Dirty Flirt

Slayers Hockey #8

by Mira Lyn Kelly

Bad ideas are kind of my superpower...

I’m Ben Boerboom, the NHL’s favorite puck boy, and Lara's my slamming hot, former bestie. She's also the friend who got away and my dirty, dirty accomplice from those two insane weeks that weren't supposed to change anything... but did.

I wanted it all. Would have wrapped my forever around her finger if she'd let me. But if making bad decisions is my special skill, Lara's is making good ones... Like prioritizing her career goals and the kind of security she didn’t have growing up.

Hard pass on that kind of heartbreak again. So cue the bunnies. Years of bunnies.

Now Lara’s back in my city. Temporarily. And thanks to a burst pipe and a miscommunication with my sister, she’s living in my spare room.

A lot has changed, but two things haven’t. Her goals and the way she sometimes believes my bad ideas are good... like crossing those lines I swore we wouldn't cross again.

*All titles in the Slayers Hockey series are loosely connected but can be read as standalones.

Genres: Hockey Romance, Sports Romance, Hockey, Romance, Sports, Friends To Lovers, Audiobook

218 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 1, 2024

About the author

For Mira's latest book news, sign up for her newsletter at http://www.miralynkelly.com/newsletter

Hard core romantic, stress baker, and housekeeper non-extraordinaire, Mira Lyn Kelly is the USA TODAY bestselling author of more than a dozen sizzly love stories with over a million readers worldwide. Growing up in the Chicago area, she earned her degree in Fine Arts from Loyola University and met the love of her life while studying abroad in Rome, Italy… only to discover he’d been living right around the corner from her back home. Having spent her twenties working and playing in the Windy City, she’s now settled with her husband in rural Minnesota, where their four amazing children and two ridiculous dogs provide an excess of action and entertainment. When she isn’t reading, writing, or running the kids around, she loves watching the Chicago Blackhawks and action/adventure movies, blabbing with the girls, and cooking with her husband and friends.

Reviews

[Veronica Ticker · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was so close to perfection! And I can’t even say what was missing exactly.

Reformed playboy with a big heart: check. Ben was mostly adorable. To the point I had a hard time understanding why he slept with all those girls for all those years. As it was his most prominent trait since we first saw him in the series, this book was dedicated to showing who he really was. The things that made him tick. Extra swoon.

Strong-minded heroine: check. At first, I was afraid Lara would be too cold. Yes, she had goals, and yes, she worked hard to reach them, but she wasn’t so intransigent that she ignored the intense connection she had with Ben. I felt though that the reason why she set those goals, and why she left Ben when they were young, was a bit too far-fetched.

This may be the best friends to lovers romance I’ve read in a long time. Lara and Ben were really friends before they were lovers. That made their interactions easy and natural. Their connection ran deep. There was some banter, some heart to heart conversations, a lot of fun. And a strong attraction. Those little touches that ignited their heart and body were the cutest.

I also loved the way their relationship evolved. Every step forward seemed logical, and probably inevitable. And happened naturally. Ben and Lara were on the same page.

Which makes the fact that their problems come from a lack of communication even more annoying. They could talk about almost anything, but not their feelings for each other? I think that’s what bothered me the most.

The hockey part of the story wasn’t really important, but there were still a few interesting bits. Like the work Ben put in to come back after his injury.

In the end my fave book by the author in a long time.

Quickie

- Series: Slayers hockey #10 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #hockey romance #second chance romance #friends to lovers #roommates #reformed player
- Triggers: N/A
- Main couple: Lara Elliot & Benjamin Boerboom
- Hotness: 3/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + the way everything felt so natural between them
- – communication, guys, it helps!

[Julie Booklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick, fun read: I loved the reformed Playboy, forced proximity, second chance, with plenty of heat.
Ben and Lara were best friends in high school, then more, and quickly after that went their separate ways. Years later, they now find themselves roommates. Are there still feelings?

I was surprised how I took to Ben, I did not expect to like him as much as I did. Kudos to the author for writing him as she did.

Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.

[Mia S. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute! Boomer’s story with first Lara. Dealing with coming off injury and future, it was cute, could’ve went deeper but cute.

[SmutMistress · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Review:
4 ⭐️ 2 🌶️
I wasn’t sure I’d love Boomer’s story—his puck boy antics were more cringe than cute—but Mira Lyn Kelly scored big with this one. Ben Boerboom went from penalty box material to MVP of my heart, and Lara? She’s the ultimate playmaker, matching his charm, sass, and off-the-ice swagger. Their second-chance romance was the ultimate power play: clever, sizzling, and impossible to defend against.

From high school besties to accidental roommates, their chemistry hit harder than a slapshot, and their banter? Pure highlight reel. Ben’s golden-retriever devotion and Lara’s snarky resilience made every moment a hat trick of laughs, feels, and swoon. No unnecessary drama—just two people skating toward a well-earned HEA. Whether you’re here for the hockey or the heat, this story is a total buzzer-beater for the romance win.

[Bethany · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay, you know what? I was more on board with Boomer than I thought I’d be.

He wasn’t my favorite mmc of the series, but he was sweet and goofy and I liked him and Lara together. I do wish maybe it hadn’t relied quite so much on their past friendship, because it made it feel a little rushed/underdeveloped as so much of their relationship development wasn’t on the actual page. But in saying that, I did have fun and I was rooting for them.

And the hints about Static? Hehe give his book to me noooooow!! There’s been just enough hints that I’m intrigued, he still feels like a bit of a mystery but in a good way??

[Sarah (lou_reads_romance) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this!!
Lara and Ben are just perfect. I loved the honesty, the humour. The connection the author has managed to create between them is so believable that I couldn’t stop reading, smiling or admiring this pair!
There’s no major drama, no real angst it’s just two people who are obviously made for each other, once again discovering everything they love about their friendship and how much they belong together!

Ben is wonderful and Lara is a beautiful soul! It’s such a fun story….. don’t worry if you haven’t read any of the other Slayers you can totally read this as a standalone!
Now I’m excited to see what kind of pickle Static has gotten himself into!!

[Emily Rice · Rating 4 out of 5]

3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️

5/5 Reconnecting

This is really sweet. I like the concept of re-finding that lost love. I like that she is able to go have a satisfying career and she doesn't have to give up everything just to keep the guy. It does bum me out that his friendship with the D-Man is taking a hit. I wish I could have seen them get back on track after all the shit with his sister.

[Bookstash · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dirty Flirt by Mira Lyn Kelly (3/24)
[Slayers Hockey - 8] (A- Warm) 8-10-25]

My Chirp

Audible: Savannah Peachwood and Bradley Ford
Both Recommended

Chicago
Pro Hockey Romance - NHL

[cakecoffeeandbooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️

[Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Direct / Universal / Amazon / Apple / Nook / Kobo / Google



Ben and Lara were once friends, then more, but after they went their separate ways, each nursing pain caused by miscommunication and misunderstandings. Now they're temporary roommates and are having to navigate the awkwardness of forced proximity when feelings and attraction flare to life. But the same obstacles they had before - her dreams and his that do not intersect - still exist. Can they indulge in a little fling with certain expiration when she moves away to further her dream? Or will those pesky little feelings get in the way and cause them to re-examine what they really want?



Oh Ben! He's been so intriguing throughout this series, after his sister and Bowie's story, I knew for sure that when his own story came along, it would amazing. And damn it so is! Though "Boomer" has been through nearly all the bunnies in the league, his heart really only ever belonged to Lara, and when he finally got his second chance with her, he was not about to lose her again. The way he was so sweet with Lara and their surprise roommate, so damn swoony. His golden retreiver vibes were so yummy, I have to admit I was jealous of Lara. She was the perfect partner for him. They had a history of course, but what existed then exists still - meaning their chemistry and the way they "got" each other had only gotten stronger. I am so glad Ben finally got his own story, now I'm impatient for Static's story, DIRTY FIGHTER: A Slayers Hockey Novel.



ARC provided by Wordsmith Publicity for an honest review.

Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.

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[Lisa Broadman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have absolutely LOVED being in the Slayer world! I’ve loved these guys so much and couldn’t wait to get to know Boomer because he’s been such a hoot in previous stories. This is the story of Boomer and Lara who used to be kind of a ‘thing’ when they were in high school but then went their separate ways. This is truly a wonderful second chance romance that is just so easy. Both of the characters are simply awesome and I found myself just smiling as I read because I was happily invested in their story.

These two knew each other when they were in high school and got together for a brief fling right after HS. There were strong feelings there that neither shared with the other and when the summer was over and Boomer went off to play hockey and Lara went to college, each was a bit heart broken but never let that be known. In the years since they’ve seen one another, Boomer has built a great career and name for himself in the NHL and Lara has worked tirelessly to build a name for herself in her chosen career. Boomer has enjoyed the perks of stardom and the many bunnies that have come his way while Lara has focused solely on her career. When they have the chance to see one another again, neither is looking forward to it feeling as though the other walked away because they had no feelings for the other. That wasn’t true at all but neither knows that.

Lara is an absolute sweetheart who wanted nothing more than stability in her life and to accomplish her career goals. She has eschewed all else. Boomer, on the other hand, had worked just as hard in his career, but has also spent his time enjoying the bunnies and the many perks of stardom. Lara is perfect for Boomer in that she really seems to ‘get’ him and understand that there is way more to him than all of his craziness. Her challenge is deciding whether she has room in her life for someone she still loves or will her career goals squeeze him out.

Boomer is also a sweetheart underneath all his craziness. I didn’t expect him to be so sweet! Being around Lara day in and day out, helps him to realize that he has always had strong feelings for her that are still there. He is funny, kind and caring and really ‘gets’ Lara and what is important to her. He wants to truly help her accomplish her goals so that she can live her dream – even if it is far away from him.

I loved getting to see what Boomer was made of. His crazy didn’t mask crazy, it is just a part of his personality. We see him working super hard to come back from the terrible injury that has had him out for the past season and also dealing with his sister and BFF’s relationship. I think he’s a bit down about his place in life and Lara is the perfect boost for him. There is such a good feel and fun with this one, and for me, it was VERY hard not to love. This story doesn’t disappoint AT.ALL.

As always it’s great to get caught up with the other guys and I loved seeing a friendship develop between Boomer and Scratch. Looking forward to many more Slayers and seeing what’s in story for Boomer and Lara down the road!

[Luisa Rivas · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had a bit of trouble connecting to this story and liking the characters. Ben and Lara are childhood friends who had a moment of more during senior year in high school, but then went their separate ways, and there was no contact for all of eight years. Then Lara moves to Chicago for work, on her way to a promotion in New York City. She needed a place to stay, and Ben’s sister offered Ben’s apartment. I felt like a lot of their history was missing from the narrative, but forged on, expecting to learn more as the book evolved. That didn’t happen, so I couldn’t empathize with Lara’s drive for financial stability. There’s also a medical issue with Ben’s testicle, which is mentioned several times, but again, not much information.

All I had to go on is that Ben and Lara were best friends, they had sex in senior year, and agreed to part ways because they had different life goals. But why no contact in eight years? Why break a friendship that meant so much to both? Once together, the friendship flourished again, after some days of awkwardness, and yet, the author doesn’t include a heartfelt conversation where they disclose what happened and why. I love that Ben loved and accepted and was happy to have his friend back. I gathered he suffered from the usual stigma of ADHD children, that “he’s too much”, and Lara is one of the few friends who really understood him.

The book is supposed to be a standalone in an interconnected series, but too much information is missing to make it a complete standalone. This diminished my enjoyment of the series. Also, the missing clarification of the eight years of silence between the characters.

Ben is such a cute character, flirty, good times player, keeps a fun façade, great teammate. He partakes a lot of the puck bunnies buffet, to prevent serious relations. I felt all this was a defensive front given his impulsivity and the hurt caused by Lara’s abandonment. He’s quick to forgive, generous and loving. Witness the little whirlwind dog he adopted, Zamboni. Lara remained more unknown. She has a troubled relation with her father, not much information given here, very driven at her work. What redeems her in my opinion, is the acceptance and validation she gives Ben in his decisions and choices.

I read this author’s Back to You trilogy and loved it, and expected more of the same. Although the writing is just as good, the structure was not because of the missing information. Don’t say a book is a standalone if I need to read previous books to get the details! Even so, great writing, loved Ben, and it was entertaining.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

For years now we’ve been treated to glimpses of Ben “Boomer” Boerboom and his outrageous personality. The guy is absolutely adorable and I’ve been eager for him to finally get his story. And boy what a story it is.

Ben ends up with a new roommate, Lara, a woman who was once one of his closest friends and, for a very brief moment in time, so much more. The two fell out of touch and there were hurt feelings on both sides. Thanks to a slight mix-up, they find themselves sharing an apartment and reconciling their friendship.

I absolutely loved the way these two communicated with one another. Both of them were open and honest, with themselves and each other. And their journey from estranged friends to roommates to friends to more was such a breath of fresh air. Neither of them played games or let misunderstanding mess things up. Both Ben and Lara were so much fun to get to know and there wasn’t a moment I wasn’t pulling for them. They felt real and multidimensional. And lots of fun, too!

Something else I loved about this book was the chance to finally get a glimpse inside the mind of Boomer. He’s been such a presence in previous Slayer books and always so much fun. Getting to see what the guy was really like was great, and he turned out to be even better than I’d hoped. He’s a smart and sweet guy and the way he treated Lara was absolutely wonderful. Sigh. And Lara turned out to be the perfect match for him, a smart, driven woman with a loving heart.

I have to say was I was really impressed with how the author handled Ben’s story. As I mentioned, Ben’s been around the Slayer world for a long time now and I think a lot of readers were anxious for his book. Expectations have been pretty high. And Mira Lyn Kelly absolutely knocked it out of the park. (Oops! Maybe I should have used a hockey metaphor there instead?!) Ben and Lara’s romance was everything I could have wanted and more. I devoured this book in less than a day because I simply couldn’t put it down. Some books just suck you in so deeply and flow so effortlessly that you don’t want to surface until they are over. This was definitely one of those books. I could not recommend this one more.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I’d wait years for this woman if it meant that in the end, I got to keep her.”

Dirty Flirt was sweet, swoony, flirty deliciousness. Ben and Lara’s second chance love story is pure perfection and this lighthearted read is one of my favorite in this fun series.

“One night with Lara, hell, one kiss, and it was like my world went from black and white to color.”

Ben and Lara had been best friends in high school and after prom, they became more for a few weeks. Then they both went their separate ways, but after years of no contact, they found themselves being roommates. Old, dormant feelings rise to the surface, but can they both be honest about what they truly want?

“To me, you’re always going to be the guy with the biggest heart, the most creative plan, and the limitless generosity for the people you love. You’re the best guy I know.”

I didn’t expect to love Ben so much. He fell hard and was so much more than I thought he was. He was funny, sweet, kind, and caring and such a fun and genuine friend. Lara truly saw the man he was underneath and got him in a way that no one else did.

“She’s had me since we were eighteen years old. She took my heart. And no one ever had a chance at it again.”

Lara was a sweetheart. She longed for stability after an unstable childhood and was determined to accomplish her goals in life. I loved how Ben knew what was important to her and he was unwilling to let her compromise her dreams. His resolve to find a way for them to work was swoonworthy.

“You’re the girl who taught me what real love was, the friend who reminded me it was worth fighting for, and the woman I want to spend the rest of my life with.”

These two were friendship and relationship goals. They truly understood each other and supported one another unconditionally. Add in their white-hot chemistry and you have a match made in heaven. Dirty Flirt was a fun, uncomplicated read that left me with a huge smile on my face.

[lexs_book_recs · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love forced proximity, lost love, a playboy redemption arc and some super steamy smut scenes…this book is for you.

Ben and Laura are the epitome second chance romance. Ben, after just losing his sister and his best friend when they move out, now has to deal with the fact that the girl he has been in love with since high school..the one that he lost his virginity too, is now going to be his new roommate. Should be fine, right? Except for the fact that the chemistry between them is still there, and the fact that he knows what kind of attachments that she ordered to go with the little…toy that she got. Suddenly, being just friends is a lot harder for either of them to stick to.

From the very first scene in this book, I was cracking up. Mira has a way of making you so immersed in the characters storylines while seamlessly blending the storylines of characters from other books in a way that doesn’t make it seem too overwhelming. Ben and Laura just fit, from the moment both of them are in a scene together. The chemistry that they both have is something that a lot of authors try to recreate for their characters but seem to miss the mark on.

If you’re looking for a shorter read, this book is also for you. Topping out at 214 pages, it’s something that you can defiantly read in a day but is also long enough that the story line doesn’t feel rushed. Something that as a busy reader, i love to have when im devouring stories at work.

The smut scenes in here are STEAMY as well. The dirty talk alone was something that had my jaw dropping. Frankly Mira knows how to write and knows how to write it well.

This book is part of an amazing series and the best part is you dont have to read the rest of them to know what’s going on (Though I do highly recommend reading them). Honestly, great book from Mira and i cant wait to see what she has next!

[Trish- Late Knight Luna Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m all about the golden retriever energy in my books and Ben has all of that and more. “Dirty Flirt” is a sweet, flirty and emotional friends to lovers hockey romance that is a great addition to the Slayers series.

Ben Boerboom plays for the Slayers and has never committed to anyone, just endless nights to puck bunnies. There has always been one girl who got away but at the time both were going in different directions. However, Lara is now in Chicago, the latest place her job has taken her. And due to some apartment mishaps, she’s now Ben’s roommate.

From the first page, I was hooked on Ben Boerboom. His personality drew me instantly and I was just as enraptured with him as Lara was. Ben is genuine, kind and has a big heart. I loved how he was crushing on Lara for all those years but was respectful of her when she moved in, just in case she didn’t feel the same way. Lara was an instant like for me and I loved how she put herself first, went to college and focused on her career. The way these two came back together with his sister helping was so cute and was the best way to reunite them. You could tell from the beginning, they had a connection and that it ran deep. I loved their flirty banter and the back and forth flirty they did with each other. The communication between them is so good and they worked out their issues and feelings like adults which is so refreshing. The last couple chapters were so sweet and I loved their HEA. And the teaser we get for the next book has me counting down the days until it’s release.

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve had a number of MLK’s books on my TBR list for ages…. Man, what a mistake on my part… I should have been actually reading Mira’s books before now!!

I started this series way late I know but I’m actually really glad I started with Ben (Boomer) and Lara - though I’m definitely gonna be reading the other books in the series!

I ADORED this pair. Miscommunication is a pet peeve of mine but if these two hadn’t had that when they were 18 they wouldn’t have become the people they are now and know exactly what they want!!!

I liked that they took time to get to know each other and became friends again - especially after that awkward first meet up in present time (though I’m still feeling that this ‘mixup’ was maybe kinda deliberate on the part of Ben’s little sis!!!!)

I enjoyed seeing them get to know each other again, remember what it was they liked about each other and how they actually felt about the other before things fell apart.

Ben’s determination to not lose Elle again was just wonderful and seeing Lara realise what was important to her now just showed how much both of them cared and realised what they wanted.

This is one of my fave reads of the year. Seriously recommend and without doubt I’ll be reading this again soon.

* Grab the bonus scene and check it out…. Just another little piece that adds to this couples relationship!!!




** Thanks to Wordsmith Publicity & the author for an advance copy of Dirty Flirt. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Loved this so much I bough the ebook on release!! **

[Marni Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me just start by saying that I am typically someone who reads Dark Themed Romances pretty much 95% of the time . That being said whenever I’m looking to change it up Mira Lyn Kelly is always my go to author ( I’ve become quite obsessed with her Slayers Hockey Series , so imagine my excitement when I found out Ben was getting his own story and phew it does not disappoint. You know when you feel a pull to two characters from the very first page ,you can’t really put it into word but you find yourself becoming more and more invested. Well Ben and Lara just grabbed onto my heart and refused to let go . When we first met Ben in the previous book he seems like a bit of a playboy / player , but in Dirty Flirt we find out there’s so much more to him then meets the eye .High School Best friends, to first loves and then circumstances of which I’m not going to mention tore them apart for many many years . Now fate steps in and gives them a second chance at love . Will they get the happily ever after they both deserve ? What an emotional rollercoaster that plays on all your emotions in ways you won’t even be expecting. You’ll experience everything from being utterly speechless, to yelling outta pure frustration. Your heart will feel like it’s beating so fast and then bam being crushed with tears coming down your face , you’ll smile , you’ll laugh , you’ll be glued to the edge of your seat anticipating what will happen from one second to the next . And you’ll find yourself rooting so freaking hard

[Destany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book. All views are my own.

I love Boomer. Like, I've loved Boomer before this book, and I will continue to love Boomer long after this book. After Piper and Bowie, it was high time Boomer got his own story! And after his *ahem* issues, it's high time that story involved the Slayers resident playboy getting his heart handed to him.

Childhood friends who fell out of touch after a summer of, shall we say, "hooking up with no strings," Boomer and Lara are on completely different life paths - but that's all about the change. They end up roommates in a twist of fate so sweet, you know it's a rom-com! Unable to hide their attraction, they give in to their desires, but what happens when Lara has to leave?

Learning more about Boomer's backstory made me love him all the more, and hearing his thoughts on Lara and their past just made me smile. His willingness to do whatever it took for her was so sweet. The steamy times were great, and of course the banter! I'm a HUGE banter girl, and banter automatically makes any story better for me.

The Slayers are my favorite fictional hockey team, and I will always love every story and every character and every couple. The family formed by these players and their significant others is kind of a comfort thing for me. The banter, all around, is so much fun. They are there for each other and give each other grief. I look forward to seeing where the future lands us. Bring on more Slayers hockey!

[World Of Books 65 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get ready to fall head over heels in love with Dirty Flirt by Mira Lynn Kelly! This sizzling romance is guaranteed to put a spring in your step and a smile on your face. Who can resist the allure of a love story where best friends cross the line in high school, only to go their separate ways, yet the magnetic chemistry between them refuses to fade?

In Dirty Flirt, Ms Kelly introduces us to Boomer, a character we've come to adore from her previous stories in the Slayer series. He's the kind of guy you can't help but love, even when he's driving you crazy. And then there's Lara, the perfect match for Boomer in every way. The tension between them crackles with electricity, drawing you into their world and making you root for their happily ever after.

As the story unfolds, this author weaves a spellbinding tale of love, redemption, and second chances. You'll find yourself eagerly turning the pages, desperate to see Boomer and Lara finally find their way to each other. With her trademark wit and charm, Kelly delivers a romance that is as heartwarming as it is steamy.

Dirty Flirt is proof that Mira Lynn Kelly is a master of her craft. Once again, she has given us the perfect couple and the perfect story. So if you're looking for a romance that will leave you breathless and dreaming of happily ever afters, look no further than Dirty Flirt.

[Laura R · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ben and Lara used to be friends during high school, and even though they had a crush on each other, they didn't do anything about it… until one day they did, becoming each other's firsts. After that, things got a little awkward between them. Now, years later and due to Piper's involvement, Lara is going to be Ben's new roommate. The two of them are doing their best to keep things at a friendly level, but as they spend more and more time together, old habits from being best friends begin to come back. And, realistically, they were never really meant to be just friends.


I'm kind of sad that the Slayer hockey series is done because I really like these books. I love the friendship between Ben and Lara and how close the two of them are – all their little inside jokes and moments were super sweet. I love the dynamic, but what I also love is the fact that the two of them are both in their own heads saying that the other one doesn't want the other and it's just like honestly, if they communicated, they could have been together all this time. However, I love the fact that they're both concerned with maintaining their friendship and not messing any of that up. I love the spice, I love the romance, and I love the fact that we get a little glimpse at them at the end in the future. This was cute and sweet and I would definitely recommend this series.

Actual Rating: 4.5 stars

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into this book blind but this is part of a series of loosely connected standalones. This is book #10 but I didn't feel like I needed to read any of the previous books before reading this one. This book was overall written well and had some pretty good character development in it. I like both the main characters in this book and found myself smiling throughout this entire book. 

This is the story of Ben and Lara who used to be kind of a thing when they were in high school but then went their separate ways. Ben is a sweetheart under all his craziness. When he's around Laura all the time he begins to realize that he always had strong feelings for her. He is funny, kind and caring and really understands Laura and what is important to her. Laura is also so sweet and wants nothing more than stability in her life and to accomplish her career goals. She also gets Ben and understands there is more to him than all the craziness. Both of them have to decide if they are the right fit for eachother or if they just need to let each other go in order to accomplish their goals in life. If you enjoy second chance romance with sweet main characters then this would be a good read for you. 

Actual rating was 4.5 rounded up to 5 for this review

[Mary (Marysnoveljourney) · Rating 5 out of 5]

🏒Friends to Lovers
⭐️Second Chance
🏒Off Limits
⭐️OTT Golden Retriever Hero
🏒Roommates
⭐️Secret Crush
🏒Friends with benefits
⭐️Reformed Puck Boy
🏒Secret Relationship
⭐️Good Girl Bad Boy

WOW!!! I loved being back with the Slayers and Mira Lyn Kelly definitely scored a goal with Dirty Flirt. Although we’ve caught glimpses of Ben in past books, it was great to finally read all about him and learn what makes him tick. This book is number 10 in the Slayers Hockey series, but it can also easily be read as a standalone.

After a mix up with Lara’s housing, she ends up in Ben’s place. Normally that would be no big deal since they did used to be best friends. Unfortunately things are not quite that easy. Ben has feelings for Lara that go beyond friendship but he didn’t believe she could feel the same as he does. It gets harder to ignore the pull between them the longer their living arrangement lasts. Will they give in to what they both feel and want?

The banter and spice in this book were top notch and I loved the ending, but I still wanted more of Ben and Lara, I just loved them that much!!! I can’t wait to see what is next for the Slayers.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

Thank you to Mira Lyn Kelly and Wordsmith PR for the ARC of this book!!

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

This is the story of Ben and Lara. He is in the NHL and she used to be his very best friend. These two took a chance and for a couple of weeks everything was perfect. Until it wasn't. Ben was all in. He wanted the white picket fence, the entire nine yards. However now, Lara is on a mission to reach her future goals because she didn't have one lick of security growing up the way she did. And she moved away and Ben gave into the puck bunny lifestyle. Now Lara is back but just for a little while. But things are working in his favor if he wants to spend some time with her. She is now living in his spare room. He soon finds out that some things never change. Lara has always supported him and thought that even his bad ideas were good ones. And she is not totally opposed to crossing the line again. Will things be different this time or is Ben destined to a life without Lara? You have to read to find out because of course I can't tell you. This is a really cute second chance romance that will have you laughing out loud at times. This isn't a super long read and you will finish it in no time you are so engrossed in it.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG, Ben/Boomer and Lara's story--where do I even start???

So many highlighted bits!

So much LOLing!

So much pining and lusting after and finally--gratification :D

(And I do mean FINALLY. I thought we might all expire from anticipation there for a while.)

Just...so much. In the best kind of way, because every time Ben thought about how he'd been called a lot in his life (starting in kindergarten, because his saint of a mother would never) my heart cried a little.

But now he has Lara--for good--and Zamboni, and some other besties (besides the one who stole his sister two books ago and then traitorously moved out of their apartment in this one) and his future is back on track.

Though his new BFF Static might be in trouble...good thing his book is next! ;)

(Also--this didn't fit anywhere else but I felt I had to share--I absolutely love how Ben and Lara resolved their possible relationship conflict with the best of all compromises. They really are--as Ben says in the epilogue--#Goalz.)

Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I know what it means to live without you. Really without you. It wasn’t living. It was existing. Passing time until you brought the meaning back. And I never want to live that way again.”

Did anyone have Boomer demolishing their heart on their 2024 bingo card?! Cuz I didn’t, but swoooooon! I will never tire of Slayers Hockey love stories! Mira Lyn Kelly has written another top shelf hockey romcom with Boomer and Lara’s HEA, Dirty Flirt. Lara Elliot and Ben “Boomer” Boerboom were childhood friends turned highschool fling before life sent them down divergent paths. Despite a medical setback last season, Boomer is back on the ice. Now that his former best friend has landed back in his life (and living in his home), Ben is rethinking his bunny-centric lifestyle. After some extensive convincing, Lara reluctantly decides to stay with her teenage crush. I loved the magnetism between these two from the moment they’re reunited. Their witty & flirty banter was top notch. The playful and loving friendship they rekindled bloomed authentically to reveal their forever love. The way Lara said eff it and CLAIMED him for all (the stick slųts) to see had me out of my seat & cheering! Dirty Flirt is an excellent best friend’s brother, second chance, spicy hockey romance.

[Bonnie G. · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was much better than the last in the series, Dirty D-Man. These characters were more likable and they communicated rather than opting for passive-aggressive silliness. The last book was just stupid with the non-communication thing, which I hate. Here people were clear in acknowledging their attraction. The issue was that one character did not want to set down roots yet, and so anything had to be temporary. Both of them knew their long and highly valued friendship would likely not survive if they became romantically involved and then the MMC left so they tried to set boundaries. It was a nice story. There was lots of room for character development for the FMC, which would have made this better. There was a lot more focus on the MMC character, and we knew a lot about him from the last book too -- though in the last book he was terrible so this book had to make him appealing and that took work, There was very little effort helping us to better know the FMC. We know she came from a poor family and that she is focused on professional success and economic stability in part as a result of that. We know nothing else, and it would be great if we did. Still it was fun and it was short. No regrets.

[Rae Latte · Rating 4 out of 5]

Are you in the mood for a friends to lovers, second chance hockey romance set in the Slayers Hockey series?

🔥🏒 𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐒 🏒🔥

✔ Friends to Lovers
✔ Second Chance
✔ Off Limits
✔ OTT Golden Retriever Hero
✔ Roommates
✔ Secret Crush
✔ Friends with benefits
✔ Reformed Puck Boy
✔ Secret Relationship
✔ Good Girl Bad Boy
✔ Smexxy times in inappropriate
places
✔ Spicy ☕🔥🔥🔥 This is best enjoyed with your favorite iced-beverage, a cozy chair, and maybe a fan.

When Lara needs a place to crash and winds up at Ben’s apartment … the past will resurface that could have a lasting impact on their happy reunion?

Is Ben still a hot hockey playboy? Or, does Laura have it all wrong? Lara will discover a secret that will change everything.

A fun, flirty, sexy read where friendships are tested, boundaries are drawn, and assumptions could ruin everything.

Every Mira Lyn Kelly book is a spicy satisfying read and this one is a great read anytime! Don't be surprised if you suddenly find yourself in the kitchen baking 😉.

*All titles in the Slayers Hockey series are loosely connected but can be read as standalones.

I received an advance reader copy for an honest and fair review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[LibriMagnetici Blog · Rating 3 out of 5]

recensione a cura del blog “Libri Magnetici" by Milly
La serie continua, questa volta con protagonista Ben, il playboy del gruppo, e la sua storia personale che ci porta a scoprire lati inediti del suo passato. In questo romanzo conosciamo meglio Ben attraverso il ritorno improvviso di una figura importante nella sua vita: Lara.

Sono passati otto anni da quel giorno in cui le loro strade si sono divise, otto anni durante i quali ognuno ha seguito la propria via, lasciandosi alle spalle un legame che aveva superato i confini dell’amicizia. Ora Lara è di nuovo davanti alla sua porta, in cerca di un posto dove stare. Inizialmente era stata invitata da Piper, sorella di Ben, ma un trasloco improvviso la porta a dover convivere proprio con lui.

Non so se ce la farò mai a guardarla senza vederla come più di un’amica. Ma anche se quella linea tra amicizia e qualcosa di più c’è ancora e potrebbe esserci sempre, è un limite che non oltrepasserò di nuovo.

La convivenza riaccende ricordi che entrambi avevano cercato di dimenticare. Nonostante il tentativo di ristabilire un rapporto d’amicizia, l’attrazione che li lega è difficile da ignorare, e mantenere le distanze diventa ogni giorno più complicato.

Accidenti, quel sorriso. Mi fa un certo effetto. Mi suscita una sensazione al petto simile a quella che si prova stando in cima alle montagne russe, e cazzo, una parte di me vorrebbe alzare le braccia e cedere alla gravità.

Rispetto ai precedenti, questo romanzo ha un ritmo più lento e un tono più riflessivo. La trama è lineare, senza grandi colpi di scena, e forse proprio per questo mi ha lasciato un po’ con l’amaro in bocca: avrei voluto qualcosa di più coinvolgente o inaspettato. Detto ciò, i personaggi sono ben costruiti e il punto di vista alternato permette di entrare nella mente di entrambi, cosa che ho apprezzato molto.

Una lettura piacevole, anche se meno dinamica rispetto ad altri titoli della serie.

«Le emozioni erano alle stelle» aggiunge Lara. «Esatto. E poi, prima che ci fosse la possibilità che le cose si stabilizzassero un po’, è scaduto il tempo.» «Non avevamo la prospettiva per giudicare cosa stava succedendo.»
tre petali e mezzo

[Sharon Moritz-rosenthal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary early release e-book prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.

This is a sports romance, second chance romance between two old best friends who now are roommates in Chicago. This is Ben's story, and it pairs him with his high school best friend, Lara.

Ben has a great apartment, has a rocking hockey career, great friends and family. His life is awesome except his roommates, his sister and bestie are dating and in love. They decide to get their own place and invites his ex-one-night stand from high school who was also his bestie, to move in when they move out.

Lara was an interesting character. She has always crushed on Ben but their one night destroyed their friendship and is hoping to get it back when she moves in with Ben. But Ben wants more than friendship. Can they make it happen and if they do what can happen to their hearts?

This was a wonderful second chance romance without jealousy or drama, which I loved. Both were awesome characters that I was so happy they found each other. There are lots of fun times, as two try to reclaim their friendship and decided if they want a second chance with each other.