What do you think?
Rate this book
The Playmakers #7
Twisted Wrister
He’s not looking for happily-ever-after. She’s not looking for a hockey player. Can love score a win, or will it get iced?
Blake Barrett’s star is streaking into the upper reaches of the galaxy, and it’s his wicked wrist shot that’s fueling the twenty-four-year-old’s meteoric rise. Top center for the NHL’s Cup-winning champs? Check. Millions in the bank? Yep. As self-assured in his stickhandling abilities off the ice as he is on it? Not so much. Women might be throwing themselves at him, but he needs a little more practice to figure out what to do if he catches one.
Then again, after growing up with a front-row seat to his parents’ disastrous marriage, he’s convinced the closest he can get to happily-ever-after is settling for someone who ticks the most boxes when his career’s done. Why waste time on a dream he can’t even pin to the boards? So when Blake’s roommate—who also happens to be his teammate and best friend—sets his sights on their feisty new neighbor, Blake’s duty-bound by the bro code to help his buddy win her … except when Blake gets to know her, he’s not so sure he wants to play wingman anymore.
Michaela Wagner has earned her hard-fought-for position as a real estate lawyer in a prestigious firm. She may have aced her classes and graduated early, but an army of suits is ready to keep her ambition in check. Undeterred, she casts her eye on a prize account her boss is dangling like a juicy carrot.
Though she doesn’t have much time for dating, she’s a big believer in fairy-tale endings. Prince Charming is waiting for her … though he hasn’t been at the speed-dating events or in the dating apps she’s subjected herself to. Could he be one of the hunky hockey players next door? Absolutely not. Too much testosterone, too much swagger, too many female fans. If she were forced to pick one, though, it would be Blake. He’s an enigma begging to be bared, and he’s got those green eyes that follow her with an intriguing mix of bewilderment and intensity. Too bad he believes in happily-never-after.
As Blake glides closer to Michaela, doubt turns to possibility, and his philosophy begins to unravel like spent stick tape. But a happy ending for these two seems as elusive as a Stanley Cup win. When loyalty faces off against desire, will their love survive the penalty box?
Blake Barrett’s star is streaking into the upper reaches of the galaxy, and it’s his wicked wrist shot that’s fueling the twenty-four-year-old’s meteoric rise. Top center for the NHL’s Cup-winning champs? Check. Millions in the bank? Yep. As self-assured in his stickhandling abilities off the ice as he is on it? Not so much. Women might be throwing themselves at him, but he needs a little more practice to figure out what to do if he catches one.
Then again, after growing up with a front-row seat to his parents’ disastrous marriage, he’s convinced the closest he can get to happily-ever-after is settling for someone who ticks the most boxes when his career’s done. Why waste time on a dream he can’t even pin to the boards? So when Blake’s roommate—who also happens to be his teammate and best friend—sets his sights on their feisty new neighbor, Blake’s duty-bound by the bro code to help his buddy win her … except when Blake gets to know her, he’s not so sure he wants to play wingman anymore.
Michaela Wagner has earned her hard-fought-for position as a real estate lawyer in a prestigious firm. She may have aced her classes and graduated early, but an army of suits is ready to keep her ambition in check. Undeterred, she casts her eye on a prize account her boss is dangling like a juicy carrot.
Though she doesn’t have much time for dating, she’s a big believer in fairy-tale endings. Prince Charming is waiting for her … though he hasn’t been at the speed-dating events or in the dating apps she’s subjected herself to. Could he be one of the hunky hockey players next door? Absolutely not. Too much testosterone, too much swagger, too many female fans. If she were forced to pick one, though, it would be Blake. He’s an enigma begging to be bared, and he’s got those green eyes that follow her with an intriguing mix of bewilderment and intensity. Too bad he believes in happily-never-after.
As Blake glides closer to Michaela, doubt turns to possibility, and his philosophy begins to unravel like spent stick tape. But a happy ending for these two seems as elusive as a Stanley Cup win. When loyalty faces off against desire, will their love survive the penalty box?
415 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2022
About the author
G.K. Brady
15 books284 followersG.K. Brady was born in Japan and grew up in Vietnam and Singapore—and many would argue she has yet to grow up.
Since childhood, all sorts of stories and characters have lived in her imagination, elbowing one another for attention, so she’s finally giving them their voice on the written page.
A writer of contemporary romance, she loves telling tales of the less-than-perfect hero or heroine who transforms with each turn of a page.
G.K. is the proud mom of three grown sons. When she’s not writing, she might be reading, traveling, drinking wine, listening to music, or gardening—sometimes all at once! She currently resides in Colorado with her very patient husband.
Since childhood, all sorts of stories and characters have lived in her imagination, elbowing one another for attention, so she’s finally giving them their voice on the written page.
A writer of contemporary romance, she loves telling tales of the less-than-perfect hero or heroine who transforms with each turn of a page.
G.K. is the proud mom of three grown sons. When she’s not writing, she might be reading, traveling, drinking wine, listening to music, or gardening—sometimes all at once! She currently resides in Colorado with her very patient husband.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
September 26, 2021
A talented rising hockey star with a traumatic past. A beautiful, intelligent young attorney on the fast track to partner at her prestigious law firm. Two very different people who find themselves neighbors. The attraction is instant and mutual until Blake’s best friend and roommate call “Dibs”! Feeling he owes Ferguson for his nearly lifelong friendship, Blake agrees to back off. But a series of events continues to throw him and Michaela together!
Another intriguing love story by GK Brady with hot guys, lots of hockey, smart, successful women, and enough steam to set your heart pounding!
I absolutely love this entire series and highly recommend it!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another intriguing love story by GK Brady with hot guys, lots of hockey, smart, successful women, and enough steam to set your heart pounding!
I absolutely love this entire series and highly recommend it!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 15, 2021
Terrific story. I’ve enjoyed reading everything from this author. The characters were captivating and the story compelling and you can’t get much better than that. A great way to enjoy a Sunday afternoon. This is the 7th book in the The Playmakers Series Hockey Romances series. I think each one was better then the ladt and I enjoyed this one the most. I voluntarily received a beautiful and complete arc from the author with thanks and I bought a copy too.
September 28, 2021
Blake and Michaela's story was really believable, I loved the build up to their get together, how Blake was loyal to his friend in not pursuing Michaela as soon as he felt the attraction just made him all the more likeable. Their happy ending was perfect.
I received an ARC copy to give an honest review.
I received an ARC copy to give an honest review.
October 19, 2021
Rating: 1.0/5.0
I received a free ARC of this book and am leaving a voluntary and honest review.
Why are there so many 4/5-star ratings for this book? I picked up Twisted Wrister because the main female lead is an attorney. Other than that, I’m not a hockey fan and the blurb sounded interesting enough, but I was really only here for the attorney/law bits. Sadly, there wasn’t enough for me – especially compared to how much hockey stuff there was. It was like the author knew a lot more about hockey than law or didn’t want readers to be bored reading about real estate law, because the story had so much more hockey than it did Michaela’s career.
Michaela is set out to be a tough girl with the mace and the guns (which were only mentioned once, I want more) but she “can’t lie” or confront this guy who is hounding her constantly and acts ridiculously oblivious to his actions even though he flat out tried to kiss her at work. Without her consent. It was just a bunch of things that didn’t hold up for her character. To be honest, I really didn’t like reading about her.
She also makes it clear she’s no longer fun Michaela and doesn’t drink ever, but I made a note about 24% of the way in, and at that point, she’d had at least 10 margaritas – with many more to come. And for an attorney – who graduated early or did some fun stuff that made her a legitimate attorney by the age of 25 – also sounds ridiculous. Her mental conversations and thoughts vary from smart lawyer-speak to OMG, Fi, you will not guess the tea I’m about to spill.
(Chapter 2, idk what page bc I’m reading it as an ebook on Overdrive)
And I’m literally quoting word-for-word. It’s a bunch of conversations and thoughts like that that make me question if she’s truly an attorney, and if so, how.
Blake, on the other hand, at least sounds more adult and age-appropriate with his thought processes and language use. He’s crazy oblivious to any girl, which is believable, but he keeps covering for his friend past the point of reason. He’s admitted multiple times his friend isn’t good enough for Michaela or isn’t that great of a person or is acting like a jerk, and yet conflict arises and he cowers away and makes excuses.
I liked Blake’s point of view better even though he was just so clueless and useless I wanted to yell at him. But Michaela read like a teenage/young adult male wrote her character and didn’t know how a female or this female in particular would speak or think. She’s 25 and you’re telling me a professional lawyer still reads like a 14-year-old girl?
A lot of the random tidbits of trivia did fit Blake’s character, I will say, but some of their conversations made no sense. He and Michaela were having a conversation about love and the realism v optimism about it, and please tell me who has ever had that conversation on what could be a third or fourth date – even though they had never even been on a ‘legitimate’ date at that point.
And why is everybody talking about The One? Almost every character mentions wanting to find/having found The One. Characters need to be realistic! Are you telling me an entire group of professional hockey players either want to find The One or are waiting for a little bit before they find The One? The only people who don’t bring The One conversation up were side characters who are only shown for a few scenes.
The biggest thing that made me so angry at this book was the nickname. Only special people were allowed to call Michaela Micky, apparently, so Blake decided to call her M. That’s not a nickname. I’d understand “Em” like a shortened version of Emily or Bea like Beatrice or other nicknames that sound like letters, but this was just stupid to me. It’s not a nickname, it’s a letter. He flat-out called her “M” for a good portion of the book. I’d rather go with the “Micky Mouse”. Then again, this is the guy who calls Ferguson “Fergs” so maybe he’s just awful in the nickname department.
One of Blake’s biggest conflicts/issues as a character was his alcoholic mother. He spent almost the entire book talking or thinking about how awful of a person she was – with credible evidence backing that up – and him sitting through various conflicts in which she proceeded to emphasize that she wasn’t that great. But in the end, everything was cleared up quickly and cleanly. I think it’s hard to believe that an alcoholic of however many years will just decide “I think I’m too old to be this drunk for so long” and once the truth comes out. That whole moment came from nowhere and everything about her character was not backing that up at all. It felt too clean and unbelievable.
I honestly hated Twisted Wrister. The only good thing I’d say is that you can’t tell it’s the 7th book in a series. At least I wasn’t confused by who the characters were or what was going on. The book was also ridiculously long, or maybe that was just because I had to force myself to read it. But I’m pretty sure it went on forever.
I received a free ARC of this book and am leaving a voluntary and honest review.
Why are there so many 4/5-star ratings for this book? I picked up Twisted Wrister because the main female lead is an attorney. Other than that, I’m not a hockey fan and the blurb sounded interesting enough, but I was really only here for the attorney/law bits. Sadly, there wasn’t enough for me – especially compared to how much hockey stuff there was. It was like the author knew a lot more about hockey than law or didn’t want readers to be bored reading about real estate law, because the story had so much more hockey than it did Michaela’s career.
Michaela is set out to be a tough girl with the mace and the guns (which were only mentioned once, I want more) but she “can’t lie” or confront this guy who is hounding her constantly and acts ridiculously oblivious to his actions even though he flat out tried to kiss her at work. Without her consent. It was just a bunch of things that didn’t hold up for her character. To be honest, I really didn’t like reading about her.
She also makes it clear she’s no longer fun Michaela and doesn’t drink ever, but I made a note about 24% of the way in, and at that point, she’d had at least 10 margaritas – with many more to come. And for an attorney – who graduated early or did some fun stuff that made her a legitimate attorney by the age of 25 – also sounds ridiculous. Her mental conversations and thoughts vary from smart lawyer-speak to OMG, Fi, you will not guess the tea I’m about to spill.
“Michaela: You’re going to be disappointed, GF. No deets to report. The whole thing was a big suckaroo.”
(Chapter 2, idk what page bc I’m reading it as an ebook on Overdrive)
And I’m literally quoting word-for-word. It’s a bunch of conversations and thoughts like that that make me question if she’s truly an attorney, and if so, how.
Blake, on the other hand, at least sounds more adult and age-appropriate with his thought processes and language use. He’s crazy oblivious to any girl, which is believable, but he keeps covering for his friend past the point of reason. He’s admitted multiple times his friend isn’t good enough for Michaela or isn’t that great of a person or is acting like a jerk, and yet conflict arises and he cowers away and makes excuses.
I liked Blake’s point of view better even though he was just so clueless and useless I wanted to yell at him. But Michaela read like a teenage/young adult male wrote her character and didn’t know how a female or this female in particular would speak or think. She’s 25 and you’re telling me a professional lawyer still reads like a 14-year-old girl?
A lot of the random tidbits of trivia did fit Blake’s character, I will say, but some of their conversations made no sense. He and Michaela were having a conversation about love and the realism v optimism about it, and please tell me who has ever had that conversation on what could be a third or fourth date – even though they had never even been on a ‘legitimate’ date at that point.
And why is everybody talking about The One? Almost every character mentions wanting to find/having found The One. Characters need to be realistic! Are you telling me an entire group of professional hockey players either want to find The One or are waiting for a little bit before they find The One? The only people who don’t bring The One conversation up were side characters who are only shown for a few scenes.
The biggest thing that made me so angry at this book was the nickname. Only special people were allowed to call Michaela Micky, apparently, so Blake decided to call her M. That’s not a nickname. I’d understand “Em” like a shortened version of Emily or Bea like Beatrice or other nicknames that sound like letters, but this was just stupid to me. It’s not a nickname, it’s a letter. He flat-out called her “M” for a good portion of the book. I’d rather go with the “Micky Mouse”. Then again, this is the guy who calls Ferguson “Fergs” so maybe he’s just awful in the nickname department.
One of Blake’s biggest conflicts/issues as a character was his alcoholic mother. He spent almost the entire book talking or thinking about how awful of a person she was – with credible evidence backing that up – and him sitting through various conflicts in which she proceeded to emphasize that she wasn’t that great. But in the end, everything was cleared up quickly and cleanly. I think it’s hard to believe that an alcoholic of however many years will just decide “I think I’m too old to be this drunk for so long” and once the truth comes out. That whole moment came from nowhere and everything about her character was not backing that up at all. It felt too clean and unbelievable.
I honestly hated Twisted Wrister. The only good thing I’d say is that you can’t tell it’s the 7th book in a series. At least I wasn’t confused by who the characters were or what was going on. The book was also ridiculously long, or maybe that was just because I had to force myself to read it. But I’m pretty sure it went on forever.
February 8, 2024
Thanks to Home Cooked Books for the ALC.
Twisted Wrister
by G.K. Brady
(standalone in The Playmakers series)
Narrated by Samantha Brentmoor & Scott Rose
Story Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5
Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 (0-5)
Overall Rating: 4.75/5
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥 (0-5) but only a couple of detailed scenes
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 I can’t get enough of Samantha Brentmoor telling me stories. She has such a cute but badass way about her and such a perfect combination for being Michaela Wagner.
🤩 Scott Rose is a perfect pick for Blake Barrett—so good at being timid and unsure at first but then bringing all the attraction and desire when he couldn’t keep it in. But, still staying in Blake character and unsure of his bursting hormones.
🤩 Meet ugly—isn’t it as good as a meet cute, if not better?!
🤩 Next door neighbors—a pro hockey player and a junior lawyer.
🤩 Fun and funny parts, like day drinking.
🤩 He cooks! He takes care of his needy mother and little sister. He’s book boyfriend material.
🤩 Let’s see if you need kissing lessons. And, when they finally get more practice.
🤩 Oh goodness, the deep longing I feel for Blake to be brave and go for what he wants and deserves.
🤩 When she needs him and his trivia to keep her grounded.
🤩 Oh, wow, these two MCs are beautiful and hot together. The delicious details were working on me.
🤩 When he traces her tattoo—amazing touches.
🤩 In a bookish world of so many alphas, it’s refreshing to have sweet cinnamon roll Blake so enamored with M and wanting to please her.
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 The whole “throwing his roommate at me” thing got a tiny bit annoying. But it made the FINALLY feeling oh so good.
💫 Such good writing, but it’s hard when a friend is being a jerk. And when life has been hard. Ugh, this one has some seriously deep experiences and emotions. (Trigger warning: alcoholic and verbally abusive parent on page.)
💫 Third act breakups can feel so heart-wrenching. But it builds the longing. I prefer some lusty goodness afterward. The ending is very cute and flirty. Some spicy steam would make it even better.
💫 I honestly don’t remember if there was any hockey. I like a little hockey in my hockey romance.
Twisted Wrister
by G.K. Brady
(standalone in The Playmakers series)
Narrated by Samantha Brentmoor & Scott Rose
Story Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5
Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 (0-5)
Overall Rating: 4.75/5
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥 (0-5) but only a couple of detailed scenes
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 I can’t get enough of Samantha Brentmoor telling me stories. She has such a cute but badass way about her and such a perfect combination for being Michaela Wagner.
🤩 Scott Rose is a perfect pick for Blake Barrett—so good at being timid and unsure at first but then bringing all the attraction and desire when he couldn’t keep it in. But, still staying in Blake character and unsure of his bursting hormones.
🤩 Meet ugly—isn’t it as good as a meet cute, if not better?!
🤩 Next door neighbors—a pro hockey player and a junior lawyer.
🤩 Fun and funny parts, like day drinking.
🤩 He cooks! He takes care of his needy mother and little sister. He’s book boyfriend material.
🤩 Let’s see if you need kissing lessons. And, when they finally get more practice.
🤩 Oh goodness, the deep longing I feel for Blake to be brave and go for what he wants and deserves.
🤩 When she needs him and his trivia to keep her grounded.
🤩 Oh, wow, these two MCs are beautiful and hot together. The delicious details were working on me.
🤩 When he traces her tattoo—amazing touches.
🤩 In a bookish world of so many alphas, it’s refreshing to have sweet cinnamon roll Blake so enamored with M and wanting to please her.
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 The whole “throwing his roommate at me” thing got a tiny bit annoying. But it made the FINALLY feeling oh so good.
💫 Such good writing, but it’s hard when a friend is being a jerk. And when life has been hard. Ugh, this one has some seriously deep experiences and emotions. (Trigger warning: alcoholic and verbally abusive parent on page.)
💫 Third act breakups can feel so heart-wrenching. But it builds the longing. I prefer some lusty goodness afterward. The ending is very cute and flirty. Some spicy steam would make it even better.
💫 I honestly don’t remember if there was any hockey. I like a little hockey in my hockey romance.
September 26, 2021
5 stars for Twisted Wrister, book # 7 in G.K. Brady’s The Playmakers series. It’s swoonworthy, well written, and is my favorite Playmaker book so far. It's got everything from swoonworthy hockey star romance to deeper issues like alcoholism and family betrayal, with characters that will warm your heart. It’s positively a “can’t put down” book!
If you haven’t read any of The Playmakers, you can start with Twisted Wrister as it’s the best kind of series book; can be read as a standalone, but features previous characters and furthers the plots of previous series books.
Why the 5 stars? An immediate re-read and feelings that I’m not ready to let go of the characters … as well as really good storyline that goes beyond the sports romance theme (although that is really good!) and terrific characters.
TW is about two people (Blake Barrett and Michaela Wagner) who unexpectedly cross paths and don’t leave the best impression on either … serendipitous chance meeting by living next door to each other in a condo building and having similar friends (characters from previous books) starts them on a path of mutual attraction.
Blake is a NFL hockey player on his way up, dragging along significant family challenges, the yoke of unrealistic debt towards his best friend from childhood and current teammate and condo-mate. He’s convinced that HEA isn’t for him but can’t bring himself to figure out what to do about all the women throwing themselves at him.
Michaela (Micky, “M”) is a hotshot attorney, also on her way up, who knows she needs to continue to sacrifice to make her dreams of being a big time lawyer come true. Along the way, she starts to question if it’s all worth it, questions that are louder and louder when unexpected mishaps start to occur at work.
Throughout this, Blake and Michaela start to deepen their friendship and then start a romance. They both independently work on their personal and professional challenges.
TW tackles series subjects, has romantic scenes that may have your ereader smoking, and dialogue that is raw, honest, and intense.
Ms. Brady has been knocking it out of the ballpark …errr, hockey rink with this series, with each book being a total gem. As I mentioned earlier, you can read TW as a standalone, but you’ll want to read the other series books. The way she writes in characters from the previous series books is super creative … they are all in character and are like visits from favorite friends!
I received an ARC and was delighted to leave this honest review and share my feelings for the book!
If you haven’t read any of The Playmakers, you can start with Twisted Wrister as it’s the best kind of series book; can be read as a standalone, but features previous characters and furthers the plots of previous series books.
Why the 5 stars? An immediate re-read and feelings that I’m not ready to let go of the characters … as well as really good storyline that goes beyond the sports romance theme (although that is really good!) and terrific characters.
TW is about two people (Blake Barrett and Michaela Wagner) who unexpectedly cross paths and don’t leave the best impression on either … serendipitous chance meeting by living next door to each other in a condo building and having similar friends (characters from previous books) starts them on a path of mutual attraction.
Blake is a NFL hockey player on his way up, dragging along significant family challenges, the yoke of unrealistic debt towards his best friend from childhood and current teammate and condo-mate. He’s convinced that HEA isn’t for him but can’t bring himself to figure out what to do about all the women throwing themselves at him.
Michaela (Micky, “M”) is a hotshot attorney, also on her way up, who knows she needs to continue to sacrifice to make her dreams of being a big time lawyer come true. Along the way, she starts to question if it’s all worth it, questions that are louder and louder when unexpected mishaps start to occur at work.
Throughout this, Blake and Michaela start to deepen their friendship and then start a romance. They both independently work on their personal and professional challenges.
TW tackles series subjects, has romantic scenes that may have your ereader smoking, and dialogue that is raw, honest, and intense.
Ms. Brady has been knocking it out of the ballpark …errr, hockey rink with this series, with each book being a total gem. As I mentioned earlier, you can read TW as a standalone, but you’ll want to read the other series books. The way she writes in characters from the previous series books is super creative … they are all in character and are like visits from favorite friends!
I received an ARC and was delighted to leave this honest review and share my feelings for the book!
October 3, 2021
A fantastic read that has all the feels you could want!
Blake is an up and coming NHL star who had a childhood impacted by parents who showed him the worst of married life. His mother was an angry alcoholic and his friend Owen Ferguson (Fergs) was there to help him during some of the worst of it. Blake is loyal to his friend so when his best friend/roommate & teammate claims to be interested in their neighbor down the hall, Blake is determined not to pursue her himself.
Michaela is a real estate attorney who is temporarily living down the hall. She needs a plus one for a work event at the senior partner’s home. She has become casual friends with Blake, her gorgeous hockey playing neighbor who offers up his roommate as her plus one. Michaela would prefer to have Blake go with her because they have such an easy time talking for hours and get along so well.
Blake and Michaela have different outlooks on relationships and love, but end up in a very steamy romantic relationship. These two characters continue to develop and start to have much deeper feelings. As they grow in their relationship both of their insecurities and the world around them affect the choices they make.
This is a realistic and well written story. Neither of these characters are perfect and neither of them are the villain, but they have to work to find a path to their HEA. The characters and their story are engaging, entertaining and thought provoking.
I really enjoyed this story and despite the longer length of the book, it was so worth the time invested in reading it. I’ve read only a couple of books in this series and this easily reads as a standalone. Characters from the previous books appear and interact with Blake and Michaela, but the author mentions enough about them to avoid confusion or a lapse in this story.
I received an ARC from Hidden Gems and the author, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Blake is an up and coming NHL star who had a childhood impacted by parents who showed him the worst of married life. His mother was an angry alcoholic and his friend Owen Ferguson (Fergs) was there to help him during some of the worst of it. Blake is loyal to his friend so when his best friend/roommate & teammate claims to be interested in their neighbor down the hall, Blake is determined not to pursue her himself.
Michaela is a real estate attorney who is temporarily living down the hall. She needs a plus one for a work event at the senior partner’s home. She has become casual friends with Blake, her gorgeous hockey playing neighbor who offers up his roommate as her plus one. Michaela would prefer to have Blake go with her because they have such an easy time talking for hours and get along so well.
Blake and Michaela have different outlooks on relationships and love, but end up in a very steamy romantic relationship. These two characters continue to develop and start to have much deeper feelings. As they grow in their relationship both of their insecurities and the world around them affect the choices they make.
This is a realistic and well written story. Neither of these characters are perfect and neither of them are the villain, but they have to work to find a path to their HEA. The characters and their story are engaging, entertaining and thought provoking.
I really enjoyed this story and despite the longer length of the book, it was so worth the time invested in reading it. I’ve read only a couple of books in this series and this easily reads as a standalone. Characters from the previous books appear and interact with Blake and Michaela, but the author mentions enough about them to avoid confusion or a lapse in this story.
I received an ARC from Hidden Gems and the author, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 8, 2024
4.5 Stars! At this point, I’m locked into the series! It has yet to disappoint me! 💕
(Audio Review)
Book #7 within the Playmakers series (but can be read as a standalone), Twister Wrister is about Blake Barrett and Michaela Wagner. After reading the previous 6 books in the series, I was excited to keep going with this book. And as always, I was not disappointed!
Blake has been working hard and is becoming a star on his hockey team, the Colorado Blizzard, whilst his teammate, roommate, and best friend falls behind. This drives a wedge in their friendship. To complicate things further, they both meet their temporary neighbour Michaela. They both take a liking to her and would like to get to know her more. If that wasn’t complicated enough, having watched his parents’ disastrous marriage growing up, he’s convinced a happily-ever-after is not in the cards for him. Meanwhile, Michaela, one of the youngest real estate lawyers in her very prestigious firm, is working very hard to get a highly coveted project. Constantly working against being underestimated, she is not giving up just yet. Although she doesn’t have much time for dating, she’s a big believer in fairy-tale endings. Could the hockey player next door meet the challenge?
I really enjoyed this and couldn’t put it down! As mentioned, I read the previous 6 books and had to pick this one up as well! This book met my expectations and more! Blake and Michaela were just so perfect for each other. Their chemistry was just outstanding! It was also interesting reading/listening to the deeper topics covered like Blake’s home life. I honestly loved them both! Blake was just so thoughtful, sincere, nerdy, but so fun! And Michaela, although there was some insecurities there from her previous relationship, she was hard working (never giving up) and I just wanted her to win in her personal and professional life! This book truly was fun, with the right amount to serious.
Narrated by Scott Rose and Samantha Brentmoor. They both were fantastic. Rose did amazing with the portrayal of the sexy, caring, and sincere man that was Blake. His voice really fitted the character. Whilst Brentmoor was also fantastic as the sassy, lawyer that was Michaela. The pacing and tone of the narration was superb! Both narrators truly brought the story and characters to life! I highly recommend!
(Audio Review)
Book #7 within the Playmakers series (but can be read as a standalone), Twister Wrister is about Blake Barrett and Michaela Wagner. After reading the previous 6 books in the series, I was excited to keep going with this book. And as always, I was not disappointed!
Blake has been working hard and is becoming a star on his hockey team, the Colorado Blizzard, whilst his teammate, roommate, and best friend falls behind. This drives a wedge in their friendship. To complicate things further, they both meet their temporary neighbour Michaela. They both take a liking to her and would like to get to know her more. If that wasn’t complicated enough, having watched his parents’ disastrous marriage growing up, he’s convinced a happily-ever-after is not in the cards for him. Meanwhile, Michaela, one of the youngest real estate lawyers in her very prestigious firm, is working very hard to get a highly coveted project. Constantly working against being underestimated, she is not giving up just yet. Although she doesn’t have much time for dating, she’s a big believer in fairy-tale endings. Could the hockey player next door meet the challenge?
I really enjoyed this and couldn’t put it down! As mentioned, I read the previous 6 books and had to pick this one up as well! This book met my expectations and more! Blake and Michaela were just so perfect for each other. Their chemistry was just outstanding! It was also interesting reading/listening to the deeper topics covered like Blake’s home life. I honestly loved them both! Blake was just so thoughtful, sincere, nerdy, but so fun! And Michaela, although there was some insecurities there from her previous relationship, she was hard working (never giving up) and I just wanted her to win in her personal and professional life! This book truly was fun, with the right amount to serious.
Narrated by Scott Rose and Samantha Brentmoor. They both were fantastic. Rose did amazing with the portrayal of the sexy, caring, and sincere man that was Blake. His voice really fitted the character. Whilst Brentmoor was also fantastic as the sassy, lawyer that was Michaela. The pacing and tone of the narration was superb! Both narrators truly brought the story and characters to life! I highly recommend!
September 30, 2021
Well - Ms. Brady has knocked it out of the park again! Twisted Wrister is the 7th book in the Playmaker series and she just keeps getting better and better (except for TJ, of course!).
Blake and Michaela don’t get off to the best start but that’s okay because his best friend and roommate Owen is seriously Jonesing for her and so Blake sets out to be the perfect wingman. But what happens when the girl has no interest in the roommate but is slowly realizing there is more to Blake than first meets the eye.
But even though Owen swears he is crazy about Michaela he keeps acting like a total douche, even going so far as dating another girl and lying to M about it! All the while Blake is developing deeper feelings and is torn between loyalty to his best friend and his feelings for Michaela. Throw in some crazy family drama and Blake’s entire life goes off the rails!
Will Blake finally man up and confront Owen about his feelings? And if he does will Michaela understand and give him another chance? You won’t regret reading this book! It’s one of her best yet!
Blake and Michaela don’t get off to the best start but that’s okay because his best friend and roommate Owen is seriously Jonesing for her and so Blake sets out to be the perfect wingman. But what happens when the girl has no interest in the roommate but is slowly realizing there is more to Blake than first meets the eye.
But even though Owen swears he is crazy about Michaela he keeps acting like a total douche, even going so far as dating another girl and lying to M about it! All the while Blake is developing deeper feelings and is torn between loyalty to his best friend and his feelings for Michaela. Throw in some crazy family drama and Blake’s entire life goes off the rails!
Will Blake finally man up and confront Owen about his feelings? And if he does will Michaela understand and give him another chance? You won’t regret reading this book! It’s one of her best yet!
October 3, 2021
Twisted Wrister follows Blake, a rising hockey star who has some demons from his upbringing. Michaela is a super smart young attorney who ends up being his neighbor, and she isn't a fan of his from the jump LOL! He's drawn to her, but his best friend calls dibs (I mean dibs?!) so Blake feels like he needs to stand down & become the wingman which said bestie (Owen) doesn't deserve to be honest. See Owen's actions don't match what's coming out of his mouth, and he's such a jerk that no woman should want to be with him in my opinion. Things take a turn as Blake & Michaela keep getting thrown together so the sparks are really flying at this point but Blake is truly a great guy who doesn't want to hurt his totally selfish friend, which only makes him better in my eyes. Twisted Wrister was an emotional story that I enjoyed very much, and I'm super excited to go back & read the previous books in this series since G.K. Brady is a new to me author so color me a new fan! You really need to read this book so get to one clicking since I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
October 27, 2021
A welcome new team player on my favourite hockey team! Blake is a charmingly sweet man who isn’t always aware of how awesome he is. Michaela is an ambitious attorney who has put her life on pause for her career—until she meets her next door neighbour, the rising centre of the Blizzards. This is a variation on the friends to lovers theme. They’re both attracted to each other, but Blake’s best friend is also taken with her. Blake’s sense of loyalty makes him determined to keep it in the friendship zone, until they can’t any longer.
I loved how their relationship blossoms, and how Michaela slowly helped Blake change his view on relationships. I really connected with her. She works far too much and has so much more to give than to be behind a desk. Her patience with Blake’s troubled mother was wonderful. And it was great to see some of my favourite players and their wives from the previous books.
A really enjoyable low angst read that scores point with me. Looking forward to the next one!
I loved how their relationship blossoms, and how Michaela slowly helped Blake change his view on relationships. I really connected with her. She works far too much and has so much more to give than to be behind a desk. Her patience with Blake’s troubled mother was wonderful. And it was great to see some of my favourite players and their wives from the previous books.
A really enjoyable low angst read that scores point with me. Looking forward to the next one!
September 29, 2021
I can not express enough just how much I loved Blake in this book. Most books I read that are sports romances the main male character is super alpha and is a bit of a player. And I honestly love those types of characters. But every now and then when I read about a character that is just a genuinely sweet great guy I cannot get enough of it. His little snippets of trivia had me not only enamored even more with him, but chuckling along with some of the stranger ones.
But not to take anything away from Michaela, in any other book she would be my favorite character. She is independent, a little bit stubborn but has such a huge heart for everyone that is part of her world.
Truly some magnificent storytelling from one of my very favorite authors. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
But not to take anything away from Michaela, in any other book she would be my favorite character. She is independent, a little bit stubborn but has such a huge heart for everyone that is part of her world.
Truly some magnificent storytelling from one of my very favorite authors. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
October 3, 2021
I loved this couple! It was definitely not an easy road for them, but they found ways to make it work. Blake was an interesting character, he is a center with an amazing wrist shot. He knows what he is doing on the ice, but struggles with insecurity in relationships. I also love how he uses trivia, it's so cute. Michaela is a real estate lawyer working toward a partner position. She is crazy busy, but wants love too. When they met, it was definitely interesting, not exactly starting off on the right foot. Blake did not want to fall for Michaela. His roommate wants to date her, but he keeps being sent instead. It was extremely steamy, a bit much for me. I had to keep reading to see how these two overcame all of the obstacles in their way to find happiness. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like hockey and romance.
October 3, 2021
This is one of the best books in The Playmaker Series to date. It is right up there with Taming Beckett: A Bad Boy Sports Romance (The Playmakers Series Hockey Romances Book 1), one of my all time favorite hockey romances. I could not put it down, the emotions and characters just drew me right in. Blake and Michaela are new neighbors and despite an awful first encounter, slowly become friends. It is endearing how they both fight their attraction to be more than friends while at the same time continuing to establish deeper emotional connections. As an added plus, characters from previous books in the series make appearances throughout. You just can’t get better than that.
I was given an ARC for my honest review.
I was given an ARC for my honest review.
September 28, 2021
4
My heart bled for Blake and I loved how much of a good friend he was to Owen and his chemistry with Micky was amazing. I hated Ferguson to be honest, I thought he was a narcissistic terrible friend and he soured the mood of the book for me to be fully honest.
I couldn’t wait for Blake and Michaela to see what was right in front of them.
It was refreshing that Blake was the one showing insecurities when it came it his feelings and actions, then learning to find his confidence. It was also nice to have him be a little inexperienced compared to Michaela as well.
For my first book by this author, I really enjoyed it and look forward to finding more books through them.
Hockey, lawyer, neighbors, nerdy jock, HEA, ARC for honest review
My heart bled for Blake and I loved how much of a good friend he was to Owen and his chemistry with Micky was amazing. I hated Ferguson to be honest, I thought he was a narcissistic terrible friend and he soured the mood of the book for me to be fully honest.
I couldn’t wait for Blake and Michaela to see what was right in front of them.
It was refreshing that Blake was the one showing insecurities when it came it his feelings and actions, then learning to find his confidence. It was also nice to have him be a little inexperienced compared to Michaela as well.
For my first book by this author, I really enjoyed it and look forward to finding more books through them.
Hockey, lawyer, neighbors, nerdy jock, HEA, ARC for honest review
October 1, 2021
"4
My heart bled for Blake and I loved how much of a good friend he was to Owen and his chemistry with Micky was amazing. I hated Ferguson to be honest, I thought he was a narcissistic terrible friend and he soured the mood of the book for me to be fully honest.
I couldn’t wait for Blake and Michaela to see what was right in front of them.
It was refreshing that Blake was the one showing insecurities when it came it his feelings and actions, then learning to find his confidence. It was also nice to have him be a little inexperienced compared to Michaela as well.
For my first book by this author, I really enjoyed it and look forward to finding more books through them.
Hockey, lawyer, neighbors, nerdy jock, HEA, ARC for honest review "
My heart bled for Blake and I loved how much of a good friend he was to Owen and his chemistry with Micky was amazing. I hated Ferguson to be honest, I thought he was a narcissistic terrible friend and he soured the mood of the book for me to be fully honest.
I couldn’t wait for Blake and Michaela to see what was right in front of them.
It was refreshing that Blake was the one showing insecurities when it came it his feelings and actions, then learning to find his confidence. It was also nice to have him be a little inexperienced compared to Michaela as well.
For my first book by this author, I really enjoyed it and look forward to finding more books through them.
Hockey, lawyer, neighbors, nerdy jock, HEA, ARC for honest review "
October 2, 2021
Another great read by Ms. Brady. Her writing in engaging and addicting. I was hooked from the beginning. Her characters are relatable and their kirks give them an extra boost.
Blake is an endearing character, he's so insecure yet shaped by a family dynamic that leaves him skeptical of love. While M is independent and work focused but still believes in love. When they meet it makes for an interesting chemistry and soon love has a way of creeping in.
I received a free copy of this book and I voluntarily reviewed it.
Blake is an endearing character, he's so insecure yet shaped by a family dynamic that leaves him skeptical of love. While M is independent and work focused but still believes in love. When they meet it makes for an interesting chemistry and soon love has a way of creeping in.
I received a free copy of this book and I voluntarily reviewed it.
February 8, 2024
This was a fun, emotional story. I love the chemistry & banter between Blake & Michaela
There were a lot of emotions, some upheaval, some frayed & fractured friendships, some hard & difficult truths, dysfunctional relationships. There were also amazing friendships, forgiveness, hope and love.
Both Blake & Michaela had things they had to deal with and overcome. The story was full of spice, sassiness and snark, falling hard & fast.
I absolutely loved the narration by Samantha Brentmoor, she always does an amazing job bringing her characters to life.
Scott Rose did a great job, bringing out all the layers of Blake, and his friends.
There were a lot of emotions, some upheaval, some frayed & fractured friendships, some hard & difficult truths, dysfunctional relationships. There were also amazing friendships, forgiveness, hope and love.
Both Blake & Michaela had things they had to deal with and overcome. The story was full of spice, sassiness and snark, falling hard & fast.
I absolutely loved the narration by Samantha Brentmoor, she always does an amazing job bringing her characters to life.
Scott Rose did a great job, bringing out all the layers of Blake, and his friends.
September 30, 2021
This is the first I've read of the series and holy cow! I need to go back and read them all! There is so much I want to say about his book, but I also don't want to give any spoilers. So instead I'll just say I love the characters, the steam, the hockey, and their happy ending!
*I am leaving an honest and voluntary review after receiving this book as an arc.
*I am leaving an honest and voluntary review after receiving this book as an arc.
September 29, 2021
I really liked Michaela. I she was quirky and sweet. Blake was a little closed off but considering his home life, I could see why. His family was pretty messed up. I haven’t read any of the other book in the series so I might just have to remedy that.
October 27, 2021
“ In my recent review of Not Another Billionaire, I complained that the book needed “more heart”. Well, I found all it’s missing heart and then some. This book has heart in spades.
I’m about to feel like one of the Three Bears, though, and say that this one has too much heart and too little editing.
The biggest problem is that the book is 100 pages too long. This wouldn’t be an issue if the 100 pages were actual, you know, plot, but they are just heart eyes.”
Full review here: https://fiftytwo.blog/2021/10/06/arc-...
I’m about to feel like one of the Three Bears, though, and say that this one has too much heart and too little editing.
The biggest problem is that the book is 100 pages too long. This wouldn’t be an issue if the 100 pages were actual, you know, plot, but they are just heart eyes.”
Full review here: https://fiftytwo.blog/2021/10/06/arc-...
September 29, 2021
This is another good story in the series. I really liked Blake, how relatable he was, and what a good friend he is. His chemistry with Michaela was great too.
September 30, 2021
I absolutely loved this book. Blake and Michela together. Ahhh. Blake the socially awkward hockey player and michela a sassy lawyer are the perfect pair.
October 3, 2021
I've really enjoyed this series and Twisted Wrister is no exception. Lots of twists and turns and drama as Blake and M fumble their way through their trust issues, senses of loyalty (sometimes misplaced), and some serious chemistry. Didn't want to put this one down...
October 8, 2021
Probably more like 4.5 from me. Not my absolute favorite from the series but I’m partial to Quinn and Sarah 😂🤷🏼♀️ always excited to see what comes next from Brady in this series. Always a good time to be back in the world of the Blizzard and perhaps my desperation for hockey to be back after a shorter, but still too long, summer is showing in all my hockey reading lately 😂😍
October 12, 2021
Loved this book, I think it is favourite so far in the series.
Blake is a down to earth guy and has a heart of gold.
Michaela is a very independent and abut stubborn but loved her anyway.
This is a series you need to read.
I received a free copy of this book for an voluntary and honest review.
Blake is a down to earth guy and has a heart of gold.
Michaela is a very independent and abut stubborn but loved her anyway.
This is a series you need to read.
I received a free copy of this book for an voluntary and honest review.
October 13, 2021
Great book
I love reading this book about a very sensitive young man and woman. They took the time to really find each other.
I love reading this book about a very sensitive young man and woman. They took the time to really find each other.
October 18, 2021
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Blake Barrett finds himself when he learns family secrets, gets his eyes opened to what his lifelong best friend has become, and falls in love. Michaela Wagner dreams of climbing the ladder in her legal office by burning the midnight oil in the office forgoing fun. That is until she meets her neighbor, Blake. Little by little, she finds what really makes her happy.
I can usually read a novel in 1-3 days. This one took me 6. I like the story a lot and didn't see some things coming, but have to say it took me 4 of those days to get to the half way mark. From there it was much harder to put down. There are a lot of details included in some scenes that cause them to drag a little long for my liking. I'd never tell anyone not to read Twisted Wrister.
Blake Barrett finds himself when he learns family secrets, gets his eyes opened to what his lifelong best friend has become, and falls in love. Michaela Wagner dreams of climbing the ladder in her legal office by burning the midnight oil in the office forgoing fun. That is until she meets her neighbor, Blake. Little by little, she finds what really makes her happy.
I can usually read a novel in 1-3 days. This one took me 6. I like the story a lot and didn't see some things coming, but have to say it took me 4 of those days to get to the half way mark. From there it was much harder to put down. There are a lot of details included in some scenes that cause them to drag a little long for my liking. I'd never tell anyone not to read Twisted Wrister.
February 9, 2024
This was a cute story about a professional hockey player (Blake) and a hard working attorney (Michaela) who meet when she moves in next door to him. Blake’s roommate immediately sets his sights on their new neighbor, so Blake decides to play wingman for him. I liked that Blake was kind of awkward, but it drove me crazy how next level he was about the bro code when his friend was a total dirtbag. I am all about being a good pal but I couldn’t stand his bestie/teammate/roommate whose name I don’t even remember now because I tend to block out these types of characters 🤣 Michaela was a great FMC though - she was feisty, ambitious, and fun. I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed the performances by narrators Scott Rose and Samantha Brentmoor.
January 4, 2022
Center of my Heart!
I love the writings of this author, how she puts you right into the game!! Love all the trivia referrals in the book and the hottest between the two main characters. Their stories are different from ones I’ve read before but probably stories that have happened to others in real life. Like the sex scenes,which seem pure and not over the top or dirty.
I love the writings of this author, how she puts you right into the game!! Love all the trivia referrals in the book and the hottest between the two main characters. Their stories are different from ones I’ve read before but probably stories that have happened to others in real life. Like the sex scenes,which seem pure and not over the top or dirty.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews