Review: Playing Hurt by Kelly Jamieson

Series: Aces Hockey Book #6

Format: ebook

Rating: 4 Stars

How I Got It: NetGalley

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Sports Romance

Publisher: Loveswept

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

Chase: The last thing I’d ever want to do is let my team down. After overcoming my bad-boy reputation, I was dominating on the ice. But things aren’t going so well this season, and even my parents think I’m partying again. Now I’m really worried about my career. The only bright spot in my life is the Twitter flirtation I’ve struck up with pop princess Jordyn Banks. Turns out she’s a huge hockey fan—and she’s willing to wager a date on her favorite team. . . . 

Jordyn: Even though I’m an L.A. fan now, I’ve always had a soft spot for the Aces, since I grew up in Chicago. Then I lose a bet to Chase Hartman, and suddenly I’m up close and personal with a pro athlete who’s anything but soft. Not only is Chase the hottest guy I’ve ever met, he’s secretly super sweet. As if I had time for a relationship . . . yeah, right. But when I suddenly have nothing but time on my hands, he’s the only one who understands. Now, with both of our careers at stake, Chase is tempting me to put my heart on the line too.

Review

***I received this book via NetGalley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***

This was a pleasant surprise. When I first started it felt poorly written. The dialogue felt forced and it seemed like a hockey book written by someone who doesn't even casually watch it. But about 25% in the book took a turn. It felt much more natural and hooked me. I'm glad I pushed through and kept reading.

Jordyn and Chase were interesting characters. They were complex enough to feel real without being too angsty. And they both had things to deal with outside of the romantic story line.

The romance was very cute. There was immediate chemistry and their flirting made me smile. They had a lot of conversations loaded with sexual tension, but didn't just have sex which I liked. I also liked that they had real/adult arguments. And generally, they were handled in a realistic and mature way.

I'm really happy I kept reading this even though I was initially let down. It's my first Kelly Jamieson book and I will seek out her other books by her. It's always good to have another author who writes solid hockey/sports romances.

Thanks for reading!

Holly