What do you think?
Rate this book
Kelly Brothers #2
Breakaway Hearts
Hockey star Ben Kelly has retreated to his mountain cabin in the ski town of Cascade, BC, to recuperate from a season-ending knee injury and contemplate his future in the NHL. He never expects to run into the one woman who got away. Nine years may have passed, but nothing has dulled the explosive chemistry between them. Now he wants more than just one night.
Hailey Eriksson had Olympic-sized dreams until an accidental pregnancy from a one-night stand halted her ambitions. Her life was shattered when her son died. Nothing will keep her from fulfilling her promise to him to make the Olympic team, especially not the charming Ben Kelly. Unfortunately, he’s out to sweep her off her feet this time, and she finds him harder and harder to resist with each passionate kiss. But when he learns about the child he never knew, will their rekindled romance be on thin ice?
Hailey Eriksson had Olympic-sized dreams until an accidental pregnancy from a one-night stand halted her ambitions. Her life was shattered when her son died. Nothing will keep her from fulfilling her promise to him to make the Olympic team, especially not the charming Ben Kelly. Unfortunately, he’s out to sweep her off her feet this time, and she finds him harder and harder to resist with each passionate kiss. But when he learns about the child he never knew, will their rekindled romance be on thin ice?
198 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2013
About the author
Crista McHugh
62 books939 followersCrista McHugh is a NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY BESTSELLING author of fantasy and romance with heroines who are smart, sexy, and anything but ordinary.
She also writes fantasy with less kissing and a lot more action as C. A. McHugh.
She currently lives in the Tesla-filled suburbs of Seattle with her husband and two children, maintaining her alter ego of mild-mannered physician on the weekends.
She also writes fantasy with less kissing and a lot more action as C. A. McHugh.
She currently lives in the Tesla-filled suburbs of Seattle with her husband and two children, maintaining her alter ego of mild-mannered physician on the weekends.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
March 3, 2014
3 'Just OK' Stars
BREAKAWAY HEARTS was a fun sports romance with some sexy moments and a heartfelt storyline about a son the hero would never know, but it didn't blow me away.
As light-and-fluffy sports romances go this was a fun read, but don't look for much depth in the romance or expect a great deal of character development. The romance zooms at an unrealistic speed, making it hard for me to believe these characters could feel so deeply for each other given how little time together they spend. Their emotional highs and lows baffled me, but I just went with the flow and suspended by disbelief to get to the end of this story. And it helped.
On the plus side, the storyline regarding hockey and her trying out for the Olympics was interesting, and I loved the jokes about the meatloaf dinner at the family diner.
I wish I could tell you I enjoyed it more than I did, as I really liked this authors previous book The Tears of Elios. I was hoping for more of that rich storytelling with fascinating characters, but this book was clearly written for a different kind of audience.
ARC provided through Netgalley.com
March 5, 2015
*ACR copy in exchange for an honest review *
"And now that he'd been given one with her,he wasn't about to let her slip through his grasp."
Breaking hearts by Crista McHugh is an light sweet chic-lite read with just a touch of angst to it.Just as the summary read ,this book was rather a touch to predictable.Other than the fire burning chemistry between both the leads...there really was much of anything else in the story...but then again ,the book WAS just around 140 pages...so i guess i shouldn't have expect too much.
Now for THAT QUESTION....
Would i recommend this to friends.....?
ahhhhhh.....*No comment*
Would i read this again ?
Ummmmmm.......
How sad...
Adios my lovlies....and happy reading ! ♥
"And now that he'd been given one with her,he wasn't about to let her slip through his grasp."
Breaking hearts by Crista McHugh is an light sweet chic-lite read with just a touch of angst to it.Just as the summary read ,this book was rather a touch to predictable.Other than the fire burning chemistry between both the leads...there really was much of anything else in the story...but then again ,the book WAS just around 140 pages...so i guess i shouldn't have expect too much.
Now for THAT QUESTION....
Would i recommend this to friends.....?
ahhhhhh.....*No comment*
Would i read this again ?
Ummmmmm.......
How sad...
Adios my lovlies....and happy reading ! ♥
January 23, 2014
Received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Oh wow, I though I loved the first book in the series but that was nothing compared to this. Ben/Hailey <3 <3 <3. Their chemistry was incredibly and I loved how Hailey helped Ben through his fear of getting back onto the ice. And bold move with the Zach's story - so bittersweet.
Oh wow, I though I loved the first book in the series but that was nothing compared to this. Ben/Hailey <3 <3 <3. Their chemistry was incredibly and I loved how Hailey helped Ben through his fear of getting back onto the ice. And bold move with the Zach's story - so bittersweet.
February 19, 2014
With the Olympics currently underway Breakaway Hearts ends up being a very timely read, though not ground breaking, about one woman's promise to her dying son to be on the woman's Olympic hockey team and the one-night stand from her past who's begging for just one more chance. With so many lies through omission in the way will they ever make their way to a HEA and the dreams that have sustained Hailey the last few years?
This was a heartwarming, and at times heartbreaking, romance that featured a wonderfully romantic and charming hero and a misunderstood, rough-around-the-edges heroine whose one-night stand years ago has had a lasting impact on them both in very different ways. Hailey used to be the wild child who grasped what she wanted wholeheartedly and who found a deep connection and life-altering sexual encounter with the charming hockey rookie Ben. She ran away from the promise of that night as she was focused on her hockey goals but in the intervening years, when she needed him most, he wasn't there which has hardened her heart and made her leery of embracing love now. She's a strong-willed woman who can go toe to toe with any man and who's been hiding from relationships that might keep her from the promise she once made. With her unerringly focused goal of making the women's Olympic hockey team she'll accept any help, including from the unnervingly charming injured hockey player who never forgot her and wants her again.
Ben is an immensely appealing hero who's extremely romantic and willing to do whatever it takes to win Hailey over. He never knew what happened to Hailey after she left him in the middle of the night all those years ago but he never forgot her. He senses her fears and hesitation in starting a relationship now though and is willing to go slowly. Throughout their burgeoning relationship he makes many subtle gestures to win her over that made him very endearing. Once past truths come to life he's understandably hurt but ultimately is the one to make a grand romantic gesture to create a HEA that left a warm and fuzzy feeling inside me. Long after the final page was turned I'm still dreaming of his charming and sexy nature.
This story moved at a steady and immensely fulfilling pace. The reignited romance between Ben and Hailey was believable if a bit predictable in the roadblocks that arose between them. They're both strong-willed which made watching their verbal battle of the sexes immensely entertaining and their sexual interludes super steamy. I enjoyed the sense of family surrounding both characters that made for heartwarmingly supportive scenes when each character needed help most. Though this is the second book in the Kelly Brothers series I had no trouble reading it on its own and look forward to the next installment as I'm tempted by the brief glimpse of Ben's brothers and their stories yet to tell.
This was a heartwarming, and at times heartbreaking, romance that featured a wonderfully romantic and charming hero and a misunderstood, rough-around-the-edges heroine whose one-night stand years ago has had a lasting impact on them both in very different ways. Hailey used to be the wild child who grasped what she wanted wholeheartedly and who found a deep connection and life-altering sexual encounter with the charming hockey rookie Ben. She ran away from the promise of that night as she was focused on her hockey goals but in the intervening years, when she needed him most, he wasn't there which has hardened her heart and made her leery of embracing love now. She's a strong-willed woman who can go toe to toe with any man and who's been hiding from relationships that might keep her from the promise she once made. With her unerringly focused goal of making the women's Olympic hockey team she'll accept any help, including from the unnervingly charming injured hockey player who never forgot her and wants her again.
Ben is an immensely appealing hero who's extremely romantic and willing to do whatever it takes to win Hailey over. He never knew what happened to Hailey after she left him in the middle of the night all those years ago but he never forgot her. He senses her fears and hesitation in starting a relationship now though and is willing to go slowly. Throughout their burgeoning relationship he makes many subtle gestures to win her over that made him very endearing. Once past truths come to life he's understandably hurt but ultimately is the one to make a grand romantic gesture to create a HEA that left a warm and fuzzy feeling inside me. Long after the final page was turned I'm still dreaming of his charming and sexy nature.
This story moved at a steady and immensely fulfilling pace. The reignited romance between Ben and Hailey was believable if a bit predictable in the roadblocks that arose between them. They're both strong-willed which made watching their verbal battle of the sexes immensely entertaining and their sexual interludes super steamy. I enjoyed the sense of family surrounding both characters that made for heartwarmingly supportive scenes when each character needed help most. Though this is the second book in the Kelly Brothers series I had no trouble reading it on its own and look forward to the next installment as I'm tempted by the brief glimpse of Ben's brothers and their stories yet to tell.
July 6, 2014
3 - Sometimes life was about second chances. Stars.
Book Two in the Kelly Brothers series is definitely as enjoyable as book one. I love a second chance romance, and although Ben and Hailey have the odds stacked against them their romance and the rebuilding of their relationship was enjoyable to read.
Was there enough between them to turn this into forever?
There is a big secret in this story, and the reader and everyone in the book but Ben and his family know about it. I wanted him to find out sooner if I am honest, and I think he got a pretty raw deal when it was revealed. But on the whole it didn't detract from what was another really likeable and sexy Kelly brother getting his HEA.
This was a book, and is a series that I am enjoying immensely, the interaction with the rest of the Kelly brothers and the promise of what we can expect in future books keeps the reader intrigued, and I am expecting more of the same from Crista in the remaining brothers books.
Book Two in the Kelly Brothers series is definitely as enjoyable as book one. I love a second chance romance, and although Ben and Hailey have the odds stacked against them their romance and the rebuilding of their relationship was enjoyable to read.
Was there enough between them to turn this into forever?
There is a big secret in this story, and the reader and everyone in the book but Ben and his family know about it. I wanted him to find out sooner if I am honest, and I think he got a pretty raw deal when it was revealed. But on the whole it didn't detract from what was another really likeable and sexy Kelly brother getting his HEA.
This was a book, and is a series that I am enjoying immensely, the interaction with the rest of the Kelly brothers and the promise of what we can expect in future books keeps the reader intrigued, and I am expecting more of the same from Crista in the remaining brothers books.
December 31, 2013
Thoroughly enjoyed it and i can't wait for the rest of the series :)
(Now i have to go back and read the first book; The Sweetest Seduction which i also received as an ARC but haven't read yet!!)
*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Crista McHugh*
(Now i have to go back and read the first book; The Sweetest Seduction which i also received as an ARC but haven't read yet!!)
*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Crista McHugh*
March 5, 2016
This book is all about second chances...
Ben and Hailey had a one night stand and never spoke to each other again until 9 years later when they finally run in to each other again. The attraction is still there but Hailey tries to fight it as she is hiding a huge secret from Ben.
If you are looking for a heartwarming romance then I would definitely suggest this book.
Ben and Hailey had a one night stand and never spoke to each other again until 9 years later when they finally run in to each other again. The attraction is still there but Hailey tries to fight it as she is hiding a huge secret from Ben.
If you are looking for a heartwarming romance then I would definitely suggest this book.
January 22, 2014
Breakaway Hearts is McHugh's second book in the Kelly Brother's series. In this story we move on to Ben, the hockey player. He had a hot night of passion and an unexpected connection to a blue haired beauty when he was only 19, but she got away before he could ever get her last name let alone her number. Now 9 years has gone by and so much has changed. Ben, even though recovering from a recent knee injury, is still considered one of the best goalies in the NHL. Imagine his surprise when he comes across the girl he never forgot.
Hailey works for her father in his bar while really working on her ultimate goal--making the Canadian Women's Hockey team. She has to do it, not only for herself but also because of her promise to Zach, her little boy who died the year before. Her plans almost get derailed by the one guy who changed her life so many years before. She despises him because she feels he denied her and because he never acknowledged their son.
As we learn from the story things are not always what they seem and because of that Hailey and Ben get a second shot. We quickly move through their story and it is great how much they inspire each other to move on with their goals. Things are great, but so much has never been said and when Ben feels betrayed by Hailey never telling him about his son, it all begins to unravel.
I really enjoy this series by McHugh. The books make for a quick read, definitely have some heat between the characters, and overall leave you happy at the end. As the story partially revolves around the loss of a child, this one definitely brings out the tears. Adam and Lia from the first story are briefly mentioned in this book, but it definitely can be read as a stand alone. As they are a total of six brothers, I am anticipating at least another four sweet and spicy stories to come.
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Hailey works for her father in his bar while really working on her ultimate goal--making the Canadian Women's Hockey team. She has to do it, not only for herself but also because of her promise to Zach, her little boy who died the year before. Her plans almost get derailed by the one guy who changed her life so many years before. She despises him because she feels he denied her and because he never acknowledged their son.
As we learn from the story things are not always what they seem and because of that Hailey and Ben get a second shot. We quickly move through their story and it is great how much they inspire each other to move on with their goals. Things are great, but so much has never been said and when Ben feels betrayed by Hailey never telling him about his son, it all begins to unravel.
I really enjoy this series by McHugh. The books make for a quick read, definitely have some heat between the characters, and overall leave you happy at the end. As the story partially revolves around the loss of a child, this one definitely brings out the tears. Adam and Lia from the first story are briefly mentioned in this book, but it definitely can be read as a stand alone. As they are a total of six brothers, I am anticipating at least another four sweet and spicy stories to come.
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 8, 2014
4 heart stopping second chance stars! This one sucked me in right away! Hailey and Ben have an immediate connection at a hockey game that leads to an intense one night stand. Ben has never forgotten her and carries in his wallet a momento of their night together (a note she wrote him) So, when he sees her 9 years later he is shocked that she is so standoffish towards him and shows him anger.
Hailey has a promise to keep and she will do anything to see it come true. So when the one person she never wants to see again comes walking back into her life and asks her out again, she can't help but be distracted by him.
This story is truly about 2nd ( and 3rd chances) it is a quick read, but it tugs at your heart as Ben and Hailey have more than a connection through a one night stand. Both characters make mistakes throughout the story, but you can tell that their is fate on their side to be together. I liked that Hailey was a strong woman and not someone who wanted pity. She wanted to get her way but working hard. Then when Ben said things that were downright hurtful, she stood up for herself and I love that fact that she slugged him! It was like, You go girl!! But Ben wasn't a bad guy, he was misguided and I can't fault him for his reactions to the news because Hailey was wrong also.
Loved the ending!! And would love to read about what happens to them in the next installment from this author even though it focuses on Caleb.
*This honest review was done in exchange for an ARC through Netgalley from Crista McHugh-THANK YOU!!*
Hailey has a promise to keep and she will do anything to see it come true. So when the one person she never wants to see again comes walking back into her life and asks her out again, she can't help but be distracted by him.
This story is truly about 2nd ( and 3rd chances) it is a quick read, but it tugs at your heart as Ben and Hailey have more than a connection through a one night stand. Both characters make mistakes throughout the story, but you can tell that their is fate on their side to be together. I liked that Hailey was a strong woman and not someone who wanted pity. She wanted to get her way but working hard. Then when Ben said things that were downright hurtful, she stood up for herself and I love that fact that she slugged him! It was like, You go girl!! But Ben wasn't a bad guy, he was misguided and I can't fault him for his reactions to the news because Hailey was wrong also.
Loved the ending!! And would love to read about what happens to them in the next installment from this author even though it focuses on Caleb.
*This honest review was done in exchange for an ARC through Netgalley from Crista McHugh-THANK YOU!!*
February 5, 2014
I'm always awed by people who can write a really good sex scene. Breakaway Hearts starts with an excellent one, which might be a bit off-putting for some readers. The scene is vital to the book's plot. The story, with the exception of a few of the aforementioned scenes is actually a poignantly sweet contemporary romance.
I'm not a big hockey fan, and this book gave me a new perspective on the sport and the people who play it. I can't say anything about the accuracy, but the spirit of the game felt real to me as a reader.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
I'm not a big hockey fan, and this book gave me a new perspective on the sport and the people who play it. I can't say anything about the accuracy, but the spirit of the game felt real to me as a reader.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
December 27, 2013
Oh wow I have tears of happiness right now from reading this beautiful story off lose, heartbreak, true love and hockey it's hailey and ben's story and it's one you don't want to miss out on. It's a must read book for those who love a good romantic story that's draws you in and wrings you out.
January 10, 2015
Ms. McHugh definitely knows how to play with the big dogs.
Read full review in the 2014/2015 Holiday issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2014/2015 Holiday issue of InD’tale Magazine.
February 5, 2014
Great second chance romance!
February 5, 2014
Breakaway Hearts by Crista McHugh is the 2nd book in her The Kelley Brothers series. I loved the first book in this series, and after reading this book, there is no way I will not read each book. These stories are scorching hot with a beautiful romance, great couple, fun storyline and just simply awesome.
Breakaway Hearts is not only a romance, but a fun sports theme background, as both of our heroes are hockey players. The story starts 9 years earlier, when Ben our hero is just starting his hockey career at 19 years old. He meets a teen age hockey fan, with blue hair and together they spend a wild night that neither have forgotten years later. When he gets up in the morning, the girl of his dreams is gone, with only a note that she had fun and signed it Hailey.
Picking up in the present, Hailey, our beautiful heroine, is playing hockey with the boys during their practice session. She is as tough as they are, and thinks nothing of getting into a fight, as hockey is known for. Hailey is very good, could probably make the boys team, but her goal is to make the Olympic girls team. She works at her father’s restaurant, and practices during her off hours.
Ben, who is a goalie for the Vancouver team, is on the disabled list with a severe knee injury. He decides to get away from everything, and goes to a small town to rest, alleviate the pressure and avoid thinking about getting back on the ice. Of course, as fate would have it, this is the town Hailey lives in. But when Ben sees this pretty blond girl, he has a sense of déjà vu, but he can’t remember from where. Hailey recognizes him, as Ben is now famous, and she avoids him like the plague.
When Ben goes to the restaurant, he sees Hailey again, and can’t understand why she is so cold and distant with him. But when her name is called out, he recognizes the name and now knows who she is; Ben wants to learn more about Hailey, and why she is giving him the cold shoulder. In time, Hailey does give in to her attraction to Ben, and a beautiful romance builds, but not without some major issues that both have and need to get past.
What Ben doesn’t know, and now Hailey is afraid to tell him, is that she became pregnant 9 years ago. She had a son, Zach, who died a year ago. Hailey is in recovery mode, with the entire town supporting her recovery and her attempt to make the Olympics. Hailey had tried to write Ben and tell him about her son, with many letters, which he never responded; so she assumed that Ben wanted nothing to do with her and ignored her request for help
Ben helps Hailey with her attempt to make the girls team, and she in turn sees that he is avoiding going back on the ice. She senses his fears of getting hurt, and privately uses different ploys to get him on the ice with her. Slowly, Ben gets past his fears with Hailey’s help, and he learns accidentally from someone else about his son.
We fell in love with Ben and Hailey who made such a wonderful couple, and we rooted for Hailey to get a chance to show how good she is to make the girls team. We also grieved when Ben found out about Hailey’s secret, and became angry. Did Ben learn the truth about Hailey’s letters? Will Ben forgive Hailey? Will Hailey make the Olympic team? Will this wonderful couple find a way to be together?
This was another wonderful story by Crista McHugh, in a sizzling hot fabulous series. There were so many wonderful things about this book. I loved the small town atmosphere, where they all looked out for each other. The hockey background was enjoyable and fun. But most of all, Ben and Hailey made a fantastic couple, and I hope in the future Kelley Brothers stories, we get to see more of them. If you are a romance junkie, you need to start this wonderful series by Crista McHugh.
Barb
Breakaway Hearts is not only a romance, but a fun sports theme background, as both of our heroes are hockey players. The story starts 9 years earlier, when Ben our hero is just starting his hockey career at 19 years old. He meets a teen age hockey fan, with blue hair and together they spend a wild night that neither have forgotten years later. When he gets up in the morning, the girl of his dreams is gone, with only a note that she had fun and signed it Hailey.
Picking up in the present, Hailey, our beautiful heroine, is playing hockey with the boys during their practice session. She is as tough as they are, and thinks nothing of getting into a fight, as hockey is known for. Hailey is very good, could probably make the boys team, but her goal is to make the Olympic girls team. She works at her father’s restaurant, and practices during her off hours.
Ben, who is a goalie for the Vancouver team, is on the disabled list with a severe knee injury. He decides to get away from everything, and goes to a small town to rest, alleviate the pressure and avoid thinking about getting back on the ice. Of course, as fate would have it, this is the town Hailey lives in. But when Ben sees this pretty blond girl, he has a sense of déjà vu, but he can’t remember from where. Hailey recognizes him, as Ben is now famous, and she avoids him like the plague.
When Ben goes to the restaurant, he sees Hailey again, and can’t understand why she is so cold and distant with him. But when her name is called out, he recognizes the name and now knows who she is; Ben wants to learn more about Hailey, and why she is giving him the cold shoulder. In time, Hailey does give in to her attraction to Ben, and a beautiful romance builds, but not without some major issues that both have and need to get past.
What Ben doesn’t know, and now Hailey is afraid to tell him, is that she became pregnant 9 years ago. She had a son, Zach, who died a year ago. Hailey is in recovery mode, with the entire town supporting her recovery and her attempt to make the Olympics. Hailey had tried to write Ben and tell him about her son, with many letters, which he never responded; so she assumed that Ben wanted nothing to do with her and ignored her request for help
Ben helps Hailey with her attempt to make the girls team, and she in turn sees that he is avoiding going back on the ice. She senses his fears of getting hurt, and privately uses different ploys to get him on the ice with her. Slowly, Ben gets past his fears with Hailey’s help, and he learns accidentally from someone else about his son.
We fell in love with Ben and Hailey who made such a wonderful couple, and we rooted for Hailey to get a chance to show how good she is to make the girls team. We also grieved when Ben found out about Hailey’s secret, and became angry. Did Ben learn the truth about Hailey’s letters? Will Ben forgive Hailey? Will Hailey make the Olympic team? Will this wonderful couple find a way to be together?
This was another wonderful story by Crista McHugh, in a sizzling hot fabulous series. There were so many wonderful things about this book. I loved the small town atmosphere, where they all looked out for each other. The hockey background was enjoyable and fun. But most of all, Ben and Hailey made a fantastic couple, and I hope in the future Kelley Brothers stories, we get to see more of them. If you are a romance junkie, you need to start this wonderful series by Crista McHugh.
Barb
January 23, 2014
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book two in the Kelly Brothers series. Each book in the series focuses on a different brother in the Kelly family and is a standalone with no cliffhanger.
The gist: This one is Ben’s story. He’s the NHL goalie in the family and the second son. Before Ben played in the NHL, he went to a playoff game and met Hailey. She was a totally hot, totally cool chick who wasn't just a fan of hockey; she was a lover of it. They had one insane night of passion, but when Ben woke up in the morning, she was gone. Nine years later, Ben has suffered a major knee injury that has ended his season and possibly his career. He retreats to his remote mountain cabin (more like a chalet) to lick his wounds and think about his future. Little does Ben know, Hailey lives in the small town at the base of his mountain. He stumbles across her one day and the chemistry they had back then is still very much a palpable thing. Ben never forgot Hailey and he couldn't be happier about possibly having another chance with her and he’s determined not to let her get away from him this time around. Hailey is training so she can try out for the Canadian Olympic hockey team. Ben has anxiety about getting back on the ice, but Hailey talks him into it and they train together. As they grow closer, Hailey is torn up about a secret she’s been keeping since Ben came back into her life. When he finds out what she’s been keeping from him, he’s not sure how he can forgive her for not telling him before it was too late.
So OH. MY. GOD! I am IN LOVE with these Kelly brothers! Adam was great, but Ben is just spectacular. He’s so damn sweet and genuine. He’s a professional athlete, but he shies away from the limelight. He doesn’t like attention focused on him when he’s off the ice, that’s one of the best things about being a goalie – he gets to wear a mask in front of people so he’s not as easily recognizable. He’s pretty much been in love with Hailey since that first night. He’s kept the note she left him that night in his wallet for nine years and he’s pulled it out to look at it often. When he sees her again, it’s like everything just clicks into place with him. She brings so much calm and purpose to his life. And when he finds out the big secret (if you read the book, you’ll figure the secret out real quick, but I’m not going to give it away) he’s completely devastated and I have to admit my throat tightened up and my eyes were stinging. I’ve said it before in my reviews, but it’s truly the mark of a GREAT author (in my opinion) when they can write characters and stories so good that it provokes real emotion and physiological reactions in your body when you’re reading.
Hailey is truly amazing, too. Here is a girl who has been through the ringer since her whirlwind night with the incredibly delectable Ben. Her Olympic dreams were crushed back then and she’s just now able to give em another shot and this will be her last chance. You can’t help but fall in love with her and feel her pain.
I withheld a star on this one because of the need for it to be proofread, but the story and the characters were absolutely AMAZING! Plus, it’s a really quick read. It took me just a couple hours. Just like book one in the series, this one is just sweet and romantic, with a bit of tragedy from the past and some steamy ‘smut’ sprinkled throughout. Thoroughly enjoyable!
The gist: This one is Ben’s story. He’s the NHL goalie in the family and the second son. Before Ben played in the NHL, he went to a playoff game and met Hailey. She was a totally hot, totally cool chick who wasn't just a fan of hockey; she was a lover of it. They had one insane night of passion, but when Ben woke up in the morning, she was gone. Nine years later, Ben has suffered a major knee injury that has ended his season and possibly his career. He retreats to his remote mountain cabin (more like a chalet) to lick his wounds and think about his future. Little does Ben know, Hailey lives in the small town at the base of his mountain. He stumbles across her one day and the chemistry they had back then is still very much a palpable thing. Ben never forgot Hailey and he couldn't be happier about possibly having another chance with her and he’s determined not to let her get away from him this time around. Hailey is training so she can try out for the Canadian Olympic hockey team. Ben has anxiety about getting back on the ice, but Hailey talks him into it and they train together. As they grow closer, Hailey is torn up about a secret she’s been keeping since Ben came back into her life. When he finds out what she’s been keeping from him, he’s not sure how he can forgive her for not telling him before it was too late.
So OH. MY. GOD! I am IN LOVE with these Kelly brothers! Adam was great, but Ben is just spectacular. He’s so damn sweet and genuine. He’s a professional athlete, but he shies away from the limelight. He doesn’t like attention focused on him when he’s off the ice, that’s one of the best things about being a goalie – he gets to wear a mask in front of people so he’s not as easily recognizable. He’s pretty much been in love with Hailey since that first night. He’s kept the note she left him that night in his wallet for nine years and he’s pulled it out to look at it often. When he sees her again, it’s like everything just clicks into place with him. She brings so much calm and purpose to his life. And when he finds out the big secret (if you read the book, you’ll figure the secret out real quick, but I’m not going to give it away) he’s completely devastated and I have to admit my throat tightened up and my eyes were stinging. I’ve said it before in my reviews, but it’s truly the mark of a GREAT author (in my opinion) when they can write characters and stories so good that it provokes real emotion and physiological reactions in your body when you’re reading.
Hailey is truly amazing, too. Here is a girl who has been through the ringer since her whirlwind night with the incredibly delectable Ben. Her Olympic dreams were crushed back then and she’s just now able to give em another shot and this will be her last chance. You can’t help but fall in love with her and feel her pain.
I withheld a star on this one because of the need for it to be proofread, but the story and the characters were absolutely AMAZING! Plus, it’s a really quick read. It took me just a couple hours. Just like book one in the series, this one is just sweet and romantic, with a bit of tragedy from the past and some steamy ‘smut’ sprinkled throughout. Thoroughly enjoyable!
November 13, 2020
Ben Kelly has never forgotten the woman he spent one night with before he was famous. Sure, her blue hair was pretty unforgettable, but so was everything else about her. Unfortunately, he can't go back in time and ask for her phone number before falling asleep, before waking up and finding her gone. But when he spots her playing hockey in Cascade, he's hell bent on getting a second chance. If only she didn't hate him on sight.
Hailey Eriksson hasn't forgotten about Ben, either, but not just because the had one amazing night together. Despite using protection, she had returned home pregnant, and though she'd tried to reach out to him over the years, her letters had gotten her nowhere. Not even when she wrote to tell him their son was dying. And now he's here, a year too late to meet the boy who changed her life but just in time to turn everything upside down.
There were a few places in the story where things wrapped up just a little too easily. I mean, I'm glad there wasn't prolonged angst -- it wouldn't have fit with the overall mood. But even though I know it's fiction, I expected the conflict to be more... well, more of a conflict than an almost instant resolution.
Take the moment Ben found out about his late son, or rather what prevented him from ever knowing about Zach. Surely anger would have been an appropriate reaction. Instead, there was just a strange resignation. He was more upset when he realized the truth about Zach than when he faced the true reason he'd been left in the dark for so long. And at the end, when everything was finally worked out... Is a heartfelt apology really all it takes to resolve emotions to the point that happily ever after is just guaranteed? I'm not so sure.
Obviously this book is quite different than its predecessor, and the early-on revelation that Ben had a son he'd never get to know added a heavy layer to things, but where this sort of thing would normally have made me hesitant to finish the book, instead I found myself trying to read the whole damned thing before going to bed -- waaaaaay past when I should have called it a night.
Hailey's situation is heartbreaking, but she's still a strong, likeable character. She could have gone off the depression deep end, or she could have become cold and withdrawn. Instead, even though she's obviously still grieving, her life doesn't revolve around mourning. It's more about living, about pursuing her dreams, just like she promised her son she would do. It was this characterization that really made the book.
Likewise, Ben is easy to love. He's confident and determined when it comes to Hailey, and even though there were plenty of opportunities for him to react with frustration or anger well before the truth about his son was revealed, he proved himself to be a decent, stand-up guy that I couldn't help but immediately love.
Breakaway Hearts is a surprisingly sweet romance in the aftermath of terrible luck and tragedy, and yet it's a quick, fairly light read. Even more impressive is that every book so far in this series is completely different from the next, with fresh characters, new conflicts, and no sign of recycled plot twists. Good thing there are so many Kelly brothers, since it means there will be lots more wonderful romance to come!
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Hailey Eriksson hasn't forgotten about Ben, either, but not just because the had one amazing night together. Despite using protection, she had returned home pregnant, and though she'd tried to reach out to him over the years, her letters had gotten her nowhere. Not even when she wrote to tell him their son was dying. And now he's here, a year too late to meet the boy who changed her life but just in time to turn everything upside down.
There were a few places in the story where things wrapped up just a little too easily. I mean, I'm glad there wasn't prolonged angst -- it wouldn't have fit with the overall mood. But even though I know it's fiction, I expected the conflict to be more... well, more of a conflict than an almost instant resolution.
Take the moment Ben found out about his late son, or rather what prevented him from ever knowing about Zach. Surely anger would have been an appropriate reaction. Instead, there was just a strange resignation. He was more upset when he realized the truth about Zach than when he faced the true reason he'd been left in the dark for so long. And at the end, when everything was finally worked out... Is a heartfelt apology really all it takes to resolve emotions to the point that happily ever after is just guaranteed? I'm not so sure.
Obviously this book is quite different than its predecessor, and the early-on revelation that Ben had a son he'd never get to know added a heavy layer to things, but where this sort of thing would normally have made me hesitant to finish the book, instead I found myself trying to read the whole damned thing before going to bed -- waaaaaay past when I should have called it a night.
Hailey's situation is heartbreaking, but she's still a strong, likeable character. She could have gone off the depression deep end, or she could have become cold and withdrawn. Instead, even though she's obviously still grieving, her life doesn't revolve around mourning. It's more about living, about pursuing her dreams, just like she promised her son she would do. It was this characterization that really made the book.
Likewise, Ben is easy to love. He's confident and determined when it comes to Hailey, and even though there were plenty of opportunities for him to react with frustration or anger well before the truth about his son was revealed, he proved himself to be a decent, stand-up guy that I couldn't help but immediately love.
Breakaway Hearts is a surprisingly sweet romance in the aftermath of terrible luck and tragedy, and yet it's a quick, fairly light read. Even more impressive is that every book so far in this series is completely different from the next, with fresh characters, new conflicts, and no sign of recycled plot twists. Good thing there are so many Kelly brothers, since it means there will be lots more wonderful romance to come!
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 4, 2014
OMG! Seriously! Just OMG!
McHugh got me fangirling on many levels on this one. First Ben- a hockey player.. need I say more? Then the whole sports injury thing... add to that the entire hockey thing.. I mean winter sports! I am a winter romance kinda girl- because of winter sports! BUT mostly this is a serious cute and fluffy fix!
Was the story line surprising with unpredictable twists and turns? Uhm, I wish I could say no. It was utterly predictable no surprises anywhere. But did I care? NOPE.
In fact while this one had insta-lust, unlike in the first book I found Ben and Hailey build up their relationship in a way more realistic way. Which is why I enjoyed this book more.
Oh and as before the smut didn't disappoint, at all.
The character building is done well, as in the last book. I like Hailey and Ben. The book is written alternating from both their POVs and they have different voices. I could relate to their fears and passions. I like them probably better than Adam and Lia. But then again I wasn't really into their insta-love relationship, so this could be the big damper there. It was nice to get glimpses of Adam again. I really like the relationship the brothers have. And I liked Patrick as well. Seems McHugh writes swoon-worthy dude characters seriously well!
Both Hailey and Ben do some serious growth during the story and over come their difficulties. I really enjoyed that part of the novel - besides the romance bit. Which I have to admit I was all gooey over. But in my defense, Ben is a hockey player damnit! I never had a chance there did it?
The only thing again was that the support characters were rather cliche again. The stepmum and dad- were your run of the mill kinda characters. But again I couldn't care less. Because Hailey and Ben made up for it more than enough!
I have read quite a few of McHugh's books, so it's safe to expect that I will like her writing style. And I wasn't disappointed at all. In fact she wowed me with her writing about skating- I mean it's so good. I felt the ice calling me! I should maybe explain that I am in Cape Town at the moment, it's in the middle of summer here... so feeling like I wanna be back on the ice right this moment is quite a feat. She also got the getting back after an injury thing so right. See I had a knee injury snow boarding- took quite a bit of guts to get back on the board, back in the game. Ben's worries, his fears and his reaction was so well written- it was so similar to how I felt at the time of my injury.
I left me wondering- how did McHugh get it so right? Does she play hockey? Did she have a knee injury as well? Seriously well written for sure.
Which leaves me with a million of questions- few are about the series. Most importantly is McHugh writing a book for each Kelly brother? PLEASE let the answer be yes!
But I wanna know how does McHugh write one novel about the food business and the next about hockey --- and I am freakn awed by both of them with her background knowledge and insight! HOW? I want an interview! I wanna know who Crista McHugh is and how does she go about writing these kind of novels?
oh and how do I get my hands on the next sequel of this?
McHugh got me fangirling on many levels on this one. First Ben- a hockey player.. need I say more? Then the whole sports injury thing... add to that the entire hockey thing.. I mean winter sports! I am a winter romance kinda girl- because of winter sports! BUT mostly this is a serious cute and fluffy fix!
Was the story line surprising with unpredictable twists and turns? Uhm, I wish I could say no. It was utterly predictable no surprises anywhere. But did I care? NOPE.
In fact while this one had insta-lust, unlike in the first book I found Ben and Hailey build up their relationship in a way more realistic way. Which is why I enjoyed this book more.
Oh and as before the smut didn't disappoint, at all.
The character building is done well, as in the last book. I like Hailey and Ben. The book is written alternating from both their POVs and they have different voices. I could relate to their fears and passions. I like them probably better than Adam and Lia. But then again I wasn't really into their insta-love relationship, so this could be the big damper there. It was nice to get glimpses of Adam again. I really like the relationship the brothers have. And I liked Patrick as well. Seems McHugh writes swoon-worthy dude characters seriously well!
Both Hailey and Ben do some serious growth during the story and over come their difficulties. I really enjoyed that part of the novel - besides the romance bit. Which I have to admit I was all gooey over. But in my defense, Ben is a hockey player damnit! I never had a chance there did it?
The only thing again was that the support characters were rather cliche again. The stepmum and dad- were your run of the mill kinda characters. But again I couldn't care less. Because Hailey and Ben made up for it more than enough!
I have read quite a few of McHugh's books, so it's safe to expect that I will like her writing style. And I wasn't disappointed at all. In fact she wowed me with her writing about skating- I mean it's so good. I felt the ice calling me! I should maybe explain that I am in Cape Town at the moment, it's in the middle of summer here... so feeling like I wanna be back on the ice right this moment is quite a feat. She also got the getting back after an injury thing so right. See I had a knee injury snow boarding- took quite a bit of guts to get back on the board, back in the game. Ben's worries, his fears and his reaction was so well written- it was so similar to how I felt at the time of my injury.
I left me wondering- how did McHugh get it so right? Does she play hockey? Did she have a knee injury as well? Seriously well written for sure.
Which leaves me with a million of questions- few are about the series. Most importantly is McHugh writing a book for each Kelly brother? PLEASE let the answer be yes!
But I wanna know how does McHugh write one novel about the food business and the next about hockey --- and I am freakn awed by both of them with her background knowledge and insight! HOW? I want an interview! I wanna know who Crista McHugh is and how does she go about writing these kind of novels?
oh and how do I get my hands on the next sequel of this?
February 3, 2015
This is the second in the Kelly Brothers series. I believe there are seven brothers total, and they are all named alphabetically, so brother number two is Ben.
I have to state upfront that I am not a fan of reunited lovers or of secret babies. I know some people totally love reunion stories, but I just feel like I missed out on the romance the first time around, so I’m not really satisfied.
But this story is about people who had a one night stand once upon a time, so they don’t quite fit into the reunited lovers category. Even better: Ben is a hockey player and he’s suffered from multiple concussions, so he doesn’t even recognize Hailey when he sees her again. Her hair is a different color, and she doesn’t exactly walk up to him and say, “Hey, remember that one time in that hotel room?”, but still. I like that Ben wasn’t carrying a torch for her his whole life.
Ben is hiding out in a small ski town in British Columbia after a knee injury that might end his NHL career. He’s mopey and afraid to go back on the ice. Hailey is a waitress at the local bar, and she’s also an excellent hockey player. She’s preparing to try out for the Olympic team. She recognizes Ben at once, both as a famous hockey player and as that guy she slept with that one time. And she does not have time for that, because, Olympic dreams.
The blurb on the back of the book explains that Hailey got pregnant from a one-night stand, and her son died, so it’s not a spoiler to say that she has some emotional baggage. Hailey knows Ben was the father. She tried to contact him but was rebuffed by the publicity department, although she believes that Ben was told about their son. So she is not happy with him.
Ben, meanwhile, is just a good guy trying to make a connection with a girl he really likes. He shows up at the ice rink, he shows up at her work, he even dares to get back on the ice to get a date out of her. I enjoyed his pursuit of Hailey, because he took it slow and he picked up on all of her emotional cues that told him to back off.
I did not enjoy Hailey keeping her big secret for so long. First, she blamed Ben (internally) for never meeting their son. Then, she thought that maybe Ben never knew about their son after all, so she decides that she shouldn’t tell him right away because it might mess him up, or mess her up, or mess the universe up, or something. I’ve got too many daytime TV hosts and advice columnists in my head, screaming, “You don’t get to decide when to break the news, it’s not just your secret anymore.”
When Ben finally learns about his dead son, he’s angry with Hailey, as well he should have been. But somehow through lots of crying and discussions with other people, it gets turned around that Ben did something wrong and he has to beg forgiveness from Hailey. And I did not get that. I was too angry at Hailey anyway, for missing a zillion opportunities to say, “Hey, guess what?” I did not think Ben needed a big gesture to win her back. But he did anyway, so good for him. Let’s blame me: I failed to sympathize with the heroine for the last third of the book.
Rating: C
This review originally posted on Red Hot Books at: http://redhotbooks.com/2015/01/review...
I have to state upfront that I am not a fan of reunited lovers or of secret babies. I know some people totally love reunion stories, but I just feel like I missed out on the romance the first time around, so I’m not really satisfied.
But this story is about people who had a one night stand once upon a time, so they don’t quite fit into the reunited lovers category. Even better: Ben is a hockey player and he’s suffered from multiple concussions, so he doesn’t even recognize Hailey when he sees her again. Her hair is a different color, and she doesn’t exactly walk up to him and say, “Hey, remember that one time in that hotel room?”, but still. I like that Ben wasn’t carrying a torch for her his whole life.
Ben is hiding out in a small ski town in British Columbia after a knee injury that might end his NHL career. He’s mopey and afraid to go back on the ice. Hailey is a waitress at the local bar, and she’s also an excellent hockey player. She’s preparing to try out for the Olympic team. She recognizes Ben at once, both as a famous hockey player and as that guy she slept with that one time. And she does not have time for that, because, Olympic dreams.
The blurb on the back of the book explains that Hailey got pregnant from a one-night stand, and her son died, so it’s not a spoiler to say that she has some emotional baggage. Hailey knows Ben was the father. She tried to contact him but was rebuffed by the publicity department, although she believes that Ben was told about their son. So she is not happy with him.
Ben, meanwhile, is just a good guy trying to make a connection with a girl he really likes. He shows up at the ice rink, he shows up at her work, he even dares to get back on the ice to get a date out of her. I enjoyed his pursuit of Hailey, because he took it slow and he picked up on all of her emotional cues that told him to back off.
I did not enjoy Hailey keeping her big secret for so long. First, she blamed Ben (internally) for never meeting their son. Then, she thought that maybe Ben never knew about their son after all, so she decides that she shouldn’t tell him right away because it might mess him up, or mess her up, or mess the universe up, or something. I’ve got too many daytime TV hosts and advice columnists in my head, screaming, “You don’t get to decide when to break the news, it’s not just your secret anymore.”
When Ben finally learns about his dead son, he’s angry with Hailey, as well he should have been. But somehow through lots of crying and discussions with other people, it gets turned around that Ben did something wrong and he has to beg forgiveness from Hailey. And I did not get that. I was too angry at Hailey anyway, for missing a zillion opportunities to say, “Hey, guess what?” I did not think Ben needed a big gesture to win her back. But he did anyway, so good for him. Let’s blame me: I failed to sympathize with the heroine for the last third of the book.
Rating: C
This review originally posted on Red Hot Books at: http://redhotbooks.com/2015/01/review...
January 13, 2014
Breakaway Hearts by Crista McHugh
4 Stars
Sometimes a chance meeting leads to the person you are meant to be with for the rest of your life. What is the thing any hockey player’s dreams of, meeting a girl who loves hockey as much as he does. Ben goes against his normal tendency to take things slow and spends and incredible night with Hailey. He knows he wants to see her again and he makes up his mind he will get her contact information in the morning; except the only thing he saw when woke was a note from Hailey.
:…he crossed the room and picked up one of the skates. The last time he’d worn them was the night he’d been injured. And now he was willing to risk getting hurt again just ti impress a girl.
Well, not just any girl. Hailey.”
Ben is not your typical jock character. He is rather quiet and a little reserved for a hockey player (at least considering the ones I have read about in contemporary romance). His fear about his ability to return to hockey after an injury was very well written. I enjoyed how he wasn’t instantly “cured”. I think it was brilliant to have Hailey be more than just a hockey fan; her love of the game was evident. The hockey theme and mentions were not too much for someone like me who doesn’t really watch the game; a true hockey fan might find it too light. The real focus of this story was the relationship Ben and Hailey had and where Book 1 had the couple fall for each other quickly and their relationship progressed fast; this one took its time. Intimate scenes were varied but not overly graphic, I would say more of a simmer than steamy.
I have mixed feelings on the plot of this book. I enjoyed the setting, the small Canadian town was quaint; enough detail was given to envision the town, but not too much to overtake the story between Ben and Hailey. The secondary characters were well thought out and placed well in the story. Any character we got to know well had a direct purpose, no real fluff characters in this book. We also got to see a glimpse at Ben’s family with a few phone calls to his Mom and Adam from Book 1. Where I have problems in the plot is the story line that threatens to rip Ben and Hailey apart (I am trying to avoid a huge spoiler) it is one that is common in today’s contemporary romance, and one as a woman I have a hard time accepting and wrapping my head around. Yes the threat to their HEA is real and often happens in real life; but I am challenged that it would really happen to these two characters who seem so true to their feelings. The way they behaved seemed so out of character. The solution of this conflict was quick and again unrealistic to me. After a unique setting and way the couple met I had hoped for an equally unique plot twist to cause conflict with the couple.
In the end I did enjoy the book. The characters are warm, and are people I would love to spend more time with. The few mentions of the other Kelly brothers have me still intrigued to read more. The only disappointing part is I now have to wait some time before I can read Book 3 and it is not available for more than a month.
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review.
4 Stars
Sometimes a chance meeting leads to the person you are meant to be with for the rest of your life. What is the thing any hockey player’s dreams of, meeting a girl who loves hockey as much as he does. Ben goes against his normal tendency to take things slow and spends and incredible night with Hailey. He knows he wants to see her again and he makes up his mind he will get her contact information in the morning; except the only thing he saw when woke was a note from Hailey.
:…he crossed the room and picked up one of the skates. The last time he’d worn them was the night he’d been injured. And now he was willing to risk getting hurt again just ti impress a girl.
Well, not just any girl. Hailey.”
Ben is not your typical jock character. He is rather quiet and a little reserved for a hockey player (at least considering the ones I have read about in contemporary romance). His fear about his ability to return to hockey after an injury was very well written. I enjoyed how he wasn’t instantly “cured”. I think it was brilliant to have Hailey be more than just a hockey fan; her love of the game was evident. The hockey theme and mentions were not too much for someone like me who doesn’t really watch the game; a true hockey fan might find it too light. The real focus of this story was the relationship Ben and Hailey had and where Book 1 had the couple fall for each other quickly and their relationship progressed fast; this one took its time. Intimate scenes were varied but not overly graphic, I would say more of a simmer than steamy.
I have mixed feelings on the plot of this book. I enjoyed the setting, the small Canadian town was quaint; enough detail was given to envision the town, but not too much to overtake the story between Ben and Hailey. The secondary characters were well thought out and placed well in the story. Any character we got to know well had a direct purpose, no real fluff characters in this book. We also got to see a glimpse at Ben’s family with a few phone calls to his Mom and Adam from Book 1. Where I have problems in the plot is the story line that threatens to rip Ben and Hailey apart (I am trying to avoid a huge spoiler) it is one that is common in today’s contemporary romance, and one as a woman I have a hard time accepting and wrapping my head around. Yes the threat to their HEA is real and often happens in real life; but I am challenged that it would really happen to these two characters who seem so true to their feelings. The way they behaved seemed so out of character. The solution of this conflict was quick and again unrealistic to me. After a unique setting and way the couple met I had hoped for an equally unique plot twist to cause conflict with the couple.
In the end I did enjoy the book. The characters are warm, and are people I would love to spend more time with. The few mentions of the other Kelly brothers have me still intrigued to read more. The only disappointing part is I now have to wait some time before I can read Book 3 and it is not available for more than a month.
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review.
April 28, 2016
*Net Galley*
Ben thought Hailey was just another "Puck Bunny" the night he met her at a hockey game. However, Hailey proved to be more than just another girl looking to hook up with a hockey player for one night. That didn't stop either one from going back to Ben's hotel room for the night. When Ben wakes up in the morning, Hailey is gone, leaving Ben actually upset that he didn't get her number. This was the one girl he actually felt a connection to, and when he finds her goodbye note (sans her phone number) in his bathroom, he folds it up and puts it in his back pocket. Nine years later, the goodbye note is still in Ben's back pocket, and he hasn't forgotten the girl who rocked his world for one night. After an accident leaves NHL player Ben off the ice for a while, he goes to the resort town of Cascade, British Columbia Canada where he sees a girl who looks vaguely familiar, but he can't place her face.
However, the girl recognizes Ben instantly and it's not because he's famous. He is the man who nine years earlier slept with her and left her pregnant and alone. Hailey harbors a secret- besides giving birth to Ben's baby, that baby has just died of an incurable brain tumor, and Hailey is out for Ben's blood, but yet every time she gets the chance to tell Ben where to go and how to get there, she chickens out.
Ben now remembers where he knows Hailey from, she's the girl who got away, but this time Ben promises himself she will not get away. The heat they had nine years ago is still as strong as ever, and before she knows it, Hailey is back in a relationship with Ben, but has yet to tell him the truth about her past, and why every time he thinks they are getting closer, she pulls away.
When Ben finally learns the truth, he can't understand why Hailey lied to him, and denied him the opportunity to get to know his son. When she claims that she did try and reach him and he denied knowing her, he leaves, knowing that she's lying. When Ben finds out that Hailey was telling the truth, he needs to find a way to make it up to her, because Ben has fallen head over heels in love with Hailey, and he can't think of a future without her in it.
This book will be published in February of this year, and I hope that before it goes to its final printing, someone goes over the book with a fine tooth comb, because there were so many typos that it almost took away from the story. That being said, I enjoyed this. It was refreshing to read a love story that was equal parts a love story between a man and a woman, but also between the characters and the sport of Hockey. Hockey was a third main character in this story, and though I don't know much about the game besides what I learned watching the Mighty Ducks movies, I caught on to the lingo pretty quick. My only problem with the characters was that I felt that not enough background information was given on them, but I will admit that if more attention had been paid to background character development, it would have made the book longer, and maybe slightly less romantic.
Ben thought Hailey was just another "Puck Bunny" the night he met her at a hockey game. However, Hailey proved to be more than just another girl looking to hook up with a hockey player for one night. That didn't stop either one from going back to Ben's hotel room for the night. When Ben wakes up in the morning, Hailey is gone, leaving Ben actually upset that he didn't get her number. This was the one girl he actually felt a connection to, and when he finds her goodbye note (sans her phone number) in his bathroom, he folds it up and puts it in his back pocket. Nine years later, the goodbye note is still in Ben's back pocket, and he hasn't forgotten the girl who rocked his world for one night. After an accident leaves NHL player Ben off the ice for a while, he goes to the resort town of Cascade, British Columbia Canada where he sees a girl who looks vaguely familiar, but he can't place her face.
However, the girl recognizes Ben instantly and it's not because he's famous. He is the man who nine years earlier slept with her and left her pregnant and alone. Hailey harbors a secret- besides giving birth to Ben's baby, that baby has just died of an incurable brain tumor, and Hailey is out for Ben's blood, but yet every time she gets the chance to tell Ben where to go and how to get there, she chickens out.
Ben now remembers where he knows Hailey from, she's the girl who got away, but this time Ben promises himself she will not get away. The heat they had nine years ago is still as strong as ever, and before she knows it, Hailey is back in a relationship with Ben, but has yet to tell him the truth about her past, and why every time he thinks they are getting closer, she pulls away.
When Ben finally learns the truth, he can't understand why Hailey lied to him, and denied him the opportunity to get to know his son. When she claims that she did try and reach him and he denied knowing her, he leaves, knowing that she's lying. When Ben finds out that Hailey was telling the truth, he needs to find a way to make it up to her, because Ben has fallen head over heels in love with Hailey, and he can't think of a future without her in it.
This book will be published in February of this year, and I hope that before it goes to its final printing, someone goes over the book with a fine tooth comb, because there were so many typos that it almost took away from the story. That being said, I enjoyed this. It was refreshing to read a love story that was equal parts a love story between a man and a woman, but also between the characters and the sport of Hockey. Hockey was a third main character in this story, and though I don't know much about the game besides what I learned watching the Mighty Ducks movies, I caught on to the lingo pretty quick. My only problem with the characters was that I felt that not enough background information was given on them, but I will admit that if more attention had been paid to background character development, it would have made the book longer, and maybe slightly less romantic.
February 25, 2014
Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak
Rating: 4.5 Stars
It started hot, and the level of heat had carried on throughout the book.
The first time Ben and Hailey met – there was already a powerful connection and attraction. They didn’t waste each other’s time – they instantly hit it off, doing things none of them would imagine they’d be doing in a normal day. Ben wasn’t and never has been a player, and Hailey is not the type to give in on the first date. But meeting, looking into each other’s eyes, and tasting each other’s kiss was enough for them to set aside their personal norms.
That was nine years ago –
Now, hockey superstar Ben Kelly is recovering from a serious, almost career-ending knee injury and is questioning his future with the NHL. What he didn’t expect during his hiatus is to come across a very familiar face from his past. The woman who left him a note he kept with him all these years – the one who got away.
Despite all these years, you can still feel the connection.
I always wanted to remember you and that night, but I also wanted a reminder to act when I felt the urge and not let something special slip through my grasp again.
Hailey had dreamed of becoming one of the members of the Hockey Olympic team until an accidental pregnancy had halted it. Furthermore, her life was broken when her son died and the father, whom she thought was a good man, didn’t really care about any of them. Now, motivated by a promise to her dead son of making it into the Olympic team, she will do anything for that dream. Until Ben Kelly strutted into their town, and asking her for another chance. When the love returns, and the secrets are uncovered, will their love be enough to keep their relationship afloat?
He’d been given a second chance with the one woman he could never forget. Maybe if he was persistent, he’d get lucky in more than one way.
I enjoyed reading this, not just because it contains my favorite plot, but because it has interesting characters, most especially Hailey who’s love and passion for hockey rivals Ben. She’s an amazing mom to her kid, and I just fell heartbroken for her when she lost the kid – but she tries to live for him by fulfilling her promise. As to Ben, he might not have known the kid, but in his own, small way, he had made it up to Hailey. Which had probably made all the difference after the stunt he put. The ending was pretty great, and not to mention timely. I couldn’t think of a better ending for this book. Certainly I’m sure I’ll be reading another work from this author.
For readers who would love to read something short, and sweet, with a little spice about love and second chances – here’s a wonderful book for you all.
★ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.★
June 6, 2014
All I can say is that even though this book was short and fast paced, it was ADORABLE!!!!!
I couldn't put it down, i loved all the characters (even the jerk side of Ben) and I am mentally hitting myself for not reading the first book!! :(
*Note to self: GET THE FIRST BOOK :)*
Anyway, I'm so glad I won this in a goodreads giveaway because this is my new favorite series of all time along with The Selection and The Hunger Games <3
So, Crista McHugh, YOUR A GENIOUS AND KEEP WRITING LIKE THIS ITS AMAZING!!!!
Now a short brief summary of this amazing book :):
This book is told on 2 point of views, the first one Ben Kelly who is a professional hockey player on break because of a knee injury, has retreated to his mountain cabin in the ski town of Cascade, BC.
While he is there, he goes to watch a hockey game and he runs into Hailey, the girl he was in love with nine years ago :)
Nine years may have passed, but nothing has dulled the explosive chemistry between them. Now he wants more than just one night...........
The second point of view is Hailey Erikson who had Olympic-sized dreams until an accidental pregnancy from nine years before today with Ben, and her life was shattered when her son died of a brain tumor (such a shame :'(.
Nothing will keep her from fulfilling her promise to him to make the Olympic team, especially not the charming Ben Kelly (the guy she fell in love with nine years ago and got pregnant from ruining her career).
Unfortunately, nothing is going to stop Ben from sweeping her off her feet this time, and she finds him harder and harder to resist with each passionate kiss.
While their relationship growing, something complicated their relationship, putting it to a hold.
Ben learns about the child that he once had with Hailey that he never knew about....
He didn't know about the child because his agent kept the letters that Hailey gave to him that were important at the time, he found out by Hailey's stepmother Claire, and Ben thinks Hailey is a coward for keeping this from her.
That's when things got complicated between them.
At first it affects their relationship build in the story, but then Ben apologized like crazy to Hailey for going out on her like how he did at the end of the book, and of course they make up because they can't get enough of each other.
With the help of his brother Adam, Ben finally gets the courage to ask Hailey to marry him when Hailey had an Olympics career of her own, keeping the promise she kept with Zach (their son) and Ben continues his career after his knee is 100% fixed :)
So, this story did have a happy ending after all :) and I LOVED IT THIS BOOK WAS AMAZING!!!!
I can't wait to get the first one and the next one :) I want to find out how the other 6 brothers lives are <333 so excited!!!! :)
*HIGHLY RECOMMENDED :)*
I couldn't put it down, i loved all the characters (even the jerk side of Ben) and I am mentally hitting myself for not reading the first book!! :(
*Note to self: GET THE FIRST BOOK :)*
Anyway, I'm so glad I won this in a goodreads giveaway because this is my new favorite series of all time along with The Selection and The Hunger Games <3
So, Crista McHugh, YOUR A GENIOUS AND KEEP WRITING LIKE THIS ITS AMAZING!!!!
Now a short brief summary of this amazing book :):
This book is told on 2 point of views, the first one Ben Kelly who is a professional hockey player on break because of a knee injury, has retreated to his mountain cabin in the ski town of Cascade, BC.
While he is there, he goes to watch a hockey game and he runs into Hailey, the girl he was in love with nine years ago :)
Nine years may have passed, but nothing has dulled the explosive chemistry between them. Now he wants more than just one night...........
The second point of view is Hailey Erikson who had Olympic-sized dreams until an accidental pregnancy from nine years before today with Ben, and her life was shattered when her son died of a brain tumor (such a shame :'(.
Nothing will keep her from fulfilling her promise to him to make the Olympic team, especially not the charming Ben Kelly (the guy she fell in love with nine years ago and got pregnant from ruining her career).
Unfortunately, nothing is going to stop Ben from sweeping her off her feet this time, and she finds him harder and harder to resist with each passionate kiss.
While their relationship growing, something complicated their relationship, putting it to a hold.
Ben learns about the child that he once had with Hailey that he never knew about....
He didn't know about the child because his agent kept the letters that Hailey gave to him that were important at the time, he found out by Hailey's stepmother Claire, and Ben thinks Hailey is a coward for keeping this from her.
That's when things got complicated between them.
At first it affects their relationship build in the story, but then Ben apologized like crazy to Hailey for going out on her like how he did at the end of the book, and of course they make up because they can't get enough of each other.
With the help of his brother Adam, Ben finally gets the courage to ask Hailey to marry him when Hailey had an Olympics career of her own, keeping the promise she kept with Zach (their son) and Ben continues his career after his knee is 100% fixed :)
So, this story did have a happy ending after all :) and I LOVED IT THIS BOOK WAS AMAZING!!!!
I can't wait to get the first one and the next one :) I want to find out how the other 6 brothers lives are <333 so excited!!!! :)
*HIGHLY RECOMMENDED :)*
January 22, 2014
Originally Reviewed For: Tea and Book
Author Crista McHugh comes through again!! Breakaway Hearts is book two in her Seven Brides for Seven.. I mean Kelly Series..(see my review on book one, The Sweetest Seduction HERE) and it is just wonderful. A Poignant loving book about growing up and accepting lifes tragedies and finding the strength to go on. To forgive and love again.
As a girl Hailey Eriksson dreamed big dreams. She was going to make it on the Olympic Hockey team! She had her life all planned out.. until a one night stand changed all that. Suddenly she was an unwed mother and all of her choices seemed to be about how to be a great mom. Her dreams were still there but even they were almost destroyed when her young son succumbed to cancer. But a death bed promise has kept her going. She was going to do it.. Make the Canadian team in time for the Soichi Olympics. She knew she had a long way to go and a very slight chance but a promise is a promise. But when her son's father shows up.. Hailey is lost. How do you forgive the unforgivable?
After suffering what might become a career ending injury Hockey star Ben Kelly is wallowing in a bit of depression. Deciding to get away he ends up in a small town where they have this absolutely amazing hockey player, one of the best he's ever seen male or female. To find out she was the girl who got away stuns him. To discover she loathes the ground he walks on confuses him. She walked out after one night of amazing sex and neither of them even had more than first names. Except it seems there is way more to Hailey than Ben ever knew.. and when he finds out he was a father and never had a chance to know his son..
This book was just bittersweet. I had tears in my eyes a lot. There was so much to forgive and yet so much that didn't need to be forgiven. These two characters were children when they met.. Ben never knew he had a son and when he rose to fame, Hailey tried to contact him through the team but the PR guy (who I would have had fired BTW) sent her letters telling her that not only was it NOT Ben's son but Ben said he never even knew her. Destroying Hailey, completely.
To lose a child has to be the hardest challenge a person can ever go through.. To come out stronger, braver and better says what that person is made of and Hailey.. well she is a powerful character. Ben has had a pretty good life, if a bit selfish, but his character begins to come through beautifully as well. True compassion and true love power this book.
A book that shows that even in your darkest hour your dreams can come true.
I loved it.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of BreakAway Hearts, provided by the author for an honest review
Author Crista McHugh comes through again!! Breakaway Hearts is book two in her Seven Brides for Seven.. I mean Kelly Series..(see my review on book one, The Sweetest Seduction HERE) and it is just wonderful. A Poignant loving book about growing up and accepting lifes tragedies and finding the strength to go on. To forgive and love again.
As a girl Hailey Eriksson dreamed big dreams. She was going to make it on the Olympic Hockey team! She had her life all planned out.. until a one night stand changed all that. Suddenly she was an unwed mother and all of her choices seemed to be about how to be a great mom. Her dreams were still there but even they were almost destroyed when her young son succumbed to cancer. But a death bed promise has kept her going. She was going to do it.. Make the Canadian team in time for the Soichi Olympics. She knew she had a long way to go and a very slight chance but a promise is a promise. But when her son's father shows up.. Hailey is lost. How do you forgive the unforgivable?
After suffering what might become a career ending injury Hockey star Ben Kelly is wallowing in a bit of depression. Deciding to get away he ends up in a small town where they have this absolutely amazing hockey player, one of the best he's ever seen male or female. To find out she was the girl who got away stuns him. To discover she loathes the ground he walks on confuses him. She walked out after one night of amazing sex and neither of them even had more than first names. Except it seems there is way more to Hailey than Ben ever knew.. and when he finds out he was a father and never had a chance to know his son..
This book was just bittersweet. I had tears in my eyes a lot. There was so much to forgive and yet so much that didn't need to be forgiven. These two characters were children when they met.. Ben never knew he had a son and when he rose to fame, Hailey tried to contact him through the team but the PR guy (who I would have had fired BTW) sent her letters telling her that not only was it NOT Ben's son but Ben said he never even knew her. Destroying Hailey, completely.
To lose a child has to be the hardest challenge a person can ever go through.. To come out stronger, braver and better says what that person is made of and Hailey.. well she is a powerful character. Ben has had a pretty good life, if a bit selfish, but his character begins to come through beautifully as well. True compassion and true love power this book.
A book that shows that even in your darkest hour your dreams can come true.
I loved it.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of BreakAway Hearts, provided by the author for an honest review
January 6, 2014
Breakaway Hearts
Crista McHugh
Nine years ago Ben Kelly is a 19 yr old up and rising young hockey star. He also has the testosterone to match. After a game one night he meets up with hockey fan Hailey Erikson and together they create a night of magic. She leaves him with only a handwritten goodbye note that he carries with him.
Present day time Ben is a goal for the Vancouver Whales and is sitting on the sidelines recoverying from a painful knee injury. He is taking a break in a little town and just getting some R & R. Having dinner one night at the local Bar Sin Bin he is startled to recognize the one who he remembers from so long ago Hailey, only she does not seem so glad to see him. She is kind of giving him the cold shoulder, not talking to him much. She is the local Olympic Hockey hopeful and the whole town is rooting for her. Small town girl trying to make it big. Only she has a secret, she is mourning her son that recently died. The son that Ben does not seem to know about. Even though she sent dozens and dozens of letters to him. Hmmf.
They end up getting to know one another. She helps him skate again. He helps her practise, he makes her up a video to send to the Olympic coach. But still, she doesn't bring up Zach, her son. They get closer, spend more time together, she begins to fall for him once again. She believes he doesn't know about Zach and does not bring in up. But in a small town someone is going to let it slip, she must tell him. He loves her. It will be okay. That love is strong this time around. Right?
It was great to see a story about a female athlete. One with such detemination and desire to play in the Olympics. She worked hard for her goal. She is determined to get there to honor her son.
The love she had for her town and they for her was also evident from her parents to the owner of the skating rink.They are all trying to help her. I really enjoyed how she was trying to get the star hockey player to get back on the ice and face his fears of getting hurt again. This made her such a lovable character. He was such a cutie, determined to get her to pay attention to him. Flirting with her outragously and not taking no for an answer.
This story was fresh and very romantic. There were a few bumps along the way, was to be expected but they were handled with great care.The characters were able to express themselves, get angry and then overcome their anger and look at the greater picture and admit what part that they had did wrong. Love a guy that will admit to his mistakes. Love a girl that will forgive and still love such a guy. Loved this story. 4/5
January 23, 2014
*I won this book through the author's newsletter giveaway. *
I love hockey so I jumped at the chance to read an ARC of this book. Ben Kelly is an NHL goalie whose season was ended abruptly by a knee injury and he heads to a resort to contemplate his career. While in the resort town he encounters Hailey Erickson, who he had a one night stand with 9 years ago. Hailey is less than pleased to see Ben as she was never able to get in touch with him to let him know that they had a child, Zach, as a result from their one night together and, later, when their son was dying. Ben is unaware that Zach existed but he hasn't forgotten his one night with Hailey and wants a second chance. Hailey is resistant, especially as she made their son a promise to make it on the women's Olympic hockey team and seeing Ben again is too hard and too distracting. Ben can help Hailey achieve her dream while Hailey can help Ben overcome his fear of getting back on the ice.
I had never thought what it must be like for a sports player to recover from a serious injury. Everyone talks about how tough hockey players are compared to other sport players. They do sustain some brutal injuries and I'm sure it can be mentally challenging to get back in the game. Crista McHugh does a great job highlighting this aspect of the sport.
Overall, I really enjoyed Ben and Hailey's story. Ben is genuinely interested in Hailey and wanting to see if there is something more between them. Hailey struggles between wanting to get closer to Ben and keeping him at a distance, as well as letting him know about Zach. There is, however, a hole in the plot that really bugged me. *Spoiler* Why didn't Hailey try a different approach to get in contact with Ben? If writing letters to his team's PR manager wasn't working, why not think of something else? When Zach was staying at the children's hospital and Ben's teammate Patrick made it a point to visit Zach each week when making his rounds, why didn't Hailey ask Patrick to put her in touch with Ben? Why keep writing letters? Patrick might not have believed her but at least she could have made the effort.*
Besides the plot hole, I really enjoyed the book. The characters, including the secondary characters, were well developed. Ben and Hailey had great chemistry. It was a quick, easy read and I am interested in continuing this series.
I love hockey so I jumped at the chance to read an ARC of this book. Ben Kelly is an NHL goalie whose season was ended abruptly by a knee injury and he heads to a resort to contemplate his career. While in the resort town he encounters Hailey Erickson, who he had a one night stand with 9 years ago. Hailey is less than pleased to see Ben as she was never able to get in touch with him to let him know that they had a child, Zach, as a result from their one night together and, later, when their son was dying. Ben is unaware that Zach existed but he hasn't forgotten his one night with Hailey and wants a second chance. Hailey is resistant, especially as she made their son a promise to make it on the women's Olympic hockey team and seeing Ben again is too hard and too distracting. Ben can help Hailey achieve her dream while Hailey can help Ben overcome his fear of getting back on the ice.
I had never thought what it must be like for a sports player to recover from a serious injury. Everyone talks about how tough hockey players are compared to other sport players. They do sustain some brutal injuries and I'm sure it can be mentally challenging to get back in the game. Crista McHugh does a great job highlighting this aspect of the sport.
Overall, I really enjoyed Ben and Hailey's story. Ben is genuinely interested in Hailey and wanting to see if there is something more between them. Hailey struggles between wanting to get closer to Ben and keeping him at a distance, as well as letting him know about Zach. There is, however, a hole in the plot that really bugged me. *Spoiler* Why didn't Hailey try a different approach to get in contact with Ben? If writing letters to his team's PR manager wasn't working, why not think of something else? When Zach was staying at the children's hospital and Ben's teammate Patrick made it a point to visit Zach each week when making his rounds, why didn't Hailey ask Patrick to put her in touch with Ben? Why keep writing letters? Patrick might not have believed her but at least she could have made the effort.*
Besides the plot hole, I really enjoyed the book. The characters, including the secondary characters, were well developed. Ben and Hailey had great chemistry. It was a quick, easy read and I am interested in continuing this series.
May 22, 2016
Oh man, this had me hooked from the start. Sizzling hot. Ben and Hailey meet up, have a one night stand and when Ben wakes up in the morning he discovers Hailey has gone with no way of contacting her bar a note she left him thanking him for the night. He saves that note. For. Nine. Years. (swoon).
Fast forward nine years - Ben is a NHL player that is out due to an injury. He has gone to a resort in Canada to heal and recuperate. He sees a girl at the rink that he thinks he recognises but has no idea why or how. He goes to her dad's pub and she's a waitress there with one hell of an attitude towards him. He can't understand why but knows that something happened in her past that left her with more than a broken heart. And yes, there is a HUGE reason why she is so closed off towards him. He eventually works out that she is "his" Hailey!
Due to his persistance he wears her down to go out on a date with him. She helps him by more or less forcing him back on the ice so he can get his date with her, and he is helping her to get on the Olympic team. Things hot up from there and their relationship grows into love.
I loved both characters but Ben is just something else. Loving, considerate, patient, caring, passionate, hot in the sack ... you getting my drift???
"I don't mind waiting for you Hailey - you're worth waiting for"
Hailey did push him away and hurt him but she felt she had justifcation to keep her walls up and be very wary around him (through no fault of his own). He was forcing her to feel again after her loss.
"you reminded me what it was like to feel again - the good and the bad. I know I can't have one without the other, but you make it worth the risk. You've made me remember what joy feels like."
Once again the writing flowed so well, no editing issues and I bloody loved experiencing their second chance journey of love, healing and forgiveness to get to their happy place.
That being said I am absolutely chomping at the bit for the next brother's book. I am a series junkie - there I said it, and this one has me hooked! Ms McHugh I love your writing and you have a fan for life.
Arc received from author for an honest review and I bloody loved it!
Fast forward nine years - Ben is a NHL player that is out due to an injury. He has gone to a resort in Canada to heal and recuperate. He sees a girl at the rink that he thinks he recognises but has no idea why or how. He goes to her dad's pub and she's a waitress there with one hell of an attitude towards him. He can't understand why but knows that something happened in her past that left her with more than a broken heart. And yes, there is a HUGE reason why she is so closed off towards him. He eventually works out that she is "his" Hailey!
Due to his persistance he wears her down to go out on a date with him. She helps him by more or less forcing him back on the ice so he can get his date with her, and he is helping her to get on the Olympic team. Things hot up from there and their relationship grows into love.
I loved both characters but Ben is just something else. Loving, considerate, patient, caring, passionate, hot in the sack ... you getting my drift???
"I don't mind waiting for you Hailey - you're worth waiting for"
Hailey did push him away and hurt him but she felt she had justifcation to keep her walls up and be very wary around him (through no fault of his own). He was forcing her to feel again after her loss.
"you reminded me what it was like to feel again - the good and the bad. I know I can't have one without the other, but you make it worth the risk. You've made me remember what joy feels like."
Once again the writing flowed so well, no editing issues and I bloody loved experiencing their second chance journey of love, healing and forgiveness to get to their happy place.
That being said I am absolutely chomping at the bit for the next brother's book. I am a series junkie - there I said it, and this one has me hooked! Ms McHugh I love your writing and you have a fan for life.
Arc received from author for an honest review and I bloody loved it!
February 21, 2014
Breakaway Hearts is the second story in Crista’s Kelly Brothers series. This book is all about Ben Kelly.
Ben is a national hockey star, but he’s out injured and has moved to Cascade to recuperate in peace and quiet. What he doesn’t expect is to bump into the girl who stole a piece of his heart 9 years ago. Hailey is desperately trying to make it to the Olympics, something she promised her son before he died. Her last chance, but then Ben walks back into her life and all her old feelings come back to the surface.
When I signed up to the tour for this book I downloaded the first book in the series The Sweetest Seduction which is about oldest brother Adam. It’s not strictly a must to read it first but I enjoyed Adam’s story and it also gives you a little background to the Kelly family. You still get a sense of the family background in Breakaway Hearts but it doesn’t feel like just a repeat of the first book which was nice.
I liked Ben from the start; he’s famous and gorgeous but seems quite unassuming. He has carried around the note that Hailey left him with after their one night together, which I thought was sweet of him and it shows a kindness in his personality which shines throughout the book.
Hailey has been through hell and back since the last time she saw Ben. An accidental pregnancy, a beautiful son and having to nurse her son through sickness and ultimately her son’s death. Her dreams were put on hold to have her son but she wants to honour a promise to him about making it to the Winter Olympics. She still has a strong connection with her son and has a determined streak in her personality to see her promise to him out. She seems resilient and has a strength of character which seems to come from the promise she made.
The story, like with The Sweetest Seduction, is dual POV, which I am really enjoying in books just now. It alternates between characters which allows you to get a grasp for both of them and their situations and personalities. It felt like quite a short read so having a dual POV lets you really get surrounded by the story quickly.
A slightly predictable ending but in no way a predictable journey to that ending. Four stars to the second in the series.
Ben is a national hockey star, but he’s out injured and has moved to Cascade to recuperate in peace and quiet. What he doesn’t expect is to bump into the girl who stole a piece of his heart 9 years ago. Hailey is desperately trying to make it to the Olympics, something she promised her son before he died. Her last chance, but then Ben walks back into her life and all her old feelings come back to the surface.
When I signed up to the tour for this book I downloaded the first book in the series The Sweetest Seduction which is about oldest brother Adam. It’s not strictly a must to read it first but I enjoyed Adam’s story and it also gives you a little background to the Kelly family. You still get a sense of the family background in Breakaway Hearts but it doesn’t feel like just a repeat of the first book which was nice.
I liked Ben from the start; he’s famous and gorgeous but seems quite unassuming. He has carried around the note that Hailey left him with after their one night together, which I thought was sweet of him and it shows a kindness in his personality which shines throughout the book.
Hailey has been through hell and back since the last time she saw Ben. An accidental pregnancy, a beautiful son and having to nurse her son through sickness and ultimately her son’s death. Her dreams were put on hold to have her son but she wants to honour a promise to him about making it to the Winter Olympics. She still has a strong connection with her son and has a determined streak in her personality to see her promise to him out. She seems resilient and has a strength of character which seems to come from the promise she made.
The story, like with The Sweetest Seduction, is dual POV, which I am really enjoying in books just now. It alternates between characters which allows you to get a grasp for both of them and their situations and personalities. It felt like quite a short read so having a dual POV lets you really get surrounded by the story quickly.
A slightly predictable ending but in no way a predictable journey to that ending. Four stars to the second in the series.
February 5, 2014
4.5 stars
AnOTHER ScooOOoore for McHugh *read in booming sports announcer's voice*
This story has so much more heartache than the other two Kelly Brothers books I have read. That being said, I'll try to explain right off why this one lost that half star. The other two books were unpredictable, in that I thought I knew what the conflict was going to be, but then that wasn't it. The stories progressed through several stages, and I liked that it wasn't what I expected it was going to be.
Breakaway Hearts didn't have any of that element of surprise. Is that a bad thing? Not especially. I was still interested in how exactly the conflict and resolution would play out. But what I did notice is that I didn't quite connect with Hailey or Ben on an emotional level. I felt like I should but I just didn't quite get there. That is the only reason for the lack of a half star. And hell, that might just be because I don't have kids. I suspect it has very little to do with the writing, and more that I didn't want to 'go there' because it was too foreign/scary/painful to contemplate. Am I being chintzy with that half star? Probably. I may change it, later. But right now, I'm just not quite there.
I do very much like, even love, this story. I like the idea that a guy would work so very hard to win back the one woman he ever felt regret for not having the opportunity to follow through with. I like the idea of Hailey's pursuit of Olympic dreams for the sake of her son. I like the description of the small town supporting Hailey's pursuit of her dreams.
Which brings me to another element of McHugh's writing that I very much enjoy. The three Kelly Brothers books I have read have each been set in very different locales, with very different focus for each of the characters. Hockey in Canada in this book, cooking and real estate in Chicago in Book 1, and southern life, mechanics, and military life in Alabama/Georgia in Book 3. As a reader, I totally believed McHugh's treatment of each subject and each locale, and I felt like she really did her homework to make me believe.
Another well done romance!
AnOTHER ScooOOoore for McHugh *read in booming sports announcer's voice*
This story has so much more heartache than the other two Kelly Brothers books I have read. That being said, I'll try to explain right off why this one lost that half star. The other two books were unpredictable, in that I thought I knew what the conflict was going to be, but then that wasn't it. The stories progressed through several stages, and I liked that it wasn't what I expected it was going to be.
Breakaway Hearts didn't have any of that element of surprise. Is that a bad thing? Not especially. I was still interested in how exactly the conflict and resolution would play out. But what I did notice is that I didn't quite connect with Hailey or Ben on an emotional level. I felt like I should but I just didn't quite get there. That is the only reason for the lack of a half star. And hell, that might just be because I don't have kids. I suspect it has very little to do with the writing, and more that I didn't want to 'go there' because it was too foreign/scary/painful to contemplate. Am I being chintzy with that half star? Probably. I may change it, later. But right now, I'm just not quite there.
I do very much like, even love, this story. I like the idea that a guy would work so very hard to win back the one woman he ever felt regret for not having the opportunity to follow through with. I like the idea of Hailey's pursuit of Olympic dreams for the sake of her son. I like the description of the small town supporting Hailey's pursuit of her dreams.
Which brings me to another element of McHugh's writing that I very much enjoy. The three Kelly Brothers books I have read have each been set in very different locales, with very different focus for each of the characters. Hockey in Canada in this book, cooking and real estate in Chicago in Book 1, and southern life, mechanics, and military life in Alabama/Georgia in Book 3. As a reader, I totally believed McHugh's treatment of each subject and each locale, and I felt like she really did her homework to make me believe.
Another well done romance!
February 7, 2014
When Ben Kelly pops into a local bar to grab a beer and something to eat, he thinks that the waitress looks familiar and when she basically sneers at him, he doesn’t have a clue as to why. Until he makes a trip back to the bar and realizes that the one woman who got away and he has fantasized about is the one who won’t give him the time of day. But, why?
Of course, he convinces her to give him a chance and they embark on a relationship of sorts….. Sort of him showing up wherever she is and badgering her into giving into his wanting to see where things will go between them. And, once she finally gives in, things steam up pretty quickly. Hailey finds herself so taken with Ben, that she’s afraid to broach the subject of their son. How will he handle the fact that the son he never knew is forever lost to him? And, once he finds out, will they both be able to get past their feelings of betrayal, or, will their hearts be so broken that they breakaway?
If you’ve read my reviews before of Crista’s books, you know that I would read a phonebook that was written by her. THANK YOU SWEET BABY JESUS that she doesn’t settle for that and writes these amazing romance stories for all of us to enjoy. I have no idea how in the world Crista does all that she does AND continues to write such wonderful stories. But, I’ll tell you (and her) that I am sooooo glad that she does!! I absolute adored Ben and Hailey. For an author to be able to write of such a profound loss and weave the story the way she did absolutely did me in. I have only said this about two other authors, but I absolutely worship at the altar that is Crista McHugh. Very well done, Crista, very very well done. I can’t wait for the next Kelly Brother, and I’ll say it again peeps…… If you’re looking for sweet, hot, touching, funny, sexy romance, she is the author for you!!!!
You can read all of my reviews at thereadingcafe.com.
Of course, he convinces her to give him a chance and they embark on a relationship of sorts….. Sort of him showing up wherever she is and badgering her into giving into his wanting to see where things will go between them. And, once she finally gives in, things steam up pretty quickly. Hailey finds herself so taken with Ben, that she’s afraid to broach the subject of their son. How will he handle the fact that the son he never knew is forever lost to him? And, once he finds out, will they both be able to get past their feelings of betrayal, or, will their hearts be so broken that they breakaway?
If you’ve read my reviews before of Crista’s books, you know that I would read a phonebook that was written by her. THANK YOU SWEET BABY JESUS that she doesn’t settle for that and writes these amazing romance stories for all of us to enjoy. I have no idea how in the world Crista does all that she does AND continues to write such wonderful stories. But, I’ll tell you (and her) that I am sooooo glad that she does!! I absolute adored Ben and Hailey. For an author to be able to write of such a profound loss and weave the story the way she did absolutely did me in. I have only said this about two other authors, but I absolutely worship at the altar that is Crista McHugh. Very well done, Crista, very very well done. I can’t wait for the next Kelly Brother, and I’ll say it again peeps…… If you’re looking for sweet, hot, touching, funny, sexy romance, she is the author for you!!!!
You can read all of my reviews at thereadingcafe.com.
February 3, 2014
4 solid stars!
I love second-chance romances. In the beginning, I thought it would be a light and breezy read. And while it was still all those things, there were also that depth of emotions and the gravity of experiences that both characters were experiencing, which in my book make this story deserving of its stars indeed.
Ben Kelly is a professional hockey player who suffered a major injury and who has come to the town of Cascade to recuperate. When he visits the town’s ice rink, he finds himself drawn to Hailey Erikkson, who’s got the skills and talent in the ice as well. Unbeknownst to him in the beginning, Hailey is the same woman from a one-night stand in the past that he never really forgot about, the consequences of which were even beyond his wildest imaginations.
Ben and Hailey are characters that I didn’t have problems relating with. Of course, I wouldn’t know the first thing about experiencing a potentially career-ending injury like Ben did or about losing your son to an illness and being unable to do anything to halt the disease like Hailey did. But Crista McHugh did an amazing job translating these experiences into something that the readers can grasp and can feel.
These two people are wary of venturing beyond the lines that their fears have drawn that the conflict is not only external but internal as well. It was satisfying to watch their character developments because the author made me understand what it was they were going through and what it was they needed to overcome.
At times funny, at times tear-inducing, but an all around heartwarming read. This is the second in Crista McHugh’s the Kelly Brothers series and I will definitely come back for more.
Camille @ Girl meets Books
I love second-chance romances. In the beginning, I thought it would be a light and breezy read. And while it was still all those things, there were also that depth of emotions and the gravity of experiences that both characters were experiencing, which in my book make this story deserving of its stars indeed.
Ben Kelly is a professional hockey player who suffered a major injury and who has come to the town of Cascade to recuperate. When he visits the town’s ice rink, he finds himself drawn to Hailey Erikkson, who’s got the skills and talent in the ice as well. Unbeknownst to him in the beginning, Hailey is the same woman from a one-night stand in the past that he never really forgot about, the consequences of which were even beyond his wildest imaginations.
Ben and Hailey are characters that I didn’t have problems relating with. Of course, I wouldn’t know the first thing about experiencing a potentially career-ending injury like Ben did or about losing your son to an illness and being unable to do anything to halt the disease like Hailey did. But Crista McHugh did an amazing job translating these experiences into something that the readers can grasp and can feel.
These two people are wary of venturing beyond the lines that their fears have drawn that the conflict is not only external but internal as well. It was satisfying to watch their character developments because the author made me understand what it was they were going through and what it was they needed to overcome.
At times funny, at times tear-inducing, but an all around heartwarming read. This is the second in Crista McHugh’s the Kelly Brothers series and I will definitely come back for more.
Camille @ Girl meets Books
Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews