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Team Players #1
Pucking the Team
Imagine landing your dream job only to find your heart entangled with not one, but four NHL stars, each vying for a place in your life.
I grew up with hockey in my blood. Becoming the new social media manager for the Chicago Blizzards was my dream job.
I thought I knew everything about the game, including how to guard my heart against the infamous charms of hockey players.
I was wrong.
First, there's Lukas, the forward whose flirtations could melt the ice he plays on. Then there's Ryan, the defenseman whose stoic exterior hides depths of loyalty. Alex, the skills coach, challenges me to see beyond the game, while Slade, our team captain, reveals a vulnerability that calls to me in a way I never anticipated.
As I navigate my new role, my heart, and the dramas of the NHL, I'm confronted with a choice that could change the course of my life. Can I truly embrace a love so unconventional with not just one, but four men who have come to mean everything to me?
TROPES:
Pro Hockey Romance
Why Choose/Reverse Harem/Polyamory
MM Enemies-to-Lovers
Childhood Crush
Only One Bed
Workplace Affair
Secret Romance
Found Family
Sports Genius Heroine
Touch Her and Die
I grew up with hockey in my blood. Becoming the new social media manager for the Chicago Blizzards was my dream job.
I thought I knew everything about the game, including how to guard my heart against the infamous charms of hockey players.
I was wrong.
First, there's Lukas, the forward whose flirtations could melt the ice he plays on. Then there's Ryan, the defenseman whose stoic exterior hides depths of loyalty. Alex, the skills coach, challenges me to see beyond the game, while Slade, our team captain, reveals a vulnerability that calls to me in a way I never anticipated.
As I navigate my new role, my heart, and the dramas of the NHL, I'm confronted with a choice that could change the course of my life. Can I truly embrace a love so unconventional with not just one, but four men who have come to mean everything to me?
TROPES:
Pro Hockey Romance
Why Choose/Reverse Harem/Polyamory
MM Enemies-to-Lovers
Childhood Crush
Only One Bed
Workplace Affair
Secret Romance
Found Family
Sports Genius Heroine
Touch Her and Die
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 10, 2024
475 people are currently reading
678 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
August 26, 2024
What fresh hell did I just read? It’s messy, it’s a bit icky, and it’s filled with instalove. If you saw my updates throughout this read, I’m sure my low rating doesn’t come as a surprise at all, maybe you even expected lower. I’ll be honest: I also expected to rate this lower, but I decided to give it the second star because if it had anything, it had the audacity.
The Plot
Honestly? It didn’t really have one but I’ll do my best lmao.
Emma Collins has landed herself a job as a social media manager for The Blizzards, a hockey team her dad used to coach. Before starting her job, she and a friend go to a club they know the team will be at to ‘scope them out’ before they put their “PR faces on” at work. She flirts a little with Lukas and Slade, two players on the team, but ends up leaving alone.
Monday comes around and she sees the guys again (obviously) and decides she has a crush on them both. Later she bumps into Alex, the team’s skills coach, and remembers him from when her dad was coaching. She also remembers she had a huge crush on him as a youngster, and quickly realises that she still does.
Lukas has history with a new player on the team, Ryan, and it’s causing tensions to run high and affecting the team. During a game, Lukas goads Ryan until Ryan punches him. Emma is put onto damage control and is sent with Ryan to Detroit to volunteer with a local kids hockey team, aiming to take pictures of him with the kids to garner some good publicity for Ryan. During the trip she realises that Ryan ‘isn’t what she thought’ and she decides she likes him too.
Lukas and Alex know about each other, but Ryan doesn’t know about them and they don’t know about him. They find out when Emma has an asthma attack at work without her inhaler nearby and she passes out, bonks her head and ends up in hospital. Lukas and Alex are at her bedside when she comes to, then Ryan arrives. An argument ensues, Lukas and Alex agree to continue seeing Emma together, and Ryan agrees to continue seeing her alone. After a date with Ryan, Emma goes to Lukas and Alex’s place for a booty call, and wakes up the following morning to Slade (who also lives with L&A) making pancakes. They haven’t spoken much since that night at the club, but Slade decides he wants in on the action too and agrees to join with Lukas and Alex to make their trio dates quadruple dates. They come up with a plan to get Ryan on board too. It works.
Ryan falls in love with not only Emma, but Lukas too.
Pictures are leaked to the press of Emma, Ryan and Lukas on a date and looking cozy, and Emma loses her job. The guys band together and get her job back. They buy a house and live happily ever after, the end.
My Thoughts
First off, my main issue with this book is the weird way the MM scenes happen. It’s uncomfortable, and honestly feels kinda problematic although I can’t express exactly why. I’ll do my best to summarise all of the moments the book made me say ‘yikes’, so bear with me here…
1. The ONLY bisexual member of the relationship is Lukas, and Lukas is a play boy manwhore, which is a harmful stereotype of bi individuals that this book perpetuated. Yike number 1.
2. So Ryan and Emma go on this trip to Detroit right? One bed trope comes out to play which is always fun. The pair end up having this mutual masturbation session because Ryan insists that having sex is a bad idea bc they’re colleagues. The next day they talk and Ryan decides he can’t stay away from her. He asks her if he can take her out on some dates and see where things go, and she agrees. They EXPLICITLY AGREE that they will NOT be exclusive and are free to see other people too. Ryan doesn’t know she’s already seeing Alex and Lukas. Here comes my second yike! So Emma has an asthma attack at work and doesn’t have her inhaler with her. She goes to find help but passes out in the hallway, bonks her head and wakes up in the hospital. Alex and Lukas are at her bedside when she wakes. Ryan then shows up and all three of the guys freak out about it?? Ryan has the biggest problem with it, even though if you remember their conversation from Detroit, they agreed Emma could see other people… so like why are we freaking out here?? After they make up (which doesn’t take long) Ryan takes her on a date, and they almost sleep together again. Ryan decides he wants to take it slowly because he doesn’t want to jeopardise their budding relationship by complicating it “after all they’ve been through”…? My guy, you’ve known each other for A WEEK and the only thing you’ve ’been through’ is you getting angry because Emma did exactly what she said she’d do and saw other people. You’ve not been through ANYTHING, chill tf out. Yikes.
3. There are two (yes, TWO) MM scenes that come out of nowhere. The first occurs the morning after the booty call when Slade decides he wants a bit of the action over breakfast. Alex and Lukas walk into the kitchen and find Slade giving oral to Emma. Once they’re done, Lukas makes a comment about Slade’s ‘skilled mouth’ and says he’s a little jealous, and Slade implies he would suck Lukas’ 🍆. Prior to this neither Slade or Lukas have shown ANY interest in each other despite being friends for YEARS, and Slade has never shown interest in men, period. He even says (the chapter is in Slade’s POV) that he’s never identified as anything but straight and never had any reason to question it. This was completely out of left field. Alex then decides that he wants Emma to suck him while they “let the boys play”, Emma is more than eager and with no further discussion they get to it, with Slade sucking Lukas and swallowing while Emma and Alex watch and have oral beside them. Emma and Slade then have penetrative sex while Lukas and Alex watch. Afterwards, they decide they all need to talk about their relationship, and the only acknowledgment of this out of nowhere blow job Slade gave Lukas was (summarised) “I thought you were straight” “I am but for the sake of this relationship between all of us I’ll remain open minded”. Slade is then never intimate with another one of the men again and it seems to just be forgotten?? It seems like Slade basically did it because Alex and Emma decided for him? Like sure he kind of brought it up but… I mean it was one innuendo then suddenly it was happening. Because the chapter was in Slade’s POV, we see he’s kinda into it (?) but not really… like he’s just thinking about doing a good job and about how his own dick is being neglected. Then, like I said, after that very short conversation afterwards Slade never shows interest in any of the guys again and it’s never mentioned again. It just felt weird and the whole situation had a strange undertone of gay fetishisation. Seriously, like Slade made one throwaway comment then because Emma seemed into it and someone else made the decision for him he went through with it. Idk it gave me the ick and is my third Yike. More on the second weird MM scene later.
4. Ryan showed so much promise at first, when he and Emma were first bonding in Detroit, he seemed like he could’ve been a great character… but then his entire personality seems to disappear and his only personality trait is talking about his huge scary dick™️. Apparently, the thing is a monster and it intimidates and scares girls off… but not Emma, no no no, she saw it and didn’t look intimidated, therefore Ryan decides he’s falling in love with her because his big bad penis™️ didn’t scare her off. The sheer amount of times I had to read about this man’s dick being scary, huge and intimidating… I got so sick of reading about it, I awarded it its own Yike. I mean, seriously, come the fuck on! We get it, your dick is huge and it’s caused you problems with girls before, but you don’t need to make it your only personality trait.
5. I mentioned in the plot summary that Ryan and Lukas have a history - the TLDR of their beef is that while they were in college, Lukas and Slade were roomies. Ryan was Slade’s childhood bestie and decided to visit Slade at college with his then-girlfriend Madison. Ryan later enters Slade and Lukas’ dorm to find Madison on top of Lukas, and Lukas just smiled at Ryan. Ryan was heartbroken and Lukas let Ryan hate him for fucking his girlfriend. Turns out, Lukas was black out drunk and told Madison no and tried to push her off but it didn’t work and Madison SA’ed him. This plot point is handled in the following way:
-Lukas tells Emma
-Emma tells Lukas it wasn’t his fault and suggests therapy
-Lukas turns down therapy saying it’s not for him and asks Emma to keep it to herself. Emma agrees.
-approx 50% of the book goes by with no further mention, until Slade arranges for Lukas and Ryan to meet and clear the air
-On the drive to the bar to meet Ryan, Lukas mentions (chapter is in his POV) that he’s been going to therapy after all
-Lukas tells Ryan the truth
-Ryan says it’s not Lukas’ fault and apologises for blaming him, even though Lucas deliberately let him believe he seduced and stole his girlfriend for years. They agree to try and be friendly.
-Lukas flirts with Ryan for a little bit, Ryan is flustered and embarrassed by it
-Chapter ends, the SA is never mentioned again, nor is Lukas’ therapy ever mentioned again.
A huge YIKE for how the author handled this because like… such a huge, life altering experience shouldn’t be reduced to a few lines of conversation then one brief mention of therapy half the book later to then never be mentioned again isn’t how something as serious as Sexual Assault should be treated in fictional writing. If you’re going to make SA a plot point in your book, brushing it off like it’s no big deal isn’t the way to do it.
6. The second weird MM scene. So to set the scene this time, all 5 of our main characters have had dinner together and after a conversation about their individual relationships with Emma, they’ve agreed to form a Polycule. Ryan is yet to have penetrative sex with Emma because he’s scared of hurting her with his scary huge penis™️ (I refer you back to point number 4). He decides he wants to see the dynamic between Emma and the other three to decide if he’s comfortable joining in future. We get a scene where Emma takes Slade in her mouth, Alex in the front and Lukas in the back. After being DP’d while sucking a dick, Emma decides she wants Ryan and he agrees. Unfortunately his big intimidating penis™️ is too big for Emma - she takes about 3 inches then nopes out. Lukas straight up goes up to Ryan and says “I can take it, fuck me” out of nowhere. Ryan and his monstrous appendage™️ are unsure, because Ryan is straight and has past beef with Lukas and also has a massive frightening dick™️. He looks to Emma, who is now standing with Alex and Slade watching this exchange, and Emma says “do it, it’s so hot” and starts masturbating (yucky already, fetishising gay men again). Ryan gives in and agrees (again yucky and peer pressure-y, kinda feels like he was coerced into consenting). He then lubes up Lukas’ ass and immediately puts his dick in it… NO PREP!! He’s supposed to have this freaky monster cock™️ and he just shoves it straight into Lukas’ unprepped asshole in one shot, and Lukas is just like “cool gimme a sec to adjust… ok good to go, fuck me HARD”??? I think the fuck not. Meanwhile, Slade and Alex are just standing there watching and Emma is having a grand ol’ time masturbating while watching them and going on about how hot it is. Why are we focusing on the female’s pleasure during a MM scene? Also, why does it feel like Ryan is only doing this because Emma finds it hot? Also also, why are we writing about two men having sex but catering it to the female gaze, again fetishising queer relationships and queer sex? If your story is meant to have queer representation, can we PLEASE actually build the relationship, not make it seem coerced, not have it come out of ABSOLUTE NOWHERE and actually have the characters be attracted to one another or at least have a discussion BEFORE they have sex? Especially when one of those characters identify as straight then basically agrees to have same-sex intercourse because a bi dude propositions him in front of 2 other guys and his girlfriend after his girlfriend had to stop during sex. Maybe a little bit of questioning his sexuality or AT LEAST curiosity BEFORE an experience like that? Maybe DON’T have the girlfriend fetishise it and tell him to do it because *she* thinks it’s hot and wants to watch and masturbate to it? Idk just a suggestion. The entire situation felt really icky and sleazy, I was wildly uncomfortable reading it, and it got a BIG YIKE from me.
7. The fact the author literally writes Ryan going from “I’m straight and have a big scary dick™️” to “I’m in love with my girlfriend AND one of her other boyfriends who I hated until maybe a week or two ago then fucked one time because my girlfriend thought it was hot”, and this progression was done within 2% of the book (yes, you read that right, TWO PERCENT). During that 2% we get ZERO Ryan and Lukas content, we just make that leap and are expected to accept it, despite the previous 70% of the book where they hate each other. Yikes.
8. I’m going to award Ryan’s huge intimidating dick™️ an extra yike because, seriously, I had to read about it SO MANY TIMES and it was randomly brought up from time to time for no reason, so it feels fitting that I do the same in my review. Ryan has a frightening large penis™️, in case you didn’t know. Oh, and did I mention that Ryan has a monstrous appendage™️? Yeah in case you didn’t know and it wasn’t mentioned, Ryan’s got a scary substantial schlong™️. YIKE.
So… yeah, that’s that. I can’t recommend this book because I genuinely felt like my sanity was slipping away from me while reading this. I originally planned to take one for the team and read the second book in this series (yes, I’m serious, there’s a book 2. I wish I was kidding) but luckily for me and my brain cells, book 2 is an interlinked standalone and NOT a continuation of the relationship in this book so I don’t have to read it, therefore I won’t. My brain matter has taken enough of a beating from this book, and I’ve decided to skip the next book for my own peace. The moral of my review here is this: if you want to write a queer poly romance, that’s great…BUT don’t be lazy about it. Capture the struggles, the difficult conversations, the emotional impact. And for the love of god, PLEASE don’t fetishise the queer relationships or include it because it’s ‘hot’.
Trigger and Content Warnings
Mention of historic sexual assault (male assaulted by woman. Off page, discussed in limited detail)
Fetishisation of homosexual relationships (specifically gay/bi men)
Uncomfortable sexual situations between characters
Death of parents (historic, discussed in limited detail)
**Please check trigger warnings before reading. Look after yourself, your mental health is important. You are loved and you matter**
The Plot
Honestly? It didn’t really have one but I’ll do my best lmao.
Emma Collins has landed herself a job as a social media manager for The Blizzards, a hockey team her dad used to coach. Before starting her job, she and a friend go to a club they know the team will be at to ‘scope them out’ before they put their “PR faces on” at work. She flirts a little with Lukas and Slade, two players on the team, but ends up leaving alone.
Monday comes around and she sees the guys again (obviously) and decides she has a crush on them both. Later she bumps into Alex, the team’s skills coach, and remembers him from when her dad was coaching. She also remembers she had a huge crush on him as a youngster, and quickly realises that she still does.
Lukas has history with a new player on the team, Ryan, and it’s causing tensions to run high and affecting the team. During a game, Lukas goads Ryan until Ryan punches him. Emma is put onto damage control and is sent with Ryan to Detroit to volunteer with a local kids hockey team, aiming to take pictures of him with the kids to garner some good publicity for Ryan. During the trip she realises that Ryan ‘isn’t what she thought’ and she decides she likes him too.
Lukas and Alex know about each other, but Ryan doesn’t know about them and they don’t know about him. They find out when Emma has an asthma attack at work without her inhaler nearby and she passes out, bonks her head and ends up in hospital. Lukas and Alex are at her bedside when she comes to, then Ryan arrives. An argument ensues, Lukas and Alex agree to continue seeing Emma together, and Ryan agrees to continue seeing her alone. After a date with Ryan, Emma goes to Lukas and Alex’s place for a booty call, and wakes up the following morning to Slade (who also lives with L&A) making pancakes. They haven’t spoken much since that night at the club, but Slade decides he wants in on the action too and agrees to join with Lukas and Alex to make their trio dates quadruple dates. They come up with a plan to get Ryan on board too. It works.
Ryan falls in love with not only Emma, but Lukas too.
Pictures are leaked to the press of Emma, Ryan and Lukas on a date and looking cozy, and Emma loses her job. The guys band together and get her job back. They buy a house and live happily ever after, the end.
My Thoughts
First off, my main issue with this book is the weird way the MM scenes happen. It’s uncomfortable, and honestly feels kinda problematic although I can’t express exactly why. I’ll do my best to summarise all of the moments the book made me say ‘yikes’, so bear with me here…
1. The ONLY bisexual member of the relationship is Lukas, and Lukas is a play boy manwhore, which is a harmful stereotype of bi individuals that this book perpetuated. Yike number 1.
2. So Ryan and Emma go on this trip to Detroit right? One bed trope comes out to play which is always fun. The pair end up having this mutual masturbation session because Ryan insists that having sex is a bad idea bc they’re colleagues. The next day they talk and Ryan decides he can’t stay away from her. He asks her if he can take her out on some dates and see where things go, and she agrees. They EXPLICITLY AGREE that they will NOT be exclusive and are free to see other people too. Ryan doesn’t know she’s already seeing Alex and Lukas. Here comes my second yike! So Emma has an asthma attack at work and doesn’t have her inhaler with her. She goes to find help but passes out in the hallway, bonks her head and wakes up in the hospital. Alex and Lukas are at her bedside when she wakes. Ryan then shows up and all three of the guys freak out about it?? Ryan has the biggest problem with it, even though if you remember their conversation from Detroit, they agreed Emma could see other people… so like why are we freaking out here?? After they make up (which doesn’t take long) Ryan takes her on a date, and they almost sleep together again. Ryan decides he wants to take it slowly because he doesn’t want to jeopardise their budding relationship by complicating it “after all they’ve been through”…? My guy, you’ve known each other for A WEEK and the only thing you’ve ’been through’ is you getting angry because Emma did exactly what she said she’d do and saw other people. You’ve not been through ANYTHING, chill tf out. Yikes.
3. There are two (yes, TWO) MM scenes that come out of nowhere. The first occurs the morning after the booty call when Slade decides he wants a bit of the action over breakfast. Alex and Lukas walk into the kitchen and find Slade giving oral to Emma. Once they’re done, Lukas makes a comment about Slade’s ‘skilled mouth’ and says he’s a little jealous, and Slade implies he would suck Lukas’ 🍆. Prior to this neither Slade or Lukas have shown ANY interest in each other despite being friends for YEARS, and Slade has never shown interest in men, period. He even says (the chapter is in Slade’s POV) that he’s never identified as anything but straight and never had any reason to question it. This was completely out of left field. Alex then decides that he wants Emma to suck him while they “let the boys play”, Emma is more than eager and with no further discussion they get to it, with Slade sucking Lukas and swallowing while Emma and Alex watch and have oral beside them. Emma and Slade then have penetrative sex while Lukas and Alex watch. Afterwards, they decide they all need to talk about their relationship, and the only acknowledgment of this out of nowhere blow job Slade gave Lukas was (summarised) “I thought you were straight” “I am but for the sake of this relationship between all of us I’ll remain open minded”. Slade is then never intimate with another one of the men again and it seems to just be forgotten?? It seems like Slade basically did it because Alex and Emma decided for him? Like sure he kind of brought it up but… I mean it was one innuendo then suddenly it was happening. Because the chapter was in Slade’s POV, we see he’s kinda into it (?) but not really… like he’s just thinking about doing a good job and about how his own dick is being neglected. Then, like I said, after that very short conversation afterwards Slade never shows interest in any of the guys again and it’s never mentioned again. It just felt weird and the whole situation had a strange undertone of gay fetishisation. Seriously, like Slade made one throwaway comment then because Emma seemed into it and someone else made the decision for him he went through with it. Idk it gave me the ick and is my third Yike. More on the second weird MM scene later.
4. Ryan showed so much promise at first, when he and Emma were first bonding in Detroit, he seemed like he could’ve been a great character… but then his entire personality seems to disappear and his only personality trait is talking about his huge scary dick™️. Apparently, the thing is a monster and it intimidates and scares girls off… but not Emma, no no no, she saw it and didn’t look intimidated, therefore Ryan decides he’s falling in love with her because his big bad penis™️ didn’t scare her off. The sheer amount of times I had to read about this man’s dick being scary, huge and intimidating… I got so sick of reading about it, I awarded it its own Yike. I mean, seriously, come the fuck on! We get it, your dick is huge and it’s caused you problems with girls before, but you don’t need to make it your only personality trait.
5. I mentioned in the plot summary that Ryan and Lukas have a history - the TLDR of their beef is that while they were in college, Lukas and Slade were roomies. Ryan was Slade’s childhood bestie and decided to visit Slade at college with his then-girlfriend Madison. Ryan later enters Slade and Lukas’ dorm to find Madison on top of Lukas, and Lukas just smiled at Ryan. Ryan was heartbroken and Lukas let Ryan hate him for fucking his girlfriend. Turns out, Lukas was black out drunk and told Madison no and tried to push her off but it didn’t work and Madison SA’ed him. This plot point is handled in the following way:
-Lukas tells Emma
-Emma tells Lukas it wasn’t his fault and suggests therapy
-Lukas turns down therapy saying it’s not for him and asks Emma to keep it to herself. Emma agrees.
-approx 50% of the book goes by with no further mention, until Slade arranges for Lukas and Ryan to meet and clear the air
-On the drive to the bar to meet Ryan, Lukas mentions (chapter is in his POV) that he’s been going to therapy after all
-Lukas tells Ryan the truth
-Ryan says it’s not Lukas’ fault and apologises for blaming him, even though Lucas deliberately let him believe he seduced and stole his girlfriend for years. They agree to try and be friendly.
-Lukas flirts with Ryan for a little bit, Ryan is flustered and embarrassed by it
-Chapter ends, the SA is never mentioned again, nor is Lukas’ therapy ever mentioned again.
A huge YIKE for how the author handled this because like… such a huge, life altering experience shouldn’t be reduced to a few lines of conversation then one brief mention of therapy half the book later to then never be mentioned again isn’t how something as serious as Sexual Assault should be treated in fictional writing. If you’re going to make SA a plot point in your book, brushing it off like it’s no big deal isn’t the way to do it.
6. The second weird MM scene. So to set the scene this time, all 5 of our main characters have had dinner together and after a conversation about their individual relationships with Emma, they’ve agreed to form a Polycule. Ryan is yet to have penetrative sex with Emma because he’s scared of hurting her with his scary huge penis™️ (I refer you back to point number 4). He decides he wants to see the dynamic between Emma and the other three to decide if he’s comfortable joining in future. We get a scene where Emma takes Slade in her mouth, Alex in the front and Lukas in the back. After being DP’d while sucking a dick, Emma decides she wants Ryan and he agrees. Unfortunately his big intimidating penis™️ is too big for Emma - she takes about 3 inches then nopes out. Lukas straight up goes up to Ryan and says “I can take it, fuck me” out of nowhere. Ryan and his monstrous appendage™️ are unsure, because Ryan is straight and has past beef with Lukas and also has a massive frightening dick™️. He looks to Emma, who is now standing with Alex and Slade watching this exchange, and Emma says “do it, it’s so hot” and starts masturbating (yucky already, fetishising gay men again). Ryan gives in and agrees (again yucky and peer pressure-y, kinda feels like he was coerced into consenting). He then lubes up Lukas’ ass and immediately puts his dick in it… NO PREP!! He’s supposed to have this freaky monster cock™️ and he just shoves it straight into Lukas’ unprepped asshole in one shot, and Lukas is just like “cool gimme a sec to adjust… ok good to go, fuck me HARD”??? I think the fuck not. Meanwhile, Slade and Alex are just standing there watching and Emma is having a grand ol’ time masturbating while watching them and going on about how hot it is. Why are we focusing on the female’s pleasure during a MM scene? Also, why does it feel like Ryan is only doing this because Emma finds it hot? Also also, why are we writing about two men having sex but catering it to the female gaze, again fetishising queer relationships and queer sex? If your story is meant to have queer representation, can we PLEASE actually build the relationship, not make it seem coerced, not have it come out of ABSOLUTE NOWHERE and actually have the characters be attracted to one another or at least have a discussion BEFORE they have sex? Especially when one of those characters identify as straight then basically agrees to have same-sex intercourse because a bi dude propositions him in front of 2 other guys and his girlfriend after his girlfriend had to stop during sex. Maybe a little bit of questioning his sexuality or AT LEAST curiosity BEFORE an experience like that? Maybe DON’T have the girlfriend fetishise it and tell him to do it because *she* thinks it’s hot and wants to watch and masturbate to it? Idk just a suggestion. The entire situation felt really icky and sleazy, I was wildly uncomfortable reading it, and it got a BIG YIKE from me.
7. The fact the author literally writes Ryan going from “I’m straight and have a big scary dick™️” to “I’m in love with my girlfriend AND one of her other boyfriends who I hated until maybe a week or two ago then fucked one time because my girlfriend thought it was hot”, and this progression was done within 2% of the book (yes, you read that right, TWO PERCENT). During that 2% we get ZERO Ryan and Lukas content, we just make that leap and are expected to accept it, despite the previous 70% of the book where they hate each other. Yikes.
8. I’m going to award Ryan’s huge intimidating dick™️ an extra yike because, seriously, I had to read about it SO MANY TIMES and it was randomly brought up from time to time for no reason, so it feels fitting that I do the same in my review. Ryan has a frightening large penis™️, in case you didn’t know. Oh, and did I mention that Ryan has a monstrous appendage™️? Yeah in case you didn’t know and it wasn’t mentioned, Ryan’s got a scary substantial schlong™️. YIKE.
So… yeah, that’s that. I can’t recommend this book because I genuinely felt like my sanity was slipping away from me while reading this. I originally planned to take one for the team and read the second book in this series (yes, I’m serious, there’s a book 2. I wish I was kidding) but luckily for me and my brain cells, book 2 is an interlinked standalone and NOT a continuation of the relationship in this book so I don’t have to read it, therefore I won’t. My brain matter has taken enough of a beating from this book, and I’ve decided to skip the next book for my own peace. The moral of my review here is this: if you want to write a queer poly romance, that’s great…BUT don’t be lazy about it. Capture the struggles, the difficult conversations, the emotional impact. And for the love of god, PLEASE don’t fetishise the queer relationships or include it because it’s ‘hot’.
Trigger and Content Warnings
Mention of historic sexual assault (male assaulted by woman. Off page, discussed in limited detail)
Fetishisation of homosexual relationships (specifically gay/bi men)
Uncomfortable sexual situations between characters
Death of parents (historic, discussed in limited detail)
**Please check trigger warnings before reading. Look after yourself, your mental health is important. You are loved and you matter**
June 7, 2024
I've had some time to really think about this book, because now, it lives rent free in my head.
Ultimately, I feel like this was such lazy queer writing. If you want to write one person in a poly relationship as being bisexual, fine. If you want to write a couple others as being bi-curious, GREAT. but show their struggles, internally. Slade all the sudden sucks Lukas off, then it never happens again. No real conversation ever happens afterwards. Then RYAN. omg. 🫠 Ryan explicitly told Lukas he was a one woman man. Then it felt icky to me when Lukas told him to bang him after Ryan couldn't fit with emma... With no preamble. No nothing. No conversation, just a hunch that he might wanna do it. WHAT WAS WORSE, was him just doing it. No conversation was had before OR AFTER. Just all the sudden, they're an item. Lukas can take his big schlong, so he's all in--but they talk about how communication is key. BUT NO COMMUNICATION WAS DONE. At least not on the page.
Ugh. No character development. Felt like a pucking around knockoff. No relationship development which is ultimately why I disliked it so much.
You can't just kiss someone and then decide you want to be in a relationship with them, and your best pal.
There was a lot wrong with this book. Idk. It was a hard no for me.
I would like to forget this book, it really made me angry. Don't write about queer poly relationships if you don't want to do the work in building all of the characters and the relationships.
Ultimately, I feel like this was such lazy queer writing. If you want to write one person in a poly relationship as being bisexual, fine. If you want to write a couple others as being bi-curious, GREAT. but show their struggles, internally. Slade all the sudden sucks Lukas off, then it never happens again. No real conversation ever happens afterwards. Then RYAN. omg. 🫠 Ryan explicitly told Lukas he was a one woman man. Then it felt icky to me when Lukas told him to bang him after Ryan couldn't fit with emma... With no preamble. No nothing. No conversation, just a hunch that he might wanna do it. WHAT WAS WORSE, was him just doing it. No conversation was had before OR AFTER. Just all the sudden, they're an item. Lukas can take his big schlong, so he's all in--but they talk about how communication is key. BUT NO COMMUNICATION WAS DONE. At least not on the page.
Ugh. No character development. Felt like a pucking around knockoff. No relationship development which is ultimately why I disliked it so much.
You can't just kiss someone and then decide you want to be in a relationship with them, and your best pal.
There was a lot wrong with this book. Idk. It was a hard no for me.
I would like to forget this book, it really made me angry. Don't write about queer poly relationships if you don't want to do the work in building all of the characters and the relationships.
August 29, 2024
What the actual eff happened? No, seriously… how are there so many high reviews? This was like the wish version of Emily Rath’s book Pucking Around (which, by the way, SO GOOD). It took all of my effort to continue reading and not throw it on my DNF list. Truthfully, I skipped A LOT and skimmed the last half. I don’t even know where to start with the negatives, and I have no positives.
1. The ENTIRE BOOK consisted of time jumps with the characters going “oh our relationship is going so well. It’s crazy how we’ve changed.” Or “I think I’m falling in love.” There was NO buildup. Just internal dialogue about how strong their connection was.
2. Wtf even is Lukas. I genuinely am confused. He talked about her as if she was a game, even admitted that she was just another challenge … yet he started falling in love with her one time after sleeping with her 🫠 I’m sorry, can we have some realism? It’s like his personality did a complete switch up in the span of a chapter. And what about his dad???? It was leading up like that was gonna be a big issue, yet the confrontation was SO ANTI CLIMATIC I WANTED TO DIE. And it was never mentioned again. Don’t even get me started on his relationships within the group. That was even less explored than him and Emma.
3. Slade is annoying af and they all walk all over him. He will literally give up EVERYTHING to keep everyone else happy, even if it means him being unhappy. And they’re all just okay with it! WHY was it alluded that he and Lukas would be a thing, yet it wasn’t explored so he didn’t “disrupt the dynamic”???? I’m sorry, last I checked Emma is fcking all yall. I think you’ll be okay.
4. Sweet Ryan. He was so very pressured into this thing is painful. Sure, he began to enjoy it after a bit. But he was very adamant that he doesn’t share. Yet, once again, he only agreed to join so he didn’t lose Emma. If that’s not a recipe for disaster idk what is.
5. Emma 🙄 how I really dislike her. I get this is a why choose, but she borderline strung them along. Especially Ryan. She knew that there was beef between him and Lukas and KNEW they would both be hurt that she was dating both, even though they agreed to an open relationship. Yet she still hid it and somehow managed to get her way when she cried her big crocodile tears. Give me a break. She would’ve puked if she found out they were sleeping with someone else during this open relationship phase.
4. Alex. I don’t have much to say about him other than the last 20% if the book consisted of him trying to convince Emma to grow some balls and take a career change.
Minus all of that, it writing style was just painful. It’s like the author just searched up synonyms for random words and picked one that she thought sounded cool. And then never stopped using it. If they didn’t stop referring to them having sex as a tryst I was gonna scream. It was like the characters just regurgitated the same lines.
I ALMOST FORGOT - why in the world does Allison hate Emma so much??? Just bc of her last name? That’s so fucking lame. There were so many directions that could’ve gone in, yet it was so lack luster that I was just left confused on how she could hate her so much and why.
1. The ENTIRE BOOK consisted of time jumps with the characters going “oh our relationship is going so well. It’s crazy how we’ve changed.” Or “I think I’m falling in love.” There was NO buildup. Just internal dialogue about how strong their connection was.
2. Wtf even is Lukas. I genuinely am confused. He talked about her as if she was a game, even admitted that she was just another challenge … yet he started falling in love with her one time after sleeping with her 🫠 I’m sorry, can we have some realism? It’s like his personality did a complete switch up in the span of a chapter. And what about his dad???? It was leading up like that was gonna be a big issue, yet the confrontation was SO ANTI CLIMATIC I WANTED TO DIE. And it was never mentioned again. Don’t even get me started on his relationships within the group. That was even less explored than him and Emma.
3. Slade is annoying af and they all walk all over him. He will literally give up EVERYTHING to keep everyone else happy, even if it means him being unhappy. And they’re all just okay with it! WHY was it alluded that he and Lukas would be a thing, yet it wasn’t explored so he didn’t “disrupt the dynamic”???? I’m sorry, last I checked Emma is fcking all yall. I think you’ll be okay.
4. Sweet Ryan. He was so very pressured into this thing is painful. Sure, he began to enjoy it after a bit. But he was very adamant that he doesn’t share. Yet, once again, he only agreed to join so he didn’t lose Emma. If that’s not a recipe for disaster idk what is.
5. Emma 🙄 how I really dislike her. I get this is a why choose, but she borderline strung them along. Especially Ryan. She knew that there was beef between him and Lukas and KNEW they would both be hurt that she was dating both, even though they agreed to an open relationship. Yet she still hid it and somehow managed to get her way when she cried her big crocodile tears. Give me a break. She would’ve puked if she found out they were sleeping with someone else during this open relationship phase.
4. Alex. I don’t have much to say about him other than the last 20% if the book consisted of him trying to convince Emma to grow some balls and take a career change.
Minus all of that, it writing style was just painful. It’s like the author just searched up synonyms for random words and picked one that she thought sounded cool. And then never stopped using it. If they didn’t stop referring to them having sex as a tryst I was gonna scream. It was like the characters just regurgitated the same lines.
I ALMOST FORGOT - why in the world does Allison hate Emma so much??? Just bc of her last name? That’s so fucking lame. There were so many directions that could’ve gone in, yet it was so lack luster that I was just left confused on how she could hate her so much and why.
March 10, 2025
The thing about erotica that I think is misunderstood in this trope-centered world of writing today is that the characters still need to be compelling and the relationships believable. This book, however, fails to strike on both of those measures.
My litmus test of a good character depends on one question, could I tell you this character's favorite color? Or make a solid guess at it? None of the characters here reach that standard. Lukas, Alex, Ryan, and Slade are all barebones "hot athletes" with no emotional depth behind the surface or outside of the bathroom, except for maybe Lukas with his daddy issues. Emma is also cardboard and despite being described as "passionate", "stubborn", and "resilient", I see none of that reflected in her actions.
Outside of the bedroom dynamics, the relationship is nonexistent. The author tells us that they love each other, but does nothing to show it. And now that I can be sure my mom has stopped reading this review...
The sex is mid, at best. It reads as a cheap porno. When she can't take Ryan, his internal monologue has him calling himself a "monster". The way I cackled!!!!. And girl...Emma can't take Ryan's massive dick even after being warmed up, but Lukas can take it up the butt with little to no prep, just some lube, and no cleaning beforehand?? Not to mention the only bisexual character being the "manwhore who sleeps around to escape his feelings". I love how trope-focused books try to be SO progressive and end up landing in the same old stereotypes.
All in all, 1/5.
My litmus test of a good character depends on one question, could I tell you this character's favorite color? Or make a solid guess at it? None of the characters here reach that standard. Lukas, Alex, Ryan, and Slade are all barebones "hot athletes" with no emotional depth behind the surface or outside of the bathroom, except for maybe Lukas with his daddy issues. Emma is also cardboard and despite being described as "passionate", "stubborn", and "resilient", I see none of that reflected in her actions.
Outside of the bedroom dynamics, the relationship is nonexistent. The author tells us that they love each other, but does nothing to show it. And now that I can be sure my mom has stopped reading this review...
The sex is mid, at best. It reads as a cheap porno. When she can't take Ryan, his internal monologue has him calling himself a "monster". The way I cackled!!!!. And girl...Emma can't take Ryan's massive dick even after being warmed up, but Lukas can take it up the butt with little to no prep, just some lube, and no cleaning beforehand?? Not to mention the only bisexual character being the "manwhore who sleeps around to escape his feelings". I love how trope-focused books try to be SO progressive and end up landing in the same old stereotypes.
All in all, 1/5.
August 28, 2024
Newly hired as a social media manager for the hockey team her beloved late father coached, Emma is determined to earn her place and not coast on his name. She is very competent at her job, and is working toward improving the public image of some of the more challenging but talented players. In short order, however, she’s snagged the attention of a few of her subjects and their skills coach.
Will their entanglements overshadow the team’s focus? Or will it end in disaster?
This was a very steamy, fast burn RH with simmering tension between Ryan and bi hunk Lukas, while Ryan’s BF Slade is the peacemaker. Each of the men have their own peccadilloes and are only too willing to share. Emma is central but no one member of their quintage is dominant, except perhaps mature former player Alex who has been Emma’s forever crush since she was an adolescent with his posters on her wall.
Suspend disbelief, sit back, and enjoy this very hot four and a half stars rounded up to five ride.
I was furnished an advance reader copy from the author and booksirens, and I’m pleased to share my honest review.
Will their entanglements overshadow the team’s focus? Or will it end in disaster?
This was a very steamy, fast burn RH with simmering tension between Ryan and bi hunk Lukas, while Ryan’s BF Slade is the peacemaker. Each of the men have their own peccadilloes and are only too willing to share. Emma is central but no one member of their quintage is dominant, except perhaps mature former player Alex who has been Emma’s forever crush since she was an adolescent with his posters on her wall.
Suspend disbelief, sit back, and enjoy this very hot four and a half stars rounded up to five ride.
I was furnished an advance reader copy from the author and booksirens, and I’m pleased to share my honest review.
June 1, 2024
This is the first book I've read by Alexis Barlowe and It was amazing! If you are a fan of hockey romance and why choose I highly recommend reading this. I enjoyed getting to read multiple pov's from Emma and her men. If I had to pick a favorite I would have to pick Alex. I am looking forward to reading more books by Alexis Barlowe in the future!
Tropes:
Why choose
Hockey
Workplace romance
Found family
Multi pov's
Tropes:
Why choose
Hockey
Workplace romance
Found family
Multi pov's
June 4, 2024
necesitamos como sociedad que los autores dejen de usar 'semilla' para referirse al semen
December 30, 2024
Genre: Adult Contemporary (hockey)
Spice: 2.5/5
*spice ratings are relative to similar books in the same genre*
Tropes & themes: MMFMM, polyamorous relationship, workplace romance, secret / forbidden romance, enemies to lovers, fast burn, MMC with a monster cock, DP, reformed rake, and more
Thoughts:
Gosh, this book was just so surface level. There was never any really deep relationship development, so all of the love declarations seemed so fake. I love the premise, but the execution really needed some help.
I’m not sure what the deal is, but there was SO MUCH oral. It felt like the majority of the smut was the FMC “servicing” the MMCs. Like, I’m pretty sure this author is obsessed with blow jobs, which is fine, but this book was overwhelmingly blow jobs?
In addition, the FMC was a bit of a “magical fuck toy” in the sense that she is as down for everything, wanted everything, was the perfect man’s woman, etc. She lacked real depth despite her having a backstory that could have offered her some needed emotional development.
Lastly, I’m not entirely sure that the MM was executed in a way that felt authentic. I worry it borders on fetishization. The queerness was written so lazy and without much care for either sexual queerness or polyamory, imo.
Two stars is maybe a little generous but whatever.
Spice: 2.5/5
*spice ratings are relative to similar books in the same genre*
Tropes & themes: MMFMM, polyamorous relationship, workplace romance, secret / forbidden romance, enemies to lovers, fast burn, MMC with a monster cock, DP, reformed rake, and more
Thoughts:
Gosh, this book was just so surface level. There was never any really deep relationship development, so all of the love declarations seemed so fake. I love the premise, but the execution really needed some help.
I’m not sure what the deal is, but there was SO MUCH oral. It felt like the majority of the smut was the FMC “servicing” the MMCs. Like, I’m pretty sure this author is obsessed with blow jobs, which is fine, but this book was overwhelmingly blow jobs?
In addition, the FMC was a bit of a “magical fuck toy” in the sense that she is as down for everything, wanted everything, was the perfect man’s woman, etc. She lacked real depth despite her having a backstory that could have offered her some needed emotional development.
Lastly, I’m not entirely sure that the MM was executed in a way that felt authentic. I worry it borders on fetishization. The queerness was written so lazy and without much care for either sexual queerness or polyamory, imo.
Two stars is maybe a little generous but whatever.
September 7, 2024
This was a first read from this author for me and I’ll definitely be checking out some of her other books in the future. This book was full of spice with a little plot thrown in. This was more of a poly than a why choose and I did enjoy the book. If you’re going in expecting a lot of plot then maybe this book isn’t for you. If you like a little plot with your smut, then you’ll love this. Insta-lust, one bed, hockey, enemies to friends (between the guys). This was a quick read for me. Emma is the new social media manager for the guys and she soon finds herself in a relationship with 5 guys. Super spicy!! 🥵 Scenes between all of them and some MM scenes included.
May 16, 2024
This is the first book I have read by Alexis Barlowe. Not one, not two….you gotta read the book to find out yourself. EMMA YOU LUCKY DUCK. Omg the opening sentence GOT ME. A team of hockey players? Um yes please. If I could take my pick out of the team, I absolutely love Ryan but I WANT THEM ALL. If you love dark romance, hockey, one bed, many love interests, then you should read this.
Thankyou for the ARC I received! I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Thankyou for the ARC I received! I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 2, 2025
1,5⭐️
This was really one of those stories that's more smut than plot. For every chapter of plot, there were about 4 chapters about the same s*x scene.
Also, the plot that was there, wasn't very good. I appreciated the guys' backstory, but Emma's problem seemed to be just drama for drama's sake.
This was really one of those stories that's more smut than plot. For every chapter of plot, there were about 4 chapters about the same s*x scene.
Also, the plot that was there, wasn't very good. I appreciated the guys' backstory, but Emma's problem seemed to be just drama for drama's sake.
September 30, 2025
Pucking around knock off. Rushed relationships no development or depth. Meh.
May 19, 2024
THIS BOOK...!!! THIS BOOK WAS HOTTTTT omg was it good. I loved all of the characters except for the demon spawn who will remain nameless. This book had me BLUSHING! it was sooo good.
September 13, 2024
⭐3/5 stars
🌶️ 5/5 spice
Pucking the Team by Alexis Barlowe, follows Emma Collins (FMC), who is trying to build a name for herself in the male-dominated industry of professional hockey while keeping her past hidden. She meets Lukas, the resident playboy teammate, and Slade, the team captain early on and feel an instant connection. She soon meets their roommate and film coach, Alex, who is a longtime crush of the past. Finally, she meets the new guy and Lukas’s nemesis, Ryan. Sparks fly between the five but can Emma balance the attention of four hockey players? What happens when someone tries to get in the way and ruin her chances at succeeding in the industry?
I thought this book was okay. I didn’t love it but didn’t necessarily dislike it either. The multiple POVs elevated this book, especially since there are five different characters being followed. We were able to get a good idea of thoughts and emotions by having the POV chapters switch. I did feel like it would drag on a bit. Some of it felt a bit repetitive and the “conflicts” did not have a usual punch. I felt like there were too many “big” things that came and went, without much mention again. This made it feel a bit incohesive. I know Emma was hurt about the whole “nepo baby” thing, but I thought it was a bit hilarious.
This book is very insta-love, with characters falling fast and hard. The steam of this book was off the charts! If you like spice, this is a read for you. Not too long at a little over 300 pages, you still get some depth in characters (since there are five).
Thank you Book Sirens for the eARC of Pucking the Team by Alexis Barlow in exchange for an honest review.
🌶️ 5/5 spice
Pucking the Team by Alexis Barlowe, follows Emma Collins (FMC), who is trying to build a name for herself in the male-dominated industry of professional hockey while keeping her past hidden. She meets Lukas, the resident playboy teammate, and Slade, the team captain early on and feel an instant connection. She soon meets their roommate and film coach, Alex, who is a longtime crush of the past. Finally, she meets the new guy and Lukas’s nemesis, Ryan. Sparks fly between the five but can Emma balance the attention of four hockey players? What happens when someone tries to get in the way and ruin her chances at succeeding in the industry?
I thought this book was okay. I didn’t love it but didn’t necessarily dislike it either. The multiple POVs elevated this book, especially since there are five different characters being followed. We were able to get a good idea of thoughts and emotions by having the POV chapters switch. I did feel like it would drag on a bit. Some of it felt a bit repetitive and the “conflicts” did not have a usual punch. I felt like there were too many “big” things that came and went, without much mention again. This made it feel a bit incohesive. I know Emma was hurt about the whole “nepo baby” thing, but I thought it was a bit hilarious.
This book is very insta-love, with characters falling fast and hard. The steam of this book was off the charts! If you like spice, this is a read for you. Not too long at a little over 300 pages, you still get some depth in characters (since there are five).
Thank you Book Sirens for the eARC of Pucking the Team by Alexis Barlow in exchange for an honest review.
May 9, 2024
ARC review.
I received this ARC for free for a honest review . This is my ARC review of Pucking the Team by Alexis Barlowe.
BEWARE. I READ THIS BOOK IN ONE SITTING. !!
When the scene starts out with “What do you wear when you’re trying to impress a team of hot hockey players without accidentally seducing them? Asking for a friend.” Already hooked me on this book. This sentence alone really shows me the insights of Emma’s character. This book is a (why choose), it was mainly the reason I picked to ARC read this book. I've read many (why choose’s) books, but this one was very different. It was interesting to watch the connections throughout the boys with all the boys with Emma.
“Do you always fall for guys this quickly?” My thought process for this quote was, if they look like you. Yes, sir, yes. Honestly I couldn’t blame Emma for falling this hard, the man was drop-dead fucking hot. The author did an amazing job describing what all of the boys looked like. I could picture a guy in mind for all of them. I won’t say who for me, allowing you to fill them with your own dreamy boy appearance!
Nothing gets me more nervous when I read this “What’s the worst that could happen?” Emma is working with these boys she meets, Lukas, Ryan, Slade, and Alex. And the fact that Emma is already drooling over these boys (can’t blame her), already tells me shit can get way worse for her.
Early in the book I started to really love Emma’s character, she was highly relatable with wanting all of these boys. I have many book boyfriends so I can’t say I can judge her too much. Mostly when she thinks stuff like this. “Yes, Slade, I would love to see a lot of you–all of you, in fact.” Because same girl, fucking same.
What I really love about this book is the DUAL POV of all the characters. We have Emma, Alex, Lukas, Ryan, and Slade POV’s throughout the books. This was a great way of using the POV’s to show us the readers all their different personalities. Ryan is more on the sweet side, and wants to connection, while Alex and Lukas are on the urge of giving in, and being like “Fuck it” attitude. Slade seems to be the most reasonable than them all, but still struggling with the same temptations of wanting Emma.
In Chapter 4, we finally get the boys POV, it starts with Lukas and the first thing I read is “Damn, she's even hotter in the light of day.” Lukas meets Emma at the bar before officially meeting her at the new job she got with the team as a marketing for the team. I legit had to blink, because I love it when men think dirty as fuck.
We get a little insight on Lukas father, who I thought in second that he was a mega fucking dick, I hate father’s who are overbearing and pushy with shit onto their children.
“Seriously, how many hot people does a team need to employ?” Seriously, I’ve been asking this myself for years of reading hockey romances. They don’t need to keep employing hot men. Emma, so far in the books, has the want of having all of these boys at the moment, again I can’t honestly blame her. She blushes like crazy with these boys' words, which I love, and it’s one of my favorite things in books.
“I do not want to bang the whole team. Just, like, maybe three of them.” Why is she holding herself back? Just do it. No judgment. I personally want all of them to fuck each other in many different ways. I was rooting for her to live her dreams to be filled by these men.
Past the beginning of the book the fucking irony of the guys fighting over this damn girl. They are legit calling dibs and whatnot. Just fucking share her. I don’t think she wouldn’t mind one bit.
Okay, this is important to note that Lukas is very much a dickhead. We find out something that happened between him and Ryan. (No spoilers! sorry). I’m only 17% in the book at this point, not even halfway. But Ryan has easily become one of my favorites in the book. But with 17% in I’m sure fire will hit as I read more of this book.
Ight, things about to be hella messy now. At 41% Emma is beginning to really fucking annoy me. Shit happened, like I said it would. But god, her and Ryan was fucked up, she had many times to tell Ryan any of the shit that has been going on, but chooses not too? Because she didn’t want to hurt her feelings. Bullshit. It’s always been hard for me to behind the FMC in why chooses, because they make stupid mistakes, yes Emma, I’m talking about you. I think it was important for Emma to just be honest.
Of course Ryan doesn’t want to share, the boy has stated he was in a relationship before. But this only 41% in the book, boy gonna end up sharing like he has a fucking choice? Because Emma wants to play the field of hockey players.
Little note about the author's writing style. I love the writing, it’s very well written and I loved everything, the inner thoughts, but one was off putting when it came to Ryan POV when he said his “Manhood” just write cock or dick, really, this book is full of dirty words, no need to use those kind of terms. It was just cringe. Other than that one little word, the author writes beyond well and I enjoyed myself reading it because of no grammar mistakes and everything made perfect sense with her writing each character differently.
HOLY FUCKING SHIT.
Oh, God, Ryan you poor poor fucking child. I don’t like sharing, Emma you want Lukas and Alex, I’ll take Ryan. Give him to me now!
“God, I want him so fucking badly.” Emma, sweetie, you want everyone. Legit every guy I have met you want!
FUCK. FUCK. That scene with Lukas and Slade. (No spoilers! sorry).
*SCREAMS* DAMNNN!!! Fucking Lukas and Ryan (No spoilers! sorry)
I finished this book. Holy shit. The amount of times I laughed and cried, and got so fucking mad at the characters was damn. I will be reading the next book in this series for real. This may be the best why choose I’ve read, even though most of them have been dark, this touches on so many related topics and I feel for all the characters, but I fall in love with Ryan with his big dick.
I received this ARC for free for a honest review . This is my ARC review of Pucking the Team by Alexis Barlowe.
BEWARE. I READ THIS BOOK IN ONE SITTING. !!
When the scene starts out with “What do you wear when you’re trying to impress a team of hot hockey players without accidentally seducing them? Asking for a friend.” Already hooked me on this book. This sentence alone really shows me the insights of Emma’s character. This book is a (why choose), it was mainly the reason I picked to ARC read this book. I've read many (why choose’s) books, but this one was very different. It was interesting to watch the connections throughout the boys with all the boys with Emma.
“Do you always fall for guys this quickly?” My thought process for this quote was, if they look like you. Yes, sir, yes. Honestly I couldn’t blame Emma for falling this hard, the man was drop-dead fucking hot. The author did an amazing job describing what all of the boys looked like. I could picture a guy in mind for all of them. I won’t say who for me, allowing you to fill them with your own dreamy boy appearance!
Nothing gets me more nervous when I read this “What’s the worst that could happen?” Emma is working with these boys she meets, Lukas, Ryan, Slade, and Alex. And the fact that Emma is already drooling over these boys (can’t blame her), already tells me shit can get way worse for her.
Early in the book I started to really love Emma’s character, she was highly relatable with wanting all of these boys. I have many book boyfriends so I can’t say I can judge her too much. Mostly when she thinks stuff like this. “Yes, Slade, I would love to see a lot of you–all of you, in fact.” Because same girl, fucking same.
What I really love about this book is the DUAL POV of all the characters. We have Emma, Alex, Lukas, Ryan, and Slade POV’s throughout the books. This was a great way of using the POV’s to show us the readers all their different personalities. Ryan is more on the sweet side, and wants to connection, while Alex and Lukas are on the urge of giving in, and being like “Fuck it” attitude. Slade seems to be the most reasonable than them all, but still struggling with the same temptations of wanting Emma.
In Chapter 4, we finally get the boys POV, it starts with Lukas and the first thing I read is “Damn, she's even hotter in the light of day.” Lukas meets Emma at the bar before officially meeting her at the new job she got with the team as a marketing for the team. I legit had to blink, because I love it when men think dirty as fuck.
We get a little insight on Lukas father, who I thought in second that he was a mega fucking dick, I hate father’s who are overbearing and pushy with shit onto their children.
“Seriously, how many hot people does a team need to employ?” Seriously, I’ve been asking this myself for years of reading hockey romances. They don’t need to keep employing hot men. Emma, so far in the books, has the want of having all of these boys at the moment, again I can’t honestly blame her. She blushes like crazy with these boys' words, which I love, and it’s one of my favorite things in books.
“I do not want to bang the whole team. Just, like, maybe three of them.” Why is she holding herself back? Just do it. No judgment. I personally want all of them to fuck each other in many different ways. I was rooting for her to live her dreams to be filled by these men.
Past the beginning of the book the fucking irony of the guys fighting over this damn girl. They are legit calling dibs and whatnot. Just fucking share her. I don’t think she wouldn’t mind one bit.
Okay, this is important to note that Lukas is very much a dickhead. We find out something that happened between him and Ryan. (No spoilers! sorry). I’m only 17% in the book at this point, not even halfway. But Ryan has easily become one of my favorites in the book. But with 17% in I’m sure fire will hit as I read more of this book.
Ight, things about to be hella messy now. At 41% Emma is beginning to really fucking annoy me. Shit happened, like I said it would. But god, her and Ryan was fucked up, she had many times to tell Ryan any of the shit that has been going on, but chooses not too? Because she didn’t want to hurt her feelings. Bullshit. It’s always been hard for me to behind the FMC in why chooses, because they make stupid mistakes, yes Emma, I’m talking about you. I think it was important for Emma to just be honest.
Of course Ryan doesn’t want to share, the boy has stated he was in a relationship before. But this only 41% in the book, boy gonna end up sharing like he has a fucking choice? Because Emma wants to play the field of hockey players.
Little note about the author's writing style. I love the writing, it’s very well written and I loved everything, the inner thoughts, but one was off putting when it came to Ryan POV when he said his “Manhood” just write cock or dick, really, this book is full of dirty words, no need to use those kind of terms. It was just cringe. Other than that one little word, the author writes beyond well and I enjoyed myself reading it because of no grammar mistakes and everything made perfect sense with her writing each character differently.
HOLY FUCKING SHIT.
Oh, God, Ryan you poor poor fucking child. I don’t like sharing, Emma you want Lukas and Alex, I’ll take Ryan. Give him to me now!
“God, I want him so fucking badly.” Emma, sweetie, you want everyone. Legit every guy I have met you want!
FUCK. FUCK. That scene with Lukas and Slade. (No spoilers! sorry).
*SCREAMS* DAMNNN!!! Fucking Lukas and Ryan (No spoilers! sorry)
I finished this book. Holy shit. The amount of times I laughed and cried, and got so fucking mad at the characters was damn. I will be reading the next book in this series for real. This may be the best why choose I’ve read, even though most of them have been dark, this touches on so many related topics and I feel for all the characters, but I fall in love with Ryan with his big dick.
January 4, 2025
Was the plot in the room with us?
This is a book that should not have been published because it was majorly underdeveloped. This book relies heavily on telling us instead of showing us. If you're looking for great writing, complex characters, and a consistent plot, then look elsewhere. This book lacks chemistry between he characters, character development, or any sort of conflict.
The only reason it's getting 2 stars and not 1 is because the skeleton is there. We have the characters and we have a loose plot. I enjoyed the concept. I enjoyed some of the scenes with the characters but the further this book got the harder it was to read.
Throughout this book there are several time skips. Seriously all of the characters are just thrown together. We don't see any dates except one. Most of the book is internal dialogue telling us stuff has happened with lots of time skips. Often the characters are telling us things like "we had a date a few weeks ago that has strengthened our bond". I found myself screaming at this book on several occasions.
I don't want to hear that they had a date a few weeks ago that took their relationship to a new level. I WANT TO SEE IT. As a reader I want to be right there on the date with them. I should not be yelling at my book, "Excuse me! Reader right here!"
I also had a hard time enjoying the FMC. There just wasn't a lot to her and I'm not sure why she has one let alone four men falling for her. Her whole character is about how her dad was a big time hockey coach and she grew up around the sport and loves it and wants to make her own name for herself. YET her current job is constantly discredited (saying she could do better than a social media position and she could to higher) and then her boyfriends are the ones that step up and have to get a new job for her.
Additionally the Emma is constantly doubting herself while showing no redeemable qualities. The only thing this character does is open her legs and sleep with whoever she wants, whenever she wants, consequences be damned. And that's fine. Circling back to the job thing all she wants is to have a job in the hockey world but then she is sleeping with players left and right? Maybe if there was a slow progression or build up it'd make more sense. However, Emma is thrown into this relationship with all of the men and she does it herself.
Additionally, The whole time I was reading this book I was wondering how she had one, let alone four NHL players pining for her. These are supposed to be incredibly attractive and famous hockey players. They are supposed to be a big deal. Men who have women lining up for them. Yet they all agree to share one girl? Why? What makes her so interesting? I kept waiting and waiting and waiting for the answer but there was nothing. One thing happens during the book and she gets majorly upset and starts crying and locking herself up in her room and doesn't talk to anyone. And I'm like GURL. You have four men who love you and would do anything for you. Sit down. Some of us have some real problems.
There was also one moment during the book where something happens and Emma stops talking to her men and locks herself away like a teenage girl. I found myself really annoyed with this character. I won't spoil the event but in the grand scheme of things it was very minor. I found myself telling Emma "GURL. You have not one but four incredibly sexy NHL players all obsessing over you and you're mad about something that happened to work? Grow up. Some of us have real problems."
Similarly, there wasn't a lot happening for the men. Two of the men had conflict for years and it was so easily dismissed. All Emma had to do was say "just talk to him and tell him the truth." And then he did and boom suddenly they were friends. I could keep going but I think my points been made.
There are better hockey romance books. I highly recommend you don't waste your time reading this one and go find another one.
This is a book that should not have been published because it was majorly underdeveloped. This book relies heavily on telling us instead of showing us. If you're looking for great writing, complex characters, and a consistent plot, then look elsewhere. This book lacks chemistry between he characters, character development, or any sort of conflict.
The only reason it's getting 2 stars and not 1 is because the skeleton is there. We have the characters and we have a loose plot. I enjoyed the concept. I enjoyed some of the scenes with the characters but the further this book got the harder it was to read.
Throughout this book there are several time skips. Seriously all of the characters are just thrown together. We don't see any dates except one. Most of the book is internal dialogue telling us stuff has happened with lots of time skips. Often the characters are telling us things like "we had a date a few weeks ago that has strengthened our bond". I found myself screaming at this book on several occasions.
I don't want to hear that they had a date a few weeks ago that took their relationship to a new level. I WANT TO SEE IT. As a reader I want to be right there on the date with them. I should not be yelling at my book, "Excuse me! Reader right here!"
I also had a hard time enjoying the FMC. There just wasn't a lot to her and I'm not sure why she has one let alone four men falling for her. Her whole character is about how her dad was a big time hockey coach and she grew up around the sport and loves it and wants to make her own name for herself. YET her current job is constantly discredited (saying she could do better than a social media position and she could to higher) and then her boyfriends are the ones that step up and have to get a new job for her.
Additionally the Emma is constantly doubting herself while showing no redeemable qualities. The only thing this character does is open her legs and sleep with whoever she wants, whenever she wants, consequences be damned. And that's fine. Circling back to the job thing all she wants is to have a job in the hockey world but then she is sleeping with players left and right? Maybe if there was a slow progression or build up it'd make more sense. However, Emma is thrown into this relationship with all of the men and she does it herself.
Additionally, The whole time I was reading this book I was wondering how she had one, let alone four NHL players pining for her. These are supposed to be incredibly attractive and famous hockey players. They are supposed to be a big deal. Men who have women lining up for them. Yet they all agree to share one girl? Why? What makes her so interesting? I kept waiting and waiting and waiting for the answer but there was nothing. One thing happens during the book and she gets majorly upset and starts crying and locking herself up in her room and doesn't talk to anyone. And I'm like GURL. You have four men who love you and would do anything for you. Sit down. Some of us have some real problems.
There was also one moment during the book where something happens and Emma stops talking to her men and locks herself away like a teenage girl. I found myself really annoyed with this character. I won't spoil the event but in the grand scheme of things it was very minor. I found myself telling Emma "GURL. You have not one but four incredibly sexy NHL players all obsessing over you and you're mad about something that happened to work? Grow up. Some of us have real problems."
Similarly, there wasn't a lot happening for the men. Two of the men had conflict for years and it was so easily dismissed. All Emma had to do was say "just talk to him and tell him the truth." And then he did and boom suddenly they were friends. I could keep going but I think my points been made.
There are better hockey romance books. I highly recommend you don't waste your time reading this one and go find another one.
June 27, 2025
Pucking the Team by Alexis Barlowe
⭐️⭐️ (2/5)
This book follows Emma Collins, a determined FMC trying to carve a name for herself in the male-dominated world of professional hockey. While she’s dodging her past and working hard to prove herself, she meets not one but four swoony hockey players — each with their own vibe and a claim on her attention.
From the playboy teammate Lukas to team captain Slade, a long-time crush named Alex, and a new face Ryan — sparks are flying in every direction. The premise? Fun, chaotic, and full of potential. But unfortunately, the execution didn’t quite deliver.
Here’s my honest take:
✨ What worked:
The concept was solid: a woman in a high-stakes hockey world juggling four dynamic guys and a hidden past? Yes please.
The multiple POVs helped flesh out the emotional range and gave us a glimpse into each character’s head.
If you love insta-love and off-the-charts spice, this book absolutely delivers in the steam department.
😬 What didn’t work:
The pacing dragged at times. Some scenes felt repetitive or lacking punch.
There were several major events and conflicts that were barely addressed or just dropped altogether, making the plot feel scattered.
The romantic development was rushed we're told about bonding and growth, but not shown. Time skips and vague internal dialogue replaced real moments.
There was little chemistry development on-page. As a reader, I want to see the relationships unfold, not be told they had a date a few weeks ago that “changed everything.”
Emma’s reaction to certain events felt overblown, especially considering her situation. It was hard to root for her when her frustrations didn’t match the stakes.
The men’s arcs felt flat, and long-standing rivalries were resolved too quickly to feel earned.
📢 Final Thoughts:
This book had potential, the skeleton of a fun, spicy sports romance is there. But it read like an early draft that needed more development, chemistry, and emotional payoff. If you’re looking for a quick, spicy read with a lot of hockey player drama and don’t mind a looser plot, this might scratch the itch. But if you’re after strong storytelling and slow-burn tension, you may want to skip this one and check out another hockey romance instead.
⭐️⭐️ (2/5)
This book follows Emma Collins, a determined FMC trying to carve a name for herself in the male-dominated world of professional hockey. While she’s dodging her past and working hard to prove herself, she meets not one but four swoony hockey players — each with their own vibe and a claim on her attention.
From the playboy teammate Lukas to team captain Slade, a long-time crush named Alex, and a new face Ryan — sparks are flying in every direction. The premise? Fun, chaotic, and full of potential. But unfortunately, the execution didn’t quite deliver.
Here’s my honest take:
✨ What worked:
The concept was solid: a woman in a high-stakes hockey world juggling four dynamic guys and a hidden past? Yes please.
The multiple POVs helped flesh out the emotional range and gave us a glimpse into each character’s head.
If you love insta-love and off-the-charts spice, this book absolutely delivers in the steam department.
😬 What didn’t work:
The pacing dragged at times. Some scenes felt repetitive or lacking punch.
There were several major events and conflicts that were barely addressed or just dropped altogether, making the plot feel scattered.
The romantic development was rushed we're told about bonding and growth, but not shown. Time skips and vague internal dialogue replaced real moments.
There was little chemistry development on-page. As a reader, I want to see the relationships unfold, not be told they had a date a few weeks ago that “changed everything.”
Emma’s reaction to certain events felt overblown, especially considering her situation. It was hard to root for her when her frustrations didn’t match the stakes.
The men’s arcs felt flat, and long-standing rivalries were resolved too quickly to feel earned.
📢 Final Thoughts:
This book had potential, the skeleton of a fun, spicy sports romance is there. But it read like an early draft that needed more development, chemistry, and emotional payoff. If you’re looking for a quick, spicy read with a lot of hockey player drama and don’t mind a looser plot, this might scratch the itch. But if you’re after strong storytelling and slow-burn tension, you may want to skip this one and check out another hockey romance instead.
June 16, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book follows Emma Collins, a social media manager who lands her dream job with a hockey team, only to discover she's caught in a whirlwind with the team's top players and a coach, all while harboring a secret as the daughter of their late, famed coach.
This book seamlessly merges sports romance, reverse harem, and gay romance, delivering sizzling scenes that hit the mark perfectly. However, while the spicy encounters are a highlight, the plot could benefit from more character background and development. I found myself wishing for deeper insights into the characters and more prominence given to the workplace drama, which felt underexplored.
Despite this, the multiple perspectives add depth, offering varied insights into each character's dynamics. For fans of sports and reverse harem romance, 'Pucking the Team' remains an enjoyable and steamy read, though a bit more emphasis on character backgrounds and workplace dynamics would have shaped the plot even further.
Overall, a fun and easy read for fans of sports and reverse harem romances. Highly recommended!
The book follows Emma Collins, a social media manager who lands her dream job with a hockey team, only to discover she's caught in a whirlwind with the team's top players and a coach, all while harboring a secret as the daughter of their late, famed coach.
This book seamlessly merges sports romance, reverse harem, and gay romance, delivering sizzling scenes that hit the mark perfectly. However, while the spicy encounters are a highlight, the plot could benefit from more character background and development. I found myself wishing for deeper insights into the characters and more prominence given to the workplace drama, which felt underexplored.
Despite this, the multiple perspectives add depth, offering varied insights into each character's dynamics. For fans of sports and reverse harem romance, 'Pucking the Team' remains an enjoyable and steamy read, though a bit more emphasis on character backgrounds and workplace dynamics would have shaped the plot even further.
Overall, a fun and easy read for fans of sports and reverse harem romances. Highly recommended!
October 2, 2025
Honestly, in this case, 4 is too many. Emma seems to have magical qualities that I just don’t get. Every guys she runs into seems to instantly think “she’s special. She’s the one”. Slade, Alex, Lukus & Ryan. Really could have don’t without one.
I like some of the subplots. Ryan and Lukus have history and when they finally talk (after Lukus discusses with Emma and she makes him realise what had really happened to him), everything is instantly better.
Emma is the social media person. She seems really into her job, loving her work. But then Alex suggests a career change and suddenly she’s potentially doing something else. I do think it makes sense, but it is a career change that I didn’t think she needed to do.
Otherwise, sexy times were ok. A lot from the male pov and most of the writing was logistical placement of parts and some typical naughty talk. Nothing really that earth shattering.
It was good to read and I’m tempted to read the next in the series as that’s only 2 guys!
I like some of the subplots. Ryan and Lukus have history and when they finally talk (after Lukus discusses with Emma and she makes him realise what had really happened to him), everything is instantly better.
Emma is the social media person. She seems really into her job, loving her work. But then Alex suggests a career change and suddenly she’s potentially doing something else. I do think it makes sense, but it is a career change that I didn’t think she needed to do.
Otherwise, sexy times were ok. A lot from the male pov and most of the writing was logistical placement of parts and some typical naughty talk. Nothing really that earth shattering.
It was good to read and I’m tempted to read the next in the series as that’s only 2 guys!
May 15, 2024
Pucking the team
by Alexis Barlowe
⭐️4
🌶️4
💧0
Why choose and hockey romance… SOLD!! I devoured this book! It was close to being a 5 star read… “so why wasn’t it” you ask? Truthfully, when the FMC opens her mouth and started to dirty talk. It was literally cringe! It actually ruined the book for me the way she refers to her junk as a “hole”
“Fill my hole” “use my hole” eww pass. If you can overlook the cringe dirty talk it’s actually a decent book.
#puckingtheteam #alexisbarlowe #audiobook #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #darkromance #reading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #booksarelife #spicybooklover
by Alexis Barlowe
⭐️4
🌶️4
💧0
Why choose and hockey romance… SOLD!! I devoured this book! It was close to being a 5 star read… “so why wasn’t it” you ask? Truthfully, when the FMC opens her mouth and started to dirty talk. It was literally cringe! It actually ruined the book for me the way she refers to her junk as a “hole”
“Fill my hole” “use my hole” eww pass. If you can overlook the cringe dirty talk it’s actually a decent book.
#puckingtheteam #alexisbarlowe #audiobook #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #darkromance #reading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #booksarelife #spicybooklover
May 16, 2024
~ Hockey
~ Why Choose
~ Workplace Affair
~ Secret Romance
~ Found Family
This was a great read!
Emma lands a job as the new social media manager for the NHL team, Chicago Blizzards. It has been her dream to work there since her father used to be the Head Coach before he died. She keeps it a secret so no one can accuse her of nepotism.
The characters are well-developed making it easy to connect with them and root for their happiness. The chemistry between Emma, Alex, Slade, Lukas, and Ryan is passionate and electric. I enjoyed seeing their relationship develop throughout the book! The plot is well-paced and it kept me hooked the entire time.
It is a heartwarming story that will leave you cheering for the FMC and swooning over her love interests! It is a must-read for fans of Hockey and Why Choose Romance.
~ Why Choose
~ Workplace Affair
~ Secret Romance
~ Found Family
This was a great read!
Emma lands a job as the new social media manager for the NHL team, Chicago Blizzards. It has been her dream to work there since her father used to be the Head Coach before he died. She keeps it a secret so no one can accuse her of nepotism.
The characters are well-developed making it easy to connect with them and root for their happiness. The chemistry between Emma, Alex, Slade, Lukas, and Ryan is passionate and electric. I enjoyed seeing their relationship develop throughout the book! The plot is well-paced and it kept me hooked the entire time.
It is a heartwarming story that will leave you cheering for the FMC and swooning over her love interests! It is a must-read for fans of Hockey and Why Choose Romance.
May 15, 2024
My god is the spice spicy 🌶🥵 We've got 8 spicy scenes that include 2,3,4 and 5 person scenes all involving our FMC Emma. There's toys, kink, mutual self care, dom/sub vibes and a whole lot more. There is also a couple of MM scenes involving 3 of our MMC's, I'm not going to say who and how but it's 🌶🥵
Emma has a mountain to climb in terms of her career and is determined to make it in the male dominated world of Ice Hockey. She battles her grief over her parents, the rumours of nepotism and her own self doubts to prove herself in this world.
Her four guys - Hockey players Slade, Lukas and Ryan and coach Alex are all perfect scorching hot book boyfriends. I love everything about these men trying to make it work as they form a polycule with Emma
Emma has a mountain to climb in terms of her career and is determined to make it in the male dominated world of Ice Hockey. She battles her grief over her parents, the rumours of nepotism and her own self doubts to prove herself in this world.
Her four guys - Hockey players Slade, Lukas and Ryan and coach Alex are all perfect scorching hot book boyfriends. I love everything about these men trying to make it work as they form a polycule with Emma
May 16, 2024
WOW, this book was insanely good. So, I don’t care about sports whatsoever - but thankfully, that isn’t heavy here. It’s sprinkled in nicely, so I didn’t need to skip anything. The characters are all very well developed, each man being totally their own personality and very easy to keep track of who is who. The book moves quickly to the bedroom, and honestly I’m ok with that! The underlying story is light, a backdrop, with the focus of the book the budding relationship between the FMC and her guys. It’s delicious, it’s sweet, it’s very spicy, and hot damn. Extremely well written scenes. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am really looking forward to the next one coming this year. Can’t wait! I received an ARC and am happily leaving a review.
May 18, 2024
I thought this book was decently well written. I had a connection with more than one of the characters but, at the same time, felt that the characters could have been flushed out a little bit more with personality and mannerisms, especially at the end. That's when we learned some of the characters likes which I think would have gotten better if we had learned them a little earlier. I felt like there were also a couple of loose ends by the time the story had wrapped up and as much as I understand that time was going by, I felt like there wasn't enough development for it to signify a year had passed by the end. Overall, I gave this 3.5 stars, which I rounded up to a 4. I have to admit that I liked the MMCs more than the FMC.
October 4, 2025
Team Players
✔️Why Choose
✔️Hockey Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
🌶🌶🌶🌶
Characters: Blade, Alex, Lukas, Ryan, and Emma
Notes: The book started off super cliche and very insta love but overall a solid reverse harem Hockey Romance. The other books that I've read with the same trope were different in that the relationship between the group didn't just happen suddenly. There were individual connections and back stories that allowed the group to come together. There was some hockey included, especially to highlight the tension leading up to an injury. I would have liked to have seen how the group relationship translated on the ice besides a quick mention of the team making it to the finals. Spicy scenes were good!
✔️Why Choose
✔️Hockey Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
🌶🌶🌶🌶
Characters: Blade, Alex, Lukas, Ryan, and Emma
Notes: The book started off super cliche and very insta love but overall a solid reverse harem Hockey Romance. The other books that I've read with the same trope were different in that the relationship between the group didn't just happen suddenly. There were individual connections and back stories that allowed the group to come together. There was some hockey included, especially to highlight the tension leading up to an injury. I would have liked to have seen how the group relationship translated on the ice besides a quick mention of the team making it to the finals. Spicy scenes were good!
November 3, 2025
DNF
I made it 63% through it and just couldn’t do it anymore. It felt like the book missed the characters building a relationship. The character growth just was. There was no building on it. Then there would be a big build up to them all together at the end of the chapter then it’s a whole new topic at the start of the chapter.
And then 2 of the guys who have shown no interest in the same sex like at all, all of a sudden are seeing things differently? And Emma made this big deal about consent where she’s totally right but then Alex strong armed her into signing paperwork for HR, all because he didn’t want her to not sign. And she was like oh ok I can see where you’re coming from….? Ok I’m done ranting.
I made it 63% through it and just couldn’t do it anymore. It felt like the book missed the characters building a relationship. The character growth just was. There was no building on it. Then there would be a big build up to them all together at the end of the chapter then it’s a whole new topic at the start of the chapter.
And then 2 of the guys who have shown no interest in the same sex like at all, all of a sudden are seeing things differently? And Emma made this big deal about consent where she’s totally right but then Alex strong armed her into signing paperwork for HR, all because he didn’t want her to not sign. And she was like oh ok I can see where you’re coming from….? Ok I’m done ranting.
January 27, 2026
2.5 stars This was basically a Temu version of Pucking Around... two of the names were even the same.. This was very icky and messy. Emma is sleeping with Alex and Lukas, then Ryan comes along. They agree that they can see other people. Emma ends up in the hospital, and all three show up, and Ryan is mad?? No, dude, you said you can see other people. Then Slade enters the scene and gets with Lukas, even though there was no indication that Slade is Bi at all??? Alot of activities happen with no communication about it, it just happens, and everyone is like "yup, this is normal." It just moved so fast with not much backstory on anyone. Then, when Emma's manager outed them.. that was weird and thrown in there. I'd like to forget I read this book.
June 6, 2024
Spicy Why choose hockey romance!?! Yes, Please!
Not only did the author bring the spice but she also created a storyline that was easy to read and gave a nice blend of emotions throughout. I appreciate that the characters all had a personality trait that was unique to them. Which also makes it hard to pick a favorite.
I will say, that I love that Emma was displayed as a strong independent woman who wasn't easy to push around.
I'm not sure if something was missing or if I was just off but it took me a little longer to read this book. But overall, I did enjoy the story.
Honest review for ARC
Not only did the author bring the spice but she also created a storyline that was easy to read and gave a nice blend of emotions throughout. I appreciate that the characters all had a personality trait that was unique to them. Which also makes it hard to pick a favorite.
I will say, that I love that Emma was displayed as a strong independent woman who wasn't easy to push around.
I'm not sure if something was missing or if I was just off but it took me a little longer to read this book. But overall, I did enjoy the story.
Honest review for ARC
June 18, 2024
Pucking the Team by Alexis Barlowe is a why choose hockey romance. Emma Collins has landed her dream job with a professional hockey team. She goes out before she officially starts her job and meets most of the hockey team. She has sparks with more than one player at the bar. She ultimately goes home alone. She then sees them all again the next day. They play a cat and mouse game. Emma starts a causal relationship with a few of the players. There are some complicated dynamics between the players and Emma. Lukas, Slade, Alex, and Ryan have to also worry about their team dynamics as well as their personal feelings.
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