Another Face-off

Wildcatters Hockey #5

by Alexa Padgett

In the thrilling world of professional hockey, where passion burns both on and off the ice, NHL winger Paxton Naese is a force to be reckoned with. As talented as he is ruggedly handsome, he's used to turning heads and breaking hearts. But there's one heart he shattered—his own—when he broke off his long-term relationship with his ex-girlfriend Hana.

Three years ago, Naese and Hana were inseparable, lost in a love that sizzled hotter than the game they both adored. But when the pressures of his career and his insecurities drove them apart, Hana was left with a trail of dreams he shattered...and a secret too painful to bear.

In this steamy new adult hockey romance, Naese and Hana must confront their past, their desires, and the undeniable connection that's never faded. Will they overcome the obstacles in their path and find a way back to each other's arms? Or will the scars of yesterday prove too deep to heal, leaving them forever longing for the warmth of a love they once knew? One thing's for in this time of love and redemption, winning might just mean losing your heart.

Genres: Hockey Romance, Romance, Sports

262 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 13, 2024

About the author

Alexa Padgett writes contemporary romance filled with heart, heat, and overflowing with emotion. Her stories include hockey players, rockstars, and the women who find strength, love, and safety along the way. She believes romance should offer emotional refuge, a place to relax and feel understood. Alexa lives near Santa Fe, NM, where she spends her days writing, reading, hiking, and falling a little in love with each character she creates.

Reviews

[Nancy (The Avid Reader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hana and Pax have known they were meant to be together since they were children. But then one day Pax broke it off with Hana to pursue his career as a hockey player. Pax broke Hana’s heart but he also broke his own. If Pax broke his own heart too then why did he leave Hana?

Pax’s father more or less made him leave Hana for his career. Pax’s broken heart has finally led him to look for Hana with the help of his friend Cruz. Pax finally learns the truth behind his father’s pushing him to break it off with Hana.

Hana has tried her best to move on after Pax left her for his career. She now has a boyfriend. A very controlling and jealous boyfriend. I think Hana knew what kind of person her boyfriend was but she had never gotten over Pax and was trying to move forward and not be so miserable.

But now that Pax has come back into her life things have changed. Hana has a secret of her own that she has been carrying. Hana’s heart still wants Pax but she is unsure if she can ever trust him again.

Another Face-off is filled with lies and betrayal. It had some mighty big twists that I would have never guessed that left me shocked to the core. I felt so bad for Pax when the truth finally came out all those years ago.

Another Face-off was a great read that kept me hanging on word after word. It kept me glued to my seat wondering what Hana was going to do. It had me racing to the end not able to turn the pages as fast as I would have liked.

I can’t wait to read the next book Another Powerplay in the Wildcatters Hockey Series. I can’t wait to read Cruz’s story and he finds love and with who.

I highly recommend Another Face-off to all fans of Romance and Romantic Comedy! Grab a copy of Another Face-off today!

[Nadene (Totally Addicted to Reading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

In Another Face Off, readers are treated to a story filled with passion, drama and redemption. The story follows Paxton Naese and his ex-girlfriend, Hana, as they traverse the complex issues of their past on the path to rekindling their love.

Another Face-off is book 5 in the Wildcatters Hockey series, but it works well as a standalone. This story provides the perfect example of how lies, secrets and selfishness destroys relationships. Hana and Pax were childhood sweethearts. They dreamt of one day getting married and starting a family. However, on his father's urging to pursue a career in hockey, he ended his relationship with Hana. In  doing so he broke both his and Hana's heart. Since that fateful, day he has never been the same

Pax and Hana has been through so much since their separation, but of the two, Hana's experience was more devastating. The losses she endured had the capacity to break her, but through it all she held firm. Pax recognizes that although he realized his dreams with respect to his career, his life was incomplete without Hana. Encouragement by a friend and fellow teammate pushed him to seek reconciliation with Hana. His attempts at reconciliation, however, hit many roadblocks. Hana sure did not make it easy for him despite the fact she never stopped loving him.

Another Face Off hit me betrayal, pain, secrets and lies. Because of the secrets and lies the story had its share of some massive unexpected twists. The revelations had me wanting to throw things, especially at Pax's father and Hana's mother. At the moment you believe they've overcome an obstacle, another bombshell drops, threatening their hopes of a happily ever after. They both suffered a lot on this journey, but the one thing which remained constant through it all was their love for each other.

Another Face Off with it second chance, slow burn romance was an amazing read. It captured my interest from the initial stages. After my experience with this instalment, I am keen to read the other books in the series.

This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading

[BookAddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

When it comes to hockey series, this crafty storyteller wins the Cup! The Houston Wildcatters and their better half CATS feel like old friends at this point, but I’ve been eagerly anticipating this story, and it's better than I ever dreamed.

Paxton Naese is the cinnamon roll of the team but he has something deep from his past that he's never gotten over. With a little nudge from his teammate, Cruz, Pax makes a move to right a wrong and try to win back the girl of his dreams and the other half of his heart.

Hana Sato's life went off the rails when Pax broke up with her and left to pursue his NHL career. Despite her brilliant mind and her job as an astrophysicist, she's broken and scarred and barely going through the motions. Now Pax is back, and everything that went wrong in her life since he left is tied to him.

Buckle up and hold on tight, because this one is a doozy, y'all. Hurt, betrayal, and secrets all have to be exposed and worked through for these two to rebuild trust and find their forever. This gifted wordsmith takes us deep into these characters as we see them let go of the past, learn about themselves, and grow together.

This is probably my favorite sports series ever, and Pax and Hana are the icing on the cake. I love how patient and determined Pax is, without ever pushing, as Hana overcomes a wealth of pain and fear. I adore the camaraderie and support between the teammates, and their significant others are unbelievably amazing as they draw Hana into their circle and lift her up. We should all be so lucky to have such a supportive, empathetic group of friends.

While this romance is, at times, heartbreaking and deeply emotive, it's balanced with charming wit and lighthearted humor. This is one of those stories that makes you feel everything, and the happy sigh it leaves you with, alone, makes it worth the read.

[Margaret Watkins]

In this heart-breaking romance, a vicious web of lies and deceit almost destroyed two people who deserved it the least. Paxton's friend takes it upon himself to track down his childhood best friend and soulmate to attempt a reconciliation at best, or to find closure to a broken past. Paxton gets more than one surprise when he starts uncovering the layers of lies, but his attempts at reaching out to Hana take all his patience and endurance to win her trust once again. Hana never received the love and support of her family, but when it is offered to her unconditionally by Paxton and his fellow Wildcatters and their CATS, the walls around her heart start to crumble and the Hana Paxton knew as a girl begins to emerge once again. There is a lot of angst and pain to deal with, but the couple finally find peace as the truth emerges. This romance is part of a series but can nevertheless be read as a standalone. I received a copy of this novel as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Floraljoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous:
What an awesome addition to what has already been an outstanding series! I loved every minute of it and was sad to have it end. Everything just flowed well and whilst there was certainly drama and emotional moments, it was still a touching and uplifting story. It would be preferable to read this as part of the series as there are interconnecting characters and references which may not otherwise be understood.
I really enjoyed the slow burn, second chance romance and thought Paxton and Hana made a wonderful couple. As always, I especially loved seeing the camaraderie and support that this group of friends provided one another.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Biggs_bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the wildcatters series. These players have so much heart and Paxton is no different. After pining for the one he walked away from he finally goes after her. When her no good boss starts acting like a p.o.s. It gives Paxton the opportunity to persuade Hana to come to Houston to follow her dreams and give him a second chance. There were a lot of jaw dropping moments in this story that will have you clutching your imaginary pearls and the tension is next level. With all that you can’t help but root for these character. To be completely invested in the outcome of their story. And I have to say the ending was just perfection! Can’t wait for the next installment

[Julie Booklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great addition to the Wildcatters Hockey series. A hard to put down story, filled with lies, betrayal, heartbreak and second chances.

Pax had to make a choice and, as a result, had to leave Hana behind. Both are brokenhearted and try to move on. When their paths cross again, will they mend their hearts? Can the trust be restored?
I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

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

[Bec · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness, another brilliant story from Alexa Padgett.
I couldn’t stop reading.
This has all the emotions, great found family.
I would love to find a bunch of friends like the CATS. (IYKYK!)
I laughed, cried & screamed out loud!
Love this whole series. Cannot wait for Cruz’s story!
Recommend to all

[Gladys · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pax and Hana are going to totally wreck your heart. These two, oh my these two had me all up in my feels and afloat in an endless ocean of emotions. What a deeply moving, sharply poignant journey this couple took me on. I highly recommend a fresh box of tissues and your favorite comfort food to see you through this book.

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

Universal



Paxton and Hana were once in love and looking forward to a happy future together. Until one day Pax broke it off and Hana hasn't seen him since. She's not been really living since then, barely existing and has been going through the motions after a horrible accident. Then Pax strolls back into her life and seems to want closure. The last thing she wants is to open her life and heart back up to more pain caused by him, but she's having a hard time forgetting what they once had.



Naese may have been the one to break things off with Hana, but he's never gotten over her or the fact that he broke both their hearts. Now, thanks to his friend and teammate, Cruz, he's got a second chance at something with her. But only if he can scale her walls, walls that are only there thanks to him leaving her to a horrible life without him, living with a family who couldn't give less of a shit if they tried.

Hana and Naese's story is heart wrenching, filled with pain and betrayal, one hit after another. I was feeling all their pain with them as each bombshell was dropped. But through it all, I could also feel the love that had never left through their lives apart. Pax is a sweet, cinnamon roll hero who was just young and impressionable when he was manipulated into leaving poor Hana. And Hana, poor Hana, I felt the most for her and with her. She was so strong, even though she didn't realize it, didn't feel like it. I so love that she and Naese got their second chance - if ever a couple deserved something good like a second chance at love, it's this one.



ARC provided by Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.

Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.

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[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book five in The Wildcatters Hockey series and it is Paxton and Hanna’s story and omg it is definitely a must read but get the tissues ready because you are going to need them while reading this book. Paxton and Hanna have history because at one time they were so in love and looking forward to a future together only for it to all fall apart because of the pressure of his career leaving them both devastated and unable to forget each other and also living in regret. Paxton plays professional hockey in the NHL for the Wildcatters as there winger and some would say that he had everything in his life but things are not what they seem because he lost the most important person in his life as he listened to other and made a big stupid mistake but somehow he hopes that he eventually gets a chance to put it right. Hana was looking forward to a future with Paxton before it all fell apart but she never got over loving him and she had gone through so much in her life leaving her a totally different person than she used to be. Wow this book certainly takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions that will leave you in tears and my heart broke with everything that Hana and Paxton had gone through at the hands of the people that should have protected, cared and put how they feel first and what they wanted out of life instead of trying to totally control them which caused heartbreak, so much pain and suffering leaving them broken after so much betrayal and Hana and Paxton were so perfect for each other and together and there love was so strong that even though they had been apart for so long it stood the test of time and even though they had many ups and downs and their relationship was definitely not plain sailing I am so glad that they eventually found their happy ending and the future that they both deserved after everything that they had both both been. I absolutely loved this book because it was such a page turner and had you totally addicted while on the edge of your seat along with great characters involved in the storyline. I definitely recommend you read this book, series and others by Alexa Padgett who is an amazing author and writer and she certainly knows how to keep her readers attention while reading her books and you will not be disappointed.

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another Face-Off is a delightful addition to the Wildcatters Hockey series, delivering an entertaining and well-crafted romance story. The book follows the journey of Tessa and Liam, two individuals whose lives intersect in unexpected ways, both on and off the ice.

Padgett weaves a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from the very first page. The plot is well-paced, with a perfect balance of romantic tension, hockey action, and character development. The author skillfully navigates the challenges faced by the protagonists, creating a story that is both heartwarming and relatable.

One of the strengths of Another Face-Off lies in its well-developed characters. Tessa and Liam are complex individuals with their own unique personalities, flaws, and aspirations. Their interactions are genuine and authentic, allowing readers to connect with them on an emotional level. The supporting cast also adds depth to the story, enriching the overall reading experience.

Padgett's writing style is immersive and engaging, drawing readers into the world of the Wildcatters Hockey team. The author's attention to detail and vivid descriptions bring the setting to life, making it easy for readers to visualize the scenes unfolding before them. The dialogue is natural and believable, further enhancing the authenticity of the characters.

While Another Face-Off is an overall enjoyable read, there are a few minor drawbacks. Some readers may find the pacing a bit uneven at times, with certain sections feeling slightly rushed or underdeveloped. Additionally, a few reviewers mentioned that they would have liked to see more character growth and development throughout the story.

Despite these minor issues, Another Face-Off is a delightful and entertaining read that is sure to captivate fans of hockey romance novels. With its engaging storyline, well-developed characters, and immersive writing style, this book is a solid addition to the Wildcatters Hockey series. If you're looking for a heartwarming and romantic read with a touch of hockey action, Another Face-Off is definitely worth checking out.

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Paxton and Hana’s story is emotional and riveting. There are many moments that tug hard on the heartstrings,but there are also many moments that are funny and entertaining. Those usually involve Paxton’s teammates and their teasing and taunting each other, or their wives taking Hana into their fold and the antics they get up to together. I loved the camaraderie among both groups and the way they all step up to support each other when needed. They aren’t just friends, they are family.

Hana and Paxton both need that after their own families conspired to break them up, and sent their lives spiralling. Paxton is not without some blame for breakup, but he was also young, still seeking his father’s approval and thought his dad had his best interests at heart. He realized almost immediately afterward what he had lost or pushed away, and desperately wanted Hana back. Thankfully, Hana and Paxton are given a chance to reconnect, to hash things out and to work toward forgiveness if not a chance at a happily ever after. This is due, in large part to his teammates and others connected to the team who work behind the scenes to give them another chance at love.

I loved Hana’s intelligence, her confidence in her work, and her resilience. Yes, she has trust issues, but Paxton gives her the time and space she needs while still making sure that she knows he is all in, waiting for her, hoping she will give him, them another chance. Their chemistry, their connection is palpable and they both want a second chance. Their path to happily ever after has been rather bumpy, painful and messed up, but they are willing to work together to finally get there.

I would happily recommend this riveting book and the previous books in this series.

[Bernie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Paxton is suffering guilt and loss of Hana, the girl he walked away from, a few years ago, after encouragement from his father to chhose her or his career. Despite his image he has not moved and he lives with regret every day.
Hana is also suffering the loss, but also more personal loss and the effects on her life and career, living g with disappointment and unhappiness. Her surprise is overwhelming when Paxton sees her out. A lot has happened and much to deal with, with all the physical and emotional energies it has brought.
Paxton proves relentless in his pursuit and patience of reconciliation. Jana's hesitancy is understood and heartfelt, but it is wearisome and depressing. Nit seems to be a punishment rather than reflection and to regroup. She alternates between wallowing in not being in a good headspace to uncertainty as to what she actually wants or needs. Her behaviour and attitude is overbearing and destructive to her own detriment as well as her relationship with Paxton. I did not like her at times and thought she was self absorbed, despite Paxton's reassurances and played with his feelings.
The test of the strength of Hana and Paxton's relationship is hard fought as emotions, hurt, lies deceit, interference, betrayal and distrust all combine to reveal the truth when everything eventually comes to the fore. The family all prove to be individuals of poor and selfish character.

[Marni Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well I really was just taken on the ride of my life and completely blown away in all the best ways . As per usual Alexa nailed it once again and delivered one of the best books I’ve read this year . I really am quite obsessed with her Wildcatters Hockey Series. Each installment is so wonderfully written and each couple so very unique not to mention likable and relatable, it’s almost impossible not to fall in love . But I do have to say Hana and Pax really were everything together . I can’t really find the perfect words to express how much I absolutely adored them ( all I can say is the connection I felt was so strong , like a magnet or a moth to a flame . Slow burn , second chance , hockey romance , love at first sight and then torn apart by pressures and insecurities, drama , angst , humor , witty banter, love , passion pain drama , secrets, obstacles, family and friendships , unexpected surprises and much much more . Their journey is anything but easy in fact It’s 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 belong crushed with tears streaming down your cheeks. You’ll smile , you’ll laugh out loud and I can guarantee you’ll be glued to the edge of your seat anticipating what will happen from one second to the next and rooting so freaking hard for their happily ever after

[Claudia, Cmarie927 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow!

This is an easy to read, addictive story that is best read in the series order (IMO) for the connections and backstories. There's a lot to unpack in this one, and some tough things to emotionally deal with, that I wasn't expecting. Paxton is an easy to love character, even if his actions were almost unforgivable. He found his soulmate in Hana when they were children, and their mutual intellect should have provided their perfect HEA from the beginning, but as we know - it's not always that simple. The manipulation of his life was sad, but understandable (a little) based on the secrets being kept from him. Lots of emotions swirling around that.

Hana paid the highest price for decisions made (that were beyond her control), and her desire to overcome was one of my favorite parts of this read. Of course, once Pax got himself right and began to right his wrongs, their connection and steamy energy reignites. I absolutely LOVED the CATS, and how they rallied around Hana. Knowing who those women are (backstories of those couples) is important too. The journey for Pax and Hana to their forever was up and down, but I was thrilled with their HEA.

I look forward to the next book in this series, and thank the author for my complimentary copy of this read. I happily leave my review and suggest delving into the catalog of this talented author. You'll be glad you did.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wildcatters Hockey Book 5

Hana Sato and Paxton Naese have known each other since they were 7 & 8 yrs old. They were each other's everything and in love until Paxton broke it off. That was three years ago. He broke both their hearts but he was told that was what he needed to do to go on and pursue his hockey career.

Paxton is the starting winger for the Wildcatters. His heart has been broken since the day he broke things off and his teammate Cruz has encouraged him to find Hana and try to get their life back.

Hana is brilliant, an astrophysicist working for a jerk, not happy and is barely getting by. She has school loans and medical bills from her accident that has left her scared and broken.
When Pax seeks her out she is angry and not sure she wants anything to do with him again for fear she will be hurt again. She quits her job and moves to Houston hoping to get a job working for NASA and decides to live at Pax's house to save money.
What she wasn't planning on was all the love, friendship and help she received from the CATS and his fellow teammates.

This is their second chance. "You're my future," and "You're my life"

4.25 stars
An emotional story with secrets and lies that were told to keep them apart. But also a second chance.

[World Of Books 65 · Rating 4 out of 5]

In "Another Face-Off," the fifth book of the Wildcatters Hockey Series, Alexa Padgett delivers a gripping tale that will keep readers hooked from start to finish. This story dives into the intricacies of second chances, friendship, and the roller coaster ride of emotions that accompany them.

Hana and Pax's journey is a captivating exploration of love lost and found again. Ms Padgett skillfully weaves a story filled with heartfelt moments that tug at the heartstrings, making readers empathise deeply with the characters. From the highs of rekindled romance to the lows of emotional turmoil, every twist and turn in their relationship is portrayed with authenticity and depth.

One of the highlights of "Another Face-Off" is the dynamic banter between friends, which adds a layer of warmth and humour to the story. The camaraderie among the characters brings a sense of community and belonging that enhances the overall reading experience.

Ms Padgett's writing shines as she expertly navigates the complexities of love, forgiveness, and redemption. Her prose is both engaging and evocative, drawing readers into the world of the Wildcatters Hockey Series and keeping them invested until the very end.

Overall, "Another Face-Off" is a captivating addition to the Wildcatters Hockey Series, offering readers a heartwarming story of love and second chances. If you're looking for a story that will sweep you off your feet and leave you with a smile on your face, then Hana and Pax's journey is one you won't want to miss.

[Alyse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Face Off is Book #5 in the Wildcatter’s Series—and as in the previous books, the story about this team and their significant others brings us a better understanding of what drives them to their success. Yes, all of our past favorite characters are here to visit, to help bring their teammate (Naese) and his past girlfriend (Hana) together.

Naese had never recovered from the loss of his high school love, Hana Soto. Driven by his father to break up with her so he could focus on hockey, he delivers this surprising news to Hana. Their relationship was already on rocky ground by the hostile atmosphere of the Soto family, however when the break up occurs, Hana is very much alone. Finally, as her mother relents, an accident occurs that affects all of their lives, to the horror of Naese once he discovers the truth.

This wasn’t a simple story. There were a lot of vectors from the central storyline; Hana’s job, Naese’s intellectual interests, the team and their spouses, family intrigue. At times it took concentration to follow it all but it all comes together in the end.

This is a story of forgiveness. The story of pain and change. The story of trusting again.

This is a story to read!

[CookesBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed my first read by Alexa Padgett. I love when I can read any book in a series (in this case #5) and not feel like I'm missing anything not having read the others. I think that speaks volumes to great writing.

Having been in love from a young age, all the way through the beginning of college, Hana suffered unimaginable pain and anguish after Paxton left her. When they reconnect and their family’s lies start to unravel, the reader is left wondering if they can be together as a couple after all. Lies and familial betrayal kept this couple apart and caused each of them so much pain. Hana doesn't know if she can trust Pax again but realizes she only feels whole with him. Pax is determined to prove to her that he can be trusted and will protect her, and her heart, for the rest of his life.

Once all cards are on the table Pax and Hana form a united front and slowly but surely start to rebuild their relationship into something so beautiful. The way their hockey family supported them as individuals, and as a couple, was so sweet and endearing.

I look forward to reading more from this author and this series.

[Diane Lynch Lynch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alexa Padgett lights the lamp with ANOTHER FACEOFF (Wildcatters Hockey #5). NHL wingman Paxton Naese regrets being pressured by his father to break up with his girlfriend Hana Sato. Now three years later, they are reunited, and Paxton wants a second chance. They discover secrets and miscommunications that drove them apart.

Alexa Padgett does a great job with this story. It is skillfully written and thought-provoking. Paxton and Hana are likable characters that deserve another chance. I love that they have known each other since they were in second grade. Hana suffered a horrible injury that causes her to be self-conscious. They have a lot of history. They are both intelligent. I love the NASA aspect of the story. Their families’ involvement in their lives complicates issues for the couple. It is interesting how their lives are interconnected.

ANOTHER FACEOFF is an excellent addition to the Wildcatters Hockey series. I am looking forward to Cruz’s story next. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This second chance, hockey romance story has many layers but delivers romance goods. Paxton and Hana were childhood sweethearts until he broke up with her even though he didn’t want to. He was pressured by his father to do so.

When his teammates notice he needs to sort his issues out regarding his lost love, they find Hana and the web of lies unfolds.

This is book 5 in the Wildcatters hockey series and whilst it is a standalone, you will benefit from reading the previous books. Lots of characters and connections are weaved throughout this book so it will enrich the story more if you understand the series more. That said, it does hold up as a standalone. The manipulations, secrets and lies told to Hana and Paxton were meant to keep them apart but true love prevails.

Thank you @alexapadgett and @wildfiremarketingsolutions for the e-ARC of this book. Another great story from Alexa, and I look forward to more from the amazing Wildcatters family.

[Lindsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first read by this author and I enjoyed it.
I like the characters.
Hana has been through the wringer. She is very intelligent and did not let the struggles in her life bring her down. Unfortunately she had to go through these struggles on her own, but she came out on top and became stronger.
Paxton has a good life, but is miserable. He let his parents influence a decision and he is paying for it.
I like that Hana doesn’t give in to Paxton right away. She takes her time and does what is best for her.
Paxton tries to show Hana that he is there and he knows he made a mistake. Some of the things he does was a bit weird to me.
I think the issue with Paxtons parents in the story is predictable. I also think the characters reactions to the situation was strange.
Other than some weird reactions to things, I enjoyed the story. I also liked the other characters and want to go back and check out their books.

[Jackie Wright · Rating 4 out of 5]

I haven’t read every book in this series but every book I have picked up o have enjoyed. Alexa Padgett is great at giving you all the feels from passion to drama and a few laughs along the way. If you love hockey romances you need to check out Another Face Off and the rest of the Wildcatters Hockey Series. This is NHL winger Paxton (Pax) Naese and Hana Sato’s second chance at love.
Pax walked away from Hana when his career in hockey took over and in the process he managed to break both their hearts. Now he wants to make things right problem is Hana wants nothing to do with him so can he convince her to give him another chance……
This is a great addition to the series and it’s a well written, entertaining read. The characters are easy to love the their story is captivating but it’s the team camaraderie that’s adds another dimension to this story.
This is a series of stand-alone romances featuring the Wildcatters Hockey Team and I’m excited to read the rest of the series.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely a story with some extra surprises. Paxton’s story has been gradually building as the other Wildcatter’s found love and happily ever afters. His heartbreak over losing Hana, his soulmate and best friend has been both touching and said. I loved how Cruz found Hana and arranged for Paxton to step up and face her after breaking up with her prior to being drafted.

Their story is definitely unusual, but definitely one that had me intrigued and engaged. Hana went through so much after Paxton broke up with her. Her fight to overcome her traumas and persevere was great storytelling.

I loved how the CATS embraces Hana and absorbed her into their band of ladies. Continues appearances by favorite characters from prior books adds an extra level of enjoyment.

I’m eager for Cruz’s book as he is such a man of mystery.

I received a free ARC from the author; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 5 of the Wildcatters series by Alexa Padgett.

This book is full of twists and turns, secrets and lies, tragedy and plot twists that I definitely did not see coming. It’s ultimately a second-chance, first love romance with an HEA after a lot of angst. It for sure keeps you guessing the entire time you’re reading it.

The MMC, Paxton. left is long term girlfriend for a hockey career and has been miserable for 3 years. In those 3 years they’ve had zero contact. His friends urge him to reach out to the FMC, Hana, because they’re tired of watching him suffer. Paxton is shocked by everything he finds out when he finally does contact Hana and she makes it obvious she wants nothing to do with him.

This book has a LOT going on in it. On the verge of too much, plot twists galore. I think some of the story lines could have been left out and the book would have been even better, but overall it was a good read.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though Pax enjoys playing hockey professional and has forged deeps friendships with his teammates the one person he is missing is Hana. He has always regretted ending their relationship and she has never been far from his thoughts, so he decides to find her and convince her to give him a second chance.

Hana’s life has not been easy since Pax ended their relationship as both personally and professionally, she is facing challenges. Due to what she has been through she is no longer the woman that Pax knew so it is only to be expected that she is cautious about letting him into her heart and her life.

Pax is patient and understanding as with the help of his teammates he tries to overcome her reservations. You will feel for both Pax and Hana as all is revealed and they must deal with the aftermath.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fifth book in this incredible series, and this is Paxton and Hana’s story.
These two were inseparable, until Pax shattered both their hearts by ending their long-term relationship, due to career pressure and insecurities. Hana has tried to move on with her life, but so much has changed. When Pax finds out the truth about why his father was pushing him to break up with Hana, will she ever trust him again, or give him another chance?
This is a well written story which is an emotional roller coaster, with meddling family, friendships, insecurities, drama, lies, betrayal, secrets, challenges, forgiveness, second chances, redemption, revelation, romance, and love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, twisted, and spicy, touching addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Silke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Face-Off is another fabulous book in the awesome Wildcatters series. Expect to be deeply moved by Hana and Paxton's story which is heartbreaking first and heartwarming last, awed and inspired by the deep friendship between the teammates and their partners and reminded that we lve in a small world and what goes around comes around! It is a deeply emotional story, which I won't classify as an easy read because of the traumatic events in Hana's past. But it is a very rewarding and uplifting one with some twists I didn't see coming and a great HEA. Like the rest of the series, this book will go on my keeper shelf and I can't recommend it highly enough!
I was fortunate to have received an advanced copy from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.

[Stephanie Ditmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hana and Paxton’s story revolves around young love, promises, lies, family secrets and misery. Paxton’s actions turned Hana’s world upside down in many ways and she can’t find love, trust is hard to come by and since the accident her life isn’t the same, she’s not the same. She can’t find what she’s seeking because they are Paxton. When Paxton finally gets the courage with some help from the guys he seeks her out to try to win her back knowing how stupid he was to let her go, but is it too late to get the love of your life back? Will Hana take a chance with her heart again and put her trust and love in his hands to have the life they should’ve had all along? I guess you’ll need to read to find out what happens. Amazing read highly recommend.