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Opposites attract…and ignite.

On the ice, Justin Perry is always in control. As one of the Reading Redtails’ best defensemen, he plays with an intense focus and skates like he was born on blades. Off the ice, he’s content to keep his head down and his eyes on the prize: a spot on an NHL team. Except when Vivi Martin’s around. She’s bright, bold and beautiful and Justin can’t make himself look away.
Vivi can’t help but notice Justin’s interest and, yeah, she’s not immune to his awkward charm or his grin that steals her breath. But falling for another athlete who will only leave and break her heart is the last thing she needs. Been there, done that. No t-shirt required. She’s too busy working three part-time jobs to make ends meet while figuring out how to use her passion for photography to build a career.
Until Vivi gets a peek at what’s underneath Justin’s boy-scout exterior and discovers a tattooed hunk who rocks her world with a kiss. She’d be a fool to pass up a chance to get him in her bed....and in front of her camera. And Vivi’s no fool.
But when a career-focused hockey player pursues a free spirit who’s built a fortress of ice around her bruised heart, Justin’s going to have to step up and take his best shot to break through Vivi’s walls...and hope it doesn’t shatter them both.

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Published January 14, 2019

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About the author

Stephanie Julian

139 books1,023 followers
Stephanie Julian is a USA Today and New York Time best-selling author of contemporary and paranormal romance. She writes stories with sultry heat and sweet heart.

She is the author of the best-selling Salon Games and Indecent series. INVITE ME IN (previously published as BY PRIVATE INVITATION) was an RT Magazine Top Pick. AN INDECENT PROPOSITION was named by BookBub as one of the 20 Best Erotic Books.

Stephanie is happily married to a Springsteen fanatic and the mother of two hairy sons.

Find out why reviewers call Stephanie's stories "fascinating," "truly fantastic," "intoxicating," "highly imaginative" and "hot enough to peel paint."

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5 stars
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34 (29%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Cheryl Whitty.
904 reviews14 followers
January 12, 2019
Reviewed on behalf of http://bookaddict.live,
I’M VERY LUCKY TO HAVE A GREAT START TO THE New Year it’s seems I’ve had the pleasure to enjoy every book I’ve read so far, and this book was so different.
I love sports romances, but this was different where our hero Justin comes across shy and reserved toward Vivi the waitress his has pining after for a while but is nervous about asking her out.

Vivi has sworn of men and her ex left a nasty taste in her mouth, but when Justin a Redtails Defense-men asks her out she can’t say no. Justin was a real sweetheart, but when she finally gets him bed and sees his body and ink, he leaves her craving more.

This was an entertaining and sweet romance with just the right amount of heat. I thoroughly enjoyed it and after reading it left a nice smile on my face after finishing my read.

Profile Image for Christine.
452 reviews27 followers
January 16, 2019
The D-Man by Stephanie Julian is a sweet love story between Justin, Redtails defense man, and Vivi, a free spirit artist. I loved the chemistry between these two and how shy/old school Justin was at the beginning of the story. Let me tell you when these two finally connect it will scorch your kindle. I couldn't put this story down and read it in one sitting because I needed to know how these two end. To me this felt like one of the most realistic hockey romances with down to earth characters. I can not wait to see what the author has in store for us with the next installment of the Redtails! 5 "Can I see your Ink?" Stars!
Profile Image for Sassy Southern Book Blog.
4,524 reviews243 followers
January 20, 2019
Justin knows control and lives by it as much as possible, personally and professionally. That focus serves him well on the ice as a defenseman, off it he tends to keep his head down, his focus still on his job. Only one thing, or should I say woman, breaks that concentration...Vivi.

Vivi isn't immune to Justin's looks nor charm, though she pretends to be. See, her ex was an athlete too and it soured her on having a relationship with another...ever. Besides, working three jobs leaves little time for anything else, her determination to accomplish her dream career in photography her goal.

And then her eye for beauty completely wrecks all her plans, her glimpse at Justin's finely honed body the demise of her original plans. Now she's itching to capture him with her camera, to experience what he so obviously wants to give her.

But can she take it? Or will she discover Justin has much more in store for her, for them? Will he use his iron-clad control to win her over as he intends to? Can the man who has made a living on the ice break through the wall of it protecting her heart? Will Vivi realize he's nothing like her ex? That she can trust him with her love? Is a HEA possible?

One-click now and follow along as two people, both usually focused on other things, discover you can't fight fate when it brings soulmates together. I like that both of them knew what they wanted and went after it, or in Vivi's case ran from it when it came to a relationship with Justin. It appealed to me that he was the chaser, the one determined to show her what they could have if only she'd take a chance on him. - By Elizabeth
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.6k reviews163 followers
January 13, 2019
Stephanie Julian is a new to me author, so The D-Man is the first book that I've read by her, and I enjoyed it. Justin Perry is one of the Reading Redtails' best defensemen, but when it comes to women, he's not as sure about himself. He's not a playboy like his teammates, and he's a bit clumsy all the way around, nothing like he is on the ice. Justin has has a thing for Vivi Martin for a bit, but he's never really been able to talk to her. Vivi has noticed Justin's interest in her, but she's gun shy when it comes to having a relationship, especially with another athlete, but somehow slowly, Justin gets past her walls. This was definitely a slow burn story, though it wasn't a long read. Justin isn't the normal playboy athlete, as he's only had a few relationships, and doesn't sleep around which is original to be honest. While I loved Vivi, and even understood her hangups for the most part, there didn't seem like a lot of back story of why she was stubborn, which got very frustrating after a bit. Finally, I wish the ending had been a bit longer, as it seemed a tad rushed for me. And please remember, these are just my opinions. Anyway, I'm intrigued by these players, so I will be checking out more by this author, and HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Profile Image for Kelly.
654 reviews15 followers
January 14, 2019
Sweet, funny and steamy

My first read by this author was The Playboy (like this book, it’s part of the Redtails Hockey series), which I read in the Hockey Holidays anthology. I loved it—it was one of my favorite stories in the anthology—and I immediately added the series to my TBR, so when I saw this new book coming out, I jumped at the chance to read it.

Justin and Vivi are classic opposites attracting. Justin is quiet, an all around nice guy (so nice to get a hero who is actually a decent guy from the start!) while Vivi is the creative, all out type but with trust issues thanks to an a-hole ex. I felt for them both and was cheering them on from the very beginning. A little bit of a slow-burn story, once they got there, Justin definitely proved nice guys can be hot and dominant in the bedroom and they do finish last when it counts!

There were lots of great secondary characters as I’d expect to find in an established series. Having a bad memory for names, I sometimes find it a little overwhelming coming into the middle of an established series, but I thought the author did a great job of making this story work as standalone by not introducing too many characters at once and including a nice level of background detail along the way. While I’m sure having read more of the earlier books would add to the experience here, the only place where I wondered what background I might be missing out on was regarding Vivi and her ex—I just got the feeling maybe some of what was mentioned in passing here might have gotten more coverage in those earlier books. Pretty minor and not enough to detract from this story.

Sweet, funny and steamy, and with wonderful characters, I’m happy to say this book managed to live up to my expectations, and I’m moving this series to the top of my TBR. 5 stars

B2B Kelly
Profile Image for 2kasmom.
1,449 reviews54 followers
January 13, 2019
This is book #6, in the Redtails Hockey series. This story can be read as a standalone novel. For read understanding and to avoid spoilers, I recommend reading this series in order.

Justin is getting ribbed by his friends about watching Vivi when she is near. It is true he is interested. When you are tongue tied, when do you make your move?

Vivi does not usually go out with good guys. Commitment gives her hives. Justin is so different from what she is used to. He treats her like a man should treat a woman.

This was such a great addition to the series. Steamy and sweet, this book just grabbed at my heart strings and I could not put it down. The main characters were very real to me. Their story weaved and fell into place. I really liked this book it was a joy to read.


***This ARC copy was given in exchange for an honest review only.
Profile Image for Jackie Wright.
4,872 reviews107 followers
January 11, 2019
The D-Man may be the first book I have read in the Redtails Hockey Series but it won’t be the last because I loved everything about this book.
Justin Perry is a man in control both on the ice and off, he knows what he wants and that’s a spot on a NFL team he has no time for romance or a woman except when ViviMartin is around ...
Vivi Martin is beautiful bold and very bright and she is not immune to Justin’s awkward charm or his fabulous grin but falling for yet another athlete is not in her game plan ....
This story is about two people who on the face of it are complete opposites and it was a fun journey as they got to know each other. Characters with sizzling chemistry and an instant attraction but both with very different dreams make this a interesting read. The banter was witty, the story flowed and I’m looking forward to reading more from this author and the Redtails hockey team.

Profile Image for Gwen Shafer.
1,886 reviews27 followers
January 13, 2019
First book I have read by Stephanie definitely won't be the last. This is the first one I read in this series and it was enjoyable. Opposites do attract. Justin is a hockey player who got hurt badly by his ex. All he wants to do is start over and play hockey. Viv keeps to herself and got hurt by her ex. She really doesn't want to try again but really likes Justin. Will these two get together or will the past come between them when Justin does something to help her? Love the chemistry and the amazing characters. It was a good story line keep me wanting more. Can't wait to read more from this series.
Profile Image for Gladys.
12k reviews137 followers
January 12, 2019
I was blindsided by how much I enjoyed this romance. This is a new author to me and it is book six in a series, so I had some reservations when I started. All those were very quickly laid to rest as I read Justin and Vivi's story. An opposites attract romance that provides readers with loveable characters and a story that is loaded with deep emotions. I loved the balance that was brought to this book by having both characters have emotional baggage and be wounded from having been burned by love before. Justin was charming, dedicated and sweet. Vivi was strong, sassy and determined, but also a study in contrasts because she was so guarded and filled with insecurities. I found this book to be an excellent read and thought it was delightful. This is my frank, freely posted review.
Profile Image for Renee Entress.
5,260 reviews74 followers
January 15, 2019
4 star

I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, and heartbreak.

If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
The Brick Wall (Redtails Hockey, #1)
The Grinder (Redtails Hockey Book 2)
The Enforcer (Redtails Hockey Book 3)
The Instigator: Redtails Hockey

This is Vivi and Justin‘s story. Vivi is working three jobs to support herself and not interested in dating a athlete. Justin is all about control on the ice but off the ice he just keeps his head down stays out of trouble. His dream is to be on an NHL team, and he is trying to achieve that dream. Vivi makes him feel things he is not sure he wants to feel but he is willing to try. He is going to have to break down all the walls she has built around her heart for a chance, but does she want him for him or for what he can do for her? He could make her a ton on photos, but does she just want that, or does she want him? Can they figure it out before both of them end up hurt in the end?

I loved these characters and the side characters. I felt I could connect with the characters and the story was a great read.

I recommend this book.
Profile Image for Jodi Bird (Ruby Red Romance Review).
1,168 reviews96 followers
January 15, 2019
5 STAR Review by Jodi for Ruby Red Romance Review

I've had the pleasure of reading a couple of Stephanie's books now. I must say, every time I read a new story I fall further in love with her writing. I'm a sports romance junkie anyway, so The D-Man was right up my alley.

Justin is shy and focused on his dream. but Vivi might make him step outside his comfort zone. She might make him want other things. Vivi loves her photography and she loves the idea of having a man that supports her. But when Justin pushes to hard, it makes Vivi back away. I loved that Justin was so supportive, but he might have come on to strong with the support. In the same respect, Vivi might have taken offense to something that was harmless. I'm not telling you my opinion, because you can see both sides. What I will tell you is read this story.

You do not have to read the other books in this series to understand Justin and Vivi's story. I love that. You can pick up anywhere in this series and know what is going on. But...it's nice to have a little background information, so maybe start from the beginning. Please check out this awesome story.
Profile Image for Isha Coleman.
7,543 reviews153 followers
January 13, 2019
The D-Man (Redtails Hockey #6) by Stephanie Julian  
 
Julian proves that brash and sexy is not exclusive to males. Vivi is a hot mama who doesn't sit back and watch from the sides. She makes things happen. We need more women like her in the world. The D-Man dares to be bold on and off the ice. Justin is the spark to Vivi's match and the sparks are epic. An explosion of sensuality and heart makes for a tantalizing experience.
Profile Image for Lauren.
2,498 reviews13 followers
January 13, 2019
This was my first book by this author and it didn't disappoint. Justin is super likeable and down right adorable and Vivi is the perfect amount of spunk and ambition but she's holding herself back. These two are down right adorable together and they definitely have the heat. I love that all of there friends want them together and push it and I love that when she pushes him away his brother is the one who gets her thinking. Really enjoyed this book!!!
Profile Image for Christina Montminy.
1,964 reviews21 followers
April 29, 2019
Loved it. This series just keeps getting better and better with each new book. I enjoyed the slow passion between Justin & Vivi. I also enjoyed how shy Justin was around her until they started getting to know each other & then he showed us who he really was. I felt bad about the insecurities that Vivi had when coming to trying to figure out what she wanted from life because of an ex boyfriend. In the end we get a feel good addition to a wonderful series.
Profile Image for Diane Lynch Lynch.
1,777 reviews45 followers
January 13, 2019
Stephanie Julian scores with THE D-MAN. Reading Redtails’ defenseman Justin Perry has had a crush on Vivi Martin for a long time. Vivi had a bad break up with an athlete and refuses to put herself in that situation again. However, she is intrigued by his tattoos and begins to get to know him better. Justin is nothing like her ex.

I like Justin and Vivi. Justin is on the shy side. He is quiet and kind. He has high moral standards. Vivi is artistic and bold. She is hard working and sociable. They don’t seem like they would be a good fit, but they totally are. My son’s name is Justin, and he is a defense high school hockey player I couldn’t help but appreciate the main character for their similarities.

THE D-MAN is a heartfelt and enjoyable read. The characters have some misunderstandings and obstacles that make the story interesting. This book fits in well with the series. It is skillfully written and enjoyable. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
Profile Image for Chris.
1,620 reviews12 followers
January 8, 2019
The D-Man is definitely a hot hockey romance with a sweet storyline and flawed characters. That quality simply makes them more endearing.
Jess is strong and independent but is weighted down with so many insecurities from her past relationship that it takes a while for Justin to break down her barriers and for her to stop comparing him to her ex.
Justin is a big, strong hockey player yet he is shy, sweet, patient and almost old fashion in his way with Jess. He wants more than just a quick fling and makes her crazy by taking it so slow.
This was a fun book to read as we took the journey with Justin and Jess as their relationship grew to so much more.
Profile Image for Amy Stephens.
Author 126 books523 followers
January 14, 2019
I'm all about a great hockey story, as it's become one of my favorite sports romances to read!

Stephanie Julian is a new author to me, and I must say, she's won me over as a fan. Sometimes I struggle starting in the middle of a series, reading about characters I'm not familiar with, but the author did a pretty good job keeping everyone straight. In fact, I was so intrigued by the other characters, I cant' wait to read more about them.

And though the story itself was a little short, I found that I actually enjoyed Justin and Vivi's slow-burn romance. I liked that Justin wasn't the normal jock that you find in these kinds of stories. Quiet and a bit shy, I was so happy when he and Vivi finally got together. Both were very adorable characters that you couldn't help but to fall in love with. Genuine and heartfelt, with that spark you love.

Great story with an easy style of writing--I was lured in almost immediately!
Profile Image for Emily Utsch.
424 reviews4 followers
January 7, 2019
I have a new book boyfriend!
This was the first book I have read by this author. It is in a series but could be read as a standalone. I am sure I would have gotten more out of the secondary characters if I had read the previous books, but I didn't miss out on the main love story. I am going to go back and read all of the books in the series cause I love it! Hockey romance is my jam.
I loved that the H was such a throw back to old school values, just made my heart melt. And I loved the h, she was so spunky and free. I wish I could be like that.
I only wish the book was longer, it could have been flushed out more.
Profile Image for Jackie Ziegler.
1,469 reviews6 followers
January 8, 2019
Justin is the shy quiet defensemen who has his eye on the going Vivi. When they finally get to talking and learning about each other he finds that Vivi is an amazing photographer and that she really should pursue this dream. Will one misunderstanding be the end for this dynamic pair

Justin is just everything Vivi wants but is the total opposite of her. He is focused on his dream and wants her to focus on hers but when she feels like he is trying to tell her what to do with her life will she run?

Loved watching this duo.. Opposites totally attract
1,416 reviews10 followers
January 15, 2019
Justin stole my heart from the beginning and didn't give it back. He has been attracted to Vivi for awhile, but doesn't believe she will give him a chance. He is always awkward around her. Vivi finds Justin attractive, but not her type. Even her sister tells her maybe she needs to give Justin a chance.
As they start spending more time together they both start developing feelings for the other. Neither has been happier, but she is skittish due to a previous relationship. When he does something she asked him not to, is there any way he can get her to forgive him and believe he was doing what he thought would help her? Justin was so sweet and understanding and I was rooting for him the whole time. A wonderful book.
Profile Image for Kari Hansen.
10.1k reviews84 followers
January 14, 2019
On the ice Justin is an accomplished defenceman for the Reading Redtails’ full of swagger and confidence but when it comes to a certain waitress, he is tongue tied and unsure. He has been trying to work up the courage to ask her out, but she takes matters into her own hands.

Vivi is working three jobs as she tries to find a way to make her dream job a reality. She isn’t interested in dating athletes but from the moment she met Justin she knew there was much more to him than that.

Justin and Vivi becomes friends and then it evolves into more, but before they can take that step they must leave their pasts in the past. This is a sweet and sexy story that doesn’t disappoint.

Profile Image for Downward dog.
1,886 reviews13 followers
January 14, 2019
This is the sixth book in the Redtails Hockey series and it is a sweet, feel good story. Justin, a shy hockey player, stole my heart. Justin has had a crush on Vivi for a while but doesn't have the confidence to ask her out on a date.

Vivi has always been attracted to bad boys and Justin is too sweet and nice for her. Plus, Justin is an athlete and Vivi doesn’t date athletes. Even though Justine is not Vivi’s type, there is something about him that she can’t resist. I liked Justin and Vivi and was rooting for them to work out their issues and become a couple. I enjoyed this entertaining and fun story.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Cindy Hughes.
1,423 reviews7 followers
January 14, 2019
Sweet Sexy Funny!

This was the first book by this author that I’ve read and it won’t be the last!
I love hockey romance and this one was great! This story is a classic opposites attract romance. It was a sweet, funny, steamy and sexy story! It has wonderful characters and a great storyline! I loved the interaction between Justin and Vivid and their amazing chemistry! After reading The D Man lm going to read the rest of the series! I highly recommend this book to everyone!
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews159 followers
January 6, 2019
Justin is often times confused, I guess I would say, " she wanted to see his ink?" Justin doesn't mind giving his girl free reign, "his smile disappeared but the heat in his gaze burned hotter. “It wouldn’t matter if I did. You can touch me wherever you want.” I liked thia book, I loved Justin.
Profile Image for Chris.
1,700 reviews21 followers
January 14, 2019
This is my second book by this author and first that I've read in the Redtails Hockey series. I was immediately hooked. While Justin's cluelessness and shyness were endearing, I think it definitely hurt his budding relationship with Vivi. I'm really glad Vivi gave him a chance. I can't wait to read the rest of the series!
Profile Image for Sionna Trenz.
Author 17 books102 followers
June 16, 2023
I bought this book at a convention. It’s the first time I’ve read Stephanie Julian. This is I believe book 6 in her Redtails hockey romance series, but I didn’t feel like I was missing anything by not reading the others. It’s truly standalone.

What I loved about this book is that Justin proved that a guy can be a cinnamon roll and still be totally steamy. Sometimes the sweet enhances the spice, and this novella proves it. Justin cares so much for everyone in his life, it’s time he found someone to care for him.

Vivi is a mixed bag for me. Maybe it’s that she’s on the cusp of “growing up”. She’s a lot of fun, she made me smile or even laugh. And at times she annoyed me. The mark of a well-rounded character.

The reason this book doesn’t get 5-stars (and really if I could I would have given it 3 3/4 stars), is because the resolution of the conflict was both too simple and too abrupt. Considering how much Vivi dwelled on the issues her ex left her with, I’d expected it to take more than just an abrupt epiphany to change her mind. And despite Justin’s… let’s call it misstep. Despite that, he deserved at least a bit of groveling or something more than Vivi gave him. The relationship for me feels unbalanced, with Justin giving everything and loving her fully, while Vivi is indulging in “something different.” But overall, well worth reading!
Profile Image for Kelly Graham.
343 reviews2 followers
March 26, 2019
This is the first time i've read anything by this author I did finish the book within a night as not mega long but to be honest it made me realise that I prefer books written from the characters point of view more than third person.
I'm usually a fan of the slow burn romance but dont think I was that fussed about the actual characters in this book.
In the beginning of the book Vivi comes across as a fiesty character with a sharp tongue but alot of that disappeared when she was with justin there was alot of times she was thinking of something she should say or do but then just didnt which contradicted her character a bit.
Justin may be a tough hockey player but he is an old school when it comes to romance and likes to take things slow, very gentlemanly and build the sexual tension between the pair.
Overall tho I think my main problem with the characters is they were too hung up on their exes, everything justin did vivi compared to her ex.
Overall just an OK read
216 reviews
June 19, 2019
Loved it but...

Loved it but .... i loved the story, Vivi is a waitress working 3 jobs as a waitress but taking time to do photography as a hobby, she is really good but doesn't believe anyine when they tell her that. Justin is a Player for the Reading Readtails Hockey team. He is shy having just gotten out of a long term relationship and sick of puck bunnies hitting on him for his money or another notch on their hockey headboard. So they tiptoe around each other, neither wanting to scare the other one off but eventually they get their act together but then and here is where the BUT comes in the book just ends, i thought it ended kinda abruptly, i just turned the page and there wasnt anything else. It needed an epilogue to tie up loose ends. Im still looking forward to more books in the series, actually, backwards since this is book 6 which proves this book can stand alone
Profile Image for Patti.
1,375 reviews
January 17, 2019
Yet again, blown away, another new author to my list! Love this series and the guys on the Redtails!!! The struggle is real people, when the hot hockey guy cannot come up with words to even speak to the crush of his life, you know this is going to be good. Such a great story, I did not have to read all of the other books to understand the series, did not get confused by the other characters. Cannot wait to go back and read them all... :)
1,602 reviews6 followers
January 14, 2019
I loved-loved-loved Justin. His crush on Vivi was adorable in the beginning. And, once they got together, they had great chemistry. Great storytelling!
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