Audiobook ARC Review: Coach's Challenge by Avon Gale

From the blurb:

It’s been decades since blackmail forced Troy Callahan to retire from playing professional hockey, and he’s built a successful career behind the bench. When he’s offered the opportunity to coach the Asheville Ravens—the most hated team in the ECHL—he’s convinced that his no-nonsense attitude is just what the team needs to put their focus back on hockey. But Troy is disheartened when he finds out the Ravens have signed Shane North, a player known for his aggression—especially when Shane’s rough good looks have Troy thinking inappropriate thoughts about a player, even if he’s set to retire at the end of the season. 

Shane’s career in the majors never quite took off. Wanting to quit on his own terms, Shane agrees to a one-year contract with the Ravens and finds himself playing for a coach who thinks he’s an aging goon, and with a team that doesn’t trust him, Troy, or each other. Despite his determination not to get involved, Shane unwillingly becomes part of the team… and is just as unwillingly drawn to the gruff, out-and-proud coach. As the Ravens struggle to build a new identity, Shane and Troy succumb to the passion that might cost them everything.

Heather's rating:








I've LOVED the entire Scoring Chances series, and Coach's Challenge was no different! Hot, sarcastic, bossy, mature MEN (not boys!) who took their relationship from flirting to sexual to more, and a great audiobook narration to boot.

I've had a bad streak with Avon Gale's work recently, so I was actually nervous about starting Coach's Challenge. However, it didn't let me down at all, and I was thrilled that the audio reading was as good as I had remembered. I didn't want to stop listening, which is the best feeling, let me tell you.



Okay, if I'm being honest, this isn't the most romantic of the series. There isn't a lot of affection and lovey-dovey feelings. However, I really liked the easy, comfortable relationship between the two MCs. Their interactions were... fun. Easy. Other than a little twist thrown in at the end, it's a low drama book with the focus on the characters themselves, which is how I like it.

Scott R. Smith again did a great job with the narration. I can always tell his voices apart, and though his peppy, high energy narration and pauses take a little getting used to, I adore him narrating this series.

If you've enjoyed the other books in the Scoring Chances series, this one will be a no-brainer. It's snarky banter and sex in semi-public places and two men that know who they are and what they want. It's a good one.

*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*

Buy this audiobook:

Amazon, Audible, iTunes

Enjoy, my friends!