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D.C. Stars #2
Power Play
Piper Mitchell needs one thing to go her way.
Divorced, feeling stuck in her professional life and terrified of reentering the world of dating, she’s decided she’s going to work on something she can control: learning how to be good in the bedroom.
Enter Liam Sullivan.
The star NHL goalie might not be a people person, but he's the perfect teacher. He knows what he's doing behind closed doors, and with a little convincing, he agrees to be Piper's guide.
Things between them are casual and easy. Something they can both benefit from. And when a road trip to Vegas has Piper and Liam waking up from a night they can’t remember with matching wedding rings, they decide to figure out how much more fun they can have as husband and wife.
It’s just for the hockey season.
It doesn’t mean anything.
But as the clock ticks down on their fake-marriage-with-benefits, can Piper and Liam make it work in the real world? Or will their relationship be a power play straight to disaster?
Divorced, feeling stuck in her professional life and terrified of reentering the world of dating, she’s decided she’s going to work on something she can control: learning how to be good in the bedroom.
Enter Liam Sullivan.
The star NHL goalie might not be a people person, but he's the perfect teacher. He knows what he's doing behind closed doors, and with a little convincing, he agrees to be Piper's guide.
Things between them are casual and easy. Something they can both benefit from. And when a road trip to Vegas has Piper and Liam waking up from a night they can’t remember with matching wedding rings, they decide to figure out how much more fun they can have as husband and wife.
It’s just for the hockey season.
It doesn’t mean anything.
But as the clock ticks down on their fake-marriage-with-benefits, can Piper and Liam make it work in the real world? Or will their relationship be a power play straight to disaster?
Kindle Edition
First published October 24, 2024
About the author
Chelsea Curto
17 books2,216 followersChelsea is a flight attendant and romance author who writes fun, fresh and flirty love stories with plenty of spice. When she's not making fictional characters banter for twenty chapters before they finally kiss or serving chicken or pasta on an airplane, you can find her trying to pet as many dogs as she can.
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COME SAY HI!
Instagram: www.instagram.com/authorchelseacurto
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chelseareadsa...
Newsletter: https://authorchelseacurto.myflodesk....
Website: www.authorchelseacurto.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,998 reviews
November 3, 2024
sadly i didn’t like this as much as face off! but i still had a lot of fun!
the few things i didn’t like: it felt verryyy dragged out and long for no reason, tropes were just randomly thrown in there for no reason at all and at some points they didn’t even make any sense, the character development was lacking a lot & piper brought up her ex husband every five seconds and i could not stand it.
the things i liked a lot: this found family is so superior i love seeing the entire team!!!!!! their texts, banter, dynamic everything about the friendships! i also liked the communication between piper & liam!
very very very excited for the other books!
the few things i didn’t like: it felt verryyy dragged out and long for no reason, tropes were just randomly thrown in there for no reason at all and at some points they didn’t even make any sense, the character development was lacking a lot & piper brought up her ex husband every five seconds and i could not stand it.
the things i liked a lot: this found family is so superior i love seeing the entire team!!!!!! their texts, banter, dynamic everything about the friendships! i also liked the communication between piper & liam!
very very very excited for the other books!
February 8, 2025
"𝑳𝒊𝒂𝒎?" "𝒀𝒆𝒂𝒉?" "𝑪𝒂𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒌𝒊𝒔𝒔 𝒎𝒆 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏? 𝑷𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆?"
"𝑰 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌 𝑰'𝒎 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒃𝒆𝒈."
THIS BOOK!!!!!! 🥵
I’m not just steaming from the spice(which was amazing btw) I'm steaming because a grumpy guy going soft for his girl is absolutely ama-zing to read. Period. I adored every second, and even though it was thick, I could’ve kept reading MORE. LIAM AND PIPER 4EVER! 😍
Piper Mitchell is a broadcaster reporter for the DC Stars, divorced and determined to regain her confidence. She’s on a mission to explore everything the love department has to offer, minus the commitment 🔥 She’s all about rediscovering herself before diving into the dating pool again.
Enter Goalie Daddy Liam Sullivan a hockey star with no time for anything but the game except maybe some bedroom lessons for Piper, since she asked so nicely and he finds her VERY attractive 👀 Did I mention he needs her to play the part of his fake girlfriend for a family wedding? 🥂
AND IM NOT EVEN SAYING THE BEST PART let's just say the trip to Vegas in the book ended up rather nicely for them.
The tension, the banter, and the emotional growth were everything I could ask for. Their chemistry was off the charts, and watching Liam slowly let down his walls was just so satisfying. Piper’s journey toward rediscovering herself was inspiring and felt so real and relatable damn. This story had all the sweetness, spice, and heart I wanted and honestly? I could’ve read a hundred more pages of these two falling for each other aghhhhh
I can’t stop raving about this book! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The relationship was freaking amazing to watch unfold not only did Liam take such good care of Piper, but seeing her rediscover her confidence had me screaming, YESSS GIRL, GET IT! 🙌🔥
"𝑾𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒊𝒔 𝒏��𝒄𝒆. 𝑨 𝒉𝒐𝒕 𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒓 𝒊𝒔 𝒏𝒊𝒄𝒆. 𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏'𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝑰 𝒕𝒐𝒖𝒄𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒏𝒊𝒄𝒆. 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒊𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒅-𝒃𝒍𝒐𝒘𝒊𝒏𝒈."
The best part of this book, I swear, wasn’t even the plot or the main tropes it was the MICROTROPES! I adored every single one❤️🔥 taking care of her, forehead kisses, bringing her lunch, spoiling her, washing her hair... OMG, I could keep going, but I’ll stop. Seriously. READ. THE. BOOK. 📖🔥
Tropes
🏒 hockey sports romance
🏒 bedroom lessons
🏒 grumpy x sunshine
🏒 marriage of convenience (accidental)
🏒 fake dating
Thank you Lovenotes PR and Chelsea Curto for giving me an eARC in exchange for my honest review
⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.
𝗽𝗿𝗲-𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱｡ꪆৎ ˚⋅ this ARC just hit my kindle and it’s sports romance more precisely a grumpy hockey goalkeeper 👀 gimme
"𝑰 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌 𝑰'𝒎 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒃𝒆𝒈."
THIS BOOK!!!!!! 🥵
I’m not just steaming from the spice(which was amazing btw) I'm steaming because a grumpy guy going soft for his girl is absolutely ama-zing to read. Period. I adored every second, and even though it was thick, I could’ve kept reading MORE. LIAM AND PIPER 4EVER! 😍
Piper Mitchell is a broadcaster reporter for the DC Stars, divorced and determined to regain her confidence. She’s on a mission to explore everything the love department has to offer, minus the commitment 🔥 She’s all about rediscovering herself before diving into the dating pool again.
Enter Goalie Daddy Liam Sullivan a hockey star with no time for anything but the game except maybe some bedroom lessons for Piper, since she asked so nicely and he finds her VERY attractive 👀 Did I mention he needs her to play the part of his fake girlfriend for a family wedding? 🥂
AND IM NOT EVEN SAYING THE BEST PART let's just say the trip to Vegas in the book ended up rather nicely for them.
The tension, the banter, and the emotional growth were everything I could ask for. Their chemistry was off the charts, and watching Liam slowly let down his walls was just so satisfying. Piper’s journey toward rediscovering herself was inspiring and felt so real and relatable damn. This story had all the sweetness, spice, and heart I wanted and honestly? I could’ve read a hundred more pages of these two falling for each other aghhhhh
I can’t stop raving about this book! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The relationship was freaking amazing to watch unfold not only did Liam take such good care of Piper, but seeing her rediscover her confidence had me screaming, YESSS GIRL, GET IT! 🙌🔥
"𝑾𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒊𝒔 𝒏��𝒄𝒆. 𝑨 𝒉𝒐𝒕 𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒓 𝒊𝒔 𝒏𝒊𝒄𝒆. 𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏'𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝑰 𝒕𝒐𝒖𝒄𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒏𝒊𝒄𝒆. 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒊𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒅-𝒃𝒍𝒐𝒘𝒊𝒏𝒈."
The best part of this book, I swear, wasn’t even the plot or the main tropes it was the MICROTROPES! I adored every single one❤️🔥 taking care of her, forehead kisses, bringing her lunch, spoiling her, washing her hair... OMG, I could keep going, but I’ll stop. Seriously. READ. THE. BOOK. 📖🔥
Tropes
🏒 hockey sports romance
🏒 bedroom lessons
🏒 grumpy x sunshine
🏒 marriage of convenience (accidental)
🏒 fake dating
Thank you Lovenotes PR and Chelsea Curto for giving me an eARC in exchange for my honest review
⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.
𝗽𝗿𝗲-𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱｡ꪆৎ ˚⋅ this ARC just hit my kindle and it’s sports romance more precisely a grumpy hockey goalkeeper 👀 gimme
October 26, 2024
I thought about writing a long rant, but when I looked at my notes, I realized it would take forever to go through each point, so I just decided against it. And tbh, it doesn't seem worth the effort. 🤷♀️
I'm really frustrated with how much time I've put into this book, only to end up feeling pretty disappointed. 😩 It also annoyed me that I spent way more time into this story than I usually do for something that's over 500 pages long, because it was sooo dragged out for no reason. Some parts felt repetitive and unnecessary, like they were just written as fillers. I don't think this book needed to be that long; it could've been a bit shorter, maybe just a few pages less. 🥴
Ngl, this is definitely the least enjoyable book I've read from this author (by far), and that's saying something since I've usually rated her other works a solid 4 or 5 stars. I'm not thrilled to give this a 2, but I believe in being honest with my ratings all the time.
I was ready to give this a 1⭐, but the last 10% got a little better, and I like the pink theme on the book cover. So I decided to bump it up by another star just for that slight improvement. 🤷♀️
But would I recommend this book? I don't think so. Like I said, it's way too long for a story that's not even that complicated. 😮💨 There’s a lot of representation that was mentioned, but it didn’t really get explored much (dyslexia, ASL, chronic migraine, insufficient healthcare, women in sports, sexism, etc...) Also, there are a ton of tropes thrown in here; it felt a bit all over the place. 😬
Anyhoo, even though this one didn't really do it for me, I'm still looking forward to checking out the next books in the series. Hoping they're better than this. 🤞
Book info:
- Sports romance
- Spicy lessons/coaching 🙄
- Vegas wedding turned MOC
- Mention of infidelity (FMC's ex-husband)
- Grumpy (debatable) x Sunshine
- No cheating, OM/OW, separation
- No V
- HEA (they're still married, so... 🤷♀️)
Notes:
- Piper had been with her ex for a decade, but it appears she only received an O five times during that time. 😑 He's also the only man she's ever been with. So she's inexperienced AF, and Liam became her freaking teacher. 🤧
- Liam has never been with anyone for the last four years (since he met Piper, who was married at that time). He developed a crush on her but still didn't do anything once he found out she's single. If she hadn't asked him to teach her, I don't think anything would have happened to these two. 😒
I'm really frustrated with how much time I've put into this book, only to end up feeling pretty disappointed. 😩 It also annoyed me that I spent way more time into this story than I usually do for something that's over 500 pages long, because it was sooo dragged out for no reason. Some parts felt repetitive and unnecessary, like they were just written as fillers. I don't think this book needed to be that long; it could've been a bit shorter, maybe just a few pages less. 🥴
Ngl, this is definitely the least enjoyable book I've read from this author (by far), and that's saying something since I've usually rated her other works a solid 4 or 5 stars. I'm not thrilled to give this a 2, but I believe in being honest with my ratings all the time.
I was ready to give this a 1⭐, but the last 10% got a little better, and I like the pink theme on the book cover. So I decided to bump it up by another star just for that slight improvement. 🤷♀️
But would I recommend this book? I don't think so. Like I said, it's way too long for a story that's not even that complicated. 😮💨 There’s a lot of representation that was mentioned, but it didn’t really get explored much (dyslexia, ASL, chronic migraine, insufficient healthcare, women in sports, sexism, etc...) Also, there are a ton of tropes thrown in here; it felt a bit all over the place. 😬
Anyhoo, even though this one didn't really do it for me, I'm still looking forward to checking out the next books in the series. Hoping they're better than this. 🤞
Book info:
- Sports romance
- Spicy lessons/coaching 🙄
- Vegas wedding turned MOC
- Mention of infidelity (FMC's ex-husband)
- Grumpy (debatable) x Sunshine
- No cheating, OM/OW, separation
- No V
- HEA (they're still married, so... 🤷♀️)
Notes:
- Piper had been with her ex for a decade, but it appears she only received an O five times during that time. 😑 He's also the only man she's ever been with. So she's inexperienced AF, and Liam became her freaking teacher. 🤧
- Liam has never been with anyone for the last four years (since he met Piper, who was married at that time). He developed a crush on her but still didn't do anything once he found out she's single. If she hadn't asked him to teach her, I don't think anything would have happened to these two. 😒
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2024
I was anxious taking a chance on a hockey romance due to their extreme popularity on booktok since sports romances can go so sideways-but Power Play by Chelsea Curto has made me a convert. The first thing to know before picking it up is that it is SPICY. Like next level compared to a lot of contemporary romances. But you’re going to have to take my word for it that the spice is so well done you won’t mind its presence every few pages, and the surrounding story is so well written that you’ll be recommending this book to your best girlfriends in no time. This touches on some heavy topics like sexual harassment and gender discrimination in sports without feeling corny or over the top. It feels like Air Bud on ice (and I mean that in the BEST way possible) with this team of Golden Retriever hockey playing men that are so emotionally healthy you’ll do a double take. This is an immediate pick up if you’re into hockey romance or even just contemporary romance.
October 22, 2024
♾️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I don’t think I’ve ever fallen in love with two characters as fast as I did with Piper & Liam. I don’t think I’ll ever get over these two. I don’t think I ever want too.
I want to start off by saying that this book is DRASTICALLY different from Emmy & Mavericks story. In a wonderful way. A beautiful way. But very different. You still get the hilariousness that is the group chat, the teammate banter, the girl code chats, and you do get to see a lot of Em and Mav in this book, but Piper and Liam deserve all the attention here. They’re the true shining stars of their own love story.
Piper is finally out of a toxic marriage and she is hurting. Her confidence is shaken, and she’s lonely. All she wants is to find her person. But she doesn’t know where to even begin, when her experience begins and ends with her ex husband.
Liam is a grumpy goalie. RESPECTFUL, but grumpy. He likes being alone, and he likes his routine. He isn’t looking for any distractions from his one true love, hockey.
When Piper and Liam get a little personal one night, they come up with a solution to two problems that will benefit them both. With an expiry date of course. 😌
And after a wild night in Vegas, they end up in an even trickier situation than they previously thought ! 💍
This story was truly beautiful to experience. The self growth of both characters. The self confidence that grew and grew from Piper as the book progressed. Of course, the “how hard can it be? Boys do it.” That we saw a lot of in Face Off as well, was perfection. Overcoming fears. Overcoming heartbreak. And ultimately finding love in the place you least expected to.
There was ONE PART where Liam made a bit of an oopsie. One single slip up that he eventually grovelled back to Piper about, and she forgave him quickly, so I did too 😂
There is absolutely ZERO toxic masculinity in this book. Liam is the standard for book boyfriends, and I can’t wait for you all to experience this wonderful, perfect man. And his wonderful, perfect WIFE. (If you like “my wife” this is the book for you! 🥵) I mean, this man has a damn LIST of things Piper likes and doesn’t like, and PAYS ATTENTION to every single thing she says, does, or moans 😉
The spice was of course on point, and much spicier IMO than Face Off. I mean these two are FWB and having spicy lessons, how could it not be absolute 🔥? They’re LEARNING what the other likes and how to make it good for them. It was perfection. Just the right amount of heat vs. plot and I couldn’t ask for any more than what we got!
I fear I’ll keep raving about this book for the foreseeable future, and I’m not sorry about it one bit. I have nothing bad to say, and if you don’t see me shut up about them, well I’m not sorry about that either. Another ♾️⭐️ read from Chelsea that just made my entire life THAT much better.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I don’t think I’ve ever fallen in love with two characters as fast as I did with Piper & Liam. I don’t think I’ll ever get over these two. I don’t think I ever want too.
I want to start off by saying that this book is DRASTICALLY different from Emmy & Mavericks story. In a wonderful way. A beautiful way. But very different. You still get the hilariousness that is the group chat, the teammate banter, the girl code chats, and you do get to see a lot of Em and Mav in this book, but Piper and Liam deserve all the attention here. They’re the true shining stars of their own love story.
Piper is finally out of a toxic marriage and she is hurting. Her confidence is shaken, and she’s lonely. All she wants is to find her person. But she doesn’t know where to even begin, when her experience begins and ends with her ex husband.
Liam is a grumpy goalie. RESPECTFUL, but grumpy. He likes being alone, and he likes his routine. He isn’t looking for any distractions from his one true love, hockey.
When Piper and Liam get a little personal one night, they come up with a solution to two problems that will benefit them both. With an expiry date of course. 😌
And after a wild night in Vegas, they end up in an even trickier situation than they previously thought ! 💍
This story was truly beautiful to experience. The self growth of both characters. The self confidence that grew and grew from Piper as the book progressed. Of course, the “how hard can it be? Boys do it.” That we saw a lot of in Face Off as well, was perfection. Overcoming fears. Overcoming heartbreak. And ultimately finding love in the place you least expected to.
There was ONE PART where Liam made a bit of an oopsie. One single slip up that he eventually grovelled back to Piper about, and she forgave him quickly, so I did too 😂
There is absolutely ZERO toxic masculinity in this book. Liam is the standard for book boyfriends, and I can’t wait for you all to experience this wonderful, perfect man. And his wonderful, perfect WIFE. (If you like “my wife” this is the book for you! 🥵) I mean, this man has a damn LIST of things Piper likes and doesn’t like, and PAYS ATTENTION to every single thing she says, does, or moans 😉
The spice was of course on point, and much spicier IMO than Face Off. I mean these two are FWB and having spicy lessons, how could it not be absolute 🔥? They’re LEARNING what the other likes and how to make it good for them. It was perfection. Just the right amount of heat vs. plot and I couldn’t ask for any more than what we got!
I fear I’ll keep raving about this book for the foreseeable future, and I’m not sorry about it one bit. I have nothing bad to say, and if you don’t see me shut up about them, well I’m not sorry about that either. Another ♾️⭐️ read from Chelsea that just made my entire life THAT much better.
November 3, 2024
The only take away from this book was the cat’s name being Pico de Gato
Read
November 9, 2024Great for those who love the following tropes: friends with benefits, marriage of convenience and building self confidence 🩷
October 31, 2024
Freaking perfect, just like the first book. ✨✨✨ I’m so eager to read Hudson’s book. 🦦💜
November 6, 2024
do they want a third?
♾️⭐️
♾️⭐️
October 31, 2024
”be an idiot with me, piper. i’m begging you, because i’m head over heels for you.”
⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪ 4🌟
i’ve really enjoyed this one too!! chelsea’s writing is so quick and easy to read and i found myself immersed in her stories. piper and liam are such a cute grumpy/sunshine duo. on the outside liam is closed off and broody and doesn’t care for anything other than hockey, but deep down he is soft and sweet person who has been pining for piper for four years. they had to, of course, have friends with benefits arrangement. which again, isn’t my biggest cup of tea but if done good and right, i can enjoy it. they both helped each other out of their comfort zone, piper got more confident because of liam. he is patient teacher that’s all i’m going to say.🤭
i am kind of confused why is this marketed as “marriage of convenience” since they got married at like 50-60%? it’s not right from the beginning but oh well.NONETHELESS i had great time. i can’t wait enough for next one since it’s hudson book. it better be worth the wait or i’ll sue.👈🏼
“there’s something so raw, so human about sharing the things you’re most afraid of. it’s intimidating to put them out in the universe. to voice your fears and confront them head-on.”
“i would’ve always found you. and if i couldn’t find you, i would’ve waited for you. two years. three years or four. doesn’t matter.”
⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪ 4🌟
i’ve really enjoyed this one too!! chelsea’s writing is so quick and easy to read and i found myself immersed in her stories. piper and liam are such a cute grumpy/sunshine duo. on the outside liam is closed off and broody and doesn’t care for anything other than hockey, but deep down he is soft and sweet person who has been pining for piper for four years. they had to, of course, have friends with benefits arrangement. which again, isn’t my biggest cup of tea but if done good and right, i can enjoy it. they both helped each other out of their comfort zone, piper got more confident because of liam. he is patient teacher that’s all i’m going to say.🤭
i am kind of confused why is this marketed as “marriage of convenience” since they got married at like 50-60%? it’s not right from the beginning but oh well.
“there’s something so raw, so human about sharing the things you’re most afraid of. it’s intimidating to put them out in the universe. to voice your fears and confront them head-on.”
“i would’ve always found you. and if i couldn’t find you, i would’ve waited for you. two years. three years or four. doesn’t matter.”
November 10, 2024
súper para fangirlear
October 26, 2024
— ARC Review : 4 stars ✰
tropes :
🏒 age gap (she's older)
🎤 reporter x goalie
🏒 accidental marriage of convenience
🎤 fake dating
╰┈➤ I cannot begin to describe my excitement when I received this arc as I’ve been eagerly awaiting Liam and Piper’s story since Face Off! The chemistry between these two was palpable from the start, and the spice scenes? They were absolutely ON FIRE!! I was in awe at how perfectly written those moments were. Now, I’m absolutely counting down the days until I get to read Hudson’s story next!
────୨ৎ────
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Chelsea Curto for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
tropes :
🏒 age gap (she's older)
🎤 reporter x goalie
🏒 accidental marriage of convenience
🎤 fake dating
╰┈➤ I cannot begin to describe my excitement when I received this arc as I’ve been eagerly awaiting Liam and Piper’s story since Face Off! The chemistry between these two was palpable from the start, and the spice scenes? They were absolutely ON FIRE!! I was in awe at how perfectly written those moments were. Now, I’m absolutely counting down the days until I get to read Hudson’s story next!
────୨ৎ────
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Chelsea Curto for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
December 14, 2024
I just know this series is going to be sooooo good. Give me more NOW
November 19, 2024
I am so disappointed because I truly LOVED the first book in this series and was truly so excited to read this one🥺 however… Piper and Liam fell flat as a pancake for me and I ended up forcing myself to finish.
This book was way too long for what it was, there were tropes thrown in that added no real substance to the overall story and journey to the couple (absolutely no reason to put an accidentally marriage into this story), sex was too overwhelming to the point that it felt like the characters had no substantial connection without it, and Piper was unbearable (she mentions her ex so much, I think she needs actual therapy and not a sex coach but idk)… this was an absolute mess of a book and doesn’t even come close to what the first one was💔
This book was way too long for what it was, there were tropes thrown in that added no real substance to the overall story and journey to the couple (absolutely no reason to put an accidentally marriage into this story), sex was too overwhelming to the point that it felt like the characters had no substantial connection without it, and Piper was unbearable (she mentions her ex so much, I think she needs actual therapy and not a sex coach but idk)… this was an absolute mess of a book and doesn’t even come close to what the first one was💔
October 28, 2024
˚˖𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒✧˚.🎀༘⋆ Long live Queen Chelsea, def one of my favorite romance authors!! ˚˖𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒✧˚.🎀༘⋆
Power Play was such an amazing romance yall. I do not regret picking this up as soon as it came out. I know a Chelsea Curto book is going to be everything to me and this one was no different. I absolutely adored the dynamics, the friendships, the situations... you name it, I loved it.
This book follows Piper and Liam who work on the same hockey team. He's a grumpy hockey player while she's a sunshine reporter. They start this friends-with-benefits relationship where Piper agrees to fake date him for a wedding and Liam agrees to teach her all the things about sex. Of course, even though they start with "this is only for a while", "this doesn't mean anything", "we can't fall in love" etc. you know how it goes, IT DOESN'T GO THAT WAY ♡
ALSO!!! There's the "oops we got married in Vegas while drunk" trope hehe.
I'm loving the DC Stars series so much and I cannot wait to see who's next. You get to meet all the guys in the team in the first book and in Power Play you get more interactions, fun group chat convos, more team dinners, and definitely more chaotic hockey energy. Chelsea Curto easily is one of my favorite romance writers and I know that whenever she publishes a book, I'm going to love it so it's an easy read.
Power Play was such an amazing romance yall. I do not regret picking this up as soon as it came out. I know a Chelsea Curto book is going to be everything to me and this one was no different. I absolutely adored the dynamics, the friendships, the situations... you name it, I loved it.
This book follows Piper and Liam who work on the same hockey team. He's a grumpy hockey player while she's a sunshine reporter. They start this friends-with-benefits relationship where Piper agrees to fake date him for a wedding and Liam agrees to teach her all the things about sex. Of course, even though they start with "this is only for a while", "this doesn't mean anything", "we can't fall in love" etc. you know how it goes, IT DOESN'T GO THAT WAY ♡
ALSO!!! There's the "oops we got married in Vegas while drunk" trope hehe.
I'm loving the DC Stars series so much and I cannot wait to see who's next. You get to meet all the guys in the team in the first book and in Power Play you get more interactions, fun group chat convos, more team dinners, and definitely more chaotic hockey energy. Chelsea Curto easily is one of my favorite romance writers and I know that whenever she publishes a book, I'm going to love it so it's an easy read.
November 15, 2024
This was a cute story and I really enjoyed all the representation throughout this book and the main characters were perfect!
November 7, 2024
✨OB-FUCKING-SESSED ✨ Can I swear on Goodreads? I don’t know. But this book is SO deserving of it. I LOVE these tropes, I LOVED these characters, this world. This book did not feel like 500 pages, I could read 500 more.
This book was so special. It was more than a grumpy sunshine hockey romance. It was more than an accidental Vegas marriage. It was two characters finding themselves, finding absolute JOY within themselves and each other.
Liam has always crushed on Piper but she was married. She’s now divorced, having a hard time with her work colleagues and looking to improve her confidence in and out of the bedroom. Liam (after not much convincing) agrees to teach her.
This is one of the BEST “teach me” / spicy lessons books I’ve ever read. The personal healing and growth journey that Piper went on during these lessons (with Liam was so beautiful. They gave her the confidence within her personal and professional life and I was so proud of her. Watching these two fall in love with each other was so rewarding. I loved the vulnerability Piper showed, with always the upmost support from Liam. The healthy communication in this book deserves a special mention, too. I’ve never met two characters more destined for each other.
As with Face Off, the found family of this universe was absolutely wonderful and I want to go to Family Dinner so badly. The girl gang, the boys. The whole Stars franchise is so special.
Absolutely adored this book and I can’t wait for the rest of this series. If it’s anything like the first two, it’s shaping up to be one of my top hockey series ever.
Add to your tbr if you like:
- Hockey goalie x team broadcaster
- grumpy x sunshine
- “teach me” / spicy lessons
- accidental marriage
- fake dating
- found family
This book was so special. It was more than a grumpy sunshine hockey romance. It was more than an accidental Vegas marriage. It was two characters finding themselves, finding absolute JOY within themselves and each other.
Liam has always crushed on Piper but she was married. She’s now divorced, having a hard time with her work colleagues and looking to improve her confidence in and out of the bedroom. Liam (after not much convincing) agrees to teach her.
This is one of the BEST “teach me” / spicy lessons books I’ve ever read. The personal healing and growth journey that Piper went on during these lessons (with Liam was so beautiful. They gave her the confidence within her personal and professional life and I was so proud of her. Watching these two fall in love with each other was so rewarding. I loved the vulnerability Piper showed, with always the upmost support from Liam. The healthy communication in this book deserves a special mention, too. I’ve never met two characters more destined for each other.
As with Face Off, the found family of this universe was absolutely wonderful and I want to go to Family Dinner so badly. The girl gang, the boys. The whole Stars franchise is so special.
Absolutely adored this book and I can’t wait for the rest of this series. If it’s anything like the first two, it’s shaping up to be one of my top hockey series ever.
Add to your tbr if you like:
- Hockey goalie x team broadcaster
- grumpy x sunshine
- “teach me” / spicy lessons
- accidental marriage
- fake dating
- found family
October 26, 2024
unfortunately, this book was a miss for me. i think the author tried to include too many tropes and plot points. fake dating happened for maybe 2 chapters, marriage of convenience was so random and unnecessary, „women in sports” might have started good but after first half it was forgotten. furthermore, this books is just too long with too many sex scenes that i literally skipped cause they were getting repetitive. if you’re going to make a romance book this lengthy at least include some drama or anything at this point.
November 2, 2024
This was good but I also believe I am ovulating 💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💞
October 24, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
💓 Fake Dating
💓 Cat Daddy
💓 Grumpy x Sunshine
💓 Found Family
💓 Boy obsessed
I knew these two would be my favorites!
Hockey was Liam's whole life, but when a blonde who loves wearing pink steps into it, he realizes it's okay to change his priorities. I loved that Liam is grumpy with everyone, but with Piper, he's so patient and has this soft side just for her.
Piper's journey throughout the book was one of the things I loved the most. It wasn't just about her exploring new things, but also finally being with someone who appreciates her for who she is and treats her the way she deserves. Because of that, she gained so much confidence, and it was amazing to see. Another highlight was Liam learning that it's okay to balance his personal life with his professional one.
And the spicy scenes? My Kindle was on fire several times! Thank you, Chelsea, for this man. Proof that a patient guy is everything! 😏
These two will stay in my memory forever, and they definitely made it to my favorites of the year!
Thank you so much, Chelsea Curto, for the chance to read this ARC!
🌶🌶🌶
💓 Fake Dating
💓 Cat Daddy
💓 Grumpy x Sunshine
💓 Found Family
💓 Boy obsessed
I knew these two would be my favorites!
Hockey was Liam's whole life, but when a blonde who loves wearing pink steps into it, he realizes it's okay to change his priorities. I loved that Liam is grumpy with everyone, but with Piper, he's so patient and has this soft side just for her.
Piper's journey throughout the book was one of the things I loved the most. It wasn't just about her exploring new things, but also finally being with someone who appreciates her for who she is and treats her the way she deserves. Because of that, she gained so much confidence, and it was amazing to see. Another highlight was Liam learning that it's okay to balance his personal life with his professional one.
And the spicy scenes? My Kindle was on fire several times! Thank you, Chelsea, for this man. Proof that a patient guy is everything! 😏
These two will stay in my memory forever, and they definitely made it to my favorites of the year!
Thank you so much, Chelsea Curto, for the chance to read this ARC!
February 7, 2025
3.5⭐️
I enjoyed this but it was nowhere near as great as the first book imo… but that’s maybe because I REALLY loved the first book😅 This book was cute yet so hot! If you want SPICE with minimal plot yet great relationship development, then this one is for you. Once again, I loved the found family trope & the commentary on women in sports- I think Chelsea does a great job highlighting the sexism & unfairness that comes with women working in male dominated fields, but also gives us such badass fmc’s, as well as the most supportive feminist kings which lightens the energy. I thought this book dragged on a bit too much, & I slowly started to get bored of all the smut:/ but it was still enjoyable!
Piper is a ray of sunshine & a ball of energy! She is so friendly & outgoing which is the complete opposite of Liam. He is grumpy galore! He’s broody, reserved, & quiet, yet witty and has such funny dry humour that I loved getting to discover! I think their polar opposite personalities worked so well together & balanced each other out.
Their banter was amazing, the tension was palpable, the chemistry & passion were hot af, their sarcastic convos were funny, & they just had so much fun together which was so fun to see. I loved their relationship development and how easy it was for them to become comfortable with one another. They were such a healthy couple with great communication and lots of maturity which was wonderful to witness, especially since there was no 3rd act breakup👏🏼
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞: friends with benefits, hockey goalie x team broadcaster, grumpy x sunshine, accidental marriage, fake dating, found family, “teach me”
I enjoyed this but it was nowhere near as great as the first book imo… but that’s maybe because I REALLY loved the first book😅 This book was cute yet so hot! If you want SPICE with minimal plot yet great relationship development, then this one is for you. Once again, I loved the found family trope & the commentary on women in sports- I think Chelsea does a great job highlighting the sexism & unfairness that comes with women working in male dominated fields, but also gives us such badass fmc’s, as well as the most supportive feminist kings which lightens the energy. I thought this book dragged on a bit too much, & I slowly started to get bored of all the smut:/ but it was still enjoyable!
Piper is a ray of sunshine & a ball of energy! She is so friendly & outgoing which is the complete opposite of Liam. He is grumpy galore! He’s broody, reserved, & quiet, yet witty and has such funny dry humour that I loved getting to discover! I think their polar opposite personalities worked so well together & balanced each other out.
Their banter was amazing, the tension was palpable, the chemistry & passion were hot af, their sarcastic convos were funny, & they just had so much fun together which was so fun to see. I loved their relationship development and how easy it was for them to become comfortable with one another. They were such a healthy couple with great communication and lots of maturity which was wonderful to witness, especially since there was no 3rd act breakup👏🏼
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞: friends with benefits, hockey goalie x team broadcaster, grumpy x sunshine, accidental marriage, fake dating, found family, “teach me”
January 22, 2025
I did really enjoy this but I also thought there was a bit much going on. Most of it was absolutely adorable but I’m really bad with second hand embarrassment, so the sex lessons stuff was a bit uncomfortable for me.
I liked the fake dating aspect and all the little micro tropes but . I think there was so much thrown in that we also lost some other storyline’s.
Overall, it was completely adorable but has little too much thrown in.
I liked the fake dating aspect and all the little micro tropes but . I think there was so much thrown in that we also lost some other storyline’s.
Overall, it was completely adorable but has little too much thrown in.
November 13, 2024
Sadly Power Play wasn’t as good as Face Off. Though it delivered on found family values, dynamics and sisterhood between the team and Piper’s girlfriends it fell short in the other departments. The “teach me” trope was very focused on the physical and overshadowed the emotional connection I needed between Liam and Piper. I did get it but by then it was too late in the story. So I sadly didn’t feel invested in their love story.
The story was in my opinion way too long especially when it was very repetitive in the couple’s dialogue which at times revolved around the same issues so it kind of dragged.
All the characters were great and I’m going to continue on, cause I’m still curious about the remaining guys and in Hudson in particular.
The story was in my opinion way too long especially when it was very repetitive in the couple’s dialogue which at times revolved around the same issues so it kind of dragged.
All the characters were great and I’m going to continue on, cause I’m still curious about the remaining guys and in Hudson in particular.
October 26, 2024
I really enjoyed Piper and Liam's interactions in Book 1 of the DC Stars Series (Face-Off) so I was eager to read their story in Power Play. Unfortunately, I was disappointed with this one.
First, there were many instances where the pacing felt rushed and the conversations forced to further the plot. Early on, an entire chapter is devoted to a cringe-worthy girls' night convo where the FMC's issues are laid out simply to get the ball rolling. This type of approach to advancing the plot continues throughout the book in various admissions and conversations or in near monologues that go on for pages. It's all very glaring and issues are brought up in ways that are not at all organic. The conflict in this book is frequently unclear & there are way too many tropes/inclusivity attempts jammed into this overly long story.
I also really struggled with consistency in the characters. At times, Piper is so protective of Liam's wish for privacy. At others, she is divulging really personal details about their arrangement with mutual friends and colleagues before he has even consented to doing so. The locker room talk and banter between the teammates was off in this book whereas it was a highlight in the first book in the series. Piper is very much a people pleaser to the point of fawning and it was super ick when she did that in the bedroom.
At several points, I felt like I had already read this story. Perhaps it's partly because I've read quite a few hockey romances, but there were also several echoes of Business Casual by BK Borison here. It's possible that I am connecting thm because I happened to read the two back-to-back, but it felt odd that the silver formal event dress was described so similarily and the "you're my favorite" - "I've never been anyone's favorite" scenario happens in both books. Borison does it with finesse. Unfortunately, Curto's attempt lands flat.
The romance here is not believable and there is little if any emotional intimacy because they insist on this being a purely sexual 'teaching' arrangement while they both hide their growing feelings and attachment. YAWN. The sex scenes are frequent and yet this seems like one of the least sexy books I've read. In fact, this book unlocked several new icks for me when it comes to spicy scenarios - from gross descriptions to cringe dialogue or actions (like taking a phone call from her ex during sex & Liam threatening him then inviting him to listen in if he wants).
Lastly, I read an ARC. I hope to be able to scan the final version to see if further editing was done to finalize this for publication. I hope so. I would never rate a book based on the editing alone, but I do notice editing and grammatical mistakes that should be caught by a copy editor (ex: he's putting his hand under her shirt but 3 pages ago it described the dress she was wearing) so I find it distracting in a book. I am wondering if indie books are maybe not for me because I'm noticing this issue more and more. If the editing is being done by beta readers and the author alone, I feel like it's a disservice to the author and the readers.
First, there were many instances where the pacing felt rushed and the conversations forced to further the plot. Early on, an entire chapter is devoted to a cringe-worthy girls' night convo where the FMC's issues are laid out simply to get the ball rolling. This type of approach to advancing the plot continues throughout the book in various admissions and conversations or in near monologues that go on for pages. It's all very glaring and issues are brought up in ways that are not at all organic. The conflict in this book is frequently unclear & there are way too many tropes/inclusivity attempts jammed into this overly long story.
I also really struggled with consistency in the characters. At times, Piper is so protective of Liam's wish for privacy. At others, she is divulging really personal details about their arrangement with mutual friends and colleagues before he has even consented to doing so. The locker room talk and banter between the teammates was off in this book whereas it was a highlight in the first book in the series. Piper is very much a people pleaser to the point of fawning and it was super ick when she did that in the bedroom.
At several points, I felt like I had already read this story. Perhaps it's partly because I've read quite a few hockey romances, but there were also several echoes of Business Casual by BK Borison here. It's possible that I am connecting thm because I happened to read the two back-to-back, but it felt odd that the silver formal event dress was described so similarily and the "you're my favorite" - "I've never been anyone's favorite" scenario happens in both books. Borison does it with finesse. Unfortunately, Curto's attempt lands flat.
The romance here is not believable and there is little if any emotional intimacy because they insist on this being a purely sexual 'teaching' arrangement while they both hide their growing feelings and attachment. YAWN. The sex scenes are frequent and yet this seems like one of the least sexy books I've read. In fact, this book unlocked several new icks for me when it comes to spicy scenarios - from gross descriptions to cringe dialogue or actions (like taking a phone call from her ex during sex & Liam threatening him then inviting him to listen in if he wants).
Lastly, I read an ARC. I hope to be able to scan the final version to see if further editing was done to finalize this for publication. I hope so. I would never rate a book based on the editing alone, but I do notice editing and grammatical mistakes that should be caught by a copy editor (ex: he's putting his hand under her shirt but 3 pages ago it described the dress she was wearing) so I find it distracting in a book. I am wondering if indie books are maybe not for me because I'm noticing this issue more and more. If the editing is being done by beta readers and the author alone, I feel like it's a disservice to the author and the readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2024
I loved this book so much! 🥰
If you’re a hockey romance fan, I’m sure you will too 😍
📖 Power Play by Chelsea Curto
📚 book 2 • DC Stars series
⭐️: 5/5
🌶️: open door, several descriptive scenes (it IS about spice lessons 😉)
💭 overall thoughts:
Piper & Liam - I love their dynamic 🥹
Piper is a bubbly, sweet team reporter who goes to Liam to explore in the bedroom, after her shitty ex knocked down her confidence.
Liam is the grumpy goalie with a secret crush, who’s far too focused on hockey to “do relationships” - but we all know how that goes 🤭
The way he builds her up & cares of her - my heart couldn't take it 🥹
Power Play is book 2 in the DC stars series (following Face Off) - it can be read as a standalone, but always a little better to read in order 😉
read if you love:
🥅 grumpy pro hockey goalie
🎤 sunshine team reporter
🌶️ spicy lessons
💍 accidental Vegas marriage/fake dating
📱 texts with banter
🫶🏼 found family
💞 dual 1st person pov
✨ books with similar vibes:
♡ Play Along by Liz Tomforde (sports, accidental Vegas marriage)
♡ The Wingman by Stephanie Archer (hockey, spice lessons)
Thank you so much to Chelsea Curto for the pleasure of beta & arc reading this amazing story! All opinions are my own.
*Connect with Me*
🤍 Instagram 🤍 Blog 🤍
If you’re a hockey romance fan, I’m sure you will too 😍
📖 Power Play by Chelsea Curto
📚 book 2 • DC Stars series
⭐️: 5/5
🌶️: open door, several descriptive scenes (it IS about spice lessons 😉)
💭 overall thoughts:
Piper & Liam - I love their dynamic 🥹
Piper is a bubbly, sweet team reporter who goes to Liam to explore in the bedroom, after her shitty ex knocked down her confidence.
Liam is the grumpy goalie with a secret crush, who’s far too focused on hockey to “do relationships” - but we all know how that goes 🤭
The way he builds her up & cares of her - my heart couldn't take it 🥹
Power Play is book 2 in the DC stars series (following Face Off) - it can be read as a standalone, but always a little better to read in order 😉
read if you love:
🥅 grumpy pro hockey goalie
🎤 sunshine team reporter
🌶️ spicy lessons
💍 accidental Vegas marriage/fake dating
📱 texts with banter
🫶🏼 found family
💞 dual 1st person pov
✨ books with similar vibes:
♡ Play Along by Liz Tomforde (sports, accidental Vegas marriage)
♡ The Wingman by Stephanie Archer (hockey, spice lessons)
Thank you so much to Chelsea Curto for the pleasure of beta & arc reading this amazing story! All opinions are my own.
*Connect with Me*
🤍 Instagram 🤍 Blog 🤍
October 29, 2024
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🔥🔥🔥
Holy goodness, I just love Chelsea’s books. This book was fabulous, and also an ode to women who have carved out their place in male dominated industries. I love hockey romance and this one hit so hard. Every second of it made me giggle and kick my feet.
Liam and Piper are everything!
🩷 Hockey Romance
🩷 Accidental Marriage
🩷 Spicy Bedroom Lessons
🩷 Grumpy x Sunshine
🩷 Cat Dad
🩷 Goalie x Team Reporter
Okay so I loved Liam so much. But Piper… I would burn the world down for that woman. She made me feel so seen and I adored every bit of her. She was kind and vulnerable and her struggles were so well portrayed. Also, props to you girl for having the lady balls to ask the grumpy goalie to be your spicy teacher.
I love books where “he teaches her” and this one was the most delicious tease. The way their lessons progressed was hot as heck and had me sweating.
I also really loved the friendships in this book. Chelsea does found family so well, and the team dinners and the girl gang and the way these people had each other’s back through everything. It just made me credibly happy.
If I lost everything I love about this book, this is going to become a full fledged essay, so just know this is fantastic and you should read it!
SPICE: 🔥🔥🔥
Holy goodness, I just love Chelsea’s books. This book was fabulous, and also an ode to women who have carved out their place in male dominated industries. I love hockey romance and this one hit so hard. Every second of it made me giggle and kick my feet.
Liam and Piper are everything!
🩷 Hockey Romance
🩷 Accidental Marriage
🩷 Spicy Bedroom Lessons
🩷 Grumpy x Sunshine
🩷 Cat Dad
🩷 Goalie x Team Reporter
Okay so I loved Liam so much. But Piper… I would burn the world down for that woman. She made me feel so seen and I adored every bit of her. She was kind and vulnerable and her struggles were so well portrayed. Also, props to you girl for having the lady balls to ask the grumpy goalie to be your spicy teacher.
I love books where “he teaches her” and this one was the most delicious tease. The way their lessons progressed was hot as heck and had me sweating.
I also really loved the friendships in this book. Chelsea does found family so well, and the team dinners and the girl gang and the way these people had each other’s back through everything. It just made me credibly happy.
If I lost everything I love about this book, this is going to become a full fledged essay, so just know this is fantastic and you should read it!
November 3, 2024
Actual rating 4.5 ⭐️
Absolutely loved this one!!! It wasn't as incredible as Face Off, but it was amazing!!! I adore Piper and Liam!!!
Can't wait for Hudson's book and all the rest in this series!!!
Absolutely loved this one!!! It wasn't as incredible as Face Off, but it was amazing!!! I adore Piper and Liam!!!
Can't wait for Hudson's book and all the rest in this series!!!
November 3, 2024
4⭐️
“i think . . . i think i’ve been waiting for you my whole life, piper mitchell.”
“i think i’ve been waiting my whole life for you too, liam sullivan.”
bye gonna go melt into a puddle. this book was absolutely EVERYTHING 🥲🩷🥹🩷
“i think . . . i think i’ve been waiting for you my whole life, piper mitchell.”
“i think i’ve been waiting my whole life for you too, liam sullivan.”
bye gonna go melt into a puddle. this book was absolutely EVERYTHING 🥲🩷🥹🩷
December 3, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ THIS WAS SO GOOD!! unpopular opinion but i definitely enjoyed this book more than face off. i absolutely loved how liam made piper feel so valued, the words of affirmation were so beautiful 🥹 i usually don’t typically enjoy the friends with benefits trope, but i loved watching liam help piper feel more confident in herself & her sexuality. i loved watching them become friends, gradually get closer to each other & watch them fall in love!!
December 9, 2024
probabky harsh but i had to force myself to read it
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