Van

Cold Fury Hockey #9

by Sawyer Bennett

Score one for the Carolina Cold Fury hockey team as a stone-cold badass melts for a woman who makes his blood run hot.

As one of the league’s toughest enforcers, Van Turner is ruthless on the ice. He plays hard because it’s the only way to channel the rage boiling inside, and a reputation as an A-hole is better than everyone knowing the truth. Van has spent his entire life running from a secret that’s kept him from getting involved in relationships—or accepting lucrative deals with East Coast teams. Then the Carolina Cold Fury makes him an offer he can’t refuse . . . and Van meets a woman he can’t resist.

Simone Fournier is the stubborn one in her family—and that’s saying something, considering her brothers are two of the Cold Fury’s biggest stars. Simone gets what she wants, and what she wants is Van. Still, there’s a part of him Simone can’t reach, no matter how hard she tries. In private, he’s all fire and passion. In public, he freezes her out. Van may want to push her away, but Simone won’t let him go that easily. Because this time, she’s playing for keeps.

The Carolina Cold Fury series from New York Times bestselling author Sawyer Bennett can be read together or
ALEX
GARRETT
ZACK
RYKER
HAWKE
MAX
ROMAN
LUCAS
VAN

Genres: Sports, Romance, Sports Romance, Hockey, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Audiobook

224 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 28, 2017

About the author

New 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).

Reviews

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars!!!

“I know you, Van Turner,” I whisper to him. “And I think you’re mighty fine.”

Van is the 9th book in Sawyer Bennett’s Cold Fury series and it’s by far my favorite so far! Honestly, I didn’t think I would love it as much as I did. It follows the same time-line as Lucas and I was worried it would be a little repetitive at times, but I was wrong. This story was fantastic and Van and Simone were epic characters!

Simone Fournier is the youngest of the Fournier clan. As her life has turned a little crazy, she's come to stay with her brothers. When she stays with Lucas, she also stays with Van, as he’s his roommate. Simone has it bad for Van. She is instantly attracted to him and relentless with her pursuit. I’m serious here- this girl had me laughing so loud with her attempts to get with Van… I couldn't stop cracking up!

Leaning into Van slightly, I whisper, “I’ll give you some space for now. But don’t be surprised if I crawl into your bed while you’re sleeping.” “I’ll make sure to lock the door,” he growls, and then turns and walks out of his room. I let my laugh follow him all the way out, snickering when the front door slams shut behind him. He and I both know there aren’t any locks on the bedroom doors.


Van has a past that he’s ashamed of, even though its no fault of his own. Due to that past, he doesn't let anyone get too close. Van’s a broken man and Simone is the only one who can seem to get in there and break down his barriers. I adored this couple so much! They were so great together!

Van is one of those books that has it all! It’s steamy, funny, and emotional. I couldn't get enough of Van Turner and Simone Fournier. ‘Shiny’ was the best thing ever! I loved this book so much and I can’t wait for more in this series!

“Van?” I whisper. “Am I still shiny?” He chuckles, pulls me in tighter, and squeezes the breath out of me. “Yes, Simone. So fucking shiny you make everything else in the world seem a little dull by comparison.”

[Alex ♈ · Rating 1 out of 5]

It was very probably my last book in this series and very likely my last one by this author, well, unless this author would start to like and respect her heroines again…

SB was my one-click author and I never gave up on her, even after some books I didn’t like, but after this one, I‘m out for good…

It’s a shame and It makes me sad, because this author definitely has a writing talent;
but I won’t spend my money on the books, which degrade my female gender.

Next spoiler has some spoilers (so please be warned) and not very pretty, even harsh, thoughts about this book
-> my thoughts = my opinion!

If you want to read the book, please don’t click it.

The book was safe. As I understood he wasn’t with any OW after he met the h and there were no scenes with OP.


I like and always support sexually experienced and open women. Hell yeah! I loathe slut-shaming and never trash non-virginal female characters. My hate of double standards is also well known.
I’m not a prude and have zero problems with casual sex.
Yes, it’s me, the woman of the 21st century ;-)

But the female protagonist in this book (FP for later references, coz I can’t bring myself to call her a heroine) was nothing I mentioned above.

Excuse my French, but she was weak and pathetic (P.A.T.H.E.T.I.C.); shameless and opposite of smart; she had zero self-respect, zero dignity, zero personality.

She threw herself on the male protagonist (MP), offered herself as a cheap sex-toy, which could be used in any way – literally. She sold herself for less than cheap. She behaved like a cheap wh*** (OMG, I can’t believe I wrote it, I’m so sorry, I hate to bash women *cry*).
She was one of the worst FPs I ever read – TSTL is not strong enough.

I won’t dare to quote her, coz it was so embarrassing and degrading, it was over my limit of acceptance.
Pathetic. More than pathetic.
She let him treat her like a disposable cheap sex-toy.
Embarrassing, humiliating.
I have no words.

It’s probably the only book I can’t find any reason to shame the MP for treating her bad, she asked for it – she literally begged to be treated mean.

I didn’t like the MP, he was a jerk and a§§hole, but I felt sorry for him. His family situation was not an easy one his father was rapist and murder and in prison forever and I could totally understand why he feared to be like his father, coz DNA doesn’t lie and there would be always a possibility we ‘inherit bad habits’ from our parents. But FP studied psychology for one semester (before she dropped out of college – I’m so sorry for her parents!), well, this ‘woman’ knew better (everything about psychology) and was sure the nature would make a big exception for the ‘love of her love’ – so everyone was just dandy… *eye roll*

He treated her awful, I wouldn’t even notice such man, but she was fine with everything – she got what she wanted.

They had good sex – it was the only basis for their ‘relationship’ – she even gave him her anal cherry (which is probably a proof of deep love) -> I’ll never forget the scene when her brother caught her + MP in compromising position (fortunately they didn’t have sex), but butt plug and lube were involved.

I'd like to unread this book.

Overall: I would be ashamed to be related to such woman (deeply sorry for her parents and brothers) and I would never be friends with her.

Such fictional female characters degrade my female gender.


All above is my personal opinion.
Take it or leave it…

[Patty ~ Wrapped Up In Reading Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

*****FOUR STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}



”Van?” I whisper. ”Am I still shiny?”
”Yes, Simone. So fucking shiny you make everything else in the world seem a little less dull by comparison.”









We met Van Turner and Simone Fournier in ”LUCAS”. I was excited to get to their story since I love romances with the older brother’s best friend. I knew that Van and Simone would generate a ton of heat between them since they seemed to rile each other up so easily. Their story ended up being quite different from any of the previous books. This wasn’t my favorite in the series but I must admit it was without a doubt the steamiest!





Simone is currently rooming with her older brother Lucas and his fellow Cold Fury teammate and best friend, Van Turner. She recently dropped out of college and seems just a bit lost. Lucas invites her to live temporarily in the house he shares with Van until she figures out in what direction she wants to take next in life. She is instantly smitten with Van from the moment she meets him and his cold and snarky attitude towards her only fuels her determination to seduce him.







The two play a cat and mouse game for a while. Van tries to pretend that he is not in the least bit attracted to Simone, but he’s no match against her stubbornness. Soon enough they are heating up the sheets and getting down and dirty in just about every room in their house, when Lucas is not around of course, and even in some dark alleyways out in public. These two are insatiable and up for anything to get their rocks off. Their relationship for almost three-quarters of the book seems to be purely carnal and I must admit that I was hoping for a bit more romance which doesn’t really happen till almost nearly the end of the story.






Van has a secret and it’s huge. Something from his distant past still haunts him to this day and it has affected his life deeply. His inability to form close relationships with women and awkwardness in social situations all stem from his painful past. He makes it very clear to Simone that all they can ever have is a sexual relationship and she is more than a willing participant. She made it all too easy for Van and some of her bad life choices made it hard for me to empathize with her.




These two have so much stacked against them, it seems almost impossible that they will end up having a lasting relationship together.





I have to give credit to Sawyer Bennett for coming up with a backstory for Van that I would have never have anticipated and I’m not really sure how I feel about the path she took in that respect. There was also one scene that was so cringeworthy that I wished was not even in the story at all. It made me dislike the heroine even more.




This might not be my favorite in the series but I think most of you may find it very entertaining. It’s sure to get your temperatures rising.





Here are my overall ratings on the book:

Hero: 4
Heroine: 3.5
Plot: 4
Angst: 3.5
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 4



VAN releases on November 28th!



Amazon: http://amzn.to/2zm018j
B&N: http://bit.ly/2pUfkB2
iBooks: http://apple.co/2pB0YqS
Google Play: http://bit.ly/2qG2XeA
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2pPNkkK
Audible: http://adbl.co/2BgeVOC

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review



Shiny!!! So Shiny!!!! Yes, readers will get blinded because Sawyer Bennett has delivered a romance that was utterly beautiful, heartfelt, and sexy as hell. In this ninth installment of the Cold Fury Hockey Series, Van Turner will steal your hearts as his story is so unique and different that you can’t help but fall for him.



Simone Fournier is the baby sister of Max and Lucas, whom you have met in the previous books. Unlike her brothers, Simone is a little lost as to what career path she wants. She recently dropped out of college and is living on the couch of Lucas and his roommate, Van. Currently, she is just working a waitressing job in order to pay back her parents since they made it known to her that she needs to do something with her life and pay them back for the tuition if she doesn’t go back to school.

Since Simone is very much attracted to Van, she wants him. She flirts relentlessly with him. Van is very aware what Simone is trying to do and so he tries to avoid being in the same room as her since he knows Max and Lucas will not approve of him for their baby sister.

I know you, Van Turner,” I whisper to him. “And I think you’re mighty fine.”

Van is a man of very few words. He doesn’t get close to anyone except for his aunt, who helped raised him. He doesn’t do relationships at all. For him, it’s all about casual sex. No feelings that is until, Simone forces her way into his life.

During their first encounter, Simone lets Van know that all she wants from him is just sex. Van makes it known to Simone that this thing between them is just no strings attached sex and no one can know about it. Well as it turns out, it can’t be just casual sex when feelings begins to develop. What happens when Simone discovers Van’s buried secret? Will Van push Simone away? Or will Simone be the one to heal and guide Van to the right direction? And what happens when Simone’s brothers discovers that she has been hiding her relationship with Van?



As always, Sawyer Bennett did a fabulous job with Van. I loved everything about this book from Van and Simone’s flawed personalities to the raw emotions and sexual chemistry that Van and Simone have for each other. Bennett showcased a love story that was more than about sports but the importance of what really matters… love. So if you are looking for a book that will make you feel for the characters then I highly recommend you to read this book. Trust me when I tell you, you will love unmasking the mystery of Van Turner as you get to see the real him when he is with Simone.

Sawyer Bennett

[✰ Liz ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

★4.5★

"I'm tired of your games little girl."

Van is the ninth book in the Cold Fury Hockey Series however it can certainly be read as a stand-alone. This is my first read by Sawyer Bennett and I can say with complete certainty I am hooked! What can be better than hockey, romance, and smoking hot steam? NOTHING!

"I'm going to own your cunt. I won't fucking stop until that pussy squeezes every drop out of me."

Van Turner is an enforcer on the Cold Fury Team. He has prided himself on living a private life. He is quite the ladies man and yet, he has never allowed himself to bond with anyone beyond a physical connection. When Simone Fournier crashes into Van's life, he is unwilling to give her the time of day. Simone is ruthless in her quest to win Van over. Simone's spunky attitude and persistence break through and eventually Van succumbs to his attraction to her. As Simone and Van connect both physically and emotionally, the truth of Van's past is revealed. As the demons from his past begin to threaten their future, Simone will do whatever it takes to give security and support like he has never experienced before.

"He's such a scary mother fucker but damn if he isn't a lamb with you."

Told in dual POV, Van is a sexy read with strong characters and an intriguing plot. Simone is such a strong heroine and her pursuit of Van was hilariously entertaining. Van is a typical broody male and yet, his history was quite complex and as the plot unfolds, I fell more in love with him and only wanted him to find happiness. He and Simone are a perfect match. The supporting characters enhance the plot greatly as the team is in the playoffs! I am thrilled to have discovered a new series to explore!



Overall, I highly recommend this read to anyone who enjoys an entertaining hockey romance full of passion and a lot of heart. This was my first Sawyer Bennett read and I can say with complete certainty it will not be my last. Lucky for me I have eight more books from this series to explore!

***Cold Fury Hockey***


*ARC graciously provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review!

For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

[Astrid - The Bookish Sweet Tooth · Rating 5 out of 5]

✮ ✮ ✮ 4.5 STARS ✮ ✮ ✮

Review @ Vanilla & Spice Books






The Cold Fury series keeps getting better! I loved most of them, three of them were outstanding for me, those being Alex, Max and *drum roll*, now VAN! Yes. I would even argue that this new installment in the series is the best of yet.





I had crazy fun with the main characters of the book. We met Van and Simone in Lucas, which was Simone and Max Fournier's brother. It was obvious that there was something going on between the vivacious Simone and the taciturn Van.





Simone was a hoot. She is sexually very forward, has no issue saying what she wants and is relentless in pursuing it. She has a thick skin and doesn't take it personally when Van keeps saying no to her, no, it spurs her on. Simone isn't a doormat or easy, when she draws a line she won't cross it. As stubborn as she is in her pursuit of Van, she doesn't let him walk all over her. And then we get the side of her with the big heart, the depth that shows the love for her family, the compassion she feels for Van's past, her sorrow for having disappointed her family and her own confusion about her future.

Van?” I whisper. “Am I still shiny?”
He chuckles, pulls me in tighter, and squeezes the breath out of me.
“Yes, Simone. So fucking shiny you make everything else in the world seem a little dull by comparison.”

Van is one cranky dude. His walls are miles high and in the beginning Simone is nothing else but a pebble in his shoe. She annoys the hell out of him but the girl has a way of getting under his skin and soon he finds himself doing and thinking uncharacteristic things. Simone comes into his life with a wrecking ball and tears down his walls. Little by little he lets her in. Van isn't easy to love in the beginning but gradually with each comical exchange between those two and his obvious confusion about Simone you can't help but fall in love with him.

He gives a ragged moan that sounds fulfilled and defeated all at the same time.

There is a fine line when it comes to cranky alphaholes. It's hard to not overdo the crankiness and a-holery and make the hero redeemable, even lovable. Sawyer Bennett's Van is perfection. She really nailed him. Even when Simone has his love he is still himself. He isn't a soft and sweet pussycat, at least not for everyone else but Simone in the end.



And can I say that they were really hot in bed? I know that this author writes some of the hottest sexy times but damn. DAMN!
Simone's sass is a special kind, it's the self-assured one we usually see in cocky heroes. She was hilarious!

Van’s lips press tight and anger flashes in his eyes. He enunciates his words clearly, leaning slightly toward me. “I’m. Not. Interested. In. You. Simone.”
I wrinkle my nose and shake my head. “Nah . . . you see, that wasn’t really convincing. But I do love the way my name sounds coming out of your mouth. Try it again, though, if you want.” For a brief moment, I’m afraid Van might stroke out.

I loved Van's background story, it was unusual and captivating and a little bit heartbreaking. I also love that Sawyer Bennett never drags out the angst, the drama is never over the top and quickly resolved.

Well, you were my first everything, Simone. My first love. First devotion. My first heartbreak. My one and only relationship with a woman. You were my first confidant and companion. Simone . . . you were my first friend ever. My first . . . everything.”

Swoon!


Sawyer Bennett knocked Van out of the park and of all the Cold Fury books VAN has become my favorite in the series. Next up is REED and you bet your ass that I'll be reading it.




Teasers courtesy of the author

[Wendys Wycked Words · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everyone knows I am a big Hockey fan, and even tough I skipped some books in this series, (don't ask me why because I don't even know) I was very excited about reading this one ;)

Sawyer gives us another very steamy (and a bit kinky) addition to this wonderful series. I wonder how many she'll add, since we are at book 9 already ! Not that I'm complaining...no siree !!



Anyways...this time it's Van's turn. He played a part in the previous book, but no worries... all these books be read as stand alone's ;)

Simone is the sister of Lucas and Max ( books 6 & 8 ) and she is quite the feisty woman !! She is not afraid to go after what she wants and what she wants right now is Van !!



Van isn't an easy catch though...

When she does catch him, they agree to a "just sex, no strings" relationship....or should I say non-relationship :P

We all know how that works out though... there are always gonna be feelings involved !! !!! You would think they would all know by now !!



I really enjoyed this one, just like all the others I have read in this series. Van was an awesome character and I really liked Simone ! Their chemistry was through the roof and the sexy times were SMOKING !!



All in all another awesome addition to the series and I myself can't wait to see what will be next !!

My reviews are posted on DirtyBooksObsession

[Wendy'sThoughts · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Intense and Worth It Stars
* * * * 1/2 Spoiler Free It's LIVE!!!!!
I am going to make this quick. This is a strong entry to the Cold Fury Series. Van is not your run of the mill Hockey guys... he keeps to himself and he thinks it is for a good reason.

Simone Fournier has other ideas. She took one look at Van... and saw something that called to her. The more he pushed away... the more she teased and taunted.

This had all the markings of Naughty, Wrong and a bit Cray Cray from anyone's standpoint... But Simone saw through it all... determined to Get Through to Van...

And the Getting Through was Oh, So Good.

Alex (Cold Fury Hockey, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Garrett (Cold Fury Hockey, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Zack (Cold Fury Hockey #3)
Ryker (Cold Fury Hockey, #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Hawke (Cold Fury Hockey, #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Max (Cold Fury Hockey, #6)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Roman (Cold Fury Hockey, #7)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Lucas (Cold Fury Hockey, #8)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Van (Cold Fury Hockey, #9)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Reed (Cold Fury Hockey, #10)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Marek (Cold Fury Hockey, #11)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Love that I am getting the taste of Van and Simone...
Van thinks he is a hard ass and can push everyone away...
Little does he realize he has met his match...

For Simone is a Fournier...
And when they dig in....
They don't give up!

Let the Battle of Wills begin...
●•●•●•●•●•●•●•
August 15. 2017
So, we were introduced to Van...
And this is a guy who plays everything very close to the vest...

He blatantly makes no real friends on the team...
Oh, he will tolerate and make nice when necessary...
But don't look for him to be your "Bro"...

He never figured on Simone to constantly challenge his facade...
She is relentless and knows what she wants...
And what she wants is...

Van (Cold Fury Hockey, #9)-November 28th 2017


For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways

[Dali · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sawyer Bennett does it again with Van and Simone's story by bringing the sexiness and a touching.

As with the previous EIGHT books in this series, I was very excited to dig into Van, especially after reading the snippet at the end of Lucas, book #8 in the series. Sawyer Bennett does not disappoint. Her writing style and storytelling captures my attention every time. With Van I found myself engrossed in a stories I could hardly put down. Plus, it was great to catch up with all the gang from the Cold Fury hockey team and in this particular story relive Lucas’ road to happiness from a different perspective as Van and Simone’s relationship unfolds almost in tandem.

Simone is the youngest of the Fourier siblings and the most determined. Unhappy with her career choice, she decides to drop out of college and crash in with Lucas, one of her hockey star brothers. She’s unsure of what to do with her life, but upon meeting Van she’s certain she wants him. And what she wants, she gets.

She recognizes Van has huge walls around him, that he’s probably unable to give more than a good time in bed, and that he’s her brothers’ teammate. She pushes and comes on strong to make sure to melt a layer of his glacier like disposition every time. And with the passion between them, she’s sure she’ll get through. But can she reach his soul?

Van Turner is a tough on and off the ice. He uses hockey as an outlet for his anger and frustration and is a douche canoe to keep everyone at a distance fearing what would happen if anyone found out about his past. Until Simone saunters into his life. Try as he might, it’s impossible for him to resist the infuriatingly sexy, sassy and full playful naughtiness woman. What started as a one night tryst, soon evolves into so much more. But how would she react if she knew his dark secret?

I’m of the opinion that good character development requires character growth. Both Van and Simone are definitely flawed and it took me a bit to warm up to them, particularly Simone as she made some questionable choices. But she learned about herself as she cracked Van’s layers. She’s caring and perfect for him. And Van… I just loved the big broody, closed off dolt. He had to do some deep soul searching before he could move forward but once he let his guard down, it’s impossible for him to not fall for Simone. And they’re absolutely explosive together!

Van is book #9 of the Cold Fury Hockey series by Sawyer Bennett. Their story is sexy and captivating and I really enjoyed it. It is a standalone contemporary hockey romance told from both points of view with a happy ending.

4.5 stars

Amazon -> http://amzn.to/2A3UJ49

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[Kristiej · Rating 1 out of 5]

In truth I give this book 0 stats but that isn’t an option. I have adored many of this author’s books some more than others of course though there have been a few I haven’t liked at all. For the most part she’s been an autobuy author. In fact the book I read previously was a 5 star book. But I’ve never actually felt icky reading any of her books until I started reading this one and it had such a visceral effect on me that I won’t read any more books by Ms. Bennett and that makes me very sad. I couldn’t get through it because of the queasiness I felt and I’m going to do something I’ve never done before and return it since I don’t even want it on my IPad.

The main reason is because of (and I’m borrowing this from another reviewer it was such a good way of putting it) the female protagonist Simone Fournier. She is the younger sister of Max and Lucas two players on the Carolina Cold Fury hockey team who both had their own books, which I thoroughly enjoyed by the way.

Where do I start with how much I loathe her? She has one final semester at Dartmouth, a rather prestigious college, on her way to becoming a doctor when she decides she’s had enough school and quits. Seriously? Her parents have been paying for her schooling and she just up and spits in their face in a way when she’s almost done. She doesn’t even have the decency to tell them when she does first quit. What an incredibly selfish and self-centered move that is.
Then she decides to move in with her brother Lucas and his roommate Van. Does she ask them? Not this one. She just barrels her way in and sleeps on the couch. It’s mentioned that it’s a small 2 bedroom house that Van and Lucas are renting since they are both new to the Carolina team and they want to get the lay of the land first. This is another selfish move on the FP’s part. A thoughtful person who cares about other’s feelings and has a respect for their space just doesn’t do this kind of thing.

At this point I dislike her intensely. But then she crosses so far past my boundary of decent behavior that the dirty feelings inside me commence. She decides she wants to have sex with Van and starts to harass him about it. Endlessly. I don’t know whether it’s because in RL it’s finally the time women are starting to come out and let the world know how they’ve been treated by men that makes this even more disturbing to me, but Van makes it very clear he doesn’t want to have sex with her; more than once. But she doesn’t leave him alone. He finally gives in just to get her to leave him alone but that’s not enough for her and one night she crosses right over and out and out sexually assaults him. He tells her no again and again and asks her to leave him alone but she won’t stop.

Now suppose the situation were reversed and the ‘hero’ did this to the woman? Would we, as women accept this in a ‘hero’? I think not. I think many a reader would be horrified at this kind of behavior. In all honesty I’m rather shocked that more reviewers haven’t made note of this. I usually don’t question when a fellow reader has a totally different opinion on a book but in this particular case I’ll admit puzzlement that this double standard is completely acceptable.

Van treats Simone like the garbage I consider she is, up until I reached the point I couldn’t read another word of this book. And she takes it because the sex is so good. She has no respect for herself and as I reader I have zero respect for her. And Van is a total asshole. I don’t know if he gets better, I don’t really give a shit if he does or doesn’t. I read to the part where the reason is given and it doesn’t excuse what he’s become. I recently read another book where the hero endured the same kind of childhood trauma and author handled it completely differently and the hero of that books was a very sympathetic character. But not Van. He’s cruel, at least as far as I got.

So I’m disheartened that I will no longer be reading this author’s books. But the fact that she can make sexual harassment and assault as a normal thing and perpetuate such a disgusting double standard in my opinion is reason enough.

[Sabrina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK



Van was a good addition to this series. I kind of got a little bored with it around the middle when there wasn't much going on between these characters, though. It can be read as a standalone yet runs parallel to the last story, which got a little annoying since the last books Hero was mentioned a few too many times for my liking.

Overall, the story by itself kept me interested and had me wanting to see how this couple would work out, so it's still a book I would recommend.

[Optimist ♰King's Wench♰ · Rating 4 out of 5]

After picking this solely on the “A-hole” reference in blurb coupled with hockey divided by liking the dude’s face on the cover, my expectations weren’t super high cuz my picker has been on the fritz lately.

Boy, am I ever glad I was wrong! Right? Whatever. What I’m saying is this was gooooooooooooodddddddd. I was getting pretty happy with the banter and the thrill of the chase then I got to the first sex scene and was all…

WHO THE HELL IS THIS AUTHOR???????

Then I went to look and saw she was a NYT bestselling author! I’m always the last to know. I tell you what those New Yorkers know WTF is up, you get me?

In addition to the sex being rough, slightly kinky (more of that could’ve made it on page) and scorching, the two MCs are well-developed and *gasp* likable.

Van is kind of a lone wolf onaccounta his baggage. He’s taciturn and stoic because the baggage is significant and it’s created his persona in many ways. He’s SUPER bad at social niceties which I found pretty charming actually, but the bottom line is he really doesn’t know how to be any other way.

Simone is his opposite. She’s sassy, extroverted and in need of a place to crash since she’s dropped out of Dartmouth so she ends up on her brother Lucas’ doorstep. She’s smart, funny, sex positive and a little bratty but insightful AF. I maybe identified with her being lost as to what to do with her life. Been there. Done that. Got a closet full of t-shirts. I also liked that there weren’t easy answers for her on that front.

What is an easy decision for her is Van. She takes one eyefucking look at him and decides she wants him then proceeds to relentlessly pursue him. He pushes her away multiple times and is kinda mean about it occasionally, but she is having none of it.

I loved it and I loved her.

The story of how Van and Simone become a “they” is not a new one nor is it unique, but how honest they both are with themselves as well as each other was refreshing. There is of course one exception, but it needed to happen that way. Their transition from sex to love was a gradual one and that rang authentic. I love it when couples are good for each other and maybe Simone is winning in that department but I believe the scales will even out the longer they’re together. Once Simone uncovers his secret how much I respected her response to him cannot be put into words; the whole thing gave me #feelings. Their alternating POVs tell this slice of life romance and go a long way towards character development. There’s little drama or angst but there is a healthy heaping of tongue slap your brains out sex! I would throw down a quote right about now but all of ’em are long so I’ll leave you with this gif that approximates my reactions.



They have chemistry galore and when Van takes the lid off his restraint they are explosive. It’s no holds barred and nothing is off limits. It was a thing of beauty, I tell ya. Blew my doors clean off, it did.

I wish there had been more hockey but what was there for team dynamics were good. Their story seems to overlap with Lucas’ but this can be read as a standalone.

This was my first Sawyer Bennett but will not be my last.

Recommend to romance fans who like their romance without dramatics.



An ARC was provided by NetGalley.

[~Mindy Lynn~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Shiny Stars!

Van is the only book in this series that I have read. I was a bit weary I would feel lost or not be able to follow the story with so many books coming before it. So not the case. This can most definitely be read as a standalone.

I really loved Simone. She is a gal who goes after what she wants, but in this case it's a "who" that she wants. She recently dropped out of college and is pretty lost at where she wants to go in life and what the future holds for her. She decides to crash with her brothers until she figures it out. When she feels like there's not enough room at Max's she drags all her bags to Lucas's porch and pretty much declares she's staying there whether he wants her there or not. She's fine with the couch and she is most definitely fine with Lucas's roommate, Van. She is in complete lust for the man and goes to extremes with her flirting to try and get him to pay her any attention. Girlfriend had no shame in her flirt. She cracked me up.
Van is loner, un-social, and a introvert. He doesn't have any friends and has never had a relationship with a woman. He likes it this way. He has his reasons for wanting to keep it this way. So when Simone keeps pursuing him the more frustrated he becomes. He's attracted to her of course. But she also scares him because he has a past that he's ashamed of and he can feel his walls slowly being knocked down by this woman. He doesn't want his past or that kind of darkness that he believes might live in him to touch her. But he gives in and once he does sparks fly and these two burn up the pages with their sexy times.

Van was a really fun read with a touch of darkness. I laughed and genuinely really liked both MC's. They were great together. My only complaint is that I wish they had more one on one time that didn't include them having sex. I would have liked to have seen them together a bit more outside of the bedroom.

All in all a great read and I definitely want to read about the rest of these guys.

Happy reading dolls! xx

**I RECIEVED AN ARC FROM NETGALLEY AND THE PUBLISHER IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.**

[Nicola · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally. Finally Sawyer Bennett has brought us a couple more in line with those who featured in the earlier books from her Cold Fury series. More than once have I been ready to part ways with the team due to average storylines and characters after book 3 (and awful covers after book #4 but let’s leave that alone) however I’ve persevered and I’m glad because Van Turner and Simone Fournier delivered the goods.

“I’m a pain in your ass, but I’m a sexy pain in your ass and I’m totally hard to resist.”

I’m not going to lie, Simone started on a bit of a sticky wicket as there’s a fine line between being forward, and forcing yourself onto an unwilling party and she was teetering right on the edge of the latter for a moment. Thankfully though, Bennett reigned her in just in time and rather than becoming prospective stalker material, we’re given a young woman who owns her sexuality, isn’t shy with her desires and has a first class honours degree in pushing all Van’s buttons. He may be quiet, brooding and very private, but as the saying goes: the quiet ones are the worst.

“I’m going to show you what happens when you aren’t smart enough to stop provoking me.”



I admit I went into this fearing I may struggle with Van due to his portrayal in Lucas . Detached and a man of few words, when he does speak he can be brusque to the point of rudeness, but he has a backstory that was as unexpected as he was, one that has shaped him and explains so much as to why he is the loner he is. Happily, my fears were unfounded and I quickly grew to love him, as I did Simone with her bouncy, straight-talking yet thoughtful personality and relentless flirting. And when Van can no longer fight the attraction, they steam up the pages very nicely with their sexy shenanigans whilst also creating some lovely touching moments as they really get to know one another.

“I’ve given you more than I’ve ever given another woman, but I’ve given you my all.”

The Fournier family have pretty much saved this series for me and I’m so pleased Simone and Van were given the story they deserved. For any lover of the Cold Fury series, this is a worthy hot, sexy, fun and heartfelt addition, and one I have no doubt you’ll enjoy hugely.

“God he’s dirty, and I love it.”

Copy received courtesy of Loveswept.

[Syndi · Rating 4 out of 5]

On the previous books in this series, I always think the story is cheesy. Short easy read on the beach. But in Van, its different a bit. Van is interesting character. His background is dark even though Miss Bennett brings it down to minimum. Simone is a confident woman. She has no shame on her sexuality and her interest in Van. Even Van pushed her away at first.
But then their push and pull becomes more steamy.

Simone is a interesting character. She is coming strong seducing Van. For me it is very refreshing to have a heroine hot chasing the hero. Usually the hero is the one doing the chasing. I just wish Miss Bennett can make the seduction more classy instead of trashy.

The cheesy romance is still there. But somehow with Simone character this book pops up among the rest of the series.

4 stars

[Carole (Carole's Random Life) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.

This was great! Honestly, I think that this may be the hottest book in the series so far. If you follow my reviews, you probably already know that I am a huge fan of the Cold Fury Hockey series. I jumped into the series with the second book and haven't looked back although I should probably check out the first book at some point. This is a series that works great as stand alone books but fans of the series will appreciate seeing well loved characters for just a bit. Van is a excellent addition to the series.

I went into this book hoping that I would like it as much as the others but not sure that I would warm up to Van as a Hero. Let me assure you that was not a problem because I fell completely in love with him. He has such an interesting history that really explains some of his behaviors. He is really a great guy that has spent his life trying to remain distant from other people.

Simone was something else. She is the baby sister of the two Fournier brothers that have been the Hero of their own books, Max and Lucas. Simone is at a crossroads in her life and is trying to figure out what direction she wants to go. One thing that she knows she wants is Van and I loved watching her go for what she wants. I loved how Simone isn't afraid to take risks and was so willing to put her heart on the line.

This book actually takes place at the same time as the previous book in the series. You do not need to read the previous book to enjoy this one but I really enjoyed seeing certain events from a different perspective. The book opens with Simone moving into the house the her brother shares with Van. The chemistry between Simone and Van was wonderful and grew throughout the story. If you are looking for a steamy story, this one brings quite a bit of heat. I just loved this pair together.

I would recommend this book to others. I had so much fun reading this sexy romance with great characters. I can't wait to read more from Sawyer Bennett very soon!

I received an advance reader edition of this book from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley.

Initial Thoughts
Whew! This may be the steamiest book in the series so far. I liked Van and Simone together a lot.

[Mindy Lou's Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m a bit in awe with Sawyer Bennett with how she took a story that started out as one of the least romantic stories, only to end it in one of the most romantic ways. I think this literally started changing at the 50% mark and it’s worth the patience I needed to get there.

The reason I wasn’t a fan of the beginning was all on Van and Simone. Van had such a high wall built around himself that he was untouchable. Because of that, Simone had to be pretty aggressive in her pursuit of him. I’m just not a fan of seeing a woman having to beg to be let in and only let in where her body is the only thing allowed. I was beginning to wonder if Simone had any pride. The result of this combination and how Simone slowly chipped away at Vans brick wall was also a thing of beauty. That ending was so worth Simone’s efforts.

While these two may not have had my favorite characteristics, they certainly won me over by the end. Next is Reed’s book and I’m looking forward to his book. He seems pretty happy go lucky. That’s one of my favorite things about this author. She doesn’t feel the need to write the same type of character over and over. You don’t know what you’re getting but you do know it’s going to be good.

ARC provided by NetGalley.

[Carol · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars.
I have read quite a few hockey romances over the last year or so, however this is my first one by Sawyer Bennett and this book wasn't even close to what I was expecting.
If I had to break it down, essentially this book was long on sex and short on story. More erotica and less sports romance.
I have read several other books by this author and I like her writing style. This was a quick and mostly entertaining read but I wanted more depth and more of a storyline, so it was just ok for me. I liked it, nothing special.
ARC received in exchange for honest review.

[Jacqueline's Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

Van is a standalone and is part of the Cold Fury Hockey Series. I thought I read every book in the series, but I’m missing two. I need to read them soon.

I’m obsessed and addicted to these Hockey boys. I tell ya, every book I pick up is different. Some of it is light, some of it is a little darker and all have drama.

I’ll admit I didn’t like Simone. I started this book and I instantly hated her. I don’t like a loose girl, so sue me. I’m all about woman power, but it was such a turn-off on how strong Simone was. She practically threw herself at Van, but I’m getting ahead of myself because let me say. By the end of the book, the girl grew on me.

Van’s book takes place mid-way in Lucas’ book. You don’t have to read Lucas’ book prior to reading Van’s, but I found it cute that the time lines overlapped, because I liked both boys. Van is Lucas’ roommate and Simone is Lucas’ little sister.

Yup! It’s a teammate’s little sister read!

This book was heavy! And so yummy. Once I got past Simone’s forward behavior she wasn’t so bad. I kind of liked how light she made the book. She’s a carefree girl, just dropped out of college and is finding herself and is staying on Lucas’ and Van’s couch.

Yup, you can see where this is going.

Van is super broody and my type of Hero. He doesn’t do relationships and he does EVERYTHING he can to push Simone away. I mean, like physically away because she throws herself on-top of him. It was kind of humorous and it gave the book some light moments.

I liked the banter and chemistry between Van and Simone. I like how complicated Van was and I liked how carefree Simone was. The opposites worked for this book. The read was addictive and fast face. I read it in one sitting. If you are a fan of the series, you will not be disappointed.

AN ARC was provided



ALEX #1 AMAZON
GARRETT #2 AMAZON
ZACK #3 AMAZON
RYKER #4 AMAZON
HAWKE #5 AMAZON
MAX #6 AMAZON | REVIEW
ROMAN #7 AMAZON
LUCAS #8 AMAZON
VAN #9 AMAZON
REED #10 AMAZON
MAREK #11 AMAZON

[Irene · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Van by Sawyer Bennett is a smoking hot and entertaining read, and I loved it!

Sawyer Bennett has once again delivered with Van, the writing is strong, the storyline will capture your interest from the first chapter and keep you turning the pages late into the night!



Van and Simone are passionate, likable characters that will touch you with their story.
These two will bring out the feels, one min they will make you laugh with their sexual banter, then you'll want to smack them both with their stubbornness and refusal to see what was clear as day. They belonged together.
Simone and Van have a special connection that doesn't come by very often, I loved watching their relationship unfold and the chemistry between them was smoking, seriously these two were hot *fans self*



Van is an excellent addition to the Cold Fury Hockey series and I highly recommend it.
For me, the Cold Fury Hockey series has been a joy to read, with great writing, strong, passionate characters that will entertain you with their love stories and leave you with a smile on your face =)

Reed's book is next and I can't wait to get my hands on it!

*Get Van at these outlets*
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2zm018j
B&N: http://bit.ly/2pUfkB2
iBooks: http://apple.co/2pB0YqS
Google Play: http://bit.ly/2qG2XeA
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2pPNkkK

*An ARC was provided in exchange for my honest thoughts*

[Auntee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I doubt I'm going to be able to do this justice, but I'll try...

Van is without a doubt one of Sawyer Bennett's best! Not just of the Cold Fury series, but of all her books. This hero, hockey star Van Turner...is just soooo....ummm. I can't describe him. He's messed up. (and I love a messed up hero.) He is just so bottled up with hurt and fear and anguish and what he thinks the future holds for him and what the past did to him...and he takes it out on the people around him by being a big old cranky grumpy asshole...oh, I just wanted to shake him! Thank god, THANK GOD Simone Fournier ( Max and Lucas) sister barreled her way into his life and would not be stopped! She didn't care how rude Van was to her, or how he pretended not to care, this girl saw what she wanted and she wanted Van. She chipped away at him, and chipped away at him, until he finally opened up to her, revealing his big, tragic secret (god I hurt for him!)

Now I must admit, at first I thought Simone was being a bit slutty the way she sexually harassed Van! That put me off just a bit. But then I grew to absolutely love her! She was just what Van needed!! Their journey was remarkable, their sex scenes were the smoking-est, their love story made me cry *sniff*. Their epilogue was a bit surprising (no spoiler here) but I loved it. Hands down my favorite couple of the Carolina Cold Fury.
Fans of this series, don't miss this one!
5 Big Stars

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing an ARC

[RachelW (BamaGal) · Rating 2 out of 5]

I could deal with the fact that the book is basically soft porn (nonstop) if I had liked the leads and the “storyline” (such as it was) more; but I didn't. Van's big broody asshole bit was a bore, and his big secret was quite honestly a bust. As for Simone, she was so needy and desperate; she annoyed the crap out of me and didn't have a single redeeming quality. She sold herself short, and became Van’s sex toy.

Live and learn...on to the next read.

[✰ Bianca ✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

We're back with the hotties from the Carolina Hockey team!

This time we have new guy Van. We already met him in LUCAS - both books take place at the same time - so you might want to follow the series reading order!

Van is a very anti-social person. He's happy with a beer in front of the TV, with the news on. He doesn't need to talk, to have friends, and he doesn't need his roommate's annoying sister constantly tornadoing around him! Shamelessly flirting with him!
Simone temporarily moved in with her brother Lucas ... and Van - until she decides what to do with her life, now that she quit med school.
She's mega interested in Van. But the guy is so not interested.
Of course he's interested, but he can't afford something serious. He can't fall in love. Things happend when he was little - things with his parents probably? We don't yet know... But Van has some serious problems - or at least he thinks he has ...
But of course Simone won't give up that easily!!!

WHAT WiLL HAPPEN TO SiMONE & VAN????
WiLL THERE BE A HAPPiLY EVER AFTER?
READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT! ☺☺☺

══════════════════════





Finally a new book in this adorable Hockey series.

VAN!!!
I already loved him in LUCAS. He was so not interested in Simone - and he still tries to stay strong against her mega-flirting. But of course it's not working.
Adorable.
But we also have to fix whatever Van thinks is stopping him from having a happy life.
Simone has a lot of work to do until they can ride off into their happy end sunset!

I loved reading it! Very erotic, adorable, funny, moving - great romance!!!!

And now hurry Reed!!!!!!

I had some problems with the writing...as with every Sawyer book. It's Sawyer's and my THING ☺ It's only me who has those problems with her writing. So please don't be worried or just scroll down and don't read the following...
I have a HUGE AS problem! ☺ You know the AS's I'm talking about? The AS that could/should be exchanged for a SINCE or a BECAUSE or just a comma.☺ It's a British and or legal thing (if it's a thing at all!) and it doesn't have anything to do in an American book by an American author. I would be ok with it if one (British) character would use it, but everyone uses it! I really don't want to insult Sawyer. I love her books, but ... please stop doing it. But pfff who am I to tell her what to do, so just forget I said anything! It doesn't stop her books from being great!

V A N was another super-adorable, very sexy, funny & moving addition to this great hockey series! Run to your nearest amazon for your own VAN - this one is MINE!!!!!

♡ ♡
♡ ♡

[Debbie Oliphant · Rating 3 out of 5]

Can is the next installment of the Cold Fury series and it delivers on the hot and steaminess. I would recommend reading the previous installment, Lucas, as the storylines are parallel with a different POV.

Van shares a home with his teammate, Lucas. He likes his solitude and appreciates Lucas for giving him his space. His works is upended when Lucas's sister, Simone, moves in. She is loud and distracting and she has her eyes on Van.

Simone has quit school and trying to figure out what she wants to do with her life. She reaches out to her brothers and decided a stay with them could help her figure things out. She is attracted to Van and makes her interests known to him immediately. He wants to be left alone and he has his reasons but she is breaking down his walls and he is finding her hard to resist.

Van has a secret that has haunted him his entire life that has prompted him to isolate himself and prevent any type of connections with anyone. Hockey has played a big role in his life and it has been enough so far but Simone is about to change that.

This was another good story to the series and will not disappoint the fans of this author.

[~Stéphanie~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Van was the read I needed after American King! I enjoyed every minute of it! The close-off and introvert big guy has become my new favorite in the Cold Fury Hockey series!

Sawyer Bennett delivers a story and stays true to her plot all along. She has chosen to give us a broody hero and a sassy confident heroine. The part I loved the most is the fact she doesn’t rush anything. This might be a normal length book but I was wary of the fact it wouldn't feel real for a guy with absolutely no feeling to fall in love.

Simone is to date the best heroine the author has ever written about. She knows what effect she has on man. She isn't apologetic about it. You'll be surprise at how honest she is and how confident she acts. She doesn't take no for an answer and is never discouraged by Van's refusal. She has a mind of her own and the poor guy doesn't stand a chance.
She's also a woman who loves dearly and it shows in all of her actions, certainly more when she goes after Van.

While I've met Van & Simone in Lucas's book (who is Simone's brother), there's no need to read previous book(s) to be fully on board with what's happening here. Some of the actions happen alongside with Lucas' story so you might get curious about how it will goes for him if you don't know already.

I knew Van would be one of the tough guys and I wasn't let down in that department. He's without a doubt what I call a total asshole. He protects himself so much he has no real friends, no one he care about. He plan to stay alone all his life because trusting someone is really not an option. With Simone, he tries to resist but it's futile. What follow is one hot and steamy relation.

It could have been enough but this is where Sawyer's Bennett magic happens. There's an emotional twist with Van & Simone's story, one who gave this book depth and put this story as one of the best Cold Fury of the year.

~I voluntary read a copy of this book provided by the publisher~

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wasn’t sure about reading Van since I had such a hard time with the last book in this series, Lucas, but I decided to give it a try and it was marginally better. The funny thing is I was worried I wouldn’t like Van (the man) very much, but instead it was his love interest Simone that got on my every last nerve and I give Van a lot of credit for being able to put up with her bratty, selfish ways. I will admit at times I felt cheated as it ran somewhat concurrently with Lucas and thus a lot of the incidents that occurred were not new.

From the minute his roommate and team mate’s sister, Simone, enter their house Van knew she was trouble; he just had no idea how much trouble. I have to give Van a lot of credit for warding off Simone’s almost sexual harassment level advances and trying to be the voice of reason and a good guy. Van is no saint, but he also knows that Simone is at a crossroads in her life, she is young, and she is impulsive and Van knows he can’t be the man she wants him to be.

I’ll be flat honest in saying that I really didn’t like Simone a whole lot for the majority of this book. She did soften some and I do think she was good for Van in that she was a voice of reason when he needed it. In this way her tenacity paid off, but most of the time it just made her seem like a brat. I believe she fell hard and fast for Van and he did seem to understand her more than anyone else in her life, but I hoped to see her mature and own up to some of her less than stellar actions and that didn’t really happen and in fact her impulsive decision made her miss one of the most important events in her brother’s and Van’s life.

Van was a complicated character and given his background that wasn’t surprising. There was no doubt that his childhood left him scared and I hated that he put himself back in the path of it and really got no resolution. I loved his Aunt Etta and everything she had done for him including showing him how to love someone unconditionally, but she couldn’t protect him from the past. I was impressed that he opened up to Simone when he’d never done so with anyone else in her life and yes, she impressed me by giving him the understanding and care he deserved in that time. I hurt for Van and was glad to see him finally make peace with everything that happened to make him into the man he is today and realize that despite it all, he is worthy of friendship and love.

Overall, I did enjoy this book but for about the first 50% of it I was contemplating not finishing it as I found Simone’s action to be annoying and because it was concurrent with Lucas is was repetitive, but Van’s life interested me so I kept on and I’m glad I did.

[Carvanz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was AWESOME!!! The latest of Sawyer Bennett’s Cold Fury players, Van, doesn’t disappoint!

Simone has dropped out of college and forced herself into the home of her brother and his roommate, Van. She’s trying to figure out what to do with her life and along the way she’s going to seduce the handsome hockey player who’s moody and broody. And when Simone sets her mind on something, she never backs down.

Van can’t withstand all that is Lucas’ baby sister. No matter how much he needs to keep her at a distance, she flirts and flaunts her way into his pants, his bed and then his heart. But he’s been keeping a deep dark secret from everyone in his life and along with that secret, he’s living in fear. It is that combination that dictates that Simone must not tear down the walls he’s built around himself.

I loved this story so much! While I’m not a fan of aggressive heroines, Simone was exactly what Van needed. Any other type of woman would’ve never managed to pull him out of his self-imposed isolation. Despite her sexual aggression, she was sweet and giving, kind and loyal and she knew exactly what it was going to take to win her man and she was in it for the long haul.

Van was so damaged, in so many ways from his past that he was socially stunted. With no relationships in his life he didn’t know how to take the first steps toward something good that came in the form of the beautiful, seductive woman that was forcing herself into his life. My heart hurt for him when his whole story was revealed and I couldn’t help but totally understand why he pushed people away.

What an incredible read! Fast paced, well developed, with enough humor to lighten the angst and enough passion to steam my Kindle, Van has earned a place on my reread shelf!
This is an honest review of an advanced copy provided by NetGalley and Loveswept.

Dual POV
Safety H does sleep with other women after meeting h but not after anything physical happens between them and there is no description of these times; no ow/om drama
Possible triggers serial rapist and killer; suicide – none told in detail

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Van didn't turn out the way I thought he would, but boy was he all kinds of grumpy, yummy grumpiness. And his way of apologizing to Simone when he did stupid guy stuff was just perfect.

[FMABookReviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

❝Simone … you were my first friend ever. My first … everything.❞

‘Van’ just might be my favorite in the Cold Fury series.

We got a glimpse of Van and Simone in the last book in the Cold Fury series, ‘Lucas’, when Simone moved in with her brother, Lucas, and Van. Van did not act impressed by her. Although, you could definitely sense the sexual tension. 'Van' starts out with Simone moving in. This book runs concurrent with ‘Lucas’ but never did I feel like we were getting a retelling. Instead, it was great seeing events in ‘Lucas’ through the eyes of Simone and Van. 'Van', however, could be read as a standalone.

❝I’m tired of your games, little girl. No more flirting and shaking your ass around me.❞

Van Turner is the enforcer for the Cold Fury hockey team. He’s a bruiser to his core. He’s hiding a terrifying secret that has shaped him into the man he is today. His reputation as an asshat has helped keep people at bay. He’s all for one night stands, but anything more, could bring his secret to life and could hurt more than just him.

I loved the moments we got to see Van’s vulnerability and his fears. He was always so stalwart and a pro at hiding behind his walls. So when he smiled, laughed or showed emotion, those tender moments were all the more powerful. However, beneath that brooding, standoffish man hid an alpha male so sexy, Simone could barely control herself.

Simone was a terrific character, she was loyal, full of spunk and sass. She was determined to live the life she wanted and that included having the man she desired.

❝He should have never shown me that. He should have kept that secret from me because I’m even more determined than ever to chip through this armor he’s wearing.❞

‘Van’ was steaming hot! The sex scenes were flaming because of the alpha male Van and the girl who is always up for anything, Simone. I turned off my electric blanket while reading this because I didn’t need any extra assistance keeping me warm!

‘Van’ satisfied the angst lover in me. It pulled at my emotions. I was angry and felt sad for Van and was proud of and rooted for Simone. One of the great things about this series is that while each book can be read as a standalone, you get a little bit about previous couples. So I cannot wait to find out what the future holds for Van and Simone!

**I was voluntarily provided this free review copy by the author, narrator, or publisher. This did not influence my opinion of the book nor my review.**

[Alison · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF at 20%.

I hate to abandon a book so early on but I had to for my mental health. In my defence I started reading this THREE times and each time a put it down in irritation.

Van Turner shares a home with his Carolina Cold Fury team mate Lucas, he's got a tortured past blah, blah, blah which I read about so long ago I can't remember. Whatever it is means he can never get close to anyone yadda, yadda, yadda. Lucas' sister Simone lands on their doorstep unannounced and insists on sleeping on their sofa - because her brothers are hockey players and couldn't afford a hotel room, right? She's a bit of a loser, dropped out of college and is making a 'living' as a waitress in a bar which makes the Hooters' waitresses' uniforms look like nun's habits (although I'll have to take that on faith as I have no idea what the waitresses wear at Hooters).

Simone thinks being aggressive and having a filthy mouth will wear Van down into sleeping with her, under her brother's roof because that's the kind of classy gal she is. Van of course is all deny, deny, deny and avoidance. Every so often she breaks down his resistance, they share a hot kiss and grope then he is disgusted with himself and walks away (usually to masturbate in his room).

You've probably guessed it already but I found Van to be a whiny cry baby and Simone to be (frankly) a sex pest. I have real trouble when female characters behave in a way that we would find objectionable if a man did the same. You just can't have different standards and she was harassing Van, okay he fancied her too but she was pushy and wouldn't take no for an answer. How many times do we women say "No, means no" and then allow female characters to ignore a very loud, clear "NO"? Sorry, I had a lot of spleen to vent for not very much reading.

When Van decides to spend his downtime in Simone's bar drowning his sorrows and is simultaneously (i) indignant on behalf of Simone's brothers that she is working there, (ii) turned on by barely there bikini top and micro shorts, and (iii) angry that other en are ogling her - so he takes her into the car park where he decides to dry hump her against a wall I decided to bail.

I have read quite a few Sawyer Bennett books before, I've even read one of the other books in the Cold Fury series and really enjoyed it so I'll chalk this up to experience. You can't love them all.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in return for an honest review.