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Assassins #2
Trying to Score
In a captivating novel of second chances and healing hearts, the newest member of the Nashville Assassins pulls a power play to make things right with the one that got away.
Fallon Parker’s dream has always been to turn her family’s wine company into a runaway success and eventually start a cellar of her own. Since graduating from college, she has worked relentlessly to make that dream a reality, especially after taking a chance on love—and losing. By the time Fallon becomes an official sponsor of the Nashville Assassins, she feels like all her hard work is finally paying off. And then the man who broke her heart skates back into her life.
On the ice, Lucas Brooks is the NHL’s leading scorer—at least when he’s not in the box. Off the ice, he’s a mess, with all his anger and misery bottled up inside. He threw away the most important person in his life and has regretted it ever since. But when Lucas returns to Nashville in a trade, he’s determined to convince Fallon that he’s a changed man. The attraction is still there. The tension is electrifying. But the odds are stacked against them—especially after Lucas finds out that Fallon has been keeping a devastating secret.
Fallon Parker’s dream has always been to turn her family’s wine company into a runaway success and eventually start a cellar of her own. Since graduating from college, she has worked relentlessly to make that dream a reality, especially after taking a chance on love—and losing. By the time Fallon becomes an official sponsor of the Nashville Assassins, she feels like all her hard work is finally paying off. And then the man who broke her heart skates back into her life.
On the ice, Lucas Brooks is the NHL’s leading scorer—at least when he’s not in the box. Off the ice, he’s a mess, with all his anger and misery bottled up inside. He threw away the most important person in his life and has regretted it ever since. But when Lucas returns to Nashville in a trade, he’s determined to convince Fallon that he’s a changed man. The attraction is still there. The tension is electrifying. But the odds are stacked against them—especially after Lucas finds out that Fallon has been keeping a devastating secret.
578 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 10, 2012
About the author
Toni Aleo
78 books6,575 followersWALL STREET JOURNAL, NEW YORK TIMES AND USA TODAY BEST SELLING AUTHOR TONI ALEO IS AN AUTHOR YOU CAN'T MISS!
make sure to Join my Mailing List: https://www.subscribepage.com/toniale...
My name is Toni aleo and I'm a #PredHead, #sherrio, #potterhead, and part of the #familybusiness!
I am also a wife to my amazing husband, mother of a wrestler and a gymnast, and also a fur momma to Phoebe, Gaston el Papillon & Winston.
You can usually find me hollering for the whole Nashville Predators since I'll never give my heart to one player again. When I'm not in the gym getting swole, I'm usually writing, trying to make my dreams a reality or being a taxi for my kids. I'm obsessed with Harry Potter, Supernatural, Disney and anything that sparkles! I'm pretty sure I was Belle in a past life and if I could be on any show it would be supernatural so I can hunt with Sam and Dean.
Also, could I LOVE hockey anymore?
make sure to Join my Mailing List: https://www.subscribepage.com/toniale...
My name is Toni aleo and I'm a #PredHead, #sherrio, #potterhead, and part of the #familybusiness!
I am also a wife to my amazing husband, mother of a wrestler and a gymnast, and also a fur momma to Phoebe, Gaston el Papillon & Winston.
You can usually find me hollering for the whole Nashville Predators since I'll never give my heart to one player again. When I'm not in the gym getting swole, I'm usually writing, trying to make my dreams a reality or being a taxi for my kids. I'm obsessed with Harry Potter, Supernatural, Disney and anything that sparkles! I'm pretty sure I was Belle in a past life and if I could be on any show it would be supernatural so I can hunt with Sam and Dean.
Also, could I LOVE hockey anymore?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 889 reviews
January 21, 2012
I wrote this one too :) so I love it!
November 8, 2017
Frankly I'm sick of the double standards in this series. The guys can fuckaround all over place, cheat, fuck their way through hordes of women, treat their h's like absolute crap (Jordie & Erik to name just 2 of these shmucks) and yet everyone forgives every betrayal, any cheating these guys do and love them because they're such great guys. NOT!!! At least this one didn't start out a doormat like all the other morons are. She left him! And rightly so.
WTF?
She thought he cheated on her, already he was on morally shaky ground. That's not a little mistake, that's a major fucking betrayal. And on top of that, even if she tried to tell him at the time - people conveniently forget he was a drug addict & alcoholic and he remained one for years before he cleaned himself up. Was that the environment for a baby??? Get real people.
Drug Addicts who are also Alcoholics don't cleanup overnight, it's a long fucking process and they're in no shape to care for a baby or toddler. So everyone can get off their damn high horses already!!
"“Why now Lucas? Seven whole years have passed, why now?”
There was no way he could tell her while standing in her front yard the reason why he didn’t look for her after she left. Telling Fallon that he was a recovering drug addict and alcoholic did not seem like a good thing to say when trying to get someone back."
Oh and yeah, he was a total houndog slut during their time apart but you guessed, she had NO ONE because she only wanted him. Yawwwwwwwwn. Samo samo storyline.
And frankly, I despise what Lukas tells his bunch of manslut friends in Blue Lines & frankly I question his ongoing faithfulness:
"Shea shook his head. “No, I love my wife; she is enough for me.”
“Liar,” Lucas said, throwing a sock at Shea. “We are men, and we live, breathe, and think sex every chance we get. If you don’t get hot when you see a hot piece of ass, then you aren’t a man.”
I have the finest wife ever. Nice tight ass, great tits, and man, a mouth that can bring me to my knees, but when I pick my son up from school and his teacher gives me this look, I swear my cock goes so hard, man,” he said with his eyes closed, making some of the guys laugh while others shook their head. “Ah! I just want to smash something, but it goes away before I even get home."
So his woman isn't enough for him? You can see the cheating on the wall for this guy. Only a matter of time I say.
WTF?
She thought he cheated on her, already he was on morally shaky ground. That's not a little mistake, that's a major fucking betrayal. And on top of that, even if she tried to tell him at the time - people conveniently forget he was a drug addict & alcoholic and he remained one for years before he cleaned himself up. Was that the environment for a baby??? Get real people.
Drug Addicts who are also Alcoholics don't cleanup overnight, it's a long fucking process and they're in no shape to care for a baby or toddler. So everyone can get off their damn high horses already!!
"“Why now Lucas? Seven whole years have passed, why now?”
There was no way he could tell her while standing in her front yard the reason why he didn’t look for her after she left. Telling Fallon that he was a recovering drug addict and alcoholic did not seem like a good thing to say when trying to get someone back."
Oh and yeah, he was a total houndog slut during their time apart but you guessed, she had NO ONE because she only wanted him. Yawwwwwwwwn. Samo samo storyline.
And frankly, I despise what Lukas tells his bunch of manslut friends in Blue Lines & frankly I question his ongoing faithfulness:
"Shea shook his head. “No, I love my wife; she is enough for me.”
“Liar,” Lucas said, throwing a sock at Shea. “We are men, and we live, breathe, and think sex every chance we get. If you don’t get hot when you see a hot piece of ass, then you aren’t a man.”
I have the finest wife ever. Nice tight ass, great tits, and man, a mouth that can bring me to my knees, but when I pick my son up from school and his teacher gives me this look, I swear my cock goes so hard, man,” he said with his eyes closed, making some of the guys laugh while others shook their head. “Ah! I just want to smash something, but it goes away before I even get home."
So his woman isn't enough for him? You can see the cheating on the wall for this guy. Only a matter of time I say.
April 20, 2012
After reading all the good reviews, I was pretty stoked about getting a chance to read this book. I was a bit disappointed.
The book was 422 pages on my ereader, and that's about 200 pages longer than it should have been. It was 200 pages of good story, and 222 pages of beating a horse to death. (that's figuratively, not literally!!!)
Lucas and Fallon meet and fall in love at first sight. Everything's good for two years,then she catches him betraying her and runs away, not to see him again for 7 years. I'm sure if you read the synopsis you can figure out what the "big secret" is that she's been hiding for 7 years. Anyway, he gets traded to the Assassins, a hockey team in Tennessee, where Fallon has a close working relationship with the team. He's still in love with her after all these years, and wants her back.
The part I liked about this book,that earned it the extra star, was Lucas. He was a GOOD guy. There are some really sweet romantic parts in this book. I loved the thing he did with the post it notes, and how committed he was to her and building a family. He never wavered, never stopped saying it, never stopped trying.
The part that made me not want to give it ANY stars was Fallon.She was basically a screeching, self centered harpy. Yes, when she was in college,she caught him in a compromising position with her best friend. I understand how that could damage a person and kill a relationship, but (and this is where the dead dead horse carcass comes in...)she screeches about this on and on throught out the whole book. Her use of the English language deteriorates rapidly every time she gets on a tirade,which is often. About a third of the way through the book, I started to wonder WHY he was so hung up on her. She acted like a 13 year old hormonal teenager through out the entire book. She was not a likable character.
Another thing that bothered me was how ghetto they all sounded in my head during the dialogue. I'm from the south, I use the word ain't a hundred times a day. But in a business setting, I can still speak proper English. Fallon sounded like she was straight out of the trailer park, instead of the disowned heiress who went to Stanford she was supposed to be. It was totally inconsistent with who the author built the characters as, and it made them unbelievable. There were other inconsistencies with the characters as well. A nice white boy from Minnesota who plays hockey wouldn't have a gun tattooed on his hip pointing at his manly bits, and listen to gangster rap turned up so loud the house he's pulling up to at 7am rattles at the age of 28,either. He was a really great, guy, but the details about him made him sound like a punk kid. The book goes on and on about how Fallon has no money and can barely pay her bills and has to live with her sister, but she's constantly wearing designer shoes.
The basic story was good,there were a few really romantic parts in the book,but over all,it was a chore to make myself finish it.
The book was 422 pages on my ereader, and that's about 200 pages longer than it should have been. It was 200 pages of good story, and 222 pages of beating a horse to death. (that's figuratively, not literally!!!)
Lucas and Fallon meet and fall in love at first sight. Everything's good for two years,then she catches him betraying her and runs away, not to see him again for 7 years. I'm sure if you read the synopsis you can figure out what the "big secret" is that she's been hiding for 7 years. Anyway, he gets traded to the Assassins, a hockey team in Tennessee, where Fallon has a close working relationship with the team. He's still in love with her after all these years, and wants her back.
The part I liked about this book,that earned it the extra star, was Lucas. He was a GOOD guy. There are some really sweet romantic parts in this book. I loved the thing he did with the post it notes, and how committed he was to her and building a family. He never wavered, never stopped saying it, never stopped trying.
The part that made me not want to give it ANY stars was Fallon.She was basically a screeching, self centered harpy. Yes, when she was in college,she caught him in a compromising position with her best friend. I understand how that could damage a person and kill a relationship, but (and this is where the dead dead horse carcass comes in...)she screeches about this on and on throught out the whole book. Her use of the English language deteriorates rapidly every time she gets on a tirade,which is often. About a third of the way through the book, I started to wonder WHY he was so hung up on her. She acted like a 13 year old hormonal teenager through out the entire book. She was not a likable character.
Another thing that bothered me was how ghetto they all sounded in my head during the dialogue. I'm from the south, I use the word ain't a hundred times a day. But in a business setting, I can still speak proper English. Fallon sounded like she was straight out of the trailer park, instead of the disowned heiress who went to Stanford she was supposed to be. It was totally inconsistent with who the author built the characters as, and it made them unbelievable. There were other inconsistencies with the characters as well. A nice white boy from Minnesota who plays hockey wouldn't have a gun tattooed on his hip pointing at his manly bits, and listen to gangster rap turned up so loud the house he's pulling up to at 7am rattles at the age of 28,either. He was a really great, guy, but the details about him made him sound like a punk kid. The book goes on and on about how Fallon has no money and can barely pay her bills and has to live with her sister, but she's constantly wearing designer shoes.
The basic story was good,there were a few really romantic parts in the book,but over all,it was a chore to make myself finish it.
May 15, 2024
4 stars
Love is like war, easy to start and hard to stop.
Lucas and Fallon were in love. He was playing hockey for the Sharks, and she was going to college at Stanford. They were blissfully happy for two years. Until Lucas screwed up. And Fallon ran, without giving him a chance to explain.
Fast forward seven years later... Fallon Parker is working for her family’s wine company, just as she planned back in her hometown of Nashville. She has a contract with the local hockey team, The Assassins, and she is good friends with the owner, Elli Adler. Fallon finds out that her old flame, Lucas Brooks is being transferred to play for The Assassins. She hasn’t seen him in seven years. She freaks out. Not only has she not really moved on, she has been keeping a huge secret from Lucas.
Lucas has never stopped loving Fallon. He has spent the last seven years getting his self together and battling his demons. He wants Fallon back. Fallon can’t let go of the past. She has a hard time forgiving Lucas. Their relationship is complicated, but they both still have very strong feelings for one another.
Lucas Brooks
Fallon Parker
I loved Lucas Brooks! He was an amazing guy! Loving, patient, swoony and oh so sexy. He knows that he screwed up in the past, but he is being a better man and is willing to do anything to make it up to Fallon. He could be so romantic... The post it notes- omg!
“I feel like a piece of me dies everyday I go without you, Fallon.”
Fallon... I understood why she did some of the things she did, but it still frustrated me at times. She kept something pretty big from Lucas, and he forgave her, yet it took her so long to get over the past.
Yeah, after a kiss like that, he was looking at the future because he knew he had just found The One.
Fallon and Lucas had some major chemistry going on, there was some real steam in this one! They had an undeniable connection, and you really felt the heat when they were together.
Enjoyed getting more of Elli and Shea in this one! And little Aiden! Loved that boy! He was sooo adorable! Can’t wait to read the next book, I’m sure there will be much more Lucas and Fallon since the story is Audrey’s(Fallon’s little sister). A great read!
Love is like war, easy to start and hard to stop.
Lucas and Fallon were in love. He was playing hockey for the Sharks, and she was going to college at Stanford. They were blissfully happy for two years. Until Lucas screwed up. And Fallon ran, without giving him a chance to explain.
Fast forward seven years later... Fallon Parker is working for her family’s wine company, just as she planned back in her hometown of Nashville. She has a contract with the local hockey team, The Assassins, and she is good friends with the owner, Elli Adler. Fallon finds out that her old flame, Lucas Brooks is being transferred to play for The Assassins. She hasn’t seen him in seven years. She freaks out. Not only has she not really moved on, she has been keeping a huge secret from Lucas.
Lucas has never stopped loving Fallon. He has spent the last seven years getting his self together and battling his demons. He wants Fallon back. Fallon can’t let go of the past. She has a hard time forgiving Lucas. Their relationship is complicated, but they both still have very strong feelings for one another.
Lucas Brooks
Fallon Parker
I loved Lucas Brooks! He was an amazing guy! Loving, patient, swoony and oh so sexy. He knows that he screwed up in the past, but he is being a better man and is willing to do anything to make it up to Fallon. He could be so romantic... The post it notes- omg!
“I feel like a piece of me dies everyday I go without you, Fallon.”
Fallon... I understood why she did some of the things she did, but it still frustrated me at times. She kept something pretty big from Lucas, and he forgave her, yet it took her so long to get over the past.
Yeah, after a kiss like that, he was looking at the future because he knew he had just found The One.
Fallon and Lucas had some major chemistry going on, there was some real steam in this one! They had an undeniable connection, and you really felt the heat when they were together.
Enjoyed getting more of Elli and Shea in this one! And little Aiden! Loved that boy! He was sooo adorable! Can’t wait to read the next book, I’m sure there will be much more Lucas and Fallon since the story is Audrey’s(Fallon’s little sister). A great read!
September 29, 2015
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Great story line...This book could have gotten a rating of 4 stars.But the heroine...
Damn I could go on and on about how much I disliked Fallon,but since half of my friends have already pointed out her character flaws in their review,I'm going to let it go,this once.
Overall,a frustrating yet at times sweet read.
Great story line...This book could have gotten a rating of 4 stars.But the heroine...
Damn I could go on and on about how much I disliked Fallon,but since half of my friends have already pointed out her character flaws in their review,I'm going to let it go,this once.
Overall,a frustrating yet at times sweet read.
May 1, 2014
4 Second Chance Stars.
Fallon and Lucas used to have the perfect relationship. They were in love and thought that nothing could bring them apart. Until one mistake ruins everything, leaving them broken and making Fallon deciding to keep a life-changing secret from Lucas.
Now, seven years later, Lucas is starting his season in the Nashville Assassins… the hockey team that Fallon is trying to make a deal with regarding her wine business.
Life wants them to meet again… and this time Lucas is not willing to let her go and his decided to do everything to keep her in his life for good.
But how can Fallon learn to trust again when her trsut and her heart were once broken?
And when Lucas find out the secret Fallon has been keeping from him all these years, how can he trust in her?
Rating: 4 Stars.
Storyline: Sweet, romantic with some real sexy moments. The amazing thing about this book was how real their relationship felt. The memories, the private jokes, the special moments that no one else would understand, the romantic gestures… it was all wrapped up in a beautiful love story. Is not easy to make the connection between two main characters feel so real and so emotional, however, Toni Aleo did that to perfection with this book.
Writing Style: First person, dual POV. Flawless and addictive writing.
Character Development: I loved Lucas. He was sweet, and loyal with a heart of gold and so, so sexy. Fallon… well, I liked her, but she was one of the reasons I don’t rate these books 5 stars: The heroines. They are all whiny, frustrating and sometimes kind of bitch. But oh well, he read this mostly for the guys so it’s all good.
The supportive characters were pretty good, I loved Aiden and I loved seeing more of Elli and Shea. And the last chapters made me really curious about Audrey and Tate’s story.
Steam: Hot moments.
HEA:
Fallon and Lucas used to have the perfect relationship. They were in love and thought that nothing could bring them apart. Until one mistake ruins everything, leaving them broken and making Fallon deciding to keep a life-changing secret from Lucas.
Now, seven years later, Lucas is starting his season in the Nashville Assassins… the hockey team that Fallon is trying to make a deal with regarding her wine business.
Life wants them to meet again… and this time Lucas is not willing to let her go and his decided to do everything to keep her in his life for good.
But how can Fallon learn to trust again when her trsut and her heart were once broken?
And when Lucas find out the secret Fallon has been keeping from him all these years, how can he trust in her?
Rating: 4 Stars.
Storyline: Sweet, romantic with some real sexy moments. The amazing thing about this book was how real their relationship felt. The memories, the private jokes, the special moments that no one else would understand, the romantic gestures… it was all wrapped up in a beautiful love story. Is not easy to make the connection between two main characters feel so real and so emotional, however, Toni Aleo did that to perfection with this book.
Writing Style: First person, dual POV. Flawless and addictive writing.
Character Development: I loved Lucas. He was sweet, and loyal with a heart of gold and so, so sexy. Fallon… well, I liked her, but she was one of the reasons I don’t rate these books 5 stars: The heroines. They are all whiny, frustrating and sometimes kind of bitch. But oh well, he read this mostly for the guys so it’s all good.
The supportive characters were pretty good, I loved Aiden and I loved seeing more of Elli and Shea. And the last chapters made me really curious about Audrey and Tate’s story.
Steam: Hot moments.
HEA:
April 29, 2014
3 Lucas and Aiden, Hockey Franchise Stars * * *
This was the second in The Assassins series. I had read the first in the series and like a lot of the elements but had some issues with the main female character. Lots of my GR pals mentioned this one was a better read and I should give it a go. It may be a "me" thing, for once again there was an issue with the gal in this tale.
We have the set up of college sweethearts; the gal and guy are crazy in love for two years. During this time, he progresses to professional Hockey level and starts with the league... living the dream. She is a year from graduating...They have been happy and doing ok with his travels. He has been away on a long series of games and they both are desperate for each other. He comes back early looking for her...she is not in her room; her slutty roommate is... and somehow he ends up in the same bed with the slut passed out. Naturally, his sweetheart comes in... sees them... he tries to tell her he didn't even know what happened...as the slutty roommate runs away. Drama takes place... she will not stay to see what he has to say and leaves.
She finds out she is pregnant...has difficulties with her parents and luckily her sister is supportive. Together they raise the child and we learn it is 7 years later. The guy is being traded to the Assassins and the gal who is in the wine business and works with the team is freaking because....... SHE NEVER TOLD HIM HE WAS A DAD.
I have a problem with that. To not allow the guy a chance to be a dad when he is not violent or has other dangerous issues is just unfair to him and to the child in my book. If he turns away or doesn't behave appropriately then it is on him... but from the set up in the book.... that was not the case. From my perspective...I am not happy with how she handled this.
Next in the tale, our gal cannot forgive the guy for what happened in college. They meet and even when he finds out about how he missed out for 7 years bonding with the boy... he ends up forgiving her because this guy is head over heels in love with her. Still. He had drinking and prescription pills issues he hid from her... so he feels partly responsible. He did a year in rehab and has been clean for more than four years. He lays it out for her... he loves her... loves his son and wants a chance at a real family.
The majority of this book is sprinkled with amazing moments of love and care between the new dad and his sweet, charming son. There were scenes which hit my heart as a parent. I even had a discussion with one of my sons about grand kids.... that was how touching these moments were. There also were other wonderful parts to think about... things which can severely impact us; learning disabilities, parental withholding of approval to adult children... and these story lines worked.
Unfortunately, the bulk of the story was how this woman could not trust this guy... she refused to see how he was attempting through his actions to prove to her he had changed. It was a continual loop over and over again... like the most annoying gif you can find... it made my head hurt. Our gal has one scene where I wanted to wish her bodily harm as she was close to figuring out how to move on and get with the "family" program.... only to see someone in the ladies room who had done her wrong... and listened to her advice about the guy... WHAT....
So this was a disappointing read for me... for although there were lots of good things to enjoy... every time it started to come together... our gal would go back to living in that I can't trust him loop.
The franchise is very popular... and there were things which worked... it was definitely a me thing... so you might have a totally different read...
This was the second in The Assassins series. I had read the first in the series and like a lot of the elements but had some issues with the main female character. Lots of my GR pals mentioned this one was a better read and I should give it a go. It may be a "me" thing, for once again there was an issue with the gal in this tale.
We have the set up of college sweethearts; the gal and guy are crazy in love for two years. During this time, he progresses to professional Hockey level and starts with the league... living the dream. She is a year from graduating...They have been happy and doing ok with his travels. He has been away on a long series of games and they both are desperate for each other. He comes back early looking for her...she is not in her room; her slutty roommate is... and somehow he ends up in the same bed with the slut passed out. Naturally, his sweetheart comes in... sees them... he tries to tell her he didn't even know what happened...as the slutty roommate runs away. Drama takes place... she will not stay to see what he has to say and leaves.
She finds out she is pregnant...has difficulties with her parents and luckily her sister is supportive. Together they raise the child and we learn it is 7 years later. The guy is being traded to the Assassins and the gal who is in the wine business and works with the team is freaking because....... SHE NEVER TOLD HIM HE WAS A DAD.
I have a problem with that. To not allow the guy a chance to be a dad when he is not violent or has other dangerous issues is just unfair to him and to the child in my book. If he turns away or doesn't behave appropriately then it is on him... but from the set up in the book.... that was not the case. From my perspective...I am not happy with how she handled this.
Next in the tale, our gal cannot forgive the guy for what happened in college. They meet and even when he finds out about how he missed out for 7 years bonding with the boy... he ends up forgiving her because this guy is head over heels in love with her. Still. He had drinking and prescription pills issues he hid from her... so he feels partly responsible. He did a year in rehab and has been clean for more than four years. He lays it out for her... he loves her... loves his son and wants a chance at a real family.
The majority of this book is sprinkled with amazing moments of love and care between the new dad and his sweet, charming son. There were scenes which hit my heart as a parent. I even had a discussion with one of my sons about grand kids.... that was how touching these moments were. There also were other wonderful parts to think about... things which can severely impact us; learning disabilities, parental withholding of approval to adult children... and these story lines worked.
Unfortunately, the bulk of the story was how this woman could not trust this guy... she refused to see how he was attempting through his actions to prove to her he had changed. It was a continual loop over and over again... like the most annoying gif you can find... it made my head hurt. Our gal has one scene where I wanted to wish her bodily harm as she was close to figuring out how to move on and get with the "family" program.... only to see someone in the ladies room who had done her wrong... and listened to her advice about the guy... WHAT....
So this was a disappointing read for me... for although there were lots of good things to enjoy... every time it started to come together... our gal would go back to living in that I can't trust him loop.
The franchise is very popular... and there were things which worked... it was definitely a me thing... so you might have a totally different read...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Shelved as 'never-to-read'
June 25, 2013
DNF.
Lucas Brooks knew that Fallon Parker was the one for him, the first night he met her. Then he comes back home to her dorm and finds her roommate and best friend there. He knows he should leave, but when the roommate wraps her arms around him:
"He couldn’t help but hold her closer than he needed to.
When her lips touched his, he didn’t think, he just reacted, and it was the last thing he remembered."
This is just unbelievable!
I just couldn’t help it!
I couldn’t control myself.
It was just a reaction.
What sort of a justification is that?
And as usual, when anything goes wrong, blame it on the intoxication. I am so impressed with the ingenuity.
And of course, even though he knew Fallon was the one, he goes back to the drugs, alcohol and the multitude of women. He is such a prize!
They were such empty words: “the one”. I mean who believes that. In which society is it okay to go sleeping around with every female you see, when you have already found your one and only. And that's the thing, you just don’t go around sleeping with everyone else when you have found your “one”. It's not okay.
There was also blatant double standard. The first night Fallon and Lucas sleep together, she is worried that she is being sluttish. Then she tells Lucas that she isn’t like this, she doesn’t sleep with a guy the first time they meet. And to this Lucas replies, that it’s okay, he believes her and that’s all it matters.
I am sorry? Did women’s rights rewind 200 years? Why the hell is she trying to justify herself to him? What is there to justify? And what about the fact that HE SLEPT WITH HER ON THE FIRST NIGHT TOO! Why isn’t he justifying himself to her?
This is the first ARC I have DNF-ed. I hope it's the last.
ARC Courtesy of NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group.
Lucas Brooks knew that Fallon Parker was the one for him, the first night he met her. Then he comes back home to her dorm and finds her roommate and best friend there. He knows he should leave, but when the roommate wraps her arms around him:
"He couldn’t help but hold her closer than he needed to.
When her lips touched his, he didn’t think, he just reacted, and it was the last thing he remembered."
This is just unbelievable!
I just couldn’t help it!
I couldn’t control myself.
It was just a reaction.
What sort of a justification is that?
And as usual, when anything goes wrong, blame it on the intoxication. I am so impressed with the ingenuity.
And of course, even though he knew Fallon was the one, he goes back to the drugs, alcohol and the multitude of women. He is such a prize!
They were such empty words: “the one”. I mean who believes that. In which society is it okay to go sleeping around with every female you see, when you have already found your one and only. And that's the thing, you just don’t go around sleeping with everyone else when you have found your “one”. It's not okay.
There was also blatant double standard. The first night Fallon and Lucas sleep together, she is worried that she is being sluttish. Then she tells Lucas that she isn’t like this, she doesn’t sleep with a guy the first time they meet. And to this Lucas replies, that it’s okay, he believes her and that’s all it matters.
I am sorry? Did women’s rights rewind 200 years? Why the hell is she trying to justify herself to him? What is there to justify? And what about the fact that HE SLEPT WITH HER ON THE FIRST NIGHT TOO! Why isn’t he justifying himself to her?
This is the first ARC I have DNF-ed. I hope it's the last.
ARC Courtesy of NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group.
March 1, 2016
1 star
Audiobook- terrible narrator- the horrible MC had this nasal thing going ARGUH !
Hated it, but I finished it anyway
The heroine was a snappish, rude, petty, disgusting woman who keep her son from his father because she was angry. She lies, to her son to his father, to her friends and she never drops one damn issue no matter how old and stale is is. When she wasn't cutting somebody down to nothing she was giggling, yes giggling, this author really like her giggles. I don't think one page went without one. He giggled, she giggled, they all effing giggled !
The sex was enough to make cringe, no sexy tingles here. ICK the descriptions, the words used Eewwww. I just wanted it to stop !
To think that Fallon the most despicable woman character I've read could get this great guy to be so devoted to her no matter how much she abuses him, is sick. I hated her, hated how she treated everyone, hated how it was accepted all through the book, I HATED IT. I don't want to read about such crap people dishing out crap and the Do Goods Eating it up.
Well, that sums it up. I am not going to read any more books form this author.
Audiobook- terrible narrator- the horrible MC had this nasal thing going ARGUH !
Hated it, but I finished it anyway
The heroine was a snappish, rude, petty, disgusting woman who keep her son from his father because she was angry. She lies, to her son to his father, to her friends and she never drops one damn issue no matter how old and stale is is. When she wasn't cutting somebody down to nothing she was giggling, yes giggling, this author really like her giggles. I don't think one page went without one. He giggled, she giggled, they all effing giggled !
The sex was enough to make cringe, no sexy tingles here. ICK the descriptions, the words used Eewwww. I just wanted it to stop !
To think that Fallon the most despicable woman character I've read could get this great guy to be so devoted to her no matter how much she abuses him, is sick. I hated her, hated how she treated everyone, hated how it was accepted all through the book, I HATED IT. I don't want to read about such crap people dishing out crap and the Do Goods Eating it up.
Well, that sums it up. I am not going to read any more books form this author.
March 8, 2015
By royal bestie decree .... I'm losing my TA cherry ....
Lisa Jayne is addicted to this author and I'm diving in ❤️❤️
Lisa Jayne is addicted to this author and I'm diving in ❤️❤️
June 13, 2012
3.5 stars. Bk 2 of this hockey saga with the delish hot hockey player and another h that I detest. More so than in bk 1. Once again I find the story and the H Lucas extremely likeable, his son Aiden absolutely adorable, the h Fallon detestable. Truly believe this chick is bi-polar. She believes Lucas cheated on her in college and they break up. She holds on to that like a mad dog with a bone for 7 more years. Talk about your drama queen. Lucas is back and Fallon’s on the dreaded see-saw of “I want him, I can’t, I want him, I can't” until I wanted to smack her right off the pages. This whole roller coaster goes on for 80% of the bk. Poor Lucas who’s bent over backwards trying to earn her trust and love is totally committed to her and Aiden. He’s overcome some big obstacles in his life during their 7 years apart and is ready for a life with her and Aiden. Poor dope, he sees her flaws but loves her unconditionally. Shea and Elli and several characters from the first bk are also players. The back story throughout the bk is with Fallon’s sister Audrey who seems sweet enough but evidently is a dish rag, allowing abusive behavior from her newly found love. (ARGH!!!!). So with 2 smackable females here this one was tough to get through. Since Audrey is the focus of bk 3 this saga will continue. Still hoping Toni Aleo can get this formula right, her stories have so much going for her if she can just write about a more worthwhile h. Once again spell-check and a good proofreader would be helpful tools.
April 6, 2013
Look, I love the idea of a flawed book character. I understand it. No one is perfect, not even book characters. Having a flawed heroine is one thing but Fallon, the heroine for this book, is just downright UNLIKABLE. There I said it. Feelings of hate should be reserved for the antagonists not for protagonists! But this book, and this sorry excuse of a female protagonist just proved me wrong because I hated the heroine. She was really mean, bitter and sooooo immature, it's not even funny. She flipped flopped so many times that I lost count.
The only reason I gave this two additional star making it three was because of Lucas and Aiden. Lucas was the epitome of a flawed character. He lost his father, started drinking and popping pills and cheated on his girlfriend. He lost everything after he lost Fallon and after hitting rock bottom, he finally sobered up and was making changes in his life. He was traded to the Assassins and it was there where he and Fallon met once again. Only this time he found out he actually had a son, who for 7 long years was kept from him. I'm not going to go into the inane reasons Fallon has for keeping Aiden but my heart truly broke for him.
What I loved about his character was that he actually learned from his mistakes. He did everything he can to win the stupid girl back but the said stupid girl keeps throwing it back in his face. The scenes between Aiden and Lucas were tender and beautiful especially that time when My heart just broke for them.
Overall, this book could have been great but the heroine just killed any enjoyment I had for this one. I still have that bitter taste in my mouth from when she called Lucas . If you can stomach an unlikable heroine then you might enjoy this book.
The only reason I gave this two additional star making it three was because of Lucas and Aiden. Lucas was the epitome of a flawed character. He lost his father, started drinking and popping pills and cheated on his girlfriend. He lost everything after he lost Fallon and after hitting rock bottom, he finally sobered up and was making changes in his life. He was traded to the Assassins and it was there where he and Fallon met once again. Only this time he found out he actually had a son, who for 7 long years was kept from him. I'm not going to go into the inane reasons Fallon has for keeping Aiden but my heart truly broke for him.
What I loved about his character was that he actually learned from his mistakes. He did everything he can to win the stupid girl back but the said stupid girl keeps throwing it back in his face. The scenes between Aiden and Lucas were tender and beautiful especially that time when My heart just broke for them.
Overall, this book could have been great but the heroine just killed any enjoyment I had for this one. I still have that bitter taste in my mouth from when she called Lucas . If you can stomach an unlikable heroine then you might enjoy this book.
May 20, 2013
I could not bring myself to finish this book.
It's not poorly written, by any means. However, Fallon (the heroine) just made me want to crawl into the book to jump onto her shoulders and smack her in the head. How stubborn, selfish and unreasonable can she get?! Yes, Lucas (hero) made a mistake, and I know her reasons for being mad. But halfway through the book I found myself resenting HER resentment instead. Getting angry and jealous because Aiden (their son) seem to like his father's company? Resenting Lucas for his expensive gifts because he wanted to make up for lost time? Lost time that was caused by her? Getting angry with Lucas for pulling their son out of baseball even though she knows that Aiden hates it, but still chooses to get angry anyway because she felt like she was losing control over the situation. UGH, JUST UGH. To make things worse, she seems to be so indecisive, one moment she's starting to accept Lucas again and the next she's pushing him away.
I couldn't take it anymore and was at a point where I felt like she did not deserve Lucas.
That said, Lucas was an amazing hero. Yes, he did cheat on her once, but I thought he more than made up for it. Their six year-old, Aiden, was also a sweetheart.
July 8, 2018
⭐3 stars⭐
"Oh, Aiden James Brooks, do you know how much I love you?" she asked.
"A lot probably. I'm pretty awesome, and everybody loves me."
Kid's funny.
But I think I'm not in the right mood for these books atm. I'll probably try the rest some other time.
"Oh, Aiden James Brooks, do you know how much I love you?" she asked.
"A lot probably. I'm pretty awesome, and everybody loves me."
Kid's funny.
But I think I'm not in the right mood for these books atm. I'll probably try the rest some other time.
January 5, 2013
Another enjoyable hockey romance by Toni Aleo. I actually enjoyed Trying to Score more than the first Assassins book; the storyline and characters seemed more realistic- Shea from the previous book was a bit too perfect and too weepy for my taste. Lucas and Fallon were a great couple and I'm such a sucker for a hidden baby plot line- their son Aiden was adorable in the book. The relationship between Lucas and Aiden was very sweet and I even teared up a few times. My only complaint is that there was too much internal dialogue- I prefer reading action and spoken dialogue. I occasionally skimmed sections that were inside the characters thoughts too long. But overall a great book. If you like sport romance books, you will enjoy Trying to Score.
May 15, 2024
4.5 stars
TRYING TO SCORE
● Lucas & Fallon'
● NFL foreward / runs her family’s wine company
● broke up because he cheated on her (7 years ago)
● now (7 years later) he’s in her city and going to play hockey
● Aiden - their almost 7 year old
● secret baby
● second chance romance
Secret baby tropes can be tricky on whether I'll like them. One thing about this one is we didn't go through the majority of the book with the father not knowing. The story starts with them dating and then they break up. It's not for another 7 years before they see each other and not too long after that the secret comes out.
Fallon was a frustrating character to the very end of the book. Her persistent mistrust of Lucas, clinging to his past misstep, had begun to feel drawn out. At times, I wanted to tell her to get a grip.
Nonetheless, I enjoyed the story and am looking for to the next book in the series.
ASSASSINS:
#1 Shea & Elli - Taking Shots
#2 Lucas & Fallon - Trying to Score
#3 Tate & Audrey - Empty Net
#3.5 Jordan & Anslyee - Falling For the Backup
#4 Erik & Piper - Blue Lines
TRYING TO SCORE
● Lucas & Fallon'
● NFL foreward / runs her family’s wine company
● broke up because he cheated on her (7 years ago)
● now (7 years later) he’s in her city and going to play hockey
● Aiden - their almost 7 year old
● secret baby
● second chance romance
Secret baby tropes can be tricky on whether I'll like them. One thing about this one is we didn't go through the majority of the book with the father not knowing. The story starts with them dating and then they break up. It's not for another 7 years before they see each other and not too long after that the secret comes out.
Fallon was a frustrating character to the very end of the book. Her persistent mistrust of Lucas, clinging to his past misstep, had begun to feel drawn out. At times, I wanted to tell her to get a grip.
Nonetheless, I enjoyed the story and am looking for to the next book in the series.
ASSASSINS:
#1 Shea & Elli - Taking Shots
#2 Lucas & Fallon - Trying to Score
#3 Tate & Audrey - Empty Net
#3.5 Jordan & Anslyee - Falling For the Backup
#4 Erik & Piper - Blue Lines
Audiobook source: Hoopla
Narrator: Lucy Malone
Length: 14h 55m
May 6, 2013
I downloaded this because the cover is hot and it features hockey players. Sadly it was a disappointing read.
1) Secret Baby plot. I hate secret baby plots unless the heroine has a VERY good reason for keeping the kid a secret. When the kid is 6 and she's refusing to tell daddy because she's all wrapped up in how SHE feels? That doesn't work for me.
2) Lucas was a total doormat. At some point you have to say to yourself "this chick is a crazy bitch and I'm wasting my time". He should have reached that point around page 15. He never did. Not in 350 pages.
3) Fallon was a bitch. In a complete role reversal, the hero was the doormat and the heroine was an Alpha-Bitch. She was wishy-washy in her feelings and actions, except her bitterness and anger. Those stayed consistent throughout the book. Right up until the very last page as a matter of fact.
4) Inconsistent dialogue and characterizations. One minute she was broke, the next she didn't need help from no one or nothing. Today she's sorry she's hurting her son and wants him to know his dad, yesterday she wanted nothing more than to keep them apart.
5) A weird sub-plot with her sister. The sister seemed pretty kickass until she hooked up with a guy who told her she was fat and hurt her in the bedroom. No idea where that came from or why we had to read about it.
6) A million little things. Normally I can overlook small typos or little idiosyncracies in the plot. But when the story isn't holding my attention I tend to focus on all the negative. That's what happened here.
I did like the sister enough (weird abusive guy thing aside) to start her book. Sadly it already seems to be more of the same.
I'm totally bummed. I had such high hopes.
1) Secret Baby plot. I hate secret baby plots unless the heroine has a VERY good reason for keeping the kid a secret. When the kid is 6 and she's refusing to tell daddy because she's all wrapped up in how SHE feels? That doesn't work for me.
2) Lucas was a total doormat. At some point you have to say to yourself "this chick is a crazy bitch and I'm wasting my time". He should have reached that point around page 15. He never did. Not in 350 pages.
3) Fallon was a bitch. In a complete role reversal, the hero was the doormat and the heroine was an Alpha-Bitch. She was wishy-washy in her feelings and actions, except her bitterness and anger. Those stayed consistent throughout the book. Right up until the very last page as a matter of fact.
4) Inconsistent dialogue and characterizations. One minute she was broke, the next she didn't need help from no one or nothing. Today she's sorry she's hurting her son and wants him to know his dad, yesterday she wanted nothing more than to keep them apart.
5) A weird sub-plot with her sister. The sister seemed pretty kickass until she hooked up with a guy who told her she was fat and hurt her in the bedroom. No idea where that came from or why we had to read about it.
6) A million little things. Normally I can overlook small typos or little idiosyncracies in the plot. But when the story isn't holding my attention I tend to focus on all the negative. That's what happened here.
I did like the sister enough (weird abusive guy thing aside) to start her book. Sadly it already seems to be more of the same.
I'm totally bummed. I had such high hopes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2012
You can find this and other reviews on my blog: Dreaming In The Pages
-----------------------------------------------
*sigh*
Yes folks. I am starting out a review with a sigh. Because 1) I can. And 2(I am in total and complete love with the second book in the Assassins series. I would be lying if I told you I wasn’t nervous as hell to pick up this book either. I was so enamored with Shea and Elli in Taking Shots I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to open up my heart to yet another Hockey stud muffin who was gunning for my heart. But alas, I was so very wrong. A little steamy, a little heartbreaking, and a whole lot of fanning yourself are in order this time around readers. Are your cheeks feeling a little pink yet? Get use to the feeling.
Now, as I said, I didn’t know if I was even able to love a story as much as I did Shea and Elli’s. I KNOW Elli [I swear, she is me] and how could I love someone more than I love Shea Alder?! [I’m still not sure I actually can…] After the first chapter I had no doubt Toni was going to be blowing me away yet again. Fallon and Lucas’s story is a total 180 from what we read in Taking Shots. Like Elli, Fallon has her own sets of faults and personal problems going on, but once Lucas Brooks enters the story we notice that Fallon and Lucas’s relationship is far more intertwined than we could have first imagined. I quickly fell for the banter and quirks between these two. As Fallon was extremely slow to even warm up to Lucas, I fell for him hard and fast and couldn’t help but to cheer him on as he tried to get Fallon back into his arms.
Now, before I go all gaga over Lucas Brooks some more, I wanted to say how much I LOVED being able to see Elli and Shea in this book. It was AMAZING to get to see their story even after we thought it was ‘over’ when their book ended. Now, since that is aside, I can address how much I love how Toni sets a story up. I love that when I am done with one of her books, I feel like I’m complete. Like Taking Shots, Trying to Score was no short story. You are taking through the up’s and down’s of this relationship and you feel like once you take one step forward you take five steps back and then your heart is aching for what almost happened. Toni gets me so wrapped up in this story that once even something little happens [like Fallon coming to her senses on certain subjects] I seriously jump up in my seat and squeal out in glee. There is nothing like seeing someone completely turn around.
Fresh, new, and something completely unexpected I quickly became glued to Toni Aleo’s second work of masterpiece and, to be honest, it has actually made me start watching hockey. [Go Preds!] If you fell in love with Taking Shots, I have no doubt in my mind that you will fall for Trying to Score. There is nothing like watching a story you thought was long over, blossom and become everything you ever wished it would have been. There is also nothing like a little steam and fanning oneself either. But why are you sitting there reading the end of my review?! Shouldn’t you be rushing out to go buy this?! Oh, and be sure to say hello to Lucas Brooks for me. I have a feeling you two will get along swimmingly.
-----------------------------------------------
*sigh*
Yes folks. I am starting out a review with a sigh. Because 1) I can. And 2(I am in total and complete love with the second book in the Assassins series. I would be lying if I told you I wasn’t nervous as hell to pick up this book either. I was so enamored with Shea and Elli in Taking Shots I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to open up my heart to yet another Hockey stud muffin who was gunning for my heart. But alas, I was so very wrong. A little steamy, a little heartbreaking, and a whole lot of fanning yourself are in order this time around readers. Are your cheeks feeling a little pink yet? Get use to the feeling.
Now, as I said, I didn’t know if I was even able to love a story as much as I did Shea and Elli’s. I KNOW Elli [I swear, she is me] and how could I love someone more than I love Shea Alder?! [I’m still not sure I actually can…] After the first chapter I had no doubt Toni was going to be blowing me away yet again. Fallon and Lucas’s story is a total 180 from what we read in Taking Shots. Like Elli, Fallon has her own sets of faults and personal problems going on, but once Lucas Brooks enters the story we notice that Fallon and Lucas’s relationship is far more intertwined than we could have first imagined. I quickly fell for the banter and quirks between these two. As Fallon was extremely slow to even warm up to Lucas, I fell for him hard and fast and couldn’t help but to cheer him on as he tried to get Fallon back into his arms.
Now, before I go all gaga over Lucas Brooks some more, I wanted to say how much I LOVED being able to see Elli and Shea in this book. It was AMAZING to get to see their story even after we thought it was ‘over’ when their book ended. Now, since that is aside, I can address how much I love how Toni sets a story up. I love that when I am done with one of her books, I feel like I’m complete. Like Taking Shots, Trying to Score was no short story. You are taking through the up’s and down’s of this relationship and you feel like once you take one step forward you take five steps back and then your heart is aching for what almost happened. Toni gets me so wrapped up in this story that once even something little happens [like Fallon coming to her senses on certain subjects] I seriously jump up in my seat and squeal out in glee. There is nothing like seeing someone completely turn around.
Fresh, new, and something completely unexpected I quickly became glued to Toni Aleo’s second work of masterpiece and, to be honest, it has actually made me start watching hockey. [Go Preds!] If you fell in love with Taking Shots, I have no doubt in my mind that you will fall for Trying to Score. There is nothing like watching a story you thought was long over, blossom and become everything you ever wished it would have been. There is also nothing like a little steam and fanning oneself either. But why are you sitting there reading the end of my review?! Shouldn’t you be rushing out to go buy this?! Oh, and be sure to say hello to Lucas Brooks for me. I have a feeling you two will get along swimmingly.
June 6, 2012
Trying to Score (Assassins #2) by Toni Aleo
I have to say I have no idea how I have missed reading this series, I was given the opportunity to read and review this book as part of a blog tour and since I enjoy hockey (being Canadian) I decided to sign up. Well let me tell you I am sure glad I did or I am not sure with all the thousands of books I see on goodreads I would have come across this series. So this weekend I picked up Trying to Score (Assassins #2) by Toni Aleo having no idea what I was in for I was quite amazed with Toni’s writing and how much I was enjoying this story, Toni is a fantastic author and I was swept away in her story. I will say if you want to read a good romance novel you need to pick this book up. The character are great, Toni’s writing flows so well you don’t want to put it down, you fall in love with the characters and you even shed a few tears at times. I absolutely loved Toni Aleo’s writing.
This is a story of Lucas and Fallon, now I don’t want to say too much for spoiler’s sake but it is a story of two people who loved each other once and the relationship ended on bad terms. Lucas did something unforgivable in Fallon’s eyes and she left him after a 2 year relationship. So 7 years later Lucas who is a transferred to Nashville to play hockey bumps into Fallon. To say the emotions that Fallan feels when she sees him is something I hope not many women have to face or feel. Heartbroken Fallan cannot believe he has moved to her home town. As for Lucas he sees this as a great thing as he is going to win Fallon’s heart back. This is a rollercoaster of a story – and a must read.
Did I mention the hockey well let’s say who can’t imagine a hot hockey players and Toni Aleo sure does know her hockey players...
Another thing I loved about this book is it is a full novel, it tells us a great story and we meet many different characters and this is when it clicked in my head that if this is book two I needed to find book one. So of course I went and found it and read it today. Toni Aleo is now one of my new favorite authors.
I have rated this story a 5 star rating because I loved the writing, the story and the hot scenes between Fallon and Lucas. I am recommending anyone who loves romance, some suspense, some heart break, and some happy ever after to go pick this book up and while you’re at it go pick up Taking Shots (Assassins #1).
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of Reading Addiction Blog Tours and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by Reading Addiction Blog Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, publisher, publicist, or readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning Use of Endorcements and Testimonials in Advertising*
I have to say I have no idea how I have missed reading this series, I was given the opportunity to read and review this book as part of a blog tour and since I enjoy hockey (being Canadian) I decided to sign up. Well let me tell you I am sure glad I did or I am not sure with all the thousands of books I see on goodreads I would have come across this series. So this weekend I picked up Trying to Score (Assassins #2) by Toni Aleo having no idea what I was in for I was quite amazed with Toni’s writing and how much I was enjoying this story, Toni is a fantastic author and I was swept away in her story. I will say if you want to read a good romance novel you need to pick this book up. The character are great, Toni’s writing flows so well you don’t want to put it down, you fall in love with the characters and you even shed a few tears at times. I absolutely loved Toni Aleo’s writing.
This is a story of Lucas and Fallon, now I don’t want to say too much for spoiler’s sake but it is a story of two people who loved each other once and the relationship ended on bad terms. Lucas did something unforgivable in Fallon’s eyes and she left him after a 2 year relationship. So 7 years later Lucas who is a transferred to Nashville to play hockey bumps into Fallon. To say the emotions that Fallan feels when she sees him is something I hope not many women have to face or feel. Heartbroken Fallan cannot believe he has moved to her home town. As for Lucas he sees this as a great thing as he is going to win Fallon’s heart back. This is a rollercoaster of a story – and a must read.
Did I mention the hockey well let’s say who can’t imagine a hot hockey players and Toni Aleo sure does know her hockey players...
Another thing I loved about this book is it is a full novel, it tells us a great story and we meet many different characters and this is when it clicked in my head that if this is book two I needed to find book one. So of course I went and found it and read it today. Toni Aleo is now one of my new favorite authors.
I have rated this story a 5 star rating because I loved the writing, the story and the hot scenes between Fallon and Lucas. I am recommending anyone who loves romance, some suspense, some heart break, and some happy ever after to go pick this book up and while you’re at it go pick up Taking Shots (Assassins #1).
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of Reading Addiction Blog Tours and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by Reading Addiction Blog Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, publisher, publicist, or readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning Use of Endorcements and Testimonials in Advertising*
April 30, 2012
My Summary: Fallon Parker is finally living her dream of working in the family wine business. She’s had to put her love life on hold to make this dream a reality. Now her past is coming back to haunt her. She’s working with the Nashville Assassins hockey team. She never expected to run into her old flame Lucas Brooks.
Lucas Brooks has had a troubled life. He’s lost a parent, struggled with addiction, and lost the love of his life. However on the ice, he’s deadly. Despite his personal struggles, his reputation on the ice is respectable. Lucas gets traded to Nashville where he runs head first into his true love, Fallon.
Secrets are revealed and old pain resurfaces. Can Fallon and Lucas even be around each other without combusting and will they be able to forgive each other of the past to make a new future together?
My Take:
This book is the second book in the Assassins Series and I couldn’t wait to read it. I loved the first book, Taking Shots, and was anxious to see whose story we would see next. I love hockey and sports romance! Hockey players are just so manly and yummy!
Lucas and Fallon’s story is very different than Elli and Shea’s. Toni did a great job of making the characters unique. I’ll be honest, it took me a while to warm up to Fallon. I could see why she did what she did, but she was a bit of a brat. Once she realizes her faults, I loved her! I love the name Fallon too. Neat name. I adore Lucas and want one of my own! His struggle with addiction and his determination to stay sober, was inspiring. I felt like he needed to go through the consequences of his addiction, so that he and Fallon could be a couple. Without giving anything away, you see how sensitive Lucas is and the relationship he develops with one of the characters made me melt! I love that he was so close to his mother and father too. The steam level was high and OH SO GOOD! Lucas and Fallon definitely have some serious sexual chemistry! *Fans Self* Oh and let me just say that when it rains now, I think of Lucas!
I was thrilled to see Elli and Shea! Love seeing how relationships progress. I am SO excited to read the next story Empty Net, which is Audrey’s story. Audrey is Fallon’s sister and she makes her appearance in this book. She is such a sweetheart!
One little thing I have to mention is that editing has been an issue and I don't blame the author. When you hire an editor, they should catch errors. Enough said on that. SO, I loved the epilogue and seeing where they were later on. Love the development of the series and can’t wait to read Empty Net! If you like some spice in your Contemporary Romance and sports, check this out! Toni Aleo has become one of my favorite new authors to read! SERIOUSLY! Hope you enjoy the series too! 5 out of 5 leaves
Lucas Brooks has had a troubled life. He’s lost a parent, struggled with addiction, and lost the love of his life. However on the ice, he’s deadly. Despite his personal struggles, his reputation on the ice is respectable. Lucas gets traded to Nashville where he runs head first into his true love, Fallon.
Secrets are revealed and old pain resurfaces. Can Fallon and Lucas even be around each other without combusting and will they be able to forgive each other of the past to make a new future together?
My Take:
This book is the second book in the Assassins Series and I couldn’t wait to read it. I loved the first book, Taking Shots, and was anxious to see whose story we would see next. I love hockey and sports romance! Hockey players are just so manly and yummy!
Lucas and Fallon’s story is very different than Elli and Shea’s. Toni did a great job of making the characters unique. I’ll be honest, it took me a while to warm up to Fallon. I could see why she did what she did, but she was a bit of a brat. Once she realizes her faults, I loved her! I love the name Fallon too. Neat name. I adore Lucas and want one of my own! His struggle with addiction and his determination to stay sober, was inspiring. I felt like he needed to go through the consequences of his addiction, so that he and Fallon could be a couple. Without giving anything away, you see how sensitive Lucas is and the relationship he develops with one of the characters made me melt! I love that he was so close to his mother and father too. The steam level was high and OH SO GOOD! Lucas and Fallon definitely have some serious sexual chemistry! *Fans Self* Oh and let me just say that when it rains now, I think of Lucas!
I was thrilled to see Elli and Shea! Love seeing how relationships progress. I am SO excited to read the next story Empty Net, which is Audrey’s story. Audrey is Fallon’s sister and she makes her appearance in this book. She is such a sweetheart!
One little thing I have to mention is that editing has been an issue and I don't blame the author. When you hire an editor, they should catch errors. Enough said on that. SO, I loved the epilogue and seeing where they were later on. Love the development of the series and can’t wait to read Empty Net! If you like some spice in your Contemporary Romance and sports, check this out! Toni Aleo has become one of my favorite new authors to read! SERIOUSLY! Hope you enjoy the series too! 5 out of 5 leaves
June 19, 2012
I'm not going to add much here that hasn't already been said so I'll keep it short and sweet. I loved the hero, Lucas, and want one just like him for my own. The "surprise" son he shares with Fallon, Aiden, was adorable in that gruff little boy way and he was very well written. Audrey, Fallon's sister, was a breath of fresh air and did a decent job of trying to pull Fallon's head out of her backside for most of the book. The dialogue between all of the characters was funny and overall I enjoyed the flow of the story. 3 stars for those reasons alone.
That said, Fallon made me want to throw my kindle against a wall for most of the book. She's without a doubt the most selfish, closed minded to anything but her own pain heroine (and I'm using that term loosely) I've ever read. She didn't want the father of her child to meet him just in case he liked his daddy more than his mommy? Really? She gets jealous when her son wants to give an art project he made in school to his newly discovered father? Oh, yes. I only caught very brief glimpses of her actually considering how her actions, both past and present, might be harming those around her and by that point it was too little too late for redemtion.
I had a much better experience with the author's first book from this series, Taking Shots, and I'm looking forward to Audrey's story next despite my frustration with Fallon and this book. Fingers crossed my kindle makes it out alive.
That said, Fallon made me want to throw my kindle against a wall for most of the book. She's without a doubt the most selfish, closed minded to anything but her own pain heroine (and I'm using that term loosely) I've ever read. She didn't want the father of her child to meet him just in case he liked his daddy more than his mommy? Really? She gets jealous when her son wants to give an art project he made in school to his newly discovered father? Oh, yes. I only caught very brief glimpses of her actually considering how her actions, both past and present, might be harming those around her and by that point it was too little too late for redemtion.
I had a much better experience with the author's first book from this series, Taking Shots, and I'm looking forward to Audrey's story next despite my frustration with Fallon and this book. Fingers crossed my kindle makes it out alive.
October 12, 2012
Can't say enough how much I enjoyed this second book in the Assassins series!! Read it you won't be disappointed, only problem was I didn't want it to end! Great main & supporting characters leaves you wanting more! Loads of great scenes - steamy, sweet and full of surprises!!
April 13, 2012
Miss Toni has mastered the art of creating an awesome story with memorable characters, while at the same time causing your heart race so fast you need to take a breather before you read on. And OMG, are her boys HOT HOT HOT!! I loved Taking Shots, so I was very excited to start Trying to Score and see what more Toni had in store...and did she ever deliver!! We got to see a lot of Shea and Elli again, too (YAY!), so this story was an all-around hit for me!!
Lucas and Fallon had a lust-at-first-sight moment; she was a sophomore in college, he was a young and cocky hockey player who just knew she was the one for him. They had two wonderful years together until an unforgivable betrayal forced Fallon to walk away. Fast forward 7 years into the future, where Fallon is now heading up her family's wine company, a sponsor for the Assassins, and Lucas has just been traded to the team. They both know that seeing each other again is inevitable, but while Lucas can't wait to try to win her back, Fallon is desperate to hide a huge secret from him and avoid opening up her heart again. When they finally see each other, the sparks start flying, but Fallon knows she can't let Lucas win her back. Once her secret is out, the whole game changes; Fallon is forced to face her mistakes, but can she finally let go of the past and forgive Lucas?
Once again, I absolutely loved Toni's lead characters!! Fallon, though there were MANY times I wanted to slap her and drag her out of the room by her hair, was the perfect wounded-heart heroine. She was bitter, indecisive, and untrusting thanks to what Lucas put her through, and she really struggled dealing with her life now that Lucas was back in it. I felt so bad for her throughout the story; between the betrayal and her decision that is now blowing up in her face, with a father that never thought much of her on top of all that, she was just a mess of emotions. Who could blame her?! But Lucas, HOOOOOOOOLY crap, he was too sexy for words!! His cocky flirtation with Fallon had me melting!! I loved everything behind the smoking hot athlete, too, from his struggles with dyslexia to the sweet and tender moments with the adorable Aiden. He had such a huge heart and was so in love with Fallon , it just made me love him SO much more!!
Fans of Toni know that she writes the hottest freakin' love scenes for her books, and I was fanning myself from the steam coming off my kindle with this book!! AHHHHHH!! I mean, I was having a hard time reading these scenes without having to stop so my heart could have a break!! Lucas was so damned sexy, and the way he just takes over and gives Fallon every reason to want to spend her entire day doing nothing but him...whew!!
There was so much heartbreak back and forth between Lucas and Fallon in this story, and I was so attached to the characters that it was hard to see them go through it. I was happy that Fallon finally grows up and embraces what could be in her future instead of clinging to her past, because she made a royal mess out of things more than once! Lucas goes through so much just to prove to her that he can be trusted, and I loved how things ended for them. You really feel like you've taken the journey along with Toni's characters in her stories, and I hate to say goodbye when it's over. I want more Lucas and Fallon, I could read another entire book just about them I love them so much!!! Another great one, Toni!!!
Lucas and Fallon had a lust-at-first-sight moment; she was a sophomore in college, he was a young and cocky hockey player who just knew she was the one for him. They had two wonderful years together until an unforgivable betrayal forced Fallon to walk away. Fast forward 7 years into the future, where Fallon is now heading up her family's wine company, a sponsor for the Assassins, and Lucas has just been traded to the team. They both know that seeing each other again is inevitable, but while Lucas can't wait to try to win her back, Fallon is desperate to hide a huge secret from him and avoid opening up her heart again. When they finally see each other, the sparks start flying, but Fallon knows she can't let Lucas win her back. Once her secret is out, the whole game changes; Fallon is forced to face her mistakes, but can she finally let go of the past and forgive Lucas?
Once again, I absolutely loved Toni's lead characters!! Fallon, though there were MANY times I wanted to slap her and drag her out of the room by her hair, was the perfect wounded-heart heroine. She was bitter, indecisive, and untrusting thanks to what Lucas put her through, and she really struggled dealing with her life now that Lucas was back in it. I felt so bad for her throughout the story; between the betrayal and her decision that is now blowing up in her face, with a father that never thought much of her on top of all that, she was just a mess of emotions. Who could blame her?! But Lucas, HOOOOOOOOLY crap, he was too sexy for words!! His cocky flirtation with Fallon had me melting!! I loved everything behind the smoking hot athlete, too, from his struggles with dyslexia to the sweet and tender moments with the adorable Aiden. He had such a huge heart and was so in love with Fallon , it just made me love him SO much more!!
Fans of Toni know that she writes the hottest freakin' love scenes for her books, and I was fanning myself from the steam coming off my kindle with this book!! AHHHHHH!! I mean, I was having a hard time reading these scenes without having to stop so my heart could have a break!! Lucas was so damned sexy, and the way he just takes over and gives Fallon every reason to want to spend her entire day doing nothing but him...whew!!
There was so much heartbreak back and forth between Lucas and Fallon in this story, and I was so attached to the characters that it was hard to see them go through it. I was happy that Fallon finally grows up and embraces what could be in her future instead of clinging to her past, because she made a royal mess out of things more than once! Lucas goes through so much just to prove to her that he can be trusted, and I loved how things ended for them. You really feel like you've taken the journey along with Toni's characters in her stories, and I hate to say goodbye when it's over. I want more Lucas and Fallon, I could read another entire book just about them I love them so much!!! Another great one, Toni!!!
May 27, 2017
Reread the story to read the new book in the series.
Heroin is super annoying and the hero took too long to find her, But the story holds the reader's attention.
Heroin is super annoying and the hero took too long to find her, But the story holds the reader's attention.
“He has a bad rep. Money, booze, females, I don’t know,”
"Lucas was getting into too much trouble in San Jose and if he wanted to stay sober, he had to leave where the temptation was."
“Please explain to me why you brought Fallon Parker’s stuff with us to Nashville?”
"Even with his alcoholism, losing Fallon was his epic failure. How he could have fucked up something so beautiful and so perfect would disturb him for the rest of his life."
"She hadn’t seen him in seven years"
“No, we aren’t together.” “Why?” Audrey asked. “Cause he’s a cheating bastard.”
"about the little baby that was growing in her belly, her father, William, freaked. He told her to get an abortion and of course, Fallon said no. He then threatened to take everything, but Fallon had already taken all the money so she was good."
"Fallon wouldn’t deal with a cheater, she was stronger than that."
“’Cause there hasn’t been anyone since him,” Fallon answered sadly.
“He was everything I wanted. I loved him with everything inside of me,”
"Two years, it was still hard to believe. Fallon had never been with someone so long or hell, been in love so long."
“Not only did you fuck my best friend, but you did it in my bed. Wow, way to go Luc.”
“It's pretty cut and dry Lucas — you fucked my best friend.”
"I was his that whole summer. I gave him everything, and for two amazing years, he was mine.”
“I know it isn’t, but you have to know I wouldn’t have done it if I wasn’t. Allison came on to me, and I was so horny and I missed you. I was so drunk that when she kissed me, I kissed her back. After that I don’t remember anything. All I remember from that night is waking up and seeing you look at me the way you are now.” Fallon’s eyes filled with tears as she began breathing hard."
“Fal, I will never hurt you again, and if you give me a chance, I’ll prove it to you.”
September 4, 2012
I think I like the first one better.
Don't get me wrong, I liked this too. It's just that I'm wondering.. Is there a pattern here? Am I supposed to hate the heroine and then love the hero?
Gawd.. I totally hated Fallon. Though it's understandable that she became UNTRUSTING, INSECURE and such a LIAR (by omission)... there were just some scenes wherein she was soooo infuriating! Scenes wherein she was such a selfish bitch. Pardon my language.. but it's just true! I'm just glad that she was the one who made a move in the end. My Lucas needed that gesture!
Now, the hero wasn't perfect too. He used to be an alcoholic/pill popper. But he tried to change everything for Fallon. I love it that he did all he could. He wanted to beat their bad history and I'm glad that he didn't give up. I'm also glad that their "bad history" wasn't really true.. even though it kept them apart for so long... I'd like to believe that it made their characters more believable.
The plot was good.. I had fun reading this. There were so many funny parts especially when it came to Lucas. Even though I just hated the heroine most of the time, her scenes with Lucas were truly awesome. It was just when she was alone and when she's having these very long monologues that I hated her so much.
I hope that the next one would be better. :)
Don't get me wrong, I liked this too. It's just that I'm wondering.. Is there a pattern here? Am I supposed to hate the heroine and then love the hero?
Gawd.. I totally hated Fallon. Though it's understandable that she became UNTRUSTING, INSECURE and such a LIAR (by omission)... there were just some scenes wherein she was soooo infuriating! Scenes wherein she was such a selfish bitch. Pardon my language.. but it's just true! I'm just glad that she was the one who made a move in the end. My Lucas needed that gesture!
Now, the hero wasn't perfect too. He used to be an alcoholic/pill popper. But he tried to change everything for Fallon. I love it that he did all he could. He wanted to beat their bad history and I'm glad that he didn't give up. I'm also glad that their "bad history" wasn't really true.. even though it kept them apart for so long... I'd like to believe that it made their characters more believable.
The plot was good.. I had fun reading this. There were so many funny parts especially when it came to Lucas. Even though I just hated the heroine most of the time, her scenes with Lucas were truly awesome. It was just when she was alone and when she's having these very long monologues that I hated her so much.
I hope that the next one would be better. :)
January 23, 2013
Okay, this was one hell of a long book but is was so good!!!! I fell in love with the characters and what a beautiful story they made. I think I like this book even better than the first book and the first was incredible. Toni Aleo has certainly scored high in my books. A must read!!
Shelved as 'do-not-read'
November 29, 2015H drunk-cheated with the h's best friend then became a manwhore after they broke up.
April 15, 2013
3.5 stars!
Received arc from netgalley for my honest review
This is the second book in Toni Aleo's Assassins series. Don't let the name fool you, these aren't suspense books filled with danger. No, Assassins is a Hockey team, and "Trying to Score" is a delicious sporting team, romance.
Fallen and Lucas met and fell instantly in love. They were together for two years, when something happened that ripped them apart, leaving them both broken. Nine years has gone by and Lucas has worked hard to become a recovering alcoholic and when he is transfered to the Assassins, who are based in the same home town as his old flame, he decides that nothing will stop him from winning her back. What he doesn't count on is a woman so hurt and scarred that she cannot forgive and a secret that she has been keeping from him that may jeopordise everthing.
This was a really good second chance romance story.I absolutley loved Lucas and his charming, easy going ways. He won my heart over, time and time again. Everytime Fallen through something at him, he recovered and just kept on going. You have to admire a man who knows what he wants and just doesn't give up. Fallen on the other hand......this lady frustrated me to no end.Her indecisivness, her unwillingness to bend, even a little. I understand she was hurt but even when that was resolved she was still unreceptive to compromise. What else could Lucas do??? I just wanted to scream at the lady.She is the reason for 3.5 stars.
The hockey team, I am a sucker for hockey boys :) Aiden and AA, were really great. I was a little confused about Fallen's dad and I feel like we only got half the story there, his anger seemed unfounded and with no resolution I felt a bit ripped off.
Other than that I really like this one and I will be looking for more from this author. I do love a good steamy sporting romance.
Received arc from netgalley for my honest review
This is the second book in Toni Aleo's Assassins series. Don't let the name fool you, these aren't suspense books filled with danger. No, Assassins is a Hockey team, and "Trying to Score" is a delicious sporting team, romance.
Fallen and Lucas met and fell instantly in love. They were together for two years, when something happened that ripped them apart, leaving them both broken. Nine years has gone by and Lucas has worked hard to become a recovering alcoholic and when he is transfered to the Assassins, who are based in the same home town as his old flame, he decides that nothing will stop him from winning her back. What he doesn't count on is a woman so hurt and scarred that she cannot forgive and a secret that she has been keeping from him that may jeopordise everthing.
This was a really good second chance romance story.I absolutley loved Lucas and his charming, easy going ways. He won my heart over, time and time again. Everytime Fallen through something at him, he recovered and just kept on going. You have to admire a man who knows what he wants and just doesn't give up. Fallen on the other hand......this lady frustrated me to no end.Her indecisivness, her unwillingness to bend, even a little. I understand she was hurt but even when that was resolved she was still unreceptive to compromise. What else could Lucas do??? I just wanted to scream at the lady.She is the reason for 3.5 stars.
The hockey team, I am a sucker for hockey boys :) Aiden and AA, were really great. I was a little confused about Fallen's dad and I feel like we only got half the story there, his anger seemed unfounded and with no resolution I felt a bit ripped off.
Other than that I really like this one and I will be looking for more from this author. I do love a good steamy sporting romance.
August 23, 2015
2.5 stars. I knew I shouldn't have picked up book 2 when I wasn't such a fan of book 1, but I had it on my kindle already and I thought why not. Ugh.
My problems with book 1 were still there with Trying to Score, mainly there is a whole lot of telling what the character is thinking and feeling and not a lot of showing. The heroine Fallon is understandably bitter when she caught her long term boyfriend cheating on her . I understood her reason for being a sarcastic shrew, but fuck me, she was a complete bitch for 99% of the book. Why does TA write such annoying, I-want-to-strangle-you heroines, but totally awesome heroes? Lucas kept me reading (much like Shea from book 1). Fallon didn't have enough character development to endear me to her and OMG the whole cheating thing was like beating a dead horse. I was over it by the end of the book, and glad when the book ended.
My problems with book 1 were still there with Trying to Score, mainly there is a whole lot of telling what the character is thinking and feeling and not a lot of showing. The heroine Fallon is understandably bitter when she caught her long term boyfriend cheating on her . I understood her reason for being a sarcastic shrew, but fuck me, she was a complete bitch for 99% of the book. Why does TA write such annoying, I-want-to-strangle-you heroines, but totally awesome heroes? Lucas kept me reading (much like Shea from book 1). Fallon didn't have enough character development to endear me to her and OMG the whole cheating thing was like beating a dead horse. I was over it by the end of the book, and glad when the book ended.
July 26, 2012
This is hard review to write because I don't want to give away any spoilers.
This is the second book I've read from Toni Aleo and if I wasn't a HUGE fan after reading Taking Shots, I definitely would be after reading Trying To Score!!!
I love love love this story!!! Toni's writing and this series are the reason I love to read so much!!! SO FREAKING GOOD!!! This is my favorite book in the series.
In Taking Shots I loved Shea's character~he made the book for me. In Trying To Score it was the story that made the book for me. I was hooked from the beginning and I wanted nothing more then to immerse myself in the story!! I couldn't pull myself away from Lucas, Fallon, Aidan and Audrey because I couldn't wait to see what happened next. I'm so glad Toni brought Shea and Ellie back, they had some great scenes~so funny.
Toni wrote another great hockey-playing, sexy, tattooed, sweet, cocky, romantic hero and more HOT sex scenes!! Trying To Score is heart-warming, romantic, sweet, sexy, funny and a bit sad.
Just a great read that is definitely taking up room in my keeper pile while waiting to be reread.
I can't wait to read Empty Net and I hope that it is not the last of this series because I definitely don't want it to end!!
5 out of 5 rating.
**Received this copy from Toni Aleo ~ Thank you so much!!! :)
This is the second book I've read from Toni Aleo and if I wasn't a HUGE fan after reading Taking Shots, I definitely would be after reading Trying To Score!!!
I love love love this story!!! Toni's writing and this series are the reason I love to read so much!!! SO FREAKING GOOD!!! This is my favorite book in the series.
In Taking Shots I loved Shea's character~he made the book for me. In Trying To Score it was the story that made the book for me. I was hooked from the beginning and I wanted nothing more then to immerse myself in the story!! I couldn't pull myself away from Lucas, Fallon, Aidan and Audrey because I couldn't wait to see what happened next. I'm so glad Toni brought Shea and Ellie back, they had some great scenes~so funny.
Toni wrote another great hockey-playing, sexy, tattooed, sweet, cocky, romantic hero and more HOT sex scenes!! Trying To Score is heart-warming, romantic, sweet, sexy, funny and a bit sad.
Just a great read that is definitely taking up room in my keeper pile while waiting to be reread.
I can't wait to read Empty Net and I hope that it is not the last of this series because I definitely don't want it to end!!
5 out of 5 rating.
**Received this copy from Toni Aleo ~ Thank you so much!!! :)
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