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I started somewhere new, giving Reese and myself a clean slate. I found a job I loved and met three guys who made me feel alive. I should’ve been prepared for life to smack me upside the head again, but in my defense, I’d been a little distracted by my hot roommates and trying to win games.

My life had become a mess, and I didn’t know where to start. Everyone wanted something from me, and it was hard to know whom to trust. The one thing I thought I could count on was hockey, but it no longer felt safe—not after the secrets and lies I’d uncovered.

The pressure was suffocating, and I knew I had to make a choice soon and pray it wasn’t wrong… or someone might end up dead. Hockey was meant to be only a game, but this time, it looked like we were playing for keeps.
This is book 2 in the series. Penalty Box must be read first. This book does end on a cliffhanger. This is a contemporary why-choose hockey romance intended for 18+ due to language and content. This book deals with some dark themes that might be triggering. Please read the foreword for more details.

454 pages, Paperback

Published April 22, 2023

122 people are currently reading
258 people want to read

About the author

Kris Butler

48 books400 followers
Kris Butler writes under a pen name to have some separation from her everyday life. Writing has become her second love, providing a safe place to normalize mental health through her characters. Kris enjoys writing emotional books with flawed characters, sassy heroines, and all the book boyfriends she loves to drool over. You can find her at home most nights reading with her husband and furbaby, trying to maintain her nerdy sock collection, or playing tabletop games with her friends. Kris loves to talk with readers about her books, even if it’s just them yelling at her for that cliffhanger. If you enjoyed her book, please consider leaving a review. You can find her in her reader group or on social media.

Follow Kris's journey as an author on Instagram (@authorkrisbutler) and Facebook, and join her reader group (Kris Butler's Misfit Penguins) for exclusive content.

If you enjoyed her book, please consider leaving a review.

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5 stars
207 (38%)
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194 (35%)
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110 (20%)
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25 (4%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
Profile Image for Kristina.
711 reviews19 followers
April 16, 2023
Kris Butler has done it again.
Dead Lift starts off where we left off from the last book and you find yourself drawn back into Henley story. Once you start reading you wont want to stop. So clear your schedule, pour yourself a drink of choice and settle in.

This story is riveting and if you love sports RH romance where you never know what will happen next, go grab a copy. You won't regret it.
Profile Image for Kate McDougall Sackler.
1,741 reviews15 followers
September 20, 2023
I liked this one a bit less than the last just because it felt more politics driven. I did love the deepening of the bromance and the solidification of their joint bond. Thank goodness the last book is out because this one leaves off on a doozy of a cliffhanger!
Profile Image for The_Book_Brat.
947 reviews163 followers
April 17, 2023
Who to trust??!!
*Reverse Harem
*Contemporary
*Multi-POV
*hockey plotline
*academy setting
*secret society
*found family
*building harem (3)
*fast burn 🔥
*2/3
Oooooffttt I LOVE how Kris’ books constantly keep you guessing! Who is out to help or hinder? What’s the end game? Whose friend or foe?
This second book picks up instantly after the first book with the locker room drama and the intended impact of this, thankfully it brings to light some people’s true colours especially with the events that follow with them team 😡😡 although this seems to be the catalyst for further events that really attempt to put Hadley down 😠 thankfully her harem get behind and it’s great to see them really start to gel as a unit and become brothers themselves 🥰 and oh boy are those team building exercises delicious to read 😛😛you also get more insight into their own individual stories for some of them, and inklings for others, but it gives you the extra insight into their characters 😃😃 I also love the new side characters and especially the girlfriends in this book 😌 there’s a good mix between the hockey and coaching aspects and the wider story here 👍🏻
Things begin to get even more complicated when Hadley and Reese’s mother turns up and then there’s the whole issue with the weekend away that poses more questions than answers for the group!!
Can’t wait to see what the finale brings 😄
280 reviews6 followers
April 16, 2023
I freaking loved this book! This whole series is amazing! I loved that this book truly left you on the edge of your seat because of the suspense to know what is going to happen and I promise you that you will not have a clue, and I love that. It keeps you guessing which makes it enjoyable. It was great to see the development between hen and her men. That cliffy at the end is phone throwing worthy but completely worth it and the wait for book three. And it was the most amazing thing ever seeing the cameos of the other characters from the original series that started this whole world. Every time one of them showed up I did a happy dance and fist pump in the air lol. I highly recommend this book and series. You will not regret it and it will leave you hooked and wanting more!
Profile Image for Shawna Jimenez more.books.forever.
1,858 reviews87 followers
April 24, 2023
Another mark in the win column for me! We pick up right where we left off from book one! I freaking love Henley’s strength the way this author writes some amazingly strong FMCs is brilliant! I love that we get to see this harem growing and building and how they all start to work with one another. There is no question about how any of them feel about Henley they are there for her every step of the way and backing her up supporting her anyway they can! This is one of those series where it will keep you on the edge of your seat in your toes and your head on a swivel you have no idea who you can trust and who is genuine. The cliffy will have you wanting to break something and scream and I cannot wait for the next book!
Profile Image for MK.
97 reviews9 followers
April 24, 2023
Love love LOVE this book, this series, this author!!

This book has all the things I love! Hockey, multi POV, secret society, RH and fast burn 🔥

This book book had me constantly trying to guess what was about to happen next. What does Hen’s mom have planned for her and her sibling? Ekk! Idk!

There is so much love within the harem and they are growing more and more as a found family. We see a lot of relationship growth and individual growth as the guys open up more and Henley takes control of what she’s able and make the best choices she can.

This book ends on a cliffy and umph!! I kinda wanted to scream!! Can not wait for the next book!!
Profile Image for RainChaser.
117 reviews
April 20, 2023
This series keeps getting better! I love Henley and her guys and how they support each other through the challenges they each face.

The cliffy on this one is bigger than book one and I can’t wait for book three to see how it’s resolved!

Go Blizzards!
Profile Image for claire dovey.
67 reviews2 followers
April 17, 2023
I really enjoyed this second installment in this series. The relationship development was lovely to see and I enjoyed meeting the side characters of Susie and Scarlet 😀

I like how Kris makes her characters 'real', and by that I mean they all have their own flaws and moments of doubt. I like that they aren't 'perfect' and seeing Henley's men rally around her is awesome.

A bit of a cliffhanger at the end but I think I can see where it is going but I NEED the explanation to what is going on with Fletch and what the Society actually is. So many questions that need to be answered, I can't wait for the third (and I believe final book in the series) for answers to questions and hopefully for lots of fun times with Henley and her men 😉

I received an ARC of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily
37 reviews1 follower
April 21, 2023
I loved it!!! Just stayed up all night reading!!! Started when I put my kiddo to bed...My eyes are itching, but I couldn't stop reading... every time I tried to quit the next chapter just beckoned me to read more!!!

This book was absolutely amazing! I love all of the characters and how much they have grown in this book!! The spicy scenes are phenomenal too!!! Plus the added comraderie from new characters and older ones being sprinkled in!!
Profile Image for Ashley Butler.
310 reviews
April 28, 2023
Whoa, things just went from 0 to 60 fast! The box picks up from where the first in the series left off. Along the way, Henley slowly takes control of everything that piling against her even tho it seems like it's never ending. Henely grows closer to her guys, and even Dax starts opening up towards her. I'm really anxious to find out what Fletcher to hiding. And also what is going to happen with the society! Can't wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Debra.
70 reviews4 followers
April 23, 2023
Arc Review

Our second book in this series didn't disappoint. It opens us to a few questions, but what good storyteller doesn't do that for you? Henley gets a lot of support from her guys. She gets a lot from her boss. She even gets it from her sibling. Dax finally realizes what his truth is and what his heart wants, now to find the right way to say it. Reed brings things out in the open and faces his truths. But I think there is one he is not ready to admit as of yet, but we will see. Fletcher is the biggest surprise in this installment. Though he was the first most open about most things in life and love, something is lurking. Will it hurt, or will it strengthen the group, and why do I feel there may be something big coming out for someone else when his truths fully come out of hiding another we'll see. Finally, have we heard the last from our trouble makers, the society, the ex, and of course, her mother—all good things to wonder about and see what happens when we meet them again in the next book?

I love the cameos. I can't wait for the next book and wonder what's left for our Lux Family.
Profile Image for Rachel Stephens.
2,341 reviews42 followers
April 26, 2023
What a great way to continue the series!
This books up where book 1 left off...
There was a bit of a mystery regarding the "council". We also got more drama, humor, and steam. Throw in a few twists and it kept me turning the page.
Henley continues to get crap thrown at her throughout the story, but she still continues to pick herself up. With the help of the guys she keeps fighting.
I thought this book also focused on the growing relationship between Henley and her men. Reed, Fletcher and Dax really stepped up and were a great support system. The spicy scenes were hot!!🥵 I loved seeing them come together as a true family
That ending left me with more questions. I need book 3 as soon as possible!!
Profile Image for Danielle Jensen.
179 reviews4 followers
May 3, 2023
Book 2 picks up right where book 1 ended. I loved seeing more of Henley coaching. And I adored meeting her & Reed's hockey playing friends, who came up to help with the school's hockey program. There were so many times I laughed out loud at their interactions with each other.
Henley & the guys are getting closer & more open with each other as the book progresses. I have a soft spot for Dax seeing how vulnerable he is as he falls in love with Henley. Loved the moment when Reed scatters his mother's ashes, it feels like a real healing moment for him. And then there's Fletcher. What secrets will we learn about him in book 3? Between him and the Society gearing up for their final move against Henley, we have another cliffhanger to ponder on until book 3 comes out.
Profile Image for Samantha Hickey.
1,978 reviews48 followers
June 16, 2023
I am so in love with Henley's story!!

Dead Lift is book #2 in the Lux Brumalis series. This is a dark why choose hockey romance. Make sure to read the trigger warning.

Kris Butler always knocks it outta the park!

We pick up where we left off in Penalty Box and holy crap this story is addictive, you won't want to stop reading! Kris keeps you guessing the whole time, and right when you think you know what's going on, she throws you off again! Henley and her guys have my heart and I love watching their relationships strengthen and grow.

And that cliffhanger has me so ready for the next book!!!

If you love hockey romance, and if you love why choose, this is a must read! If Kris Butler writes it, I'm one clicking it!
Profile Image for Deb Barringer.
590 reviews4 followers
May 1, 2023
Dead Lift is Kris Butler's second installment in her fantastic Lux Brumalis series. Picking up where book one left off, this episode takes us on a wonderful rollercoaster ride that ends in yet another tantalizing cliffhanger.

The storyline is fast-paced and very well written, filled with twists and turns, plots, ploys, danger, lies, manipulations, intrigue, subterfuge, romance and some seriously hot:sex. The characters are well developed and completely engaging. Henley is really coming into her own as she and her guys further solidify their relationship. Overall, a great addition to a terrific series!
202 reviews2 followers
May 2, 2023
Another great one from Kris Bulter!

We pick up right where we left off from book one, with that crazy cliffhanger. I love Henley’s strength - as always, Kris writes an amazing and strong FMC. In this second book, we get to see this harem growing and starting to work with one another. There is no question about how they feel about Henley - they are there for her every step of the way.

This is one of those series where it will keep you on the edge of your seat and you have no idea who you can trust. In true Kris style, the cliffhanger will have you wanting to break something and I cannot wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Kayla.
729 reviews7 followers
July 7, 2023
Loved it!

Dead Lift by Kris Butler is book two in the Lux Brumalis trilogy. This trilogy is a why choose sports romance that follows the story of Henley and her three guys: Fletcher, Reed, and Dax. If Lux Brumalis sounds familiar to you, it should. It is the school that The Council series takes place at. We do get to see little crossovers of Sawyer and her men in this book. Which I absolutely adore and love. I loved this book even more than the first if that's possible. The character growth so far has been amazing and makes me love each character even more. This book will leave you needing to know how it's all going to end.
Profile Image for Courtney.
263 reviews8 followers
August 14, 2023
Oh my goodness this series!!!!! Immediately after I finished the first book I downloaded this one and now I just downloaded the third and final book!! It really is a page turner because every time I would say I’m going to stop at a certain point, I found I couldn’t. I did like the first one a bit better than this one because the first one focuses more on hockey which I am all here for and this one also does, but there is also a bit more going on. Henley is still one of my favorite characters and I love how close she and Reese are!I cannot wait to see where this book series ends up!! I’m so addicted to this series!!!
Profile Image for ChristiLovesBooks_smut.
1,802 reviews43 followers
October 20, 2023
So good!

Dead Lift, book 2 of Lux Brumalis by Kris Butler @authorkrisbutler - Kris is a relatively new to me author. This book does end on a cliffhanger! Read the trigger warnings!

Even though the book is over almost 450 pages, it was a quick read that I loved! Onto book 3.

This book picks up right after the ending of book 1. Henley, Dax, Fletcher & Reed continue to grow closer to each other. The board of directors at the school is cleaning up/out the coaches & students that are causing issues. Henley’s ex is up to no good. Henley turns down an offer that could possibly have helped her with her ex.

To be continued in book 3!
2,607 reviews15 followers
May 8, 2023
This second book was absolutely everything I didn't know I wanted. I am so in love with this sportsromance and I am such a sucker for these types of books. We can read more about henley and what happens after the first book. How she is building a new life and with her sibling who is so well written. Now fighting for what is right for Reese thankfully the guys stand behind Henley and support her. What I know is we get more background info on the guys and why they are the way they are. Now onto book 3 and I can't wait for it.
Profile Image for Amanda J.
534 reviews6 followers
April 26, 2023
This was a legit banger!! Omg... fantastic! I absolutely adored Henley and her men. Having them become a more cohesive unit was absolutely adorable. Henley was always a strong and brave woman, so having her go through everything I really wanted to just hug and make it better. But I am so glad her men were there. They stepped up and props to them....can I swoon for them more?! The storyline was entertaining, suspenseful, romantic, and real spicy. This is a must-read!!
Profile Image for Bianca M.
918 reviews10 followers
April 30, 2023
CLIFFHANGER ALERT!

This book is amazing. The cliffhanger I just got dropped off of? Grand Canyon sized. OMG! I can’t believe how much the story is developing and the plot has me sucked in. (Nobody tell Kris Butler but I teared up a little. Just a little though.)
The characters feel like real people and the writing makes me feel like I’m not just reading the story, I’m a part of it. I can almost convince myself I can ice skate.
Profile Image for Sandy Demuynck.
521 reviews9 followers
May 3, 2023
I love hockey books and this series is just off the charts.

Not only is it about hockey but also secret society.

We see Henley take charge of everything that was against her (it seems never ending).

I loved the blooming of this relationship. Even Dax that is starting to open up.

The ending had a cliffhanger that I need answers for with Fletch.

I do love Henley and her men.

Kris Butler has amazing writing skills she makes the character so real, flaws and all.

It makes me so invested into her books.
Profile Image for Livinintechnicolor (Alpha Addict).
370 reviews13 followers
May 3, 2023
Wonderful Book, Loving the Series
Henley just can’t catch a real break. Just when she thinks things might be turning in her favor, The Society strikes again. Absolutely love the dynamics among the foursome! But what in the world is going on now with Fletcher?!?! Mr Communication seems to be keeping the biggest secret of all. Ugh. The cliffy wasn’t painful but just made me gasp. Can’t wait for the next book!! Well played Ms Butler :).

5/5 ⭐️
3/5 🌶
Profile Image for Viv .
113 reviews1 follower
August 1, 2023
4.5 stars
I was really glued to this book. I didn’t love book 1 but was willing to continue the series with the next book and Im so glad I did. It was such an improvement with so much character development and suspense. The added mystery and challenges of the men’s past coming back to haunt them strengthened the plot and kept me on edge. I love that each individual relationship progressed in its own way and you could see Henley’s growth as well.
Also, the spice was spicing 🌶️ iykyk
Profile Image for Quinn.
310 reviews
December 5, 2023
This is more a review for the entire series. This was the equivalent to watching reality TV - which we know isn't good television but you can't look away from. Found=family/poly relationship. It's ok for smut just to be smut - but this book was trying to be a plot-heavy story when it has no business being a plot-heavy story. Tell me where there are/is a secret society, hit-men, sabotage, private investigators, drug-dealers seeking revenged, blackmail... this was trying to be too much.
Profile Image for Angie.
775 reviews2 followers
June 8, 2024
Non Stop Innuendos

There’s only so many secret society plots you throw out there before it gets old
There’s tad to much everybody’s out to get us, how much adversity do you have to throw out at one person before it’s too much. And that’s where we this cliffhanger. Why hasn’t this super security company, that has ties to the coaching staff not put in their 2 cents.
On the flip side, the personal relationships and character building keeps you wanting more
Profile Image for Juju.
405 reviews97 followers
April 19, 2023
4.5 stars

This is the 2nd instalment of the Lux Brumalis series, its a Reverse Harem Sports Romance (Hockey)

Plenty of suspense and steam in this book, loved the relationship development, the whole family dynamics, and dramas that played out. That Cliffhanger..omg!!!

I need answers now! I highly recommend this series.

Thank you to the Author, for providing me with this ARC.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews

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