I really enjoyed Luca’s book, his family and him have been through so much tragic events but he is staying strong and taking care of his nieces and nephew like no other. Abby is a strong willed person even if she thinks other wise, she also has been through quite a bit of tragedy and she has taken it and created something awesome out of it but she still struggles emotionally. Will these two come together and help each other heal or is the tragedy too much for them to take on a new relationship? Great read. ( )

Good story.
Given the cover and it being a sports romance you'd expect a man-whore Hero but he isn't.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Pushing away from heroine.
HEA. ( )

This book was a little bit of a heartbreaker. It starts out steamy and passionate and at the end is a heartwarming HEA but do keep the tissues handy. And Luca, my goodness! I wish he was a real live character. So accepting and compassionate. Helping Abby along step by step just being there, being what she needs. Abby too steps up when he's in a fix but overcoming the ghosts of her past was no easy feat. I look forward to Victor's book.

Advance Review Copy provided for voluntary review consideration. ( )

Brenda Rothert’s LUCA is a game-winner. Hockey player, Luca Campbell and entrepreneur, Abby Daniels have a one-night-stand that turns into more. This contemporary sports romance is suitable for adult readers.

LUCA is a touching and heartwarming read. Brenda Rothert does an exceptional job with her character development. Abby is an admirable character. After losing her family, she throws herself into opening Cypress Lane, a successful home furnishing business. Luca is an amazing guy. He took custody of his nieces and nephew (Cora, Jake, and Emerson) after his brother and sister-in-law died. Along with the kids, they understand loss and are the perfect people to help heal each other. There are a lot of emotions and rebuilding that takes place.

I enjoyed the plot. There is a quote in this book that sums up the story seamlessly, “Sometimes, the curve balls life throws at you end up becoming home runs.” Yes, it is a baseball reference in a hockey romance, but it is accurate. LUCA is a worthy addition to the Chicago Blaze series. It is skillfully written and hard to put down. I recommend this story to people that enjoy touching sports romances. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book. ( )