I am not okay.Fifteen months ago, my life was turned upside down when the plane I was piloting went down. Injured and trapped in the wreckage, I had to watch my fiancée die a painfully slow death, which is something that can really mess with your head. Since that day, I’ve had little desire to do much of anything. Except play hockey, that is. Because that is the one place where the bad memories … the bad memories are banished and I can escape my pain.
But off the ice, I’m spiraling out of control. Losing the grip on my life and putting myself and my career in danger. Now, thanks to a string of bad decisions, I’ve been ordered to complete therapy in order to stay on the team.
The problem? Nora Wayne, my beautiful and somewhat unconventional therapist. I can’t buy into the brand of happy clappy crap this woman is feeding me. What could she possibly understand about the type of loss that I’ve suffered? How does she know anything about finding happiness after losing the most important person in your life?
Turns out, I’ve got a lot to learn, and she’s just the person I need to break through those walls I’ve erected.
I am not okay.
But for the first time in a long time, I know that I will be.
more
I knew Tacker’s story was going to be a sad one but I didn’t expect Nora’s past to absolutely crush me. I have been wanting Tacker’s story since I first met him at the beginning of the series. Tacker suffered a great loss and blamed himself for it, we have been fed little bits and pieces throughout each of the books in the series and since they overlap I suggest reading them in order, and he stole my heart more and more with each morsel we learned out about him. Now Tacker has gotten himself in a bit of trouble and instead of the team owner cutting him loose he requires him to go to therapy.
Nora, WOW, she is nothing at all like I had expected. I knew it would take a strong person to help Tacker deal with his past but damn this woman rocks. I am not going to tell you anything about her other than she is Tacker’s therapist and there is an instant connection between the two of them. I thought my heart broke when I heard about Tacker’s past but if that was the case Nora’s past stomped it to pieces. I am telling you now TISSUES ARE A MUST!!!!
I have been really enjoying this series watching each of these men find the woman of their dreams but what I think I enjoy most of all is the overlapping of the stories so you see different points of views during different events that are going on. I would highly suggest reading this series in order of release, they do not end with a cliffhanger and each book is based around one main couple but if you skip around you may miss something or it may spoil something for you.
Happy Reading!!!
Tacker’s story has been building since the first book in the series (that’s why even though this can be read standalone, it will pack a bigger punch if you read from the beginning).
Readers of this series know that this book might induce tears — so standalone readers be forewarned. This story hits some real lows and also definite high spots and everything in between.
The book starts out with Tacker in bad shape and with some conditions or he’s off the team. One is that he get some counseling. It’s not easy to find a counselor that Tacker will work with, but the team owner comes through with a solution.
His new counselor is fairly skilled at handling Tacker and getting him to open up. Which he does, so have some tissues ready. It’s one of the best scenes in the story, and there’s no doubt that Tacker has made significant progress. But then things get complicated when both Tacker and Nora realize they have feelings for each other.
The story is fast paced and it was wonderful to see Tacker’s story take a positive turn. Nora was amazing and her relationship with Raul was an interesting addition to the story. It was great to catch up with the previous couples in the series as well as get teased about Dominik’s story.
Overall, an emotional and entertaining read.
Tacker by Sawyer Bennett is absolutely phenomenal!
I’ve been waiting on pins and needles for her to give us Tackers story. And she did not disappoint.
Tacker has faces loss that’s unfathomable to comprehend. He’s suffered and continues to carry so much guilt with him.
Then he meets the unique and beautiful therapist Nora.
Nora has suffered her own losses. She knows what’s its like to be a survivor when you’ve lost so much.
Will she be able to save Tacker! It’s so worth the read to see.
The feels are real!!!
5 Huge Stars
This is such an emotional story but with a beautiful ending. Sawyer Bennett just blew me away with this one. I knew it was going to be a good story but by the end it was a phenomenal story! It exceeded all my expectations. Right from the start I was hooked and I did not want to stop! The flow of the story was perfect and kept me engaged the entire time.
I just loved these characters and the story they had to tell. It was just perfect for these two characters to end up together and how it happened was great. Some parts of Tacker’s backstory were mentioned in the previous books but the author does a great job at including those so if you haven’t read the previous books you are not left in the dark. This is probably one of my favorite stories of the year. I just loved everything about it! The emotion, the humor, the sweet moments…just everything! I highly recommend reading this one!
Tacker (Arizona Vengeance #5) by Sawyer Bennett. I have wanted this story for so long. Tacker hasn’t been the same since the accident that killed his fiancee. He is an amazing hockey player but outside the game he doesn’t like to engage with his teammates. His recent actions have push the team and management to the edge. Now in order to stay on the team he has to go to therapy. This story did not disappoint. Tacker doesn’t want therapy but he loves the game more. Resistant to therapy Nora has her work cut out trying to deal with Tacker. Nora runs a horse therapy farm and doesn’t have a clue who Tacker is. The interaction between the 2 took me on a lovely trip that was one of trust, emotions and a connection that kept a smile on my face. Loved Tacker and Nora. The sexual tension was so heavy you could cut it with a knife. I also love the characters from the other books and I got a chance to catch up with them in Tacker. You can read this book as a standalone but you need to read the other books. They are all great stories plus you will have background on the other characters. I truly love this series and look forward to the next book. I hope to see more of Tacker and Nora in the next stories. Cant get enough of them. A 5 star read for me.
This installment was way more than I had expected .. the heart and soul that was poured into every word will have you crying and cheering at the same time .. the struggle is real in this book and Sawyer has you strung out all the way through from the first word to the the last !!Truly AMAZING !!
Tacker catches a break with management as Dominic sees something in him and gives him a second chance to stay in the team with MANDATORY therapy sessions. After the 1st therapist doesn’t work out Dominic find him Dr. Nora .. just Nora .. and he finds they have more in common that eases his mind and gets him through therapy and so much more ….
Nora never expects to get through to Tacker as fast as she does .. is it the therapy or the connect she feels and does he feel it too ?? You would think she never get him to talk about the accident but with the horses and the easy sessions of just talking makes it feel like they are friends instead of doctor/patient or is it friends/lovers ??
The more I write the more I am afraid I will spoil this great love story .. so here it is .. Tacker isn’t someone you should be scared of, he is a man with a broken heart looking to repair it with the LOVE of a compatible, right, strong woman !!
This hockey sports romance was such an enjoyable read! It is a story about finding hope and love in the aftermath of tragedy and grief. For those who you who have been waiting for Tacker’s story, this book does not disappoint. For those of you who haven’t read any of the books in this author’s Arizona Vengeance, be prepared to have your heartstrings pulled and to fall in love with Tacker and Nora.
Tacker is on a downward spiral and is at risk of losing the one thing that gives him solace – hockey. He is skeptical about Nora and all of her “hippie dippie” tactics, but his hockey career is on the line if he doesn’t participate in counseling. Nora has her work cut out for her, but she has some unconventional ways of providing therapy which just might be what this damaged hero needs.
This book respectfully and eloquently tackles overcoming grief and guilt in the face of devastation. The author does an impeccable job of showing how Tacker processes what happened to him and his fiancé all while illustrating the power behind Nora’s creative and effective techniques in helping him to cope. My heart broke for Tacker and for Nora for what they each have endured and they were both strong, resilient characters. Nora is a breath of fresh air with her compassion, understanding, and ability to help Tacker and many other people who are struggling for various reasons. Surprisingly, given the subject material, this book was relatively low on drama and angst which I think was fitting for this novel. I really enjoyed how the romance between Nora and Tacker unraveled. It wasn’t an insta-lust or insta-love, but more of a gradual build-up. I also thought the author did an amazing job with the evolution of Tacker’s character.
Tacker is book 5 in this author’s Arizona Vengeance hockey series, but it can be read as a standalone. There is some character overlap (yes, we get to see all of our favorite couples!), but you will not find yourself lost if you dive right into Tacker.
I am not okay. This book was everything! The cover is life. That IS Tacker.
It’s part of the Arizona Vengeance series. Although technically it can be read as a stand-alone, the experience is so much sweeter if you have read the previous books. It gives you so much more insight into Tacker and his emotional headspace prior to the events in his book. Tacker and Nora were so sweet. They both had so much to work through but their connection was so strong. I don’t think anyone else would have done for Tacker and the same for Nora.
My only complaint about this book is that it ended. It just ended like I didn’t want more Tacker and Nora. I do. I want more!
5 emotional and sexy stars! Love, love, love. Read this book!
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
Like many others I have been waiting for Tacker’s story. It was a very emotional read.
Tacker’s character has been stuggling with the death of his fiance and each book leading up to this one we have witnessed his pain. Reading about how she died and his feeelings of guilt was so sad and painful. When he is sent to therapy as a condition of returning to the team, he meets a wonderful therapist who shares her own heartbreaking story. It was the begginning of Tacker forgiving himself. Seeing Tacker come back to life was so gratifying after all this time. I smiled exch time he move forward in life. Nora was an amazing chracter to read about. I love thier love stroy. This is a second chance at life story.
Wow! I have been waiting for Tacker’s story! We’ve been getting clips of him and his tragedy in previous Vengeance books but now we get it all. And, boy, his story didn’t disappoint! Nora is the light that Tacker needs to lead him out of the darkness.
I’ve loved all of Sawyer Bennett’s books but this one was just spectacular. 5 stars!!!
OMG I’ve been waiting for Tackers story since the very beginning and it does not disappoint…..it will suck you in, steal your souls and leave you longing for a man like Tacker. I cried, I laughed and I was shredded by this book. The emotions it pulls from you are overwhelming and intense. I’m grateful that Tacker got his happily ever after, Nora completes him in a way that made me smile.
Audio Review Amendment:
I have loved this new series Arizona Vengeance from the VERY beginning. I have been falling more in love with one of the characters from the VERY beginning. Please do not get me wrong, I have loved all the characters, one in particular (MAF, cough, cough), but the character I am talking about… Tacker. His injured soul, right from the very beginning has pulled at me. What he went through in his young adult life, NO one should have to go thru mere days before his wedding to the love of his life. My heart just broke for him. So, when I found out Tacker was going to have his own story with the Vengeance, I knew, just knew I was going to love the story, I could not wait for it to hit my tablet!! And da….er, darn, if I was not correct. PHENOMENAL!!!
Kudos Ms. Bennet!!!! You have written one heck of a story for Tacker and Nora. THANK YOU!!
I cried so hard, when I when I read what actually happened after the crash. (Thanks, a lot, Ms. Bennett, you have stock in Kleenex, don’t you??) Watching Nora help Tacker to want to live, for more than just hockey… Sigh. OMG, what Nora went through, and how she grew beyond what happened. I think by telling Tacker her story, this is why/how she was able to help him so much.
It was also wonderful seeing the characters from previous book. I LOVE the way this team seems to be so much more than a team, they are “family” in the full sense of the word. I think this is why I love this series, no, more than that, ALL of Ms. Bennett’s books, so much. The characters are “family”.
Thank you, Ms. Bennett, for gifting us with this story. In my humble opinion, sorry/not sorry, you are going to be hard pressed to outdo this phenomenal book.
Thank you, Ladies, for reading my review. I hope I have helped you to make the decision to purchase this phenomenal book. It is available at you favorite retailer, so go hit that purchase button, you will love this story.
Now, go away, this spectacular also released as an Audible book today, and I want to go listen to it.
NOW!!!
Well, I have listened…
AUDIO REVIEW UPDATE…
OH! MY!! GOSH!!!!!
EVEN FREAKING BETTER!!!! If this is even possible. Yeah, Thanks to Ms. Bennett, Stephen Dexter, and Lucy Rivers, I finished off that box of tissues I started using when I was reading the book; Yeah, I finished it while listening. Two places in particular, my God, my heart just shattered. Yeah, I know fiction… Shut up. First, when Lucy Rivers, as Nora, told the story Nora’s family endured in Kosovo. Second, when Stephen Dexter, as Tacker told the story of the plane crash, and what happened to MJ after the crash. I had to quit listening for a while after each place because they just brought these two scenes to so much life. I was crying like a freaking baby.
Thank you, Ms. Rivers, and Mr. Dexter for sharing your narrative talents during your performance of this book. Kudos to both of you.
Again, thank you for reading my review of this spectacular, highly emotional book. If you like listening to the audio versions of books, I HIGHLY recommend listening to Tacker, as well as ALLLLLL of the previous books in this wonderful series. I know you will love them as much as I have.
This is book #5, in the Arizona Vengeance series. This story can be read as a standalone novel. For reader understanding, and to avoid spoilers, I recommend you read this hot series in order intended.
Tacker has had tragedy turn him into someone he does not recognize. His team has finally said enough. He must seek help or he is out. The first person he saw was a joke. Can this 2nd person who is so good looking its unbelievable be of help?
Nora has ways of helping others heal. She wants the souls who are hurting to feel better. Her way is not the same as the old fashioned way. It works on its own merit. Tacker brings a whole new set of trials with him. Can they get along long enough for her to help him heal?
Such a sweet story from the beginning. You really feel how the main character needs someone to help. I wanted to just give him a hug. This story turned out to be very well done on a seriously touchy subject. I loved the sexy side approach. Great addition to the series!
***This early copy was given in exchange for an honest review only.
Favorite Quotes:
“You hurt her, and I will kill you. Even though I like you, I will kill you very dead. Take your body out in the desert and dump it. No one will find you.” I don’t laugh. He’s quite serious, and I respect him for it. “I’ll do my best.”
“Just be quiet,” I snap. “Or I’m going to call MaryBeth Henson to come and watch over you this afternoon while I go feed the horses.” A slight tinge of fear seeps into Raul’s expression. She showed up yesterday with a bag of knitting, then promptly sat in one of the other guest chairs and glared at Raul the entire time, almost daring him to get sicker.
My Review:
This story was a heart-squeezer with both main characters having suffered devastating losses, and also dealt with heavy issues and concerns with thoughtful insights and perception. While the emotional tone was often angsty and melancholy, clever hits of humor and bone-melting sensual steam restored the balance and kept the story from being maudlin. Written in my favorite dual POV, the storylines were relevant, well-paced, observantly detailed, and featured likable and endearing characters. I appreciated the comradery, compassion, and the considerate and supportive nature of the relationships between all the characters.
I have been waiting for Tackers’ story since he came to the Arizona Vengeance. And Sawyer Bennett did not disappoint. It seems she can write about anything bringing such depth and emotion. This story was captivating!
This was such a touching story about a grief stricken man who is drowning in his grief, quilt and anger over the death of his fiancé. His only solace is playing hockey. But when his grief and anger leads to destructive behavior the team management gives him an ultimatum. Follow their rules or he is off the team.
Nora Wayne runs a equine therapy ranch outside of the city. She is a licensed clinical social worker just barely making it by. Nora has suffered horrors you can’t even imagine. She has lost more than anyone and has come out of it still smiling and hopeful. She radiates sunshine and optimism. And is Tackers’ new counselor. Beautiful, kind, and strong and determined to live life to its fullest. Will Nora be able to motivate Tacker back to the living?
There were so many great details and moments that just filled me up. I was captivated with grief and compassion for Tacker. I was stressed out, I was tearful. I was worried. I was rooting for them. My emotions pretty much ran the gamut while reading this. I loved watching Tacker grow and show his new self. You don’t want to miss this one. #lovedtacker
I voluntarily read a early copy, for an honest review.
Tacker is the fifth book in the Arizona Vengeance series. Each of these books in this series can be read as standalones. But your reading will be greatly enhanced by reading the other books in order so you will know the other characters and Tacker has been talked about in all the other books.
We finally get to read Tacker’s story. Tacker has been a mess since his fiancée died. He made some very bad decisions and now Tacker has been mandated to have therapy. Meet Nora Wayne she is Tacker Hall’s new therapist after his first therapist was a no-go for him. Nora’s story will rip your heart to pieces.
I loved reading Tacker’s story. This book was an emotional roller coaster ride! I laughed, I cried. I have enjoyed all the stories told so far but Tacker’s story was the best! 10 stars plus a Bravo, Bravo!!!
Now who’s next? I think there is one more book in this series.
This is a series that has found a special place in my heart. The team member, Tacker Hall, who was mentioned briefly in prior books, and suffering deeply, was a man whose story I couldn’t wait to read.
Whether you have read the entire series or are just starting with it today, this is truly a storyline that will resonate with everyone. It is a story which proves that there is redemption from our darkest times – there is redemption in love and loss itself.
Nora and Tacker’s story will take you on a journey that proves that with grief, happiness can blossom and become greater than anyone could have ever dreamed – more importantly there is freedom in healing.
As Always, Happy Reading!
“5/5 Beaming Brains!” – Lit-Up My Mind
Tacker is the fifth book in the Arizona Vengeance series by Sawyer Bennett. It can be read as standalone but I do recommend reading the series since it’s sexy and fun. It will also make you fell in love with Tacker even more. I have been waiting for his story for what seems like forever and let me tell you…it was so worth the fucking wait.
Tacker was happy. He was going to be getting married in two short weeks. His life was everything he wanted until it all changed. A plane crash that he would never forget. One he was piloting. One that took his fiancée. And for the next fifteen months he was lost, angry, and was stuck in the darkness. Until he met her…
Nora ran Shërim Ranch and her schedule was packed but when the owner of the Arizona Vengeance calls and needs your help…you listen. And that was why he was here. Tacker. Nora didn’t know anything about him except he had to complete therapy to stay on the team and Dominik, the team owner thought she would be a perfect fit. She was up for the challenge after speaking to Tacker for just a few minutes. She felt his anger. Not towards her but towards himself. She wanted to help this broken man and she even felt a connection to him. One she couldn’t explore.
Tacker and Nora had battles to conquer. Together. Tacker didn’t think this hippie-dippie woman with her sunshines and rainbows would be able to fight with him but she was bringing him out of the darkness. She was determined to show him the light. That he could be happy. That life was worth living. That he was worth it. One day at a time.
Wow! I loved this one. It might even be my favorite of the series. I felt for Tacker from the moment I found out why he wasn’t like the rest of the team. He didn’t socialize. He was angry and he has every right to be. And to see him open up in this book? Amazing. I loved every minute of his emotional ride. And Nora…I love her!! She is beautiful inside and out. I loved their banter, heat, and determination.
Quotes:
“We’re fun to hang out with.”
Sadly, I have to admit it’s true. “Only because you ladies know hockey and other sports and didn’t discuss PMS or the Kardashians.”
Airily, Brooke waves her wineglass. “We’d already covered those subjects before you got here.”
“We should dance.” I blink, sure I misunderstood him.
“Dance?” “Yeah… dance,” he repeats. “I’ve fucking evolved.”
Sawyer Bennett lights the lamp with Tacker (Arizona Vengeance #5). This is NHL center Tacker Hall’s and therapist Nora Wayne’s story. I was looking so forward to hearing Tacker’s story. Sawyer Bennett blew me away with this novel. In the previous books, we witnessed Tacker’s life spiraling after his fiancé died in a plane crash that he was piloting. Team management forces Tacker to seek grief counseling if he wants to stay on the team. He meets therapist Nora Wayne, who has also suffered loss and inspires him. This contemporary sports romance is suitable for adult readers.
I adored this story. It was inspirational and heartfelt. I love that Nora is not your stereotypical therapist. I think it’s great that she uses Sherim Ranch and Equine therapeutic services. She is an amazing person with a big heart and interesting insights. I love everything about Sherim Ranch. My heart went out to both Nora and Tacker and what they went through. Tacker is suffering from survivor’s guilt. I appreciated how Tacker opens after Nora confides in him. I respect that he wants to be a better teammate and friend. Nora and Tacker are perfect for each other. They have amazing chemistry, and they help each other heal.
Sawyer Bennet continues to do an amazing job with this series. I am looking forward to team owner Dominik Carlson and Willow Monahan’s story next. Dominick has been instrumental in the Arizona Vengeance series. I love how involved he is with his players. Willow is Dax’s (Arizona Vengeance #4) sister. I recommend Tacker and this series to people who enjoy sports romances that encompass meaningful issues. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
Tacker is the 5th book in the Arizona vengeance series. Tacker has suffered an awful heartbreak that has left him broken and spiraling. His spiraling leads him straight into therapy, where he meets Nora. She is exactly what he needs to repair his damaged heart. He has already suffered an unimaginable loss, will he risk it again? I loved Tacker, I can’t imagine a better hero! This book was amazing and I can’t wait for what’s next!!