The Stud

Dalvegan Dragons #3

by Xavier Neal

From USA TODAY BESTSELLING author Xavier Neal comes a laugh-out-loud, off-limits, hockey romance!

He wants her...even more than she hates him.

Loose lips sink ships...

Which isn't a problem unless it causes her twin sister - who you might be in love with - to hate you.

And, of course, if it could get you traded from your dream team due to becoming a PR problem you swore you wouldn't be.

I guess you could say this season won't be easy.

Especially for me, the stud.

TROPE CHECK:
Golden Retriever Hero
Black Cat Heroine
One Bed Problem
Mistaken Identity
Secret Romance

Genres: Sports Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Workplace Romance, Romance, Hockey, Contemporary, Forbidden Romance

426 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 14, 2025

About the author

I'm USA TODAY Bestselling Romance Author who has published over ninety works to date.

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Reviews

[Intel Chicky Reads Romance (Kara Merideth) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love love love!

Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: off limits, forced proximity
Angst: 😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥

Absolutely loving this series and The Stud did not disappoint! One thing you can always count on with Xavier Neal's books are strong heroines, who get sheet done, still have a (slightly hidden) vulnerable side. She's snarky as hell and kept the chuckles coming. I loved how hard our MMC worked to show he was worth taking a risk for after his previous mess up. The story paced well and kept me glued the entire time. Can't wait to read the next one!

[Laura (lady_h_reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
There is no man on this planet I openly hate more than Tanner Frosky. And no man I hate myself for not really hating as much as I probably should.

A fun read! Very heavy on the hockey-lingo. That took me some time to get used to, but once I became more comfortable with all the slang (and not needing to reference the handy guide in the front of the book) it settled into an easy rhythm and the pages started flying by.

This is a one-sided enemies to lovers romance where the FMC hates the MMC but he wants her to want him SO badly! It takes quite some groveling to make up for accidentally sleeping with the evil twin of your actual crush. I’d be pretty pissed off myself, and likely wouldn’t have ever forgiven Tanner if I’d been in Arden’s position. But they do end up “not not” in love.

This medium burn and spicy MF hockey romance can be read as a standalone.

If you’re looking for a hockey romance that is very heavy on portraying the sport, you will love this one.

Thanks to Xavier Neal and DS Book Promotions for the review copy.

[Shannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Stand-alone: Yes***
Author: Xavier Neal
Rating: 3.5/5 ⭐️
Spiciness Rating: 3.5/5 🌶
POV: First Person Dual Perspective
Main Couple: Tanner and Arden
Trope(s): Rom-Com, Hockey Romance, Opposites Attract, Off-Limits, Workplace, Enemies/Enemie(ish) To Lovers

If you need a quirky rom-com with low angst, loads of banter, dirty talking MMC, a feisty FMC, teammates who have your back, a girl squad with all the support, and a swoony HEA this book is for you.

Tanner Frosky is low key in love with Arden Hoss. She hates him. Guess sleeping with her twin, thinking it was her, will leave a girl with a bad taste in her mouth about you. But, not only is she in public relations for the Dalvegan Dragons they now will be working extra close because of the mini docu series he is the star of.

On paper Tanner checks all of her boxes, even if Arden won’t admit it, but sleeping with her sister. Yep not getting over that.

And, now she has to follow him around for the docu series. Putting them in closer proximity for longer amounts of time than she wants to deal with.

He just keeps showing up. Bringing food. Walking her dog. Watching movies with her.

But, Arden does not date hockey players. Been there. Done that.

Then Tanner reveals a truth bomb about his night with her sister and it’s a game changer.

Being together could get him traded or her fired.

So, why not date in secret?

But, maybe they are not as careful as they would like to believe…

[Natalyastyles · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much Author Xavier Neal, for the giving me the opportunity to read an ARC of your new upcoming Hockey Romance Novel🏒❄️💚✨
“The Stud”
The 3rd Installment In The-
(Dalvegan Dragons Book Series)
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Read!! I travel on a journey with this book, experiencing a kaleidoscope of emotions as I delved further into the tale, eager to turn the pages and learn the outcome that awaited for two main characters🤩
✨💚Tanner Frosky & Arden Hoss💚✨
Their connection grew stronger and more passionate with each passing chapter as we journey through their lives with a Hockey Romance featuring a Opposites-Attract Black Cat protagonist 🖤Along with a lover boy Golden Retriever mmc💋✨with an Off-Limits Twist! Enemies-ish-to-Lovers Evolution🤩

“I love you and will keep loving you and keep calling you mine.” -Tanner Frosky.💋✨

[Andrea Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stars: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟


Gah, I absolutely loved Arden and Tanner story! This was a fun read that had me giggling from their witty banter, and the whole enemies to lovers. Arden is a smart and sassy woman who knows what she wants, and Tanner is a playboy that has loved her from afar.
But, he royally messes up, and has to grovel to try to get on her good side.
I absolutely loved every bit of this story! It had laugh out loud moments, swoon worthy scenes, even some cringy moments with a dumb blond!
I can’t wait for the next book to come out!

[Daronda Schafer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tanner & Arden(The Stud and His Slayer)
I absolutely loved Tanner and Arden—or should I say 'Hamster Boy' and 'Ducky'? Their playful banter had me laughing throughout the book. The way they challenged each other while growing as characters made their story even more compelling. I truly enjoyed how their relationship developed, and I can't wait to read more books in this series!

[Shay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arc Review

Banter? Check! Forced Proximity? Check! An MMC who wants nothing more than to be with his sniper? Check! The humor and drama of this book had me clutching audibly gasping. What more could a reader ask for!

[BK · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Rating - 3.5 stars

Tropes -
- workplace romance
- golden retriever mmc/black cat heroine
- banter for days
- he falls first
- hockey (like…hella hockey)

Tanner (Snowman) Frosky is a man obsessed (with hockey & Arden Hoss). After making a big mistake he is determined to show Arden that he is not the man she thinks he is.

The hockey speak is front & center in this book, but luckily a glossary of need-to-know lingo is included, which I absolutely used to keep up with the top-notch banter between Tanner and Arden.

I loved the way that these two put each other first, even above the one thing they loved more than anything: hockey.

Thank you to Xavier Neal for sending me this ARC - all opinions and thoughts are my own & I did enjoy this book. 🤍🏒

[April Vivas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Tanner and Arden!!! Definitely a great romance read whether you like hockey or not!! I loved all the hockey lingo and appreciate the author for including a glossary of terms to help readers understand. Another great read from this author!!!

[Teresa Lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Hoss and Snowmans heartstopping broken emotional beautiful forbidden love story
Gripping
All the feels
That twist
Ready for more

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Such a F’n beauty!”

My favorite quote throughout the book! Tanner was determined to win his slayers heart and didn’t give up until he scored his gino.

[Nat · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF

Honestly this was so difficult to read because of all the hockey slang. It wasn’t that it was used, it was how it was used. I doubt people actually talk like this ALL the time. And because the FMC worked for the team too it ended up becoming difficult to differentiate between the FMC and the MMC. When you can’t tell the different between the main characters there is a problem.

Also can we stop making women who put time and effort into their appearance “dumb bimbos”. If a woman chooses to dress a certain way or hell even get some cosmetic surgery it doesn’t automatically mean she is dumb, can’t hold a conversation and is looking to be a trophy wife. It’s overdone and honestly feels so sexist at this point.

[Lindsey Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️

As the third book in the Dalvegan Dragons series, this book can absolutely be read as a standalone. I will definitely be reading the first two though, as I thoroughly enjoyed this book and all the banter that is between the pages. This one sided enemies to lovers story is full of witty dialogue, delicious spice, and wonderful groveling. A workplace romance between a hockey player and the PR Rep he is absolutely obsessed with. If all of Xavier’s MCs are like this one, sign me up for all the books. A hockey romance where hockey is front and center as much as the romance, you definitely feel like you are immersed into the game.

Arden is the Dragon’s PR rep who has just been assigned to help with a docu series starring the one player she can’t stand. Having to follow around Tanner is not her ideal way to spend her time at work. With misunderstandings of massive proportions watching her warm up to Tanner had me giddy. As she continues to see more and more of the real Tanner, she can’t help but fall for him. Arden is definitely a strong, independent woman who is no one’s doormat.She does take a little time to warm up to, but once you do, she is a great character.

Tanner stole my heart immediately. I love when big, burly hockey men are so gone for someone and not afraid to show their softer side. He and Arden do not get off to a great start, when he mistakes her twin for her. Yet this mistake leads to amazing groveling on his part that I ate up! He is going to do whatever he can to make Arden see the real him and the docu series provides the perfect stage. As we see more and more of the real Tanner come out, I dare you to not love his character!

Hockey is front and center in this book, as stated before. If you already follow the game, you will be in your element, if not, no worries! Xavier provides a glossary to define every term she uses. I actually really appreciated how involved the sport was in this book, almost like its own character. Definitely recommend and cannot wait to read the other two books in this series!

As always, review any author notes before reading.

Tropes:
🏒Hockey Romance
🥅Golden Retriever MMC
🏒Opposites Attract
🥅Mistaken Identity
🏒Enemies to Lovers
🥅He Falls First
🏒She’s The One

[Ash Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall Plot/Storyline: 4 Stars
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️
Overall Book Rating: 3.5 ✨

I think we all know I LOVE a good hockey book!! And this book although a rough start (truly that first paragraph was rough for me because I don’t like the usage of the word bang), turned out to be a good one added to that list. I liked that a lot of the major elements of the storyline were fresh and not something I’ve read before. I absolutely adored the banter and the chemistry that I could just feel from the MCs. It was pretty obvious that Arden and Tanner were prefect for each other.

Another tough thing about this book, was the fact that the FMCs name was Arden. Because my son’s name is Ardin. So it was a little weird at times.

I loved that Arden challenged and pushed him. And in return, Tanner proved to Arden that she was perfect the way she was. That he chose her for her. That he would always accept her for the way she is and he wouldn’t have her any other way. His love and attention made her more confident in a way. I adored their friendship. And you guys… he COOKS for her! 🧑‍🍳 That is probably my absolute favorite thing!


Ultimately this is a hockey workplace, forbidden romance book. It has a touch of forced proximity, secret relationship, and enemies to lovers. The FMC is an identical twin and sometime before this book the MMC has a night with the twin. (This is in the blurb, but I won’t spoil the rest). This is the main reason that the FMC claims to hate the MMC. Her twin is awful btw.

Overall, I enjoyed this book and adored the storyline and the characters! But I do want to admit that it took me a minute to understand what was going on with the “hockey lingo.” I was utterly confused why on earth it was being used so much. But this was purely my own fault because I didn’t read the warning so I wasn’t prepared for this. And it was used majorly throughout the book. I didn’t really enjoy it all that much, honestly. If it was just one character that was using the hockey lingo highly, maybe. But it was everyone except like 2 characters. And EVERYTHING seemed to have some alternate word or verbiage. For me it was just a little much. But something that I was able to push through and overlook because I really liked the storyline and main characters!

[Amber (Amber Reads Romance) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars
🌶️🌶️.5

The Stud is the 3rd book in the Dalvegan Dragons series, but I think it can be read as a standalone because I have not read the other books in the series. This did seem a little different from the other books I have read by Xavier Neal, and it took me a bit to warm up to the dialogue and heroine. However, the hero stole my heart.

Arden has seriously misjudged Tanner and hates him, but he is obsessed and determined to win her over. He accidentally slept with her twin sister when he was drunk and thought it was actually her. Now, she is forced to follow him around as the hockey's PR/media representative to make a docu series about the fans' favorite player. Tanner is finally able to show her what an amazing guy he is, and they start a secret relationship since she s not allowed to get involved with anyone on the team.

I kind of struggled with the hockey lingo in this book. There is a glossary, but I felt like it went over my head, and I didn't want to constantly check it. I do appreciate how much hockey was featured in this book because a lot of hockey romances just barely mention it. It took a while for Arden to grow on me, but eventually, I started to like her character as she let Tanner in. Tanner honestly made this book for me. he was the perfect cinnamon-roll, sexy, hockey hero. He was so loyal to his friends and fellow teammates. I loved his relationship with his dad's. He was adorable.

Side Note:
I had some issues with the way the author would overly describe what the person was wearing an action. It just didn't flow right and kept taking me out of the story. I don't remember her doing that in other books, but maybe I just never noticed.

she crosses one dark tan mini skirt covered leg over the other.

accompanied by an open palm flying across her black, half-shirt clad chest.

How her white, long sleeve, shirt covered top half is uncontrollably shaking.

Arden pulls her light gray workout pants covered legs into her seat and rests her arms on top of them.

Thank you to the author and DS Promotions for providing the ARC.

TW: drug abuse, attempted suicide, depression - side character

[Jennifer Swift · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 3 in the Dalvegan Dragons book series and my favorite so far. This can be read as a stand alone book as well. I loved Tanner and Arden's story. I love how the MMC fell first and the lengths that he went through to win her over. Arden is forced to follow Tanner around as a PR/media representative promoting a docu series on him, the fan's favorite player to follow. Arden hates Tanner because he appears to be a player, always has a new girl, and not to mention he slept with her twin sister when he was highly intoxicated thinking it was her.

I like the tremendous growth we see in Tanner as the book progresses and we get to know him more. He is the only one that did not give up on his teammate Becks and stood by him. He loves his parents. Xavier did a great job introducing the dynamic of Snowman's family and struggles that they have faced. He listens to Arden, cooks for her, and surprises her throughout the story with things that she loves. It is funny how the smallest smile with a fan, or signing an autograph, or the smallest little thing makes the media link him to a new "relationship".

Arden character building is slow but we learn a lot more about her as the story builds. It was refreshing to see a character with a disability and how her MMC wanted to help her in any way he could. She gains confidence and learns to appreciate her own strengths. I really liked the introduction of her mother and father and how her father is very supportive and encouraging. We definitely all need a Bear in our life. I hope to see her twin sister either get some karma or have a tremendous character growth and build a healthy relationship with Arden.

I highly recommend this story and I hope we get a book for Becks. Don't sleep on this one. It is very good and will make you want to eat some chicken wings!

This is not, not my favorite Xavier book yet!

Tropes:
Golden Retriever Hero
Sports- Hockey Romance
One Bed
Forced Proximity
Mistaken Identity
Secret Romance
Disability

[Yugie Caroline · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

This is my first time to read a Xavier Neal book, and what an introduction it was. If there was one thing about this book that took me by surprise, it was was the sheer amount of hockey jargon used throughout the conversations among and between the characters. I've read my fair share of hockey romances, but it was only in this book that I've encountered so many new hockey lingo. But then of course more than that, there was the story about how one hockey player was determined to win back the affections of the woman he'd long been in love with. How unlucky had he been that the one time he got intimate with the woman of his dreams was when he was sorely inebriated and couldn't tell that the woman was not in fact the one his dreams were made of but her identical twin. Since then, he'd done all he could to make amends and prove to her that it was a grave mistake he's since profoundly regretted.

The early part of the book had me struggling to stay on, wondering when the romance and the excitement and the stress of whether they'd really get back together would finally pick up. But when it finally did, I was reading nonstop, captivated by the way the MMC doubled in his efforts on proving his commitment to the FMC. I appreciated too the bit of backstory afforded to both main characters in regards to their upbringing and how it shaped their current personas. That surely added to the appeal of the story, or else it wouldn't have been as impactful as I'd hope it would be.

I received an advanced review copy of this book for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Cody Smith-Candelaria · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first thing you have to know is that I adore Xavier's hockey series, both the college and professional ones. Her writing style really captures the essence of the sport, her characters walk the walk and talk the talk, 100% real lingo / slang that totally immerses the reader in the culture of hockey. If you haven't spent a lot of time around it, it might feel weird, but watch a couple games, catch a couple podcasts, talk to some puck heads, really listen and you'll understand that her dedication to authenticity is top notch! It's not just the sport she gives that dedication to either, she gives it to her characters with unique challenges that not everyone might know or understand, but that gives them such depth and helps to bring them to life. Having said all that, this book, #3 in the series but can be read as a standalone, is so good. Tanner, Frosky, Snowman, Hamster Boy is so freakin adorable and his commitment to do the work on and off the ice, to put his money where his mouth is, is just so commendable and makes him one of my favorite guys on the team. Arden, Hoss, Ducky is so sassy and quick-witted that I know in real life we would be friends. LOL This story is sweet, funny, complex and good from word one to the last. Plus, it reminds you of the importance of communication in all relationships, but in a subtle way. I adore it and I can't wait to see what else comes along for the team. It could be my favorite; it’s not my favorite but it’s also not not my favorite. (read the book, you’ll get that)

[Susan McWhinney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found and loved this sport, ie: Hockey, enemies to lovers story funny and edgy.
With getting my head around the hockey lingo to having Tanner bonk the wrong twin, admittedly whilst in a drunken stupor, whilst trying to win the right twins affections. Something you don't do and then let said Twinny broadcast around that she bonked the guy that her other twin had feelings for. Not that those feelings were current at all!!
So Tanner (Snowman) begins his uphill battle to win over Arden Hoss. Hoping that she will forgive him his past exploits, especially with said hated twinny....see where this is going?
Flippin hilarious! But not one to give up easily, as Tanner tries everything within his power to try and win favour with the woman he thinks he may be a "little in love" with...maybe??
I loved the banter between the players on and off the field. And especially the heated banter between Tanner and Arden, as she tries valiantly to deny feelings and avoid confrontation with Tanner, until she can't hold off any longer.
So once they FINALLY give into their feelings, things heat up. Plenty of Hoss and Snowman time off the field, but as there is a no fraternisation policy within the league they have to keep their relationship under the radar of the team Boss and coach.
Yeh, all fun and games are had with hiding in plain sight as their relationship develops.
You will love this light hearted look at romance within a sport that is dominated and led by rules.

[H · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review. Tanner is a notorious pro-hockey playboy. And he’s just hooked up with the wrong twin. Not the one he’s secretly in love with, but her sister. Arden is tough to crack on a good day, but hates him more than ever now. Tanner is determined to work overtime and show her she’s the one for him, even if he’s starting from the bench.

The writing is almost like reading a version of a Shorsey episode to start—lots of inside terms, nicknames, abbreviations and quick banter. It takes a second to get into the pace of. Once you do though, the story is pretty engaging. Tanner is aware of how bad things are. Arden barely tolerated him to start because they work together. Now that he’s slept with her sister? Not a chance. Arden is such a great contradiction. She’s a hardass that can chirp with the boys, but she’s also got her insecurities and her fears that make you feel protective of her in a way. Those fears also sometimes get in the way of her living. Tanner is a mess; he’s watching his possible life path play out with a close friend and it’s ugly. He doesn’t want to be the playboy, but anytime he sneezes, it makes headlines. He genuinely wants to change. I love that they bond over a wing obsession and food quickly becomes their love language. He’s using all his discipline and determination to prove her wrong, and try to win her heart.

[Yasmin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This standalone romance, part of the Dalvegan Dragons series, centers on the unexpected love story between Tanner (aka Snowman) Frosky and Arden Hoss. Tanner is a star player for the Dalvegan Dragons hockey team, while Arden works on the PR/media team, filming a docu-series about the team’s fan favorites. This means Arden is forced to spend plenty of time with Tanner, someone she can't stand. What she doesn’t know is that Tanner has secretly been harboring feelings for her and is determined to make her see how much he cares. There's just one catch: one drunken night, Tanner mistakenly slept with Arden’s identical twin sister, confusing her for Arden.

Though Arden is reluctant to spend time with Tanner, they spend more and more time together, and on an away game, the tension between them finally cracks. She begins to develop feelings for him as well, and the two begin to hide their growing relationship from everyone around them.

This story is packed with witty banter between Tanner and Arden, with Tanner embodying the ultimate "golden retriever" hero, while Arden remains stubborn and resistant to his charm. As the story unfolds, Arden finds herself falling for him, just as Tanner has fallen for her. I also loved that the book incorporates a lot of Hockey lingo, so if you love Hockey, you’ll love reading this book.

Their journey of self-discovery and learning to trust one another was an amazing read, and I can’t wait to read the other books in the Dalvegan Dragon’s series.

[Jessica Norris · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Stud by Xavier Neal introduces readers to another captivating couple, Arden and Tanner, who have quickly become favorites in this hockey-themed series. The chemistry between the two is undeniable, with their playful banter and unique bonding moments—like the colorful drawings on hockey sticks—adding a delightful spark to their relationship.
Tanner's dedication to breaking through Arden's tough exterior to truly get to know her is both heartwarming and admirable. His persistence in not giving up, even when Arden pushes him away, shows the depth of his character. And then there's Arden—her sassiness is absolutely chef's kiss, making her an unforgettable heroine.
While the romance between Arden and Tanner steals the show, I have to admit that I found myself not liking Arden's sister, but that's a testament to Neal's ability to craft memorable characters, even those we love to dislike.
The small glimpses of other players from the series add a wonderful layer to the story, making fans of the series feel at home. And for those who might not be familiar with hockey, don't let that hold you back. This series is easily accessible, offering a compelling romance that transcends the sport itself.
The Stud is another win for Xavier Neal, combining humor, heart, and a touch of sass. It's a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone looking for an engaging, feel-good romance

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive as an ARC 🥰

The Stud by Xavier Neal is a sizzling, drama-filled sports romance with plenty of tension, banter, and the perfect mix of angst and humour.

Tanner, the golden retriever-esque hockey star, has a big problem—his mouth. After a slip-up that puts his reputation and career at risk, he's now fighting to stay on his dream team while also dealing with the fallout from his mistake. Unfortunately, part of that fallout involves Arden—his twin sister’s best friend and the woman who seems to loathe him.

Arden is everything Tanner isn't—sharp-tongued, independent, and completely unimpressed by his charm. But when circumstances force them together (hello, one-bed trope), their fiery hate-to-love dynamic turns into something neither of them expected. The chemistry? Off the charts. The complications? Endless. Between mistaken identity, hidden feelings, and the ever-growing tension, their secret romance is a ticking time bomb.

If you love sports romances packed with playful banter, forced proximity, and a hero who is determined to win over the woman who can't stand him, The Stud delivers in all the best ways. With a mix of humour, steam, and emotional depth, this one is perfect for fans of enemies-to-lovers with a side of hockey heat.

[Rkive Imagine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stud was my first book by Xavier Neal and my first-ever hockey romance, and let me just say—I am officially obsessed. It took me a minute to get used to the hockey lingo, but the glossary? Lifesaver. Bonus points to the author for that!

Now, let’s talk about Tanner and Arden. These two work for the Dalvegan Dragons—Tanner as a player, Arden in media. And oh, Tanner is obsessed with Arden. The problem? He accidentally slept with her twin sister (yes, you read that right), ruining any chance he had with her. At least, that’s what he thinks. Add in a strict no-fraternization policy, and you've got tension so thick you could skate on it.

And oh my god, the tension. The forced proximity, the stolen glances, the undeniable chemistry—I felt every bit of it. The black cat vs. golden retriever dynamic? Chef’s kiss. The banter? Perfection. I laughed, I screamed, I kicked my feet in the air.

And the spice? Whew. Do I even need to say it? Tanner is so hot it should be illegal. Someone get me my own Tanner ASAP.

I absolutely loved this book and highly recommend it to anyone who loves sports romance, sizzling chemistry, and a hero who is down bad for his girl. Xavier Neal, you have a new fan!

[Smutty Professor · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Stud is a fiery, fun, and emotional hockey romance that delivers on the tension, banter, and slow-burn chemistry I love in the genre. Xavier Neal' story is equal parts heartfelt and hilarious, with characters that feel real and a sweet romance.

Tanner "Snowman" Frosky is an absolute gem- a reformed playboy who only has eyes for one woman, even if that woman, Arden, can’t stand him. Their relationship is tumultuous from the start, and watching Tanner work to prove himself and slowly chip away at Arden’s defenses was incredibly satisfying.

I loved the way their relationship evolved, full of witty back-and-forth, genuine vulnerability, and off-the-charts chemistry. Tanner was so respectful and caring- even after his faux-pas. His loyalty and softness made him such a standout. On the flip side, Audrey (Arden’s twin) was a character I really couldn’t stand. She brought unnecessary drama and frustration into the mix, and I found myself actively dreading her scenes.

Overall, this was a fantastic read with a great balance of spice, humor, and heart. A perfect pick for fans of sports romances with enemies-to-lovers vibes and lovable cinnamon-roll heroes.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Review of The Stud (Dalvegan Dragons Series) by Xavier Neal

5 Epic Ice-Tastic Stars!!!

I was given this book in turn for an honest review.

Love it, love it, love it! I loved this story so much! I was hooked from the first page right up until the very last page, which I read with a tear in my eye as I knew I also had to let these characters go. Tanner and Arden’s story is full humour, fun, chemistry and a little drama, the perfect mix.

I love all the hockey talk and lingo that Xavier Neal uses in her Hockey series. I don’t particularly follow Hockey myself and I’m not familiar with the lingo they use in Hockey, however it is easy to understand the lingo and fun to learn as you read Tanner and Arden’s story. Watching them use it with each other, was swoon worthy of an Oscar, I was constantly swooning at them both, my heart genuinely felt full of love.

Can not wait for the next book in this series and to get a little glimpse at Tanner and Arden, which is the beauty of Xavier’s series, she always has the previous characters play their part in the next book or mentions them, and I love it!

The Stud and the Dalvegan Series is perfect for all romance readers.

[Oriana Becerril-Vazquez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arden and Tanner's story was the perfect mix of enemies to lovers, fascinating main character banter, and spice. From the moment they were on the page the tension was palpable, intriguing, and at moments heartbreaking. Tanner: popular, skilled, mischievous, resilient, sweet, romantic...Arden: beautiful, excellent at her job, witty, compassionate, strong. This 3rd installment in the Davelgan Dragons series checked all the boxes:

🏒 Enemies to friends to lovers
🏒 Hockey Romance
🏒 Exceptional banter
🏒 Forced Proximity
🏒 Sibling Rivalry
🏒 Family Dynamics
🏒 Found Family
🏒 He Falls First
🏒 She Falls Harder

It is a story of love, of breaking down the walls we build around ourselves because of past hurts, of learning how to trust, and on how to allow ourselves to see people for who they really are and not the misconceptions we have created in our minds. It is about learning that we all deserve to have someone we can rely on and allow them to help us carry the weight that sometimes weighs us down. I loved every second of this story! Tanner new what he wanted and he chipped away at Arden's walls until she allowed him to catch her. Marvelous 4.5 stars!

[Jennifer Leigh (jenjenbookfan) · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝 is the 3rd book in the Dalvegan Dragons series by Xavier Neal, featuring a golden retriever/black cat workplace romance with some enemies to lovers vibes for Tanner and Arden. The drama is sure to be high when he has an unfortunate incident with her horrendous twin sister, despite his feelings for Arden. Add in a priceless one-bed situation, the dreaded non-fraternization policy, witty and feisty banter, some seriously smokin’ chemistry, and surprising emotional moments, and you might be ready for this hockey-intensive romance! I really enjoy this world and these compelling characters, accept for Audrey, the witchy twin (Grr 🤬😅)! Although it did take me a bit to readjust to all the lingo.🫣 Tanner and Arden had such an entertaining dynamic that was sweet, funny, and oh so spicy.🔥 The camaraderie of the team was also top notch, and I really appreciated the hockey action. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that Becks gets a story at some point!😉

I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Marni Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Stud ( Dalvegan Dragons Book 3 ) Enemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Hockey Romance, Golden Retriever Hero , Mistaken Identity, Secret Romance and all the feels . Well it really doesn’t get much better than this !!! Another unforgettable and unputdownable addition installment to a series that has completely hooked me not to mention become one of my all time favorites ( and written Xavier Neil a one click author of mine . All the angst and the humor and the witty banter , I just could not get enough of Arden and Tanner - so perfect together. But Tanner sure does have his work cut out for him, all because something he did , a simple mistake and now Arden is determined to hate him . Tanner is determined to break through her wall though , even with all the miscommunications and complexities in their relationship. He has set his mind on providing to her that she can trust him and let him in . What an emotional rollercoaster, I smiled, I laughed, I cried , I even yelled outta pure frustration at times . And I never stopped cheering so freaking hard from start to finish.

[Hopelesslyinlovewbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

RATE:3.5/5

SPICE: 3/5

Xavier Neal that was amazing! Xavier was a new author that I haven’t read a book from yet but after the Stud I will go back a read more of her books!!

Stud is about Tanner and Arden who both work for the Dalvegan Dragons. Tanner is player and Arden does media for the team. But after a series of event that happened with Arden twin sister, Tanner think his chance of being with Arden are nonexistent.

Tanner’s obsession becomes a little too much, especially when circumstances lead to him and Arden spending a a lot more time together.

This book made me laugh so much. The banter between these two characters was so enjoyable to read. The black cat and golden retriever vibe was everything. Tanner couldn’t get enough of her and she wouldn’t touch him with the 10 foot pole.

I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it for all of my followers that loves workplace romance, enemies to lovers, one bed situation and a no fraternizing policy!!

This book will be out March 14 on KU!!!