Penalty Shot

by Laura Marquez Diamond

ELISE
Randall Haughland is a professional hockey player with the face of a fairytale prince and the skills of a sex god.

Before our one-night stand, I made clear my three unbreakable rules: no commitments, no sleeping over, and no more than ten hookups.

I learned the hard way that a long-term relationship isn’t compatible with my career as a theater director. There’s already enough drama in my life.

So, when the time comes for me to leave town, I’m ready to set this playboy free. But instead of the usual cut-and-run we agree to be friends without benefits.

Unfortunately, now that Randall has become one of my best friends, the boundaries are getting blurry.

But will breaking my rules break us?

RANDALL
Elise Chen is a Shakespearean nerd with the face of an innocent sweetheart and the mind of a sex goddess.

She’s also a mythical creature: a one-night stand who says she doesn’t want commitment and freaking means it.

When she’s due to leave town for a theater gig, we agree to stay in touch as friends. It turns out we are exactly what the other needs. Unfortunately, the easy companionship we share is piled over the blood-thickening lust coursing my veins.

Friends without benefits my ass. It’s a pledge that’s turned into a curse. I want Elise. I want her more than ever.

But what if pushing her boundaries ruins what we have?

The only thing better than being her lover is being her best friend.

Genres: Hockey Romance, Hockey, Sports Romance, Romance, Sports, Humor

336 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 28, 2024

About the author

Laura writes romances featuring women who slay their own dragons and the men who love them fiercely. In her books, the fall is hard, the steam is blinding, the groveling is glorious, and the passion all-consuming.

For updates on works in progress and to connect with Laura and other readers, join the Facebook group Romancing With Laura. Follow her on Instagram and TikTok @romancinglauramd. She loves hearing from readers!

Reviews

[Dianna F · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura Marquez Diamond is one of my favourite authors and this book didn’t disappoint. This book covered a few of my fav troupes: hockey, theatre nerd, friends to lovers, and he falls first.

Elise & Randall’s relationship throughout the book was a real roller coaster. They started out was a one night stand, then friends with benefits, then just friends (no benefits), to friends and lovers. I loved seeing Elise setting the rules and only offering to be bang buddies without strings. It was entertaining as heck! Of course Randall fell first and had to work to get Elise to give him a chance. I loved how this played out!

I loved how this book kept me guessing about what will happen next and watching hoe everything unfolds. This is an awesome book and I hope you enjoy it too!

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh! That was just so good and so sweet. (Though there’s a ton of heat in there too.) Elise and Randall could be the textbook definition of an emotional roller-coaster. Their chemistry crackles from the first moment we see them, and it’s constantly pulling them together for both good and ill. I loved how this book took the “reformed player” theme and applied it to both our hero and heroine. And it was really fun to watch their progression from lust to friendship to love. I may have only just finished this book but I already can’t wait to see what the author has in store for us next.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.

[Jessica LaMee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was not sure I was going to like this book since i have not read a hockey romance before, and I normally read dark romance, but I loved it. The Elise and Randhall are amazing together, and their story of falling in love and the trials they go through was cute and sweet. I will definitely be adding more of Laura Marquez Diamonds books to my TBR list.

[s a r a h ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a hockey romance girlie and this hit the spot, it was everything. I loved the fact Elise was honest about her feelings from the start and I loved how Randall was so open. I won't go too much into details but if you love hockey romance you'll love this

[Jessi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a cute read. I loved how Elise and Randall’s relationship progressed. Randall was just the sweetest he really cared and loved everything about Elise and he was perfect for her.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Penalty Shot by Laura Marquez Diamond is part of The Columbus Mavericks Series. After reading the other three books I knew I had to continue with it especially after reading the book blurb. I read this quickly as each chapter just kept getting better and better. It combines some of my favorite tropes together that being a hockey romance with a second chance as well as it being a nerd/jock theme. I absolutely loved how the characters were portrayed, Elise and Randall were a breath of fresh air for me. I enjoyed reading how honest and open they were to each other. That he fell first and she was the one setting all the rules in place. I think my favorite aspect is how they work out their issues that arise being in a relationship instead of brushing them under a rug. I thought the writing was good with a flowing plot. I was able to imagine everything within the book, especially the conversations and decisions. Everything just flowed for me. Would definitely recommend this book.

Final review:
4 out of 5 stars

[Penny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the synopsis for this book and did not think a theater nerd and a professional hockey player could work and be realistic. But I was wrong! I should know not to question Ms. Diamond because she just knows how to create the best crazy matchups! I loved Elise - strong willed and knows what she wants, in and out of the bedroom! I also fell in love with Randall. It hurt to see how self-deprecating he could be. The friends to lovers trope is such a great one and watching them fall in love through their texts was wonderful. It was fun that they took the time to become friends and it really grew their characters for me. Randall is such a great boyfriend and really broke down Elise's walls. I loved that he understood and supported her passion in theater. Elise became an amazing girlfriend and really helped Randall see the value in himself as a goalie and also helped him start to repair his relationships with his family. I did not want this book to end. But, the ending was a good one. I'm still sighing happily over it!

[Mrs R · Rating 4 out of 5]

One night leads to a friends with benefits, leads to just friends then lovers. I love how Elise was the one setting all the rules and only wanting no strings, it was just so different as it's usually the guy wanting no commitments, Randall is more than happy with the rules, until he catches feelings.

This was so sweet, and I love that Randall fell first. He really showed his softer side when he was being a friend to Elise. A chunk of the book is them being friends so you really get to know the characters and see them falling for each other, I love watching characters fall for each other.

Both have issues with being in a relationship but they talk and work through things rather than bottle them up.

There are some great side characters too, a few of the hockey team make an appearance along with Elise's mum and best friend.

- standalone
- hockey
- theatre nerd
- friends to lovers
- he falls first

[Chiareads98 · Rating 1 out of 5]

Unfortunately, I had to dnf. I love hockey romance stories but this one was a no for me. Let's start with our MMC. He's a backup goalie who by his admission is a backup "you know the one who played once every ten games or so when the main goalie needs a break? The one with the perfect hair and all his teeth intact, and an unsoiled jersey That would be me. I'm what's called the second goalie, the backup, the spare." Ok not the most flattering self-description but ok. Unfortunately, it was the bedroom scene that did me in. I love some good spice but "Throwing my head back and making animal sounds" .... "His blue eyes nearly black" ..this is a human romance not shifter "A manly groan leaves his body" ...what is a "manly" groan? "he growls as the the last of powerful surges detonate another explosion inside me" The chosen descriptors were either odd or made little sense. The blurb was very promising and with time I'm sure this author will become great but personally, this book was a no.

[Madison_renee2415 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this!!!!

I am really loving this series!

Randall is the backup goalie for the Mavericks hockey team. He can never take a compliment, he always thinks he could’ve done better. One night he sees this beautiful Asian woman in a club that is not dressed for the club and immediately needs to talk to her.
Elise works at a school theatre and has finished writing a play and is hoping it will get picked up and get to direct it.

The spice is amazing, especially the ‘yes sir’ *wink*. Randall doesn’t want to lose her so they come up with being Friends without benefits- that was interesting to watch unfold. I loved how they both encouraged each other with their careers, oh and yes there was a “you’re not wearing another man’s number except mine” moment (these are my favorite moments!).

[Lory · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don’t know what it is about these hockey romances that’s really drawn me in. I’m so clueless when it comes to the sport in general, but still I can’t seem to get enough of these romances. I absolutely loved Randall and Elise Love story. I love the fact that Elise was so honest about her feelings from the get-go, so there was no confusion or misunderstanding, and the fact that Randall was still open and excepting Was awesome. I don’t want to give too much away, but I will say this I loved everything about this book I loved all the trials and tribulations that they experience and just the whole fact of opposites attract theme. As always, my book reviews are totally voluntary, and no monetary compensation was received the opinions that I have expressed or completely my own.

[Julorie Siefert · Rating 5 out of 5]

One night after a game Randall and the hockey team decide to go out for the evening, as Randall enters the room just like in the song “Some Enchanted Evening you look across a crowed room” he sees Elise the most beautiful women in the room. Her attitude towards life matches his. They start off great, then Randall meets Elise's mom, and friends. He comes to appreciate her more and more. What is even surprising is Elise with her “three rules”is beginning to want to throw them out the window. Reading how they grow and learn to trust one another and respect each others careers allowing each other the space they need, well just lets says it does make for an interesting story you won't want not to miss reading. And OK Hockey fans you will love to read about this team.

[Joanne]

🫠⛸️🏒🎭 Beautifully written friends to lovers

Omg this book. I've read many by this author with hockey being at the centre but this new angle or hookups to friends to lovers worked so freakin well!
Randall had me swooning the entire book and Elise is so independent and brave putting herself out there against her better judgement (eventually).
This may be my fave from the Mavericks.
The character development had even more depth than the others I've read and the insght, world build and complete immersion you manage is perfection.
I've come close to tears a few times in the book and laughed out loud a plenty.
I can't gush enough, I love those characters and it's a depthful read with lots of spice and a steady believable storyline.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶🌶🌶

[Alexandra Klimowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

This might be my favorite book out of the Columbus Mavericks series! Laura created two characters who may seem like polar opposites but are truly connected to one another deep down once they open their hearts to the idea of a relationship. Elise is a theater kid with some relationship issues due to past boyfriends, which honestly I feel like most of us can connect with. Randall is a playboy who didn’t know what he was missing until he met Elise. Together they help each other heal and realize their love and appreciation for each other is the most important thing. Elise and Randall’s love story is one that I believe many can connect with and in the end made me feel all the feels! I can’t wait for Laura’s next book!

[Holly Rife · Rating 5 out of 5]

H E 🏒🏒 This book is HAWT!!! Handle with care!

Elise and Randall (a hockey star) meet in a bar… Elise is beautiful, smart, and funny and they have a good time, so one things lead to another and sparks fly!! Elise has rules to keep things casual, so as they ride things out, they become friends without benefits.

I adore this book concept!!! They *know* they are compatible and they have the strong sense of companionship as their friendship grows..This way, we get to see their conversations as they learn about each other. I love their character arcs and how they each affect the other’s healing. And the chemistry - Holy Smokes!!! They are so hot!! I love them so much! This hockey book is a win for me!

[Sabrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Penalty Shot was a fun jock/nerd love affair.

Elise, a theater nerd who doesn’t want commitment meets the stunning Randall, the hot hockey player, and decide that night they want a little extra beside their drinks. Elise, is up front and lets Randall know she has rules and he agrees to her rules and they become friends without benefits. What neither of them realize is that the chemistry they share is off the charts. Randall lets Elise be herself and Elise encourages Randall in the best of ways. Over time their chemistry and friendship is explosive and turns into much more. I enjoyed every bit of this book and the whole opposites attract theme.

[Bella Street · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elise is a theater nerd who doesn’t do commitment and has rules when it comes to sleeping with guys. Randall is a hot hockey player who doesn’t settle down or have the time for it. He agrees to her rules and they become friends with benefits. Then things get complicated and they become friends without benefits. And thennnn they realize their chemistry is too strong to ignore. Randall is the first guy to actually love her for who she is and prioritize her and her career. And she makes him want to be better in all ways on and off the ice. They are each other's perfect match, but their passion may end up being their demise.

PS her mom is HILARIOUS.

[Kira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loving this series is an understatement... I am addicted! Penalty Shot featured Randall and Elsie, and wow, they were on fire with all the passion! I love how the two seemed to bring out the best in each other. They started off as just lovers that led to friends without benefits practically best friends to then realizing both needed more. Especially for Randall! When he fell for Elsie, he truly and full heartedly fell for her. So stinker sweet! I love second chance stories, and this one definitely had a unique take on it. All in all, this was an addicting read, and I can't wait to see what is next for The Columbus Mavericks!

[Kerri Vogel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hockey romances are all the rage these days and this one did not disappoint. It was well written with great charisma between the two main characters, Elise and Randall. I loved that he fell first and she was the one placing rules on their relationship and keeping it casual. I also enjoyed that he was content as the backup goalie. It was refreshing and a different twist from the typical star athlete on the team. I love the nerdy/theater aspect and I really enjoyed seeing how it can be just as demanding of her time as being a professional athlete. I will definitely be gobbling up all the other books in this stand alone series.

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

A part of The Columbus Mavericks series, this can be read as a standalone, but I love how addictive this series has become for me. A hocky sports romance read with our main characters Elise and Randall that is sure to captivate. It's both sweet and steamy with Elise being a bit of a nerdy character and Randall the jock. Page after page was quickly devoured as their journey to love was so cute and sweet (and did I mention there was some steam too)! I love how this relationship began and evolved. A great read and I can't wait for more!

This book was given to me for free at my request and I voluntarily provided this review.

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was unsure at first and took me a while to get into it but once I did I really started to love the direction of the story. Randal is just an amazing and sweet character. Loved how Elise made him a better man, one his mother would be proud of. Swoon worthy! 😜

Started out as a basic fling, friends with benefits, to just simply friends as they both navigated through their busy careers. But that friendship blossomed into something they both never expected. They started to fall in love.

They ended up being the perfect couple and I was so relieved they got their happy ever after. They had to face some challenges first but they over come them all. Was a overall a beautiful and spicey story.

[Anoesjka Connolly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was another intriguing story full of passion and steam. Randall is the second goalie for the Mavericks, whilst Elise is a playwright and director - such an unexpected combination. After their initial fling, they remain friends and I loved the way their friendship grows and their need for each other is so obvious - to everyone else! I loved how this story played out, and I loved their HEA. There was plenty of spice and steam and lots of crazy hook ups. I loved how they both got so involved in each other's worlds and wanted the best for each other. Another great instalment in the Columbia Mavericks series!

[Allison6876 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Didn't love Elise. Her complete over reactions to some situations was unbelievably irrational yet in others she would be very mature and supportive, it practically gave me whiplash. I don't find this charming in a relationship, I find it tiresome. Her reaction to the trade was crazy! Her childish behavior and refusal to discuss anything when his multimillion-dollar career has thrown them an unexpected curveball was ridiculous. She was unemployed, with a job that could be done anywhere! Particularly when he had previously shown how supportive he was of her career opportunities with her play that pervious summer.

[JackaayReadsallday · Rating 5 out of 5]

I normally read dark/extremely dark romance but I have come to love the lightness I get from A LMD book. She does hockey romance so well that I’m almost squealing when I see I get more of the hockey world from her books. I didn’t realize that this was a standalone in a connected series so imma be binging those as soon as I can.
Elise and Randall are so sweet and spicy right from the very beginning it almost gave me a toothache. & bless their little hearts thinking they could just be friends. I loved getting to watch their FWB/FWNB relationship blossom into the love in the last chapter of the book. Not gonna lie, totally had a happy tear for them.

[Corrinne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Loved reading Elise’s and Randall’s one night stand turn into friends with benefits to best friends to lovers. This was a refreshing take on lovers to friends to lovers and there was angst and that but it was just a nice story of love and friendship growing and also character growing, not just for Randall but for Elsie to.I would have loved more of his family would be good to have another book with that and what Happens but also hope Gordon’s book is next ! Elsie seems like a such easy going fun character a friend everyone would like.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura Marquez Diamond's penalty shot is the fourth in the Columbus Mavericks Series. I liked how Randall fell first, then Elise set the limits for their relationship while keeping it casual. I am really enjoying this series. I appreciated how he understood and supported her passion for theater. I absolutely loved Elise and Randall's story! I enjoyed watching their relationship grow and how they supported one another. Well written, with a captivating plot and relatable characters, it's an amazing story. A really enjoyable read.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story was the perfect blend of sweet and spicy! Elise and Randall have immediate and undeniable chemistry. Randall gave me the warm fuzzies for the entire book - it's the kind of sweet love and adoration that I want for all people. I think my favorite part of the book was the argument/'fight' scene, because it showed how straightforward an argument can be with two mature adults that have made mistakes and acknowledge them. It's so rare to see in a romance book (since authors tend to like long drawn out arguments for plot) so I found it was a refreshing part of this novel.

[Lisa Bing · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another fun and entertaining read for the series. Elise and Randall go through a roller coaster of a relationship - one nighter, friends with benefits, friends without benefits and then a true couple ;P This facet really kept me guessing how things would unfold. I do love that Randall fell first but don't think it'll be an easy ride because of that - she really made him work for it. Lol! They were an awesome couple that I couldn't help root for. If you love a sweet romance that'll twist you up with the possibilities, and fab spice, you'll enjoy this one ;D

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this!

I felt so many emotions throughout this book. I even got a few laughs at Elise and Randall s sarcasm and their banter. Oh when these two draw up rules to just basically be friends with benefits , I knew it was only a matter of time they caught feelings. There was some nice spicy scenes , as for me I loved the shower one when Elise hurt her wrist and Randall was helping her shower. I almost cried toward the end but it definitely turned out better than i anticipated. I really enjoyed this book!

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a great light-hearted, low angst, moderate spice, friends-to-lovers hockey romance. Overall the writing is very well done and gives just the right level of detail mixed with action to push the story along. I love all the main characters and loved following their stories. Occasionally this story delves into a bit of corniness but it is corniness in the best sense. I finished the book in a single sitting and absolutely will read other books by this author!