Two Minutes for Holding

by S.L. Sterling

Knox stood across from me, anger in his eyes, his right hand in a fist ready to hit me. In that moment, as I stared at him trying to figure out what to say before he hit me, I wished I’d never walked into that little dive bar.

Actually, that wasn’t true because that was the night that changed my life forever.

That was the night I saved Knox’s little sister, Peyton, from making what I was certain was a huge mistake I’d figure she’d regret for the rest of her life.

We all had a code among the players on the team. We all looked after one another, and that included family members. So, when I saw some guy hitting on Peyton, I stepped in. I pretended to be her boyfriend to get rid of the guy who’d been hitting on her and when she turned those big hazel eyes on me things didn’t stop there. I bought her drinks, let her vent out her frustrations about the fight she’d just had with her brother and then one thing led to another, and she ended up wrapped up in my sheets.

A few months later, the memory of her and that night remains fresh in my mind and soon she is all I can think about. Thankfully, I get to see her again at the season’s end barbeque. Armed with good intentions, that is when I find out everything is about to change in not only my life but hers, including my friendship with her brother.

The guys on the team had always told me love would hit me when I least expected it, either that or I’d get a girl in trouble. I just never believed they would both happen at the same time.

Genres: Hockey, Sports Romance

200 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 25, 2025

About the author

USA Today Bestselling Author S.L. Sterling was born and raised in southern Ontario.

An avid reader all her life, S.L. Sterling dreamt of becoming an author. She decided to give writing a try after one of her favorite authors launched a course on how to write your novel. This course gave her the push she needed to put pen to paper and her debut novel "It Was Always You" was born.

When S.L. Sterling isn't writing or plotting her next novel she can be found curled up with a cup of coffee, blanket and the newest romance novel from one of her favorite authors.

In her spare time, she enjoys camping, hiking, sunny destinations, spending quality time with family and friends and of course reading.

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Reviews

[Erin Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Star Review Two Minutes for Holding (Vancouver Dominators #3) by S.L. Sterling

Two Minutes for Holding was a good addition to the Vancouver Dominator series by S.L. Sterling.

This is Knox’s sister Peyton and his teammate Clay’s story and you cannot help but become
Invested in their story.

All it takes is one night to change the course of their future. From that moment, they had a connection and it was wonderful to watch as their relationship developed.

One of the things I really liked was that Peyton could see beneath the front that Clay showed the world. She knew that there was more to him and I admired her.

Their journey had its ups and downs but I was cheering them on.

[Meredith Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

NO Spoilers! I received this book in advance as I am an ARC reader and am giving my free an honest opinion. The quote by John Marrs states,”You can either learn from your parents' mistakes, or repeat them and use them as an excuse for your own behavior”. This basically sums up our girl Peyton’s behavior despite her brother’s best attempts to help her. But was it because he is to close to the situation or because he is “brother”? Who can really help us when we are at our lowest? Is there really knights is armor anymore or do they come in hokey pants?

[Nikki Costello ***Crazy Cajun Book Addicts Blog*** · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two Minutes for Holding is book 3 in the Vancouver Dominators NHL series, and it's Clay and Peyton's story.

Peyton is having a hard time and feels she has no one to turn to, but a chance encounter with her brothers best friend and teammate Clay so turns things around and they end up spending thd night together. A few weeks later, Peyton has news for Clay. Will Peyton finally get the love of a good man and live her happily ever after.

I really enjoyed this story. It had me hooked from the very first page.

[Marea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is 3rd in the Vancouver Dominators NHL series. We’ve seen Knox’s sister Peyton in previous books mentioned as well as Clay the teams playboy goalie. This is their story and how a brief encounter can lead into a new never ending romance story. It is a stand alone book but it does help if you have read the other ones to truly understand some of the characters in this book. It was a fast pace book, that you cannot put down until you are finished.

Peyton should have had a decent life but she seemed to be like her mother and have bad luck when it came time to picking a man to be in a relationship with. Instead of breaking away from her boyfriend Tor, she got trapped more and what he was making her do, was causing big rifts between her and her brother. One night by chance she meets Clay at a local dive bar and the magic between them is undeniable. He might seem like the same type she is always attracted to, but after awhile she realizes that is just a front. The true Clay can be someone that she could spend the rest of her life with, if she is finally able to get everything together.

Clay had an image to maintain, he was a hot goalie who could pick up any girl in any bar and then move on to the next and be the clown of the pack of players. The problem was that is just what he wanted everyone to believe he was, when in actuality he never talked about his childhood for a reason. One night he went to a dive bar while in town and ran into Knox’s sister Peyton. When he saw her having issues with a sleezeball of a man he came to her rescue. It should have been an easy thing right, wrong, because there was a definitely a connection between the two of them and it was one he didn’t want to let go of.

Thanks to S.L. Sterling for an ARC of this book for my honest opinion.

[Jinane Abou Hassan zahran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two Minutes for Holding by S. L. Sterling is a heartfelt and engaging romance that delivers an emotional journey of love, trust, and redemption.

The story follows Clay Harris, a dedicated hockey player of the Vancouver Dominators, who steps in to help Peyton, his teammate and friend Knox’s little sister, when he sees her being harassed at a bar. What starts as a simple act of protection turns into something much deeper. Peyton has had bad experiences with men before, but Clay proves to be different—he’s the best man she’s ever met, treating her with the kindness and respect she deserves. Their connection grows stronger with a twist, but with Knox’s protectiveness and the close-knit team dynamics, complications arise.

One of the highlights of the novel is how Clay, Knox, their teammates, and their partners navigate their friendships after Clay’s involvement with Peyton. The camaraderie among the team members adds a great dynamic to the story, and the series, making it even more enjoyable. Peyton’s journey is also incredibly satisfying, as she finally finds happiness and security after everything she’s been through.

I’m not usually a big fan of sports romance, but this book was a pleasant surprise. It was a fast-paced, engaging read with well-developed characters and a satisfying conclusion.

Final Verdict: Two Minutes for Holding is a great romance that balances emotion, drama, and strong character dynamics. It’s a recommended read for those who enjoy heartfelt love stories with protective heroes and a well-earned happy ending.

I received this book as an ARC and am leaving my review voluntarily.

[Star-Book Reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

A story of choices made and how they affect your life and others who care about you. Peyton Evans, sister to Vancouver Dominators hockey player Knox Evans, definitely knows how to make some bad choices and her brother is the one often bailing her out or trying to talk her out of continuing in the ones she’s made. When he finally shows more of a tough love attitude, Peyton feels the need to escape his disappointment, ending up in a local Vancouver bar where Knox’s teammate Clay Harris happens to be. The two get reacquainted and Peyton finds herself confiding in Clay while both drink maybe more than they should, leading to Clay calling an Uber to take them home and then before he knows it he’s crossed a line…he’s kissed the sister of one of his teammates. No worries, just a kiss, won’t happen again….the problem is he just can’t quit thinking about it…about her and then they meet again.
Knox is a brother and a son with a heavy burden of caring on his shoulders and he might not exactly control his own temper when someone is hurting the ones he cares about. Anger management classes needed for him. Peyton needed to learn to be honest not only with those who loved and cared about her but to herself. She was not being honest to herself by continuing to return to the same toxic relationship. Clay was the only one who I felt acted mature and reasonable pretty much throughout although he made some questionable choices himself. Choices…when you make them you had better be ready to live with the consequences. Lorelai sure showed Knox what happens when he made a wrong choice too.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kelchickbooklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

S.L. Sterling has pulled us in again with her captivating storyline, characters you can easily relate to and a love story filled with angst and love. Two Minutes for Holding is a teammate's sister, surprise pregnancy spots romance that follows Clay and Peyton, Knoxx's little sister.
Peyton is having a rough time of things with her pathetic boyfriend, being kicked out of school and now getting caught for shoplifting. She is struggling in life and just wants to be loved but just maybe the love she thinks she has is not love at all. When she is at the breaking point and being harassed at the local bar, Clay, her brother Knox's teammate comes to her rescue. Clay is known as the playboy of the team but deep down inside is he really? When the guys on the team bug him that the love bug will bite him when he least expects it, he kinda laughs them off. That is until he comes to Peyton's rescue. The love bug may have taken the first bite but is it fate that sees them coming face to face again? Things take a turn and all hell breaks loose but Clay and Peyton fight for what they want.
I love the close knit family the guys have with their teammates. The way that they have one another's back. I also love the way that Clay steps up and takes responsibility for what happens and tells the world that Peyton is his. Peyton, although started as a girl who didn't know how to fight for herself, she grew into a woman who stood her ground and told people like it was. I can't wait for the next installment in this series.

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

S.L. Sterling’s Two Minutes for Holding, the third installment in the Vancouver Dominators series, is a captivating hockey romance that combines elements of surprise pregnancy, one-night stands, and a cinnamon roll hero. The story follows a compelling narrative that explores themes of unexpected love and personal growth.

One of the standout features of Two Minutes for Holding is its ability to balance humor with heartfelt moments. The protagonist, Ardon, is a likable character whose journey from a casual encounter to embracing unexpected responsibilities is both relatable and engaging. The chemistry between Ardon and his love interest is undeniable, and their relationship evolves naturally throughout the story.

Sterling’s writing style is engaging, making it easy to immerse oneself in the world of hockey and romance. The supporting characters, particularly the teammates and family members, add depth to the narrative. However, some readers might find that certain plot points feel slightly predictable or that the character development could be more nuanced in places.

Overall, Two Minutes for Holding is a delightful addition to the Vancouver Dominators series. With its blend of humor, romance, and hockey, it’s a solid four-star read for fans of sports romances. The surprise pregnancy and one-night stand elements add an exciting twist, making this a must-read for those who enjoy unexpected love stories!

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding storyline. This is the 3rd book of the Vancouver Dominators (Hockey Team) Series and it was just as exciting to me as the first 2. This is Clay and Peyton’s story. Clay is the teams’ goalie/playboy and Peyton is Knox’s sister (Knox’s story is book 2). Their story is an emotional one that had me worried as well as smiling. Payton isn’t known for making the best decisions in her life, something Knox is constantly on her for. So when she runs into Clay, her brother’s teammate, at a local bar, she starts to unload her troubles on him. One thing leads to another and they end up spending a glorious unforgettable night together. But both know it’s a one time thing, as players don’t date other player’s sisters. But as time passes, neither can get that night out of their minds and when they bump into each other again, sanity goes out the window. Things get more complicated from here. Can Clay and Peyton manage to have a serious relationship with so many obstacles in their way? If so, can they manage to come out unscathed when Knox finds out?

This is a great story that this reader just loved. My heart broke for both of them at times. But it soared at the woman Peyton becomes as well as for the man Clay turned out to be. I highly recommend this book as well as the entire series to date.

2 Thumbs Up and 5 Stars

[Jackie Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two Minutes For Holding is hockey goalkeeper Clay and his teammates sister Peyton’s heartwarming and at times heartbreaking story. It’s book three in the Vancouver Dominators NHL Series and once I picked this book up there was no putting it down.
Peyton can’t get a break and it seems every decision she makes put her in hot water with her brother Knox. She knows she needs to breakup with her boyfriend Tor but he always squirms his way back into her life and taking things he shouldn’t always puts an even bigger rift in her relationship with her brother. A chance meeting in a bar with Clay leads to a night of passion but she knows her brother will see it as her doing the wrong thing once again so she leaves without saying goodbye.
Clay is living up to a reputation he thinks he should have but deep down all he wants is a family and love. He thought he had found the one with Peyton but once again he was left alone so what happens when the two cross paths again in the team hotel ……and who would have thought this night was about to change their lives forever.
This is a beautifully written love story, it’s about trust and families, it’s about finding love when you didn’t expect it and it has characters you quickly become invested in.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vancouver Dominators #3

Peyton's life has really been out of control for a while. She has a boyfriend that treats her badly, steals her money and more. Peyton is also the little sister to Knox who plays for the Dominators. He does step in to help his sister and mom out but he's also put out with the decisions Peyton makes. He is in the process of having them move to Vancouver.
One night she's out at a bar and getting hit on by some jerk of a guy Clay steps in to help her out.

Clay Harris is the star goalie and has been with the Dominators for the past five years. He's also known as the playboy. When he sees Peyton and thinks she is in trouble he steps in especially as Knox is his best friend. But one thing leads to another and one night isn't enough to keep them away from each other, even if it means lying to her brother.

Their chemistry is strong and they like each other but things are about to change. Will this tear them apart or bring them closer together? Family dynamics!

4 stars

[Marni Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hooked from the very first page , devouring every single word to the point yes I actually lost track of time , smiling, laughing out loud, crying and cheering so freaking hard. With every book in this absolutely amazing series I’ve fallen more and more in love . That being said I do think that Peyton and Clays journey just might be my favorite yet . Our heroine Peyton has without a doubt not had an easy go of it . Struggling to get out of a toxic relationship and the emotional toll that has taken on her . And Clay her brother’s best friend ( who comes across as the biggest player - but in all reality it’s only a facade because underneath is a sweet guy with a heart of gold ) he comes to her rescue and from that moment on everything changes . Add into that the angst , the humor , the witty banter, the tragedy, the love , the passion, the heartbreaking and heartfelt moments, the family and friendships. Two Minutes For holding is a must read and another fantastic addition to The Vancouver Dominators hockey series

[Sassy Southern Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two Minutes for Holding by S.L. Sterling was exciting, heartbreaking, and heartwarming. I enjoyed the storyline; it was page-turning and original. I enjoyed the sports romance with a little surprise, a teammate's younger sister, and some drama mixed in. This book is the third in the Vancouver Dominators series and is my favorite!!! This book can be read as a standalone, but to get all the other characters in this book, start with Inside the Penalty Box; you won't be disappointed. This book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions, and I loved every minute of it.

Payton was trying to get back on her feet, and my heart broke for what she was going through. I thought she had determination, stubbornness, and a big heart. Clay was the playboy in white shining armor. I loved his loyalty to his team and his intensity when it came to getting what he wanted. Their chemistry was intense and undeniable. I enjoyed Payton and Clay's journey from friends to lovers and was sad when their book was over. I can't wait to see what comes next in this series!!! I am obsessed- By Brooke

[Amanda Schumacher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic story and heartwarming. I couldn't put this down at all. Clay & Peyton are as adorable as Dylan and Aurora. What happens with the brothers best friend starts seeing the little sister behind everyone's backs? There are surprises and bumps along the way. Peyton's life has been spinning out of control thanks to her abusive boyfriend Tor. Her brother Knox and their mother have been trying to separate her from him. He's caused her to stop going to school, to work to give him money. After a big fight with Knox; Peyton ends up at the local dive bar when she starts getting hit on by a guy she's not interested in. Clay; who is Knox's best friend comes to her rescue and plays the role of doting boyfriend to get the guy away. They grab a drink together and eventually leave in a cab together with Clay dropping Peyton off at Knox's. What happens from there is chaos and a beautiful story.

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

“Love, Trouble, and Hockey Drama Collide in Two Minutes for Holding—A Must-Read Sports Romance!”

Clay’s teammates always joked that love would hit him when he least expected it—or that he’d get himself into trouble first. Turns out, they were right on both counts. In Two Minutes for Holding, S.L. Sterling delivers a sizzling, fast-paced hockey romance that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

Peyton has had her fair share of heartbreak, with one disastrous relationship after another—the last one causing the most trouble yet. Seeking a break from it all, she and her mom visit her brother, Knox, who just happens to be Clay’s teammate and friend. The moment Peyton and Clay cross paths, the chemistry is undeniable. But neither of them is exactly relationship-ready, and as they navigate their fiery attraction, fate decides to throw them an even bigger curveball. And when Knox finds out? Well, that’s a whole new level of drama.

What makes this novella even more compelling is the strong presence of Clay’s teammates and their partners. Their unwavering support adds that signature found-family vibe, making this story not just about romance but also about loyalty, friendship, and standing by your people.

With passion, tension, and just the right amount of chaos, Two Minutes for Holding is a must-read addition to the Vancouver Dominators series. S.L. Sterling scores another win with this one!

[Trace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two Minutes for Holding is the 3rd book in the Vancouver Dominators series.
We have Peyton Evans and Clay Harris. She is the sister of Knox one of the players on the team and Clay is a teammate of Knox. So you know this isn't going to go well. lol One night the end up and the same bar in town. Peyton is having a really bad time right now. Between bad boyfriends and her mom in a abusive relationship. They end up spending what is suppose to be one night together but they can't seem to get enough. Almost got caught a few times. Knox wants them to move to Vancouver to be closer to him.
Once some news is confirmed Clay tells Knox about him and his sister and let's say that doesn't go well. After a very heated dinner and engagments almost called off they finally make up. Knox still doesn't like it but can see how much they love each other and Clay treats his sister.
We also get a bonus of Dylan and Aurara's baby being born.
Thank you S. L Sterling for anothe amazing book

[Lou Li Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 3 in the Vancouver Dominators series gives us Clay and Peyton. Clay is the handsome playboy goalie, always out for a good time. He’s the joker of the pack but hides his own trauma. Peyton is the little sister to Knox who we met in the last book, it is standalone, but helpful if you read book 2 as those characters feature heavily in here too.
A little bit in love with Clay, he’s got such a level head, I’m sure he’s emotionally mature beyond his years, with only a slight wobble, but given the circumstances, acceptable! Forbidden romance, brothers best friends and a pretty intense chemistry and connection between the tow, they are fiery. Page turner that I smashed in just one sitting. Another great read from S.L Sterling.

I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own

[Kari Hansen · Rating 4 out of 5]

When it comes to romance Peyton hasn’t always made the best choices when it comes to the men in her life and her current relationship is no different. When Clay steps in when she needs someone the most the sparks fly however the relationship they both have with her brother isn’t going to make it easy.

Clay not only plays on the same hockey team as Peyton’s brother, but they are friends as well. He is a protector so when he sees Peyton in a difficult situation he doesn’t hesitate to step in but they are both about to find out that their night together was not an ending but a beginning.

Peyton has begun to lose hope that love will ever be part of her future but as her and Clay’s lives become entwined she realizes that despite appearances to the contrary Clay is a man that any woman would be lucky to have.

[Sahar's Honest Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sizzling Hockey Romance with a Side of Forbidden Love
There’s an unspoken rule: don’t hook up with your best friend’s sister. And by that logic, a woman probably shouldn’t fall for her brother’s best friend either. Clay and Peyton know the rule—but when emotions run high and chemistry ignites, rules are the first thing to go.
Peyton’s life is spiraling—bad dates, reckless choices, and even a brush with shoplifting. When Clay stumbles across her at a bar fending off a sleazy guy, he steps in. Neither of them expects that one encounter to change everything. As sparks fly, secrets brew—and when Peyton’s brother finds out what’s going on, all bets are off. Cue the drama, the passion, and the chaos.
If you're into steamy, emotional hockey romances with forbidden love and a dash of family tension, this one’s a must-read.

[Renee Entress · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 star

The story has laughs, secrets, pain, and heartbreak.

If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Inside the Penalty Box (Vancouver Dominators #1)
Ten Minute Misconduct (Vancouver Dominators #2)

This is Peyton and Clay’s story. He is her brother’s teammate. Totally off limits. He stepped in to help her when someone was bothering her. One thing leads to another, and they end up having a great night. Now months later he knows he about to get it. After all she has been keeping secrets, and he is about to find out. His friend just might kill him for touching her sister but in the end, he will be with the one he has been thinking about since they had the one night together. Can they build a future off of that one night?

I recommend this book.

[Suzanne Normandeau Legault · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romance and unexpected love continues to overpower the Vancouver Dominators players as Clay Harris goalie for the team and a ladies man finds himself completely absorbed by a woman he was not prepared for. Peyton, who happens to be in an abusive relationship and sister to one of the players Knox is once again faced with challenges that require interventions from her brother. However, he made her promise never to get involved with one of his teammates. That is one promise she’s unable to keep as she has always been attracted to Clay and when he comes to her rescue in a bar , all bets are off. A full blown chemistry is reciprocated , a one-night is not enough to keep them apart . A most recommended read!

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in the Vancouver Dominators series and this is the story of Peyton and the playboy goalie of the team, Clay. You can enjoy this story as a standalone, however we have been introduced to these characters in the previous books so I highly recommend that you start at the beginning of this series to fully understand the dynamics. This is an enjoyable hockey romance filled with fabulous characters, a player who finds himself falling for his teammates younger sister, a surprise pregnancy, great banter between the team players, especially their group chats that will have you laughing out loud, sizzling chemistry, tension and drama. This is a great hockey series and I can't wait to see what happens next!!!

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in this amazing series and this is Clay and Peyton’s story.
Clay is the goalkeeper for a hockey team, while Peyton who has had a tough life, and she is his teammates younger sister. Clay comes to Peyton’s rescue in a bar when a guy is hitting on her, and one thing leads to another, with a little surprise thrown into the mix.
This is ab easy to read, emotionally charged story, with family, friendships, angst, drama, heartbreak, engaging and realistic characters, trust, humor, witty banter, making choices, surprises, twists and turns, and love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, and heartwarming addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Lorie · Rating 5 out of 5]

From Heartache to Love
Bad boys and the women who chase them! Well Peyton and her mother Reese seem to fall into this group and they refuse to listen to reason. When big brother Knox tries to force some sense into both of them it backfires and also sends his personal life into a spin. Throw in that the hockey season is going into finals and emotions are running high. Can Peyton grow to the point of maturity that has her leading a life that’s positive and productive or will she allow a blessing to be pushed aside? Can Knox and Clay be big boys or will they continue to tear each other (and themselves) apart? A ❤️ warming story that will leave you aggravated, laughing and smiling within the matter of a chapter.

[Brandy Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peyton and Clay! I saw something happening between them when the flashback is what started the book. When she started to like things that she normally didn't like I was like she has to be pregnant. Low and behold I was right, now how her brother took the news I was expecting that reaction. How she finally stood up to Knox and allowed Clay to be there for her was amazing. Watching both the growth in Peyton and Clay was amazing. When she was introduced in Lorelai and Knox's story I knew there had to be more to her story and wanted to know more of her backstory and what led to her mistakes and decisions. The same with how when Clay protected Knox at the wedding in Hawaii. S. L. Sterling did it again with another amazing book and story.

[Rita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clay is the goalie for the Vancouver Dominators and friends with Knox. He has a reputation as the playboy of the team. Knox's sister, Peyton has a terrible track record with men. When Clay steps in to help Peyton at a bar, sparks ignite between them. Neither can resist the chemistry between them but Peyton has promised Knox never to date any of his team and Clay knows his friend's sister is definitely off limits. However, as they try to keep their relationship secret tempers fly when Knox finds out what has been going on. But Clay and Peyton eventually work out a way to have a future together and convince Knox to accept it. Another great read in this series.

[Lilian · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5⭐️
Surprise baby romances can either be or a hit or miss for me … and this one was a hit! I loved the story of how Peyton and Clay started, knowing that even right from the beginning that he was her safe place, and someone she could rely on in times of trouble.

The distance (both time and physically) allowed them both to discover that their relationship goes beyond those nights they spent together. My favourite scene was definitely the one when Clay just held her, and she broke down realising that she has finally found a good man, after suffering through all the douchebags in her past.

[Suzanne Benson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peyton and her mother are both terrible at finding a good man. Her half brother Knox is a hockey player and does his best looking out for them, but he lives in Vancouver B.C. and they live in Vermont.
Clay is also a hockey player who happens to be Knox's friend and warned by Knox to stay away from his sister and he warned his sister to not get involved with any of his teammates. So you know it's going to happen at some point.
S. L. Sterling is a great story teller. Her characters are fun and engaging. This group of friends are tightly knit, even when pissed off. They will always show up no matter what.

[Liberty Munson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another page turner in this spicy hockey romance series that adds more depth and nuance to this universe. Peyton is the troubled sister of Knox who finds her way through the patience and respect of Clay, who shows her that nontoxic relationships are possible. The relationship between brother and sister creates the tension in the story as a surprise pregnancy is discovered.

While this could be considered a standalone, I highly recommend reading the other stories in the series first for maximum enjoyment.

[K Webz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having met these characters in the previous books, I was eager for Peyton and Clay’s story. She has been in a toxic relationship and her brother, Knox, has been trying to get her out of it. Clay comes to her rescue when a guy won’t leave her alone at a bar.

The chemistry between them is off the charts. And while Clay came across as a player, Peyton soon realizes that is all an image. He is sweet and falls for Peyton. She was immature at times but I felt she went through a lot of growth in this story.