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Hawthorne University #1
Boyfriend Bargain
Wanted: one hot guy with rock-hard abs and a big stick.
Broke and desperate, Sugar Ryan has no use for arrogant, bad boy athletes . . . until she’s forced to bargain with the cockiest of them all.
If only he knew she was alive.
Her mission? Get on this hockey player’s radar any way possible.
Zack Morgan is the king of the ice and the bedroom—but nothing prepares him for the mystery girl who shows up everywhere he does—frat parties, his favorite bar, and finally his front door with an offer he can’t refuse. The only rule in her boyfriend bargain: no falling in love.
But after one (um, two) smoking-hot hookups, he’s done with pretending and vows to make their fake relationship real. Too bad she can’t trust a player with a reputation for breaking hearts.
Will this hockey star score his forever girl or will their Boyfriend Bargain end in heartbreak?
A standalone hockey romance.
Broke and desperate, Sugar Ryan has no use for arrogant, bad boy athletes . . . until she’s forced to bargain with the cockiest of them all.
If only he knew she was alive.
Her mission? Get on this hockey player’s radar any way possible.
Zack Morgan is the king of the ice and the bedroom—but nothing prepares him for the mystery girl who shows up everywhere he does—frat parties, his favorite bar, and finally his front door with an offer he can’t refuse. The only rule in her boyfriend bargain: no falling in love.
But after one (um, two) smoking-hot hookups, he’s done with pretending and vows to make their fake relationship real. Too bad she can’t trust a player with a reputation for breaking hearts.
Will this hockey star score his forever girl or will their Boyfriend Bargain end in heartbreak?
A standalone hockey romance.
356 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2019
About the author
Ilsa Madden-Mills
38 books15.9k followers#1 Amazon Charts, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and USA Today best-selling author Ilsa Madden-Mills pens angsty new adult and contemporary romances.
A former high school English teacher and librarian, she adores all things Pride and Prejudice, and of course, Mr. Darcy is her ultimate hero.
She's addicted to frothy coffee beverages, cheesy magnets, and any book featuring unicorns and sword-wielding females. Feel free to stalk her online. ☺
★ Sign up for her newsletter and receive insider info about new releases and exclusive giveaways
★ You can stalk her/sign up on the contact page: ilsamaddenmills.com
★ Facebook: Author Ilsa Madden-Mills
★ Join her private reader group on FB: Unicorn Girls
★ Instagram @Ilsamaddenmills
New Book News:
Dear Ava is live!
Not My Romeo is live!
I Promise You drops October 12/20
Not My Match drops January 19/21 (pre-order on Amazon)
A former high school English teacher and librarian, she adores all things Pride and Prejudice, and of course, Mr. Darcy is her ultimate hero.
She's addicted to frothy coffee beverages, cheesy magnets, and any book featuring unicorns and sword-wielding females. Feel free to stalk her online. ☺
★ Sign up for her newsletter and receive insider info about new releases and exclusive giveaways
★ You can stalk her/sign up on the contact page: ilsamaddenmills.com
★ Facebook: Author Ilsa Madden-Mills
★ Join her private reader group on FB: Unicorn Girls
★ Instagram @Ilsamaddenmills
New Book News:
Dear Ava is live!
Not My Romeo is live!
I Promise You drops October 12/20
Not My Match drops January 19/21 (pre-order on Amazon)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,713 reviews
May 2, 2019
A sports romance that has an emotional past, present, and future filled with love, lust and so much understanding moments between the characters that Ilsa has so beautifully created...
Everyone who knows me, knows that I am addicted to sports romances and my knees turn weak whenever I see that Ilsa has a new book coming out, because they always have to be somehow related to the sub-genre of sports romances. You can never go wrong with reading her novels, and this book was no exception. I will be honest, when I first read the synopsis I was a tiny bit hesitant about it. But knowing the kind of writing Ilsa writes, I just knew and had a feeling that I would not be disappointed. The chemistry of all the characters she writes and enhances from is just so magical on its own way, and there is so much passion through it as well when the reader gets to enjoy it. I am a fan of characters that have a past in which they have to try and conquer or try to move on from, and in this case you Zack Morgan has a past that he is trying to defeat and try to leave behind after meeting Sugar Ryan.
It being said, it's no surprise that these stories that Ilsa writes are one hundred percent insta-love romances that always keep me intact and in love with her writing. And when we meet Zack and Sugar for the first time, you just fall in love with the charisma and yet, strong attitude that she has. That is what keeps Z motivated to conquering her heart. They start at first acting it out, being in a fake relationship. But after being physical with each other, their true physical attraction is not to be denied. Ilsa knows how to kill the endgame of characters being true to each other. When they are just simply meant to be, not even the universe can separate them and that is the case for Zack and Sugar;
For Sugar, at first their relationship was beneficial for the aspect of her getting into her dream law school. As for Zack, this "fake" relationship is beneficial for him because he does not want any more hockey chasers to be following him. But little do they know that in reality they are just meant to be, and for Sugar being with someone after her last boyfriend who cheated on her, her heart is delicate and Zack must treat it with a tender care. For her. Zack is this strong alpha male that has all the power in the world, and in some way I find that endearing to read because having an alpha male is what makes me drool;
Overall, this was a true sports romance that that focused on the character's life the most and not the sport, which I am all down for so I don't mind that. And meeting knew characters is always good because you may also be introduced to a possible new series? Maybe Ilsa has a new series connecting to this novel coming up her sleeves, and if so I am totally down for it! Thank you to Ilsa and Social Butterfly PR for letting me read this novel in advance, looking forward to Ilsa's future books!
ARC kindly provided by the publicist, in exchange for an honest review...
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Everyone who knows me, knows that I am addicted to sports romances and my knees turn weak whenever I see that Ilsa has a new book coming out, because they always have to be somehow related to the sub-genre of sports romances. You can never go wrong with reading her novels, and this book was no exception. I will be honest, when I first read the synopsis I was a tiny bit hesitant about it. But knowing the kind of writing Ilsa writes, I just knew and had a feeling that I would not be disappointed. The chemistry of all the characters she writes and enhances from is just so magical on its own way, and there is so much passion through it as well when the reader gets to enjoy it. I am a fan of characters that have a past in which they have to try and conquer or try to move on from, and in this case you Zack Morgan has a past that he is trying to defeat and try to leave behind after meeting Sugar Ryan.
It being said, it's no surprise that these stories that Ilsa writes are one hundred percent insta-love romances that always keep me intact and in love with her writing. And when we meet Zack and Sugar for the first time, you just fall in love with the charisma and yet, strong attitude that she has. That is what keeps Z motivated to conquering her heart. They start at first acting it out, being in a fake relationship. But after being physical with each other, their true physical attraction is not to be denied. Ilsa knows how to kill the endgame of characters being true to each other. When they are just simply meant to be, not even the universe can separate them and that is the case for Zack and Sugar;
"I cup her face and kiss her like she's really mine, like she's coming home with me like she's dying for me to touch her just as much as I'm dying for her..."
For Sugar, at first their relationship was beneficial for the aspect of her getting into her dream law school. As for Zack, this "fake" relationship is beneficial for him because he does not want any more hockey chasers to be following him. But little do they know that in reality they are just meant to be, and for Sugar being with someone after her last boyfriend who cheated on her, her heart is delicate and Zack must treat it with a tender care. For her. Zack is this strong alpha male that has all the power in the world, and in some way I find that endearing to read because having an alpha male is what makes me drool;
"There's an earthy dominant warrior quality to him, one that calls to the softness in me. He's confident and has purpose, and shit, he wants me. I know it in the way he can't take his eyes off me..."
Overall, this was a true sports romance that that focused on the character's life the most and not the sport, which I am all down for so I don't mind that. And meeting knew characters is always good because you may also be introduced to a possible new series? Maybe Ilsa has a new series connecting to this novel coming up her sleeves, and if so I am totally down for it! Thank you to Ilsa and Social Butterfly PR for letting me read this novel in advance, looking forward to Ilsa's future books!
ARC kindly provided by the publicist, in exchange for an honest review...
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May 3, 2019
MY REVIEW AND OTHERS: can also be found on my blog: ➽ KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
BOYFRIEND BARGAIN: Is a full length sports romance novel by Isla Madden-MillsIn this we meet Zack Morgan aka Z and quirky Sugar Ryan. These two are polar opposites..One is in the limelight the other prefers nights watching Game of Thrones whilst eating her way through doritos and ding dongs. He's the King of Ice and I'm just ... no one.
Zack Morgan is taking the hockey world by storm, the hot shot around campus, he's NHL's number one draft pick who are even willing to wait a year for him to finish up his senior year at Hawthorn University, one of the most prestigious and expensive colleges in the Midwest.
Twenty-one year old Sugar Ryan is a shy southern belle studying pre-law and born on the wrong side of the tracks and has clawed her way to where she is by sheer determination Girls like me who were raised in a trailer park on the wrong side of town with a strong tenacity to claw our way out. and the will to stick it to her father who walked away from her and her mother when she was eleven years old, she's strived to show him and his other family that she can do it without him in her life ever since.
But now life has decided to throw her another curve ball and she's backed up against a wall and desperate, she'd applied to Vanderbilt Law School but was waitlisted. BUT she has a plan up her sleeve to change all that.
Enter Zach he's going to be the one to help her get into her school of choice, he just doesn't know it yet. She has to somehow convince him to become her fake boyfriend.
A wee bit of stalking later, she corners him down at a Kappa house party and sets her plan in motion. The boyfriend bargain is set in glue but those plans come with a set of rules. No sex,, a few kisses here and there, and a strictly one month rule, no use of the name babe, and absolutely above all else no falling in love.
This should be easy right? But sometimes rules are made to be broken. And Zack plans on doing just that. She ticks all my boxes. She's introverted and awkward and funny-everything I didn't know I liked.
God I loved this!! If you love #HOT ice hockey #JOCKS then look no further than this book!! This hit me in all the feels. Once I started this I didn’t put it down, seconds, minutes, hours, ceased to exist.
It flowed perfectly, I connected with the characters fully, I fell in love head over heels. I devoured this in record time.
* Teaser used is off the authors facebook page *
May 7, 2019
*****FIVE STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
She’s everything.
She’s Mine.
She’s a symbol of me getting life right.
My Love, my hope. Always.
If you love sports romances about sinfully sexy and cocky as hell hockey players as much as I do, then BOYFRIEND BARGAIN by Ilsa Madden-Mills is right up your alley. Zack Morgan is the captain of his university’s hockey team and all-around big man on campus. He’s got a lengthy list of coeds looking to warm his bed but no one has been able to steal his heart. He’s plagued by some serious guilt over a tragic accident from a few years back and it’s bleeding into his everyday life and affecting his game.
Sugar Ryan, didn’t grow up with a silver spoon in her mouth like the rest of the kids who go to her university. She’s had to work her butt off to pay for her tuition and has her sights on attending Vanderbilt Law School after graduation. Sugar is on the wait list and thinks that with a little help from the biggest player on the hockey team, that she might be able to finagle an acceptance letter. The only obstacle is that she and Zack don’t run in the same social circles, but she’s determined to get his help.
They meet at a frat party and soon enough sparks are flying. These two have crazy chemistry. You feel it from the moment they find themselves within a few feet of each other. Sugar asks Zack to be her fake boyfriend for a while just so that she can impress Vanderbilt’s Dean of Admissions, but she’s not fooling anyone but herself. Zack and Sugar are 100% into each other and you feel it from the very beginning.
Zack is the epitome of a book boyfriend readers fall head over heels in love with. He’s funny, alpha, gorgeous, and just a bit broken. When he falls in love with a woman, there’s nothing he wouldn’t do to win her heart. I think he just might be my favorite of all of Ilsa Madden-Mill’s Heroes. Sugar is a strong Heroine with an endearing sweetness to her as well. She is a challenge for Zack, who is used to women falling at his feet. I loved these characters and found their story to be truly addictive.
Here are my overall ratings:
Heroes: 5
Heroine: 4.5
Plot: 5
Angst: 5
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5+++++
BOYFRIEND BARGAIN is currently available and not to be missed!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2DMnEuO
Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/BoyfriendBargain
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
She’s everything.
She’s Mine.
She’s a symbol of me getting life right.
My Love, my hope. Always.
If you love sports romances about sinfully sexy and cocky as hell hockey players as much as I do, then BOYFRIEND BARGAIN by Ilsa Madden-Mills is right up your alley. Zack Morgan is the captain of his university’s hockey team and all-around big man on campus. He’s got a lengthy list of coeds looking to warm his bed but no one has been able to steal his heart. He’s plagued by some serious guilt over a tragic accident from a few years back and it’s bleeding into his everyday life and affecting his game.
Sugar Ryan, didn’t grow up with a silver spoon in her mouth like the rest of the kids who go to her university. She’s had to work her butt off to pay for her tuition and has her sights on attending Vanderbilt Law School after graduation. Sugar is on the wait list and thinks that with a little help from the biggest player on the hockey team, that she might be able to finagle an acceptance letter. The only obstacle is that she and Zack don’t run in the same social circles, but she’s determined to get his help.
They meet at a frat party and soon enough sparks are flying. These two have crazy chemistry. You feel it from the moment they find themselves within a few feet of each other. Sugar asks Zack to be her fake boyfriend for a while just so that she can impress Vanderbilt’s Dean of Admissions, but she’s not fooling anyone but herself. Zack and Sugar are 100% into each other and you feel it from the very beginning.
Zack is the epitome of a book boyfriend readers fall head over heels in love with. He’s funny, alpha, gorgeous, and just a bit broken. When he falls in love with a woman, there’s nothing he wouldn’t do to win her heart. I think he just might be my favorite of all of Ilsa Madden-Mill’s Heroes. Sugar is a strong Heroine with an endearing sweetness to her as well. She is a challenge for Zack, who is used to women falling at his feet. I loved these characters and found their story to be truly addictive.
Here are my overall ratings:
Heroes: 5
Heroine: 4.5
Plot: 5
Angst: 5
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5+++++
BOYFRIEND BARGAIN is currently available and not to be missed!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2DMnEuO
Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/BoyfriendBargain
Read
May 18, 2019NOW a TOP 8 Amazon Bestseller! #1 in New Adult and College Age Romance: A steamy standalone college hockey romance!
Boyfriend Bargain is FREE IN KU!
✔️ Hot College Hockey Player
✔️ Fake Relationship
✔️ STEAMY
✔️ Emotional
Buy Links:
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/2VfHZ6g
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2H0JCMA
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/2Y4KPYQ
Get Boyfriend Bargain NOW! FREE in KINDLE UNLIMITED! <3
➜ Add to your TBR: http://bit.ly/BoyfriendBargainIlsa
Photo credit to @elizabethsprettylittlereads on IG! Thank you! xoxo
Boyfriend Bargain is FREE IN KU!
✔️ Hot College Hockey Player
✔️ Fake Relationship
✔️ STEAMY
✔️ Emotional
Buy Links:
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/2VfHZ6g
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2H0JCMA
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/2Y4KPYQ
Get Boyfriend Bargain NOW! FREE in KINDLE UNLIMITED! <3
➜ Add to your TBR: http://bit.ly/BoyfriendBargainIlsa
Photo credit to @elizabethsprettylittlereads on IG! Thank you! xoxo
May 7, 2019
5 Stars!
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR)
Sugar Ryan is a 21 yr. old southern girl from Alabama who is attending collage at one of the most prestigious, expensive schools in the midwest. Hawthorne University is located in the small town of Sparrow Lake, in Minnesota. Sugar has worked hard for everything she has, and is in her senior year of pre-law when she realizes she needs some help to make her dreams come true. She doesn't date bad boy athletes, but she's desperate, and feels her school's hockey star is the key to getting everything she wants. The only problem is he doesn't know she exists, so her mission is to get herself on his radar and make a bargain with him. She's an introvert, so she just has to work up the nerve to introduce herself to him, and make her move.
Zack Morgan is known as the king of the ice as the number one pick in the NHL. He's captain of the Hawthorne University hockey team, and has a reputation for being a player and a heartbreaker. Lately he's been too in his head, and in a dark place where he's caught up in the past. Everyone depended on him to be the best, and he was tired of all the pressure and attention. He just wanted to be left alone. Then he meets a beautiful mystery woman that he finds intriguing and irresistible. She's everywhere he turns lately, and she seems to be watching him. When they finally meet she has a unique proposition for him. One that will allow him to focus on school and winning the National Championship.
Zack agrees to an arrangement with Sugar with set rules. The main rule in the boyfriend bargain is no falling in love. They will keep things simple, and keep emotions out of it. That's easier said than done when a connection forms between them. They are drawn to one another, and their chemistry is explosive. One touch and Z can't resist her. Soon she's consuming him completely. There's just something about her, and he's never felt this way before. A couple steamy encounters, and all their plans of pretending are shot. Their fake relationship starts to feel real, and everything quickly gets complicated. Will they stick to the deal, or decide to take a chance on love?
-He is... so intense and beautiful.
-He's hot as hell and it slams into you when you look at him, like a great wind in a hurricane.
-There's nothing pretend about how much I want him.
-Each time we kiss, it's as if it's the first time, and I'm baffled by the intense desire that rises up inside me.
-I don't even know this wild creature I've become. I don't know anything but this feeling, this sensation, this man.
Boyfriend Bargain by Ilsa Madden-Mills is a sexy standalone hockey romance full of delicious banter and intense heat. It is an emotional, fabulous story I couldn't put down. Ilsa has become one of my go to authors and one of my favorites I love to read! This story was no different. It completely captivated me and was an easy 5 stars for me. These characters were beautiful and this story was addictive! I adored Z, and would also love a book for Eric! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2IY23n8
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR)
Sugar Ryan is a 21 yr. old southern girl from Alabama who is attending collage at one of the most prestigious, expensive schools in the midwest. Hawthorne University is located in the small town of Sparrow Lake, in Minnesota. Sugar has worked hard for everything she has, and is in her senior year of pre-law when she realizes she needs some help to make her dreams come true. She doesn't date bad boy athletes, but she's desperate, and feels her school's hockey star is the key to getting everything she wants. The only problem is he doesn't know she exists, so her mission is to get herself on his radar and make a bargain with him. She's an introvert, so she just has to work up the nerve to introduce herself to him, and make her move.
Zack Morgan is known as the king of the ice as the number one pick in the NHL. He's captain of the Hawthorne University hockey team, and has a reputation for being a player and a heartbreaker. Lately he's been too in his head, and in a dark place where he's caught up in the past. Everyone depended on him to be the best, and he was tired of all the pressure and attention. He just wanted to be left alone. Then he meets a beautiful mystery woman that he finds intriguing and irresistible. She's everywhere he turns lately, and she seems to be watching him. When they finally meet she has a unique proposition for him. One that will allow him to focus on school and winning the National Championship.
Zack agrees to an arrangement with Sugar with set rules. The main rule in the boyfriend bargain is no falling in love. They will keep things simple, and keep emotions out of it. That's easier said than done when a connection forms between them. They are drawn to one another, and their chemistry is explosive. One touch and Z can't resist her. Soon she's consuming him completely. There's just something about her, and he's never felt this way before. A couple steamy encounters, and all their plans of pretending are shot. Their fake relationship starts to feel real, and everything quickly gets complicated. Will they stick to the deal, or decide to take a chance on love?
-He is... so intense and beautiful.
-He's hot as hell and it slams into you when you look at him, like a great wind in a hurricane.
-There's nothing pretend about how much I want him.
-Each time we kiss, it's as if it's the first time, and I'm baffled by the intense desire that rises up inside me.
-I don't even know this wild creature I've become. I don't know anything but this feeling, this sensation, this man.
Boyfriend Bargain by Ilsa Madden-Mills is a sexy standalone hockey romance full of delicious banter and intense heat. It is an emotional, fabulous story I couldn't put down. Ilsa has become one of my go to authors and one of my favorites I love to read! This story was no different. It completely captivated me and was an easy 5 stars for me. These characters were beautiful and this story was addictive! I adored Z, and would also love a book for Eric! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2IY23n8
May 3, 2019
We’re in a bubble, the two of us, and everyone around us seems irrelevant—or at least that’s my perception.
I can’t. Ilsa Madden-Mills has once again KILLED me with her writing. Boyfriend Bargain is the PERFECT new adult college sports romance. Ilsa writes Z and Sugar in a way that makes them truly feel like the only two people in the world. Are they perfect characters? No. But their flaws feel relatable and not tedious as sometimes can happen in new adult. Their romance starts off with sparks and fire, but it isn’t only that. The banter. I can’t with the banter. It’s two people who are so tense and wary of each other, but their heat is witty and hot. There’s this connection between them that they can’t resist and it truly is so intense. I swear the naughty bits in this book were so damn hot. They weren’t over the top or crazy, but they were so good. I could feel the passion between these two characters pouring from the pages. It was intense how much I could feel their need for each other.
Sugar is relatable in so many ways, and a heroine you want to be friends with. I was equal parts rooting for her and screaming my advice at her. Like just let yourself love girl!! You deserve all the good things!!
Z is the big man on campus who could care less about being the big man on campus. He’s outwardly that guy, but inside he’s deep. Honestly deep seems like a weak description, but it’s also the perfect one.
So this is essentially a fake relationship read, and we know how those go. They don’t stay fake for long. Sugar is reluctant though, because of a cheating ex, and Z has secrets of his own. The point being is that these two don’t plan on things evolving past fake, but they do. They get there slowly and passionately. Each of these characters have so much personal depth that’s explored and growth that happens throughout the story. The banter is amazing. The naughty bits are INTENSELY HOT. The love story and the individual character plots are entertaining, and the cast of side characters insured that there was never a dull moment.
It’s an up and down ride, but the character’s love and story is so worth the bumps. Highly recommend.
https://instagram.com/p/Bw4dW-WgeYF/
^fan edit on IG!
AVAILABLE NOW!!!
*ARC
I can’t. Ilsa Madden-Mills has once again KILLED me with her writing. Boyfriend Bargain is the PERFECT new adult college sports romance. Ilsa writes Z and Sugar in a way that makes them truly feel like the only two people in the world. Are they perfect characters? No. But their flaws feel relatable and not tedious as sometimes can happen in new adult. Their romance starts off with sparks and fire, but it isn’t only that. The banter. I can’t with the banter. It’s two people who are so tense and wary of each other, but their heat is witty and hot. There’s this connection between them that they can’t resist and it truly is so intense. I swear the naughty bits in this book were so damn hot. They weren’t over the top or crazy, but they were so good. I could feel the passion between these two characters pouring from the pages. It was intense how much I could feel their need for each other.
Sugar is relatable in so many ways, and a heroine you want to be friends with. I was equal parts rooting for her and screaming my advice at her. Like just let yourself love girl!! You deserve all the good things!!
Z is the big man on campus who could care less about being the big man on campus. He’s outwardly that guy, but inside he’s deep. Honestly deep seems like a weak description, but it’s also the perfect one.
So this is essentially a fake relationship read, and we know how those go. They don’t stay fake for long. Sugar is reluctant though, because of a cheating ex, and Z has secrets of his own. The point being is that these two don’t plan on things evolving past fake, but they do. They get there slowly and passionately. Each of these characters have so much personal depth that’s explored and growth that happens throughout the story. The banter is amazing. The naughty bits are INTENSELY HOT. The love story and the individual character plots are entertaining, and the cast of side characters insured that there was never a dull moment.
It’s an up and down ride, but the character’s love and story is so worth the bumps. Highly recommend.
https://instagram.com/p/Bw4dW-WgeYF/
^fan edit on IG!
AVAILABLE NOW!!!
*ARC
May 11, 2019
***** 4.5 Stars!!!!****
I loved this book!!! I truly did! Z was such a sweetheart and definitely earned a spot with my top favourite heroes! The only reason I docked a half a star was Sugar. ( our heroine) I kind of felt like it was always Zack chasing her...I would have loved to see her do a grand gesture for him! Other than that I really adored their romance. Their sexual chemistry was combustible and majorly off the charts! Holy hell, when these two did the deed, fireworks exploded!
I’m not usually the biggest fan when it comes to sports romances, but I felt this story had just the right amount of hockey vs romance... there wasn’t any time where I needed to skim through hockey jargon!
I highly recommend this read, and it is going down as one of my book favourites of the year!!! ( trust me, there isn’t many right now!)
I loved this book!!! I truly did! Z was such a sweetheart and definitely earned a spot with my top favourite heroes! The only reason I docked a half a star was Sugar. ( our heroine) I kind of felt like it was always Zack chasing her...I would have loved to see her do a grand gesture for him! Other than that I really adored their romance. Their sexual chemistry was combustible and majorly off the charts! Holy hell, when these two did the deed, fireworks exploded!
I’m not usually the biggest fan when it comes to sports romances, but I felt this story had just the right amount of hockey vs romance... there wasn’t any time where I needed to skim through hockey jargon!
I highly recommend this read, and it is going down as one of my book favourites of the year!!! ( trust me, there isn’t many right now!)
May 6, 2019
Boyfriend Bargain was an amazing read! I have loved all the books I’ve read by Ilsa Madden-Mills. This book was yet another book that I loved by the author. Boyfriend Bargain is a new adult sports romance that is hot, emotional, addictive, funny and unique.
Sugar and Zack are great characters. Sugar is smart, feisty and caring. She knows what she wants to be later and she will make that happen. She studies and works hard for it. Zack works hard to be the best in hockey and he hopes to go pro. He is famous at college because of his hockey. Sugar doesn’t care about Zack’s reputation, which isn’t something Zack is used to. Zack is interested in Sugar, but she tries to keep her distant. She doesn’t want to get hurt again.
I adored Sugar and Zack, individually and as a couple! Both of them didn’t always have the easiest life. That made it even better and more beautiful how Sugar and Zack found each other and love with each other. The road to their happily ever after wasn’t always easy. There are secrets. Sugar is also a girl who likes to run away from Zack.
The secondary characters were also great. They made the book complete. I loved the friendships between all of them. Their friends made me smile multiple times. I hope that there will be books for some of the secondary characters. I’m curious about some of their pasts and futures.
-- My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. --
Sugar and Zack are great characters. Sugar is smart, feisty and caring. She knows what she wants to be later and she will make that happen. She studies and works hard for it. Zack works hard to be the best in hockey and he hopes to go pro. He is famous at college because of his hockey. Sugar doesn’t care about Zack’s reputation, which isn’t something Zack is used to. Zack is interested in Sugar, but she tries to keep her distant. She doesn’t want to get hurt again.
I adored Sugar and Zack, individually and as a couple! Both of them didn’t always have the easiest life. That made it even better and more beautiful how Sugar and Zack found each other and love with each other. The road to their happily ever after wasn’t always easy. There are secrets. Sugar is also a girl who likes to run away from Zack.
The secondary characters were also great. They made the book complete. I loved the friendships between all of them. Their friends made me smile multiple times. I hope that there will be books for some of the secondary characters. I’m curious about some of their pasts and futures.
-- My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. --
May 9, 2019
Trying to catch up on reviews... Vacation set me back🙃😋 So short and sweet on the next couple
I devoured this read. This author always has a way to get me to fall in love and she definitely didn't disappoint with this one. I love sports, I love sexy men, and I love books that capture my attention.
This is a read, if you a sports romance lover, you can not miss!! Pick it up today!!!
I devoured this read. This author always has a way to get me to fall in love and she definitely didn't disappoint with this one. I love sports, I love sexy men, and I love books that capture my attention.
This is a read, if you a sports romance lover, you can not miss!! Pick it up today!!!
May 17, 2019
Zack has one year of college left. Then it's off to the NHL.
Sugar desperately wants to get into law school. But she's been waitlisted. She needs Zack to play her fake boyfriend to impress the dean!
There's mega insta attraction between Sugar and Zack, but for Sugar it's all about getting into law school and Zack? He's reminded of someone else when he's looking at Sugar. He hasn't really dealt with everything in his past yet. Plus he's really busy trying to win the championship this year.
But of course, as we all know, once those two start fake-dating, those fake-feelings will turn into real-feelings...
... and the reader has a great time watching those two 'not-falling-for-each-other'. LOL!
Adorable college sports romance - with some verrry sexy and adorable moments and some very serious and heartbreaking moments.
It wasn't anything new or über exciting. I've read a million sexy and funny and serious sports romances. BUT - I love those books!!!! I loved Zack and Sugar - I loved the roommates and the besties. The brother and that Veronica person pissed me off a bit. But I really adored the story! I even had to cry a bit here and there. There are some very real-life problems in this story.
I wouldn't mind seeing this on Netflix one day. *CoughNoahCentineoCoughEvenThoughHeLooksNothingLikeZack*
BOYFRIEND BARGAIN was an adorable & fun & sexy & moving college hockey romance!
Run to your nearest amazon for your own Zack - this one is MINE!
There were some tiny problems that stopped me from giving the whole five stars.
First ... the thing I always complain about in romances, but it will never change, because it's romance law I guess. There's this lie or lie of omission or misunderstanding, and instead of talking about things early on, they don't and end up fighting or breaking up later! Ugh. I hate that. But it belongs in these kinds of books!
The other thing. I hate nothing more than religion and even though this book is not religious and I'm sure the author didn't mean to write a Christian Romance - the word GOD appears SIXTY FOUR TIMES in this book! 64!!!!! Plus a handful of Jesuses thrown in. I know we all use God as a curse word or whatever - I do too, but it was just way too much. Sixty Four. That's ridiculous. Maybe Ilsa did intend to write a Christian Romance! Or she secretly and psychologically tried to recruit us for her religious cult!☺
Too much - an editor should've cut at least half of them. Exchanged them for something else! Jeez is a good word. Doesn't have to be God all the time! I didn't like that at all.
Oh and another little thing - there were a few ten dollar words in here that I had never seen/heard in my life and I doubt a 21 year old kid would use them in conversation with another 21 year old.
♡
♡
May 5, 2019
Ahhhh this book oh my gosh!!
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
I’ve read a few books by this author and every single time they get better. Ilsa Madden-Mills is one of those authors who’s books are different from the others and ones that’ll call your attention straight away.
The Boyfriend Bargain was so much more than I expected. A fake relationship, a whole lot of laughs and sexiness mixed with emotions. Sadness and anger make up parts of this book and when they do, they gut you. It’s upsetting and horrible and simply heartbreaking to read about.
Zack and Sugar’s story is a ride you’ll definitely want to be on. She’s closed off from love after everything she’s experienced and seen happening. She keeps her heart locked up and away from any future hurt. He’s the kind of guy who can get any woman he wants and his eyes just happen to land upon her but he has secrets, secrets that could rip everything from underneath him.
Watching these two from the beginning has been a real pleasure, watching them interact and be together is fun and beautiful and I enjoyed this book, I really did but there’s one part that just annoyed the hell out of me...and that part was how much of a pushover she was for him especially after everything that went down she just let him do whatever he wanted because he was there near her and I hate that, it’s sad to see her drop all her feelings because she’s strong a woman and she does this all because this guy comes back and decides to throw himself on her again and then still not explain a damn thing to her.
So with the exception of that little bit everything about this book was perfect. I mean, you know one is doing their thing properly when you get ticked off by a fictional character, I love feeling these emotions.
Also, I would absolutely love a book from Eric, this guy seems like he’s so much fun.
Ilsa did incredible with this book. This woman puts her all into every book she gives us and it’s clear to see.
The Boyfriend Bargain is fun, sweet and captivating. It’s sad and heartbreaking and it will leave you wanting so much more from them.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
I’ve read a few books by this author and every single time they get better. Ilsa Madden-Mills is one of those authors who’s books are different from the others and ones that’ll call your attention straight away.
The Boyfriend Bargain was so much more than I expected. A fake relationship, a whole lot of laughs and sexiness mixed with emotions. Sadness and anger make up parts of this book and when they do, they gut you. It’s upsetting and horrible and simply heartbreaking to read about.
Zack and Sugar’s story is a ride you’ll definitely want to be on. She’s closed off from love after everything she’s experienced and seen happening. She keeps her heart locked up and away from any future hurt. He’s the kind of guy who can get any woman he wants and his eyes just happen to land upon her but he has secrets, secrets that could rip everything from underneath him.
Watching these two from the beginning has been a real pleasure, watching them interact and be together is fun and beautiful and I enjoyed this book, I really did but there’s one part that just annoyed the hell out of me...and that part was how much of a pushover she was for him especially after everything that went down she just let him do whatever he wanted because he was there near her and I hate that, it’s sad to see her drop all her feelings because she’s strong a woman and she does this all because this guy comes back and decides to throw himself on her again and then still not explain a damn thing to her.
So with the exception of that little bit everything about this book was perfect. I mean, you know one is doing their thing properly when you get ticked off by a fictional character, I love feeling these emotions.
Also, I would absolutely love a book from Eric, this guy seems like he’s so much fun.
Ilsa did incredible with this book. This woman puts her all into every book she gives us and it’s clear to see.
The Boyfriend Bargain is fun, sweet and captivating. It’s sad and heartbreaking and it will leave you wanting so much more from them.
May 1, 2019
Gah!! Ilsa Madden Mills has the magic touch! Her books are sexy, filled to the brim with banter to die for and characters you can't get enough of. Furthermore, the swoony moments always have me smiling from ear to ear while reading. Boyfriend Bargain was no different as I could not get enough of Zach and Sugar and their combustible chemistry and strong emotional connection.
When Hawthorne University's Hockey team Captain aka D-bag of the century, Zach Morgan, is propositioned by Sugar Ryan in an offer he can't refuse he never could have expected the sassy and sexy pre-law student to bring him to his knees. But with past emotional baggage and deep, dark secrets between them, their boyfriend bargain may bomb right before their eyes!
You guys!! This story was so delicious!! Zach was hot and delicious af. He was strong, assertive and knew what he wanted. The sexual chemistry between them sizzled off the pages. I love how Sugar knew what she wanted and went for it. She was strong and never pulled her punches with Zach. She gave as good as she got. At times, I did feel like her stubbornness was frustrating but I enjoyed her connection with Zach and comraderie with their group of friends.
While I loved Zach and his rugged alpha male personality, I loved how Mills masterfully portrayed his anxiety and mental health issues realistically. Despite not loving the "secret" he kept from Sugar (and how incredibly hurtful it was for her) I did love that he was an OTT alpha who was also deliciously human and subject to pain and deeper emotions. He faced his own demons and darkness and came out on top. Overall this was a great story with an underlying message of hope and perseverance. Bravo! 4.5 stars! ~Ratula
When Hawthorne University's Hockey team Captain aka D-bag of the century, Zach Morgan, is propositioned by Sugar Ryan in an offer he can't refuse he never could have expected the sassy and sexy pre-law student to bring him to his knees. But with past emotional baggage and deep, dark secrets between them, their boyfriend bargain may bomb right before their eyes!
You guys!! This story was so delicious!! Zach was hot and delicious af. He was strong, assertive and knew what he wanted. The sexual chemistry between them sizzled off the pages. I love how Sugar knew what she wanted and went for it. She was strong and never pulled her punches with Zach. She gave as good as she got. At times, I did feel like her stubbornness was frustrating but I enjoyed her connection with Zach and comraderie with their group of friends.
While I loved Zach and his rugged alpha male personality, I loved how Mills masterfully portrayed his anxiety and mental health issues realistically. Despite not loving the "secret" he kept from Sugar (and how incredibly hurtful it was for her) I did love that he was an OTT alpha who was also deliciously human and subject to pain and deeper emotions. He faced his own demons and darkness and came out on top. Overall this was a great story with an underlying message of hope and perseverance. Bravo! 4.5 stars! ~Ratula
June 20, 2022
5 Intoxicating Stars
QUICK, SUCH A DEAL!!! Only 99 CENTS!!!
* * * * * Spoiler Free
Ok, so I had so many plans for this day off from work...Things to do, things I needed to do...and yet when I found out Ilsa Madden-Mills released the Boyfriend Bargain, my plans took a backseat. Yup, I went and clicked that baby and started it with feet up, the day going into the evening, and was Sorry, Not Sorry one little bit.
You see, when something really clicks for me, I will dive right in... it could be my strength or weakness, the jury is out on that... but seriously, the love of a strong, engrossing read makes my day.
Sugar Ryan had a goal. Her mama told her she was good enough and never let others dictate how she felt about herself. Sugar was raised by a single mother who made the mistake of falling in love with a man who was already taken, had too much money for his own good, and never appreciated her as he should have. Sugar saw what that type of love for another could do to a person, and she was not going to let that happen to her. She lost her mother at age eleven and then was raised by her mom's best friend. She grew up strong, smart, scrappy, and able to take care of herself. Smart as a whip, she was in her senior year at Hawthorne University with her goal close at hand...Vanderbilt Law School.
Sugar had a plan and she just needed to pull up her big girl panties and make it happen. Which is why she has been at every place Zack Morgan has been over the last few weeks.
Zack Morgan has always been in control. He rules the ice as the captain of the college hockey team. He already has been picked for the NHL and was so good, he convinced them to wait a year so he could bring his college teammates the championship they barely lost last year. Now he has all of this pressure on him, and his own personal stuff he has been able to close off and push down is rearing its ugly head causing him to lose that control he needs.
His problem isn't talent, he has that...
His problem isn't friends, everyone wants to be his...
And he certainly has no issues with the women, he can't keep them away...
But with this season being it for him, with all of this pressure...cracks are beginning to happen and the past mistakes he keeps locked down won't stay there, he needs some help.
When Sugar and Zack finally first talk, the electricity crackles and what Sugar planned to do goes out the window. Words didn't work and when actions took place instead...She took off, not accomplishing anything she had planned. When the dust settled, Sugar felt the need to contact Zack and just figure out another way to make her goal a reality without him.
But when Sugar finally explains why he had seen her everywhere, he has her tell him why. Her idea was smart, he thought...and he was so taken by Sugar that he decided then and there her concept of a fake relationship could work in his favor, too...after all, she could block all the jersey chasers freeing him to train and focus on the season. Plus Sugar was something special and being around her was a huge plus to for him
Stunned by the ease of Zack's agreement, Sugar makes sure while they are creating their rules... the main part of this boyfriend bargain was a strict No Falling In Love.
Well, boys and girls, this is the setup and foundation for this tale...but oh, there is more. Each of these characters has their own issues and they are part of who they are. Each has had to work to handle or overcome them and in many ways, these issues have made them stronger in their fight to conquer them.
There is much to appreciate... the intense feeling of the first flirt, kiss, and more with someone you are discovering for the first time. The intensity jumps off the page and it works because of the environment and ages of the characters. College seniors are so young...everything is intense. From the start of this book, I felt it all. The good between Zack and Sugar, the ick of jealous girls,
bro-friendship of the players, and Sugar's friends and woman who raised her. All of it was there...
And so was the chemistry between Zack and Sugar...sexy times off the wall good...with equally sweet and endearing moments with the way these two were real with each other.
I spent the day with a silly grin on my face while reading most of this. I then facepalmed, cared, was concerned, wanted to shake some sense into both, and was then settled. Many a time I had to remember, YOUNG PEOPLE...
This Sunday did not go as planned...and am I sorry... So Not Sorry as I was able to kick back, be in the moment and be taken away. Now I want more from Ilsa Madden-Mills. I want the other characters' stories, so get right on that, please...
Boyfriend Bargain (Hawthorne University, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Boyfriend Material (Hawthorne University, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Had to Click Click to get my own Z....
❤️💕❤️💕❤️❤️💕❤️💕❤️❤️💕❤️💕❤️❤️💕❤️💕❤️
When a gal wants to get into the most prestigious law school...
What would work to get her noticed...
Would Excellent Grades...Maybe
Would doing Special Projects for Extra Credit...Possibly
Would having the Top King of the Ice, Zach Morgan as Her Boyfriend...Absolutely
Now the trick will be getting Z to pay attention to her...
When Zach keeps seeing this girl all the time, it throws him off...
But having her show up at his place takes it to another level...
Words are exchanged...
Ideas shared...
And both have specific needs which need to be fulfilled...
The answer for both of them is the...
Boyfriend Bargain-May 5, 2019
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
QUICK, SUCH A DEAL!!! Only 99 CENTS!!!
* * * * * Spoiler Free
Ok, so I had so many plans for this day off from work...Things to do, things I needed to do...and yet when I found out Ilsa Madden-Mills released the Boyfriend Bargain, my plans took a backseat. Yup, I went and clicked that baby and started it with feet up, the day going into the evening, and was Sorry, Not Sorry one little bit.
You see, when something really clicks for me, I will dive right in... it could be my strength or weakness, the jury is out on that... but seriously, the love of a strong, engrossing read makes my day.
Sugar Ryan had a goal. Her mama told her she was good enough and never let others dictate how she felt about herself. Sugar was raised by a single mother who made the mistake of falling in love with a man who was already taken, had too much money for his own good, and never appreciated her as he should have. Sugar saw what that type of love for another could do to a person, and she was not going to let that happen to her. She lost her mother at age eleven and then was raised by her mom's best friend. She grew up strong, smart, scrappy, and able to take care of herself. Smart as a whip, she was in her senior year at Hawthorne University with her goal close at hand...Vanderbilt Law School.
Sugar had a plan and she just needed to pull up her big girl panties and make it happen. Which is why she has been at every place Zack Morgan has been over the last few weeks.
Zack Morgan has always been in control. He rules the ice as the captain of the college hockey team. He already has been picked for the NHL and was so good, he convinced them to wait a year so he could bring his college teammates the championship they barely lost last year. Now he has all of this pressure on him, and his own personal stuff he has been able to close off and push down is rearing its ugly head causing him to lose that control he needs.
His problem isn't talent, he has that...
His problem isn't friends, everyone wants to be his...
And he certainly has no issues with the women, he can't keep them away...
But with this season being it for him, with all of this pressure...cracks are beginning to happen and the past mistakes he keeps locked down won't stay there, he needs some help.
When Sugar and Zack finally first talk, the electricity crackles and what Sugar planned to do goes out the window. Words didn't work and when actions took place instead...She took off, not accomplishing anything she had planned. When the dust settled, Sugar felt the need to contact Zack and just figure out another way to make her goal a reality without him.
But when Sugar finally explains why he had seen her everywhere, he has her tell him why. Her idea was smart, he thought...and he was so taken by Sugar that he decided then and there her concept of a fake relationship could work in his favor, too...after all, she could block all the jersey chasers freeing him to train and focus on the season. Plus Sugar was something special and being around her was a huge plus to for him
Stunned by the ease of Zack's agreement, Sugar makes sure while they are creating their rules... the main part of this boyfriend bargain was a strict No Falling In Love.
Well, boys and girls, this is the setup and foundation for this tale...but oh, there is more. Each of these characters has their own issues and they are part of who they are. Each has had to work to handle or overcome them and in many ways, these issues have made them stronger in their fight to conquer them.
There is much to appreciate... the intense feeling of the first flirt, kiss, and more with someone you are discovering for the first time. The intensity jumps off the page and it works because of the environment and ages of the characters. College seniors are so young...everything is intense. From the start of this book, I felt it all. The good between Zack and Sugar, the ick of jealous girls,
bro-friendship of the players, and Sugar's friends and woman who raised her. All of it was there...
And so was the chemistry between Zack and Sugar...sexy times off the wall good...with equally sweet and endearing moments with the way these two were real with each other.
I spent the day with a silly grin on my face while reading most of this. I then facepalmed, cared, was concerned, wanted to shake some sense into both, and was then settled. Many a time I had to remember, YOUNG PEOPLE...
This Sunday did not go as planned...and am I sorry... So Not Sorry as I was able to kick back, be in the moment and be taken away. Now I want more from Ilsa Madden-Mills. I want the other characters' stories, so get right on that, please...
Boyfriend Bargain (Hawthorne University, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Boyfriend Material (Hawthorne University, #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Had to Click Click to get my own Z....
❤️💕❤️💕❤️❤️💕❤️💕❤️❤️💕❤️💕❤️❤️💕❤️💕❤️
When a gal wants to get into the most prestigious law school...
What would work to get her noticed...
Would Excellent Grades...Maybe
Would doing Special Projects for Extra Credit...Possibly
Would having the Top King of the Ice, Zach Morgan as Her Boyfriend...Absolutely
Now the trick will be getting Z to pay attention to her...
When Zach keeps seeing this girl all the time, it throws him off...
But having her show up at his place takes it to another level...
Words are exchanged...
Ideas shared...
And both have specific needs which need to be fulfilled...
The answer for both of them is the...
Boyfriend Bargain-May 5, 2019
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
July 19, 2022
Z was as good as his cover photo!
A great cover photo starts off a book in just the right place. It makes it easy to imagine that hot guy especially if his description matches the cover photo. Zach’s hair was described perfectly and I could picture that guy walking into a party and all action sort of stopping and the sizzle of excitement amping up like something important was happening or a celebrity had arrived.
His history with his girlfriend that died and overwhelming guilt causing anxiety issues that he had within him to flare up and get out of control was an interesting plot line. The fact that Sugar was interested in using him as a fake boyfriend and she just happened to look like the girlfriend that died increased the intrigue and you just know that was heading for problems. I won’t give away spoilers from later in the book, but I enjoyed the story.
The romance was extremely hot 🥵 between the two main characters. They didn’t have that “should we” or “shouldn’t we” back and forth for most of the book like some romances. They couldn’t stop themselves a few times while being intimate, which was awesome. Also the friends were funny, I especially liked Zach’s friend Eric. I really liked this book and the characters.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Amazon|Twitter|BookBub
A great cover photo starts off a book in just the right place. It makes it easy to imagine that hot guy especially if his description matches the cover photo. Zach’s hair was described perfectly and I could picture that guy walking into a party and all action sort of stopping and the sizzle of excitement amping up like something important was happening or a celebrity had arrived.
His history with his girlfriend that died and overwhelming guilt causing anxiety issues that he had within him to flare up and get out of control was an interesting plot line. The fact that Sugar was interested in using him as a fake boyfriend and she just happened to look like the girlfriend that died increased the intrigue and you just know that was heading for problems. I won’t give away spoilers from later in the book, but I enjoyed the story.
The romance was extremely hot 🥵 between the two main characters. They didn’t have that “should we” or “shouldn’t we” back and forth for most of the book like some romances. They couldn’t stop themselves a few times while being intimate, which was awesome. Also the friends were funny, I especially liked Zach’s friend Eric. I really liked this book and the characters.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Amazon|Twitter|BookBub
May 5, 2019
“There’s something going on between us that’s …I don’t know…interesting. I knew it the moment I saw you.”
“I want you.”
Boyfriend Bargain was such a highly anticipated read for me; sports romances are my kryptonite that I just can’t ever resist, especially hockey players who kill it on the ice. Ilsa Madden-Mills is such a phenomenal writer. I always find myself being drawn into her smart and sophisticated story lines and her well thought-out and developed characters that I always love getting to know. This story hooked me from the very start and kept me utterly captivated right up until the very last word was read. Anyone who loves their new adult college sports romances will just devour this story about the heartbreaking super star hockey player and the college student who is trying to achieve her dreams.
Zack Morgan is the star hockey player at Hawthorne University and the NHL’s number one draft pick. He is surrounded by love and praise; men want to be him, and women want to be with him. He’s known around campus as a player with so many broken hearts following in his wake.
If there was ever a polar opposite to Z it would be Sugar Ryan. She is an intelligent and shy pre-law student who has so much willpower and determination to the point where I consider her an inspiration. Her hard work is evident considering she has come from a trailer park to one of the most expensive and prestigious universities in the country. She has applied to the Vanderbilt Law School, which is the final stepping stone for her to truly achieve her dreams. This is a mammoth effort considering she has had to do it all on her own. Unfortunately, Sugar has been waitlisted in order to attend Vanderbilt and may need the help of one particular star hockey player to seal the deal.
I absolutely loved and adored Zack and Sugars relationship from their very first encounter. Their intense and powerful chemistry was truly electrifying and the attraction was positively magnetic. Zack is drawn to Sugar by forces he can’t possibly understand. She intrigues in ways he’s never felt before and the more time he spends with her, the more he can’t seem to resist the quirky and introverted Sugar. Sugar does not date star athletes, but needs him and the more she opens up, the more she wants Zack too.
Boyfriend Bargain was such an enjoyable read filled with a lot of fun and witty banter, hot and steamy scenes, and a deep and profound connection between two people who were as different as night and day. Their attraction and sexual tension was fierce and I could not get enough of these two. They were utter perfection. If you’re anything like me and love your sports romances than look no further than the Boyfriend Bargain. I highly recommend one clicking your copy today.
February 7, 2020
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: I think I've gotten to the point where I don't expect much out of college athlete stories because I've been so disappointed lately. The silver lining in that is that I wasn't disappointed! It wasn't horrible or anything, it just won't be finding its home on my favorites shelf. I do appreciate, however, that Ms. Madden-Mills included an mc with mental health issues. This isn't something that I expected and I appreciated feeling that the mc was more human because of it. My biggest issue by far was the conflict being resolved too easily with little to no grovel! The conflict itself made me not really like the H and question his behavior. And the fact that the h didn't demand communication or groveling made me not like her as much as well! And then that was it! I hate when books go straight from a conflict that is way too easily resolved (IMO) straight to an epilogue. I could probably go on and on and start a major rant about this, but I'm just going to move on. This was 3 "just okay" Stars for me.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Sugar and Z's story. Sugar needs a fake boyfriend to help her get into law school and Z is just the hockey star that she needs. Z is shocked to see the familiar face at a party after seeing Sugar around and he starts his pursuit. They get hot and heavy quickly but Sugar eventually proposes her plan. Z agrees in exchange for her being his "girl of the month" like the rumors claim he always has in order to keep girls away and his mind completely on winning the hockey championship before going pro. There are some big secrets revealed, some sad moments, some sexy times...and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Sugar and Z's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good (until end of conflict). I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: Kind of, but not the kind that is annoying to me.
H (Hero) rating: 3 stars. Z. I liked him until the conflict. I didn't understand his behavior and I didn't feel like he made up for it by the end.
h (heroine) rating: 3 stars. Sugar. I liked her but I wanted her to demand more answers and better communication.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: Not IMO
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had alright closure with what I would call a HEA ending. I wanted more of a glimpse into them working out their future after the quick resolution to their conflict.
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
Overall Opinion: I think I've gotten to the point where I don't expect much out of college athlete stories because I've been so disappointed lately. The silver lining in that is that I wasn't disappointed! It wasn't horrible or anything, it just won't be finding its home on my favorites shelf. I do appreciate, however, that Ms. Madden-Mills included an mc with mental health issues. This isn't something that I expected and I appreciated feeling that the mc was more human because of it. My biggest issue by far was the conflict being resolved too easily with little to no grovel! The conflict itself made me not really like the H and question his behavior. And the fact that the h didn't demand communication or groveling made me not like her as much as well! And then that was it! I hate when books go straight from a conflict that is way too easily resolved (IMO) straight to an epilogue. I could probably go on and on and start a major rant about this, but I'm just going to move on. This was 3 "just okay" Stars for me.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Sugar and Z's story. Sugar needs a fake boyfriend to help her get into law school and Z is just the hockey star that she needs. Z is shocked to see the familiar face at a party after seeing Sugar around and he starts his pursuit. They get hot and heavy quickly but Sugar eventually proposes her plan. Z agrees in exchange for her being his "girl of the month" like the rumors claim he always has in order to keep girls away and his mind completely on winning the hockey championship before going pro. There are some big secrets revealed, some sad moments, some sexy times...and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Sugar and Z's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good (until end of conflict). I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: Kind of, but not the kind that is annoying to me.
H (Hero) rating: 3 stars. Z. I liked him until the conflict. I didn't understand his behavior and I didn't feel like he made up for it by the end.
h (heroine) rating: 3 stars. Sugar. I liked her but I wanted her to demand more answers and better communication.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: Not IMO
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had alright closure with what I would call a HEA ending. I wanted more of a glimpse into them working out their future after the quick resolution to their conflict.
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
May 4, 2019
LIVE EARLY!
US: https://amzn.to/2PMjUxQ
UK: https://amzn.to/2JaPwMm
Boyfriend Bargain is a NA sports romance focused around Zach 'Z' Morgan and Sugar Ryan. Z is the campus legend that's already been drafted into the NHL while Sugar is the quiet hard worker that just wants to make it into law school. Which is why she needs Z to be her fake boyfriend. Except there is nothing fake about the chemistry between them when she finally finds the courage to approach him.
Both of these characters had some pretty deep hurts but I really liked how they were dealt with. That pain wasn't made a big focus in the book but it was always there as we got to know Z and Sugar and we got to see how they were trying to move on with their life. Especially for Z, what he was dealing with was clearly a big part of his life but the story never stopped to focus on just that. It's hard to explain, but I just really liked how every aspect of these characters was incorporated together.
Bottom line, this was a really fun book to read and I loved the relationship that Sugar and Z had. I liked that it had a bit of role reversal when Z became the one trying to convince Sugar to stick around after she was the one seeking him out. Also I don't think this will be a series but there are definitely some characters that I think need stories so I really hope that happens.
US: https://amzn.to/2PMjUxQ
UK: https://amzn.to/2JaPwMm
Boyfriend Bargain is a NA sports romance focused around Zach 'Z' Morgan and Sugar Ryan. Z is the campus legend that's already been drafted into the NHL while Sugar is the quiet hard worker that just wants to make it into law school. Which is why she needs Z to be her fake boyfriend. Except there is nothing fake about the chemistry between them when she finally finds the courage to approach him.
Both of these characters had some pretty deep hurts but I really liked how they were dealt with. That pain wasn't made a big focus in the book but it was always there as we got to know Z and Sugar and we got to see how they were trying to move on with their life. Especially for Z, what he was dealing with was clearly a big part of his life but the story never stopped to focus on just that. It's hard to explain, but I just really liked how every aspect of these characters was incorporated together.
Bottom line, this was a really fun book to read and I loved the relationship that Sugar and Z had. I liked that it had a bit of role reversal when Z became the one trying to convince Sugar to stick around after she was the one seeking him out. Also I don't think this will be a series but there are definitely some characters that I think need stories so I really hope that happens.
Read
May 6, 2019NOW LIVE and Free in Kindle Unlimited: A standalone college hockey romance from Ilsa Madden-Mills!
Wall Street Journal bestselling author Ilsa Madden-Mills returns with an all-new swoon-fest of a novel about what happens when you take a chance on love.
Wanted: one hot guy with rock-hard abs and a big stick.
Broke and desperate, Sugar Ryan has no use for arrogant, bad-boy athletes…until she’s forced to bargain with the cockiest of them all.
If only he knew she was alive.
Her mission? Get on this hockey player’s radar any way possible.
Zack Morgan is the king of the ice and the bedroom, but nothing prepares him for the mystery girl who shows up everywhere he does—frat parties, his favorite bar, and finally his front door with an offer he can’t refuse. The only rule in her boyfriend bargain: no falling in love.
But after one (um, two) smoking-hot hookups, he’s done with pretending and vows to make their fake relationship real. Too bad she can’t trust a player with a reputation for breaking hearts.
Will this hockey star score his forever girl, or will this boyfriend bargain end in heartbreak?
Buy Links:
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/2VfHZ6g
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2H0JCMA
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/2Y4KPYQ
Wall Street Journal bestselling author Ilsa Madden-Mills returns with an all-new swoon-fest of a novel about what happens when you take a chance on love.
Wanted: one hot guy with rock-hard abs and a big stick.
Broke and desperate, Sugar Ryan has no use for arrogant, bad-boy athletes…until she’s forced to bargain with the cockiest of them all.
If only he knew she was alive.
Her mission? Get on this hockey player’s radar any way possible.
Zack Morgan is the king of the ice and the bedroom, but nothing prepares him for the mystery girl who shows up everywhere he does—frat parties, his favorite bar, and finally his front door with an offer he can’t refuse. The only rule in her boyfriend bargain: no falling in love.
But after one (um, two) smoking-hot hookups, he’s done with pretending and vows to make their fake relationship real. Too bad she can’t trust a player with a reputation for breaking hearts.
Will this hockey star score his forever girl, or will this boyfriend bargain end in heartbreak?
Buy Links:
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/2VfHZ6g
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2H0JCMA
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/2Y4KPYQ
September 8, 2020
5 Sugar Baby Stars !
I'm always looking forward to books that make me feel.
Feel better, feel emotional, feel heartbroken, feel excited, feel happy, feel complete and feel part of something bigger than me.
Just feel.
A few authors have my back when it comes to my deep feelings and thoughts, and Mrs. Madden-Mills is one of these authors.
Boyfriend Bargain is another emotional journey between a college hockey player and an introverted but sassy college girl.
Their beginning is funny and unconventional, but as soon as they're together, their chemistry is undeniable, and what was suppose to be fake, becomes very real.
I loved their banter and their happy moments, they're a perfect fit since first encounter, but I have to say that what draws me to this story, was Zack's backstory with grief and his anxiety.
Sugar was burned before and have a really hard time to trust in other man.
Zack in the other hand, doesn't think that he deserves happiness and is dealing with his own darkness.
The survivor's guilty is a real thing.
His struggles to get his mess together, and be the Captain and the best that he could be for his team, was a perfect portrait of how pressure can really mess with someone's head. His panic attacks, his ways of coping things and get all his thoughts alined, is something that I can relate with.
I loved how this book makes me feel, and I'm really happy to see that mental illness is something that you can talk about in romance novels, be brave, live with and have a HEA.
And obviously with another epilogue that make me swoon over my Kindle.
I'm always looking forward to books that make me feel.
Feel better, feel emotional, feel heartbroken, feel excited, feel happy, feel complete and feel part of something bigger than me.
Just feel.
A few authors have my back when it comes to my deep feelings and thoughts, and Mrs. Madden-Mills is one of these authors.
Boyfriend Bargain is another emotional journey between a college hockey player and an introverted but sassy college girl.
Their beginning is funny and unconventional, but as soon as they're together, their chemistry is undeniable, and what was suppose to be fake, becomes very real.
I loved their banter and their happy moments, they're a perfect fit since first encounter, but I have to say that what draws me to this story, was Zack's backstory with grief and his anxiety.
Sugar was burned before and have a really hard time to trust in other man.
Zack in the other hand, doesn't think that he deserves happiness and is dealing with his own darkness.
The survivor's guilty is a real thing.
His struggles to get his mess together, and be the Captain and the best that he could be for his team, was a perfect portrait of how pressure can really mess with someone's head. His panic attacks, his ways of coping things and get all his thoughts alined, is something that I can relate with.
I loved how this book makes me feel, and I'm really happy to see that mental illness is something that you can talk about in romance novels, be brave, live with and have a HEA.
And obviously with another epilogue that make me swoon over my Kindle.
May 2, 2019
4 solid stars
I have read another book in the college hockey world some weeks ago: The Risk by Elle Kennedy. It seems that I have a thing for hockey right now! If the center plot for said bargain was similar you won't mistake one for another.
The characters are completely different for once and the backstories could not be more unrelated.
Now that's been said what is the Boyfriend Bargain about and why should you read it?
First it is about a hockey player Zack or Z, star of his college and already drafted by the NHL. Of course as an athlete he is muscled (yum!), very tall and looks like a killer vicking. Just look at the cover and I think you'll get a fair idea of his mighty fine physique and sex appeal! :-D
BUT
Z is so much more than a hot bod! Deep down he is a very good guy who has lived a drama that left him vulnerable. He has flaws ladies and gents and that's my favorite kind of hero!
Yet if the man has issues he also is a warrior and quitting is simply not in his blood. He is really determined to overcome his limitations and be the master of his life again!
I think that's the quality that I admired most about Z: his tenacity.
Enters Sugar!
I so loved her name! She comes from the South and it could not have been better chosen.
Not because she is all sweet and soft. But because she craves sugary treats. That's a girl following my heart! LOL
Sugar is tall, beautiful in that southern way but has been through enough in her life to have a steely backbone.
She has had a very difficult childhood and has been abandoned by her coward of a sperm donor! Her mom died when she was not even a teenager and she's been uprooted to Minnesota to be raised by her mom's best friend Mara owner of a strip club!
Sugar is a very independent and prideful woman. She knows what she wants and you can't help to admire that strong heroine.
When Z and Sugar meet it will be explosive and off the charts hot! They detonate and will do many times in the book. They are like a powder barrel! But it won't only be because of sexual chemistry! Both their wounds and past will make them alternate between scorching heat and times apart.
No one said love was easy and that's so true with these two!
I really liked this story thanks to the characters.
They were portrayed in such way that they felt real and both very likable. Z might be a hockey god he was not perfect and insufferable. Deep down below that iron will and vicking warrior body beats a tender hearts. And that's what made the book so touching: the mistakes, the flaws, the struggles...the journey!
Have you read books by this author? Do you like sportsromance? Flawed heroes?
Sophie
Find me on:
Wordpress: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook group : Beware Book Boyfriends Alert
Instagram: @bewareofthereader
Twitter: @BewareOffReader
I have read another book in the college hockey world some weeks ago: The Risk by Elle Kennedy. It seems that I have a thing for hockey right now! If the center plot for said bargain was similar you won't mistake one for another.
The characters are completely different for once and the backstories could not be more unrelated.
Now that's been said what is the Boyfriend Bargain about and why should you read it?
First it is about a hockey player Zack or Z, star of his college and already drafted by the NHL. Of course as an athlete he is muscled (yum!), very tall and looks like a killer vicking. Just look at the cover and I think you'll get a fair idea of his mighty fine physique and sex appeal! :-D
BUT
Z is so much more than a hot bod! Deep down he is a very good guy who has lived a drama that left him vulnerable. He has flaws ladies and gents and that's my favorite kind of hero!
Yet if the man has issues he also is a warrior and quitting is simply not in his blood. He is really determined to overcome his limitations and be the master of his life again!
I think that's the quality that I admired most about Z: his tenacity.
Enters Sugar!
I so loved her name! She comes from the South and it could not have been better chosen.
Not because she is all sweet and soft. But because she craves sugary treats. That's a girl following my heart! LOL
Sugar is tall, beautiful in that southern way but has been through enough in her life to have a steely backbone.
She has had a very difficult childhood and has been abandoned by her coward of a sperm donor! Her mom died when she was not even a teenager and she's been uprooted to Minnesota to be raised by her mom's best friend Mara owner of a strip club!
Sugar is a very independent and prideful woman. She knows what she wants and you can't help to admire that strong heroine.
When Z and Sugar meet it will be explosive and off the charts hot! They detonate and will do many times in the book. They are like a powder barrel! But it won't only be because of sexual chemistry! Both their wounds and past will make them alternate between scorching heat and times apart.
No one said love was easy and that's so true with these two!
I really liked this story thanks to the characters.
They were portrayed in such way that they felt real and both very likable. Z might be a hockey god he was not perfect and insufferable. Deep down below that iron will and vicking warrior body beats a tender hearts. And that's what made the book so touching: the mistakes, the flaws, the struggles...the journey!
Have you read books by this author? Do you like sportsromance? Flawed heroes?
Thanks for reading!
Sophie
Find me on:
Wordpress: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook group : Beware Book Boyfriends Alert
Instagram: @bewareofthereader
Twitter: @BewareOffReader
Read
May 7, 2019NOW LIVE and Free in Kindle Unlimited: A standalone college hockey romance from Ilsa Madden-Mills!
Wall Street Journal bestselling author Ilsa Madden-Mills returns with an all-new swoon-fest of a novel about what happens when you take a chance on love.
Wanted: one hot guy with rock-hard abs and a big stick.
Broke and desperate, Sugar Ryan has no use for arrogant, bad-boy athletes…until she’s forced to bargain with the cockiest of them all.
If only he knew she was alive.
Her mission? Get on this hockey player’s radar any way possible.
Zack Morgan is the king of the ice and the bedroom, but nothing prepares him for the mystery girl who shows up everywhere he does—frat parties, his favorite bar, and finally his front door with an offer he can’t refuse. The only rule in her boyfriend bargain: no falling in love.
But after one (um, two) smoking-hot hookups, he’s done with pretending and vows to make their fake relationship real. Too bad she can’t trust a player with a reputation for breaking hearts.
Will this hockey star score his forever girl, or will this boyfriend bargain end in heartbreak?
Buy Links:
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/2VfHZ6g
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2H0JCMA
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/2Y4KPYQ
Wall Street Journal bestselling author Ilsa Madden-Mills returns with an all-new swoon-fest of a novel about what happens when you take a chance on love.
Wanted: one hot guy with rock-hard abs and a big stick.
Broke and desperate, Sugar Ryan has no use for arrogant, bad-boy athletes…until she’s forced to bargain with the cockiest of them all.
If only he knew she was alive.
Her mission? Get on this hockey player’s radar any way possible.
Zack Morgan is the king of the ice and the bedroom, but nothing prepares him for the mystery girl who shows up everywhere he does—frat parties, his favorite bar, and finally his front door with an offer he can’t refuse. The only rule in her boyfriend bargain: no falling in love.
But after one (um, two) smoking-hot hookups, he’s done with pretending and vows to make their fake relationship real. Too bad she can’t trust a player with a reputation for breaking hearts.
Will this hockey star score his forever girl, or will this boyfriend bargain end in heartbreak?
Buy Links:
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/2VfHZ6g
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2H0JCMA
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/2Y4KPYQ
Read
May 4, 2019NOW LIVE and Free in Kindle Unlimited: A standalone college hockey romance from Ilsa Madden-Mills!
Wall Street Journal bestselling author Ilsa Madden-Mills returns with an all-new swoon-fest of a novel about what happens when you take a chance on love.
Wanted: one hot guy with rock-hard abs and a big stick.
Broke and desperate, Sugar Ryan has no use for arrogant, bad-boy athletes…until she’s forced to bargain with the cockiest of them all.
If only he knew she was alive.
Her mission? Get on this hockey player’s radar any way possible.
Zack Morgan is the king of the ice and the bedroom, but nothing prepares him for the mystery girl who shows up everywhere he does—frat parties, his favorite bar, and finally his front door with an offer he can’t refuse. The only rule in her boyfriend bargain: no falling in love.
But after one (um, two) smoking-hot hookups, he’s done with pretending and vows to make their fake relationship real. Too bad she can’t trust a player with a reputation for breaking hearts.
Will this hockey star score his forever girl, or will this boyfriend bargain end in heartbreak?
Buy Links:
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/2VfHZ6g
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2H0JCMA
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/2Y4KPYQ
Wall Street Journal bestselling author Ilsa Madden-Mills returns with an all-new swoon-fest of a novel about what happens when you take a chance on love.
Wanted: one hot guy with rock-hard abs and a big stick.
Broke and desperate, Sugar Ryan has no use for arrogant, bad-boy athletes…until she’s forced to bargain with the cockiest of them all.
If only he knew she was alive.
Her mission? Get on this hockey player’s radar any way possible.
Zack Morgan is the king of the ice and the bedroom, but nothing prepares him for the mystery girl who shows up everywhere he does—frat parties, his favorite bar, and finally his front door with an offer he can’t refuse. The only rule in her boyfriend bargain: no falling in love.
But after one (um, two) smoking-hot hookups, he’s done with pretending and vows to make their fake relationship real. Too bad she can’t trust a player with a reputation for breaking hearts.
Will this hockey star score his forever girl, or will this boyfriend bargain end in heartbreak?
Buy Links:
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/2VfHZ6g
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2H0JCMA
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/2Y4KPYQ
May 4, 2019
This story was everything that’s good about romance. I laughed. I cried. I swooned and I squirmed. Perfection ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ilsa is a one click author for me and stories like this one are why. She always gives me more in a story than I am expecting. This was no different.
Yes it’s a college sports romance but it’s about way more than that. I love how she handled real life subjects in a respectful and honest way.
Sugar and Zack were such a believable couple. Their banter. Their chemistry. Their moments of vulnerability. Gah! I am such a happy reader right now.
I received an arc of this book.
Ilsa is a one click author for me and stories like this one are why. She always gives me more in a story than I am expecting. This was no different.
Yes it’s a college sports romance but it’s about way more than that. I love how she handled real life subjects in a respectful and honest way.
Sugar and Zack were such a believable couple. Their banter. Their chemistry. Their moments of vulnerability. Gah! I am such a happy reader right now.
I received an arc of this book.
Read
May 7, 2019NOW LIVE and Free in Kindle Unlimited: A standalone college hockey romance from Ilsa Madden-Mills!
Wall Street Journal bestselling author Ilsa Madden-Mills returns with an all-new swoon-fest of a novel about what happens when you take a chance on love.
Wanted: one hot guy with rock-hard abs and a big stick.
Broke and desperate, Sugar Ryan has no use for arrogant, bad-boy athletes…until she’s forced to bargain with the cockiest of them all.
If only he knew she was alive.
Her mission? Get on this hockey player’s radar any way possible.
Zack Morgan is the king of the ice and the bedroom, but nothing prepares him for the mystery girl who shows up everywhere he does—frat parties, his favorite bar, and finally his front door with an offer he can’t refuse. The only rule in her boyfriend bargain: no falling in love.
But after one (um, two) smoking-hot hookups, he’s done with pretending and vows to make their fake relationship real. Too bad she can’t trust a player with a reputation for breaking hearts.
Will this hockey star score his forever girl, or will this boyfriend bargain end in heartbreak?
Buy Links:
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/2VfHZ6g
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2H0JCMA
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/2Y4KPYQ
Wall Street Journal bestselling author Ilsa Madden-Mills returns with an all-new swoon-fest of a novel about what happens when you take a chance on love.
Wanted: one hot guy with rock-hard abs and a big stick.
Broke and desperate, Sugar Ryan has no use for arrogant, bad-boy athletes…until she’s forced to bargain with the cockiest of them all.
If only he knew she was alive.
Her mission? Get on this hockey player’s radar any way possible.
Zack Morgan is the king of the ice and the bedroom, but nothing prepares him for the mystery girl who shows up everywhere he does—frat parties, his favorite bar, and finally his front door with an offer he can’t refuse. The only rule in her boyfriend bargain: no falling in love.
But after one (um, two) smoking-hot hookups, he’s done with pretending and vows to make their fake relationship real. Too bad she can’t trust a player with a reputation for breaking hearts.
Will this hockey star score his forever girl, or will this boyfriend bargain end in heartbreak?
Buy Links:
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/2VfHZ6g
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2H0JCMA
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/2Y4KPYQ
January 23, 2023
4 stars
Boyfriend Bargain was a strong start to Ilsa Madden-Mills 'Hawthorne University' series. Zack is the start of his college's hockey team and Sugar Ryan needs him to be her fake boyfriend.
This one was really light on the fake dating as the chemistry was there from the start and it didn't stay fake for long! I love a good college romance and while this one had some fun moments, it also had it's heavier moments. Zack deals with some mental health issues and keeps something pretty big from Sugar, but I liked how it all turned out. I see the next book is about Zack's best friend Eric and I am so here for that!
Boyfriend Bargain was a strong start to Ilsa Madden-Mills 'Hawthorne University' series. Zack is the start of his college's hockey team and Sugar Ryan needs him to be her fake boyfriend.
This one was really light on the fake dating as the chemistry was there from the start and it didn't stay fake for long! I love a good college romance and while this one had some fun moments, it also had it's heavier moments. Zack deals with some mental health issues and keeps something pretty big from Sugar, but I liked how it all turned out. I see the next book is about Zack's best friend Eric and I am so here for that!
Audio book source: Audible
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Savannah Peachwood & Stephen Dexter
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: NA Sports Romance
Length: 11h
August 15, 2019
Ilsa Madden-Mills’ latest story a swoony delight that is the reason why romance novels exist – to give us an escape that will hit all the right spots.
Sugar Ryan doesn’t care for athletes in general or any kind of male that’s too cocky for his own good. Especially not after her singer ex-boyfriend cheated on her. Besides, she’s all set to go to law school until she isn’t and is in need of a fake boyfriend. Not just anyone will do though. She needs the hockey god with bulging muscles, a big stick and is nicknamed the Heartbreaker. Watch out for that last part Sugar!
Hockey is Zack Morgan’s passion and priority until Sugar Ryan starts showing up everywhere he goes. Reminding him of a ghost from his past, he’s already captivated by her when she lays out her bargain which suits him just fine. She’ll keep the jersey chasers at bay, they’ll have some fun and won’t fall in love. But after a couple of intimate encounters that are undeniably raw and explosive he’s determined to win her over. Can she trust him enough to give them a chance or will a secret threaten to tear them apart?
Boyfriend Bargain is a wonderful escape. It’s sexy, witty, heartfelt and did I mention sexy? Ilsa interlaces Zack’s past distress and present pressure seamlessly into the story, making their romance feel hopeful and angsty with the freshness of young and passionate love that conquers all.
Sugar has been practically alone for most of her life developing a strong backbone while Zack has lived the past few years filled with guilt, regret and understandable anxiety. He’s also catnip for anyone who can’t resist an alpha male hero with just the right amount of sweet wit. It was wonderful to watch them find each other and explore their deep connection.
I found myself grinning at the sassy banter and sass. The sexiness is matched with equal sources of heart.
I loved the story which is filled with deep emotion and understands the need to find a partner who is understanding and supportive. I couldn’t help but cheer for them all throughout this unputdownable tale.
Boyfriend Bargain is a standalone hockey romance by Ilsa Madden-Mills. It is told from both points of view, and has a happy ending.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2H0Y0UW
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via Social Butterfly. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
➵ Cover: 5 (sexy hot hero with a sizzling gaze. Just look at him! )
➵ Blurb: 5 (Just that wanted line was enough to reel me in)
➵ Hero: 5 (He's a college hockey star with a lot of dark, but also a lot of determination and swoon worthy qualities. He's the kind of guy who'll save a cat, adopt her, take care of her but deny it!)
➵ Heroine: 5 (She's a super strong, independent woman who's overcome so much and knows what she wants)
➵ Sexiness: 5 (dirty, dirty, sexy hotness and a whole lot of it!)
➵ Feels: 5 all of them!
Sugar Ryan doesn’t care for athletes in general or any kind of male that’s too cocky for his own good. Especially not after her singer ex-boyfriend cheated on her. Besides, she’s all set to go to law school until she isn’t and is in need of a fake boyfriend. Not just anyone will do though. She needs the hockey god with bulging muscles, a big stick and is nicknamed the Heartbreaker. Watch out for that last part Sugar!
Hockey is Zack Morgan’s passion and priority until Sugar Ryan starts showing up everywhere he goes. Reminding him of a ghost from his past, he’s already captivated by her when she lays out her bargain which suits him just fine. She’ll keep the jersey chasers at bay, they’ll have some fun and won’t fall in love. But after a couple of intimate encounters that are undeniably raw and explosive he’s determined to win her over. Can she trust him enough to give them a chance or will a secret threaten to tear them apart?
Boyfriend Bargain is a wonderful escape. It’s sexy, witty, heartfelt and did I mention sexy? Ilsa interlaces Zack’s past distress and present pressure seamlessly into the story, making their romance feel hopeful and angsty with the freshness of young and passionate love that conquers all.
Sugar has been practically alone for most of her life developing a strong backbone while Zack has lived the past few years filled with guilt, regret and understandable anxiety. He’s also catnip for anyone who can’t resist an alpha male hero with just the right amount of sweet wit. It was wonderful to watch them find each other and explore their deep connection.
I found myself grinning at the sassy banter and sass. The sexiness is matched with equal sources of heart.
I loved the story which is filled with deep emotion and understands the need to find a partner who is understanding and supportive. I couldn’t help but cheer for them all throughout this unputdownable tale.
Boyfriend Bargain is a standalone hockey romance by Ilsa Madden-Mills. It is told from both points of view, and has a happy ending.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2H0Y0UW
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via Social Butterfly. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
➵ Cover: 5 (sexy hot hero with a sizzling gaze. Just look at him! )
➵ Blurb: 5 (Just that wanted line was enough to reel me in)
➵ Hero: 5 (He's a college hockey star with a lot of dark, but also a lot of determination and swoon worthy qualities. He's the kind of guy who'll save a cat, adopt her, take care of her but deny it!)
➵ Heroine: 5 (She's a super strong, independent woman who's overcome so much and knows what she wants)
➵ Sexiness: 5 (dirty, dirty, sexy hotness and a whole lot of it!)
➵ Feels: 5 all of them!
August 4, 2019
4.25 Always YOU Stars
I’ve read many books by this author, and I’m always left feeling entertained. The prologue sets the scene up for a very real issue—anxiety—and what it feels like when it gets the best of you! I like to read about relatable issues, and I sure do enjoy a good sports romance—score!
Zach’s the captain of his D-1 hockey team, in his senior year of collage, awaiting his already drafted position in the NHL. You see his struggle to move past a terrible tragedy that struck before collage. He diligently learns strategies over the last several years to manage his symptoms and emotions, and worked toward moving past his guilt, and plaguing anxiety, that threaten his future.
Sugar, (not a nickname) is a struggling collage senior, that wants nothing more than to attend her dream law school, and to move past the recent heartbreak of her first love. She thinks Zach is just the guy to help her her accomplish the former, but not about to allow him a chance at the latter. Plans have a way of changing tho...
There were sparks galore—some serious chemistry between these two! The sexy times, and dirty talk ...WHOA! I don’t usually go out of my way to read this trope, but I enjoyed this spin on a “fake boyfriend” scenario, although it was such a small aspect of the book. The push and pull, their connection and back stories, turned this story into more than I’d anticipated. Glad I picked this one up:)
I’ve read many books by this author, and I’m always left feeling entertained. The prologue sets the scene up for a very real issue—anxiety—and what it feels like when it gets the best of you! I like to read about relatable issues, and I sure do enjoy a good sports romance—score!
Zach’s the captain of his D-1 hockey team, in his senior year of collage, awaiting his already drafted position in the NHL. You see his struggle to move past a terrible tragedy that struck before collage. He diligently learns strategies over the last several years to manage his symptoms and emotions, and worked toward moving past his guilt, and plaguing anxiety, that threaten his future.
Sugar, (not a nickname) is a struggling collage senior, that wants nothing more than to attend her dream law school, and to move past the recent heartbreak of her first love. She thinks Zach is just the guy to help her her accomplish the former, but not about to allow him a chance at the latter. Plans have a way of changing tho...
There were sparks galore—some serious chemistry between these two! The sexy times, and dirty talk ...WHOA! I don’t usually go out of my way to read this trope, but I enjoyed this spin on a “fake boyfriend” scenario, although it was such a small aspect of the book. The push and pull, their connection and back stories, turned this story into more than I’d anticipated. Glad I picked this one up:)
May 3, 2019
I loved this book! Zach was so stoic, with dirty talking depths. Yummy. I appreciated that his character made himself vulnerable to Sugar and my heart ached when the sh!t hit the fan. Sugar was a strong, independent woman that was willing to go to great lengths to achieve her goals. The name of the strip club made me giggle every time it showed up in the book. I wished Sugar had reacted to Veronica differently towards the end, but it wasn't really drawn out and it seemed that Zach need that time. I'm hoping we get stories for Reece and Eric.
Want to read
May 6, 2019NOW LIVE and Free in Kindle Unlimited: A standalone college hockey romance from Ilsa Madden-Mills!
Wall Street Journal bestselling author Ilsa Madden-Mills returns with an all-new swoon-fest of a novel about what happens when you take a chance on love.
Wanted: one hot guy with rock-hard abs and a big stick.
Broke and desperate, Sugar Ryan has no use for arrogant, bad-boy athletes…until she’s forced to bargain with the cockiest of them all.
If only he knew she was alive.
Her mission? Get on this hockey player’s radar any way possible.
Zack Morgan is the king of the ice and the bedroom, but nothing prepares him for the mystery girl who shows up everywhere he does—frat parties, his favorite bar, and finally his front door with an offer he can’t refuse. The only rule in her boyfriend bargain: no falling in love.
But after one (um, two) smoking-hot hookups, he’s done with pretending and vows to make their fake relationship real. Too bad she can’t trust a player with a reputation for breaking hearts.
Will this hockey star score his forever girl, or will this boyfriend bargain end in heartbreak?
Buy Links:
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/2VfHZ6g
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2H0JCMA
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/2Y4KPYQ
Wall Street Journal bestselling author Ilsa Madden-Mills returns with an all-new swoon-fest of a novel about what happens when you take a chance on love.
Wanted: one hot guy with rock-hard abs and a big stick.
Broke and desperate, Sugar Ryan has no use for arrogant, bad-boy athletes…until she’s forced to bargain with the cockiest of them all.
If only he knew she was alive.
Her mission? Get on this hockey player’s radar any way possible.
Zack Morgan is the king of the ice and the bedroom, but nothing prepares him for the mystery girl who shows up everywhere he does—frat parties, his favorite bar, and finally his front door with an offer he can’t refuse. The only rule in her boyfriend bargain: no falling in love.
But after one (um, two) smoking-hot hookups, he’s done with pretending and vows to make their fake relationship real. Too bad she can’t trust a player with a reputation for breaking hearts.
Will this hockey star score his forever girl, or will this boyfriend bargain end in heartbreak?
Buy Links:
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/2VfHZ6g
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2H0JCMA
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/2Y4KPYQ
April 2, 2020
I really enjoyed the beginning of this book, but unfortunately, by the end I just wanted it to be over.
This book starts off with our main character, Sugar, looking for the captain of the hockey team, so she can strike up a bargain with him to pretend to be her boyfriend in order to impress the law school she got waitlisted at. For some reason, probably because she's hot, he agrees to this bargain and the story kicks off from there.
My ultimate problem with this was that the boyfriend bargain seemed to resolve too quickly, which resulted in very contrived and unnecessary conflict towards the end. This was so over the top and it really brings me back to my Wattpad roots. This isn't the hockey romance I'd recommend first, however, if you really are craving a hockey romance you might want to pick this one up.
This book starts off with our main character, Sugar, looking for the captain of the hockey team, so she can strike up a bargain with him to pretend to be her boyfriend in order to impress the law school she got waitlisted at. For some reason, probably because she's hot, he agrees to this bargain and the story kicks off from there.
My ultimate problem with this was that the boyfriend bargain seemed to resolve too quickly, which resulted in very contrived and unnecessary conflict towards the end. This was so over the top and it really brings me back to my Wattpad roots. This isn't the hockey romance I'd recommend first, however, if you really are craving a hockey romance you might want to pick this one up.
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