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Denver Bashers Series #2
Dirty Pucker
I’m the most hated player in the NHL. I’m famous for fighting dirty, and it’s earned me a nickname: Dirty Del.
When I get traded to the Denver Bashers, I’m told to clean up my act.
The team’s social media girl, Ingrid, is helping me sweeten my public image. She’s everything I’m not: bubbly and likable with a sunshine smile.
She’s also stunningly beautiful–and totally off limits. Her cousin–my teammate–hates my guts and warned me to stay away from her.
But the more time we spend working together, the more I like Ingrid. When I open up to her about my darkest secret, she makes me feel comforted and supported. And when she tells me about the terrible way her ex treated her, I’m determined to spoil her in every way…in and out of the bedroom.
It’s not long before I start to catch feels.
I need to focus on my career. I don’t need any distractions, especially not a relationship.
But I’m falling hard for this beautiful sunshine girl.
Dirty Pucker is a pro hockey grumpy sunshine romance. It is book 2 in the Denver Bashers series.
Tropes
Grumpy/sunshine
Friends to lovers
Insta-lust
Hockey bad boy
Social media girl
"Good girl"
He falls first and harder
No third act breakup!
When I get traded to the Denver Bashers, I’m told to clean up my act.
The team’s social media girl, Ingrid, is helping me sweeten my public image. She’s everything I’m not: bubbly and likable with a sunshine smile.
She’s also stunningly beautiful–and totally off limits. Her cousin–my teammate–hates my guts and warned me to stay away from her.
But the more time we spend working together, the more I like Ingrid. When I open up to her about my darkest secret, she makes me feel comforted and supported. And when she tells me about the terrible way her ex treated her, I’m determined to spoil her in every way…in and out of the bedroom.
It’s not long before I start to catch feels.
I need to focus on my career. I don’t need any distractions, especially not a relationship.
But I’m falling hard for this beautiful sunshine girl.
Dirty Pucker is a pro hockey grumpy sunshine romance. It is book 2 in the Denver Bashers series.
Tropes
Grumpy/sunshine
Friends to lovers
Insta-lust
Hockey bad boy
Social media girl
"Good girl"
He falls first and harder
No third act breakup!
376 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 17, 2024
278 people are currently reading
853 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Smith
20 books924 followersSarah Smith is a copywriter-turned-author who wants to make the world a lovelier place, one kissing story at a time. Her love of romance began when she was eight and she discovered her auntie's stash of romance novels. She's been hooked ever since. When she's not writing, you can find her hiking, eating chocolate, and perfecting her lumpia recipe. She is also one half of the romance writing duo Sarah Skye. Sarah also writes tearjerker fiction under the name Sarah Echavarre
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 283 reviews
October 29, 2024
him: i'm a hotheaded asshole who beat the shit out of my new teammates, including your cousin when i played against them until recently
her: (minutes into meeting him) you're not an asshole
him: but i am
her: no you're not
him: i believe you, you are so sweet, want to bang?
her: oh yeah i'm desperate
i was bored to death reading this and the writing style did not help either 🫠🫢
her: (minutes into meeting him) you're not an asshole
him: but i am
her: no you're not
him: i believe you, you are so sweet, want to bang?
her: oh yeah i'm desperate
i was bored to death reading this and the writing style did not help either 🫠🫢
October 20, 2024
⭐️4🌶️3💧0
Dirty Del and Ingrid’s story was too freaking cute! There was no 3rd act break up, it was literally a sweet as sin story. The NHL bad boy who is actually a softie and falls hard and fast for the teams social mean girl. It was a fun spicy read.
Note this is book two but can be (and I did!) read as a standalone.
(I do hope Sam gets a story soon though!)
#sarahsmith #dirtypucker #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
Dirty Del and Ingrid’s story was too freaking cute! There was no 3rd act break up, it was literally a sweet as sin story. The NHL bad boy who is actually a softie and falls hard and fast for the teams social mean girl. It was a fun spicy read.
Note this is book two but can be (and I did!) read as a standalone.
(I do hope Sam gets a story soon though!)
#sarahsmith #dirtypucker #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
October 21, 2024
ARC REVIEW
4/5⭐️ 3/5🌶️
DIRTY DEL!!! 😆
I enjoyed this book so much! I was so excited for Del and Ingrid’s story and Sarah did not disappoint. She’s a new Author for me and I’m really loving her writing.
I was NOT a fan of Del in the first book (up until the last 10 percent). Learning his back story and why he is the way he is really made me fall in love with his character so much! He has such a HUGE heart and is fiercely protective of the people he loves. Ingrid is this bubbly go with the flow FMC who brings out the best in Del in so many ways. They had amazing chemistry right away and their banter was so fun!!!
The sauna scene had me giggling the whole time and the spice was *chefs kiss* 🌶️🥵
If you love…
-Workplace Romance (Hockey Player/ Social Media Girl)
-Opposites Attract
-Bad Boy/Good Girl
-Friends To Lovers
-Grumpy/Sunshine
-No Third Act Breakup
-He Falls First
READ THIS BOOK!!!!
Thank you Sarah for the ARC ❤️
4/5⭐️ 3/5🌶️
DIRTY DEL!!! 😆
I enjoyed this book so much! I was so excited for Del and Ingrid’s story and Sarah did not disappoint. She’s a new Author for me and I’m really loving her writing.
I was NOT a fan of Del in the first book (up until the last 10 percent). Learning his back story and why he is the way he is really made me fall in love with his character so much! He has such a HUGE heart and is fiercely protective of the people he loves. Ingrid is this bubbly go with the flow FMC who brings out the best in Del in so many ways. They had amazing chemistry right away and their banter was so fun!!!
The sauna scene had me giggling the whole time and the spice was *chefs kiss* 🌶️🥵
If you love…
-Workplace Romance (Hockey Player/ Social Media Girl)
-Opposites Attract
-Bad Boy/Good Girl
-Friends To Lovers
-Grumpy/Sunshine
-No Third Act Breakup
-He Falls First
READ THIS BOOK!!!!
Thank you Sarah for the ARC ❤️
October 22, 2024
Sarah has done it again! This book follows Ingrid and Del on a journey of friendship, love with some bumps in the road. Del is a new book boyfriend. I mean come on, he buys her favorite snacks every month. I enjoyed the banter but also the more serious plot lines with family history of domestic violence so please take note of that before you read. This book was a great mix of character development with some great spice mixed in. Best part? No third act breakup!!! Highly recommend this book and Fake as Puck. Thank you Sarah for the opportunity to read this ARC! I cannot WAIT until the next Bashers book is here!!
October 28, 2024
— ARC Review : 3 stars ✰
tropes :
💌 friends to lovers
💌 grumpy sunshine
💌 hockey bad boy x social media girl
💌 insta-lust
╰┈➤ This book was better considering I dnf the first book in the series. The chemistry between Ingrid and Del was electric, with their banter and slowburn romance unfolding beautifully. Ingrid saw through Del’s tough exterior, and he let down his walls for her. She understood Del without judgment, helping him grow both in their relationship and with his team. The found family dynamic was a highlight, especially as Del went from an outsider to feeling truly at home in Denver.
Overall, this book was enjoyable! Would still recommend this to everyone.
────୨ৎ────
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Sarah Smith for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
tropes :
💌 friends to lovers
💌 grumpy sunshine
💌 hockey bad boy x social media girl
💌 insta-lust
╰┈➤ This book was better considering I dnf the first book in the series. The chemistry between Ingrid and Del was electric, with their banter and slowburn romance unfolding beautifully. Ingrid saw through Del’s tough exterior, and he let down his walls for her. She understood Del without judgment, helping him grow both in their relationship and with his team. The found family dynamic was a highlight, especially as Del went from an outsider to feeling truly at home in Denver.
Overall, this book was enjoyable! Would still recommend this to everyone.
────୨ৎ────
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Sarah Smith for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
August 17, 2025
Edited August 2025 for audio listen:
I was excited to listen to the audio of the second Bashers book. Honestly, I liked the book more with the audio than when I eyeball read it. Both narrators were good and Dane Anderson has the perfect growly voice to fit with Del's personality. This was my first experience with both of these narrators and I would definitely listen to an audio featuring either of them again.
ARC review for Fake as Puck by Sarah Smith
Thanks to Sarah for the ARC opportunity!
Featured tropes: grumpy/sunshine, friends to lovers, he falls first (and hard), bad boy, instalust
Trigger warning: past parental abuse/alcoholic parent, physical fight (minor) and on-page arrest (also minor)
Review: 3.5/5
I was so excited to return to the Bashers! I loved book one because it was pretty low angst and just a good time which I needed when I read that book. This one had a little more tension which I appreciated but was still overall on the chiller side and definitely still a fun time.
Things I liked:
- I loved the banter. I find that little found family series have just the best dynamics between the characters. They love and support each other in all things, for sure, but they will NOT waste an opportunity to give each other crap and poke fun when the situation warrants it. This definitely fits that bill and it just makes my sarcastic little self smile.
- Del is a bossy boy and I am here for it.
- I said it after Fake as Puck and I'll say it again. Coach Porter is the best.
- It was delightful to return to the Basher's world. I squealed (and made a note in each instance) when we first saw Xander and Sophie again. It just made me happy to return to this little Basher's family.
Things I disliked or missed the mark:
- As in Fake as Puck, I again noted the logistics of Sam's presence with the Basher's fam when he plays for a different NHL team in a different city. It's definitely way better in this book since Del is now in Denver instead of Nashville and I *think* Sam's presence then got explained away a few chapters later but, yeah. Again, not a big issue, just something I noted in the first book that I again saw, albeit much improved, in the second.
- Ingrid was a little boring to me. The blurb talks about the terrible treatment she received from her ex and while, yeah, he was a typical bro-dude, she wasn't overtly mistreated. I guess I was expecting something a little more deep or meaningful other than just this guy who hasn't really grown up yet and didn't realize what he truly had. Just meh.
Overall, I think this is worth a read. Don't expect something that's going to get you into your moody feels. If you like a good sports romance or grumpy/sunshine trope and just want to have a good time, give this a shot. It's a relatively quick read and I don't think you'll have anything to be mad about if you give this book a few hours of your time.
Now, all that being out of the way, please take this moment to celebrate with me that Blomdahl's book is next!!! I've been jonesing for his book since Fake as Puck's chapter 27 game of Truth or Dare. Every time he speaks, I giggle because he's just so delightfully insane as I understand all goalies are, that I cannot wait to spend an entire book with him. Whomever is nailing that boy down must be a force.
I was excited to listen to the audio of the second Bashers book. Honestly, I liked the book more with the audio than when I eyeball read it. Both narrators were good and Dane Anderson has the perfect growly voice to fit with Del's personality. This was my first experience with both of these narrators and I would definitely listen to an audio featuring either of them again.
ARC review for Fake as Puck by Sarah Smith
Thanks to Sarah for the ARC opportunity!
Featured tropes: grumpy/sunshine, friends to lovers, he falls first (and hard), bad boy, instalust
Trigger warning: past parental abuse/alcoholic parent, physical fight (minor) and on-page arrest (also minor)
Review: 3.5/5
I was so excited to return to the Bashers! I loved book one because it was pretty low angst and just a good time which I needed when I read that book. This one had a little more tension which I appreciated but was still overall on the chiller side and definitely still a fun time.
Things I liked:
- I loved the banter. I find that little found family series have just the best dynamics between the characters. They love and support each other in all things, for sure, but they will NOT waste an opportunity to give each other crap and poke fun when the situation warrants it. This definitely fits that bill and it just makes my sarcastic little self smile.
- Del is a bossy boy and I am here for it.
- I said it after Fake as Puck and I'll say it again. Coach Porter is the best.
- It was delightful to return to the Basher's world. I squealed (and made a note in each instance) when we first saw Xander and Sophie again. It just made me happy to return to this little Basher's family.
Things I disliked or missed the mark:
- As in Fake as Puck, I again noted the logistics of Sam's presence with the Basher's fam when he plays for a different NHL team in a different city. It's definitely way better in this book since Del is now in Denver instead of Nashville and I *think* Sam's presence then got explained away a few chapters later but, yeah. Again, not a big issue, just something I noted in the first book that I again saw, albeit much improved, in the second.
- Ingrid was a little boring to me. The blurb talks about the terrible treatment she received from her ex and while, yeah, he was a typical bro-dude, she wasn't overtly mistreated. I guess I was expecting something a little more deep or meaningful other than just this guy who hasn't really grown up yet and didn't realize what he truly had. Just meh.
Overall, I think this is worth a read. Don't expect something that's going to get you into your moody feels. If you like a good sports romance or grumpy/sunshine trope and just want to have a good time, give this a shot. It's a relatively quick read and I don't think you'll have anything to be mad about if you give this book a few hours of your time.
Now, all that being out of the way, please take this moment to celebrate with me that Blomdahl's book is next!!! I've been jonesing for his book since Fake as Puck's chapter 27 game of Truth or Dare. Every time he speaks, I giggle because he's just so delightfully insane as I understand all goalies are, that I cannot wait to spend an entire book with him. Whomever is nailing that boy down must be a force.
November 5, 2024
I’ve been so swamped lately it is so hard to write reviews so just know I am going to do my best so try this one and come back later and make it better.
However, I can easily tell you that I loved this book. I have been in such a slump lately it’s been really hard for me to get through books. That was not the case with this one. I would have read the whole thing in a day if I’d had the time.
It was just so cute. I loved all the characters. I love when they feel like a family and all interact with one another so well. The two MCs were really great. They complimented each other so well. I loved how they each confided in the other and were there to support them. The little social media moments were so adorable. I especially loved the one where everyone could tell that Del had a thing for the girl filming the video just by the way he was looking through the camera.
I also loved that it was pretty low drama. The overprotective cousin was protective of her but also supportive of their relationship once he got to know Del. He didn’t freak and ban her from seeing him or start a whole bunch of drama like I’ve read before which I was glad about because that is exhausting. There was no second act which was appreciated and the drama with Dels dad was handled well. I love when characters handle disagreements maturely and talk things through instead of acting like children and was so glad that this was true for these two main characters.
I definitely loved this book and would recommend it. It’s always nice to have another hockey romance to read and this is a great on for your list!
However, I can easily tell you that I loved this book. I have been in such a slump lately it’s been really hard for me to get through books. That was not the case with this one. I would have read the whole thing in a day if I’d had the time.
It was just so cute. I loved all the characters. I love when they feel like a family and all interact with one another so well. The two MCs were really great. They complimented each other so well. I loved how they each confided in the other and were there to support them. The little social media moments were so adorable. I especially loved the one where everyone could tell that Del had a thing for the girl filming the video just by the way he was looking through the camera.
I also loved that it was pretty low drama. The overprotective cousin was protective of her but also supportive of their relationship once he got to know Del. He didn’t freak and ban her from seeing him or start a whole bunch of drama like I’ve read before which I was glad about because that is exhausting. There was no second act which was appreciated and the drama with Dels dad was handled well. I love when characters handle disagreements maturely and talk things through instead of acting like children and was so glad that this was true for these two main characters.
I definitely loved this book and would recommend it. It’s always nice to have another hockey romance to read and this is a great on for your list!
November 16, 2024
ARC Review
⤷ 5 ⭐️
The most adorable, emotional, and hilarious hockey romance book EVER. I don't think I've ever cried over a hockey romance book before but this one.. oh my. It felt TOO real and too close to my heart, I related to SO much in this beautifully written book.
And please don't get me started on the characters, I'm literally in LOVE with each and every single character. Specially Del, like how can a person endure so much YET remain so soft-hearted? The character development here was insane. (I've SOBBED a lot)
However If I had to describe myself as one of the characters, it would definitely be Ingrid! She's such a sweet soul and I love how she was written in such an adorable manner with the perfect ratio of sunshine and realism that doesn't make her seem like an unrealistic book girl.
Tropes & Microtropes:
✩ Grumpy x Sunshine
✩ Team's social media girl and the hockey boy 🥹
✩ He falls first
✩ Remembers how she drinks her coffee *ADORABLE!!*
✩ Very protective MMC
✩ Beautiful character development
✩ "My Ingrid."
✿ A huge thank you to @authorsarahs & @lovenotes.pr for sending me an ARC of this sweet hockey romance book (and yes I'm also thanking you for the amount of tears I cried over this adorable book) 🥹💌
⤷ 5 ⭐️
The most adorable, emotional, and hilarious hockey romance book EVER. I don't think I've ever cried over a hockey romance book before but this one.. oh my. It felt TOO real and too close to my heart, I related to SO much in this beautifully written book.
And please don't get me started on the characters, I'm literally in LOVE with each and every single character. Specially Del, like how can a person endure so much YET remain so soft-hearted? The character development here was insane. (I've SOBBED a lot)
However If I had to describe myself as one of the characters, it would definitely be Ingrid! She's such a sweet soul and I love how she was written in such an adorable manner with the perfect ratio of sunshine and realism that doesn't make her seem like an unrealistic book girl.
Tropes & Microtropes:
✩ Grumpy x Sunshine
✩ Team's social media girl and the hockey boy 🥹
✩ He falls first
✩ Remembers how she drinks her coffee *ADORABLE!!*
✩ Very protective MMC
✩ Beautiful character development
✩ "My Ingrid."
✿ A huge thank you to @authorsarahs & @lovenotes.pr for sending me an ARC of this sweet hockey romance book (and yes I'm also thanking you for the amount of tears I cried over this adorable book) 🥹💌
October 28, 2024
I loved Del and Ingrid’s story! His dark past ingrained with her lackluster romantic history, they learn to move forward together while battling pop ups from their past. Neither leaves each others side no matter how tough it gets! It’s beautiful to watch their friendship blossom into something more (though it was there from the start!!). Great read! I love this series and can’t wait for more!
I know who the next book is about and I’m excited about that!! I can’t wait to hear more about his pregame habits. I am also hoping there’ll be one about another character who isn’t currently on the team! We shall see!!
I know who the next book is about and I’m excited about that!! I can’t wait to hear more about his pregame habits. I am also hoping there’ll be one about another character who isn’t currently on the team! We shall see!!
November 5, 2024
Arc Review:
I’d like to start off by saying thank you to an amazing author Sarah Smith and to Love Notes PR for allowing me to be apart of the arc team for this book.
Overall Rating: 4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: 3 🔥🔥🔥
Cover Rating: 4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes:
🏒Friends To Lovers
💌Grumpy x Sunshine
🏒Hockey Bad Boy
💌Social Media Girl
🏒Insta-Lust
💌”Good Girl”
🏒He Falls First and Harder
💌No Third Act Breakup
‘Dirty Pucker’ is the second book in the Denver Bashers series, I read the first book in this series ‘Fake as Puck’ and loved it so I couldn’t wait to read this one, and it did not disappoint.
I had such a fun time reading this book it was everything I needed. Dirty Del, or just Del was someone I did not like in the first book but his redemption arc in this book was top notch. I love how you get to know more of his character and he genuinely felt bad for everything he’s done in his pass and that’s pretty admirable that he wanted to turn it all around, his protective side was so sweet and just the way he treated Ingrid was just everything. I loved Ingrid she understood Del on another level and she was so much fun. The chemistry between these two were amazing and I couldn’t get enough.
I can’t wait to see what else comes from this series and if you haven’t started it yet get on it you won’t regret it.
I’d like to start off by saying thank you to an amazing author Sarah Smith and to Love Notes PR for allowing me to be apart of the arc team for this book.
Overall Rating: 4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: 3 🔥🔥🔥
Cover Rating: 4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes:
🏒Friends To Lovers
💌Grumpy x Sunshine
🏒Hockey Bad Boy
💌Social Media Girl
🏒Insta-Lust
💌”Good Girl”
🏒He Falls First and Harder
💌No Third Act Breakup
‘Dirty Pucker’ is the second book in the Denver Bashers series, I read the first book in this series ‘Fake as Puck’ and loved it so I couldn’t wait to read this one, and it did not disappoint.
I had such a fun time reading this book it was everything I needed. Dirty Del, or just Del was someone I did not like in the first book but his redemption arc in this book was top notch. I love how you get to know more of his character and he genuinely felt bad for everything he’s done in his pass and that’s pretty admirable that he wanted to turn it all around, his protective side was so sweet and just the way he treated Ingrid was just everything. I loved Ingrid she understood Del on another level and she was so much fun. The chemistry between these two were amazing and I couldn’t get enough.
I can’t wait to see what else comes from this series and if you haven’t started it yet get on it you won’t regret it.
October 19, 2024
Dirty Pucker by Sarah Smith
350 Pages
Denver Bashers Series Book 2
First off Thank you to Sarah and LoveNotesPR for the ARC opportunity! And Secondly Sarah.. Thank you for the gift that is Del Richards!
Del is a Swoon Worthy, Over Protective, Dirty talking Hockey Player for the Denver Bashers, and he has earnt himself the nickname of 'Dirty Del' for many dirty hits on the ice, He gets a trade to the Bashers to be closer to his mum and sister after their past tries to catch up to him, needing to workshop his image he meets the head of the Bashers social media, Ingrid, she is convinced after 10 seconds of interaction he is not the bad guy that everyone thinks.
From Dels attentiveness especially at Ingrids time of the month, to Ingrids complete and undevoted support I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of Del and Ingrids story and cannot wait for more from this series and the extended Bashers family.
I would highly recommend that you add this book your tbr and give it a read, you will not be disappointed. For Fans of Friends to lovers, Grumpy/sunshine, Hockey bad boy, Social media girl, He falls first and harder, No 3rd act breakups.
350 Pages
Denver Bashers Series Book 2
First off Thank you to Sarah and LoveNotesPR for the ARC opportunity! And Secondly Sarah.. Thank you for the gift that is Del Richards!
Del is a Swoon Worthy, Over Protective, Dirty talking Hockey Player for the Denver Bashers, and he has earnt himself the nickname of 'Dirty Del' for many dirty hits on the ice, He gets a trade to the Bashers to be closer to his mum and sister after their past tries to catch up to him, needing to workshop his image he meets the head of the Bashers social media, Ingrid, she is convinced after 10 seconds of interaction he is not the bad guy that everyone thinks.
From Dels attentiveness especially at Ingrids time of the month, to Ingrids complete and undevoted support I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of Del and Ingrids story and cannot wait for more from this series and the extended Bashers family.
I would highly recommend that you add this book your tbr and give it a read, you will not be disappointed. For Fans of Friends to lovers, Grumpy/sunshine, Hockey bad boy, Social media girl, He falls first and harder, No 3rd act breakups.
October 31, 2024
thank you lovenotes pr for the book in exchange for an honest review
i was BORED
i’ve never read about an MMC who acted like the perfect cardboard cutout, but Del wins that competition if there ever were one
it was a mix of a constant battle of reused phrases, no plot whatsoever, no buildup, a no chemistry that truly did it for me.
2,5/5
i was BORED
i’ve never read about an MMC who acted like the perfect cardboard cutout, but Del wins that competition if there ever were one
it was a mix of a constant battle of reused phrases, no plot whatsoever, no buildup, a no chemistry that truly did it for me.
2,5/5
August 10, 2025
This one brought the drama but if I had a dollar for everytime this man said “sweetheart” I’d be rich
September 1, 2025
Dirty Pucker" by Sarah Smith is a fantastic addition to her indie romance collection. While it can certainly be enjoyed as a standalone, I appreciated knowing deeper insights into Denver Badger’s team.
The chemistry between Del and Ingrid is electric, making the romantic scenes sizzle with intensity. This book is a great choice for fans of the Insta-Lust and Forbidden Romance tropes.
Overall, "Dirty Pucker" is an engaging read for fans of Elle Kennedy & Hannah Grace. I’m sticking to 4 stars as I wish there was just a bit less reliance on the insta-lust trope for plot purposes but still 100% worth the read. I got through it in an afternoon.
On a side note, I was completely hooked by the sample chapter of book 3 in the series—I can't wait for more! I have a feeling that book 3 is going to be the best one yet.
Trigger warning for Domestic Violence; Del is a DV survivor. I think it was handled with care but take care of yourselves.
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Sarah Smith for my advanced copy; all opinions are my own.
The chemistry between Del and Ingrid is electric, making the romantic scenes sizzle with intensity. This book is a great choice for fans of the Insta-Lust and Forbidden Romance tropes.
Overall, "Dirty Pucker" is an engaging read for fans of Elle Kennedy & Hannah Grace. I’m sticking to 4 stars as I wish there was just a bit less reliance on the insta-lust trope for plot purposes but still 100% worth the read. I got through it in an afternoon.
On a side note, I was completely hooked by the sample chapter of book 3 in the series—I can't wait for more! I have a feeling that book 3 is going to be the best one yet.
Trigger warning for Domestic Violence; Del is a DV survivor. I think it was handled with care but take care of yourselves.
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Sarah Smith for my advanced copy; all opinions are my own.
November 11, 2024
Dirty Pucker by Sarah Smith is my first book from the Denver Bashers series, and I had such a good time reading the sweet love story of Del and Ingrid. It was a sweet and spicy sports romance love story involving the bad boy x good girl trope, secretly dating, friends to lovers with sizzling chemistry.
The badass dirty Del was my favorite, he was everything sweet and spicy a girl would want. His character has so many layers and sides that it made my heart flutter. He was a rookie on the field with no remorse for his opponents, a high-spirited teammate who supported his team even when they did not, the sweetest brother, a very reliable and mature son to his mother, and a possessive and passionate lover. It was the perfect fictional man a book girlie would swoon over.
I enjoyed the plot a lot, it started with Del being transferred to Denver Bashers in the NHL where everyone on the team hated him due to his Dirty Del image on and off the field. He was known for his violence and had picked a few fights with the Denver Bashers as well but he had to do this for his mother and sister. He wanted to stay in Denver close to them to avoid his dad causing trouble to the family. His dad was a drunk abuser who would hit his mom and once he grew up he felt responsible for looking after his family. He had to do everything he could to correct his image and become accepted by his team and fans.
There enters our sunshine girl Ingrid, their social media manager who was known to be best at her job but her ex-boyfriend only looked down upon her talent so trusting some was hard for her. She did not see Del as 'Dirty Del', the way the rest of the world did cause she could see the good in him. She volunteered to fix his image on social media which would in turn help him increase his fanbase. Little did Del expect the miraculous change in his fanbase as soon as she started working on his social media.
Friendship was always the plan but chemistry was undeniable and keeping hands to themselves was impossible. Hard to resist the both of them ended up soon in each other's beds. They slowly and gradually started getting to know each other and the secrets both held up for so long. Ingrid met Del's mother and saw a very different side she fell in love with Del. Del did not want to disappoint the efforts Ingrid put into him and soon the 'Dirty Del' was star player Del who aced his skills on the ice and a complete fun person outside the field.
There is love, found family, friendship, drama, no 3rd act breakup, and a very small part of violence. Overall I had a very good time reading this book.
I would like to thank Sarah Smith for giving me this opportunity to read this beautiful book and I wish her the best in her future books and look forward to more such ARC books ahead as well.
*these are just my views on the ARC copy reading*
The badass dirty Del was my favorite, he was everything sweet and spicy a girl would want. His character has so many layers and sides that it made my heart flutter. He was a rookie on the field with no remorse for his opponents, a high-spirited teammate who supported his team even when they did not, the sweetest brother, a very reliable and mature son to his mother, and a possessive and passionate lover. It was the perfect fictional man a book girlie would swoon over.
I enjoyed the plot a lot, it started with Del being transferred to Denver Bashers in the NHL where everyone on the team hated him due to his Dirty Del image on and off the field. He was known for his violence and had picked a few fights with the Denver Bashers as well but he had to do this for his mother and sister. He wanted to stay in Denver close to them to avoid his dad causing trouble to the family. His dad was a drunk abuser who would hit his mom and once he grew up he felt responsible for looking after his family. He had to do everything he could to correct his image and become accepted by his team and fans.
There enters our sunshine girl Ingrid, their social media manager who was known to be best at her job but her ex-boyfriend only looked down upon her talent so trusting some was hard for her. She did not see Del as 'Dirty Del', the way the rest of the world did cause she could see the good in him. She volunteered to fix his image on social media which would in turn help him increase his fanbase. Little did Del expect the miraculous change in his fanbase as soon as she started working on his social media.
Friendship was always the plan but chemistry was undeniable and keeping hands to themselves was impossible. Hard to resist the both of them ended up soon in each other's beds. They slowly and gradually started getting to know each other and the secrets both held up for so long. Ingrid met Del's mother and saw a very different side she fell in love with Del. Del did not want to disappoint the efforts Ingrid put into him and soon the 'Dirty Del' was star player Del who aced his skills on the ice and a complete fun person outside the field.
There is love, found family, friendship, drama, no 3rd act breakup, and a very small part of violence. Overall I had a very good time reading this book.
I would like to thank Sarah Smith for giving me this opportunity to read this beautiful book and I wish her the best in her future books and look forward to more such ARC books ahead as well.
*these are just my views on the ARC copy reading*
October 31, 2024
ARC review for Fake as Puck by Sarah Smith
Thanks to Sarah for the ARC opportunity!
Featured tropes: grumpy/sunshine, friends to lovers, he falls first (and hard), bad boy, instalust
Trigger warning: past parental abuse/alcoholic parent, physical fight (minor) and on-page arrest (also minor)
Review: 3.5/5
I was so excited to return to the Bashers! I loved book one because it was pretty low angst and just a good time which I needed when I read that book. This one had a little more tension which I appreciated but was still overall on the chiller side and definitely still a fun time.
Things I liked:
- I loved the banter. I find that little found family series have just the best dynamics between the characters. They love and support each other in all things, for sure, but they will NOT waste an opportunity to give each other crap and poke fun when the situation warrants it. This definitely fits that bill and it just makes my sarcastic little self smile.
- Del is a bossy boy and I am here for it.
- I said it after Fake as Puck and I'll say it again. Coach Porter is the best.
- It was delightful to return to the Basher's world. I squealed (and made a note in each instance) when we first saw Xander and Sophie again. It just made me happy to return to this little Basher's family.
Things I disliked or missed the mark:
- As in Fake as Puck, I again noted the logistics of Sam's presence with the Basher's fam when he plays for a different NHL team in a different city. It's definitely way better in this book since Del is now in Denver instead of Nashville and I *think* Sam's presence then got explained away a few chapters later but, yeah. Again, not a big issue, just something I noted in the first book that I again saw, albeit much improved, in the second.
- Ingrid was a little boring to me. The blurb talks about the terrible treatment she received from her ex and while, yeah, he was a typical bro-dude, she wasn't overtly mistreated. I guess I was expecting something a little more deep or meaningful other than just this guy who hasn't really grown up yet and didn't realize what he truly had. Just meh.
Overall, I think this is worth a read. Don't expect something that's going to get you into your moody feels. If you like a good sports romance or grumpy/sunshine trope and just want to have a good time, give this a shot. It's a relatively quick read and I don't think you'll have anything to be mad about if you give this book a few hours of your time.
Now, all that being out of the way, please take this moment to celebrate with me that Blomdahl's book is next!!! I've been jonesing for his book since Fake as Puck's chapter 27 game of Truth or Dare. Every time he speaks, I giggle because he's just so delightfully insane as I understand all goalies are, that I cannot wait to spend an entire book with him. Whomever is nailing that boy down must be a force.
Thanks to Sarah for the ARC opportunity!
Featured tropes: grumpy/sunshine, friends to lovers, he falls first (and hard), bad boy, instalust
Trigger warning: past parental abuse/alcoholic parent, physical fight (minor) and on-page arrest (also minor)
Review: 3.5/5
I was so excited to return to the Bashers! I loved book one because it was pretty low angst and just a good time which I needed when I read that book. This one had a little more tension which I appreciated but was still overall on the chiller side and definitely still a fun time.
Things I liked:
- I loved the banter. I find that little found family series have just the best dynamics between the characters. They love and support each other in all things, for sure, but they will NOT waste an opportunity to give each other crap and poke fun when the situation warrants it. This definitely fits that bill and it just makes my sarcastic little self smile.
- Del is a bossy boy and I am here for it.
- I said it after Fake as Puck and I'll say it again. Coach Porter is the best.
- It was delightful to return to the Basher's world. I squealed (and made a note in each instance) when we first saw Xander and Sophie again. It just made me happy to return to this little Basher's family.
Things I disliked or missed the mark:
- As in Fake as Puck, I again noted the logistics of Sam's presence with the Basher's fam when he plays for a different NHL team in a different city. It's definitely way better in this book since Del is now in Denver instead of Nashville and I *think* Sam's presence then got explained away a few chapters later but, yeah. Again, not a big issue, just something I noted in the first book that I again saw, albeit much improved, in the second.
- Ingrid was a little boring to me. The blurb talks about the terrible treatment she received from her ex and while, yeah, he was a typical bro-dude, she wasn't overtly mistreated. I guess I was expecting something a little more deep or meaningful other than just this guy who hasn't really grown up yet and didn't realize what he truly had. Just meh.
Overall, I think this is worth a read. Don't expect something that's going to get you into your moody feels. If you like a good sports romance or grumpy/sunshine trope and just want to have a good time, give this a shot. It's a relatively quick read and I don't think you'll have anything to be mad about if you give this book a few hours of your time.
Now, all that being out of the way, please take this moment to celebrate with me that Blomdahl's book is next!!! I've been jonesing for his book since Fake as Puck's chapter 27 game of Truth or Dare. Every time he speaks, I giggle because he's just so delightfully insane as I understand all goalies are, that I cannot wait to spend an entire book with him. Whomever is nailing that boy down must be a force.
August 12, 2025
Dirty Pucker is an absolute treat for sports romance lovers, blending sizzling chemistry, heartfelt emotion, and the kind of banter that makes you grin while listening. At 10 hours and 12 minutes, the story flows effortlessly, the pacing pulling you in so completely that it is easy to lose track of time. Dane Anderson and June deBorahae are perfectly cast as the narrators, each capturing the personalities and emotions of their characters with skill and charm. Their voices bring the heat and heart of the story to life!
The heart of this romance is Del, known on and off the ice as “Dirty Del.” He is the definition of a protective hockey bad boy. His reputation precedes him with tales of too many fights, too much temper, and a glare that could freeze anyone in their tracks. His resting psycho face has made him infamous, but beneath the gruff exterior is a man with loyalty, passion, and a heart that beats for more than just the game. When he meets Ingrid, the team’s beautiful blonde social media manager, sparks begin to fly in every direction. Ingrid has been tasked with the impossible job of helping him turn his image around. She is polished, professional, and a good girl through and through, but Del’s presence has a way of breaking through her walls.
The romance builds beautifully through a mix of slow-burn tension and heated moments, giving readers and listeners the best of both worlds. The tropes here are a dream combination: grumpy sunshine, protective hero, forbidden love, friends to lovers, good girl meets hockey bad boy, and the always irresistible he falls first dynamic. Watching Del’s feelings for Ingrid grow, even while he tries to keep them under control, makes the story feel all the more satisfying.
The emotional beats land just as powerfully as the steamy ones. The book balances the rush of falling in love with the vulnerability that comes from opening up to someone who sees past your worst reputation. Sarah Smith writes with warmth, humor, and plenty of spice, making this an audiobook that delivers on every level.
Dirty Pucker is more than just a hockey romance. It is a story about redemption, trust, and finding the one person who can see who you truly are beneath all the rough edges. This is a must-read for anyone who loves sports romance that blends swoon-worthy moments with a heartfelt core.
Thank you to Librofm for providing me with this audiobook in exchange for my honest review!
The heart of this romance is Del, known on and off the ice as “Dirty Del.” He is the definition of a protective hockey bad boy. His reputation precedes him with tales of too many fights, too much temper, and a glare that could freeze anyone in their tracks. His resting psycho face has made him infamous, but beneath the gruff exterior is a man with loyalty, passion, and a heart that beats for more than just the game. When he meets Ingrid, the team’s beautiful blonde social media manager, sparks begin to fly in every direction. Ingrid has been tasked with the impossible job of helping him turn his image around. She is polished, professional, and a good girl through and through, but Del’s presence has a way of breaking through her walls.
The romance builds beautifully through a mix of slow-burn tension and heated moments, giving readers and listeners the best of both worlds. The tropes here are a dream combination: grumpy sunshine, protective hero, forbidden love, friends to lovers, good girl meets hockey bad boy, and the always irresistible he falls first dynamic. Watching Del’s feelings for Ingrid grow, even while he tries to keep them under control, makes the story feel all the more satisfying.
The emotional beats land just as powerfully as the steamy ones. The book balances the rush of falling in love with the vulnerability that comes from opening up to someone who sees past your worst reputation. Sarah Smith writes with warmth, humor, and plenty of spice, making this an audiobook that delivers on every level.
Dirty Pucker is more than just a hockey romance. It is a story about redemption, trust, and finding the one person who can see who you truly are beneath all the rough edges. This is a must-read for anyone who loves sports romance that blends swoon-worthy moments with a heartfelt core.
Thank you to Librofm for providing me with this audiobook in exchange for my honest review!
October 28, 2024
ARC Read
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Dirty pucker was a perfect mix of fun, sweetness, and spice! Del and Ingrid’s story felt like a breath of fresh air—it’s such a cute read, with no third-act breakup, which honestly made me love it even more. Del is known as the NHL’s “bad boy,” but behind the tough reputation is a total sweetheart who falls head over heels for Ingrid, the team’s social media queen. From their very first interaction, the chemistry between them is electric, and it’s so refreshing to see a romance where the “bad boy” is actually just a big softie at heart.
Del’s little acts of thoughtfulness—like getting Ingrid her favorite snacks every month—made him a swoon-worthy new book boyfriend. Their relationship has all the wonderful tropes: grumpy/sunshine, friends-to-lovers, and the “he falls first and harder” dynamic. But it’s not just fun and games; Sarah skillfully weaves in serious themes, like Del’s family history with domestic violence, which adds a layer of depth to his character and their relationship. However, I did find myself wanting just a little more background on Ingrid. I felt like there was more to her character that we didn’t fully get to see, especially in terms of her journey to where she is within the team.
The Denver Bashers team is another highlight of the book—I loved the camaraderie and unique personalities of each member, which made me eager to read more of their stories. Each character feels like they have a story worth exploring, and I can’t wait to dive into more Bashers books in the future!
Thank you, Sarah, and LoveNotesPR, for the ARC opportunity! Del Richards was an absolute gift! This book is perfect for fans of hockey romances, friends-to-lovers, and swoony grumpy/sunshine dynamics. Add this one to your TBR—you won’t be disappointed!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Dirty pucker was a perfect mix of fun, sweetness, and spice! Del and Ingrid’s story felt like a breath of fresh air—it’s such a cute read, with no third-act breakup, which honestly made me love it even more. Del is known as the NHL’s “bad boy,” but behind the tough reputation is a total sweetheart who falls head over heels for Ingrid, the team’s social media queen. From their very first interaction, the chemistry between them is electric, and it’s so refreshing to see a romance where the “bad boy” is actually just a big softie at heart.
Del’s little acts of thoughtfulness—like getting Ingrid her favorite snacks every month—made him a swoon-worthy new book boyfriend. Their relationship has all the wonderful tropes: grumpy/sunshine, friends-to-lovers, and the “he falls first and harder” dynamic. But it’s not just fun and games; Sarah skillfully weaves in serious themes, like Del’s family history with domestic violence, which adds a layer of depth to his character and their relationship. However, I did find myself wanting just a little more background on Ingrid. I felt like there was more to her character that we didn’t fully get to see, especially in terms of her journey to where she is within the team.
The Denver Bashers team is another highlight of the book—I loved the camaraderie and unique personalities of each member, which made me eager to read more of their stories. Each character feels like they have a story worth exploring, and I can’t wait to dive into more Bashers books in the future!
Thank you, Sarah, and LoveNotesPR, for the ARC opportunity! Del Richards was an absolute gift! This book is perfect for fans of hockey romances, friends-to-lovers, and swoony grumpy/sunshine dynamics. Add this one to your TBR—you won’t be disappointed!
October 23, 2024
ARC Review
Genre: Sports Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: Dual
Burn: Fast
Tropes: Grumpy Sunshine, Friends To Lovers, Hockey Bad Boy, Insta-Lust, Social Media Girl, He Falls First And Harder. *Check trigger warnings*
This is the second book in series but can be read as a standalone.
Del Richards, also known as “Dirty Del,” is the dirtiest brawler in the NHL. He gets traded to the Denver Bashers to be close to his mom and sister for their protection. However, Del quickly realizes he needs to rebuild his image if he wants to stay.
Ingrid is the team’s social media manager, and with her help, they work toward this goal. Ingrid sees that Del isn’t the bad boy everyone thinks he is, and Del finds himself smitten with her. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and soon they can’t resist their attraction.
Del is the ultimate cinnamon roll book boyfriend, despite his rough exterior. Ingrid is the sweet, understanding girl, making them an adorable match. I love how protective Del is, *bonus points for his filthy mouth 🥵* and I appreciated Ingrid's unwavering support throughout the story.
Overall, this is a cute, fast-paced hockey romance filled with spice and a bit of drama that will keep you engaged.
Thank you to Sarah and Love Notes PR for giving me the chance to read and review this ARC.
Genre: Sports Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: Dual
Burn: Fast
Tropes: Grumpy Sunshine, Friends To Lovers, Hockey Bad Boy, Insta-Lust, Social Media Girl, He Falls First And Harder. *Check trigger warnings*
This is the second book in series but can be read as a standalone.
Del Richards, also known as “Dirty Del,” is the dirtiest brawler in the NHL. He gets traded to the Denver Bashers to be close to his mom and sister for their protection. However, Del quickly realizes he needs to rebuild his image if he wants to stay.
Ingrid is the team’s social media manager, and with her help, they work toward this goal. Ingrid sees that Del isn’t the bad boy everyone thinks he is, and Del finds himself smitten with her. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and soon they can’t resist their attraction.
Del is the ultimate cinnamon roll book boyfriend, despite his rough exterior. Ingrid is the sweet, understanding girl, making them an adorable match. I love how protective Del is, *bonus points for his filthy mouth 🥵* and I appreciated Ingrid's unwavering support throughout the story.
Overall, this is a cute, fast-paced hockey romance filled with spice and a bit of drama that will keep you engaged.
Thank you to Sarah and Love Notes PR for giving me the chance to read and review this ARC.
October 26, 2024
Sarah Smith is a new discover for me and now I want to read everything she’s published. I devoured it in 24 hours!!
Del is a complex character, with a quite heavy background. His past made him the way he’s but, with this book, he has a redemption journey, and he accomplished the hero path with flying colors. On the other hand, we have Ingrid, a manual sunshine that, regardless of her group of family and friends, which are very important to her, she made her own opinion about Del, based on her guts and their interactions together, and I think is a beautiful message to focus on. Their have that “love at first sight” chemistry that I found quite difficult to describe in a convincing way, however, Sarah Smith achieves it and make me swoon with their interactions and how their relationship grow from sexual tension to a healthy and honest love (with lots of sensual tension). 😆
I enjoyed their found family, their banter (between the whole team and between the main characters) and camaraderie and I encourage you to read this book if you like the following tropes:
- Workplace romance
- Sport romance
- Grumpy/sunshine
- Found family
- Friends to lovers
- He falls first
- Found family
- No 3rd act break-up
This book is an open-door book, which means it has spicy scenes that I really enjoyed with explicit language (if you like dirty talk, no doubt, you’re going to love it it).
My rating:
4/5⭐️ 2,5/5🌶️
I want to thank Sarah Smith, her team and Love Notes PR for letting me read in advance this book and give my honest opinion about it. ❤️
Del is a complex character, with a quite heavy background. His past made him the way he’s but, with this book, he has a redemption journey, and he accomplished the hero path with flying colors. On the other hand, we have Ingrid, a manual sunshine that, regardless of her group of family and friends, which are very important to her, she made her own opinion about Del, based on her guts and their interactions together, and I think is a beautiful message to focus on. Their have that “love at first sight” chemistry that I found quite difficult to describe in a convincing way, however, Sarah Smith achieves it and make me swoon with their interactions and how their relationship grow from sexual tension to a healthy and honest love (with lots of sensual tension). 😆
I enjoyed their found family, their banter (between the whole team and between the main characters) and camaraderie and I encourage you to read this book if you like the following tropes:
- Workplace romance
- Sport romance
- Grumpy/sunshine
- Found family
- Friends to lovers
- He falls first
- Found family
- No 3rd act break-up
This book is an open-door book, which means it has spicy scenes that I really enjoyed with explicit language (if you like dirty talk, no doubt, you’re going to love it it).
My rating:
4/5⭐️ 2,5/5🌶️
I want to thank Sarah Smith, her team and Love Notes PR for letting me read in advance this book and give my honest opinion about it. ❤️
October 22, 2024
Unfortunately, this book just didn’t do it for me- I think I just wanted more. I mean Del and Ingrid had great chemistry from the start, even though they tried to stay away because they’re both new to the Bashers organization in their roles. I liked both of these characters, but they just didn’t give me enough- Ingrid is pretty flat- we know she’s a pretty influencer from a rich family who becomes a social media guru for the team. And without much other background, we should feel sorry for her for being criticized in the past for being told she is just this? Meh.
Del? He’s definitely got more depth, Mr Dirty Del who’s really a softie at heart and fights because he regrets the time he couldn’t fight to protect his mom. That is sweet- and honestly, really deep to read about. His journey back home to protect his mom, even when he knows it’s going to be difficult, shows how good a guy he is.
Together? These two have chemistry, that’s for sure. They both seem to fall hard and fast, and they really support each other in many aspects.
Overall, a solid middle of the road, quick and easy 3/5 ⭐️ read, with some solid spicy scenes if you want to have a quick read and turn your brain off a bit.
Del? He’s definitely got more depth, Mr Dirty Del who’s really a softie at heart and fights because he regrets the time he couldn’t fight to protect his mom. That is sweet- and honestly, really deep to read about. His journey back home to protect his mom, even when he knows it’s going to be difficult, shows how good a guy he is.
Together? These two have chemistry, that’s for sure. They both seem to fall hard and fast, and they really support each other in many aspects.
Overall, a solid middle of the road, quick and easy 3/5 ⭐️ read, with some solid spicy scenes if you want to have a quick read and turn your brain off a bit.
October 18, 2024
⭐️ ARC REVIEW ⭐️
If you love a filthy-mouthed hockey player who’s secretly a softie for the girl he can’t stop thinking about, Dirty Pucker is the book for you!
Del is the ultimate grumpy to Ingrid’s sunshine, and they balance each other perfectly. Watching their relationship grow from friends to lovers was beautiful! These are two adults who genuinely love taking care of the people in their lives, finally getting the healthy, loving, caring relationship they deserve.
Their connection, the incredible friendships and family ties, and their passion for their careers make them a perfect match. I loved the mix of lighthearted, deep, and intense moments that gave their characters so much depth—it made the entire read a fun and emotional ride.
If you’re into grumpy x sunshine, filthy-mouthed hockey players, instant connections, and a “good girl” romance, pick up Dirty Pucker! You won’t be disappointed!
If you love a filthy-mouthed hockey player who’s secretly a softie for the girl he can’t stop thinking about, Dirty Pucker is the book for you!
Del is the ultimate grumpy to Ingrid’s sunshine, and they balance each other perfectly. Watching their relationship grow from friends to lovers was beautiful! These are two adults who genuinely love taking care of the people in their lives, finally getting the healthy, loving, caring relationship they deserve.
Their connection, the incredible friendships and family ties, and their passion for their careers make them a perfect match. I loved the mix of lighthearted, deep, and intense moments that gave their characters so much depth—it made the entire read a fun and emotional ride.
If you’re into grumpy x sunshine, filthy-mouthed hockey players, instant connections, and a “good girl” romance, pick up Dirty Pucker! You won’t be disappointed!
October 29, 2024
Holy crap! I binged this in a day and couldn’t put it down!
I enjoyed this book so freaking much! I was so exited for Del’s story after being introduced to him in Fake as Puck! I really fell in love with his character when you were able to see the real side of him and get to know him. I loved seeing him become part of the team and build a relationship with his teammates.
I loved Ingrid and Del’s story so much! The way that Ingrid was there for Del when he needed it was so special. Del has such a big heart and is so protective of his loved ones. This was such a great grumpy x sunshine romance!
I cannot wait to read what Sarah Smith writes next!! I will definitely be reading it!
If you love….
- Dual POV
- Hockey Romance
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Friends to Lovers
- Workplace Romance
- Spice
- Protective MC
- No 3rd Act Breakup
Thank you to Sarah Smith and Love Notes PR for the advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest review!
I enjoyed this book so freaking much! I was so exited for Del’s story after being introduced to him in Fake as Puck! I really fell in love with his character when you were able to see the real side of him and get to know him. I loved seeing him become part of the team and build a relationship with his teammates.
I loved Ingrid and Del’s story so much! The way that Ingrid was there for Del when he needed it was so special. Del has such a big heart and is so protective of his loved ones. This was such a great grumpy x sunshine romance!
I cannot wait to read what Sarah Smith writes next!! I will definitely be reading it!
If you love….
- Dual POV
- Hockey Romance
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Friends to Lovers
- Workplace Romance
- Spice
- Protective MC
- No 3rd Act Breakup
Thank you to Sarah Smith and Love Notes PR for the advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest review!
October 18, 2024
First off, I want to thank Sarah Smith, and Love Notes PR for letting me read this ARC in return for a review!
You know…. Even for being in a reading “funk” I still managed to actually enjoy this!! I’m pretty sure this book has also put me in my hockey reading era!!
I loved the fact that with one scene this book changed my mind of it being a 4 star to a 5 star. Del was so worried bout his hockey playing future on the team he’s on! And when he realized everyone had become family, instant 5 stars as it made me go awwww and gave me little goosebumps! Then there’s the way that Ingrid was basically his ride or die from the start was good!!
If you like the friends to lovers trope, and hockey themed books, you should definitely read this! I could definitely see myself giving this a reread later on!!
You know…. Even for being in a reading “funk” I still managed to actually enjoy this!! I’m pretty sure this book has also put me in my hockey reading era!!
I loved the fact that with one scene this book changed my mind of it being a 4 star to a 5 star. Del was so worried bout his hockey playing future on the team he’s on! And when he realized everyone had become family, instant 5 stars as it made me go awwww and gave me little goosebumps! Then there’s the way that Ingrid was basically his ride or die from the start was good!!
If you like the friends to lovers trope, and hockey themed books, you should definitely read this! I could definitely see myself giving this a reread later on!!
October 30, 2024
Dirty Pucker may be my favorite read of Sarah Smith’s so far!! I love love love Del and Ingrid. They have immediate chemistry that only grows throughout the story and watching them find the balance between their budding friendship and their undeniable chemistry is so beautiful.
The arc that Del goes through in his own journey is beautiful. From the instigator on the ice to the gentle man off the ice, we see so much growth from him. His love for his family comes through so much in this story and it really shows who he is at his core.
Once again, Sarah Smith does just gorgeous romance! I loved reading this book as NHL hockey is just coming back- it was the perfect timing! I’m so excited for more of the Denver Bashers in the next book Suck My Puck!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
The arc that Del goes through in his own journey is beautiful. From the instigator on the ice to the gentle man off the ice, we see so much growth from him. His love for his family comes through so much in this story and it really shows who he is at his core.
Once again, Sarah Smith does just gorgeous romance! I loved reading this book as NHL hockey is just coming back- it was the perfect timing! I’m so excited for more of the Denver Bashers in the next book Suck My Puck!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
October 28, 2024
I could read 100 books featuring an overprotective, doting man who puts everything he's got into a relationship and never get tired of it. This is such a quick read and once I started I couldn't put it down. I loved Ingrid and Del from their very first meeting in the bar. The tension between them was perfect and the timing was perfect regarding having Theo apologize about warning Del off of Ingrid. The additional plot with Del's family drama was just enough to add intrigue and develop the characters without staying too far from the romance. Smith's writing style was a bit repetitive at times, but nothing that took away from the story. I'm really glad this was dual POV because I loved getting both of their thoughts and perspectives.
October 29, 2024
Dirty Pucker ARC
Del and Ingrid
3.5 STARS
Del is the most hated player in the NHL and Ingrid is a sweet social media girl. They had an immediate attraction and know it's in their best interests not to respond to it.
These two are so cute together. They tried to keep things professional and just be friends, but let's be honest, that's not happening. I was laughing and giggling. This was a cute read for me. Del is so protective of her, I loved it. He calls her "Sweetheart" and Ingrid is so sweet and knows that Del is not that grumpy as everyone see.
Thank Sarah Smith and Love Notes PR for the ARC.
Del and Ingrid
3.5 STARS
Del is the most hated player in the NHL and Ingrid is a sweet social media girl. They had an immediate attraction and know it's in their best interests not to respond to it.
These two are so cute together. They tried to keep things professional and just be friends, but let's be honest, that's not happening. I was laughing and giggling. This was a cute read for me. Del is so protective of her, I loved it. He calls her "Sweetheart" and Ingrid is so sweet and knows that Del is not that grumpy as everyone see.
Thank Sarah Smith and Love Notes PR for the ARC.
November 1, 2024
Arc read ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
⭐️3.5
“You could never look like a mess. Not in a million years. You got the ‘hot’ part right though. You always look sexy.”
I always love an sport romance, especially when their working for the same team! It gives those cute scenes💗
Del and ingrid have a super cute relationship. But i had some cringe moments, i'm not a big fan of only spice and a little plot. Although i had a good time reading about the development with his new team. It was just everytime they saw eachother they could only think about having sex😔
And after everthing they are eachothers constant. It couldn't be any thing different because del was absolutly obsessed with her🥺🤍
⭐️3.5
“You could never look like a mess. Not in a million years. You got the ‘hot’ part right though. You always look sexy.”
I always love an sport romance, especially when their working for the same team! It gives those cute scenes💗
Del and ingrid have a super cute relationship. But i had some cringe moments, i'm not a big fan of only spice and a little plot. Although i had a good time reading about the development with his new team. It was just everytime they saw eachother they could only think about having sex😔
And after everthing they are eachothers constant. It couldn't be any thing different because del was absolutly obsessed with her🥺🤍
October 23, 2024
ARC Review
This was my first Sarah Smith book and I was not disappointed! This was such a cute hockey romance. I'm always a sucker for a social media FMC so this was right up my alley. Ingrid and Del were perfect for each other in every way, and I loved reading about their growth together.
The only reason that this isn't a 5 star read for me is that I felt like both characters really had their heads in the gutter in every single scene (but I'm also not complaining about that too much). This book has plenty of spice, and also a great amount of cutesy scenes. A perfect read for all those seeking Good Girl hockey guys who are obsessed with their women.
This was my first Sarah Smith book and I was not disappointed! This was such a cute hockey romance. I'm always a sucker for a social media FMC so this was right up my alley. Ingrid and Del were perfect for each other in every way, and I loved reading about their growth together.
The only reason that this isn't a 5 star read for me is that I felt like both characters really had their heads in the gutter in every single scene (but I'm also not complaining about that too much). This book has plenty of spice, and also a great amount of cutesy scenes. A perfect read for all those seeking Good Girl hockey guys who are obsessed with their women.
September 1, 2025
I enjoyed Fake as Puck, the first book in the series and hated Del. I was surprised that the 2nd book was about him and was intrigued with his redemption story.
Del has a bad rap in hockey and was recently traded to Denver Basher. Ingrid, who works in Basher's social media, is assigned to clean up his image.
I enjoyed this forbidden work romance. They had great banter which worked so well with the duet narration by Dane Anderson and June deBorahae.
I look forward to continuing this series.
Thank you @libro.fm for a copy of the audiobook.
Del has a bad rap in hockey and was recently traded to Denver Basher. Ingrid, who works in Basher's social media, is assigned to clean up his image.
I enjoyed this forbidden work romance. They had great banter which worked so well with the duet narration by Dane Anderson and June deBorahae.
I look forward to continuing this series.
Thank you @libro.fm for a copy of the audiobook.
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