🔖 REVIEW BLITZ 🔖 Surprised and Sacked by Gina Azzi

Surprised and Sacked by Gina Azzi

Release Date: February 5, 2024

Series: Knoxville Coyotes #2

Pages: 241

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Sports

Knoxville Coyotes rookie, West Crawford, is a celebrated, lightning-fast football god on the field. Off the field? He’s my ex-boyfriend and greatest heartache.

I didn’t think long-distance would break us when West was drafted to Tennessee, and I was called home to Paris for a family emergency. But it did.

Fast-forward six months and West is playing in the Super Bowl, I’m rooting for him to win, and our worlds re-collide.

Celebrating West’s success is supposed to be a one-night, free-for-all that ends with closure. Instead, it births a new beginning. Literally.

I’m having a baby with my ex, our lives are still thousands of miles apart, and nothing has changed. I mean, except the obvious.

Between West’s flourishing career, my familial responsibilities abroad, and a positive pregnancy test that surprises us both, our relationship is bound to be sacked before it has the chance to soar.

Amazon

My Review:

Azzi delivers a steamy sports romance in Surprised and Sacked. As second book in the Knoxville Coyotes Series, the story is about second chances and new beginnings, that will leave you rooting for the characters until the very end!

At the beginning of the book, we are introduced to West Crawford, a football player who has just scored the winning touchdown at the Super Bowl. As the rookie playing for the Knoxville Coyotes, West’s life is about change, he only wishes his ex was there to celebrate a milestone in his football career. It’s been five months since he last saw Nova Martin, it was the day she left him to go back to Paris for a family emergency and long distance ended what they had. But to his surprise, Nova shows up at the game ready to celebrate him one last time before heading back to Paris for good. Yet, what started off as their last night together, truly ended up turning West’s life upside down. He has been given a second chance to make things right with Nova and he won’t stop until he convinces her to give their relationship another shot.

For Nova Jeanne Martin her life has been full of ups and downs ever since a family emergency took her back to her family in Paris. It broke her heart to leave West behind, but with his career taking off being in long distance relationship wasn’t going to work. They both deserved a chance to make great things, but Nova hasn’t stopped thinking about West since the last time she saw him five months ago. Attending the Super Bowl was a last minute decision that would ultimately chance the course of her life forever. With West rapid fame, he has women thrown at him all the time and it’s hard for Nova to see that. Yet, another reason a long distance relationship can’t work between them, but she is pregnant with his baby. It could either bring them closer or push them further apart.

I truly enjoyed reading Surprised and Sacked, the chemistry between the characters was undeniable and the story had me hooked from beginning to end. We have two career-oriented people who are about to face parenthood and they go through ups and downs in order to get their happily-ever-after. I really loved reading the relationship between Nova and her family, they all had her back no matter what and accepted West in the process as well. Though he quickly proved himself to be the man that Nova can rely on and her family sees that. West has a solid friend group that kept me entertained. All in all, the ending was sweet and prefect for their story. I would highly recommend checking out this book, I cannot wait to read the rest of the series! :)

***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.***

My Rating: 4.5/5

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🔖 REVIEW 🔖 Faked and Fumbled by Gina Azzi

Faked and Fumbled  Gina Azzi

Release Date: November 30, 2023

Pages: 230

Series: Knoxville Coyotes Football #1

Genres: Romance, Sports, Contemporary

Knoxville Coyotes football heartthrob Cohen Miller is my brother’s best friend. Now, he’s the man posing as my fake boyfriend. Simple, right? Wrong.

I thought my luck couldn’t get worse than when my long-term boyfriend publicly dumped me. Wrong again. Now, my ex is dating my cousin, and our friend group is embarking on an annual ski trip.

Desperate to save face, I beg Cohen to pretend to like me. To bluff wanting me. To lay it on thick to convince my friends that I’m not heartbroken or hurt. I’m not damaged goods. That I have, in fact, moved on.

But during the trip, things change. Cohen’s longing glances make my heart race. His casual, familiar touches stir up new feelings. And his kiss? His kiss makes me yearn for things I’ve never experienced before.

Toss in one bed, an epic snowstorm, and a gossip circle a mile wide, and I’m praying we don’t fumble our fake relationship.

Obviously, I’m always wrong.

Amazon

My Review:

As the first book in the Knoxville Coyotes Football Series, Azzi delivers a second chance and new beginnings romance in Faked and Fumbled. This steamy romance will leave you wanting for more!

In her town, Raia Callaway has always been second best compared to her older brother, the football player and hometown hero. She has worked really hard to become a professional soccer player outside her home, until her life changes when her boyfriend of ten years brakes up with her before a game. A game that she would end up losing and getting hurt. Her dreams of playing in Europe quickly diminish and Raia finds herself going back home to recover from her injury. She is surprised to see Cohen Miller, her brother’s best friend and fellow Knoxville Coyotes football player.

It’s been years since she’s seen him, but she is grateful to have him around. He understands what it’s like to be a professional athlete and his concern for her makes her feel cared for. Until she gets a text that her cousin/best friend is dating her ex that completely crushes her heart. Raia feels betrayed, but she has to face them and doesn’t want to do it alone, so convincing Cohen to be her fake boyfriend for the week turns into so much more. Especially when they end up getting caught in a snowstorm, miles away from everyone else. Feeling begin to blossom and she doesn’t know if he feels the same way.

I throughly enjoyed reading Faked and Fumbled, it was a wholesome read that had me reading nonstop until the very end. I’m a huge fan of Azzi’s sports series and this was such a promising start that I cannot wait to read the next books in the series. While Raia struggles to fully feel at home and get past her cousin and ex’s betrayal. Cohen has worked really hard to get to where he is, he is a top football player who can get just about any woman he could possibly want, but struggles to find a deeper connection. Seeing Raia again, he feels protective towards her and there is a deeper feeling that he can’t deny. Pretending to be her fake boyfriend gets him that much closer to her and he realizes that they might just be perfect for each other, if he can convince her to give them a chance. Told in dual POV, this steamy sports romance ends on a perfect note that I would highly recommend checking it out! :)

***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.***

My Rating: 4.5/5

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🔖 REVIEW BLITZ 🔖 Rebellious Rockstar by Gina Azzi

Rebellious Rockstar by Gina Azzi

Release Date: June 1, 2023 by Three Cities Publishing

Series: The Burnt Clovers Trilogy #1

Pages: 255

Genres: Romance, Contemporary

One summer, one rebellious rockstar, and a love that won’t quit — even when it hurts.

Four years ago, Derek “Reign” Reiner gave me my first kiss and flipped my world upside down. Then, my brother’s bandmate catapulted to stardom, becoming a veritable rock god, while I moved across the country.

The last thing Derek expects is me on his band’s doorstep. Yet, here I am. Lost, uncertain about my future, and desperate to feel a connection — to my family, to my brother, to him.

I’m in Boston for one summer, hoping to find my path and discover if there’s something between Derek and me.

And, oh, there is.

Our attraction is intense and heady, fueled by a reckless need. Our chemistry is electric, brimming with a desperate passion neither of us can control.

And our relationship? Well, that’s complicated. Tumultuous.

Derek Reiner may be my brother’s best friend, an international heartthrob, and a musical genius. But he’s also mine.

Even if he breaks my heart.

Amazon

My Review:

Prepare to go on a rollercoaster ride in Gina Azzi’s latest romance, Rebellious Rockstar, the first book in The Burnt Clovers Trilogy. 

While other college students might be on their paths of pursuing their careers or goals, Allegra Rousell, couldn’t haven been anymore uncertain about her own future lately. So she takes a leave of absence from UCLA and sets off for Boston to see her brother, Levi. But upon arriving to Boston, Allegra is hesitant to see the rest of The Brunt Clovers band members, especially Derek Reiner. 

It’s been four years since she’s seen him and the last time she saw Derek, he gave Allegra her first kiss. A kiss the ruined her for anyone else. His alluring persona captivated her until she had to moved to the West Coast to attend UCLA. But now that she is back, Allegra is ready to see if Derek feels the same way and perhaps pursue a relationship with him. Soon everything around her starts to change, Allegra realizes that she doesn’t know anything about her brother’s life and just how far apart they’ve gotten over the years. Though career wise things begin to take off, there is still a lot that she needs to figure out, including her confusing feelings for Derek. 

As the lead member of The Brunt Clovers, Derek Reiner has been able to achieve stardom even after the difficult upbringing that he had growing up. As the band is getting ready to record their latest album before leaving for their European tour, he is shocked to see his best friend’s little sister, Allegra, show up. It’s been four years since he’s seen her and wonders what could possibly bring Allegra all the way to Boston. At first Derek doesn’t want her near his space, but that doesn’t mean that he’s over her. No matter how much he tries to push her away, Allegra is determined to make things work between them. But she is his best friend/band mate’s little sister making her off-limits. Until they cross the line of no return that he realizes just how much he is willing to put on the line for her. 

I’m a huge a fan of Azzi’s hockey series, those were the books that truly spoke to me. So when she announced that she was going to write a rockstar romance, I was all in. Needless to say, Rebellious Rockstar, felt a little different to me. From the writing to the characters, there was something about their relationship that I couldn’t connect. The idea itself is solid and the secondary characters made the book enjoyable to read. They both have background stories that we get a glimpse of in this book that I’ll be intrigued to find more about in the second book. Worth giving it shot if you like angsty rockstar romances. :) 

***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.***

My Rating: 3.5/5

Meet Gina Azzi: 

Hey Lovelies! 

Thanks so much for stopping by! I’m Gina Azzi, a book-obsessed, coffee-drinking, globetrotting, mama of three! I write steamy Contemporary and Sports Romance books with heartwarming happily-ever-afters. 

A Jersey girl at heart, I spent my twenties living and working abroad before settling down in Ontario, Canada with my family. When I’m not dreaming up storylines or writing all the words, you can find me hanging with my littles, attempting to bake, or planning my next adventure. 

Keep up with Gina Azzi and subscribe to their newsletter: https://ginaazzi.com/

To learn more about Gina Azzi & their books, visit here! Connect with Gina Azzi: amkusinovels@gmail.com

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🔖 REVIEW BLITZ 🔖 Bad Boy's Downfall by Gina Azzi

Bad Boy's Downfall by Gina Azzi

Release Date: March 2, 2023

Series: Tennessee Thunderbolts #6

Genres: Romance, Contemporary

Word on the ice: the only thing worse than knocking up your teammate’s sister is knocking up his daughter.

I have no business tangling up with Lola Daire. She’s a smart, idealistic, college senior planning to take on Silicon Valley. I’m an angry NHL player with a chip on my shoulder.

She smiles rainbows; I spit fire. She’s a daddy’s girl; I’m the last guy her father wants her to date.

A man with my past and demons will only corrupt a good woman. I know better than to give in to her playful flirting, but when Lola finds herself in a compromising situation, I break the rules to keep her safe.

We have nothing in common, save for the attraction we feel. We have no future, except for the moments that stretch between us. But our desire is insatiable. Our chemistry, off-the-charts.

One night turns into more and our casual understanding takes an unexpected turn.

I may be the cliché bad boy, but my downfall is the good girl with a baby on the way. 

AVAILABLE NOW

My Review:

Azzi concludes her Tennessee Thunderbolts Series with an explosive and addictive hockey romance in the Bad Boy’s Downfall. This emotional read is about new beginnings between two characters who might not have a lot in common on the outside, but they soon realize how similar they really are in a lot of ways bringing them closer than ever. A definite must-read!

As the youngest NHL player in the Tennessee Thunderbolts hockey team, River Patton, is just at the beginning stages of a very promising career. With that also comes the attention of woman around him, which gains him a bit of a playboy reputation with the team. Although his sole purpose is to have a successful career, River is not interested in commitment. Not after the way he grew up, there are demons in his life that still haunt him and River is afraid of not being good enough. 

That soon changes the minute he meets, Lola Daire, the daughter of one of his teammates. She is quirky, always reading and in her own head. She is not trying to impress anyone and he finds it incredibly attractive, which River hates. He knows that she is off-limits, but he can’t stop thinking about Lola. Until a turn of events have him ready to protect her at all costs, including claiming her as his. This changes their dynamic and even though Lola might be moving after graduation, it’s his chance to make a move on her before it’s too late.

As a college senior, Lola Daire, has done everything she could to get to where she is in hopes of getting a great job in Silicon Valley. With graduation approaching, she wants her last months as a student to be regret free. Lola is aware that someone like River Patton, would never give her a true chance, but she only has four months of being reckless and he is the perfect guy to do it with. But she got more than she bargained for the minute their relationship starts to turn into so much more. Then life decides to throw them a curveball and it’s about to change their lives forever.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Bad Boy’s Downfall, it was sizzling with chemistry from the beginning and it just kept getting better and better. Azzi truly delivers a love story full of ups and downs as the characters got to know each other as well. They share a lot in common than they actually think and it’s because of that, that they are able to lean on each other for support. I loved all the cameos that we got from previous characters, and the ending will leave you rooting for them. It’s the perfect ending to conclude the series with and I couldn’t recommend it enough. If you’re looking for a great sports romance than I would highly recommend checking this on out as well as any other books in the series. :)

***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.***

My Rating:

Meet Gina Azzi:

I’m Gina Azzi, a book-obsessed, coffee-drinking, globetrotting, mama of soon-to-be three! I write sweet with a dash of spicy New Adult and Contemporary Romance full of good men putting in work to win the hearts of even better women.

A total Jersey girl at heart, I struggle with insatiable wanderlust and currently reside in Ontario, Canada with my family.

When I’m not dreaming up storylines or writing all the words, you can find me hanging with my littles, attempting to bake, or planning my next adventure.

Connect with me on social media or at ginaazziauthor@gmail.com. I’d love to hear from you!

Happy Reading!

Xo,

Gina

https://ginaazzi.com/links/

Thanks for stopping by! 📚

🔖 REVIEW BLITZ 🔖 Hero’s Risk by Gina Azzi

Hero’s Risk by Gina Azzi

Release Date: January 5th 2023

Series: Tennessee Thunderbolts #5

Genres: Sports, Romance, Contemporary

Nine years ago, Celine Hernandez broke my heart. Eight years ago, she stomped on it for good measure. When Celine moved to LA after high school, I enlisted in the Marines.

After an honorable discharge, I’m home, in Tennessee, living out my dream as a professional hockey player. Now, she’s back in our hometown, filming a movie, and reminding me of a past I’ve tried to forget.

She’s got her name up in lights. She’s shining so bright; she’s acting like she never left. Celine’s everywhere I go — visiting my Gran, having coffee dates with my sister — and forcing me to remember a time when life wasn’t so harsh. When I was whole and thriving. Happy.

But I can’t trust those feelings anymore. I’m not the same man Celine remembers. I’ve lost too much, grieved too hard, and am too broken down for do-overs.

Is my ex-everything a risk my heart can handle? Or is our second chance more sacrifice than salvation? 

AVAILABLE NOW

My Review:

It’s all about second chances at love when it comes to Azzi’s fifth book in the Tennessee Thunderbolts Series with Hero’s Risk. This sports romance revolves around two characters who might seem to have it all on the outside, but yearn for something so much more and that is what ultimately brings them closer than ever.

For Beau Turner, achieving his childhood dream of playing in the NHL means everything to him. After being honorably discharged from the Marines, Beau worked hard to be able to play for the Tennessee Thunderbolts. It’s hockey that keeps him sane, even though he’s been having a hard time readjusting to civilian life. While in deployment, Beau’s life completely changed as he is no longer the person he used to be when he was in a relationship with Celine Hernandez. As childhood friends, she was there when his life turned upside down, becoming his everything in the process. Until Celine got the opportunity of a lifetime and moving away from the future he’d envisioned for them. It’s been 8 years since he last saw her and Beau’s quiet town becomes fully alive when news of the famous actress coming to film in a few days keeps going around. Beau has worked hard to keep his anxiety to a minimum, but Celine’s impending arrival has him recalling their past and he’s afraid of getting his heart hurt again.

While getting her big break starting in Midnight Moon, Celine Hernandez’s life was never the same. Having grown up in a small town in Tennessee, she always dreamed of moving out and starting her life somewhere else. Having Beau by her side would have been the icing on the cake, had they moved away together. But when she got the role of a lifetime, Celine couldn’t seem to say no to her opportunity to get out of the small town. Eight years later, she is a Hollywood starlet, who has achieved the stardom that comes with her job. She is back in Knoxville ready to film her latest movie and it’s a, also a chance to have a bit of normalcy back in her life. LA might be where she resides, but she longs for so much more, to be finally home. It doesn’t help that she hasn’t talked to Beau in a while, there is resentment coming from him, as if he doesn’t want her to be in his life again. But Beau has always been the overprotective one and when it comes to her safety, he is willing to be there no matter what. What starts off as small conversations, ends up to be so much more. It’s clear that he’s been through a lot throughout the years, and they’ve both changed so much that she realizes that she needs to fight for their future before it’s too late.

I loved the chemistry between the characters, Beau is warm and protective when it comes to Celine and that’s clear from the very start. Azzi dives into the world PTSD and how it impacts people’s lives. We get to see their journey to their happily-ever-after and it’s full of ups and downs. Although Celine is a famous actress who should be used to being in the spotlight, she craves her roots and going back to where she grew up puts a lot into perspective. They both are able to lean on each other and the ending is sweet and worked for them really well. I would highly recommend checking out the book as well as the rest of the series!

***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.***

My Rating: 4.5/5

Meet Gina Azzi:

I’m Gina Azzi, a book-obsessed, coffee-drinking, globetrotting, mama of soon-to-be three! I write sweet with a dash of spicy New Adult and Contemporary Romance full of good men putting in work to win the hearts of even better women.

A total Jersey girl at heart, I struggle with insatiable wanderlust and currently reside in Ontario, Canada with my family.

When I’m not dreaming up storylines or writing all the words, you can find me hanging with my littles, attempting to bake, or planning my next adventure. 

Connect with me on social media or at ginaazziauthor@gmail.com. I’d love to hear from you!

Happy Reading!

Xo,

Gina

https://ginaazzi.com/links/

Thanks for stopping by! 📚

🔖 REVIEW BLITZ 🔖 Playboy’s Reward by Gina Azzi

Playboy’s Reward by Gina Azzi

Release Date: October 27, 2022

Series: Tennessee Thunderbolts #4

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Sports

It was supposed to be one fake date…

When sexy-as-sin Harper Henderson launches profanities into the night sky from the balcony below mine, I’m forced to intervene. I may be a professional hockey player with a playboy reputation, but I’m also a good guy.

Charming and affable with unrivaled cheekbones and a lack of serious commitments (save for hockey), I make an impressive plus-one.

Volunteering to be Harper’s date to her dreaded ten-year high school reunion is easy. Pretending not to fall for her when our innocent kisses turn passionate is a little more challenging.

But when Harper returns the fake date favor and accompanies me to my parents’ anniversary party, everything changes. She garners my dad’s respect and effortlessly mingles with my childhood friends. She eases the familial pressure I drown under and makes me crave the things I used to laugh off.

Tangling up with Harper was supposed to be a fun way to pass the summer. So, why does it feel like she’s the real prize? The elusive, fleeting kind of real I’ve avoided for years?

And how can I prove that this playboy wants a different kind of reward? One that sounds a lot like commitment… 

AVAILABLE NOW

My Review:

As the fourth book in the Tennessee Thunderbolts Series, Azzi delivers a sizzling and entertaining read in Playboy’s Reward. This steamy sports romance will keep you reading until the very end.

At the beginning of the story we are introduced to Harper Henderson, it’s been a year since she moved to Tennessee, only a few minutes away from her childhood home. The very same home that she ran away from all those years ago after suffering the betrayal of two very important people in her life. There is still resentment for the town that saw her grow up and those around her, but after getting a job with the Coyote football franchise, Harper decided to move back. Now she is ready to move on with her life, but no matter what she does, there is still a sense of loneliness that she can’t shake. Then everything changes when she gets RSVP’d for her high-school reunion and when her incredibly good looking neighbor offers to be her plus-one. It’s was only supposed to be for one night, but being with Damien throws her off and Harper finds herself growing feelings for her hockey player neighbor that could end up breaking her heart.

As an NHL player for the Tennessee Thunderbolts, Damien Barnes, has the reputation of being a playboy. Coming from old money has also attracted the attention of many women, but that exactly what Damien has managed to avoid the most, drama. When his downstairs neighbor tells him about her upcoming high-school reunion and why she doesn’t want to go, he immediately offers to be her plus-one. Although they both agree to start a fake relationship, Damien knows that he doesn’t do relationships, but being around Harper has him questioning himself. He has been hurt in the past and he is afraid of how she is going to react to his world. It would take his parents’ anniversary to put that to the test.

I loved reading a Playboy’s Reward, the characters were charismatic and the story itself was entertaining to read. We have two characters who have been hurt in the past and they have to learn to trust in each other in order to get a shot at a future together. It’s through ups and downs that they are able to lean on each other and grow the community that they needed. I loved the ending, I would highly recommend checking out the story and the rest of the series! :)

***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.***

My Rating: 4.5/5

Meet Gina Azzi:

I’m Gina Azzi, a book-obsessed, coffee-drinking, globetrotting, mama of soon-to-be three! I write sweet with a dash of spicy New Adult and Contemporary Romance full of good men putting in work to win the hearts of even better women.

A total Jersey girl at heart, I struggle with insatiable wanderlust and currently reside in Ontario, Canada with my family.

When I’m not dreaming up storylines or writing all the words, you can find me hanging with my littles, attempting to bake, or planning my next adventure.

Connect with me on social media or at ginaazziauthor@gmail.com. I’d love to hear from you!

Happy Reading!

Xo,

Gina 

Thanks for stopping by! 📚

🔖 REVIEW BLITZ 🔖 Rookie's Regret by Gina Azzi

Rookie's Regret by Gina Azzi 

Release Date: September 8, 2022

Series: Tennessee Thunderbolts #3

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Sports

Lioness. That’s the first word that comes to mind when I see the brilliant redhead selling cupcakes at the hockey arena.

With the soul of an artist and the spirit of a nomad, Bea Turner is gorgeous, quirky, and refreshing.

She’s also my teammate’s little sister.

As the Tennessee Thunderbolts' Rookie, I should steer clear. I’m here to play hockey and provide much-needed financial security for my family. To do that, I need to avoid distractions.

Bea doesn’t just distract me; she flips my world upside down.

One bad joke has me pursuing her. One date and I crave more. Calling her mine? Well, now I’m dreaming of a future.

The life of a hockey player — trades, travel, uncertainty — isn’t for the heart of a creative. Bea desires adventure and possibility, not early morning skates and strict exercise regimens.

When I’m thrust into a situation at odds with Bea’s dream career, I know I can’t hold her back.

If we’re meant to be, we’ll make it work. But what if we’re not?

What if my greatest regret is letting my lioness go? 

AVAILABLE NOW

My Review:

In Rookie’s Regret, the third book in the Tennessee Thunderbolts, Azzi delivers a relatable and swoon worthy sports romance that will leave you wanting for more!

At the beginning of the story we are introduced to Beatrice “Bea” Turner, who after receiving an art degree in Nashville, she is moving back home to take care of her grandmother. With the vision to start her own pottery business, her brother Beau who happens to play for the Tennessee Thunderbolts, is able to get her a job selling cupcakes at the arena. Beau quickly warns her to not get tangled up with a hockey player, but she tells him that no one is going to be interested in a quirky person like herself. She would usually be covered in clay and dust, it’s her happy place and what keeps her centered. There are hopes and dreams that Bea has for herself, but her family is her priority so coming back home is what she feels that she need to focus on now.

Until one day she meets Cole Philips, the minute he walks up to the Primrose Sweets pop-up stand, Bea is immediately taken by him. He is funny and telling her jokes that make him stand to her. There is something genuine about him that Bea likes and quickly finds herself telling him all about her. Yet, things change the minute she finds out that he is actually a Thunderbolt player. Their chemistry keeps pulling them together so much so that they decide to give their relationship a shot. But it’s Cole’s inability to communicate with her that starts to become an issue and when she gets the opportunity of a lifetime, Bea needs to decide if continuing a relationship is worth it or not.

For Cole Philips, playing for the Tennessee Thunderbolts has allowed him to be able to help his family financially. After losing his parents, it was his uncle who raised him and Cole wants to be able to provide for his uncle and cousin. Hockey became his world growing up and it gave him an outlet to be free and taught him to never lose focus. It’s for that reason that he has never been a romantic relationship before and avoids confrontations at all costs. But the gorgeous curly redhead selling cupcakes has his attention right away. He is attracted to her and her personality. Although he has a strict routine, Cole makes it his mission to win her over even if it means stopping by the pop-up everyday to buy a cupcake from her. Which it doesn’t take long, it’s easy to talk to Bea, they have a lot in common. Yet, the more he talks to her, the more Cole wants to start a future with her. Hockey has always been at the top of his priority list and he has to learn how to let Bea into his world before it’s too late.

I throughly enjoyed reading Rookie’s Regret, Azzi does a great job telling a relatable story with lovable characters. It’s evident that they both have a lot to learn, they are still finding their way and once they are able to trust each other, they are able to lean on one another after that. We get some cameos from previous characters in past books as well. I really loved all the jokes and how the story wraps up at the end. It fit the characters so well and there is hope for them to start a future together. I would highly recommend checking out this story and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series! :)

***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.***

My Rating: 4.5/5

Meet Gina Azzi:

I’m Gina Azzi, a book-obsessed, coffee-drinking, globetrotting, mama of soon-to-be three! I write sweet with a dash of spicy New Adult and Contemporary Romance full of good men putting in work to win the hearts of even better women.

A total Jersey girl at heart, I struggle with insatiable wanderlust and currently reside in Ontario, Canada with my family.

When I’m not dreaming up storylines or writing all the words, you can find me hanging with my littles, attempting to bake, or planning my next adventure.

Connect with me on social media or at ginaazziauthor@gmail.com. I’d love to hear from you!

Happy Reading!

Xo,

Gina 

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🔖 REVIEW BLITZ 🔖 Brawler's Weakness by Gina Azzi

Brawler's Weakness by Gina Azzi

Release Date: July 7th 2022

Series: Tennessee Thunderbolts #2

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Sports

There’s only one woman I truly care about: my daughter. Until Maisy Stratford flounces into the front office of the Tennessee Thunderbolts with a heartfelt smile and a tray of baked goods.

As the Bolts’ newest hire, Maisy is optimistic, enthusiastic, and a goddess at manifestation.

Everything I’m not.

Known as Brawler, I’m a gruff, quiet, rough-around-the-edges, NHL defenseman. I haven’t dated in decades. I’ve never been married and my daughter’s a twenty-one-year-old mischief maker. I don’t know how to talk about feelings or place my trust in the hands of a woman. Even one with a heart of gold.

With my daughter Lola egging me on, I finally ask Maisy out.

But I don’t want to be her rebound; I want to be her forever. Even if I don’t know how to tell her that. Even if she’s not ready for me.

If I’m being honest, I’m not ready for her either. 

AVAILABLE NOW

My Review:

Azzi delivers a heartwarming and swoon worthy second chance romance in Brawler’s Weakness, the second book in the Tennessee Thunderbolts Series.

At the beginning of the story we are introduced to Maisy Stratford who is ready to start her new job in human resources with the Tennessee Thunderbolts hockey team. After the constant belittling of her intelligence and comments about her weight at her previous job, Maisy decided to part ways and start a new chapter in her life. Yet, it’s on her way to work that her boyfriend breaks up with her over text and a shocked Maisy bumps into another hockey player, dropping the cupcakes that she had baked for her new office in the process. She is humiliated and that’s exactly when a familiar hockey player, Axel Daire, gets her out of the mess.

Having met through mutual friends before, she has always seen Axel as a giant of man. He is gruff and growly. But it’s the compassion in his eyes that almost breaks her and she is touched when he kindly gets a dress that she’s always wanted to get. All her life, Maisy had to endure comments from her mom or men of being too much, but not in the right way. Axel looks at her differently, he is not there to judge and it’s for the first time that Maisy truly feels cared for in her life. It’s evident that she likes being around Axel, but she is ready to put herself first and is not sure if she is ready to start a new relationship right away.

As the defenseman for the Tennessee Thunderbolts, Axel Daire doesn’t date or has serious relationships as his first priority is being a dad. Until he finds out that Maisy is newly single and for the first time lets himself think about the possibilities between them. The need to protect Maisy is strong and the more time they spend together, the more he starts to trust her with his past. He can sense that Maisy is starting to feel the same way, yet there is a part of him that is hesitant to fully integrate her into his private space and doesn’t know what to do. He has been told that he deserves to be happy and Maisy truly makes him feel that way, but he just hopes he can convince her to give their relationship a shot before it’s too late.

I throughly enjoyed reading Brawler’s Weakness, I loved the dynamic between the main characters. Axel is truly kind and overprotective when it comes to Maisy. He sees her for who she is and that’s something that she likes about him. Axel is rusty when it comes to dating and he doesn’t want to mess with Maisy, but he is putting a lot of pressure on himself in the process. Whereas Maisy is newly single and ready to start a fresh, not thinking that she would like having Axel around a lot more than she thought she would. We get cameos from other characters and we also get to see the relationship that Axel has with his daughter. In the end they both have lean on each other, learn to communicate as well as trust in one another if they want a shot at a happily-ever-after. I would highly recommend checking out this book and I cannot wait to read what Azzi has in store for us in the next book in the series! :)

***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.***

My Rating:

Meet Gina Azzi:

I’m Gina Azzi, a book-obsessed, coffee-drinking, globetrotting, mama of soon-to-be three! I write sweet with a dash of spicy New Adult and Contemporary Romance full of good men putting in work to win the hearts of even better women.

A total Jersey girl at heart, I struggle with insatiable wanderlust and currently reside in Ontario, Canada with my family.

When I’m not dreaming up storylines or writing all the words, you can find me hanging with my littles, attempting to bake, or planning my next adventure.

Connect with me on social media or at ginaazziauthor@gmail.com. I’d love to hear from you!

Happy Reading!

Xo,

Gina

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🔖 REVIEW BLITZ 🔖 Hot Shot’s Mistake by Gina Azzi

Hot Shot's Mistake by Gina Azzi

Release Date: May 12th 2022

Series: Tennessee Thunderbolts #1

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Sports

Tangling up with my new physical therapist, Mila Lewis, is a mistake. One I can’t seem to stop making.

When I sign with the Tennessee Thunderbolts, I have two goals: prove my injury hasn’t benched my career and get back to New York.

But then, I meet Mila, the enigmatic therapist tasked with rehabbing my shoulder.

With her long ponytail, professional demeanor, and girl-next-door look, Mila is nothing like my usual type.

She’s better—a good girl with sad eyes and a tragic past our small-town loves to dissect.

With the entire town up in her business, our budding connection is far from simple. I’m not staying, and Mila will never leave.

Deep down, I know I should walk away and let her find the happily-ever-after she deserves.

But I can’t. Not without showing her that it could be me.

And that may be the biggest mistake of all. 

AVAILABLE NOW

My Review:

Hot Shot’s Mistake is the first book in Azzi’s newest Tennessee Thunderbolts Series. This emotional small town sports romance is about second chances and new beginnings that will leave you rooting for the characters until the very end.

At the beginning of the story we are introduced to Devon Hardt, a hockey player who had been in New York playing for the Sharks until an injury got him traded to Tennessee. The team is currently going through a massive rebuild and he will be the keystone player for the Tennessee Thunderbolts. But moving from a big city like New York to the small town of Knoxville will take some getting used to and Devon doesn’t know if he is going to stay there for that long. Devon wants to play for a team who is already established and not starting out. So it’s his goal to go back to New York and prove to them that he is still the best at what he does. Until he meets the team’s newest physical therapist that his whole life takes an unexpected turn. He can see that Mila has been hurt in the past and there is something about her that keeps Devon drawn to her from the minute they meet. The more time they spend together, the more Devon starts to understand her past and wants to protect her at all costs. She might just be the one to give him a reason to stay and start a future together.

For Mila Lewis living in a small town has its perks as everyone knows everyone and sometimes that’s it’s a downside as well. The whole town has seen her grown up and was rooting for her to end up with its golden football player. But Mila got hurt in the process and although that happened months ago, the town still hasn’t moved on. Making it difficult for Mila to be able to move on from her past, so when she got the job with the Tennessee Thunderbolts, she knew that it was time to start the next chapter in her life. As the team’s physical therapist, Mila knows that she is going to be working with the team’s newest team player, Devon Hardt. But it’s an unexpected encounter that she has with him that makes her see that Devon is a player with a messed up shoulder and a big ego. He also reminds her of her ex and that’s not something Mila is willing to repeat. Yet, Devon is making it difficult to not say no to a shot with him and she is afraid of getting hurt again.

I really enjoyed reading Hot Shot’s Mistake, the story was sweet and steamy. They are about to start new chapters in their lives, but fate had another plan and brought them together. It’s in the process that Mila is able to let go of her past and is able to fully trust again. On the other hand, Devon didn’t think that he would feel strongly for Mila right away. He wants to earn her trust and he gets to form friendships with his new teammates. The ending was a little bit unexpected, but it worked out for them really well. I would highly recommend checking it out and I cannot wait to read the next in the series! :)

***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.***

My Rating:

Meet Gina Azzi:

I’m Gina Azzi, a book-obsessed, coffee-drinking, globetrotting, mama of soon-to-be three! I write sweet with a dash of spicy New Adult and Contemporary Romance full of good men putting in work to win the hearts of even better women.

A total Jersey girl at heart, I struggle with insatiable wanderlust and currently reside in Ontario, Canada with my family.

When I’m not dreaming up storylines or writing all the words, you can find me hanging with my littles, attempting to bake, or planning my next adventure.

Connect with me on social media or at ginaazziauthor@gmail.com. I’d love to hear from you!

Happy Reading!

Xo,

Gina 

Website, Newsletter, Facebook, Reader Group, Twitter, Instagram, BookBub, Goodreads, Amazon

Thanks for stopping by! 📚

🔖 REVIEW BLITZ 🔖 The Score Keeper by Gina Azzi

The Score Keeper by Gina Azzi 

Relese Date: March 3rd 2022

Series: Boston Hawks Hockey #9

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Sports

Boston Hawks owner Scott Reland is my father’s biggest rival and the last man who should catch my eye. But when he does, I don’t look away.

We’ve circled each other for years, two outliers in a small club of NHL owners. We know the rules, manage similar pressures, and understand that this lifestyle — hockey over everything — isn’t for everyone.

Which is why I want out.

To prove to my father that I have a future beyond the New York Sharks, I score one for me and open a bakery in Boston, the city that reveres Scott.

It isn’t long until the dynamic and perceptive Hawk pursues me. And I’m entirely unprepared to be swept off my feet, cared for and supported after so many years on my own. Scott easily draws me back into the hockey life I thought I didn’t want.

But can our relationship survive the demands of this industry? Or will I always be keeping score, second to the game that dictates everything? 

Amazon, Apple, Nook, Kobo, Google Play

My Review:

Azzi concludes her Boston Hawks Hockey Series with The Score Keeper. This steamy sports romance between two hockey powerhouses will leave you wanting for more.

At forty-four-years old, Scott Reland has successfully made a name for himself and for his team, the Boston Hawks. As the owner of the team, he has also accumulated a lot of wealth and the attention of women who have very high expectations. It’s his money all they see and that’s not something he is interested in at his age. For Scott hockey is his life, even though that wasn’t how he was raised at the beginning. But it grew to something else the minute he played in high school and never looked back. He longs to experience something deeper with someone else and he knows exactly who is right for him. Having met over the years, Scott has always had an eye for Noelle DiSanto. They both understand the world of hockey and even though her dad is his biggest rival, Scott still has a soft spot for Noelle. Yet, it’s her desire to distance herself from hockey after seeing how consuming it is that has him question if she’ll ever be truly part of his world. They are made for each other and he willing to do anything to prove that to her.

As the heiress to the New York Sharks franchise, Noelle DiSanto has grown up knowing that she will one day take over her dad’s hockey empire. But that’s not something that she wants. After chasing her dream and learning the art of patisserie, Noelle managed to open Primrose Sweets as her way of honoring the legacy that her mom left behind. While her dad was not trilled about it, she didn’t let that stop her from opening her first bakery. If anything it gave her the need to keep expanding to show her dad that her bakery can be successful. So when Noelle gets to decide where to open next, Boston comes up. That’s exactly where Scott Reland also resides. Her dad has never liked Scott, but he took her breath away the minute they met and is over the years that they develop a connection. Then everything changes when he offers her the opportunity to open up a pop-up shot at his arena and Noelle doesn’t know how her dad is going to react if he finds out. She has worked so hard to not be so involved when it comes to hockey, yet being in Scott’s world has her question what she truly wants.

I really enjoyed reading The Score Keeper! It felt more mature to me especially with Scott being older. He has been through so much and has made the Boston Hawks a very successful team from the ground up. He is protective over Noelle right away and he wants to show that his world is different from how she grew up. On the other hand, not having her mom with her has made it difficult of Noelle’s dad to understand that running a hockey team is not for her. Her dad has supported her in his way and it’s difficult for her to tell him what she truly wants without upsetting him. The chemistry is what completely did it for me, it’s instant and steamy! I loved the ending, it fit them very well. I do wish the author could have given us more insight on some details, but it still works out in the end. I would still highly recommend it. I cannot wait to read what other works Gina Azzi comes up with next! :)

***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own***

My Rating:

Meet Gina Azzi:

I’m Gina Azzi, a book-obsessed, coffee-drinking, globetrotting, mama of soon-to-be three! I write sweet with a dash of spicy New Adult and Contemporary Romance full of good men putting in work to win the hearts of even better women.

A total Jersey girl at heart, I struggle with insatiable wanderlust and currently reside in Ontario, Canada with my family.

When I’m not dreaming up storylines or writing all the words, you can find me hanging with my littles, attempting to bake, or planning my next adventure.

Connect with me on social media or at ginaazziauthor@gmail.com. I’d love to hear from you!

Happy Reading!

Xo,

Gina

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Thanks for stopping by! 📚

🔖 REVIEW BLITZ 🔖 The Hustler by Gina Azzi

The Hustler by Gina Azzi 

Release Date: January 6th 2022

Series: Boston Hawks Hockey #8

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Sports

Theodore Edward Sims was supposed to be my hot summer hook-up, a stranger I slept with in Hawaii. Now, he's my stepbrother's new hockey teammate.

When we met, Theo was a sexy surfer in Maui, riding waves by day and rocking my world at night. After being played for a fool by my ex-fiancé, Theo proved to be a source of instant gratification.

He was refreshingly honest, engaging, and incredibly charming. Theo built me up when it felt like my world was crumbling down.

Turns out, he's just like my ex. A liar.

To avoid the gossip of my failed engagement, I hightail it to Boston, where I'm forced to cross paths with a new version of Theo, aka Eddie Sims, Boston Hawks right wing. Here, he isn't the well-connected, alluring surfer but a determined, angry hockey hunk with something to prove. Especially to me.

Except I've written him off. Once a liar, always a liar.

But Theo isn't backing down. Instead, he's hustling for my forgiveness. If I give him another chance, will he live up to his apologies? Or am I just lying to myself? 

Amazon, Nook

My Review:

Gina Azzi delivers a redeeming and heartfelt sports romance in The Hustler, the eight book in the Boston Hawks Hockey Series. This emotional story is about second chance at love and new beginnings that will leave you rooting for the characters until the very end.

For twenty-four year old, Sofia Carpenter, making the big move to Maui was supposed to be the start of the rest of her life. But soon her engagement ends after her fiancé finds out more about her past. On top of that working as an event planner for the Servinos and Lely Prive Resort also ends, but not before she delivers on her last event. A high profile wedding that she was personally asked to oversee, but little did she know that it would ultimately end up changing her life forever. Then she sees a gorgeous stranger surfing, but never imagined herself meeting him in person. Until Sofia finds out that he is the groom’s brother and it’s his ability to listen without judgment is what draws her to him even more. Their one night together didn’t end the way they had planned as she finds out who he really is and vows to not put her heart as stake again. It would take months later for them to bump into each other again and for Theo to want to fight for what they had in Maui.

As a hockey player for the Boston Hawks, Theodore Edward Lawrence “Eddie Sims,” is used to attracting all kinds of attention. But for the last season, he has been struggling to keep his reputation intact. So his older brother’s wedding in Maui comes at the right time as it gives him an opportunity to get away from the spotlight. Yet, nothing could have prepared him when he sees Sofia for the first time. He is attracted to her right away, but there is something underneath the brave face that she puts when he meets her that calls to him. Her vulnerability and openness is refreshing to him and Theo doesn’t want to let her go. Sofia is not like anyone he’s ever met and holding onto her for just a little longer is what he wants, until she finds out the truth that he kept from her. Finding out that she is going to be closer to him than he thought is what makes Theo want to fight for her even more.

I absolutely loved reading The Hustler! We have two characters who have been given a second chance and it’s when they find each other that their relationship is truly explosive. Sofia has been through so much growing up and it’s though her experiences that she wants be better as well as be able to help those around her. On the other hand, Theo’s upbringing left him question people’s motives when it came to his family. He comes a long way when he meets Sofia. She gives him a reason to want to do better and learn to trust again. But just when you know where the story is going there is an unexpected plot twist that I didn't see coming at the end. All in all, this was such an emotional story filled with hope and a sweet ending to keep you wanting for more. I would highly recommend checking it out! :)

***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own***

My Rating:

Meet Gina Azzi:

I’m Gina Azzi, a book-obsessed, coffee-drinking, globetrotting, mama of soon-to-be three! I write sweet with a dash of spicy New Adult and Contemporary Romance full of good men putting in work to win the hearts of even better women.

A total Jersey girl at heart, I struggle with insatiable wanderlust and currently reside in Ontario, Canada with my family.

When I’m not dreaming up storylines or writing all the words, you can find me hanging with my littles, attempting to bake, or planning my next adventure.

Connect with me on social media or at ginaazziauthor@gmail.com. I’d love to hear from you!

Happy Reading!

Xo,

Gina 

Website, Newsletter, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, BookBub, Goodreads, Amazon

Thanks for stopping by! 📚