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I fell in love with a billionaire.I just didn’t know it.Jean-Michel Dubois is the owner of the professional hockey team, the Oakland Eagles, and established the world-renowned Oak Ridge Vineyards.
And…he’s fallen for me.
Me. The boring woman who spends her time studying, baking cookies, and nannying for an adorable little girl.
A relationship between us makes no sense—I’ve tried to make him see that.
But he’s a successful businessman for a reason.
He's ruthless and goes after what he wants.
And he’s decided…That’s me.

307 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 24, 2025

102 people are currently reading
283 people want to read

About the author

Elise Faber

142 books1,028 followers
USA Today bestselling author, Elise Faber, loves chocolate, Star Wars, Harry Potter, and hockey (the order depending on the day and how well her team -- the Sharks! -- are playing). She and her husband also play as much hockey as they can squeeze into their schedules, so much so that their typical date night is spent on the ice. Elise is the mom to two exuberant boys and lives in Northern California. Connect with her in her Facebook group, the Fabinators or find more information about her books at www.elisefaber.com.

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5 stars
136 (41%)
4 stars
114 (34%)
3 stars
52 (15%)
2 stars
21 (6%)
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4 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
Profile Image for Cristina.
1,364 reviews254 followers
February 27, 2025
It was an okay read. I think the ex-wife was a bit much in terms of conflict.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jen.
195 reviews
February 24, 2025
5 ⭐️
Why you’ll love this book!!
Age Gap
Silver Fox
Virgin Heroine
He Falls First
Billionaire Romance
Grumpy Hero

I am sucker for a man who knows what he want and Jean-Michel Dubois knew he wanted Tiff!! He is very protective for Tiff and wants to take care of her !!There maybe an age gap but Tiff has gone through stuff that has made her older for her age..I loved seeing Tiff and Jean-Michael’s daughters bonding!!
I am ready for the next book in the series if you need a great hockey/ age gap/ single dad romance this book is so for you!!
Profile Image for Sam.
251 reviews38 followers
February 20, 2025
4.5⭐️/2🌶️

This book was exactly what I needed! I’ve been deep in my MC dark romance era, and this was the perfect break!

Tiffany and Jean-Michael’s romance felt straight out of a fairytale. Their meet-cute was adorable, and watching them fall for each other was so sweet. 💖 The story was well written, with enough romance and angst to make it worth reading.

If you’re in the mood for a swoony, feel-good billionaire romance, this one’s definitely worth picking up! ✨
Profile Image for Lina.
625 reviews24 followers
March 9, 2025
A couple of weeks ago, I had an email newsletter from a favorite author that included a link to 38 free books by different writers. I chose to read a small novella - "Leashes & Legalese", which was something like a prequel to "Bottles & Blades", but, of course, with a different couple. But at the end of it, I saw the blurb for this book and I knew I had to read it. So as soon as the book came out, I bought it for my Kindle and started reading it straight away. I am glad that I did it, because I enjoyed it fully.

Tiff and Jean-Michel meeting were totally random, when she helped him pay for his groceries. She didn't know at the time, that he was a millionaire. Their meeting after wasn't random at all. From that moment on, he knew she was different, and he couldn't stop his attraction towards her. He saw that she needed someone to love her and take care of her. I liked the fact that they spend enough time getting to know each other and fall in love. All this time, he was literally her rock. When she was young, she spent her life in hospitals and, even after that, she started taking care of her parents. He wanted to be with her and help her with all of this. Because he knew she was his life. One thing is for certain - she was a good person not used to someone else taking the reins of her life. His daughter also loved her, and she saw Tiff make him happy.

We also had plenty of steamy scenes. The passion between those two was off the charts. I loved that he waited for her to be ready, before they'd done anything. But that didn't make their scenes less spicy. The smut was hot, hot, hot 🥵.

I loved their story and I will definitely read more books by Elise Faber in the future. The other thing is that now I can't wait for Marie's book. As soon as it comes out, I will read it.
Profile Image for Jacklyn B.
817 reviews22 followers
March 1, 2025
This is such a sweet and feel good story with a sprinkle of suspense..Jean-Michel Dubois and Tiffany Hernandez have this immediate connection. They have this very relatable meet-cute (he loses his wallet) and you can feel the chemistry between them.

My heart broke for Tiff and her childhood. She is strong and resilient and smart and independent and the perfect match for Jean-Michel. He is grumpy and a little brooding but also protective and sweet and so supportive. He has a fairy-godfather complex and wants to give her the world.

It’s not all smooth sailing as they both have pasts and family issues but overall this is a low angst and swoon worthy story. It was fun to see their relationship develop and I liked the side characters too!

✨What To Expect:
🍷Contemporary Romance
💰Billionaire Romance
⛈️Grumpy Hero
💋V Heroine
❤️‍🔥He Falls First
🏒He Owns A Hockey Team
💙Age Gap
🦊Silver Fox
Profile Image for Emily Utsch.
555 reviews5 followers
February 17, 2025
Hockey owner/nanny(not for him), age gap, family issues, insta love (in a good way) and hot spice!

This book is the first in the series and can be read as a complete stand alone.

You will get some fun little Easter eggs though if you have read some of the other series. But they are just minor, so if you haven't read the books you won't miss anything. But if you have the Easter eggs will give you quite a giggle.
1 review
February 28, 2025
Imagine as many tropes as possible and then shove them all into one story, because that’s what we’ve got here. Age gap? Check. Virgin? Check. Billionaire? Check. Broke girl with tough life? Check. Then we’ve got our typical psychotic ex-wife for flair.

Our h is, of course, just trying to make it through life a day at a time before H comes to the rescue. He gets rid of the drunk pervy neighbour, replaces the locks on her house, pays for all her parents care and has an obsession with calling the h buttercup or baby (which is weird when we h speaks to her dad and also calls her baby)

I’ll most likely forget these characters even exist and have no desire to read the next book in the series.

This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog).
5,690 reviews204 followers
February 24, 2025




Amazon / Nook / Apple / Google / Kobo



Though Tiffany (Tiff) is barely making ends meet, she can't not help the man in the store who obviously needs help paying for his groceries. Little did she know that this one small act of kindness would not only be the cutest of meet cutes, but it would bring her love and change her entire world, because that man? He's a hot, silver fox billionaire who takes one look at her and decides she's his. Yep. Tiff's in Jean-Michel's sights now and he's not letting her get away.



Jean-Michel (Jean-Mi) has a bit of a savior complex. He's completely protective and rescuing of those he cares about. In the past that's been his daughter and his employees, but one look at the beautiful, kind woman whose simple act of kindness toward him, has all those instincts roaring to the surface, for her. For his Buttercup. Now he just has to be as gentle as he can with Tiff as he woos her into seeing that they're meant to be, that she's his and he's hers. He'll burn down the world for her even if she sasses the f out of him for it, and they'll be together forever.



Oh my heart...talk about swoon! Jean-Mi and Tiff are so freaking adorable together. Insta love and age gap aren't normally my thing, but how could I not love these two?! She's lived a hard life, so her maturity is on par with his even if he's almost 2 decades older than she. She deserved love, deserved to be taken care of for once, and no one could have been the one to do that for her than except her Jean-Mi, the protective, caring man she had compassion for even though she didn't even know him. I am so excited for this new series now with this kind of swoony, sweet introduction. Now I'm impatiently waiting for Jean's assistant Marie's story with the man whose rideshare she kinda sorta accidentally stole once upon a time.



ARC provided by Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.
Ebook also purchased through Amazon.


Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.

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Profile Image for Ria Alexander.
2,492 reviews47 followers
February 24, 2025
Jean-Mi and his Buttercup

Right from the beginning Elise Faber's BOTTLES & BLADES, book #1 in the Oakridge Vineyards series, was a fun, sweet, and thoroughly enjoyable read. An age-gap, virgin heroine, grumpy hero, billionaire romance which had me sighing and swooning all the way through.

Due to illness Tiffany "Tiff" Hernandez's childhood wasn't an easy one, even now she struggles between her schooling, her job as a nanny, and looking after her parents who are both ill. Even with no money to spare she helps a man pay for his goods when he has misplaced his wallet, a deed that will bring its own unexpected reward. Jean-Michel Dubois, owner of the Eagles NHL team and Oakridge Vineyards and the CEO of Titan Capital, has more money than he'll ever need. When he loses his wallet and is helped out by a complete stranger he is determined to repay her. Neither Tiff nor Jean-Michel expected that one good deed could change both their lives.

Tiff and Jean-Michel have an instant connection and a chemistry which sizzles. While their romance is a slow burn one, the passion and heat between them is palpable. Jean-Michel is absolutely swoonworthy. He may come across as being gruff and demanding, but inside is a cinnamon roll, a man who will do anything for the woman he is falling for. Tiff is such a strong woman because of everything she has been through. While she is young and inexperienced, she gives something to Jean-Michel he has never had... pure happiness.

BOTTLES & BLADES was a joy to read, it was emotional, heartwarming, and had moments that made me not only smile, but laugh. I adored the love, support, and understanding that these two incredible characters gave each other. There's no third act breakup, but there is plenty of suspense and drama, thanks to Jean-Michel's ex making an appearance. That woman is pure evil. I enjoyed catching up with Jean-Michel's daughter, Chrissy Broken Laces and Stefan and Brit Barie Blocked.

If you want to read a story that will make you believe in love, then BOTTLES & BLADES is the perfect choice. A highly recommended read.

Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction

✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
Profile Image for Joyffree.
3,323 reviews60 followers
February 23, 2025
"I'm starting to think that maybe you're all I've been waiting for and everything I never thought I'd have."

This starts out pretty wild but as the story progressed and I really got to know Jean-Mi and Tiff, their reactions made total sense. This is going to be such a fabulous "how we met story" for their friends and their future children - Because honestly, these two have to have little Jeans and Tiffs

"I was tired, but then a pesky billionaire turned up on my stoop and started arguing with me."
Tiff is just hanging on by a thread, financially, physically, and emotionally. However, all that changes when a random act of kindness by her triggers events that will change her life forever.

Jean-Mi has a bit of a savior complex. A bit is a touch of an understatement, he is referred to by many as a fairy godfather, and for good reason. But repaying Tiff's kindness is not a one-time thing. She calls to him on so many levels and he plans to keep her

"Today started great. It had a shit middle. But I'm going to make sure it ends exactly as we like. Together. With love. And... With laughter."
Major props to the author here. I sometimes have issues with the whole age gap/virgin trope but this was believable - yes it was instalove but it made sense.
All the pieces were crafted to perfectly slot together so it felt natural. Believable. Age here is just a number. Tiff is mature beyond her years.
The obstacles they faced - they faced together - as a team
Okay, Jean-Mi has a bit of a command problem but Tiff knew how to deal with that. She didnt roll over to his every demand she carefully balanced her play and reacted accordingly. I really liked her strength
These two complimented each other so well

An exciting blend of suspense, drama, and mystery wrapped in the sweetest romance - again these two fit
Great secondary characters like Jean-Mi's daughter and her bestie ... sheer perfection
His confident and efficient admin Marie, who looks to be the next to fall to the love bug
His diabolical ex. Or is she? That is a story that I look forward to
Tiff's mom who I so badly wanted to medicate
and so many more
This ends with the cutest HEA

I am looking forward to the next in the series as well as going back and checking out some of this author's other works
Profile Image for Shannon.
956 reviews40 followers
February 20, 2025
Kindle Unlimited: No
Stand-alone: Yes**
Author: Elise Faber
Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐️
Spiciness Rating: 3/5 🌶
POV: First Person Dual Perspective
Main Couple: Jean-Michel and Tiff (Tiffany)
Trope(s): Billionaire, Age Gap, He Falls First, Virgin FMC

‘His hand comes to my jaw, and he tilts my face up. “Seeing Paris through your eyes”-he leans in, rests his forehead against mine-”is beautiful. You gave me that. Spending these last couple of weeks with you, learning you, loving, you, is even more so. I’ve been so lonely, baby. For so fucking long that I didn’t think I would ever not be. But you made that go away.”

This is my first read by Elise Faber. If you want low angst, with a smattering of suspense, insta-attraction, but a build up of the relationship, with a silver fox who has a fairy godfather complex, a tough independent FMC with loads of romance, swoony moments, found family, and just plain ole good romance? This one’s for you. Sometimes you just need a sweet, swoony romance to consume your time, have you letting go of the things you should be doing, while you sip your wine and fall in love.


Tiff Hernandez’s childhood was a struggle. Now healthy, she is trying to finish college at the age of twenty-seven. Going to school, being a nanny, and taking care of her ill parents has her burning the candle at both ends. With no money or time to spare.

Knowing what it is like to struggle she lends a helping hand to the man in front of her at the grocery store. Only to have him waiting outside for her. Wanting to repay her.

The gorgeous mess of a man turns out to be Jean-Michel Dubois, owner of Oak Ridge Vineyards, CEO of Titan Capital, and the owner of the Eagles Hockey Team. So, the well-rounded billionaire.

Tiff’s vulnerability calls to Jean-Michel. Ignites his Fairy Godfather tendencies.

Despite the age difference and the turmoil going on in his life thanks to his ex-wife, Jean-Michel wants to give Tiff all the things she has missed out on in life, especially the unconditional support of someone who cares for her.
Profile Image for Marea.
289 reviews1 follower
February 25, 2025
This is the first book in the Oak Ridge Vineyards Series but a spin off another series of Elise Faber’s. It is a different start, a little slow in some ways and honestly a bit confusing if you haven’t read some of the other series. But then when it takes off, it really takes off. The way Elise was able to take 2 characters from 2 very different walks of life and put them together a way with such chemistry and heat is amazing!!! Add this to your never ending TBR list!

Tiffany Hernandez did not have the greatest childhood for several reasons and now as an adult she was struggling to make ends meet. But that does not mean she will not help someone when they are in need, even if it means she has to give up her own food. She was just not expecting for the stranger to pay her back the way that he did, let alone for her to fall in love with him. Was she willing to accept not only his love in return but his belief that she should no longer be struggling?

Jean-Michael Dubois’s life had it is ups and its downs. He is the CEO of Titan Capital, which also means he is the owner of an NHL team called the Eagles and the Oakridge Vineyards which he brought back to life from nothing. When he forgets his wallet one day at the store, he isn’t expecting someone to pay for his things, he knows though that he has to repay her. Jean-Michael never imagined though that she would not just do a good deed over the groceries but work her way into his heart and his life. He knows with everything she has been through & going through he will have to take it slow. What Jean-Michael wasn’t prepared for though was his ex coming back into his life again and putting everyone he loved, including Tiffany at risk.

Thanks to 1852 Media and Elise Faber for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion
Profile Image for Isabella Grace.
196 reviews3 followers
March 5, 2025
⭐️ARC REVIEW⭐️

“𝙎𝙢𝙖𝙧𝙩. 𝙎𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙩. 𝙆𝙞𝙣𝙙. 𝙁𝙪𝙣𝙣𝙮. 𝘽𝙚𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙞𝙛𝙪𝙡. 𝙈𝙄𝙉𝙀. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙛*𝙘𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙬𝙣𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠.”

This was my first time reading Elise Faber, and I can guarantee that it won’t be my last!

This book was such a feel good book. Age gap/insta love done RIGHT!!!

Tiffany is a young college student who is struggling to hang on. Juggling school, nannying and caring for two ill parents after making it through a rough and heart wrenching childhood…she stumbles upon a man at the grocery store who seems to have forgotten his wallet and can’t pay. The kind hearted Tiff thinks he’s probably having a tough time, something she’s all too familiar with. So, she pays for his groceries, much to the shock of the older gentleman. Little does she know, the mystery man is non other than Jean-Michael Dubois. Billionaire and owner of a prospering vineyard and NHL team. He vows to pay Tiff back and, true to his fairy god father complex, give her everything she’s never had and more. Only problem? Neither of them expected to fall in love along the way.

These two were MADE for each other. Jean-Michael has a tendency to be a little…domineering in a sweet way? But Tiff is NOT afraid to let him know when he’s overstepping and put him in his place. And he LOVES IT! He helps heal so many parts of her soul that were broken or lost. And she shows him that she loves him despite everything he can give her.

Now look, I love my romance with ANGST. And this had NONE! But it was written SO WELL, that I didn’t care. It healed parts of myself that I didn’t even know needed healing.

There’s a tiny bit of drama with Jean-Michael’s ex but…it wasn’t really anything that wasn’t sorted out quickly. They get their happy ending as they DESERVE! I can’t wait for the next instalment of this series!!! 🖤💗🖤

🍷Contemporary Romance
🏒Billionaire Romance
🍷Grumpy Hero
🏒Virgin Heroine
🍷He Falls First
🏒He Owns a Hockey Team
🍷Silver Fox
🏒Age Gap
🍷Nanny
🏒Dual POV
🍷Starting Over
🏒Soft Only For Her
Profile Image for World Of Books 65.
2,974 reviews56 followers
February 24, 2025
✨ A Hockey-Vineyard Romance You Won’t Want to Miss! ✨

I can’t begin to tell you how I feel after reading an Elise Faber story—other than completely hooked! From the first book I ever picked up by her, I knew I was a fan. Her ability to craft not only a five-star romance but also surround it with a breathtaking, well-rounded storyline is nothing short of spectacular.

And let me tell you, Bottles & Blades, the first book in her brand-new Eagles Hockey: Oak Ridge Vineyards series, delivers all that and more! A delicious blend of hockey heat and vineyard vibes—seriously, what more could you want?

This story introduces us to Jean-Michel Dubois, swoon-worthy CEO and owner of multiple companies, including the vineyard at the heart of this series. Every single time he tells Tiff that she’s "Smart," "Kind," "Funny," and "Beautiful," I swear the hairs on my arms stood on end. Talk about a man who knows how to make a reader melt!

This age-gap romance (and yes, it’s quite the gap!) doesn’t let the years between them overshadow the undeniable connection that sparks from the moment Tiff pays for Jean-Michel’s lunch. Their chemistry? Instant. Their obstacles? Gut-wrenching. An unhinged ex-wife, Tiff’s overwhelming responsibilities—none of it was ever going to stand in the way of their well-deserved HEA.

But don’t be fooled—this love story isn’t all smooth sailing. It’s a slow burn (with plenty of passion!), featuring twists and bumps that keep you turning the pages. Jean-Michel slowly, tenderly taking on some of Tiff’s burdens? Major swoon. But what makes this pair truly special is how Tiff supports him in return, in ways only he can fully understand.

Bottles & Blades is everything I love about Elise Faber’s writing: heartfelt, emotional, and filled with moments that make you believe in love all over again. I’m already counting down the days until the next instalment in this exciting new series!
Profile Image for Palistha.
83 reviews3 followers
April 25, 2025
3.5 Stars — Sweet, Swoony, and Surprisingly Healing

Bottles and Blades is the kind of romance that sneaks up on you. It starts with a “meet cute” in a grocery store, struggling college student Tiffany helps a seemingly forgetful older man pay for his groceries. What she doesn’t realize is that this man is Jean-Michael Dubois; a silver fox billionaire, NHL team owner, and vineyard mogul and that simple act of kindness will turn her life upside down.

Tiffany is juggling way too much for someone her age. School, nannying, and caring for two sick parents but she’s tough, kind, and refreshingly no-nonsense. Jean-Mi, on the other hand, has a classic savior complex that veers into fairy godfather territory, but it works here. He falls first and hard, and while he’s definitely got a domineering streak, Tiff holds her own and keeps him in check. Their dynamic feels balanced, even with the age gap and the billionaire virgin trope which I usually struggle with but in this case, it just works.

The story is light on angst (surprisingly, given their backstories), but the writing is heartfelt and compelling. Their emotional connection felt natural, and the dual POV gives the romance depth. There’s a bit of drama with Jean-Mi’s ex, a touching bond between Tiff and his daughter, and a sweet cast of side characters that make the world feel lived in (special shoutout to Marie and the Gold hockey couple).

Is it insta-love? Sure. But it’s believable, tender, and healing in the best way. If you like your romance with a protective hero, a strong heroine who doesn't back down, and a guaranteed happy ending, this one’s worth a shot.
Profile Image for Chris.
1,807 reviews12 followers
February 24, 2025
Bottles & Blades, book one in the Oak Ridge Vineyards series is an age-gap romance that pulled me right in. I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline and the endearing characters.
Tiff is struggling financially even as she holds a job as a nanny. She is working hard to get her degree, but it is the exhausting burden of caring for her ailing parents both financially and physically that keeps her from being able to make ends meet. It is the guilt she carries from her parents sacrificing when she was young and diagnosed with cancer. She made it through but still feels the need to care for them. Tiff has a big heart and even when her budget is tight she shows compassion for a man at the grocery store who can’t pay for his lunch. Little does she know is that chance meeting and her sacrifice will change her life.
Jean-Michel is not only the owner of Oak Ridge Vineyards but he is also the owner of a professional hockey team and the CEO of a huge multi billion dollar company. He immediately sees something in Tiff with her kind gesture and desperately want to get to know her better and help her in anyway he can. She is someone special that he knows will bring him happiness even if she is much younger than he is. However, he also needs to deal with his crazy manipulative ex-wife that is wreaking havoc on both his personal and business life.
It was easy to see that Tiff and Jean-Mi brought out the best in each other and it was a joy to be along for the ride as they found their happily ever after.
Profile Image for Dara Wasalino Tremblay.
97 reviews9 followers
February 24, 2025
"Bottles & Blades" by Elise Faber is a contemporary romance that intertwines the worlds of professional hockey and winemaking. The narrative centers on Jean-Michel Dubois, the affluent owner of the Oakland Eagles hockey team and founder of the esteemed Oak Ridge Vineyards. Despite his high-profile status, Jean-Michel finds himself captivated by a woman who leads a seemingly ordinary life—dedicated to her studies, baking, and caring for a young child as a nanny. Their relationship appears improbable, yet Jean-Michel's determination to pursue what he desires becomes a compelling force in the story.

Set against the backdrop of professional sports and luxury vineyards, Faber crafts a narrative that explores themes of love transcending social boundaries and the courage to embrace unexpected connections. The characters are well-developed, with Jean-Michel portrayed as a driven yet compassionate individual, and the female protagonist embodying humility and warmth. Their chemistry is palpable, and the progression of their relationship is both heartfelt and believable, although rapid.

Faber's writing is engaging, with vivid descriptions that bring the settings to life and dialogue that captures the nuances of the characters' personalities. The plot is well-paced, balancing moments of tension with instances of tenderness, keeping readers invested in the outcome of this unlikely romance. There was no third-act breakup and although each character experienced some internal angst, it was short-lived and the characters were open and honest with each other and supported one another.

Fans of contemporary romance, especially those who enjoy stories that blend different worlds and challenge societal expectations, will find this novel a delightful addition to their reading list.
Profile Image for Pauline.
899 reviews
February 20, 2025
What a great start to the new series from Elise Faber. Full disclosure, I'm not a fan of age gap romances, they make me feel a little icky, but not this one! When Jean Michel Dubois finds himself in the grocery store, covered in grime from a day of work and minus his wallet to pay for said groceries, Tiffany decides to pay for them, even though as a struggling student she really can't afford to. But she leaves the store, Jean-Michel 'kidnaps' her and takes her to his office to repay her. What Tiff doesn't know is that Jean-Michel saw her put back some of her own shopping as she couldn't afford to buy it after paying for his. What Tiff also doesn't know, is that Jean-Michel is a billionaire businessman who owns a hockey team, and a winery in addition to other businesses, and also that he is immediately enchanted by this woman.

This story is one of insta-love (kind of), heat, protectiveness and family and knowing that for once you have someone in your corner. The story flows through the ups and downs of their relationship making it a wonderfully smooth read that makes you want to curl up and escape to this magically place. I loved that there was little drama between the main characters, with bumps coming from outside influences. Another great story and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Sara.
2,082 reviews11 followers
February 22, 2025
I’ve been eager for this book for months after reading a teaser excerpt in one of the author’s previous books. The young college student paying for the older gentleman’s groceries while he’s covered in dirt and grime not realizing he’s a billionaire sounded so intriguing.

I was thrilled when I learned of Tiff’s connection to a favorite couple from another series that added some extra enjoyment to this book. Jean-Michael Dubois is super protective and generous to those he loves. He falls quickly for Tiff because she see’s him first as a person and doesn’t care about his wealth. She has survived being a very sick child, cancer and an abusive parent.

Tiff and Jean-Michael may be complete opposites in many ways, but they really are perfect for each other. I adored his daughter Chrissy in her book and was thrilled to see her mature and loving reaction to seeing her dad dating a younger woman - she’s happy because her dad is happy.

This is a sweet contemporary romance with a dash of hockey thrown in because Jean-Michael owns the Eagles. There is some drama from his ex-wife, because she’s trying to cause damage to his business dealings.

I’m excited for the next book in this new series.

I received a free ARC from the author and 1852 Media; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
Profile Image for Jackie (Jackie's Book World) .
908 reviews59 followers
February 25, 2025
***Review can also be found at Jackie's Book World. :)***

Not having read any other books by the author before, I didn’t know what to expect. Needless to say, Faber is able to deliver a story that packs a punch right off the bat in Bottle & Blades. This steamy romance will leave you reading nonstop until the very end.

What starts off as a unique encounter between Tiff Hernandez and Jean-Michel Dubois, neither of them expected just how much their lives were about to change forever. Meeting the CEO of Titan Capital and owner of the professional hockey team, the Oakland Eagles, is intimidating for Tiff. But she is intrigued by his persona and attracted to him right away. It’s evident that they both have been through so much already that immediately makes Jean-Michel wanting to be Tiff’s protector. It’s her kindness that wins him over and it’s his ability to stand up for her that makes Tiff fall in love with him. Yet, it’s the same past that has come to haunt them down and they have to overcome those obstacles in order to be together.

All in all, I enjoyed the romance and a hint of suspense in the story that had me at the edge of my seat. This is also an age-gap romance and it was interesting to see the characters navigate that aspect of their relationship. Tiff’s backstory is touching and it shows her resilience for wanting to see world. I would highly recommend checking out the book. I’m intrigued to see where the story leads to the next book in the series!

***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.***
Profile Image for Donna.
1,256 reviews12 followers
February 23, 2025
Eagles Hockey: Oak Ridge Vineyards #1

Tiffany "Tiff" Hernandez had a rough childhood, in/out of hospitals but survived. She's a nanny and is pursuing her degree while also taking care of her ailing parents, while barely getting by financially. While grocery shopping the man in front of her covered in dirt/grime from work didn't have any money or his wallet so she paid for his things and put part of hers back even though she really couldn't afford to do that. When she leaves the store he is there waiting for her and "makes her go with him" to his office so he can pay her back.
But Tiff has no idea who he really is or that he saw how she put back part of her things to help him.

Jean-Michel Dubois is the CEO of Titan Capital, owner of Oak Ridge Vineyards and the owner of the Eagles Hockey team. Of course Tiff is shocked but even more so when he shows up to her place bringing the food she put back.

This is the beginning of their story. He is very possessive and takes care of those he cares about and Tiff becomes one of them. He is very smitten with her and will do anything to make her life easier. She is slowly allowing him to help her and dropping her walls.
But everything is not so easy when someone from his past shows up.

4.25 stars
Profile Image for Sheila Fowler.
Author 40 books512 followers
February 18, 2025
Love a Good Meet-Cute
When Tiffany is waiting and waiting for the man in front of her to finally pay for his items at the grocery store, she feels bad for him that he doesn't have any money on him. And because Tiffany is the kindest girl around, she pays for his groceries out of her pocket. Unfortunately, that leaves her with less than she needed for her own groceries.

Jean-Michael (who I loved in Broken Laces), left his wallet and phone back at the vineyard. It was both his lucky day and Tiffany's when she paid for him. He practically kidnaps her to pay her back immediately. (Another cute moment).

It's the little things he does for her that turn into monumental things. Fixing her door. Making sure a drunk neighbor doesn't harass her any longer. Feeding her. And caring for her emotionally and physically.

They are a cute age-gap couple where the age-gap never really gets in the way. I love the side-story about his ex-wife Angela. I see there may be more to that story after this story ends. Jean-Michael was a fairy godfather in the previous book, and now he's Prince Charming. Adorable and so sexy!
Profile Image for Kelchickbooklover.
1,848 reviews66 followers
February 19, 2025
I was so excited to see that Ms. Faber had a new series coming out and she did not disappoint. Bottles & Blades is an age-gap, single father of an adult child, he falls first hockey and vineyard owner entertaining romance.
In Ms. Faber's fashion, she delivers characters who are relatable and a storyline that will have your full attention. As I turned the pages I fell in love with Jean-Michael. Talk about a man who knows how to take care of the ones he cares about. Meeting Tiffany was not on his radar but when her kind heart helped him he fell for her right then and there. Tiff is a struggling student, and nanny and has the world on her shoulders because of complications in her past she feels she is responsible for caring for her parents.
Their story is what fairytales are made of however Ms. Faber throws a twist near the end that will have you surprised. There are still some questions that I hope are answered in future books. This book is a standalone but there are characters from previous books by Ms. Faber. I'm excited to see what the next book in the series has instore for us.
Profile Image for Yugie Caroline.
193 reviews2 followers
February 21, 2025
I being a regular human being - one of the common folk living a simple, low-key life - a story about a woman of similar social standing being able to capture the love and adoration of a highly successful and gorgeous hunk of a man is definitely going to be addicting.. It's like basking in that adoration vicariously through the heroine's life, and my - in this book I reveled in that basking.

I so loved Tiff and Jean-Michel in this book. The way they met was just exceptionally unique, and it truly gave me a clear glimpse of how well they were going to fit and complement and be perfect for each other early on. Tiff's character was compelling: she's an remarkably strong and enduring woman shaped by a torturously trying life. But far from ruining her, it has made her resilient, grateful to be alive, and appreciative of all that she has. And Jean-Michel being immediately drawn to her, possessive and protective of her, and eventually, irrevocably falling hard and fierce for her - just.. swoon. Truly another impeccable work of literary goodness from Elise Faber.

I received an ARC of this book from the author and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Sharon Moritz-rosenthal.
2,257 reviews28 followers
February 24, 2025
I received a complimentary early release e-book prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.

This is an author I have not read in a long time. I decided to read this book because it seemed to be a bit different and it was the first book in a new series. I would probably call it more of a prequel to the series. Its a transition book from the hockey teams to this winery which is owned by JM.

I enjoyed the story and am really liking this new series. This was a great prequel story. I liked getting the backstory on all the character's I met in this book because I didn't read their stories. And the next book in this series I am totally excited to read.

This story has a HUGE age gap. I liked how this was addressed in this story. Especially as Tiff is a few years older than JM's daughter. I also loved catching up with Stefan and his wife and daughter. I loved how the family had made Tiff their own. I also loved how protective JM was of Tiff.

The ex wife who was supposed to be dead but wasn't and causes trouble, made this book all the more fun. This was a really fun book and I really loved it a lot.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Mazzie.
99 reviews1 follower
February 17, 2025
This is a super cute read! I really enjoyed it and finished it in one sitting. It’s an easy and quick read. It flows well and moves along very well. You meet a billionaire and a woman that is barely making it. She shows that she has a heart of gold when she comes across him in a store and he forgets his wallet. What she doesn’t know is who he is and when he takes her back to his vineyard to repay her she is stunned to find out who he really is. As things turn, he takes her under his wing. And stands up for her, takes care of her and shows her what it’s like to be really taken care of. She’s a girl that has to take care of her family due to her parents health situation and as a nanny to a little girl to finally have someone taken care of her, she really starts to learn who she is herself and that she really does care for this guy, even if he is double her age. There is a moment of suspense when something happens, but she keeps her cool and together they overcome what happens. This is a great read. You can read it in one setting. Highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Becky Wise.
2,723 reviews49 followers
February 19, 2025
Bottles and Blades is a fantastic read. First book in a new series and I cannot wait for more. I love all the familiar faces in this one. Jean-Michel is a single dad billionaire who has his fingers on everything from hockey to wine. He is so protective and cannot help but step in when someone is in need. Tiffany is a struggling student who is juggling taking care of her parents, her college classes and being a nanny for our favorite Gold hockey couple. She may be young but she has lived a lifetime and comes off older than she seems. I love the meet cute between Tiffany and Jean-Michel. This may be an age gap romance but they fit so well. I love the connection Tiffany forms with his daughter who is a few years younger than her. I love the added suspense that surrounds Jean-Michel's ex wife. I just love Jean-Michel and Tiffany together so much. Their chemistry is off the charts. I cannot wait to see where Eagles Hockey: Oak Ridge Vineyards goes from here. You need to one click this today.
Profile Image for Kayla.
533 reviews
February 20, 2025
I've been wanting Jean-Michael's story since he was introduced in this series. Seeing bits and pieces of him from other characters' perspectives and seeing how protective he is of those he loves was a sure sign that his story would be passionate and sugary sweet.

Somehow, it ended up being even better than I expected. These two were perfect for each other, and they had me laughing from the very start of their story. The forgotten wallet is something we can all relate to, and it ended up so much better for Jean-Michael than it would for any of us common folk, for sure!

The in the background story is not resolved in this one, and I'm so, so curious to where it will go from here. I don't think that Angela is the villain we've been lead to believe... and I'm going to go out on a limb and say we'll probably get her story at some point.

I highly recommend this one, but moreover, the series that cross over one another as a whole. I suggest starting from book one of the Eagles Hockey series because it's so worth it. Or even the beginning of Elise's backlog because you'll enjoy them all.
Profile Image for Nicole.
4,085 reviews50 followers
February 24, 2025
4.5 Stars
This is the first book in the Oak Ridge Vineyards series. We are are still a bit in the hockey world and some familiar faces pop up. Jean-Michel is known as the owner of the Eagles, but there is so much more to this silver fox. Tiffany has no idea what is instore for her when she helps out Jean-Michel. Her life takes such an unexpected turn. After all the hits life has thrown at her she deserves all the spoiling and pampering by Jean-Michel. Tiffany brings such a light and passion for life once again for Jean-Michel. There is an age age gap and factoring in the age of his daughter it may seem like it shouldn't work, but age is just a number and Tiffany feels like she has lived lifetimes. This book has a great combination of heart, heat, humor, and a touch of suspense. The banter between Jean-Michel and Tiffany was one of my favorite parts of the book. They are so adorable together. She brings out his protectiveness, but he turns into such a puddle for her. I highly recommend this one!
Profile Image for BookAddict.
1,957 reviews190 followers
February 24, 2025
This is only my second romance by this talented storyteller, and she won me over quickly with the charming Eagles hockey team members that feel like family. Now we get to watch the team owner find his match, and he falls nose over toes immediately.

Jean-Michael has been an enigma since we first met him, and he was not at all what I expected, yet so much more. I loved watching him fall for the sweet, kind-hearted nanny to one of his team member's daughter.

 Tiff certainly has a full life with her education, her nanny job, and her ailing parents who need full-time help. Despite it all, she's the kind of person who would let herself go without in order to help someone in need.

With a strong element of found family, good-natured banter, healing past hurts, the sweetest of love stories, and an intriguing billionaire team owner I couldn’t get enough of, this one has everything I love in a great romance read. Hypnotic, emotional, and entertaining, this one is guaranteed to make your romantic heart blissfully happy.
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