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Las Vegas Sidewinders #8
Vladimir
Professional hockey player Vladimir Kolnikov grew up in a Russian orphanage with nothing. Now, the 23-year-old left wing for the Las Vegas Sidewinders has everything he ever dreamed of, including a brilliant career and a fiancée whom he adores. At the altar, Vlad's cold feet have nothing to do with the ice or the beautiful woman he left standing there, and everything to do with not knowing who he really is. Before he can contemplate a future with her, he has to bury his past.
A-lister Rachel Kennedy puts on a smile for the camera every day, but it only became genuine the day Vlad skated into her life. He made her happier than any woman had a right to be, until he left her just minutes before their wedding ceremony. When Vlad's betrayal is followed by another devastating blow, it may be more than she can handle.
As Rachel searches for healing, Vlad searches for answers, which leads him back to Moscow where an unexpected discovery changes his life forever. As his world tilts on its axis, he struggles to come to terms with his past at a time when Rachel needs him the most. Can she ever forgive him or will Vlad be out in the cold?
A-lister Rachel Kennedy puts on a smile for the camera every day, but it only became genuine the day Vlad skated into her life. He made her happier than any woman had a right to be, until he left her just minutes before their wedding ceremony. When Vlad's betrayal is followed by another devastating blow, it may be more than she can handle.
As Rachel searches for healing, Vlad searches for answers, which leads him back to Moscow where an unexpected discovery changes his life forever. As his world tilts on its axis, he struggles to come to terms with his past at a time when Rachel needs him the most. Can she ever forgive him or will Vlad be out in the cold?
First published February 21, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
February 18, 2018
The story of Vladimir and Rachel is a story where both characters have to look deeper into each other to trust and find a binding forever love ~ Elizabeth @ White Hot Reads
There are many times in their story that I want to just slap "Vlad" upside the head... that said this makes you want to keep reading. You want Vlad to get through the bad that he must pursue to seek his happiness. Our poor Rachel must go through trials herself to get her HEA.
This story is filled with friendship, laughter and love. We also get more Toli and Jamie....so I was a vary happy girl. Great Story.... Could not put it down!
There are many times in their story that I want to just slap "Vlad" upside the head... that said this makes you want to keep reading. You want Vlad to get through the bad that he must pursue to seek his happiness. Our poor Rachel must go through trials herself to get her HEA.
This story is filled with friendship, laughter and love. We also get more Toli and Jamie....so I was a vary happy girl. Great Story.... Could not put it down!
February 22, 2018
I love the drama!
This series is all about drama. The best, delicious, warmest, over-the-top, cannot get enough, oh so good drama! The hockey players of the Las Vegas Sidewinders franchise, and the women (and men) who come into their lives, make a group of friends – a family – that I can’t get enough of…
This time out, Vlad is working his way to, hopefully, his happily ever after. He and Rachel hit it off right away as seen through flashbacks of their relationship. As things fell apart, it was good to see how it all started, showing a connection that might be strong enough to survive…
Maybe….
“He felt like a fraud…”
Vlad was tortured by his past that was clear to see. How he handled it was something he had to do even if his timing made him into number one asshole material. I could not help but feel his pain despite the choices he made. Rachel was collateral damage but he really did not realize how big a mistake he made. Rachel, however, was quick to make him aware…
And what a battle it was… Emotional from start to finish, I loved how all the characters loved, feuded and cared for each other, giving us updates on familiar faces while breaking new ground. Each story becomes my new favourite and this one was no exception! I hope there are more to come!
LOL:
“The first time you told me you loved me hypnotized my vagina into a sex fiend.”
February 22, 2018
Vladimir: Las Vegas Sidewinders (Book 9) by Kat Mizera ---This is Vladimir and Rachel��s story. The story starts off with a bang when the wedding of hockey player Vladimir Kolnikov and actress Rachel Kennedy was supposed to happen suddenly didn’t. Rachel is blindsided when the groom never showed up. She is left trying to pick up her life and figure out what happened. What no one knew is the groom Vlad had been sitting in his car in front of the hotel, having a panic attack. He was looking back at his life wondering how he came to be where he was now –a boy who was an orphan who suddenly got to come to America as a teenager and play professional hockey. He never knew his mom or dad. But Vlad knew he needed answers before he could get married because until he got those answers, he would continue to feel like a fraud. Vlad left and hopped on a plane to Russia to get those answers. Vlad didn’t tell anyone and this sudden action caused a chain reaction behind…his relationship with Rachel was severely damaged, he hurt his career, his friendships suffered. But Vlad had to know things because it was truly affecting him. I will say I thought he was incredibly selfish to do what he did and not talk to his fiancée especially since he waited until moments before he was to be married. I couldn’t see the Vlad I had read from previous books being like this…he came across as incredibly selfish. As for Rachel, she was heartbroken and was left picking up the pieces of her life. I don’t want to give spoilers away but I will say she had to face an incredibly life changing decision when all this happened and it involved a possible life/death situation. It was something that I didn’t see coming. It was Rachel and Vlad that had sort of two separate stories going on in the beginning of the book and then toward the middle they sort of came back together. Would Rachel take him back or would she make him continue to pay for his bad decisions ? Will Vlad ever get the answers that he sought or did he practically ruin everything for nothing? This was a such a emotional rollercoaster ride and I enjoyed reading more in the Sidewinders series. Each and every player grabs a piece of my heart. I was so sad when this story ended but it was great getting to see previous characters from other books make an appearance. Overall, Vladimir is a story of loss and redemption , of hope and love and true friends. I loved every moment and my empty tissue box can attest to how emotional this book was. If you like emotional, passionate and angsty, then this is a winner!
My Rating: 4.6 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."
My Rating: 4.6 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."
February 22, 2018
Gimme, gimme more from this author and I'm on cloud nine...
Kat Mizera has this effect on me. I mean, every new book and I'm always eager to read non stop and get more from her. Amazing right?
Her writing is hot, intense, sweet and sometimes wild, just the way I like it.
Vladimir is her latest release and it's the ninth book from the Sidewinders series. Let me just say that I've started this backwords....
This books explores the lifes of Vladimir and Rachel.
Vladimir wasn't always a famous hockey player. He grew up in an orphanage. Today he's a happy man, getting ready to get married to the love of his life but when the day arrives, his void to know where he came from and all the questions that keep hunting him made him left his bride at the altar.
Rachael only found out true happiness the day Vladimir entered her life. She's more happy than the could have imagine and is about to get married but when her fiance up and left she saw her world crumbling down.
And now what will happen? Can they find what they are seeking? Can she forgive?
Jesus... This book is amazing.
The plot is amazing, super engaging and heartfelt. One of the things that attracted me more was the fact that we had an insight between the past and the present. I love when I can follow their paths from the beginning.
The interaction between the characters is beautiful, sweet but due to some events become tumultuous.
This book presented us with love, friendship, kindness as well as heartache, deceive and abandon. There were parts of this book that I've cried so much that I had to stop reading for a sec. One second I wanted to slap these two, let's talk about some stubborn guys, but there were other parts that I wanted to hold them and let them know that everything would be alright.
Jesus Kat what a book this was. Let's talk about an intense story. But I need to know what's next?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Kat Mizera has this effect on me. I mean, every new book and I'm always eager to read non stop and get more from her. Amazing right?
Her writing is hot, intense, sweet and sometimes wild, just the way I like it.
Vladimir is her latest release and it's the ninth book from the Sidewinders series. Let me just say that I've started this backwords....
This books explores the lifes of Vladimir and Rachel.
Vladimir wasn't always a famous hockey player. He grew up in an orphanage. Today he's a happy man, getting ready to get married to the love of his life but when the day arrives, his void to know where he came from and all the questions that keep hunting him made him left his bride at the altar.
Rachael only found out true happiness the day Vladimir entered her life. She's more happy than the could have imagine and is about to get married but when her fiance up and left she saw her world crumbling down.
And now what will happen? Can they find what they are seeking? Can she forgive?
Jesus... This book is amazing.
The plot is amazing, super engaging and heartfelt. One of the things that attracted me more was the fact that we had an insight between the past and the present. I love when I can follow their paths from the beginning.
The interaction between the characters is beautiful, sweet but due to some events become tumultuous.
This book presented us with love, friendship, kindness as well as heartache, deceive and abandon. There were parts of this book that I've cried so much that I had to stop reading for a sec. One second I wanted to slap these two, let's talk about some stubborn guys, but there were other parts that I wanted to hold them and let them know that everything would be alright.
Jesus Kat what a book this was. Let's talk about an intense story. But I need to know what's next?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
February 22, 2018
Emotionally beautiful!
Vladimir by Kat Mizera pulled at my heart strings, it was a great second chance romance. It is book nine in the Sidewinders series, but it can be read as a standalone. As someone who has read every book in this series I highly recommend it! I loved it!
Vladimir Kolnikov, a hockey player for the Las Vegas Sidewinders made a huge mistake walking away from the woman he was madly in love with. The day Vlad was set to marry Rachel Kennedy, a very successful actress, he has a panic attack and leaves her at the altar to go in search of answers. Vlad doesn’t feel like he deserves someone as wonderful as Rachel without fully understanding his past, and where he came from.
I loved the fact that the book went from the present to the past. We get smacked with Vlad leaving Rachel at the altar in the first chapter. So of course Vlad had to redeem himself, and he does throughout all the past interactions. We get to see their relationship bloom, and we get to fall in love with them as a couple, but also as individuals.
Their relationship is almost perfect and then it falls apart. It takes some time to get back to what they had before Vlad walked away from Rachel, but they eventually get there. Vlad was looking for answers in Russia and Rachel was just trying to understand and move on. But how do you move on from the person you are meant to be with. The Sidewinders played a very important role in this book, not only were they there for Vlad but they were also there for Rachel during one of the most difficult times of her life.
One of my favorite things about Kats books is the secondary characters. She has a way of always incorporating them into each book without taking away from the main characters. Again if you have not read the rest of the series I highly recommend it! You will love Vladimir that much more! Kat never disappoints, I loved this book and can not wait to read the next installment in the Sidewinders series.
Vladimir by Kat Mizera pulled at my heart strings, it was a great second chance romance. It is book nine in the Sidewinders series, but it can be read as a standalone. As someone who has read every book in this series I highly recommend it! I loved it!
Vladimir Kolnikov, a hockey player for the Las Vegas Sidewinders made a huge mistake walking away from the woman he was madly in love with. The day Vlad was set to marry Rachel Kennedy, a very successful actress, he has a panic attack and leaves her at the altar to go in search of answers. Vlad doesn’t feel like he deserves someone as wonderful as Rachel without fully understanding his past, and where he came from.
I loved the fact that the book went from the present to the past. We get smacked with Vlad leaving Rachel at the altar in the first chapter. So of course Vlad had to redeem himself, and he does throughout all the past interactions. We get to see their relationship bloom, and we get to fall in love with them as a couple, but also as individuals.
Their relationship is almost perfect and then it falls apart. It takes some time to get back to what they had before Vlad walked away from Rachel, but they eventually get there. Vlad was looking for answers in Russia and Rachel was just trying to understand and move on. But how do you move on from the person you are meant to be with. The Sidewinders played a very important role in this book, not only were they there for Vlad but they were also there for Rachel during one of the most difficult times of her life.
One of my favorite things about Kats books is the secondary characters. She has a way of always incorporating them into each book without taking away from the main characters. Again if you have not read the rest of the series I highly recommend it! You will love Vladimir that much more! Kat never disappoints, I loved this book and can not wait to read the next installment in the Sidewinders series.
February 19, 2018
Vladimir: Las Vegas Sidewinders (Book 9) by Kat Mizera
I was waiting for this book to be released. I’m a huge fan of the Sidewinders series created by Kat. She has been able to draw me into the sports romance genre. For several books now we have heard about Vlad and Rachel, so I was very excited to read this. Rest assured it did not disappoint and is full of surprises.
Within the pages of this latest read the complexity of the dynamic between the characters becomes apparent very quickly. The situations our beloved characters find themselves in would cause anyone to fall apart. There were sections during reading that I experience extreme sadness, anger and then this overwhelming need to take both those characters over my knee. The rollercoaster of emotions was worth every minute of this read.
If you remember Rachel is the lead actress on a hit show called Vampire Legend. The same series Ashleigh has a part on, yep the main character from Brock. She is very happy and looking forward to her wedding to Vlad except he leaves her standing at the altar. This has caused Rachel to spiral into self-doubt and then find out some very disturbing new that causes her to be more alone then she has ever been.
Then there is Vlad young strong hockey player for the Sidewinders and having self-doubt issues as well. His anxiety caused him to go down a path of self-discovery that takes him back to Russia. He is willing to leave the women he loves at the altar, leave his teammates wonder what is going on and heads out of the country. What can be that pressing he must do it this moment? Is it going to be worth risking everything to get the answers he seeks? You are going to have to read to find out.
As always I thoroughly enjoyed reading this latest installment by Kat. She never ceases to entertain and keep me engaged with her books. I highly recommend this entire series.
https://www.amazon.com/Las-Vegas-Side...
I was waiting for this book to be released. I’m a huge fan of the Sidewinders series created by Kat. She has been able to draw me into the sports romance genre. For several books now we have heard about Vlad and Rachel, so I was very excited to read this. Rest assured it did not disappoint and is full of surprises.
Within the pages of this latest read the complexity of the dynamic between the characters becomes apparent very quickly. The situations our beloved characters find themselves in would cause anyone to fall apart. There were sections during reading that I experience extreme sadness, anger and then this overwhelming need to take both those characters over my knee. The rollercoaster of emotions was worth every minute of this read.
If you remember Rachel is the lead actress on a hit show called Vampire Legend. The same series Ashleigh has a part on, yep the main character from Brock. She is very happy and looking forward to her wedding to Vlad except he leaves her standing at the altar. This has caused Rachel to spiral into self-doubt and then find out some very disturbing new that causes her to be more alone then she has ever been.
Then there is Vlad young strong hockey player for the Sidewinders and having self-doubt issues as well. His anxiety caused him to go down a path of self-discovery that takes him back to Russia. He is willing to leave the women he loves at the altar, leave his teammates wonder what is going on and heads out of the country. What can be that pressing he must do it this moment? Is it going to be worth risking everything to get the answers he seeks? You are going to have to read to find out.
As always I thoroughly enjoyed reading this latest installment by Kat. She never ceases to entertain and keep me engaged with her books. I highly recommend this entire series.
https://www.amazon.com/Las-Vegas-Side...
February 22, 2018
This book was packed with emotion. It's pulled at my heartstrings at times and also broke my heart at times. With everything that Vlad and Rachel go through I just want them to get their HEA. It's a tough journey for Vlad and Rachel. There is a happy twist in this book. One that I felt was very fitting. Over all an emotional story that will leave your heart happy sighing by the end.
February 21, 2018
Kat Mizera scores with VLADIMIR, the ninth book in the Sidewinders series. NHL star Vladimir Kolnikov stands up actress Rachel Kennedy at the altar, needing to discover his past back in Russian where he grew up an orphanage. This contemporary sports romance is suitable for adult audiences.
I loved this book. I read a lot of hockey romances. This one took on a new twist. I enjoyed the Russian hockey perspective. I recently watched RED ARMY directed by Gabe Polsky. I think that put me in the perfect mindset for this novel.
I like how Vlad and Rachel meet. I love that they have the same birthday. They both deal with one thing after the other throughout this story. They can’t seem to catch any breaks. They both become stronger for it.
Kat Mizera does an amazing job with both the plot and character development in VLADIMIR. The story was original, with interesting twists. I like Toli’s involvement in the novel. I love that Jamie Teller played an important role in this story, along with the rest of the Sidewinders crew. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
I loved this book. I read a lot of hockey romances. This one took on a new twist. I enjoyed the Russian hockey perspective. I recently watched RED ARMY directed by Gabe Polsky. I think that put me in the perfect mindset for this novel.
I like how Vlad and Rachel meet. I love that they have the same birthday. They both deal with one thing after the other throughout this story. They can’t seem to catch any breaks. They both become stronger for it.
Kat Mizera does an amazing job with both the plot and character development in VLADIMIR. The story was original, with interesting twists. I like Toli’s involvement in the novel. I love that Jamie Teller played an important role in this story, along with the rest of the Sidewinders crew. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
February 14, 2018
In life there are moments of glory and instances of courage. It's hard to know which one is headed in our direction and how we'll react to the challenge. For Vlad and Rachel the road to happiness is paved in pot holes. Will they survive the twists life hurls their way? Kat Mizera has a gift for seduction. Her stories sizzle with heat, but Vladimir goes a step further and breaks your heart. Through the maze of unanswered questions and heartbreaking choices, Vladimir is a story of survival. It's about beating the odds in the real world and inspiring others to do the same.
March 2, 2018
the first novel form the Las Vegas Sidewinders i read from Kat Mizera was Jamie's story. It was a story that made me really think about the cruelty of people, about tolerance and friendships. Especially about love and how far you'll go to make your dreams, needs, wants and fantasies come true. It was also a book that stayed with me even through the countless others that came after it.
Vladimir gave me back the sense of family and friendship that i had through jamie's story, and at the same time made me catch up with past and new characters. While i haven't read all of the books in this series, i knew who Vladimir and Rachel were, had a few passages about them here and there, so i was generally excited to get their story.
Even with my excitement, i was far from ready to know Vladimir's past - to know what he's been through and what he was hiding, even finding out things he wasn't even aware was in his past. My heart broke for Rachel - i can't even begin to fully comprehend what she's going through but boy did i hope for the best.
Kat Mizera has a great way of bringing her stories to life - to make you invested in wanting to know what'll happen to the couples and going through all the emotions as the characters feel them as well.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books
Contact Us Today: smallgirlandherbooks@gmail.com
February 19, 2018
Vladimir Kolnikov seems to have hit the lottery. He’s a rising NHL star that is about to marry his hollywood sweetheart . . .so when he has a panic attack in the parking lot an hour before his wedding and leaves his fiance at the altar, she is stunned right along with their friends and teammates. He finds himself back in Russia looking for answers about his past . . . someone has to know something about his parents. He can’t contemplate a real future with Rachel when he knows nothing about where he came from.
Rachel Kennedy, star of the hit tv show Vampire Hunter is madly in love with Vlad. But, she’s left with a church full of guests and only a text message from Vlad telling her he loves her and is sorry. She’s hurt by his betrayal and has to find a way to move on. Unfortunately, life isn’t ready to give her any sense of stability or happiness right now and she is knocked completely down by a devastating medical diagnosis. How is she supposed to handle all that life is throwing at her on her own?
As Vlad struggles to find his past, Rachel is struggling to have a future. Both need each other, but Vlad’s walking away on the day of their wedding has placed an almost insurmountable chasm between them. Will Vlad finally realize his past isn’t as important as his future before it’s too late? And, will Rachel be able to heal both physically and emotionally from the betrayal of not only Vladimir but her body as well?
Kat Mizera truly takes readers on an emotional journey through the pages of this book. This couple really seems to be on the precipice of their happy ever after when everything starts going awry. I could appreciate Vlad feeling lost without knowing anything about where he came from, but I also couldn’t believe he walked away from Rachel on their wedding day. His trip to Russia really only leaves him with more questions and left me frustrated and wanting to throw my kindle at times over his inability to see what was truly important in his life.
Rachel’s character was beautifully written. She shows amazing strength through her ordeal and, honestly I was heartbroken that she had to go through it without Vlad. I loved that Kat brings back someone from Rachel’s past to help her emotionally as she recovers. Her relationship with Jamie Teller is amazing and I adore the strong friendship that has grown from their failed romantic relationship. There were a few times where I also wanted to toss my kindle at Rachel, as she is just as stubborn as Vlad . . .these two are truly meant for one another.
Watching this couple struggle to find their way back to a possible happy ever after was heartbreaking and emotional and I loved every minute of it! There are also a few very shocking surprises in this book that will leave fans of the series feeling shell shocked. 5 stars!
Rachel Kennedy, star of the hit tv show Vampire Hunter is madly in love with Vlad. But, she’s left with a church full of guests and only a text message from Vlad telling her he loves her and is sorry. She’s hurt by his betrayal and has to find a way to move on. Unfortunately, life isn’t ready to give her any sense of stability or happiness right now and she is knocked completely down by a devastating medical diagnosis. How is she supposed to handle all that life is throwing at her on her own?
As Vlad struggles to find his past, Rachel is struggling to have a future. Both need each other, but Vlad’s walking away on the day of their wedding has placed an almost insurmountable chasm between them. Will Vlad finally realize his past isn’t as important as his future before it’s too late? And, will Rachel be able to heal both physically and emotionally from the betrayal of not only Vladimir but her body as well?
Kat Mizera truly takes readers on an emotional journey through the pages of this book. This couple really seems to be on the precipice of their happy ever after when everything starts going awry. I could appreciate Vlad feeling lost without knowing anything about where he came from, but I also couldn’t believe he walked away from Rachel on their wedding day. His trip to Russia really only leaves him with more questions and left me frustrated and wanting to throw my kindle at times over his inability to see what was truly important in his life.
Rachel’s character was beautifully written. She shows amazing strength through her ordeal and, honestly I was heartbroken that she had to go through it without Vlad. I loved that Kat brings back someone from Rachel’s past to help her emotionally as she recovers. Her relationship with Jamie Teller is amazing and I adore the strong friendship that has grown from their failed romantic relationship. There were a few times where I also wanted to toss my kindle at Rachel, as she is just as stubborn as Vlad . . .these two are truly meant for one another.
Watching this couple struggle to find their way back to a possible happy ever after was heartbreaking and emotional and I loved every minute of it! There are also a few very shocking surprises in this book that will leave fans of the series feeling shell shocked. 5 stars!
February 19, 2018
The story starts with the wedding of hockey player Vladimir Kolnikov and actress Rachel Kennedy. While everyone is in the Chapel waiting, Vlad is sitting in his car in front of the hotel, having a panic attack. He is wondering how he ever came to this point when he came from nothing, feeling like a fraud (hockey star marrying TV star). So instead of talking to anyone about his panic, he hops on a plane to Russia to go back to his beginnings in an orphanage, thinking he needs to know more about his past before he can start a future with Rachel.
Left at the altar with a text from Vlad saying he loves her but isn’t ready to be the man she deserves, she faces over 400 people and is totally humiliated. Vlad’s friends are angry at him and nobody really knows where he went or why.
The book switches from the present to the past, showing how Vlad and Rachel’s relationship formed and grew, and I actually liked that format. I had a hard time understanding how Vlad was unable to voice his fears before the wedding, especially since they could have gone to Russia together to search for information about his parents.
Growing up in an orphanage, Vlad is socially hampered in his relationships with others. After a few years with the Sidewinders, he is only close to Brock and Toli, partly because he moved to the U.S only speaking Russian. Opening up to Rachel is a new experience, before her all he had known were one night stands.
I liked seeing so much of Jamie in this story, he is one of my favorites. Toli is another favorite, but he seemed a little different in this book, maybe because his English has gotten so much better. He is still my number one fav.
I don’t think I will ever like Vlad as much as the other guys in this series. I just didn’t really understand how he would risk everything in an attempt to find out who left him at the church as an infant and why. Wanting to know? That I can understand. Risking everything that is important to him to know right at the moment? No, but maybe it was his youth.
I reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the author.
Left at the altar with a text from Vlad saying he loves her but isn’t ready to be the man she deserves, she faces over 400 people and is totally humiliated. Vlad’s friends are angry at him and nobody really knows where he went or why.
The book switches from the present to the past, showing how Vlad and Rachel’s relationship formed and grew, and I actually liked that format. I had a hard time understanding how Vlad was unable to voice his fears before the wedding, especially since they could have gone to Russia together to search for information about his parents.
Growing up in an orphanage, Vlad is socially hampered in his relationships with others. After a few years with the Sidewinders, he is only close to Brock and Toli, partly because he moved to the U.S only speaking Russian. Opening up to Rachel is a new experience, before her all he had known were one night stands.
I liked seeing so much of Jamie in this story, he is one of my favorites. Toli is another favorite, but he seemed a little different in this book, maybe because his English has gotten so much better. He is still my number one fav.
I don’t think I will ever like Vlad as much as the other guys in this series. I just didn’t really understand how he would risk everything in an attempt to find out who left him at the church as an infant and why. Wanting to know? That I can understand. Risking everything that is important to him to know right at the moment? No, but maybe it was his youth.
I reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the author.
July 18, 2018
Boy this book took me on one emotion filled journey. When Vlad left Rachel at the alter I wondered how he, and the author, would convince me to forgive him. Forgive him I did and it wasn't long before I was hoping and praying that Rachel would forgive him too.
After the wedding debacle, the book takes us back to when Vlad and Rachel met. I think this was necessary in order for us to know and understand Vlad. The story then continues to move forward and backwards in time, which I have found irritating in other books but here it worked really well. The jumps weren't too frequent, they were always clearly labelled and they wove important facts/emotions/actions into the story as and when they were needed.
Before Vlad can return and start to put right the damage he has caused, life throws a curve ball that knocks Rachel for six. So just as one character starts to get their head straight, the other begins to unravel emotionally. I really liked both the main characters, although I felt more connected to Vlad.
Rachel and Vlad were immensely likeable, both very human in the foolish decisions they took and yet this only made them more believable. The path they travelled to get to their HEA made this book feel just a bit different to so many others of the same genre and gave it a unique feel.
Whilst I've read most of the Sidewinders books, I haven't read them in order. This book can easily be read as a standalone. If you read and enjoy this I would recommend reading Temptation's Inferno. This is Jamie and Viggo's story, it is a lot steamier than Vladimir but is an amazing book.
After the wedding debacle, the book takes us back to when Vlad and Rachel met. I think this was necessary in order for us to know and understand Vlad. The story then continues to move forward and backwards in time, which I have found irritating in other books but here it worked really well. The jumps weren't too frequent, they were always clearly labelled and they wove important facts/emotions/actions into the story as and when they were needed.
Before Vlad can return and start to put right the damage he has caused, life throws a curve ball that knocks Rachel for six. So just as one character starts to get their head straight, the other begins to unravel emotionally. I really liked both the main characters, although I felt more connected to Vlad.
Rachel and Vlad were immensely likeable, both very human in the foolish decisions they took and yet this only made them more believable. The path they travelled to get to their HEA made this book feel just a bit different to so many others of the same genre and gave it a unique feel.
Whilst I've read most of the Sidewinders books, I haven't read them in order. This book can easily be read as a standalone. If you read and enjoy this I would recommend reading Temptation's Inferno. This is Jamie and Viggo's story, it is a lot steamier than Vladimir but is an amazing book.
February 23, 2018
Vladimir: Las Vegas Sidewinders by Kat Mizera is book 9 in the series, yet it's a complete standalone. This is Vladimir and Rachel’s story. And I was sooooo excited to get my hands on it!!
The book starts off at Vlad and Rachel's wedding. When Vlad has a panic attack because of his past, it effects his future. And Rachel is left blindsided, and devastated when Vlad just leaves her at the altar with a text. Vlad wants answers to his past, growing up in a Russian orphanage. So he heads back home to Russia for answers, while Rachel is left to pick up the pieces of her shattered heart. Then Rachel faces something most challenging, a truly gut wrenching decision to be made health wise.
Kat Mizera has a way of sucking you into her stories. Her characters always have such deep strong connections to one another. And Rachel and Vlad are no different. I felt Kat told their story PERFECTLY! This book is not only a story of loss, it's a story of hope, of love. I can't wait to read more of these Sidewinders!!!
*I voluntarily read an advance copy from the author. This is my honest review.*
February 22, 2018
Vladimir by Kat Mizera is an emotional tale that takes you on a journey with two people who've been hurt. Vladimir went in a direction I never expected it to but I really enjoyed it. There were a few times throughout the story I wanted to smack some sense into both Vlad and Rachel because damn these two can be frustrating. Even though these characters are celebrities, we see both their public and personal sides and how being a celebrity effects their relationship and their choices. I loved that aspect of the story and enjoyed the flow of the authors writing which flipped back and forth in time and both of our leads POV. Even though Vladimir is the ninth in her Las Vegas Sidewinders series it can be read as a standalone and still be enjoyed. I'm sure you'll want to read the others right after it. 5 "New Years Eve" Stars for Vladimir by Kat Mizera
*** Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Reads - ARC provided for an honest review ***
*** Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Reads - ARC provided for an honest review ***
July 4, 2019
Kat writes very original stories and the very best in hockey romance. I really enjoyed the perspective of both a Russian hockey player and an actress. With him we went back to Russia to learn some things. And with her story she has major health issues after he leaves her at the altar at their wedding. Very interesting!!
February 22, 2018
I really liked this book. It took a few chapters to get immersed into it, but once it happened, I couldn’t wait to find out what would happen to Vlad and Rachel. After a called off wedding leaves both of them with broken hearts, Vlad goes home to Russia to find out about his past. When he gets back, he tries to get Rachel to forgive him, but she has been dealing with her own issues. Will their love be enough??
I haven’t read the other books in this series, so it was great that this could be read as a stand alone. I recommend this book.
I haven’t read the other books in this series, so it was great that this could be read as a stand alone. I recommend this book.
February 22, 2018
4 pucking good stars.
I love the Sidewinders, there’s no denying it, but this book was very different than the rest. There’s definitely moments that added up to me going through a box of tissues, but every moment was worth it for Vlad and Rachel’s HEA.
In true Sidewinders fashion, there were twists thrown it that made me do a double take. Did I just read that? No... yes, yes I did. And it was grand!
I loved the whole adventure that this book took me on, it was one hell of a roller coaster.
*Honest Review in exchange for ARC*
I love the Sidewinders, there’s no denying it, but this book was very different than the rest. There’s definitely moments that added up to me going through a box of tissues, but every moment was worth it for Vlad and Rachel’s HEA.
In true Sidewinders fashion, there were twists thrown it that made me do a double take. Did I just read that? No... yes, yes I did. And it was grand!
I loved the whole adventure that this book took me on, it was one hell of a roller coaster.
*Honest Review in exchange for ARC*
February 22, 2018
Gimme, gimme more from this author and I'm on cloud nine...
Kat Mizera has this effect on me. I mean, every new book and I'm always eager to read non stop and get more from her. Amazing right?
Her writing is hot, intense, sweet and sometimes wild, just the way I like it.
Vladimir is her latest release and it's the ninth book from the Sidewinders series. Let me just say that I've started this backwords....
This books explores the lifes of Vladimir and Rachel.
Vladimir wasn't always a famous hockey player. He grew up in an orphanage. Today he's a happy man, getting ready to get married to the love of his life but when the day arrives, his void to know where he came from and all the questions that keep hunting him made him left his bride at the altar.
Rachael only found out true happiness the day Vladimir entered her life. She's more happy than the could have imagine and is about to get married but when her fiance up and left she saw her world crumbling down.
And now what will happen? Can they find what they are seeking? Can she forgive?
Jesus... This book is amazing.
The plot is amazing, super engaging and heartfelt. One of the things that attracted me more was the fact that we had an insight between the past and the present. I love when I can follow their paths from the beginning.
The interaction between the characters is beautiful, sweet but due to some events become tumultuous.
This book presented us with love, friendship, kindness as well as heartache, deceive and abandon. There were parts of this book that I've cried so much that I had to stop reading for a sec. One second I wanted to slap these two, let's talk about some stubborn guys, but there were other parts that I wanted to hold them and let them know that everything would be alright.
Jesus Kat what a book this was. Let's talk about an intense story. But I need to know what's next?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. (
Kat Mizera has this effect on me. I mean, every new book and I'm always eager to read non stop and get more from her. Amazing right?
Her writing is hot, intense, sweet and sometimes wild, just the way I like it.
Vladimir is her latest release and it's the ninth book from the Sidewinders series. Let me just say that I've started this backwords....
This books explores the lifes of Vladimir and Rachel.
Vladimir wasn't always a famous hockey player. He grew up in an orphanage. Today he's a happy man, getting ready to get married to the love of his life but when the day arrives, his void to know where he came from and all the questions that keep hunting him made him left his bride at the altar.
Rachael only found out true happiness the day Vladimir entered her life. She's more happy than the could have imagine and is about to get married but when her fiance up and left she saw her world crumbling down.
And now what will happen? Can they find what they are seeking? Can she forgive?
Jesus... This book is amazing.
The plot is amazing, super engaging and heartfelt. One of the things that attracted me more was the fact that we had an insight between the past and the present. I love when I can follow their paths from the beginning.
The interaction between the characters is beautiful, sweet but due to some events become tumultuous.
This book presented us with love, friendship, kindness as well as heartache, deceive and abandon. There were parts of this book that I've cried so much that I had to stop reading for a sec. One second I wanted to slap these two, let's talk about some stubborn guys, but there were other parts that I wanted to hold them and let them know that everything would be alright.
Jesus Kat what a book this was. Let's talk about an intense story. But I need to know what's next?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. (
February 21, 2018
You know those books where you want to smack the characters and throw your kindle, but the story is just so darn good you can’t put it down? That exactly how I felt while reading this. I *should* have been so mad at their stubbornness I stopped reading, but Kat Mizera so beautifully wrote Vlad and Rachel’s story I couldn’t stop myself from being totally sucked in.
Bouncing between the present and past for the good first half of the book you’re able to fully see the sweet love that exists between this two stubborn souls. I usually don’t enjoy going back and forth between two time periods like that, but this was so flawlessly done and added a whole different level to Rachel and Vlad that I actually really loved it. Vlad had me feeling all kinds of things, on one hand he was incredibly sweet and truly romantic, on the other he made one of the dumbest moves a man could make and then proceeded to be too stubborn for his own good.
Truthfully though Rachel was exactly the same in that stubborn regard, so it balanced out. These two had so many hills, complete with twists and turns, to climb it was heartbreaking at times, but the strength of their love was unending. Even with all that happens they still manage to have such a sweet romance i had no choice but to love their story.
Bouncing between the present and past for the good first half of the book you’re able to fully see the sweet love that exists between this two stubborn souls. I usually don’t enjoy going back and forth between two time periods like that, but this was so flawlessly done and added a whole different level to Rachel and Vlad that I actually really loved it. Vlad had me feeling all kinds of things, on one hand he was incredibly sweet and truly romantic, on the other he made one of the dumbest moves a man could make and then proceeded to be too stubborn for his own good.
Truthfully though Rachel was exactly the same in that stubborn regard, so it balanced out. These two had so many hills, complete with twists and turns, to climb it was heartbreaking at times, but the strength of their love was unending. Even with all that happens they still manage to have such a sweet romance i had no choice but to love their story.
February 22, 2018
OMG Vlad shattered my heart, I LOVED how this book starts with him having a panic attack right on the cusp
of his wedding to Rachel Kennedy (who we know from being Jamie's ex girlfriend) a famous actress and
the LOVE of Vlad's life. But Vlad feels that he is not good enough for Rachel because he grew up in an
orphanage in Russia. Vlad leaves and goes back to Russia to find answers. Rachel is shattered she cannot
believe that Vlad did this to her. OMG and top of him abandoning her she has a huge life changing medical condition
This book was written so that not only are we in the present time but we also get glimpses into the past of
Vlad and Rachel's courtship. How they met and came together. AND OMG Toli he is one of my favorite Sidewinders
and I LOVED how he helps Vlad through his journey. Kat has a way in sucking you into this "family's" life you feel
a deep connection to all her characters and want only to see them finally find what they are looking for in life.
I cannot wait to continue this series
of his wedding to Rachel Kennedy (who we know from being Jamie's ex girlfriend) a famous actress and
the LOVE of Vlad's life. But Vlad feels that he is not good enough for Rachel because he grew up in an
orphanage in Russia. Vlad leaves and goes back to Russia to find answers. Rachel is shattered she cannot
believe that Vlad did this to her. OMG and top of him abandoning her she has a huge life changing medical condition
This book was written so that not only are we in the present time but we also get glimpses into the past of
Vlad and Rachel's courtship. How they met and came together. AND OMG Toli he is one of my favorite Sidewinders
and I LOVED how he helps Vlad through his journey. Kat has a way in sucking you into this "family's" life you feel
a deep connection to all her characters and want only to see them finally find what they are looking for in life.
I cannot wait to continue this series
February 22, 2018
I love second chance romances and I really enjoyed this book. Vladimir and Rachel are such an amazing couple. I was irritated with Vlad for leaving Rachel with just a text message and taking off. But he really redeemed himself in the end. My heart broke for Rachel and everything she had to go through. I can understand her pain and anger but I was also irritated with the amount of times she pushed Vlad away. That is how he helped redeem himself though, by not letting her push him away. I enjoyed getting bits and pieces of their past through the beginning of the book. And I loved, LOVED that the author really brought out Vlad's Russian accent, especially during the first few months of their relationship. I first met this couple when I read Brock's book so I was excited to get the chance to read about Vlad and Rachel. They didn't disappoint. *I voluntarily read an advanced copy for an honest review.*
February 23, 2018
While reading Vladimir, I experienced the whole range of emotions. Vlad walks away from the woman he loves on the the worst day imaginable, their wedding day. Not because he doesn't want to marry her but because he needs to know who he really is. Rachel, the actress left behind at the altar is devastated. But the hits don't stop there for Rachel. Can Vlad find himself and then can he win back the love of his life?
We get to see Vlad and Rachel and how they fell in love but we also see Vlad work to redeem himself in Rachel’s eyes. I loved Vlad and Rachel as a couple and as individuals. I am not sure that I would be able to forgive Vlad for leaving the way he did, but how do you move on otherwise.
This book, being a part of the Sidewinders series, you get to see the other Sidewinders characters in Vlad and Rachel’s book. You can never have too many Sidewinders. But on the other hand you don't need to have read the other books to understand the story. Bravo as always Kat!
We get to see Vlad and Rachel and how they fell in love but we also see Vlad work to redeem himself in Rachel’s eyes. I loved Vlad and Rachel as a couple and as individuals. I am not sure that I would be able to forgive Vlad for leaving the way he did, but how do you move on otherwise.
This book, being a part of the Sidewinders series, you get to see the other Sidewinders characters in Vlad and Rachel’s book. You can never have too many Sidewinders. But on the other hand you don't need to have read the other books to understand the story. Bravo as always Kat!
February 22, 2018
This is the second story I've read in Sidewinders Series by Kat Mizera and I am just so enthralled with this author's writing. I can't wait to go back and read the other books because she writes with such heart and passion. I also like that the stories are standalones so you're not forced into reading them in order.
I knew from the blurb that this was going to be a deep, intense story and it was, but it was sooo good. I liked the way the author did the first chapter, then went back to tell the story. I got buried into the plot and couldn't put it down. I really became vested with Vlad and Rachel. Their characters were full of emotion and turmoil and I really enjoyed being able to go through their relationship from the beginning. I was so sad for Rachel but I understood that Vlad had so many unanswered questions about himself.
Kat Mizera is an excellent story teller and I'm so glad I discovered this series.
I knew from the blurb that this was going to be a deep, intense story and it was, but it was sooo good. I liked the way the author did the first chapter, then went back to tell the story. I got buried into the plot and couldn't put it down. I really became vested with Vlad and Rachel. Their characters were full of emotion and turmoil and I really enjoyed being able to go through their relationship from the beginning. I was so sad for Rachel but I understood that Vlad had so many unanswered questions about himself.
Kat Mizera is an excellent story teller and I'm so glad I discovered this series.
February 18, 2018
This is the second book I have read in this series, and I am now dying to read the rest. I love sports romance. There was a bit of sports in this, but not much playing action. However the sports politics were involved and of course the team comradeship played a large part.
The first half of the book flipped back and forth between the past and present. I usually dont like this, but it was worked in very well. This book is not a typical romance in that we see them meet and fall in love and get married. This started off with an almost wedding and we need the past chapter in order to see how their relationship was built.
You definitely get the feels in this book. Especially when Vlad goes to Russia and when Rachel talks with Jamie (I need his story). I was very close to real tears at some points of this book. Even though this book is more emotional than romance, the steaminess level is still there. It is not at the forefront (which I like), but it is still there.
The only reason I gave it 4 stars was that I think I am a little more vindictive than Rachel. I wanted Vlad to grovel and pay a bit more for what he did and for what she had to go through on her own.
The first half of the book flipped back and forth between the past and present. I usually dont like this, but it was worked in very well. This book is not a typical romance in that we see them meet and fall in love and get married. This started off with an almost wedding and we need the past chapter in order to see how their relationship was built.
You definitely get the feels in this book. Especially when Vlad goes to Russia and when Rachel talks with Jamie (I need his story). I was very close to real tears at some points of this book. Even though this book is more emotional than romance, the steaminess level is still there. It is not at the forefront (which I like), but it is still there.
The only reason I gave it 4 stars was that I think I am a little more vindictive than Rachel. I wanted Vlad to grovel and pay a bit more for what he did and for what she had to go through on her own.
February 21, 2018
Reviewed on behalf of http://bookaddict.live,
Vladimir is slightly different from the normal type of Sports Romance we used to. When Vlad meets Rachel it was almost love at first sight. Everything appears to be moving so well until Vladimir does the unthinkable. This is told in dual pov using flashbacks of the relationship. Vladimir loved Rachel, but did not feel good enough because off his feeling of abandonment after being left by his mother as baby.
So Vladimir goes the Russia to found out why he was deserted as baby.
While Vladimir is finding himself, life has kicked Rachel in the teeth, and Vlad going was only the beginning. That’s all I am saying as you need to read this intense and complicated romance.
This book has complicated emotional content and you can’t help being pulled into the story. So get your tissues out you going to need them.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Vladimir is slightly different from the normal type of Sports Romance we used to. When Vlad meets Rachel it was almost love at first sight. Everything appears to be moving so well until Vladimir does the unthinkable. This is told in dual pov using flashbacks of the relationship. Vladimir loved Rachel, but did not feel good enough because off his feeling of abandonment after being left by his mother as baby.
So Vladimir goes the Russia to found out why he was deserted as baby.
While Vladimir is finding himself, life has kicked Rachel in the teeth, and Vlad going was only the beginning. That’s all I am saying as you need to read this intense and complicated romance.
This book has complicated emotional content and you can’t help being pulled into the story. So get your tissues out you going to need them.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 22, 2018
I am so excited that we get Vlad's book finally! I love this Russian teddy bear! We also get to know Rachel better in this book. Being that this is their story, and we all know of the curse about the Sidewinders, we can expect nothing less than some harrowing bits here and there. Will this be the story where love does not triumph? What happens when Vlad goes back to Russia? Why does he go? What happens? After he returns just after the start of the training season, what happens? There were a lot of twists and turns in this book, and I won't say what happens, but know this....be prepared for the ride of your life in reading this book. I have loved all of the Sidewinders books so far, but this one totally takes the cake!
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M. Brennan.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M. Brennan.
February 22, 2018
Loved! Loved! Loved It!
Vladimir is the 9th book in the Las Vegas Sidewinders series. It was fantastic! I loved it!
It was an emotional roller coaster ride that I’m glad I was on!
This is Vlad and Rachel’s story.
The story goes back and forth between past and present telling how they met and fell in love.
The day they were to get married Vlad had a panic attack and ran off leaving her at the alter.
Vlad has demons from his past that he has to face before he can move on with his future. He hurts Rachel in the process.
This story has a lot of twists and turns and many secrets!
I love the way Kat includes the secondary characters in every one of the Sidewinders stories! It makes for a very interesting story!
I love the Las Vegas Sidewinders series and I can’t wait for the next book in the Las Vegas Sidewinders series!
Vladimir is the 9th book in the Las Vegas Sidewinders series. It was fantastic! I loved it!
It was an emotional roller coaster ride that I’m glad I was on!
This is Vlad and Rachel’s story.
The story goes back and forth between past and present telling how they met and fell in love.
The day they were to get married Vlad had a panic attack and ran off leaving her at the alter.
Vlad has demons from his past that he has to face before he can move on with his future. He hurts Rachel in the process.
This story has a lot of twists and turns and many secrets!
I love the way Kat includes the secondary characters in every one of the Sidewinders stories! It makes for a very interesting story!
I love the Las Vegas Sidewinders series and I can’t wait for the next book in the Las Vegas Sidewinders series!
February 21, 2018
4.5 Star Review by Jodi for Ruby Red Romance Review
I really enjoyed this book. It was well written and kept me wanting more from Vlad and Rachel. I sympathized with Rachel and all she went through. Not being left, but other things. There were times that I wanted to kick Vlad in the balls. No, I'm not kidding...if he was real, I would have.
I gave this book 4.5 stars because I felt it went on a little longer than it should. I lost interest in parts. Not because I didn't like it, but because I felt there were things that weren't relevant. All in all, it was a good read. Vlad ended up redeeming himself, in the end. I love how tough Rachel was, but sometimes I just wanted her to make a decision and stick with it. Kat Mizera did a great job with this story. Who doesn't love a great hockey story? Please check it out.
I really enjoyed this book. It was well written and kept me wanting more from Vlad and Rachel. I sympathized with Rachel and all she went through. Not being left, but other things. There were times that I wanted to kick Vlad in the balls. No, I'm not kidding...if he was real, I would have.
I gave this book 4.5 stars because I felt it went on a little longer than it should. I lost interest in parts. Not because I didn't like it, but because I felt there were things that weren't relevant. All in all, it was a good read. Vlad ended up redeeming himself, in the end. I love how tough Rachel was, but sometimes I just wanted her to make a decision and stick with it. Kat Mizera did a great job with this story. Who doesn't love a great hockey story? Please check it out.
November 23, 2022
These 2 were a hot mess, with big issues at different times. It's a testament to their relationship that they managed to work things out in the end, but not before a lot of hurt and bad feelings. Each of them had to get their own mind straight first before they could really talk things over with the other. I liked that despite the hurt and bad feelings each of them kept a door open for the other, that they kept coming back to each other. I also liked how their friends separately supported each of them, while slyly giving dirt to the other. I really liked how Vlad and Toli's relationship solidified. It was nice to see how this book nicely bookended with the same event, the last time with a happier ending.
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