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The Hartigans #3
Tomboy
How exactly has one good deed landed me in the penalty box?
Ice Knights defenseman Zach Blackburn has come down with the flu, and my BFF—his PR manager—begs me to put my nursing degree to use and get him back to health. Of course she would call in a favor for the most hated man in Harbor City.
But when he’s finally on the mend and I’m sneaking out of his place, everything goes sideways. Paparazzi spot me and pictures, plus accusations that I slept with him, fly faster than a hockey puck.
At first, all of Harbor City wants my blood—or to give me a girlie-girl makeover. But then…the team finally wins a game. And now this fickle town wants me with the big jerk twenty-four seven.
Argh. I never slept with him the first time! But no one will listen. Then the grumpy bastard goes and promises to break his no-fan-appearances rule to help raise money for a free health clinic—but only if I’m rink-side at every game. That’s not a deal I can turn down.
But when the team keeps winning, and I realize there’s more to him than his bad reputation, suddenly remembering to keep my real hands off my fake date gets harder and harder to do.
Ice Knights defenseman Zach Blackburn has come down with the flu, and my BFF—his PR manager—begs me to put my nursing degree to use and get him back to health. Of course she would call in a favor for the most hated man in Harbor City.
But when he’s finally on the mend and I’m sneaking out of his place, everything goes sideways. Paparazzi spot me and pictures, plus accusations that I slept with him, fly faster than a hockey puck.
At first, all of Harbor City wants my blood—or to give me a girlie-girl makeover. But then…the team finally wins a game. And now this fickle town wants me with the big jerk twenty-four seven.
Argh. I never slept with him the first time! But no one will listen. Then the grumpy bastard goes and promises to break his no-fan-appearances rule to help raise money for a free health clinic—but only if I’m rink-side at every game. That’s not a deal I can turn down.
But when the team keeps winning, and I realize there’s more to him than his bad reputation, suddenly remembering to keep my real hands off my fake date gets harder and harder to do.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 28, 2019
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February 14, 2019
Tomboy is book three in The Hartigans series by Avery Flynn. While I really enjoyed the first two books in this series, I now have a favorite. I loved this book. If you are wondering, yes, you can read this as a stand alone. Each book in the series is based on one of the siblings in this crazy, loveable, Hartigan family. The characters do recur in each book, though. So you wouldn’t have the emotional connection to the other characters if you haven’t read the previous books!
Fallon Hartigan is an ER nurse but her heart is really at the clinic where she volunteers her time. Time off is a valuable thing and Fallon is not thrilled when her friend, Lucy, calls in a favor and wants her to spend her free weekend caring for a very sick defenseman for the Ice Knights Hockey Team.
Zach Blackburn is currently the most hated man in the Harbor City area. He just can’t seem to get his game back on track and because of him, the team is losing. Zach is known for his surly attitude and his way of keeping everyone at a distance. He is currently feeling like he’s about to die but the last thing he wants is some do-gooder nurse in his house. But he doesn’t seem to have a choice and she pushes herself right into his personal space and into his life.
After the weekend that Fallon cared for Zach, something amazing happened, he played the best he’s played in a long time. It had to be Fallon. She must be his Lady Luck. Now all he has to do is find a way to convince her to come to his games so he can keep playing well.
“There was something about Zach, hidden under all those layers of attitude and defensiveness, she recognized some place deep in herself.”
After working out a trade, Fallon attending games and Zach volunteering for the clinic, they begin to get to know each other. There is chemistry through the roof. Fallon also realizes that this tough guy really has a soft underside. Maybe if Fallon gives in to this thing between them just for one night, she can get him out of her system?
“They were on the edge of something here, and she wasn’t sure if she was ready.”
Zach has a secret he has kept hidden from everyone. Something that he is embarrassed about. He only told those that had to know. As he and Fallon grow closer, though, he begins to trust her. Can he share his secret with her or would she judge him, think less of him?
“Being with Zach just felt right, they felt right together.”
I loved this book. Zach was the best growly, moody hero that had a huge heart he kept hidden. I loved the way he was with Fallon as he slowly softened towards her. Fallon has a huge heart and wants to fix everyone. Her feelings for Zach are growing so fast but she can’t stand seeing him hurting.
These two were so amazing together. I am so in love with this family. This book really surprised me. I feel like it’s so different than the first two. I got all the butterflies and swoons I could handle with Zach. I am so excited about the announcement of a new series Avery is starting, Ice Nights. And the first book is going to be called Parental Guidance and will feature Caleb Stuckey, Zach’s friend and team mate. I can’t wait!
For more about this book and so many more, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/44036...
Fallon Hartigan is an ER nurse but her heart is really at the clinic where she volunteers her time. Time off is a valuable thing and Fallon is not thrilled when her friend, Lucy, calls in a favor and wants her to spend her free weekend caring for a very sick defenseman for the Ice Knights Hockey Team.
Zach Blackburn is currently the most hated man in the Harbor City area. He just can’t seem to get his game back on track and because of him, the team is losing. Zach is known for his surly attitude and his way of keeping everyone at a distance. He is currently feeling like he’s about to die but the last thing he wants is some do-gooder nurse in his house. But he doesn’t seem to have a choice and she pushes herself right into his personal space and into his life.
After the weekend that Fallon cared for Zach, something amazing happened, he played the best he’s played in a long time. It had to be Fallon. She must be his Lady Luck. Now all he has to do is find a way to convince her to come to his games so he can keep playing well.
“There was something about Zach, hidden under all those layers of attitude and defensiveness, she recognized some place deep in herself.”
After working out a trade, Fallon attending games and Zach volunteering for the clinic, they begin to get to know each other. There is chemistry through the roof. Fallon also realizes that this tough guy really has a soft underside. Maybe if Fallon gives in to this thing between them just for one night, she can get him out of her system?
“They were on the edge of something here, and she wasn’t sure if she was ready.”
Zach has a secret he has kept hidden from everyone. Something that he is embarrassed about. He only told those that had to know. As he and Fallon grow closer, though, he begins to trust her. Can he share his secret with her or would she judge him, think less of him?
“Being with Zach just felt right, they felt right together.”
I loved this book. Zach was the best growly, moody hero that had a huge heart he kept hidden. I loved the way he was with Fallon as he slowly softened towards her. Fallon has a huge heart and wants to fix everyone. Her feelings for Zach are growing so fast but she can’t stand seeing him hurting.
These two were so amazing together. I am so in love with this family. This book really surprised me. I feel like it’s so different than the first two. I got all the butterflies and swoons I could handle with Zach. I am so excited about the announcement of a new series Avery is starting, Ice Nights. And the first book is going to be called Parental Guidance and will feature Caleb Stuckey, Zach’s friend and team mate. I can’t wait!
For more about this book and so many more, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/44036...
June 6, 2019
Currently on sale for 99c!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
This book has me fangirling over Avery Flynn so hard. I was already a fan of this series but now I'm straight up obsessed. I loved Fallon and Zach's connection and they made an adorably growly couple. They both had their walls up and could be a little stand-offish when it came to other people. Zach with his quiet fuck-off vibes that he gave to everyone and Fallon with her gives-not-one-shit attitude when it came to what other people wanted. They were irrevocably their own persons and didn't let anyone control them. Which I loved! Especially when we got to see the sweeter sides to them, the sides that did actually care.
Together they brought out feelings that neither of them were used to and that they weren't used to having to navigate around. Which was yet another brilliantly written things in this story. What I'm trying to say in all of this jumbled mess of a review, is that the characters were kick ass and I adored them. Oh and I may have to kick your ass if you think you can just skip by this book and not read it.
Just a little side note: Near the end of the book I was hoping beyond all hope that we would get to see more of Zach's team, the Ice Knights, and then I saw that they were getting their own series and I was pretty much bouncing in my seat with happiness. So now I'm going to be stalking this author until I can get more.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
This book has me fangirling over Avery Flynn so hard. I was already a fan of this series but now I'm straight up obsessed. I loved Fallon and Zach's connection and they made an adorably growly couple. They both had their walls up and could be a little stand-offish when it came to other people. Zach with his quiet fuck-off vibes that he gave to everyone and Fallon with her gives-not-one-shit attitude when it came to what other people wanted. They were irrevocably their own persons and didn't let anyone control them. Which I loved! Especially when we got to see the sweeter sides to them, the sides that did actually care.
Together they brought out feelings that neither of them were used to and that they weren't used to having to navigate around. Which was yet another brilliantly written things in this story. What I'm trying to say in all of this jumbled mess of a review, is that the characters were kick ass and I adored them. Oh and I may have to kick your ass if you think you can just skip by this book and not read it.
Just a little side note: Near the end of the book I was hoping beyond all hope that we would get to see more of Zach's team, the Ice Knights, and then I saw that they were getting their own series and I was pretty much bouncing in my seat with happiness. So now I'm going to be stalking this author until I can get more.
February 18, 2019
What a great story. Even got a few tears outta me!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This is the second book that I have read and reviewed by Avery Flynn and I realized that I love reading stories when the characters are so like you and me. They’re not beautiful people. They’re vulnerable but yet have that fiery soul that you just tend to gravitate to.
Usually when I read a book I like one character more than another. And, if I’m honest, I’ll say it’s usually the guy and it is.
But in this story I really enjoyed both of them equally. They were good together. Fallon had that fiery soul running throughout the course of the book. And Zach was just so smoldering hot and sexy ... yummmm! A bit angry and intense, for a damn good reason, but she balanced him beautifully.
Avery brought us another winner in the Hartigan series. While this story builds around a family, it can be read as a stand-alone too. If you have not read one of her stories, you are seriously missing out.
* copy received for review consideration
full review - https://amidlifewife.com/tomboy-by-av...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This is the second book that I have read and reviewed by Avery Flynn and I realized that I love reading stories when the characters are so like you and me. They’re not beautiful people. They’re vulnerable but yet have that fiery soul that you just tend to gravitate to.
Usually when I read a book I like one character more than another. And, if I’m honest, I’ll say it’s usually the guy and it is.
But in this story I really enjoyed both of them equally. They were good together. Fallon had that fiery soul running throughout the course of the book. And Zach was just so smoldering hot and sexy ... yummmm! A bit angry and intense, for a damn good reason, but she balanced him beautifully.
Avery brought us another winner in the Hartigan series. While this story builds around a family, it can be read as a stand-alone too. If you have not read one of her stories, you are seriously missing out.
* copy received for review consideration
full review - https://amidlifewife.com/tomboy-by-av...
June 7, 2019
Ok listening on hot day. The chemistry is cute. Especially Fallon. I can relate to Fallon tomboy trait. I was just like her when i growing up. Wearing pants,super short hair, dorky and refuse to wear skirt of any kinds.
Listening to this book is reminisence to my teenager year. I wish the drama can be more dramatize. But overal this is a cute sweet story.
3 stars
Listening to this book is reminisence to my teenager year. I wish the drama can be more dramatize. But overal this is a cute sweet story.
3 stars
February 20, 2019
Avery Flynn hooked me with the first book in The Hartigans series, Butterface, and I was desperate for more. With Muffin Top, book two, my addition grew stronger. This third book, Tomboy, is easily my favourite in the series. In fact, it’s a strong four-point-five-star rating, nearly a five-star read. I’m unsure how the future books will live up to this one, but I’m desperate to see.
From the small introduction we were given in Muffin Top, I knew I would be hooked by Tomboy. Both main characters intrigued me, and I was excited to see how their story would develop. From the very first page, this one sucked me into their tale. I was hooked, unable to put the book down, and each new chapter sucked me in deeper.
There was so much to enjoy with this one. From the banter between the characters to the drama they faced. From how easy it was to relate to the characters to the way they developed. From the moments of humour to the more serious elements. There was plenty to be found with this one, with so much more being provided than I’d initially thought.
Plus, yet again, Avery Flynn managed to create a female lead I was able to relate to. I’ve found myself relating to all the female leads in The Hartigans series, and it was no different with this one. It was so well done, without being over the top, and I loved it.
I also adored all the new characters we were introduced to. A part of me is disappointed as there will be a wee break in The Hartigans series as we get our hockey players spin-offs, but I loved them so much the disappointment is almost non-existent. I may want more of The Hartigans series, but I’m super eager to see where the spin-off series goes. I’m eager to dive into whatever comes next.
Without a doubt, Tomboy was another winner in Avery Flynn’s The Hartigans series, easily my favourite, and I cannot wait for more.
From the small introduction we were given in Muffin Top, I knew I would be hooked by Tomboy. Both main characters intrigued me, and I was excited to see how their story would develop. From the very first page, this one sucked me into their tale. I was hooked, unable to put the book down, and each new chapter sucked me in deeper.
There was so much to enjoy with this one. From the banter between the characters to the drama they faced. From how easy it was to relate to the characters to the way they developed. From the moments of humour to the more serious elements. There was plenty to be found with this one, with so much more being provided than I’d initially thought.
Plus, yet again, Avery Flynn managed to create a female lead I was able to relate to. I’ve found myself relating to all the female leads in The Hartigans series, and it was no different with this one. It was so well done, without being over the top, and I loved it.
I also adored all the new characters we were introduced to. A part of me is disappointed as there will be a wee break in The Hartigans series as we get our hockey players spin-offs, but I loved them so much the disappointment is almost non-existent. I may want more of The Hartigans series, but I’m super eager to see where the spin-off series goes. I’m eager to dive into whatever comes next.
Without a doubt, Tomboy was another winner in Avery Flynn’s The Hartigans series, easily my favourite, and I cannot wait for more.
June 5, 2019
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 Stars
Tomboy is the third book in the Hartigan series but can be read as a standalone romance. I had already read and enjoyed Butterface, the first book of the series, but Tomboy totally captured my squishy romantic heart and Fallon is totally my kind of girl.
No good deed goes unpunished, at least that’s what it seems like for Fallon Hartigan. As a favor to her bestie, Fallon is talked into making sure Zach Blackburn, currently the most hated man in the city, makes it to the other side of ‘the flu’ or a case of food poisoning.
Zach is just like all the other tough guys Fallon has known in her nursing career, when he is feeling vulnerable all the douche comments come out in self-defense. When Zach catches on that there is no way to get Fallon out of his house, he gives in a little and lets her take care of him in his time of woe. Just so happens that a reporter also sees Fallon at Zach’s place and that is when the rumors start to fly, especially since Zach finally plays better, like he used to and it seems like the slump might just be over.
Now everyone in the city is #teamzuck (Zach + Lady Luck) and he needs to find a way to convince Fallon to be at the games. Good thing she has a cause she is championing and he should be able to make the biggest deal of his life to keep her coming to games.
Fallon is a no frills, no nonsense kind of woman and isn’t anything close to the puck bunnies Zach has been seen with. But it might be worth putting up with all the social media comments on her looks and Tomboy ways if she can get Zach and some hockey team mates to the clinic to fund raise money. That’s all it is, she doesn’t like spending time with him at all, yeah you keep telling yourself that girl.
This was totes adorbs. I really loved Fallon and how she was ready to take care of everyone but never really thought anyone should have to take care of her too. I really got her character and she was so comfortable with who she was that it was fantastic. She is a bit tomboy, always in jeans, t-shirts and sneakers with no makeup. She owns who she is and how she looks and I love that about her. Zach grows on you a bit too. He has some serious trust issues and even knows when he is being a jerk but there is just something about Fallon and her honesty that finally breaks through the barriers he has constructed. They are fantastic together.
Completely cute read and now I need to go back and read Muffintop and Avery Flynn’s other series set in Harbor City too.
Narration:
Having the dual narrators for Fallon and Zach’s PoV was perfect. Savannah Peachwood and Brian Pallino complimented each other’s narration style well and performed each character in a way that made them completely relatable. I listened to this at my normal 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip:
https://soundcloud.com/brilliance-aud...
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 Stars
Tomboy is the third book in the Hartigan series but can be read as a standalone romance. I had already read and enjoyed Butterface, the first book of the series, but Tomboy totally captured my squishy romantic heart and Fallon is totally my kind of girl.
No good deed goes unpunished, at least that’s what it seems like for Fallon Hartigan. As a favor to her bestie, Fallon is talked into making sure Zach Blackburn, currently the most hated man in the city, makes it to the other side of ‘the flu’ or a case of food poisoning.
Zach is just like all the other tough guys Fallon has known in her nursing career, when he is feeling vulnerable all the douche comments come out in self-defense. When Zach catches on that there is no way to get Fallon out of his house, he gives in a little and lets her take care of him in his time of woe. Just so happens that a reporter also sees Fallon at Zach’s place and that is when the rumors start to fly, especially since Zach finally plays better, like he used to and it seems like the slump might just be over.
Now everyone in the city is #teamzuck (Zach + Lady Luck) and he needs to find a way to convince Fallon to be at the games. Good thing she has a cause she is championing and he should be able to make the biggest deal of his life to keep her coming to games.
Fallon is a no frills, no nonsense kind of woman and isn’t anything close to the puck bunnies Zach has been seen with. But it might be worth putting up with all the social media comments on her looks and Tomboy ways if she can get Zach and some hockey team mates to the clinic to fund raise money. That’s all it is, she doesn’t like spending time with him at all, yeah you keep telling yourself that girl.
This was totes adorbs. I really loved Fallon and how she was ready to take care of everyone but never really thought anyone should have to take care of her too. I really got her character and she was so comfortable with who she was that it was fantastic. She is a bit tomboy, always in jeans, t-shirts and sneakers with no makeup. She owns who she is and how she looks and I love that about her. Zach grows on you a bit too. He has some serious trust issues and even knows when he is being a jerk but there is just something about Fallon and her honesty that finally breaks through the barriers he has constructed. They are fantastic together.
Completely cute read and now I need to go back and read Muffintop and Avery Flynn’s other series set in Harbor City too.
Narration:
Having the dual narrators for Fallon and Zach’s PoV was perfect. Savannah Peachwood and Brian Pallino complimented each other’s narration style well and performed each character in a way that made them completely relatable. I listened to this at my normal 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip:
https://soundcloud.com/brilliance-aud...
February 18, 2019
** ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review. **
I’ve been hooked with The Hartigan’s series from book one, heartfelt, funny and with interesting characters. How about the story of the most hated man in Harbor City finding his match?
I have to say the hero was the perfect cliché of the famous jock, connoisseur of women (with very not really thinking with his brain, you know what I mean), with a reputation that preceded him, the bad boy who couldn’t be tamed on the rink, failing on his team for so long that he lost count.
I liked this challenge, reading about that guy who was definitely more than meet the eye.
A woman was going to ruin him for the others and wrecking all the walls and challenging like no one else. Someone so far from the women he used to be, with no filter and giving no damn about his attitude. Straight to the guts.
Once they met, he started to play better and one things leading to another, and with some meddling from the media, privacy was out of option.
I adored their chemistry and how you could definitely relate to the characters, about their insecurities and having that feeling close to home. The heroine was such a tomboy, so natural but mostly judged by her looks, but staying brave and strong no matter what, with her over the top family, and over protective brothers. Their banter was priceless and I appreciated to see his vulnerable side, beneath the surface. They made me laugh so hard, the foreplay on point, so hot together without really trying.
It was once again a tremendous installment in this series, that made me smile so hard, with colorful characters and amazing banter and chemistry. I’ll definitely keep going to read more from this universe, the author keeping some great surprises along the way for sure!
August 9, 2019
This review was originally posted on my review blog Deanna Reads Books
I read Parental Guidance by Avery Flynn before this one, but the couple in this book are mentioned in the other one so I was definitely interested in how Zach and Fallon's story panned out. This book is actually book three in Flynn's Hartigans series, but you can totally follow along here if you haven't read the other two. I haven't, and I didn't feel lost at all. It's kind of what I love about romance series.
I love a really stoic hero, especially one who is just so moody. I also loved that Fallon kind of hates everyone, because I kind of hate everyone so I could so relate. Zach is such a jerkface in this one, but so is Fallon, so it's kind of why they are perfect for each other. They also have so much sexual tension, so yeah this one is definitely steamy! So definitely be pre-warned going into this one.
I kind of loved the concept that he was playing like hot garbage and then she goes to a game and he plays better. Hockey players are a superstitious bunch so I kind of can get behind a plot like this. I also like how they basically strike up a deal to help each other out because of the whole weird situation.
There is a lot more going on with Zach and he's super closed off for a reason. It was hard for him to be close to people and is so stubborn about it, but I was kind of bothered that Fallon just let his secrets out to the public. That wasn't really her secret to tell, so I totally got why he gets so mad. I was so frustrated with the break-up thing that happens. These two were just both so stubborn, so that was a little frustrating to read about. I was glad that this is a HEA, so it gets better, I just found myself annoyed with it.
I'm not sure yet if I'm going to read the other books in this series, but I am definitely interested in this Ice Knights series she is starting.
I read Parental Guidance by Avery Flynn before this one, but the couple in this book are mentioned in the other one so I was definitely interested in how Zach and Fallon's story panned out. This book is actually book three in Flynn's Hartigans series, but you can totally follow along here if you haven't read the other two. I haven't, and I didn't feel lost at all. It's kind of what I love about romance series.
I love a really stoic hero, especially one who is just so moody. I also loved that Fallon kind of hates everyone, because I kind of hate everyone so I could so relate. Zach is such a jerkface in this one, but so is Fallon, so it's kind of why they are perfect for each other. They also have so much sexual tension, so yeah this one is definitely steamy! So definitely be pre-warned going into this one.
I kind of loved the concept that he was playing like hot garbage and then she goes to a game and he plays better. Hockey players are a superstitious bunch so I kind of can get behind a plot like this. I also like how they basically strike up a deal to help each other out because of the whole weird situation.
There is a lot more going on with Zach and he's super closed off for a reason. It was hard for him to be close to people and is so stubborn about it, but I was kind of bothered that Fallon just let his secrets out to the public. That wasn't really her secret to tell, so I totally got why he gets so mad. I was so frustrated with the break-up thing that happens. These two were just both so stubborn, so that was a little frustrating to read about. I was glad that this is a HEA, so it gets better, I just found myself annoyed with it.
I'm not sure yet if I'm going to read the other books in this series, but I am definitely interested in this Ice Knights series she is starting.
March 21, 2020
Overall this was a easy and entertaining sports romance, one I can see myself picking up again at some point. This can easily and very comfortably be read as a standalone even if it is book 3 in a series.
I do wish Zach had been less hard on himself when it came to his parents, and I wish there had been a scene
99p on amazon 16th March 2020.
I do wish Zach had been less hard on himself when it came to his parents, and I wish there had been a scene
99p on amazon 16th March 2020.
February 23, 2019
Liked it!👍
Review on Monday...
Review on Monday...
February 17, 2020
After reading 3 solid books from this author, I’m officially a fan.
Here are some of my thoughts:
• I think it is somewhat rare to see 2 characters who are for the most part really similar as love interests. I think I am used to reading a lot of opposites attract book (which frankly I enjoy) or just books where the characters are different. However, Zach and Fallon really work together in their mutual prickliness. I love that they are both blunt and bold while also secretly softies.
• I truly love how straight-forward Fallon is and there is just no BS-ing with. Also, from the 3 books I’ve read so far, I love that this author keeps the conflict/climax to a minimal, meaning the conflict at the end is always short and resolved neatly, instead of dragging it out.
• Of the books I’ve read so far, I feel like this book has taken the longest to get it together. The “setting up” before the deal the character makes has taken too long in my opinion. I probably did not get REALLY in this book until midway, although I liked the intro of when they first started interacting with one another.x
• Still, this book is very enjoyable and in general, all the books I’ve read from Flynn are so easy to read and entertaining. I think she does a good job at captivating readers’ attention with a mixture of lightness and depth, humorous and emotional scenes.
• I love seeing the Ice Knights support Zach through and through despite him being an asshole for most of the times. It is rather touching to see him realize that he can trust people afterall. (Also, I’m reading the series out of order so I love seeing Caleb here, and seeing how his friendship with Zach has formed.) There is a great sense of camaraderie in the Ice Knights group.
• And again, I love seeing the Hartigans family.
Overall, this has been an enjoyable read that has both lightness and substance. 3.5 stars
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level? Other things to note?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorite scenes?
Here are some of my thoughts:
• I think it is somewhat rare to see 2 characters who are for the most part really similar as love interests. I think I am used to reading a lot of opposites attract book (which frankly I enjoy) or just books where the characters are different. However, Zach and Fallon really work together in their mutual prickliness. I love that they are both blunt and bold while also secretly softies.
• I truly love how straight-forward Fallon is and there is just no BS-ing with. Also, from the 3 books I’ve read so far, I love that this author keeps the conflict/climax to a minimal, meaning the conflict at the end is always short and resolved neatly, instead of dragging it out.
• Of the books I’ve read so far, I feel like this book has taken the longest to get it together. The “setting up” before the deal the character makes has taken too long in my opinion. I probably did not get REALLY in this book until midway, although I liked the intro of when they first started interacting with one another.x
• Still, this book is very enjoyable and in general, all the books I’ve read from Flynn are so easy to read and entertaining. I think she does a good job at captivating readers’ attention with a mixture of lightness and depth, humorous and emotional scenes.
• I love seeing the Ice Knights support Zach through and through despite him being an asshole for most of the times. It is rather touching to see him realize that he can trust people afterall. (Also, I’m reading the series out of order so I love seeing Caleb here, and seeing how his friendship with Zach has formed.) There is a great sense of camaraderie in the Ice Knights group.
• And again, I love seeing the Hartigans family.
Overall, this has been an enjoyable read that has both lightness and substance. 3.5 stars
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level? Other things to note?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorite scenes?
February 5, 2019
I just popped my Avery Flynn cherry and let me just tell you how enrapturing the experience was. This book was amazingly beautiful with fierce characters. I did not want to put it down. I fell in love with these two characters.
Fallon is a tomboy in every sense of the word. She is strong, independent and takes no BS from anybody. She says it like it is and doesn’t give a damn whether the person like her or not but her family is her weakness. She would do just about anything for them. That is where Zach comes in. He is the most hated guy in Harbor city because of his surly attitude and the fact that they are not winning any games. He is a loner in this new town and he prefers it that way. Less of a chance of people using him. Although he has reach a point where he is desperate and needs help. He is sick and the person that is sent to take care of him is nurse Fallon. She is only doing this because her friend, Lucy, asked her to. Fallon is a hockey fanatic and cannot stand Zach. She finds him rude and selfish but her caring personality comes out to play. She cannot turn down a sick person but agreeing to take care of Zach leads them down a rabbit hole but turn out to be quite fruitful.
I loved that Fallon did not change her personality or her appearance in any way. She stayed true to herself right until the very end. She knew who she was and went after what she wanted. She was a take control woman and Zach was more that happy to allow her to be who she is. They both were extremely stubborn but so cute and insanely hot together.
This book was short and sweet with no extra drama. It was a perfect, fun and steamy read.
Fallon is a tomboy in every sense of the word. She is strong, independent and takes no BS from anybody. She says it like it is and doesn’t give a damn whether the person like her or not but her family is her weakness. She would do just about anything for them. That is where Zach comes in. He is the most hated guy in Harbor city because of his surly attitude and the fact that they are not winning any games. He is a loner in this new town and he prefers it that way. Less of a chance of people using him. Although he has reach a point where he is desperate and needs help. He is sick and the person that is sent to take care of him is nurse Fallon. She is only doing this because her friend, Lucy, asked her to. Fallon is a hockey fanatic and cannot stand Zach. She finds him rude and selfish but her caring personality comes out to play. She cannot turn down a sick person but agreeing to take care of Zach leads them down a rabbit hole but turn out to be quite fruitful.
I loved that Fallon did not change her personality or her appearance in any way. She stayed true to herself right until the very end. She knew who she was and went after what she wanted. She was a take control woman and Zach was more that happy to allow her to be who she is. They both were extremely stubborn but so cute and insanely hot together.
This book was short and sweet with no extra drama. It was a perfect, fun and steamy read.
February 17, 2019
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book*
4.5 “Lady Luck” Stars
I want to start off by saying that I love the Hartigan’s!!!! This fictional family is one of my favorites. So far, the two previous books in this series, I’ve adored. This next installment is no different. Now we get Fallon’s story, another Hartigan sibling. And I must say I really enjoyed everything about this book.
Fallon is a nurse and she gets sucked into taking care of a sick Zach Blackburn, one the Ice Knights hockey players. She doesn’t want to, but she’s doing her friend Lucy a favor. She can’t stand Zach and his grouchiness. She tolerates him as best she can. And though she wants nothing more than to let Zach fend for himself, the caring part of her won’t let her.
Zach Blackburn is the most disliked man in Harbor City. He’s arrogant, untrusting, and miserable. He does his best to push people away and doesn’t want to be around anyone. But there’s a reason why he’s so closed off and doesn’t trust easily. And since he started playing for the Ice Knights, his playing has taken a hit. He’s not playing to the caliber that he can. But after the night Fallon took care of him, the next game he plays, he plays better than any other previous games before. And thus the media and fans started dubbing Fallon, Zach’s “lady luck.”
Fallon and Zach had me smiling so big. I couldn’t get enough of their bickering. They were insanely cute and hot together. They definitely complimented the other to a T. I couldn’t get enough and just wanted more of these two.
Tomboy was a fun, sweet, steamy and enjoyable read. I’m happy that the series isn’t over just yet, and we’re getting more of the Hartigan’s. And I’m extra happy we’re getting books for some of the Ice Knights players. Ahhhh, I can’t wait!
4.5 “Lady Luck” Stars
I want to start off by saying that I love the Hartigan’s!!!! This fictional family is one of my favorites. So far, the two previous books in this series, I’ve adored. This next installment is no different. Now we get Fallon’s story, another Hartigan sibling. And I must say I really enjoyed everything about this book.
Fallon is a nurse and she gets sucked into taking care of a sick Zach Blackburn, one the Ice Knights hockey players. She doesn’t want to, but she’s doing her friend Lucy a favor. She can’t stand Zach and his grouchiness. She tolerates him as best she can. And though she wants nothing more than to let Zach fend for himself, the caring part of her won’t let her.
Zach Blackburn is the most disliked man in Harbor City. He’s arrogant, untrusting, and miserable. He does his best to push people away and doesn’t want to be around anyone. But there’s a reason why he’s so closed off and doesn’t trust easily. And since he started playing for the Ice Knights, his playing has taken a hit. He’s not playing to the caliber that he can. But after the night Fallon took care of him, the next game he plays, he plays better than any other previous games before. And thus the media and fans started dubbing Fallon, Zach’s “lady luck.”
Fallon and Zach had me smiling so big. I couldn’t get enough of their bickering. They were insanely cute and hot together. They definitely complimented the other to a T. I couldn’t get enough and just wanted more of these two.
Tomboy was a fun, sweet, steamy and enjoyable read. I’m happy that the series isn’t over just yet, and we’re getting more of the Hartigan’s. And I’m extra happy we’re getting books for some of the Ice Knights players. Ahhhh, I can’t wait!
February 18, 2019
It gets harder and harder to write a review about a book written by Avery Flynn. There isn't much more that I could say about her wonderful romantic comedies. And, Tomboy is definitely that – a comedy of errors … until the truth comes out. Then feelings are hurt, hearts are broken and true love takes a front seat beside the camaraderie of some wonderful teammates.
Zach is one SOB. A loner by choice, needs no one but his PR Manager and Agent. He doesn't care that the people of Harbor City don't like him. He knows why he is playing that he's never played hockey before and it's none of their business. But, when his Lucy sends over the delectable Fallon Hartigan, he has no choice but to let her see his despicable side to get her to leave. Of course, she's a Hartigan, it doesn't work and he finds himself opening up to her, making deals with her, falling in love with her. Very few people know the truth and now she is one of them. Here's hoping that the trust he gave her doesn't come back to bite him in the ass.
When Fallon gets that call from Lucy, she knows that she can't turn her down. God knows that the last thing she wants to do is nurse the most hated man in Harbor City. But, that's what she does. When she figures out what is really ailing him, she honestly thinks he deserves it. But then the tables get turned and the joke is on her. She is now Harbor City's sweetheart and Zach's Lady Luck. How does she keep it platonic with the hottest, sexiest man she has ever known? And, what would he see in plain, tomboy Fallon Hartigan? She's seen what he likes, what he beds and it damn sure ain't anyone like her. No way will she become some beauty queen just so the Ice Knights keep winning. But, she will agree to be ringside for every home game as long as he keeps his end of the deal. Let the cards fall where they fall. Unfortunately, they fall on the side of love.
The Hartigans are the best family ever. They can make the most awkward situations into a fun family night. Zach was pleasantly surprised and mortified at the same time. He couldn't understand how family could trust, enjoy and love each other … just because.
Avery Flynn did it again with Tomboy. It was an unbelievable story that had a little bit of everything from laugh-out-loud moments to sweet and honest ones … from cold and uncomfortable to oh-so-hot and sexy … from feelings of inadequacy and distrust to pure, unadulterated love. Name an emotion and Avery Flynn found a way to bring it out in this story. It is always a pleasure reading an Avery Flynn book … you know that you are going to be reading an interesting, entertaining, arousing story with charters that will steal your heart. And, Tomboy was no different … it was a light-hearted, sexy RomCom featuring a fantastic woman and a hot hockey player. Oh, and by the way, did you see the cover? LOVE. IT.
February 20, 2019
This series continues to be well written romantic comedy that addresses the insecurities of the female leads. In this case, that tends to take a back seat because Fallon Hartigan is both too busy to care what other people think and too focused on her own goals to care. Even when she's put under the glare of media attention surrounding the male lead character, bad boy professional ice hockey player Zach Blackburn, it's all pretty much water off a duck's back. Until, of course, it isn't.
Fallon is actually so put-together and self-reliant, it's a little difficult to create drama in the plot and the two character's struggles to resist their developing relationship don't make a lot of sense because of this. But the author does a good job in the end in creating a conflict in Fallon's only real weak spot. That's .
Not quite as good as book two, but the series continues to entertain, and I will be particularly interested in how the author approaches Tess's book (overly literal, socially shy, nerdy and maybe on the autism spectrum somewhere).
Fallon is actually so put-together and self-reliant, it's a little difficult to create drama in the plot and the two character's struggles to resist their developing relationship don't make a lot of sense because of this. But the author does a good job in the end in creating a conflict in Fallon's only real weak spot. That's .
Not quite as good as book two, but the series continues to entertain, and I will be particularly interested in how the author approaches Tess's book (overly literal, socially shy, nerdy and maybe on the autism spectrum somewhere).
January 1, 2020
I really, really, really enjoyed this! It was a fun and easy read and I totally loved the characters, including Fallon, the female MC. And that is a miracle because I usually despise female MCs. She's even made it onto my Leading Ladies shelf. Then there was the tough and gruff Zach Blackburn. He really had the "being an asshole" thing down pat. Loved these two together. It was fun and hot to watch them "date". Great series with awesome characters and I can't wait for future books about the remaining Hartigan siblings, not to mention the rest of the Ice Knight players.
February 3, 2019
Bravo Avery Flynn!! Another great book! I absolutely loved this book. Now I am having a hard time deciding which is my favorite. Darn you, you marvelous writer you. Darn you!
In this third installment of the Hartigan Series, we not only get to see more Lucy, but we get to know more about Fallon. Fallon is not a girly girl. She doesn't where makeup, fix her hair or date. Fallon is a workaholic nurse. Always taking care of everyone and fueling herself on little to no sleep. Between working at the hospital and volunteering at the clinic, Fallon barely has time for a life much less sleep. So when Lucy calls with a favor she wants to say no. Especially since it is her long weekend off. But Fallon knows something and that something has her saying yes.
Zach Blackburn is the Ice Knights newest recruit and the most hated man in Harbor City. Yep he is an asshole. But all of this asshole came from a really shitty past. He really has some deep dark secrets. Secrets that could ruin what little bit of his life he has left. All this has him on the defensive, kinda like his position on the team. Team member he is not, charity supporter, hell no, friends, none and girlfriend, what's that! Yep he's a loaner.
Zach is sick. So sick he calls the only person he trusts, Lucy his PR rep. Lucy is the only person he has bonded with since the trade. She understands him and helped him when he needed it the most. So imagine what he is thinking when he finds Fallon at his gate demanding to be let in. Dam that Lucy!
How will Zach get rid of Fallon? Beautiful, sassy Fallon. He won't! She will fulfill her promise to Lucy. But what neither of them realize is that this will change the course of both their lives.
This book was amazing. In pure Avery form it has a deeper meaning behind the romance. It is a story that most readers can relate to. Zach has trust issues and Fallon has confidence issues. Most readers, like myself don't have the confidence in ones self and struggle to fit in or feel good about how they look. This book touches on these struggles that are real. These type of subjects and stories hit close to home for some and usually make for the best books to read. I love a good book that has meaning and this book is one.
This book was beautifully written and really touched my heart. I melted when I read this book. There were tears, love and plenty of laughs to go around. I am in love with all of the characters in this series. I am having a hard time trying to decide who's story I love best.
Overall this book is a wonderful steady paced read. It has strong independent characters, who are lovable and real. The story is well thought out and written. It is never rushed and has plenty to keep the readers attention. It is a fun read, full of laughs. I loved everything about this book and you are sure to love it as well. So grab your copy today.
In this third installment of the Hartigan Series, we not only get to see more Lucy, but we get to know more about Fallon. Fallon is not a girly girl. She doesn't where makeup, fix her hair or date. Fallon is a workaholic nurse. Always taking care of everyone and fueling herself on little to no sleep. Between working at the hospital and volunteering at the clinic, Fallon barely has time for a life much less sleep. So when Lucy calls with a favor she wants to say no. Especially since it is her long weekend off. But Fallon knows something and that something has her saying yes.
Zach Blackburn is the Ice Knights newest recruit and the most hated man in Harbor City. Yep he is an asshole. But all of this asshole came from a really shitty past. He really has some deep dark secrets. Secrets that could ruin what little bit of his life he has left. All this has him on the defensive, kinda like his position on the team. Team member he is not, charity supporter, hell no, friends, none and girlfriend, what's that! Yep he's a loaner.
Zach is sick. So sick he calls the only person he trusts, Lucy his PR rep. Lucy is the only person he has bonded with since the trade. She understands him and helped him when he needed it the most. So imagine what he is thinking when he finds Fallon at his gate demanding to be let in. Dam that Lucy!
How will Zach get rid of Fallon? Beautiful, sassy Fallon. He won't! She will fulfill her promise to Lucy. But what neither of them realize is that this will change the course of both their lives.
This book was amazing. In pure Avery form it has a deeper meaning behind the romance. It is a story that most readers can relate to. Zach has trust issues and Fallon has confidence issues. Most readers, like myself don't have the confidence in ones self and struggle to fit in or feel good about how they look. This book touches on these struggles that are real. These type of subjects and stories hit close to home for some and usually make for the best books to read. I love a good book that has meaning and this book is one.
This book was beautifully written and really touched my heart. I melted when I read this book. There were tears, love and plenty of laughs to go around. I am in love with all of the characters in this series. I am having a hard time trying to decide who's story I love best.
Overall this book is a wonderful steady paced read. It has strong independent characters, who are lovable and real. The story is well thought out and written. It is never rushed and has plenty to keep the readers attention. It is a fun read, full of laughs. I loved everything about this book and you are sure to love it as well. So grab your copy today.
June 4, 2024
I've given this an A- for narration and a B for content at Audiogals, so that's around 4.5 stars
Avery Flynn’s Tomboy is an engaging romantic comedy with a few darker edges that charts the development of the romance between a no-nonsense ER nurse and a seriously grumpy hockey player. It’s predictable fare, but I enjoyed the story and the characters, and also really appreciated the author’s insight into the harmful bitchery encouraged by the anonymity of social media.
Fallon Hartigan knows she’s going to regret agreeing to help out her friend Lucy when the latter asks her for a huge favour. Lucy’s biggest client, Zach Blackwood – defenceman for the Ice Knights hockey team and a PR nightmare – is sick and Lucy is out of town with her boyfriend, Fallon’s brother (whom Fallon knows plans to propose that weekend), so she all but begs Fallon to look in on Zach and make sure he’s okay. Fresh off a long shift in the ER, all Fallon wants to do is go home and sleep, but no way is she going to ruin her brother’s plans and besides, Lucy is a good friend whom Fallon knows would do anything for her – so she agrees.
Zach has more than earned his reputation as the “Most Hated Man in Harbor City”. He can’t seem get his game back on track and because of that, the Ice Knights are on a serious losing streak; and in addition he’s bad-tempered, rude and stand-offish, has never made the attempt to befriend his team-mates and certainly never makes an effort to be nice to fans. Fallon, a die-hard hockey fan, is just as pissed off about Zach’s poor performance on the ice as everyone else in town, but on seeing how ill he really is, can’t help but go into “nurse mode” – even though she still thinks he’s an irritating, selfish jerk.
Once she’s sure Zach is on the mend, Fallon leaves his house, but not before she’s snapped by a photographer on the way to her car; and when Zach suddenly returns to form on the ice, rumours start to fly about their relationship, and Fallon is dubbed “Lady Luck” by the media. When the Ice Knights loses the next game – at which Fallon is not present – Zach is persuaded to ask her to attend the next one, and while she thinks that whole “Lady Luck” thing is a load of baloney, she agrees to go if Zach will make a personal appearance at an upcoming benefit to raise money for the neighbourhood health clinic at which she volunteers. Zach never makes personal appearances, but if it’s the only way Fallon will turn up at the games… he agrees. And to his surprise, actually finds himself enjoying the day – and the company of the tall, red-haired, unflappable, witty and passionate young woman who is rapidly getting under his skin. And Fallon finds herself warming to Zach, recognising in him something of a kindred spirit in the way he uses his automatic defensiveness and layers of attitude to conceal the hurt and insecurities he doesn’t want anyone else to see.
Both characters are well-rounded and sympathetic. Fallon comes from a large, boisterous, loving family, who all support and accept each other for what and who they are, but even so, she has self-doubts that nag at her, and those are only amplified once the media chatter starts about her and Zach. She’s seen the sorts of curvaceous, perfectly made-up puck-bunnies he’s been with before and finds it hard to believe he could genuinely be interested in a woman like her – tall, lean, small-breasted , make-up eschewing and, according to some of the social media trolls, completely unfeminine. Most of the time she has no fucks to give about what anyone thinks or says about her; she’s confident in herself and knows who she is… but it’s hard to see and hear stuff like that on a daily basis and remain unaffected.
Zach has deep seated insecurities of his own that are eating away at him and his ability to live his life. Since his former managers – who were his parents – screwed him over, he’s retreated from everyone and everything except his job. He doesn’t trust anyone and doesn’t have any friends; he doesn’t want anyone to find out what happened and doesn’t want to be seen as just another dumb jock who trusted the wrong people. That those “wrong people” were his parents, the people who should have had his back, just makes the situation – and his embarrassment over it – even worse.
The author strikes a good balance between the fun, flirty romance and the darker themes that lend depth to the story. The fictional social media posts she invents are, sadly, the sort of thing that are only too familiar in the real world, and Zach’s experiences, while not typical, are not unheard of either. The romance that develops between the big-hearted, take-no-prisoners Fallon and the grumpy-but-loveable Zach, is really well done and their chemistry just sizzles. I tend to be a hero-centric reader and listener, but I liked Fallon a whole lot; she’s spunky without being annoying, snarky without being rude and tough/vulnerable in a way that’s incredibly easy to relate to.
Savannah Peachwood and Brian Pallino are both new-to-me narrators, although they’ve recorded extensively in the romance genre. As a team, they worked really well together and I’m happy to be able to say that I enjoyed listening to them equally. I’m really picky when it comes to female narrators; I don’t like voices that are too girlish (which is why performers like Andi Arndt and Carly Robins work well for me – they’re able to portray young women without making them sound like airheads) and fortunately, Ms. Peachwood’s voice falls into just the right register; Fallon sounds suitably youthful (she’s late twenties) but not too young. She does a great job conveying Fallon’s toughness and vulnerability, and brings the snark really well. Brian Pallino is equally good; his performance is perfectly paced and effectively differentiated throughout, and most importantly, he’s pitch perfect as Zach, whether it’s Grumpy Arsehole Zach or Grouchy-but-Loveable Zach, Flirty Zach or Intensely Vulnerable Zach; it all comes through. His female voices are really good; not over the top or falsetto, just a slightly raised pitch and softened timbre, and both narrators respond really well to the emotional cues in the story. Engaging characters, a strong storyline, snarky humour and excellent narration make Tomboy a good bet if you’re looking for a low-drama, fun and sexy romance to listen to this summer.
Avery Flynn’s Tomboy is an engaging romantic comedy with a few darker edges that charts the development of the romance between a no-nonsense ER nurse and a seriously grumpy hockey player. It’s predictable fare, but I enjoyed the story and the characters, and also really appreciated the author’s insight into the harmful bitchery encouraged by the anonymity of social media.
Fallon Hartigan knows she’s going to regret agreeing to help out her friend Lucy when the latter asks her for a huge favour. Lucy’s biggest client, Zach Blackwood – defenceman for the Ice Knights hockey team and a PR nightmare – is sick and Lucy is out of town with her boyfriend, Fallon’s brother (whom Fallon knows plans to propose that weekend), so she all but begs Fallon to look in on Zach and make sure he’s okay. Fresh off a long shift in the ER, all Fallon wants to do is go home and sleep, but no way is she going to ruin her brother’s plans and besides, Lucy is a good friend whom Fallon knows would do anything for her – so she agrees.
Zach has more than earned his reputation as the “Most Hated Man in Harbor City”. He can’t seem get his game back on track and because of that, the Ice Knights are on a serious losing streak; and in addition he’s bad-tempered, rude and stand-offish, has never made the attempt to befriend his team-mates and certainly never makes an effort to be nice to fans. Fallon, a die-hard hockey fan, is just as pissed off about Zach’s poor performance on the ice as everyone else in town, but on seeing how ill he really is, can’t help but go into “nurse mode” – even though she still thinks he’s an irritating, selfish jerk.
Once she’s sure Zach is on the mend, Fallon leaves his house, but not before she’s snapped by a photographer on the way to her car; and when Zach suddenly returns to form on the ice, rumours start to fly about their relationship, and Fallon is dubbed “Lady Luck” by the media. When the Ice Knights loses the next game – at which Fallon is not present – Zach is persuaded to ask her to attend the next one, and while she thinks that whole “Lady Luck” thing is a load of baloney, she agrees to go if Zach will make a personal appearance at an upcoming benefit to raise money for the neighbourhood health clinic at which she volunteers. Zach never makes personal appearances, but if it’s the only way Fallon will turn up at the games… he agrees. And to his surprise, actually finds himself enjoying the day – and the company of the tall, red-haired, unflappable, witty and passionate young woman who is rapidly getting under his skin. And Fallon finds herself warming to Zach, recognising in him something of a kindred spirit in the way he uses his automatic defensiveness and layers of attitude to conceal the hurt and insecurities he doesn’t want anyone else to see.
Both characters are well-rounded and sympathetic. Fallon comes from a large, boisterous, loving family, who all support and accept each other for what and who they are, but even so, she has self-doubts that nag at her, and those are only amplified once the media chatter starts about her and Zach. She’s seen the sorts of curvaceous, perfectly made-up puck-bunnies he’s been with before and finds it hard to believe he could genuinely be interested in a woman like her – tall, lean, small-breasted , make-up eschewing and, according to some of the social media trolls, completely unfeminine. Most of the time she has no fucks to give about what anyone thinks or says about her; she’s confident in herself and knows who she is… but it’s hard to see and hear stuff like that on a daily basis and remain unaffected.
Zach has deep seated insecurities of his own that are eating away at him and his ability to live his life. Since his former managers – who were his parents – screwed him over, he’s retreated from everyone and everything except his job. He doesn’t trust anyone and doesn’t have any friends; he doesn’t want anyone to find out what happened and doesn’t want to be seen as just another dumb jock who trusted the wrong people. That those “wrong people” were his parents, the people who should have had his back, just makes the situation – and his embarrassment over it – even worse.
The author strikes a good balance between the fun, flirty romance and the darker themes that lend depth to the story. The fictional social media posts she invents are, sadly, the sort of thing that are only too familiar in the real world, and Zach’s experiences, while not typical, are not unheard of either. The romance that develops between the big-hearted, take-no-prisoners Fallon and the grumpy-but-loveable Zach, is really well done and their chemistry just sizzles. I tend to be a hero-centric reader and listener, but I liked Fallon a whole lot; she’s spunky without being annoying, snarky without being rude and tough/vulnerable in a way that’s incredibly easy to relate to.
Savannah Peachwood and Brian Pallino are both new-to-me narrators, although they’ve recorded extensively in the romance genre. As a team, they worked really well together and I’m happy to be able to say that I enjoyed listening to them equally. I’m really picky when it comes to female narrators; I don’t like voices that are too girlish (which is why performers like Andi Arndt and Carly Robins work well for me – they’re able to portray young women without making them sound like airheads) and fortunately, Ms. Peachwood’s voice falls into just the right register; Fallon sounds suitably youthful (she’s late twenties) but not too young. She does a great job conveying Fallon’s toughness and vulnerability, and brings the snark really well. Brian Pallino is equally good; his performance is perfectly paced and effectively differentiated throughout, and most importantly, he’s pitch perfect as Zach, whether it’s Grumpy Arsehole Zach or Grouchy-but-Loveable Zach, Flirty Zach or Intensely Vulnerable Zach; it all comes through. His female voices are really good; not over the top or falsetto, just a slightly raised pitch and softened timbre, and both narrators respond really well to the emotional cues in the story. Engaging characters, a strong storyline, snarky humour and excellent narration make Tomboy a good bet if you’re looking for a low-drama, fun and sexy romance to listen to this summer.
March 21, 2020
This was a cute read but also a bit of a unmemorable one. I liked the set up and the characters but the writing didn't always keep me engaged.
I've read all three in this series so far and they've all been in the 3 star ball park so I think I'm done.
I've read all three in this series so far and they've all been in the 3 star ball park so I think I'm done.
April 9, 2020
4 Stars for Tomboy: A Hot Romantic Comedy (The Harriman’s,#3) (audiobook) by Avery Flynn read by savannah Peachwood and Brian Pallino. This was a really fun story. Just what what I was looking for right now. The narration was good too.
February 25, 2019
I loooooooooooved this. I haven't read the first 2 in the series, but I plan on going back and reading them. I'm pretty pumped that it seems like Avery Flynn plans on continuing with stories for the other Ice Knights hockey players. Or at least, that's how it seems at the end of this??
I thought this book was perfect, EXCEPTTTTTTTT - I found the epilogue to be superfluous... and a little off compared to the rest of the book. Honestly, I thought the book ended perfectly without the epilogue.
#TeamZuck
I thought this book was perfect, EXCEPTTTTTTTT - I found the epilogue to be superfluous... and a little off compared to the rest of the book. Honestly, I thought the book ended perfectly without the epilogue.
#TeamZuck
June 12, 2019
“Really? That’s what you’re going with? Oh, hold on.”
She started digging through her backpack.
“Here it is.” She lifted her empty hand out of the bag and held it palm up, looking down at it with a sweet smile as if she was holding something of astronomical cuteness.
“That’s all the fucks I give about what you want.”
I think for now I’ll be giving this a 3.5. It was good and I had a fun time reading it but it just fell a tiny bit short for me after reading the Brooklyn Bruisers series for some reason. It was ~kind of~ an enemies to lovers deal but more so because both of the characters were grumps than them actually being enemies lol. I enjoyed the progression of their relationship though and there were a lot of laugh out loud parts! I feel like I just had wanted a tiny bit more…of what, I’m not really even sure. I’ll definitely be checking out the other books in the series!
“Are you okay?” she asked as she swiped some Chapstick across her lips. “You just went from dirty-talking fuck machine to silent mode.”
He laughed. “Do you ever not say what’s on your mind?”
“Occasionally just to freak people out.”
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She started digging through her backpack.
“Here it is.” She lifted her empty hand out of the bag and held it palm up, looking down at it with a sweet smile as if she was holding something of astronomical cuteness.
“That’s all the fucks I give about what you want.”
I think for now I’ll be giving this a 3.5. It was good and I had a fun time reading it but it just fell a tiny bit short for me after reading the Brooklyn Bruisers series for some reason. It was ~kind of~ an enemies to lovers deal but more so because both of the characters were grumps than them actually being enemies lol. I enjoyed the progression of their relationship though and there were a lot of laugh out loud parts! I feel like I just had wanted a tiny bit more…of what, I’m not really even sure. I’ll definitely be checking out the other books in the series!
“Are you okay?” she asked as she swiped some Chapstick across her lips. “You just went from dirty-talking fuck machine to silent mode.”
He laughed. “Do you ever not say what’s on your mind?”
“Occasionally just to freak people out.”
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February 19, 2019
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kimberlyfaye reads.
I've had my eye on Avery Flynn's Hartigans series for ages, but I've just not made the time to read any of them before now. I'm glad I took the time to read Tomboy and I'm really looking forward to reading the first two books ASAP. Preferably before ApollyCon, so I can fangirl over Avery and get her to sign all of them for me.
But that's neither here nor there. I'm supposed to be talking about Tomboy, so let me do just that. I absolutely adored this book. Fallon needs to be my new best friend. She's amazing. So spunky and relatable. I love me a good, grumpy hero and Zach so fit the bill. Of course, there was more to him than met the eye, too. Which makes me love him even more. Fallon and Zach were fantastic together. Their chemistry was sizzling and I loved watching both of them lower their walls to let the other in.
Tomboy was a fun read. I breezed through it in basically one sitting. I laughed, swooned and definitely had to fan myself a time or two. Now I can't wait to go back and read the first two books because, let's face it, I need me some more Hartigans. I have a new favorite bookish family, y'all.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Favorite Quotes:
"If we walk out of here together right now, there's only one way tonight ends."
"How's that?"
"Naked. Sweaty. Drained. Exhilarated. Probably sore. Definitely satisfied."
"I got just that, and I'm about to get it again, not because I want him to put a ring on it, but because I like fucking him. It feels phenomenal."
Holy hell, they really were two peas in an uncomfortably tight pod. Exposed soft underbelly? Cover that shit up with a titanium plate.
She was Wonder Woman in scrubs, out for truth and justice.
I've had my eye on Avery Flynn's Hartigans series for ages, but I've just not made the time to read any of them before now. I'm glad I took the time to read Tomboy and I'm really looking forward to reading the first two books ASAP. Preferably before ApollyCon, so I can fangirl over Avery and get her to sign all of them for me.
But that's neither here nor there. I'm supposed to be talking about Tomboy, so let me do just that. I absolutely adored this book. Fallon needs to be my new best friend. She's amazing. So spunky and relatable. I love me a good, grumpy hero and Zach so fit the bill. Of course, there was more to him than met the eye, too. Which makes me love him even more. Fallon and Zach were fantastic together. Their chemistry was sizzling and I loved watching both of them lower their walls to let the other in.
Tomboy was a fun read. I breezed through it in basically one sitting. I laughed, swooned and definitely had to fan myself a time or two. Now I can't wait to go back and read the first two books because, let's face it, I need me some more Hartigans. I have a new favorite bookish family, y'all.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Favorite Quotes:
"If we walk out of here together right now, there's only one way tonight ends."
"How's that?"
"Naked. Sweaty. Drained. Exhilarated. Probably sore. Definitely satisfied."
"I got just that, and I'm about to get it again, not because I want him to put a ring on it, but because I like fucking him. It feels phenomenal."
Holy hell, they really were two peas in an uncomfortably tight pod. Exposed soft underbelly? Cover that shit up with a titanium plate.
She was Wonder Woman in scrubs, out for truth and justice.
February 1, 2019
If you've never heard of Avery Flynn (which, sadly, I hadn't until Muffintop, then I suggest you stop what you're doing, go to whichever preferred book retailer you normally throw your money at, and check out the Hartigan series by Ms. Flynn. I'll warn you, if you don't like any detailed love scenes, then she's not going to be your cup of tea. However, she's not what I'd deem "erotica", so... I'll just leave that there.
But, oh my word, does Avery Flynn know how to tell a quirky, flirty love story. And it's not because she abuses the same tropes we're all so used to (no judgement here, for those that do--I love a good campy romance trope). I love these stories because these characters are sassy, unique, and have qualities that are remarkably realistic.
With titles like Butterface, Muffintop, and Tomboy, this shouldn't come as a surprise.
Tomboy, being the third in the series, takes us into the world of Fallon Hartigan. She's about as feisty and independent as they come. But, throw a rather charming hockey player in her direction and we see a Fallon that thaws throughout the book.
Fallon, who we met in the previous two Hartigan books, is a nurse who basically gets stuck caring for the town's most-hated hockey player (due to some previous actions of his). With preconceived ideas regarding each other, both Fallon and Zach have some hurtles to overcome--but, none of these hurtles quite matches the issues revolving around these two stubborn individuals who didn't see the other coming.
This story will no doubt hold your attention from beginning to end. You'll be swept away with Fallon and Zach, and get to see some of your favorites from the previous two books, as well.
You can read this as a stand-alone. But, I wouldn't suggest it. In fact, see above: Go check out Butterface while you're waiting for Tomboy to hit stores February 18th.
But, oh my word, does Avery Flynn know how to tell a quirky, flirty love story. And it's not because she abuses the same tropes we're all so used to (no judgement here, for those that do--I love a good campy romance trope). I love these stories because these characters are sassy, unique, and have qualities that are remarkably realistic.
With titles like Butterface, Muffintop, and Tomboy, this shouldn't come as a surprise.
Tomboy, being the third in the series, takes us into the world of Fallon Hartigan. She's about as feisty and independent as they come. But, throw a rather charming hockey player in her direction and we see a Fallon that thaws throughout the book.
Fallon, who we met in the previous two Hartigan books, is a nurse who basically gets stuck caring for the town's most-hated hockey player (due to some previous actions of his). With preconceived ideas regarding each other, both Fallon and Zach have some hurtles to overcome--but, none of these hurtles quite matches the issues revolving around these two stubborn individuals who didn't see the other coming.
This story will no doubt hold your attention from beginning to end. You'll be swept away with Fallon and Zach, and get to see some of your favorites from the previous two books, as well.
You can read this as a stand-alone. But, I wouldn't suggest it. In fact, see above: Go check out Butterface while you're waiting for Tomboy to hit stores February 18th.
July 23, 2024
July 22, 2024
I've read this book a few times, and I thought it was cute. But this time around, I'm going to have to drop my rating. It was actually so irritating to read about how much of a "bossy bitch" she was and a "man-hater". She said multiple times how she wasn't a "girlie-girl" and that was just too annoying. I don't need this type of rhetoric to establish a singular character trait. I'll leave it on my re-read-romance shelf in honor of the fact that I've read it a few times, but we'll see if I pick it up again.
March 24, 2019
This was adorable!!
What I loved about this book was the kind of slowburn feel to the story. And I always love when other people play matchmaker. For some reason, I find it hilarious. I really liked Fallon, and even though Zach had a huge man ego, it turned out all right at the end. This was my favorite one in the series so far.
Butterface: 3 stars
Muffin Top: 4 stars
Tomboy: 5 stars
And I'm out.
I've read this book a few times, and I thought it was cute. But this time around, I'm going to have to drop my rating. It was actually so irritating to read about how much of a "bossy bitch" she was and a "man-hater". She said multiple times how she wasn't a "girlie-girl" and that was just too annoying. I don't need this type of rhetoric to establish a singular character trait. I'll leave it on my re-read-romance shelf in honor of the fact that I've read it a few times, but we'll see if I pick it up again.
March 24, 2019
This was adorable!!
What I loved about this book was the kind of slowburn feel to the story. And I always love when other people play matchmaker. For some reason, I find it hilarious. I really liked Fallon, and even though Zach had a huge man ego, it turned out all right at the end. This was my favorite one in the series so far.
Butterface: 3 stars
Muffin Top: 4 stars
Tomboy: 5 stars
And I'm out.
February 16, 2019
TOMBOY by Avery Flynn is book Three in The Hartigans Series. This is the story of Fallon Hartigan and Zach Blackburn. This was a standalone for me. Fallon is a nurse at St. Vincent's Hospital along with volunteering at a low income medical facility. So her time and stress level are stretched. But when her best friend and future sister-in-law calls asking for her help...she has a hard time saying no. Lucy is a PR for Zach who plays for the Ice Knights and isn't a local favorite. Lucy talks Fallon into going to help Zach who happens to be sick and no one to take care of him. Both attracted to the other but have a concept of them in their head that isn't what the other really is, so it was fun reading their story. Really enjoyed this book and will look for more from this author.
October 30, 2020
This one is for sure my favorite in this romance series!
I really liked both of our main characters, and really loved watching them grow and grow together.
*listened to on audible escape*
I really liked both of our main characters, and really loved watching them grow and grow together.
*listened to on audible escape*
August 5, 2020
This was a cute, nicely written little read. Loved the characters and the love/hate thing it all started with. It’s not an overly complex story, a hockey player estranged from his parents for ‘reasons’ meets a no nonsense nurse and they are attracted to each other throw in the fact that she supposedly was his Lady Luck for his games and you’ve got your lot. I did think the Lady Luck thing kind of just evaporated as other plots took over but it didn’t occur to me until the end that the plot point dwindled. The family dynamic was funny ...slightly cheesy ILY’s at the end but I’m weird about public declarations ❤️☺️
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