they hiding in the wings? This is the second book of the trilogy. Axel and Bailey have sorted out their relationship. The team are playing well. Candi is still around though.