I kept my nose clean. Bad publicity was the last thing you wanted, and I’d had my share since my last breakup went public. We’d also just lost our last five games.
The boys and I decided to head to the islands for a little R&R. I’d never been so happy for a break. That was where I saw her. She didn’t seem to recognize me, which made it better, so I made my move. We didn’t exchange names or numbers. We shared one carefree night, that was all I wanted and that was all it was supposed to be.
A few months later, regret from that night had almost eaten away at me. I hadn’t been able to get her out of my mind. I wouldn’t say I fell in love with her, or maybe I did. All I knew was that night was the closest I’d ever come to insta-love and I wanted more but we’d had our fun. Yet, I was still mentally kicking myself for at least not getting her name.
We're about to head into the playoffs when I return home and that is when the universe decides to bring us back together in one of the worst places ever. Only this time won’t be like the last, I decide I won’t let her slip through my fingers. This time, I’ve promised myself nothing, and all bets are off.
USA Today Bestselling Author S.L. Sterling was born and raised in southern Ontario.
An avid reader all her life, S.L. Sterling dreamt of becoming an author. She decided to give writing a try after one of her favorite authors launched a course on how to write your novel. This course gave her the push she needed to put pen to paper and her debut novel "It Was Always You" was born.
When S.L. Sterling isn't writing or plotting her next novel she can be found curled up with a cup of coffee, blanket and the newest romance novel from one of her favorite authors.
In her spare time, she enjoys camping, hiking, sunny destinations, spending quality time with family and friends and of course reading.
This sports romance is a real juicer. Members of the Dominators are at play here in this amazing storyline, especially Dylan’s. He’s on a break in Mexico with his friend Knox and co player when he meets Aurora who’s on a soul searching journey after a breakup with her ex Greg. She’s there with five of her friends and wants to live it up for the first time in her life. She wants to be a free spirit like her mom and experience something new. Dylan has set his sights on her at the local bar and so as Aurora . She’s terrified of her reaction to him but they both agree to a one-night of passion without names or further rendezvous. Little do they know what awaits them. This story deals with complexities such as: divorce, multiple marriages that have failed, controlling behaviours, abandonment, parents that have failed their children. The emotions are high and life choices are put to the test. This author knows how to deliver it all, she captivates your interest from the beginning. A real page-tuner you don’t want to miss! A most recommended reading and a 5 ⭐️ rating!
A super addictive hockey romance. I really enjoyed this addictive, fast paced, quick read. Aurora and Dylan meet while away on vacation. One night. No names. No further contact. Though fate seems to have other plans for these two. Aurora is currently finishing up school in hopes of being hired by the Dominators hockey team, along with her best friend. Dylan plays for the Dominators. He finally finds the woman he's been dreaming of since his vacation. Kicking himself for not getting any kind of contact information at all from her. Reconnecting with Aurora is a tale in itself. I really enjoyed the characters and storyline. It was funny, sweet, insane and at times pure freaking mayhem. I'm so glad I got a chance to read this book. Looking forward to what comes next. 5stars.
This book is a must read, page turner, and has all the feels. What turned into a night of just fun for Aurora and Dylan, could possibly turn into more. They meet on a girls vacation Aurora is taking with friends. No names provided. Aurora is going to school for sports therapy and Dylan is part of a hockey team. Wait til you find out what happens when they meet again almost a year later. Now that’s not only a shock, but also hilarious. Watch how their friendship plays out. Their chemistry and the way they are with each other is electric. They compliment each other so well. Is there a possible long term commitment for Aurora and Dylan? Wait til you find out!
I absolutely annoyed this book! Dylan and Aurora were pure chemistry. They happen to meet while both are in a vacation in Mexico and the sparks fly! No names are exchanged and they go their separate ways but Dylan can’t for get the beauty.
Fast forward a year and they happen to meet up but in the most unexpected way. Nice twist here! There is a little family drama and angst. But these two are so great together.
Aurora goes on a girls trip and tries to reclaim herself doing things in ways she’s seen her mom do to get over a breakup.. only to come face to face with Dylan again months later. This was a quick fun juicy story and I loved all the characters! I really want to know more about Knox and Lorelai. You can never go wrong with a hockey romance. I did feel like it was over too soon so hopefully the second book gives a little moreeee!
If you're a fan of hockey romances, brace yourself for a thrilling ride with S.L. Sterling's "Inside the Penalty Box," the first book in the Vancouver Dominators series. As someone who adores this genre, I was instantly captivated by the story, and it has quickly become a standout favourite.
From the moment we meet Dylan, the centre for the Dominators, it's clear he's a man who knows what he wants and isn't afraid to go after it. Dylan's character is everything you could hope for in a male lead—he falls hard and fast, and his determination is unwavering. His journey begins at a holiday resort in Mexico, where a chance encounter with Aurora changes everything.
Aurora, stepping out of her comfort zone on this trip, is nudged by her friends to embrace the unexpected. This leads her to a magical, nameless night with a handsome stranger whose eyes she couldn't resist. The chemistry between them is electric, and the connection they share is palpable. However, the morning brings a twist of fate—Dylan wakes up to find Aurora gone, with no way to contact her.
Just when it seems like their paths might never cross again, fate steps in. The circumstances are anything but straightforward, but that will not stop Dylan. His determination is as fierce off the ice as it is on, and his single-minded pursuit of Aurora is both heartwarming and thrilling. But the road to happily ever after (HEA) is anything but straightforward. The story is filled with twists and turns, keeping you on the edge of your seat and rooting for this couple to find their way back to each other.
Aurora is a character you'll adore. Her bravery in stepping out of her comfort zone and her genuine connection with Dylan make her a heroine worth cheering for. Together, their journey is a perfect blend of passion, perseverance, and romance.
"Inside the Penalty Box" is a must-read for anyone who loves hockey romances. S.L. Sterling has crafted a story that not only delivers on the romance but also captures the thrill of the game and the intensity of true love. I can't wait to see what happens next in the Vancouver Dominators series. If you’re looking for a romance that will make your heart race and leave you eager for more, this book is definitely for you.
Inside the Penalty Box is a delightful blend of romance and sports drama that kept me hooked from start to finish. As part of the Vancouver Dominators series, this book truly shines with its compelling characters and a plot that's both engaging and emotionally resonant.
The story centers around the fiery relationship between two main characters, whose chemistry is palpable from their first interaction. Sterling does an excellent job of developing their relationship, allowing it to evolve naturally amidst the high-stakes world of professional hockey. I found myself deeply invested in their journey, rooting for their love story despite the obstacles they faced.
One of the standout aspects of this book is its vivid depiction of the hockey world. Sterling's writing brings the excitement of the game to life, providing just enough detail to thrill sports fans like myself without alienating those less familiar with hockey. The author's ability to balance the romance and sports elements is commendable, ensuring that neither overshadows the other.
The supporting characters add depth to the narrative, each contributing to the main storyline in meaningful ways. From teammates to family members, these characters are well-developed and add richness to the protagonists' journey. Their interactions provided moments of humor and warmth, enhancing the overall reading experience.
However, I did find the pacing of the story a bit uneven at times, with some scenes lingering longer than necessary while others moved too quickly. Despite this minor issue, the book maintained a steady momentum that kept me invested in the outcome.
In summary, Inside the Penalty Box is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of both romance and sports fiction. S.L. Sterling delivers a story that's both touching and thrilling, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a passionate and dynamic love story set against the backdrop of professional hockey. This book earns a solid four stars from me for its engaging plot, well-crafted characters, and the seamless integration of romance and sports drama.
I’m going through a real hockey romance phase at the minute so ‘Inside The Penalty Box’ really caught my interest. I’ve read and really enjoyed some of S.L.’s books before and genuinely thought I’d love this one.
I liked Dylan. I really liked that he wasn’t your stereotypical ‘romance read sports player’ and wasn’t jumping anything with a pulse. I loved that once he knew who his ONS was, after kicking himself for months having not gotten her name or number, that he was ALL IN with Aurora and no one was gonna stop him from seeing if their connection could be more. His ex though…. The gods, cray-cray to the extreme!! 😳 On that note, one thing that did annoy me about our MMC was his holding back on info…. the man was not quick in the communication department and I understood Aurora’s frustration at times. TBH, she had more patience than he deserved at least once if not more during the story!!!
Aurora. I liked that she wanted to break out of her mould but also understood her feelings after she took the plunge and did something so out of character. I liked Aurora’s attitude and how she stood up for herself when it came to Dylan especially where she felt she wasn’t being given all the info she needed to make a decision about whether or not to see where things with him could go. Her relationship with her mother, that was something else. It was good that our FMC still held true to herself and that her mother’s thoughts and lifestyle choices hadn’t coloured her thoughts on relationships and love.
While I did enjoy ITPB for the most part, there’s were a couple of things that left me scratching my head come the end of the book and I was left pondering ‘why’ about someone’s actions and any further consequences that there might be…….
I’m hoping to see more of this pair in the Vancouver Dominators series going forward and I’m really looking forward to finding out more about Knox and Lorelai and exactly what happened in the past that has her reacting so badly him now!! 🤔
What an absolutely gorgeous read....A hokey romance story so sweet , so tender, with so much love,trust, communication, friendship at it's best....I loved every word, every sentence, every page of this story. S.L. Sterling wrote a page turner, in a way that absolutely pulls you in a keep you there without wanting to let it go.
The story is about Aurora, our feisty, sassy, shy and strong fmc, and Dylan , the center of Vancouver Dominators' hokey team, our cinnamon roll, golden retriever, absolutely gorgeous pieces of a man. They have a one night stand in Mexico, no names, no numbers, just the feels....After many months, and with both of them not been able to forget that night, or the other person, they meet again under strange circumstances and all the feelings come in tidal waves back up again.
Dylan is the must have boyfriend(or "I wanna be boyfriend")material.He is a one woman man,always have and always be. He is caring and he does what he must to get what he wants, and what he wants is Aurora as his forever! He is extremely hot and sexy, and the way he talks and walks and is , oh my GOD!!!!!! Their chemistry is of the charts, they set not only the roof but the whole continent on fire.
Aurora is what completes him in every way. Where he is forward she is shy, where he pulls she pushes , where she gives he takes, and she gives as much as she can. She is not afraid to stand up for herself (well as long as Dylan doesn't invader personal space, bc then she loses control and her mind). They are both fighters and they fight for their love , for their chance in a life together.
The side characters are the top! Their friends are gorgeous, supportive, bodyguards of their relationship, their iner voice of logic and calm. I love them all and I need their stories as well( I hope next book is about Knox and Lorelai). Even her mother, that was absent as a parent in all hers and her brother's lives, when mattered the most, their chance of becoming happy with each other, she came through....Must read, must have, must read read
I am a new reader of SL Sterling and I must say, I love her writing style. She combined just the right amount of laughter, fun, sassiness and romance with a bit of drama thrown in. It was a great start to the series with the storyline acquainting readers with the main players hopefully coming up in future books in the series. The characters were so well defined I felt like I knew them and felt what they were going through. Awesome start to the series.
The storyline follows the Center for the Vancouver Dominator’s hockey team. After a very public break-up, in which Dylan was made out to be the bad guy, he was told to lay low from the public eye by the PR rep for the team. So he and the guys go on a get-a-way to Mexico. It’s there he had a one-night stand he’ll never forget. But she slipped away in the night and he never got her name or number. Fast forward almost a year later and Dylan runs into the woman who haunts his dreams. To Aurora they reconnect in the most humiliating way possible but to Dylan it’s the chance to get the girl and not let her go. Can Dylan convince her to give him a chance or will she run in the night like she did in Mexico?
Great start to the series and this reader can’t wait to see what happens next with Dominator’s Hockey team.
Aurora just broke up with her boyfriend and her brother took off to boot camp after getting himself in trouble in all his life. Auroras girlfriends decide to take a girls trip to Mexico to shake off the breakup. She has always been a cautious by nature because of having a mom who never really settled down and would constantly be dating different men. While Aurora and her girls are in Mexico; she's encouraged to let loose and have a fling. While at the bar close to their last night at the hotel before flying home - She keeps eyeing this gorgeous man who kept eyeing her. He sent her and her friend drinks to get her attention. She ends up telling him she doesn't what to know his name and sleeps with him. Once back home, she throws herself into college. Her best friends' brother is working on getting the girls interviews with his hockey team. One day.. Aurora's mother calls her and tells her that she has gotten married. Her and her brother go to see their mom and meet their new stepdad. While there; they find out they have a new step brother.. what Aurora wasn't expecting was that Dylan, her new step brother, to be the man she had a one night stand with. This triggers chaos, dating, misunderstandings, a new job, and a step father who told her mother that Aurora was never allowed to step foot in their house again unless she stopped dating Dylan. Dylan also plays on the hockey team her best friend's brother plays on. This book is funny, endearing and full of love.
Great start to the series The Vancouver Dominators ice hockey team and players have a lot to deal with and Dylan has more than his fair share. A trip to get away and decompress is his introduction to Aurora, who is on a getaway with friends as a break from studying. She is the staid, good girl, but steps out of her comfort zone and they have a one night stand. Fast forward, months later she is introduced to her new step brother...yeas, it's Dylan. Their relationship has problems from the outset. He is keen and kind, she's awkward and frosty. The disgruntled and belligerent ex girlfriend is the thorn in everyone's side, creating problems for the team. I wished the issues involving her had been publically reported and the depths she sunk to in blaming Dylan and the lies she told about their breakup. I felt this diluted her claims and all her behaviours because it was swept aside. I always want the bad guy to get called out and for the truth to be told, especially after the damage caused. Dylan and Aurora make a good couple and it was the inevitable HEA after the rollercoaster ride of the drama around them
Aurora was raised by a fly by the seat of her pants mother, and it's made her quite a bit uptight LOL! She goes through a breakup so goes away on a girls trip with her besties, and finally has a one night stand which was super hot. Of course the morning regrets were crazy and I wanted to shake her. Dylan has gone through a terribly messy breakup that played out in the press since he's a hockey player, so he's kept his head down until it cooled off. He meets a hot girl while on a trip with his buddies, and has a hot one night stand with her but they didn't give each other any names so he's kicking himself quite a bit in the aftermath. Little did either of them know that they would come face to face again, and while she wants to run far, he's not letting her get away again. These two are fun together, but the supporting cast is definitely the comedy act that kept me laughing. Of course now that Dylan's happy, his past comes back to try to ruin him so will Aurora take off again? You'll have to read it to find out! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Aurora Barlowe had gone to Mexico with her friends and while there was talked into letting go after her breakup with long time boyfriend Greg. There she meets a guy and they spend the night together with no names or numbers exchanged.
Dylan Hayes is the center for the Vancouver Dominators. The last year his public image was trashed by his ex-girlfriend so he has been staying out of the public eye. When he meets Aurora in Mexico and she doesn't recognize him he's glad, but sorry he didn't get her name or number.
Nine months have passed since Mexico. Dylan, Aurora and her brother Walker have been summoned to meet the new step-family. Both were shocked to see each other and that their parents were married.
Dylan figures he has been given a second chance but Aurora isn't so sure. He will stop at nothing for that chance.
4 stars I liked the story but I thought the ending was rushed and left questions that weren't answered. I do wonder about Knox and Lorelai.
An enjoyable sports romance where a one-night fling turns into so much more months later. Inside The Penalty Box is a page-turner that you just cannot put down. Ms. Sterling gives us a storyline that is full of great banter, steamy scenes and friends who know exactly what you need. The MFC is sassy, feisty and loves putting the MMc in his place. The MMC is swoon-worthy and will sweep you off your feet. Aurora and Dylan meet and have one night together but no names or numbers are exchanged. Little does she know he is a professional hockey player for Vancouver. They cannot forget about one another and fate has them meeting almost a year later but the situation is awkward. He is determined to get her to admit she wants him and does everything he can to get her to open her heart. This book is a great start to Ms. Sterling's new series and I can't wait to see what she has in store for us with the next installment
4.5/5⭐️ In the first book of S.L. Sterling’s new series, the Vancouver Dominators, we are introduced to Aurora as she joins her friends for a vacation to Mexico before she returns to college.
While on vacation, her friends encourage her to shed her inhibitions and use the opportunity to get over her ex. One night, she decides to be spontaneous and spends the night with a sexy, charming stranger, whose name she does not even know!
To her shock, she meets him a few months later, and he is Dylan, the center for the Vancouver Dominators, and also her new stepbrother! This time, Dylan has no plans to let her get away even as Aurora is hesitant due to the complexity of their relationship.
It’s quite impossible to say ‘No’ to the persuasive Dylan and soon they start to date. Various challenges hit them constantly but Dylan and Aurora remain steadfast and hold on to their love for each other.
It was such a blast to read through the book as it was fast-paced and well written. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
After a very public breakup with his ex, Dylan and a few of his teammates from the Dominators find themselves in Mexico looking for a little rest and relaxation. When he meets Aurora, the sparks fly, and they agree to spend one steamy evening together before they return to their regular lives never expecting their paths would cross again.
Aurora is going through the end of a relationship as well so a trip to Mexico is exactly what she needs before she returns to college. She believes that both Mexico and Dylan will be nothing but a memory until months later they find out their lives are connected in a way that neither could have anticipated.
Even though neither Dylan nor Aurora were looking for a relationship when they met some things are meant to be. Despite the challenges Dylan knows that he wants a future with her, and he is both determined and swoony as he shows Aurora that what they have is worth fighting for.
Who knew one night would change EVERYTHING and turn out to be so. much. more.
S.L. Sterling has a brand new book out in a brand new series, the Vancouver Dominators, and y'all, this new hockey romance was all kinds of good and interesting. Sterling definitely hit her marks with this beauty and delivered an easy to read romance that will tug at the strings of your heart in certain moments. Inside the Penalty Box gives us Aurora and Dylan's story and this is one you do not want to miss. Packed to the brims with heart, heat, swoon, and all of the feels.. these two hooked me hard and fast and didn't let go until the very last word.
Sterling certainly has a way wit her words and characters. I'll be hanging around for this series and can't wait for the next.
Aurora goes on a trip with her friends and decides to act more like her mother, who is a “free spirit”, so she ends up spending a night with a guy, but they don't exchange names or phone numbers. Despite it being one of the best nights of her life, she comes to the conclusion that she can't be like her mother. Dylan went on a trip with his teammates and had the best night of his life, but regretted not getting in touch with the woman. To his surprise, a few months later he meets her again and decides to do everything he can to get to give him a chance so that they can get to know each other better. Along the way they have to face some obstacles, but they can count on their friends to support them. I loved the characters and the chemistry between them. I'm looking forward to reading Lorelai and Knox's story. I highly recommend reading it.
The story follows Aurora and Dylan after they spend an unforgettable night together in Mexico. However, the two of them never exchanged names or numbers, causing them to lose contact for nine months.
I loved the back and forth banter between Aurora and Dylan when they meet again. Dylan’s character trying to convince Aurora to give him a chance, and her refusal to give in. The two of them had the perfect chemistry!
I feel like I also have to mention Penelope, AKA Aurora’s mother. Despite the flaws she had in the beginning of the book, she helped Aurora navigate tough moments in her relationship with Dylan. She truly developed into the mother that Aurora and Walker deserved.
I was excited when I heard we were getting a new hockey series from S.L. Sterling and what a great start to the new series. Inside the Penalty Box is the first book in the Vancouver Dominators and this is Dylan and Aurora’s story. It was only meant to be a bit of fun in Mexico and neither expected to see each other again. Imagine the shock to find out your new step brother is your one night stand from Mexico….. Try as they may this couple find it hard to hide their feelings and it seems fate is determined to push them together. This is a well written, great start to the new series, the story is believable and the characters easy to bond with. The chemistry is sizzling and the banter is witty and I’m excited for what’s to come from the Vancouver Dominators.
A one night stand on holiday that leaves both Dylan and Aurora longing for months! Dylan is a NHL star for the Vancouver Dominators, on holiday in Mexico with the boys to get some much needed R&R. Aurora is also in Mexico with her girlfriends for one final hurrah before they all go their separate ways for college and work. She’s fresh from a breakup and needed to love a little, letting go with a one night stand, with a stranger and no names exchanged. 9 months later, plot twist and the two come face to face again. Great banter from Dylan and his boys! Very much looking forward to this series. Loved that Dylan set out to get exactly what he wanted where Aurora was concerned and not once backing down despite his obstacles. Great read for book 1 of the series!
Inside the Penalty Box by S.L. Sterling was a fantastic and exciting book. I enjoyed this book from the first chapter and was sad when I got to the end. I loved this contemporary romance, and it checked all the boxes I like in the sports romance trope. There is an ONS, an obsessed MMC, and an FMC who is discovering herself and all the drama that comes with a sports romance. I enjoyed the main characters' backstories, undeniable chemistry, and the drama that followed them. I thought the storyline was original and page-turning. I loved the roller coaster ride of a book this author took me on. This book is the first in the Vancouver Dominators series, and I am obsessed with all the characters.- Brooke
It was a little choppy but it’s not the final draft so that makes sense. She brought in a whole bunch of characters from the team to build the series on which is fun but she skipped a lot of time with Dylan and Aurora to make things work and in the process screwed some of the timings up.
I loved Lorelei and Aurora’s friendship. I kind of wish she Aurora had made up with the other girls that she went to Mexico with especially after she got together with Dylan.
Overall I liked the story and the flow but it was just a little off. I think for the next one in the series I will wait until it releases to see if it flows better.
Inside the Penalty Box is the first book in what promises to be an exciting new sports romance series (Vancouver Dominators) by S. L. Sterling. This one is a stepbrother romance, which is one of my favorite tropes, and it was so good! Dylan and Aurora had crazy chemistry from the moment they met. At the time, they had a one night stand while on vacation in Mexico, figuring they'd never see each other again, but nine months later, Aurora's mom married Dylan's father. The attraction was undeniable, the sparks were flying with every glance, and the whole story was really good. Definitely worth the read!
Dylan and Aurora’s first meet up while on vacation…one night stand…they don’t expect to see each other again…but fate has a way of changing that.
These two have an undeniable attraction, are full of passion and will not let anything stop them from being together. There are forces playing against them…can they stay strong enough to stick together?
They both have some baggage..relationship with their parents, past break-ups and other life events that have them both a bit reserved and afraid to commit. I love how SL writes her characters and situations…they are real life, full of emotion and will bring out all your feelings.
This is book number 1 in The Vancouver Dominators series that falls under the hockey romance trope and for me this was a quick read with some spice inside.
The story was easy to follow and had had me literally hooked already from start so I barely didn't wanted to put it down until I was finished with it. It ended with a cliffhanger which has me longing for the second book in this series because I really need to know what is gonna happen.
One thing I loved with this book was the two MC's first interaction together where they did not know who they were since there wasn't a name exchanged and was just a night of fun and pleasure.
In this book you can expect to find: 🏒 Hockey romance 🏒 One Night Stand 🏒 He Falls First 🏒 Forbidden Love 🏒 Spicy scenes
If you are a lover of hockey romances then you just have to read this one because it was really great 😍 Thanks for having me on this tour 😍🙏
Inside the Penalty Box is the first book in The Vancouver Dominators series. It’s a must-read if you like sports romances with humor and all the feel-goods. Aurora and Dylan thought they’d have a night together while in Mexico and never see each other again. Months later neither can stop thinking of each other, they both regret not exchanging names. Shockingly fate plays a wicked joke on them when they meet again. This was an entertaining book and I always love a book where the guy falls first. I look forward to future books in the series. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
So many emotions in this story and so many back stories, it was heart wrenching, sweet, and full of drama. Aurora is a play by the book girl with a free spirited mother and a no nonsense brother. Dylan is an all in hockey player. Imagine their surprise after a no name one night stand when they find out their parents married each other. Their chemistry was off the charts and they can’t let it go. Turns out, they also like each other. I really enjoyed their story, but I also feel like there are some loose ends. Maybe, we get more of it in the next book. Truly felt like a happy for now, not a happy ever after.
This was a nice addition to this ongoing series. We loved Dylan he was fun and flirty and knew what he wanted. The story was full of family drama, crazy exes, and letting go. This was a sweet romance where two people found a connection chemistry and a twist that made the story way more interesting. We loved Dylan and how he stuck to his guns and would not let anyone stand in the way of his happiness. Also, Aurora's mom ended up surprising us in a big way.
The cast of characters is great, with witty banter between characters and some who can't get along. It was a fast-paced read that was very enjoyable.