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Duster
Opposites attract, but love conquers all - even for a nerdy NHL defenseman who needs to get his head in the game.
From the moment the enigmatic Mona wins a date with me at a charity bachelor auction, our connection is undeniable.
To outsiders we're total she has a masters in psych and I'm a professional hockey player with a PhD in Shakespearean lit, but underneath it all we've found that we have a lot of shared interests and we just...fit.But when my overachieving family interferes in my career, and puck bunnies and bloggers target our relationship, I have to wonder if our bond is stronger than any obstacle.
Add in the pressures of the NHL and the ever-looming question of whether I'm truly NHL material or simply the Romeo to her Juliet, Mona and I must fight to prove that we can overcome anything life throws our way.
Because even though we seem an unlikely match, we're perfect for each other. I'm not letting Mona go.
And now it's time to stand up for the woman that I love.
From the moment the enigmatic Mona wins a date with me at a charity bachelor auction, our connection is undeniable.
To outsiders we're total she has a masters in psych and I'm a professional hockey player with a PhD in Shakespearean lit, but underneath it all we've found that we have a lot of shared interests and we just...fit.But when my overachieving family interferes in my career, and puck bunnies and bloggers target our relationship, I have to wonder if our bond is stronger than any obstacle.
Add in the pressures of the NHL and the ever-looming question of whether I'm truly NHL material or simply the Romeo to her Juliet, Mona and I must fight to prove that we can overcome anything life throws our way.
Because even though we seem an unlikely match, we're perfect for each other. I'm not letting Mona go.
And now it's time to stand up for the woman that I love.
299 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 26, 2024
About the author
Colleen Charles
115 books1,161 followersAfter 26 years in Corporate leadership at a Fortune 500, I discovered people within the organization lacked integrity. I’d always known deep in my soul that I was trying to fit a square peg in to a round hole since I’m the typical creative type. I miss my staff but I don’t miss the corporate world. It’s been said that the Universe will let you know if something isn’t right for you. The first time, it will hit you with a pebble. Then a brick. Then a boulder. Let’s just say that I got flattened. When my fifteen pound toy dog, Nigel, was threatened, I knew it was time to say goodbye.
It’s true.
Here’s what I found within the first thirty days of being free. Writing stories from my heart that readers love means more to me than working myself in to an early grave for people who only care about their bottom line.
My heart has never been more full and my soul has never been more satisfied.
I’ve never worked so hard in my life but it doesn’t even feel like work. It’s worth it. All of it. Because it’s about the joy that’s found within the journey. The highs and the lows because I get to write stories for all of you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, enjoying and recommending the stories that I write. When you share my work with others, nothing is more rewarding. Your word of mouth is my very best friend … that, and your reviews. There is nothing more important to me than all of you.
I love to hear from my readers and answer all communications personally. You can find me at:
It’s true.
Here’s what I found within the first thirty days of being free. Writing stories from my heart that readers love means more to me than working myself in to an early grave for people who only care about their bottom line.
My heart has never been more full and my soul has never been more satisfied.
I’ve never worked so hard in my life but it doesn’t even feel like work. It’s worth it. All of it. Because it’s about the joy that’s found within the journey. The highs and the lows because I get to write stories for all of you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, enjoying and recommending the stories that I write. When you share my work with others, nothing is more rewarding. Your word of mouth is my very best friend … that, and your reviews. There is nothing more important to me than all of you.
I love to hear from my readers and answer all communications personally. You can find me at:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
February 8, 2024
Oliver has been such a unique character throughout the series and the one I most wanted to read more about. A hockey player with a PhD in Shakespearean literature that constantly spouts random facts... until he clams up around Mona. I felt so bad for him constantly belittled by his family and bullied into what his father planned for him. No wonder he's always in his own head. The literary flirting was absolutely perfect for these two quirky characters. I love how the characters in this series have become so close like a family and you can see each couple's continuing story in the next books of the series. I'm looking forward to finding out who stars in the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 25, 2024
Oliver and Mona's romance was as funny as it was poignant. I adored this couple, and I didn't think they could be more perfect for each other. I loved the uniqueness of both of these characters and the amazing chemistry they shared. Filled with heartstring tugging, big laughs, plenty of swoon and lots and lots of feels, this book was a definite delight to read.
January 25, 2024
4.5
“Duster” is the eighth book in the Vegas Venom series by Colleen Charles. It’s an opposites attract, hockey romance with interesting characters and a surprisingly emotional story. It’s written so that you can enjoy it even if you aren’t yet familiar with series. If this is your first book in the series, you’re likely to want to go back to the beginning and enjoy them all!
Oliver is probably the only guy in the NHL with a doctorate in Shakespearean literature. He’s accustomed to being the strange one in a community of jocks, and not quite fitting in with his teammates. When he meets Mona, a psychologist who works at a book store owned by the wife of one of his teammates Oliver is smitten. He’s Incredibly attracted to her which brings out his social awkwardness. Mona is as big a book fan as Oliver, but she’s also a “goth girl” with reading tastes to match. When she suddenly sees past Oliver’s nerdy shell, she’s surprised to find that all they have more common than she thought. They each have a lot of emotional baggage, however, and a lot to deal with if they are going to make things work between them.
This story is full of laugh-out-loud moments, intense family drama, and some super-steamy encounters between the main characters. The secondary characters are plentiful; you will recognize most of them if you’ve read previous Vegas Venom books. (I also enjoyed smooth references to the brother of one of the Vipers, who had a key role in this author’s recently released book, Zamboner). The camaraderie between the hockey players and between the women in their lives help make the pages fly by. All the relationships and interactions in the book are brought to life by clever, engaging dialogue and entertaining scenes. I enjoyed the ending, and the introduction of new players. I’m glad to say this series is still going strong!.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily sharing my thoughts and opinions.
“Duster” is the eighth book in the Vegas Venom series by Colleen Charles. It’s an opposites attract, hockey romance with interesting characters and a surprisingly emotional story. It’s written so that you can enjoy it even if you aren’t yet familiar with series. If this is your first book in the series, you’re likely to want to go back to the beginning and enjoy them all!
Oliver is probably the only guy in the NHL with a doctorate in Shakespearean literature. He’s accustomed to being the strange one in a community of jocks, and not quite fitting in with his teammates. When he meets Mona, a psychologist who works at a book store owned by the wife of one of his teammates Oliver is smitten. He’s Incredibly attracted to her which brings out his social awkwardness. Mona is as big a book fan as Oliver, but she’s also a “goth girl” with reading tastes to match. When she suddenly sees past Oliver’s nerdy shell, she’s surprised to find that all they have more common than she thought. They each have a lot of emotional baggage, however, and a lot to deal with if they are going to make things work between them.
This story is full of laugh-out-loud moments, intense family drama, and some super-steamy encounters between the main characters. The secondary characters are plentiful; you will recognize most of them if you’ve read previous Vegas Venom books. (I also enjoyed smooth references to the brother of one of the Vipers, who had a key role in this author’s recently released book, Zamboner). The camaraderie between the hockey players and between the women in their lives help make the pages fly by. All the relationships and interactions in the book are brought to life by clever, engaging dialogue and entertaining scenes. I enjoyed the ending, and the introduction of new players. I’m glad to say this series is still going strong!.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily sharing my thoughts and opinions.
January 24, 2024
Oliver and Mona were a story I’ve been interested in from the start, and it definitely didn’t disappoint. I read this book in 5 hours which would’ve been less if I wasn’t at work or driving or on the phone for part of the time. Did I read at stop lights and while on the phone with someone after? Absolutely.
I’ve read all the other guys’ stories, and Oliver’s character has been one I wanted to know more about since his first interaction within the series. It’s not often you find a MMC with his personality. Usually, they’re pushed as the secret nerdy but uber sporty guy or the shy quiet nerdy guy. There’s never a balance. Oliver though? This man’s the perfect balance. I almost wish he existed outside of the pages.
These two are perfect for each other. Both had a lot of personal growth to invest in from the start of the book, but they flew past that finish line before the clock had even started. Watching Oliver find his place and witnessing Mona open up to some color? It was by far the best.
I cried a couple times. (Fellow book nerd.) I laughed a lot especially when I could relate to the awkward moments both shared. And I definitely sighed at other scenes. One day, I’ll hand someone this book when they want to know about my standards.
I wish I could read another book about these two. The pages flew by.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 13, 2024
Oliver and Mona were a story I’ve been interested in from the start, and it definitely didn’t disappoint. I read this book in 5 hours which would’ve been less if I wasn’t at work or driving or on the phone for part of the time. Did I read at stop lights and while on the phone with someone after? Absolutely.
I’ve read all the other guys’ stories, and Oliver’s character has been one I wanted to know more about since his first interaction within the series. It’s not often you find a MMC with his personality. Usually, they’re pushed as the secret nerdy but uber sporty guy or the shy quiet nerdy guy. There’s never a balance. Oliver though? This man’s the perfect balance. I almost wish he existed outside of the pages.
These two are perfect for each other. Both had a lot of personal growth to invest in from the start of the book, but they flew past that finish line before the clock had even started. Watching Oliver find his place and witnessing Mona open up to some color? It was by far the best.
I cried a couple times. (Fellow book nerd.) I laughed a lot especially when I could relate to the awkward moments both shared. And I definitely sighed at other scenes. One day, I’ll hand someone this book when they want to know about my standards.
I wish I could read another book about these two. The pages flew by.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I’ve read all the other guys’ stories, and Oliver’s character has been one I wanted to know more about since his first interaction within the series. It’s not often you find a MMC with his personality. Usually, they’re pushed as the secret nerdy but uber sporty guy or the shy quiet nerdy guy. There’s never a balance. Oliver though? This man’s the perfect balance. I almost wish he existed outside of the pages.
These two are perfect for each other. Both had a lot of personal growth to invest in from the start of the book, but they flew past that finish line before the clock had even started. Watching Oliver find his place and witnessing Mona open up to some color? It was by far the best.
I cried a couple times. (Fellow book nerd.) I laughed a lot especially when I could relate to the awkward moments both shared. And I definitely sighed at other scenes. One day, I’ll hand someone this book when they want to know about my standards.
I wish I could read another book about these two. The pages flew by.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 30, 2024
A story of love, heart, differences, and happy endings
What a magnificent romance!! Colleen Charles
has always had a way of making her characters stand out from the crowd. She’s outdone even herself with Oliver and Mona. Oliver is so unique, as a man who loves to play hockey but also has a PhD in Shakespeare. He’s anxious and insecure with family drama weighing heavy on his subconscious. Mona is her own brand of unique, with her goth style, love of obscure poetry, and a no nonsense attitude.
The more these two characters spend time together due to mutual friends, the harder it is to ignore the chemistry between them. Then life throws unexpected curve balls that has these two temporarily cohabitating, and that chemistry can no longer be ignored. What it brings are intensely HOT scenes as well as sweet heartwarming scenes. Colleen does an amazing job blending these scenes together and making them part of the story and not an after thought.
Every book by this author is a must read for me and I’m so glad I jumped on this one. You don’t often read romances where both main characters are struggling with their inner voices and their insecurities. This book handles it beautifully and with so much realness. I couldn’t get enough and I can’t wait to see where these two will be in the future as this interconnected series continues.
What a magnificent romance!! Colleen Charles
has always had a way of making her characters stand out from the crowd. She’s outdone even herself with Oliver and Mona. Oliver is so unique, as a man who loves to play hockey but also has a PhD in Shakespeare. He’s anxious and insecure with family drama weighing heavy on his subconscious. Mona is her own brand of unique, with her goth style, love of obscure poetry, and a no nonsense attitude.
The more these two characters spend time together due to mutual friends, the harder it is to ignore the chemistry between them. Then life throws unexpected curve balls that has these two temporarily cohabitating, and that chemistry can no longer be ignored. What it brings are intensely HOT scenes as well as sweet heartwarming scenes. Colleen does an amazing job blending these scenes together and making them part of the story and not an after thought.
Every book by this author is a must read for me and I’m so glad I jumped on this one. You don’t often read romances where both main characters are struggling with their inner voices and their insecurities. This book handles it beautifully and with so much realness. I couldn’t get enough and I can’t wait to see where these two will be in the future as this interconnected series continues.
February 10, 2024
Oliver and Mona had a less than auspicious encounter in Briggs and Layla’s book (Vegas Venom #7 Brawler) and I was iffy in how this next book would turn out. I shouldn’t have ever doubted because Colleen delivered a story that was both emotional and entertaining.
Oliver is incredibly smart, he has a PhD in Shakespearean Literature), but he is pretty much an outsider socially. He doesn’t seem capable of ‘reading a room’ and some feelings get hurt, miscommunication happens and then some.
Mona is also extremely intelligent, but she’s not into mainstream attitudes. She has a Master’s degree in Psychology and she’s fairly introspective and outspoken. Her first impression of Oliver was less than positive, but she feels some common ground with him when she she’s him struggling during a hockey game she attends with her boss/Noah’s wife Molly.
These two have an unusual beginning to their relationship - circumstances seem to push them together until sparks flare and then ignite into some sizzling encounters.
I enjoyed their journey, the awkwardness and the support from the Venom players and their significant others.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Oliver is incredibly smart, he has a PhD in Shakespearean Literature), but he is pretty much an outsider socially. He doesn’t seem capable of ‘reading a room’ and some feelings get hurt, miscommunication happens and then some.
Mona is also extremely intelligent, but she’s not into mainstream attitudes. She has a Master’s degree in Psychology and she’s fairly introspective and outspoken. Her first impression of Oliver was less than positive, but she feels some common ground with him when she she’s him struggling during a hockey game she attends with her boss/Noah’s wife Molly.
These two have an unusual beginning to their relationship - circumstances seem to push them together until sparks flare and then ignite into some sizzling encounters.
I enjoyed their journey, the awkwardness and the support from the Venom players and their significant others.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 18, 2024
This is the 8th book in the Vegas Venom series featuring Oliver and Mona's sweet opposites attract hockey romance. We've met Oliver in the previous books in this series and who could ever forget Oliver and Mona's less than stellar meeting in Brawler(Briggs and Layla's)story. Oliver is not your typical hockey player he's super smart and he has a PHD in Shakespearean Literature but he's also socially awkward. Mona is also extremely smart she has a master's degree in Psychology although she's outspoken and somewhat of a loner. When she first met Oliver he didn't make a great impression on her but Mona soon sees him in a different light. When she attends a hockey game with her boss Molly who's Noah's wife and she witnesses Oliver struggle. I don't want to say anymore and ruin it for anyone else with spoilers. You really need to read this sweet opposites attract hockey romance to see happens. I would recommend reading this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 27, 2024
I soooo love the Venom guys and their ladies. Oliver and Mona are both very quirky and considered odd. Both have always been outsiders. Both live literature. She is pretty judgmental of people, but it is not really discussed even when she has issues with people being judgmental of her. I did not like that part. She just thinks to herself that she was wrong about them. Oliver really doesn’t understand how to interact with people. Like, at all. His family walks all over him and he never says a word. His family are overall pretty awful people. The Venom and Venom WAGs draw Oliver and Mona in and accept them. Oliver messes up pretty badly multiple times. They have serious communication issues that Mona lays at his feet until the end. She has a huge part in that problem as well. There are tons of laughs and growth. We can’t have the Venom without them being an absolute riot—they are truly hysterical. Just all around awesome story.
I received a free copy of this book.
I received a free copy of this book.
February 5, 2024
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a complimentary copy. We met Oliver in the previous Vegas Venom books and now we truly get to know him. Oliver may seem like your normal hockey player but there is more to him, he has a PhD in Shakespeare and drama with his family. Mona works at a bookstore and she loves poetry and literature. Mona and Oliver meet through friends and their is a strong attraction between them. They are so cute together and there are some really funny moments, especially Oliver's dirty talk.
There are some obstacles Oiver's family, as well as Oliver and Mona own personal issues and yes Oliver messes up but he does make up for his mistakes. Mona and Oliver are perfect for each other but will they let the issues around them keep them apart?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There are some obstacles Oiver's family, as well as Oliver and Mona own personal issues and yes Oliver messes up but he does make up for his mistakes. Mona and Oliver are perfect for each other but will they let the issues around them keep them apart?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2024
I volunteered to read this ARC for an honest review. I enjoyed this story about Mona and Oliver. Oliver plays hockey for the Venom, a defense player, or in his case the duster. Mona is a goth, book loving nerd who works at a bookstore with her friend Molly. They have had several interactions since Molly is a hockey players wife. But Oliver retreats into facts when nervous. When a charity auction gives then a chance to get to know each other better, they take the opportunity. When a water leak destroys her apartment, he offers to his extra room. The begin the dance of roommates only develop a deeper relationship. By when his family offends then both, Ollie doesn't stand up to them. But he finds a way to work it out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2024
I can’t believe this is book 8 of this series, I can’t get enough of these hockey players and their women.
I loved how Oliver has a PhD in Shakespeare (so cutely random) and is smart, and although he plays a team sport is a bit socially awkward.
Mona is also smart, works with Noah’s wife Molly, and throws off heavy Wednesday Addams vibes (which is awesome).
They’ve not had the best of starts but as they get to know each other they connect much better. When circumstances make her his roommate that’s when sparks ignite and they discover they’re meant for each other, but his family might throw a spanner in the works with their meddling.
Cute, snarky, sweet, steamy, awesome characters that have fun personalities and who grow as they story goes, a little against and a great HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved how Oliver has a PhD in Shakespeare (so cutely random) and is smart, and although he plays a team sport is a bit socially awkward.
Mona is also smart, works with Noah’s wife Molly, and throws off heavy Wednesday Addams vibes (which is awesome).
They’ve not had the best of starts but as they get to know each other they connect much better. When circumstances make her his roommate that’s when sparks ignite and they discover they’re meant for each other, but his family might throw a spanner in the works with their meddling.
Cute, snarky, sweet, steamy, awesome characters that have fun personalities and who grow as they story goes, a little against and a great HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 26, 2024
I love Oliver and Mona. The tastes you get in the previous books was just not enough. The dynamic they create between the two is just perfect. I also love that they show a couple who are completely in love with each other. That also know they don't want children. They show the other side that is not usually pictured as a happily ever after. My only hang up is that their issue was not really an issue and could have been avoided with communication that was just blatantly disregarded. They had an issue with Mona and his parents that could have been explored a little more. It was slightly but I felt it also was just a moment that was thrown together. But I love this book and Colleen Charles does a fantastic job of making her characters feel real. Like they are people you would hang out with after work. Such a great series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 18, 2024
One Declaration
Do not listen to anyone who tells you this man "grovels within an inch of his life".
He does the bare minimum at best. And they just immediately have sex after, and everything is all good. If you're going to make a 3rd act breakup, especially one that is an accumulation of terrible things he has done, then the make up needs to be just as good. I want to read about actual change and groveling.
Mona forgiving him the way she did went against every fiber of who the author built up as the FMC.
Oliver is one of the worst MMCs I've ever read. I love an odd, shy, weird mmc, but I will want to read about them being spineless and passive when it comes to disrespect against their woman.
I guess if you like that, or you like conflict over quickly and don't mind men actually being held accountable, this book is for you.
Do not listen to anyone who tells you this man "grovels within an inch of his life".
He does the bare minimum at best. And they just immediately have sex after, and everything is all good. If you're going to make a 3rd act breakup, especially one that is an accumulation of terrible things he has done, then the make up needs to be just as good. I want to read about actual change and groveling.
Mona forgiving him the way she did went against every fiber of who the author built up as the FMC.
Oliver is one of the worst MMCs I've ever read. I love an odd, shy, weird mmc, but I will want to read about them being spineless and passive when it comes to disrespect against their woman.
I guess if you like that, or you like conflict over quickly and don't mind men actually being held accountable, this book is for you.
February 9, 2024
This is book 8 in Charles' Vegas Venom series and while it can be read as a standalone I feel like I really want to go back and read the first books in this series. This book is opposites attract; sports themed (hockey) romance read. Our main characters are Oliver and Mona who come thru so wonderfully. A captivating and smooth flowing storyline that's well written, emotional, with humor and of course the romance - sweet and steamy! I so enjoyed this read, was captivated by these characters from the very beginning and while I'm looking forward to more I definitely want to go back and read all the books thus far in this series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 10, 2024
MMC/FMC- Oliver and Mona
POV- 1st person dual
Genre- Contemporary Romance
Sub Genre- Sports Romance (Hockey)
Heat- 🌋🌋🌋 They do the thing and sometimes name the parts
Series? Y
Safety- there’s no cheating or S.A.
Triggers- Erotic Content
Thoughts- I liked that the hero was flawed and definitely not an Alpha Male, and that he grew during the course of the book. And I loved that the kids called the heroine “Wednesday” (after Wednesday Addams). It’s spot on because she’s a pretty grumpy Goth Girl. I’d have liked to see a little more growth from the heroine, but all in all, the book was light and entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
POV- 1st person dual
Genre- Contemporary Romance
Sub Genre- Sports Romance (Hockey)
Heat- 🌋🌋🌋 They do the thing and sometimes name the parts
Series? Y
Safety- there’s no cheating or S.A.
Triggers- Erotic Content
Thoughts- I liked that the hero was flawed and definitely not an Alpha Male, and that he grew during the course of the book. And I loved that the kids called the heroine “Wednesday” (after Wednesday Addams). It’s spot on because she’s a pretty grumpy Goth Girl. I’d have liked to see a little more growth from the heroine, but all in all, the book was light and entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 22, 2024
NHL, poetry and people who are different from most. People who stand by who they are and are proud about it, yet are still vulnerable on their inside as of course badmouthing someone is always that, bad. How I loved reading this story. I really enjoye stories like this one, a part of a series where each leading character has his own story and you also get to hear about them, who were the leading characters in their own story. This one is just so fabulously smashing that five stars are the absolute minimum I can give it, since there are no more available.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 29, 2024
Good Lord, Colleen did it again.
I never thought I’d enjoy Ollie’s POV, or Mona’s for that matter- but my goodness they’re precious. His inability to realize how much he needs to stand up for someone he loves really hit home for me, and I just genuinely did adore this book. I’m obsessed with the Vegas Venom Series (and all the others too), and this book was no surprise to be a winner in my heart, just like the others.
Colleen makes these hockey players have amazing backgrounds outside of the game.
I truly loved this book, it was worth the anticipation that’s built while waiting for it to be released.
I can’t WAIT for Coop’s story! 😍
I never thought I’d enjoy Ollie’s POV, or Mona’s for that matter- but my goodness they’re precious. His inability to realize how much he needs to stand up for someone he loves really hit home for me, and I just genuinely did adore this book. I’m obsessed with the Vegas Venom Series (and all the others too), and this book was no surprise to be a winner in my heart, just like the others.
Colleen makes these hockey players have amazing backgrounds outside of the game.
I truly loved this book, it was worth the anticipation that’s built while waiting for it to be released.
I can’t WAIT for Coop’s story! 😍
February 9, 2024
The only thing that comes closes to Oliver’s love of literature is his love of hockey. From the moment that he meets Mona he senses a kindred soul however his approach isn’t always as smooth as he would like.
Mona has two sides to her personality as well which include her love of literature as well as goth. Even though she may have had her reservations when they first met the more she gets to know him the more she wants to know.
The personalities of Oliver and Mona couldn’t be more different, but they also understand each other in a way that others don’t. There is a great combination of humor, heat and heart as Oliver and Mona have some obstacles to overcome.
Mona has two sides to her personality as well which include her love of literature as well as goth. Even though she may have had her reservations when they first met the more she gets to know him the more she wants to know.
The personalities of Oliver and Mona couldn’t be more different, but they also understand each other in a way that others don’t. There is a great combination of humor, heat and heart as Oliver and Mona have some obstacles to overcome.
March 11, 2024
This series about the Vegas Venom and their horrible boss is fun and emotional and easy to read. Cash has been my favorite up to now. Ollie and Mona have taken the top couple honors. I love how awkward Ollie can be. I love how snarky Mona is. I love her second guessing everything. She is so fixed in her thoughts about so many things. I love how smart Ollie is but yet he is also so unsure of so much. I love the team, Briggs and Ranger and Marco and all the girls. This is a fun read with some laugh out loud moments.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 5, 2024
4.5 ⭐
This is definitely my favourite so far I think, I loved Oliver already from the other books and his introverted/shy nature is so sweet, I also love how they talked and realised that they need to get better at communicating and it was a very mature conversation, they both grew in the book and it seemed realistic, like this could actually have been two people in real life and I would genuinely think that they would last in the long run, they were so sweet and so cute and I love how all of the Women are so supportive, it's really nice to see, I really enjoyed this one, got through it quite quickly too
This is definitely my favourite so far I think, I loved Oliver already from the other books and his introverted/shy nature is so sweet, I also love how they talked and realised that they need to get better at communicating and it was a very mature conversation, they both grew in the book and it seemed realistic, like this could actually have been two people in real life and I would genuinely think that they would last in the long run, they were so sweet and so cute and I love how all of the Women are so supportive, it's really nice to see, I really enjoyed this one, got through it quite quickly too
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2024
Mona knew how she felt about marriage and kids. She loved her best friends kids. So when she meets Oliver the PhD/Hockey player, she felt annoyed even though he excited her. In the end, their chemistry and love for so many things alike, they were meant to be.
Oliver had been infatuated with Mona for a while. He thought she would never give him the time of day until she finally gives him forever.
Great read by Colleen Charles. I have loved this Vegas Venom series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Oliver had been infatuated with Mona for a while. He thought she would never give him the time of day until she finally gives him forever.
Great read by Colleen Charles. I have loved this Vegas Venom series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 9, 2024
Another absolutely delightful read about the Vegas Venom family. The author has a way of making you feel part of the Venom family. Oliver has always intrigued me with his uniqueness in previous stories and I loved his love journey with Mona. Laugh out loud moments, sweetness, acceptance, miscommunications, nasty family, doubts, insecurities, hot hot moments, wonderful found family, Kleenex moments, growth, and heartfelt moments lead to a sweet HEA. Love this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 9, 2024
Loved it! I love that they're both awkward but they totally embrace each other's little quirks and that, not to fit in but to really put themselves out there, they try new things, open themselves up to just more, friends, feelings, the idea that maybe they're more than just their quirks and can be appreciated. As always this book is funny, like lol funny. This group of friends is an absolute blast! And I love that they all support each other and they are in full force for Mona and Ollie. So good and a perfect addition to the Vegas Venom!
March 12, 2024
Oliver and Mona... a couple of nerds that (almost) fit in with their group of mutual friends. They're spending time together because of said friends. It takes them a bit to quit ignoring their chemistry. It's steamy, just a bit angsty, and I love the closeness of the team and their partners - a great family. This is book 8 in the series, and is an amazing addition. I've enjoyed the entire series, and am glad that there are more books coming. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 31, 2024
amazing
I have been curious about Oliver since he first appeared in the other books and I was so excited to finally get his story. It was amazing. He and Mona could not have been more perfect for each other. It was a sweet and sad story that left you with all the feels (as this series always does). Loved all the funny antics from the rest of the team characters that I’ve come to love. And the ending was a book lovers dream come true. Loved it.
I have been curious about Oliver since he first appeared in the other books and I was so excited to finally get his story. It was amazing. He and Mona could not have been more perfect for each other. It was a sweet and sad story that left you with all the feels (as this series always does). Loved all the funny antics from the rest of the team characters that I’ve come to love. And the ending was a book lovers dream come true. Loved it.
February 9, 2024
5 stars of Colleen Charles awesomeness
Colleen Charles has delivered yet another brilliant 5 star read. From the very first page I was hooked with Oliver & Mona's story & couldn't put the book down until I had finished. He's a nerdy hockey player & she's a quirky character. Together their story draws you in & you can't help but laugh along the way. An absolute brilliant addition to a fantastic series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Colleen Charles has delivered yet another brilliant 5 star read. From the very first page I was hooked with Oliver & Mona's story & couldn't put the book down until I had finished. He's a nerdy hockey player & she's a quirky character. Together their story draws you in & you can't help but laugh along the way. An absolute brilliant addition to a fantastic series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2024
Colleen Charles is the queen of hockey romances. This series is one of the best I have ever read! This is Oliver and Mona’s story, and probably my most favorite. This is one quirky, nerdy, and precious couple, who are complete opposites. I loved their banter and their chemistry was hot. As always, brilliant storytelling and amazing characters. So good!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 15, 2024
Love this series. Oliver plays for the Venom. Mona works at a bookstore. There is a charity auction and Oliver is one of the bachelor. Mona was given money to bid in him so there’s no embarrassment. When they went on the date, they got along great. After their date, there was an accident and Oliver offered her a place to stay. All is well until it wasn’t.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 18, 2024
This is the 8th book in this incredible series, and this is NHL defenseman Oliver, and Mona’s story.
This is a well written story which is easy to read, and has family, friendships, undeniable chemistry, opposites attract, humor, witty banter, emotions, romance, and love, which leads to an entertaining and steamy page turner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a well written story which is easy to read, and has family, friendships, undeniable chemistry, opposites attract, humor, witty banter, emotions, romance, and love, which leads to an entertaining and steamy page turner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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