Power Play

August 11, 2008
Martin’s uneven seventh New York Blades romance (after 2008’s Just a Taste
) mixes professional hockey with the high-pressure, high-drama world of daytime soap opera. Soap actress Monica Geary’s lofty position is threatened by a reputation as a recluse and a slutty new co-star, and new Blades player Eric Mitchell (brother of Chasing Stanley
’s protagonist Jason) wants to win over fans and teammates. They strike a deal: pretend to be a couple for increased mutual publicity. When they start to develop a real attraction, Mitchell panics and breaks it off, but then realizes he’ll do anything to get Geary back. Martin’s attention to detail enlivens her portrayals of actors, writers, players and fans, but Mitchell’s fumbling courtship and Geary’s harsh mockery are a little too realistic; the stars’ glamour and chemistry may not be enough to keep readers engaged through the bouts of petty sniping and selfishness.

September 15, 2008
In the latest installment in MartinsNew York Blades hockey team series, Eric Mitchell has been traded to the Blades. He believes he isnumber one no matter what, but things are not going well, sohe must try toingratiate himself with the team and his fans. Daytime diva Monica Geary has a similar problem. She has reigned so long at the top of the soap-opera heap she hasnt engaged in much fan face-time. Now a new cast member, a sweet young thing, threatenstodethrone Monica. Eric and Monica meet when he makes a cameo appearance on theBlades favorite soap. She has no interest in him or his corny come-ons, butbecause they both need the good press, they decide to fake becoming an item. Soon both are immensely popular, but Monicagets confused. Is she falling for the real Eric or afantasy man? Displaying her usual strengths in character and story line, Martin definitely reigns at the top of her game.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2008, American Library Association.)