Hard Hitter by Sarina Bowen

Hard Hitter (Brooklyn Bruisers, #2)

by Sarina Bowen

From the USA Today bestselling author of Rookie Move comes the second novel in the series that’s hot enough to melt the ice.
 
He’s a fighter in the rink, but he’s about to learn that playing nice can help you score...
 
As team captain and enforcer, Patrick O'Doul puts the bruise in the Brooklyn Bruisers. But after years of hard hits, O'Doul is feeling the burn, both physically and mentally. He conceals his pain from his coach and trainers, but when his chronic hip injury becomes too obvious to ignore, they send him for sessions with the team’s massage therapist.
 
After breaking up with her long-term boyfriend, Ari Bettini is in need of peace of mind. For now, she’s decided to focus on her work: rehabilitating the Bruisers’ MVP. O'Doul is easy on the eyes, but his reaction to her touch is ice cold. Ari is determined to help O'Doul heal, but as the tension between them turns red hot, they both learn that a little TLC does the body good...

Reviewed by whisperingchapters on

4 of 5 stars

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This review was originally posted on Latte Nights Reviews.


For some reason, I was a little eh on reading Patrick's story. Having met him on Rookie Move, I wasn't too sold on the guy. I'm glad I gave him a chance because I totally loved him!

Patrick is a very grumpy hero. He has given so much of himself to hockey and because of it, he needs a therapist to help him with his body. But Patrick has a past with major baggage and he doesn't want anyone touching him or getting close to him, not even Ari.

Wanting Ari wasn’t like any of those other wants. It was far more terrifying.

Ari also comes with major baggage. Her ex won't leave her alone and is always putting her in danger. Because of him, she's not ready to date. She wants to take a break from men and just focus on herself. But Patrick is completely different from her ex. He makes her feel alive again and the chemistry between them is unreal! Plus, Patrick is so very attentive and caring when it comes to Ari. Who knew a man with such tough exterior could be a gentle sweetheart?

"I've got it bad. It might take me years to convince you I’m a good guy, but I'll never stop trying."

Ari irritated me at times. It's obvious Patrick won't play her and I get she wants a break from dating, but she still sees Patrick. I didn't like the back and forth she kept doing. I wished she had put on her big girl panties on and take Patrick from the beginning. Patrick treats her so beautifully, it had my heart melting. Hell, I would swoon every time he would call her "sweetheart".

"You are priceless. I hope you know that."

I totally loved the hockey team's dynamic! They are a bunch of hilarious men that I totally adored. I love how they are there for one another, even when it comes to dating or gifting advice. Each player is different, but together they make a wonderful team and friendship.

Overall, Hard Hitter is another wonderful addition to the Brooklyn Bruisers series! It has strong characters, a swoony romance, and a grumpy hero with a heart of gold!

I received an ARC from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.This review was originally posted on Latte Nights Reviews.


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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 4 December, 2016: Finished reading
  • 4 December, 2016: Reviewed