Member Reviews
It's hard not to love Vaughn, he is a multifaceted hot hockey player. Brie has so much on your plate you expect her to fall over crying. And if course they about each other, cause the Sparks fly when they get around each other. And Rodney, thank you Toni for your focus on adults with Down Syndrome. This was very touching and I was so glad to see you include this in the narrative. |
Absolutely adore Vaughn and Brie and their relationship I love how they make each other vulnerable! Couldn't put this down! Love, Love, love this book!! Perfect addition to the series!! |
Gillian C, Educator
I really enjoyed this new book in the series. I like how it explored the challenges of having a relative with down's syndrome. I thought it handled that subplot with real sensitivity. It was a bit odd to me that the heroine didn't really have friends. |
This is my first book by this author and though I have never read this series before, it was wonderful and I was not lost at all. I LOVED Brie and Vaughn Johannson. This is a wonderful hate turning to love book. B and V have a hate on for each other. He is this hot hockey player nd she is the teams reporter. So they get thrown together alot and I loved them hating each other. Brie is aso taking care of her brother who has Downs and I loved this aspect of the story. There were some big surprises in that area of the story and I am not spoiling it. Eentually V and B discover they are attracted and I loved how Brie made V respect her and accept what she wanted out of relationship. V, at times drove me crazy because he really can't figure out what he want and how to get it. But I totally loved his craziness and his character. Definitely a fun read with characters I loved. |
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book This was an amazingly funny and wonderful book! It is the first book by this author I have read and I LOVED it, Yes it is one of a series but reads as a standalone book, Vaughn and Brie are so great, they have a hate hate relationship that turns into a love relationship, well at least for Brie, but you can tell Vaughn loves her as well, he just has been hurt so badly in the past he cant let anyone in. I LOVED the banter, the HOT HOT scenes, Jenson, Wren, Wess, and all the other characters that were in the book as well, I know I will be reading more from this author and this series!! I highly recommend this book |
Carolyn P, Reviewer
Love the Assassins Series! This book was great and had all things I love about this family of hockey. Brie Soledad is sexy, sweet and has the weight of the world on her shoulders taking care of her brother with Downs while paying off her mother's medical debt -worrying she isn't doing enough or being enough all the while starving for love and attention. Vaughn Johansson is the star and face of the Assassins. What most- well anyone - knows is Jojo-Joho- is really a humble, kind and altruistic man. I loved the interaction of Brie and Vaughn and the build up that while Brie didn't know his secret identity, the reader did and anxiously waits the discovery. This book was hot, sexy, but so compassionate that I cried several times. I love how Toni Aleo brings in the Adler family, as well as the other Assassins all the while enticing us with the next book. |
As usual, Toni Aleo knocks it out of the park! This was a true enemies-to-lovers story with scorching tension and attraction between Vaughn and Brie. Honestly, every fight they had felt like foreplay! However, underneath the attraction, the trust between them took a while to grow. Vaughn had to overcome the losses and betrayals in his past. Brie had to learn to trust Vaughn and depend on him. Overall, an excellent story and a good introduction to new Assassins' players! |
Ive been a fan of Toni's books for years and loved all her books and this was no exception. I haven't read something from Toni for a long while so when I had the chance to read her new book of course I jumped at the chance. This is the 11th book in the Assassins series and I loved it just as I loved all the rest. Vaughn and Brie have a love hate relationship, she is their team reporter and he is one of Assassins most cocky players, as soon as they see each other only insults for each other comes out of their mouths and let me just say it is hilarious especially when they help Brie take a couch into her apartment this was my favourite scene I could just see myself there laughing my ass off... But behind all the bickering there is a very strong attraction that they both fight off, the sexual tension is sizzling each time they are together no matter what comes out of their mouths. I loved the relationship that Brie had with her brother Rod and I loved the relationship that Vaughn had with Jensen and also his dog, we get to hear a bit about the other characters from previous books like Shea and Elli and Tate and Aubrey. This book is a emotional and also funny read. Toni's Assassin series is the only sports series that I actually adore I haven't really read sports books if it wasn't written by her and I dont intend too as I dont think anyone can top them. I'm not really a sports fan but if I had a love of any sport it would be hockey and that's all thanks to Toni. If you haven't read the books I suggest you go out and read them if your not a fan of sports trust me when I say this book will turn that right around as it did me. Cant wait to read the next one. I really think Wren and Jensen need a story *hint hint* lol |
Vaughn is what I would call an over-achiever at times, and he doesn't mind rubbing that in his friend's face, "Vaughn shrugged. “No, it was noodles and Prego. I make spaghetti, with slow-cooked sauce that was passed down from my great-grandma, pasta I made from scratch, and cheese I grated myself.” Vaughn really doesn't know how to grovel properly, “so you’re going to ignore me?” She only looked at the camera, but she could feel his gaze on her. “You look good.” Biting her lip, she kept her mouth shut. She wouldn’t give him an inch. Nothing. “Like, really good. I love your *** in that skirt.” I loved this book, Vaughn and Brie were so dang entertaining. |
Toni Aleo has once again given us another 5 star read in her Assassins Series, Delayed Call is book 11 but you can read it as a standalone. Vaughn Johansson star player with the Nashville Assassins and he knows it, he is cocky, brash and very talented, he lives life the way he wants too, romance is not for him. Brie Soledad is the staff reporter for the Assassins and Vaughn never makes her job easy but that's not all,she is the sole provider for her adult brother who has Down syndrome, romance is not in her life plan. The sparks always fly between Brie and Vaughn and not always in a good way but both of them are hiding secrets and it's those secrets that bring them together. This book brought out every emotion, I got angry, I laughed and I cried, it was read in one sitting and I have to say I think this is the best book in this series. Looking forward to more from The Nashville Assassins and Toni Aleo. |
I have always loved The Assassins series and I'm a Shea Adler girl down to the bone, but Vaughn nearly, and I mean nearly knocked him off the top as soon as he said "Don't worry, girl, I'm not whole either." But I can't do it, so he's come to a close second with my man Jordie. Shea is my main man and always will be. But damn if I still didn't fall for him so much! We first meet Vaughn Johansson and Brianna 'Brie' Soledad as two people who cannot stand each other, always picking at each other and bickering, but once they put that all aside and finally really looked at each other, boy do they fall in love. I feel like it was a slow burn throughout the book but when it finally started happening they fell hard. So hard. The connection between them both was just awe-inspiring and so strong. I loved their banter and bickering all through out the book. It had me laughing so much! The love Brie has for her brother Rodney is just out of this world. The things she does for him and the way she cares and hovers over him is so amazing. It's the perfect sibling relationship ever. And Rodney just stole my heart right away. Vaughn's story is so heartbreaking. It absolutely gutted me. But what he did with what happened was so inspiring. I can totally see why he was so afraid to love again but I'm so glad he finally let all those feelings in. And omg. Tricksie!! She was just a darling! I just wanted to cuddle up and love on her!! And I'm really hoping that in the further we get to read about Jensen and Wrens story. This book is completely worthy of the 5 stars I'm giving it. If I could give it more I totally would! Thankyou for this amazing book Toni! I absolutely loved it! |
Insomnia Inducing I’m functioning on minimal sleep today and Delayed Call is to blame. I absolutely ate up this book. The characters were likable- entertaining and lively. The story was comfortable but with enough deviations from stereotypical plot points to avoid monotony, and I laughed. I laughed so much. Delayed Call is the 11th book in Aleo’s Assassins series but can be read as a standalone. I’ve only read one novel and a short by the author and I had no trouble following along with the characters or team dynamics. As a hockey fan, the book contained a solid amount of details to satisfy me but not so many that would deter a reader who isn’t into the sport. Beyond a sports romance, it’s also an enemies to lovers story. Of course that means conflict from the jump and this couple doesn’t disappoint with the disgruntled comments and volatile interactions. The pacing was steady for the most part. There were bursts of exciting moments as conflicts reached their peak, but there were also moments the pacing slowed as the main characters warred over how to handle situations and the budding romance. Though the stop and start of the relationship slowed the plot a little, it never felt like the story stalled out and the consistent character growth kept my attention. I generally enjoy the damaged character angle because it allows for marked development throughout the storyline. Once the full backstories come out, Brie’s failure to trust and Vaughn’s refusal to commit makes sense. Yes, it’s frustrating, but the author never sweeps their issues under the rug or makes them magically disappear. The growth feels natural, hiccups and all. I really liked that the stereotypical plot points weren’t used to resolve the conflicts. It kept me engaged and invested in the characters. While I loved many aspects of Brie and Vaughn’s story, the dialogue was the clear winner for me. I am a sucker for good banter and Delayed Call had some of the best I’ve read in a long time, maybe ever. The characters all played off one another and I laughed frequently. The conversations flowed incredibly well- whether serious, playful, or squabbling- and it brought the story and characters to life. I’m not normally a re-reader of books, even if I’ve enjoyed them, but Delayed Call is certainly worthy of that. This sports romance was very well-balanced. It had the full range of emotions, stellar main and secondary characters, plenty of steam, “aww” inducing sweet moments, a whopping dose of humor, and of course HOCKEY. If you’re in the need of a pick me up, this is the book to pick up. |
I follow the series since the beginning and I was intrigued about the story of the couple. The interaction between the two in the earlier book was a preliminary of what would happen in this book. The heroes have a face they show to the world and quite another to just view the people they love and causes that they are dedicated and they really care. Things are not always what they seem. I confess that I was surprised with the very essence of the hero and the maternal side of heroin. He transmitted a picture of frivolity and irresponsibility. She conveyed an image of woman in a bad mood and just focused on the work. I loved the dialogues and constant confrontation between the heroes generated funny scenes and annoying at the same time. I was hoping that the two would be together soon and imagining the hot scenes and the Fireworks to come between the couple. I loved seeing my favorite couple Shea and Elli being present. I was curious about the friends of the hero and I'm looking forward to their story. The author did not disappoint fans of the series and presented us with a hot story to read and left us wanting more. Recommend! |
Having followed the Assassin Series both in ebook and print, I couldn't wait for Brie and Vaughn's story to come out. Vaughn is a cocky no hold barred guy and I have to respect him for being honest, even when it hurts someone he cares about. Brie has a lot going on in her life and she's looking for a long term commitment. Two opposites that are so attracted to each other, neither can let go. Vaughn and Brie's road to an HEA is a rocky one for sure but they end up getting the win just when you'd think all is lost. I loved the back story of Rod and his fighting for his independence and Brie's tug of war against it. It was great to see some of those whose stories have been told, ie. Shea and Elle. I find myself looking forward, wondering if we will get Wren and Jensen's and if possibly Matty has changed (And it would have to be major!) and save Wells from a marriage that doesn't seem to be a match made in hockey! One click Vaughn and Brie's story to find out how they go from Rock em Sock Robots to having a love to last a lifetime! |
Denise P, Reviewer
OMG this is another amazing book by Toni Aleo. Vaughn and Brie just didn't see eye to eye. They fought about everything. This series and book is a must read. She amazes me with every book.. |
Hockey romance is my favorite genre so I was highly anticipated ready this book. Toni Also has created a hockey series that is absolutely amazing! In this book, Brie and Vaughn have both experienced heartache and disappointment. Both have built up a wall however throughout the novel they discover unexpected truths about each other. There's definitely chemistry between the two. This novel is filled with humor, romance, love and compassion. The story is well written and was surprisingly not predictable. I had a difficult time putting the book down. This book by far is one of my favorites!!! |
Toni Aleo has done it again! Another hat trick in the Assassin’s series. I fell in love with Vaughn Johansson, star player for the Assassins, in Chapter 1 when he adopts a 3-legged French bulldog and names her Tricksie. I fell in love with him again when we find out what he has been keeping from everyone except his best friends and what a kind, selfless and generous man he really is. He was easy to fall in love with over and over again for many reasons and yet at the same time easy to want to punch in the nuts as we see Brie wanting to do often. Once they stopped bickering long enough to cut through their sexual tension and actually be together, it is explosive! Brie is a no nonsense, take no crap kind of woman. I just love her, she is so awesome!! She sure had some colorful names for Vaughn before they got to know each other and even after. I was laughing a lot and really enjoyed their banter throughout the book. Brie and Vaughn together are hot, fun, flirty, sexy, funny and amazingly real. As a reporter for the team, she only knew what she thought she saw on the surface and she did not like him and did not hold that back at all. She finds out that there are so many more layers to him. Vaughn didn't think he had room for a relationship or if he could ever love again until Brie. I just love how their relationship unfolds and where they end up! They rival for favorite Assassin couple with Shea & Ellie for sure and that is saying something. Highly recommended read and a fantastic addition to one of my favorite series!! Thanks to Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. Reviews ill be up on Amazon, B&N, ibooks on release day. |
When I requested this book, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. Not only has it earned 5 solid stars, but also added a new automatic buy name to my must read authors list. Delayed Call is the first book I've read by Toni Aleo and even though it was the 11th book in her Assassin's series it was easily read as a stand-alone novel but also gave insight into other characters, who all were amazing. Cool thing about discovering this author now is that there are a ton of other books I get to read, but sucks because there are a lot to buy lol but if they're anything like this book it will totally be worth the money. Brie was amazing, strong, independent and took no crap from Vaughn. but the true shinning star in the story was Vaughn. The level of cockyness jumped up just by him being him. And although she forgave some of the crap he dished out to her more than I felt she should have, seeing them come together was totally worth it. Rod was such a great character. I'm looking forward to reading Wrens story, and I hope that one is next because I'll be watching for it. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for a honest review. |








