Van: A Cold Fury Hockey Novel

Another great addition to the Cold Fury series! Although Van is book 9 in the series, it can be read as a standalone. The timeline runs parallel, however, to the previous book, Lucas, so it might enhance the experience if you've read that one prior to starting Van. Van and Simone were a classic case of opposites attract. He was broody and closed off, while she was feisty and transparent. I actually was surprised by how aggressive and persistent she was in getting what she wanted. The two of them shared some incredible chemistry and witty banter and I enjoyed watching them go toe to toe with each other. All of it combined together for an explosively sexy result. Simone confused me a bit, going from extremely mature and insightful for a 22 year old, to bratty and petulant the next. I did respect that she stood her ground when it mattered and wouldn't allow herself to be anyone's doormat, but as much as I liked her, I can't say that I loved her. Van was more consistent in his behavior, living up to his reputation as a broody jerk for the majority of the book. Readers who are fond of alpha a-holes will absolutely love him. ;) Some of the words that came out of his mouth though were so cutting, they left me reeling. He was carrying some heavy baggage though and I could sympathize with him as he battled his demons. What didn't quite add up was his emotional 180 at the end, but by that point I was invested in these 2 and wanted them to find their HEA. Even though each book in the series can be read as a standalone, I love getting little snippets about the Cold Fury family. It's a fun little treat for fans of the series. The epilogue, though somewhat surprising, was not completely unexpected and was perfect for the story. It definitely left me with a shiny happy heart. *I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book*

The only thing that saves this book from being absolutely horrible is the titled character, Van. The main female character, Simone, is simply awful, and she does not have the charms nor lovability of her brothers, whom we meet in "Max" and "Lucas." No matter how many times the author tries to call Simone charming and interesting, she falls far short of actually making the character so. In fact, if Simone was a man, her behavior, at best, would be considered harassing and predatory. While the author is fantastic at writing male characters, her females characters fall way short of the same likability standards at least 2/3rds if the time, and Simone is the absolute worst one yet. As much as I wanted to read the rest of Van's story, I had to give up halfway through, something I've rarely ever done as an avid reader.

"I didn't want her in my head, but she's firmly planted there now." Van Turner is distant, closed off, and broody. Simone Fournier is bright, beautiful, incredibly sexy, and as stubborn and persistent as they come. "I think it's impossible for you to do anything but shine." Simone wants Van in her bed and, unfortunately, Van is not immune to her charms and her sassiness. No matter how cold and nasty he is towards her, she won't be put off. When she pushes him a tad too far, he's all over her. However, letting her in makes him face his personal demons. "I know you, Van Turner...And I think you're mighty fine." This was a great story. I love a hardass, badass hero! My heart really felt for Van as he lives with his fears and fights his desire for Simone. Simone was so supremely confident in herself and her feminine wiles. She was so damn pushy that I almost felt sorry for Van! LOL. However, I loved how she breached his walls, and her belief in Van, as well as the trust that built between them. This story was heart-melting and super hot!