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Lakes Hockey #2
Strong and Wild
Freya
Things are looking up for me in my new Minnesota home. My bestie’s husband hooked me up with a great apartment above the hockey bar where I currently work, and I’ve got a great side gig bringing in plenty of cash to help fund my patisserie cocktail lounge. Life is sweet. My new neighbor, on the other hand, is not.
When he reveals his true self, I hate what I find. Until more of him unravels, proving we have more in common than I realized, and I don’t mean we both enjoy rock climbing or outdoor concerts. No, we have the good stuff—shared trauma. The only difference is I came out on the other side, and he’s still fighting his demons. I promised myself I’d never let that negativity back into my life again, but my heart tells me Rhys is worth it. However, this time I’ll hold my ground and protect myself.
Rhys
Hockey comes first. Always has, always will. Women aren’t going to be a distraction for me in my rookie year, where every single game feels like a try-out. I’ve got a one-year contract, 365 days to prove to them I’m worth the investment—which is why I need to stay far away from my neighbor across the hall. She thinks we’re strangers, but we know each other quite well–-and I plan on keeping it that way.
Unfortunately, she’s impossible to ignore. She’s everywhere. Across the hall, on my computer screen, working at the bar where my team hangs out. Freya is like a loose thread that I can’t stop tugging. Toying with her is fun. Then one night, she steps in to do a favor for me, and all my defenses get shot to hell. She does something I wouldn’t ask of anyone, and she does it without thinking twice because she’s been in my shoes before. Now I’m showing her the real me, but it might not be enough for her.
Things are looking up for me in my new Minnesota home. My bestie’s husband hooked me up with a great apartment above the hockey bar where I currently work, and I’ve got a great side gig bringing in plenty of cash to help fund my patisserie cocktail lounge. Life is sweet. My new neighbor, on the other hand, is not.
When he reveals his true self, I hate what I find. Until more of him unravels, proving we have more in common than I realized, and I don’t mean we both enjoy rock climbing or outdoor concerts. No, we have the good stuff—shared trauma. The only difference is I came out on the other side, and he’s still fighting his demons. I promised myself I’d never let that negativity back into my life again, but my heart tells me Rhys is worth it. However, this time I’ll hold my ground and protect myself.
Rhys
Hockey comes first. Always has, always will. Women aren’t going to be a distraction for me in my rookie year, where every single game feels like a try-out. I’ve got a one-year contract, 365 days to prove to them I’m worth the investment—which is why I need to stay far away from my neighbor across the hall. She thinks we’re strangers, but we know each other quite well–-and I plan on keeping it that way.
Unfortunately, she’s impossible to ignore. She’s everywhere. Across the hall, on my computer screen, working at the bar where my team hangs out. Freya is like a loose thread that I can’t stop tugging. Toying with her is fun. Then one night, she steps in to do a favor for me, and all my defenses get shot to hell. She does something I wouldn’t ask of anyone, and she does it without thinking twice because she’s been in my shoes before. Now I’m showing her the real me, but it might not be enough for her.
350 pages, Paperback
First published June 12, 2023
2732 people are currently reading
20120 people want to read
About the author
Sloane St. James
7 books3,621 followersSloane St. James began writing in 2022, it combines two of her favorite things, books and getting plowed. She enjoys writing strong, witty females and the dirty-talking men that love them--with a little suspense tossed in wherever she can. As an avid hockey fan, her Lakes Hockey series was a natural place to start and debuted in March 2023.
When she's not writing, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and, of course, reading romance.
When she's not writing, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and, of course, reading romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,870 reviews
February 25, 2024
2.5 stars. It was going so well until the hero opened his mouth and called the heroine a few words and hurt her so bad and didn’t grovel…
I liked the plot and the heroine was feisty and fun. But y’all if a man ever said those things to be I’d never speak to him again 🤺🤺🤺
I liked the plot and the heroine was feisty and fun. But y’all if a man ever said those things to be I’d never speak to him again 🤺🤺🤺
August 4, 2025
Freya and Rhys? 🫦 APPROVED ✅
__
Freya and Rhys?? feels like I'm reading ACOTAR in a contemporary world 😭 but I'll take this hot cover and men named Rhys any day 😫
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Freya and Rhys?? feels like I'm reading ACOTAR in a contemporary world 😭 but I'll take this hot cover and men named Rhys any day 😫
July 10, 2023
Yes hi hello I’m obsessed with this book. I read 4 hockey romances in a row and this is easily tied for first place with Behind the Net.
Mickey is trying to save money for her dream by bartending and having a only-fans-esque side gig. And Rhys is falling head over heels for her online persona. After moving into a new apartment and joining a nhl hockey team, he pieces together that his beautiful neighbor is the girl online that he’s been chatting to for MONTHS. But can he tell her he knows without fudging it up 👀
I can’t even begin to explain how much I loved this book. It’s fast paced, has so much angst and depth, and Rhys!!!! His mouth? I’m still thinking about it. Enemies to lovers done in contemporary romance can be a hit or a miss for me. But this one?! Perfection. The groveling?! SIR.
Pls pls pick this book up. I loved it so much.
Read if you like
✨ enemies to lovers
✨ angsty nhl hockey romance
✨ praise & degradation
✨ pleasure dom vibes
✨ sassy fmcs
✨ grumpy mmcs
✨ forced proximity
Mickey is trying to save money for her dream by bartending and having a only-fans-esque side gig. And Rhys is falling head over heels for her online persona. After moving into a new apartment and joining a nhl hockey team, he pieces together that his beautiful neighbor is the girl online that he’s been chatting to for MONTHS. But can he tell her he knows without fudging it up 👀
I can’t even begin to explain how much I loved this book. It’s fast paced, has so much angst and depth, and Rhys!!!! His mouth? I’m still thinking about it. Enemies to lovers done in contemporary romance can be a hit or a miss for me. But this one?! Perfection. The groveling?! SIR.
Pls pls pick this book up. I loved it so much.
Read if you like
✨ enemies to lovers
✨ angsty nhl hockey romance
✨ praise & degradation
✨ pleasure dom vibes
✨ sassy fmcs
✨ grumpy mmcs
✨ forced proximity
August 31, 2024
3.8⭐️ 3🌶️
Spicy and lots of tension but I’m not obsessed with this series yet, intrigued to keep reading!
Spicy and lots of tension but I’m not obsessed with this series yet, intrigued to keep reading!
June 20, 2025
“Before I ever saw your face, I knew we had something. There was a spark from the beginning. I couldn’t stay away from you, no one has ever held my fascination like you do. I needed more. And I’m so glad I did. You entered my life like a fireball. The more I tried to resist it, the bigger it grew. Until one night you were standing in front of me, and when I looked in your eyes, I knew instantly you were everything I needed. You consumed me. Our love is a fire, Freya. It’s strong and wild, and knows no bounds.”
August 20, 2023
The MMC wasn't even likable? His internal monologues about what he really thought about her work was vile. She deserved so much better than this little insecure boy. Yay! he spent a lot of money on her, I guess? But that doesn't excuse his disrespect. I smell divorce in their future.
November 8, 2025
Another great one!
Emotional, sexy, and a touch of fun amd angst.
4 Stars
4 on the spice scale
Emotional, sexy, and a touch of fun amd angst.
4 Stars
4 on the spice scale
June 2, 2024
3.75
Another read that I found on TikTok but this was one was actually decent.
It's a little bit trashy, with some very well-written smut - Rhys is a dirty-talking Dom - and an easy-to-follow plot.
I loved our FMC Freya, a cam girl who has a major crush on one of her subscribers. Lucky for her, said subscriber is her new neighbour, a NHL rookie and terrible tipper! Rhys was a grumpy character which I love.
Overall, I fun palate cleanser with good smut!
Another read that I found on TikTok but this was one was actually decent.
It's a little bit trashy, with some very well-written smut - Rhys is a dirty-talking Dom - and an easy-to-follow plot.
I loved our FMC Freya, a cam girl who has a major crush on one of her subscribers. Lucky for her, said subscriber is her new neighbour, a NHL rookie and terrible tipper! Rhys was a grumpy character which I love.
Overall, I fun palate cleanser with good smut!
April 3, 2025
rating: 2.5 ⭐️
why is the author so fond of writing red flags 😭😭
the third act break up in this book was so unwarranted and so infuriating. the mmc slut shames the fmc to push her away bro i don’t even care if u don’t mean it thats just NOT ITTTT and worse of all, she takes him back willingly with no hesitation 👊👊
book was hella addicting at the start though as with all the other books in the series but i kinda lost interest halfway because i didn’t care about mmc’s sister and her drug addiction… oh and this was very much instaLUST, i didn’t feel the initial excitement for them once they got together. felt a lot like empty words exchanged between each other, i just dont feel the love 🥴
why is the author so fond of writing red flags 😭😭
the third act break up in this book was so unwarranted and so infuriating. the mmc slut shames the fmc to push her away bro i don’t even care if u don’t mean it thats just NOT ITTTT and worse of all, she takes him back willingly with no hesitation 👊👊
book was hella addicting at the start though as with all the other books in the series but i kinda lost interest halfway because i didn’t care about mmc’s sister and her drug addiction… oh and this was very much instaLUST, i didn’t feel the initial excitement for them once they got together. felt a lot like empty words exchanged between each other, i just dont feel the love 🥴
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 7, 2024
I loved this book so much.
Okay but wait, I am obsessed with Freya, what a feisty FMC!
Also Rhys..... HOT. I loveddddd his control over Freya, turning her from a 'hellcat' into a puddle with one filthy comment after the next. I loved their story.
"Where's my apology?"
"I'm sorry"
"Oh, yeah? Why don't you spread your legs and show me how fucking sorry you are." 🫠
DEAD. GONE. BYE.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Okay but wait, I am obsessed with Freya, what a feisty FMC!
Also Rhys..... HOT. I loveddddd his control over Freya, turning her from a 'hellcat' into a puddle with one filthy comment after the next. I loved their story.
"Where's my apology?"
"I'm sorry"
"Oh, yeah? Why don't you spread your legs and show me how fucking sorry you are." 🫠
DEAD. GONE. BYE.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
November 3, 2025
▹TL;DR Review: Very spicy book with a slightly weaker plot than book 1. This is second in the Lakes Hockey
▹My ⭐ Rating: ★★★.25 ouf ot 5
▹Format: 📱 eReader
─────────────────────────
○★○ What to Expect from This Book: ○★○
– About: Micky has just moved to Minneapolis to be close to her best friend, Birdy. She lands an apartment above a hockey bar while working toward her dream of opening a patisserie-cocktail lounge. Across the hall lives Rhys, a rookie pro hockey player on a one-year contract who won’t allow himself distractions—especially not the sexy neighbor he already knows from his laptop screen. As secrets, shared trauma, and mutual attraction surface, forced proximity, and heated tension take over.
– FMC: Freya “Micky” (aka “Hellcat” or “Queen of Tarts”). Ambitious, bold, determined to follow her dream. Healing from a past relationship. Open to more than just “casual” but not actively searching. Likes baking naked on webcam for those dolla-dolla bills, y’all.
– MMC: Rhys (aka “Hat Trick Swayze”). 24-year-old new transfer rookie on the Minnesota Lakes hockey team. Not looking for any kind of relationship. Does not trust puck bunnies. Satisfied by his “relationship” with his cam girl. Has a sister with addiction issues.
– Location: Minneapolis, MN
– POV: Dual first-person
– Spice: 10-12 open-door explicit spicy scenes
– Tropes: enemies to lovers, forced proximity (neighbors), sports romance (hockey), web cam girl, new city/new start
– Content warning: loving someone with a drug addiction, gross men who think they can touch whatever they want, degradation mixed with praise kink
– Representation: nothing noteworthy
─────────────────────────
↻ ◁ || ▷ ↺ 1:00 ──ㅇ────── 4:12
Now Playing: Wildest Dream (Taylor’s Version) by Taylor Swift
─────────────────────────
★○ If You Like the Following, You Might Like This Book ○★
➼ A SPICY romance that overwhelms the subplot
➼ Putting on ONLY your apron, turning down the heat, and making French macarons for your online subscribers
─────────────────────────
⍟»This or That«⍟
Character Driven—————✧——————Plot Driven
Fast Burn——✧—————————Slow Burn
Sweet—————————✧——Spicy
Light/Fluffy———————✧————Heavy/Emotional
─────────────────────────
🎯 My Thoughts:
This wasn’t as big of a hit with me as book 1 was, but I still enjoyed the journey. It felt a lot more spice-forward than book 1, which balanced the spice with an intriguing subplot. There was subplot here, don’t get me wrong, but it felt minor in comparison.
Part of this might be that I do not like the “I love an addict” storyline when it comes to romance. This was adjacent (neither of the MCs were addicts themselves), but I just have too many personal issues that I find this micro-trope difficult.
I also had to laugh a bit at the “topping a top”, which I’d never heard before. I think maybe power dynamics in the bedroom is something that makes me uncomfortable reading. So if that’s something you do like in spicy romance, then you might like this more than I did.
ONE THING: I really did not like this MMC. He was...not it for me.
I’m still very excited to continue this series and the spin-off Coach Sully. I feel like the author’s writing was a little better in this one, since the first was her debut.
_____________________
How I’ve Rated the Series (so far):
• Before We Came: 3.75★
• Strong and Wild: 3.25★
▹My ⭐ Rating: ★★★.25 ouf ot 5
▹Format: 📱 eReader
─────────────────────────
○★○ What to Expect from This Book: ○★○
– About: Micky has just moved to Minneapolis to be close to her best friend, Birdy. She lands an apartment above a hockey bar while working toward her dream of opening a patisserie-cocktail lounge. Across the hall lives Rhys, a rookie pro hockey player on a one-year contract who won’t allow himself distractions—especially not the sexy neighbor he already knows from his laptop screen. As secrets, shared trauma, and mutual attraction surface, forced proximity, and heated tension take over.
– FMC: Freya “Micky” (aka “Hellcat” or “Queen of Tarts”). Ambitious, bold, determined to follow her dream. Healing from a past relationship. Open to more than just “casual” but not actively searching. Likes baking naked on webcam for those dolla-dolla bills, y’all.
– MMC: Rhys (aka “Hat Trick Swayze”). 24-year-old new transfer rookie on the Minnesota Lakes hockey team. Not looking for any kind of relationship. Does not trust puck bunnies. Satisfied by his “relationship” with his cam girl. Has a sister with addiction issues.
– Location: Minneapolis, MN
– POV: Dual first-person
– Spice: 10-12 open-door explicit spicy scenes
– Tropes: enemies to lovers, forced proximity (neighbors), sports romance (hockey), web cam girl, new city/new start
– Content warning: loving someone with a drug addiction, gross men who think they can touch whatever they want, degradation mixed with praise kink
– Representation: nothing noteworthy
─────────────────────────
↻ ◁ || ▷ ↺ 1:00 ──ㅇ────── 4:12
Now Playing: Wildest Dream (Taylor’s Version) by Taylor Swift
╰┈➤ ❝He’s so tall and handsome as hell; He’s so bad but he does it so well.❞
─────────────────────────
★○ If You Like the Following, You Might Like This Book ○★
➼ A SPICY romance that overwhelms the subplot
➼ Putting on ONLY your apron, turning down the heat, and making French macarons for your online subscribers
─────────────────────────
⍟»This or That«⍟
Character Driven—————✧——————Plot Driven
Fast Burn——✧—————————Slow Burn
Sweet—————————✧——Spicy
Light/Fluffy———————✧————Heavy/Emotional
─────────────────────────
🎯 My Thoughts:
This wasn’t as big of a hit with me as book 1 was, but I still enjoyed the journey. It felt a lot more spice-forward than book 1, which balanced the spice with an intriguing subplot. There was subplot here, don’t get me wrong, but it felt minor in comparison.
Part of this might be that I do not like the “I love an addict” storyline when it comes to romance. This was adjacent (neither of the MCs were addicts themselves), but I just have too many personal issues that I find this micro-trope difficult.
I also had to laugh a bit at the “topping a top”, which I’d never heard before. I think maybe power dynamics in the bedroom is something that makes me uncomfortable reading. So if that’s something you do like in spicy romance, then you might like this more than I did.
ONE THING: I really did not like this MMC. He was...not it for me.
I’m still very excited to continue this series and the spin-off Coach Sully. I feel like the author’s writing was a little better in this one, since the first was her debut.
_____________________
How I’ve Rated the Series (so far):
• Before We Came: 3.75★
• Strong and Wild: 3.25★
July 9, 2024
This audiobook was incredible! I think I found a new favorite male narrator. 🥰 Full review to come.
February 19, 2025
as disrespectfully as possible- fuck this book. at around the 85% mark, the MMC called the FMC a whore and told her that all she was good for was selling her body. saying something like that so far into the book told me that there was no way there would be a satisfying amount of grovel, and i was right. the FMC forgave the MMC before he even apologized. he essentially fucking ghosted her, and she sat around hoping he hadn’t broken up with her. prior to this, the FMC has been likeable and strong, so turning her into a fucking doormat and the MMC’s punching bag was certainly a choice. what a waste of time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 2, 2025
3/5✨️ 4/5🌶
The men in this series are just not for me.
The men in this series are just not for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2025
Audiobook update: I was looking for a book where the MMC likes to eat 🍽️ and who better than Rhys Kucera who likes to have his meals at the effing table?! God, I missed these two. Both narrators did a great job of bringing these two strong personalities to life. Rhys + Freya are power couples goals and I still love them both as individuals and together.
p.s. listening to Raleigh dip out early in the epilogue equaled instant rage. Didn’t realize on the first read that’s her go to move. But now I know 😒
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Phenomenal. Enemies to lovers perfection. I loved Freya for her (I don’t think of her as Micky). I loved Rhys for him. And I loved them together. These two are what my book dreams are made of! This book was filled with some of the greatest spice I’ve ever read as well. It was a beautiful Dom/Sub relationship and I ate it up every single time.
Now let’s talk about the elephant in the room. Anna. I appreciate how well Sloane handled the sensitive topic of addiction. But did I want one of two things to happen to resolve the issue? Yes. I didn’t care which of the two was the outcome, I just wanted some resolution to a terrible situation for them all. The vulnerability Freya showed to Rhys when explaining her past was heart wrenching. And to think we find out those details AFTER she helped Anna. What a wonderful person Freya is.
I loved the conclusion and the HEA these two amazing characters deserved. Also, I’d love to visit a real life Sugar & Ice!
p.s. listening to Raleigh dip out early in the epilogue equaled instant rage. Didn’t realize on the first read that’s her go to move. But now I know 😒
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Phenomenal. Enemies to lovers perfection. I loved Freya for her (I don’t think of her as Micky). I loved Rhys for him. And I loved them together. These two are what my book dreams are made of! This book was filled with some of the greatest spice I’ve ever read as well. It was a beautiful Dom/Sub relationship and I ate it up every single time.
Now let’s talk about the elephant in the room. Anna. I appreciate how well Sloane handled the sensitive topic of addiction. But did I want one of two things to happen to resolve the issue? Yes. I didn’t care which of the two was the outcome, I just wanted some resolution to a terrible situation for them all. The vulnerability Freya showed to Rhys when explaining her past was heart wrenching. And to think we find out those details AFTER she helped Anna. What a wonderful person Freya is.
I loved the conclusion and the HEA these two amazing characters deserved. Also, I’d love to visit a real life Sugar & Ice!
January 1, 2024
Loved it!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: enemies to lovers
Angst: 😱😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Wow - this book was intense! Ms St. James continues not to shy away from heavy topics, but manages to do it with care. I absolutely loved Rhys and Freya's hate to lovers. Their passionate natures were just kindling to the fire that is their attraction. Their shared trauma set them up for some failures, but ultimately their success as well. Wonderful storytelling with tons of laugh out loud moments from their snark. Loved Freya, her huge personality and giving heart ❤. I occasionally struggled with Rhys, but ultimately forgave his fumbles. Loving this series! I read book 3 first, so now I'm just waiting on the release of 4 - can't wait!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: enemies to lovers
Angst: 😱😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Wow - this book was intense! Ms St. James continues not to shy away from heavy topics, but manages to do it with care. I absolutely loved Rhys and Freya's hate to lovers. Their passionate natures were just kindling to the fire that is their attraction. Their shared trauma set them up for some failures, but ultimately their success as well. Wonderful storytelling with tons of laugh out loud moments from their snark. Loved Freya, her huge personality and giving heart ❤. I occasionally struggled with Rhys, but ultimately forgave his fumbles. Loving this series! I read book 3 first, so now I'm just waiting on the release of 4 - can't wait!
September 15, 2023
5/5⭐️
4/5 🌶️
Tropes:
- Sports Romance 🏒
- Enemies to Lovers
- Close Proximity
- Praise & Degradation
- Light BDSM
- Hand Necklaces
Sloane St. James DID IT AGAIN!!! Enemies to Lovers is my favorite trope of all time and she killed it!!! Sloane knows how to keep me wanting more and the spice in this book🥵
Strong and Wild is book #2 in the Lakes Hockey Series following Rhys & Freya (Micky). Rhys is a rookie on the Lakes professional hockey team. He only is focused is on hockey so at the end of his rookie year, he will hopefully be offered an extension on this contract. He signs up for a Followers account which is kind of like only fans! The only account he follows is Queen of Tarts, she bakes named or nearly naked during her live streams. They have been talking for awhile on their live streams and private chats, but that last thing Rhys expected was to find out that his new obsession over Queen of Tarts is his new neighbor Mickey across the hall. He can’t seem to stay away from her.
Sloane is a new auto buy/read author for me!! Her writing is SOOO GOOD. I want more and more. I can’t wait to see what she has in store for the rest of this series. I love Rhys & Micky so much. Their chemistry & banter was everything I needed. The smut in this book was on the next level. I was hot and bothered. Rhys has a dirty mouth😉If you love praise and degradation & hand necklaces, this book is for you.
Check your trigger warnings for this book, there are some heavy topics talked about!
4/5 🌶️
Tropes:
- Sports Romance 🏒
- Enemies to Lovers
- Close Proximity
- Praise & Degradation
- Light BDSM
- Hand Necklaces
Sloane St. James DID IT AGAIN!!! Enemies to Lovers is my favorite trope of all time and she killed it!!! Sloane knows how to keep me wanting more and the spice in this book🥵
Strong and Wild is book #2 in the Lakes Hockey Series following Rhys & Freya (Micky). Rhys is a rookie on the Lakes professional hockey team. He only is focused is on hockey so at the end of his rookie year, he will hopefully be offered an extension on this contract. He signs up for a Followers account which is kind of like only fans! The only account he follows is Queen of Tarts, she bakes named or nearly naked during her live streams. They have been talking for awhile on their live streams and private chats, but that last thing Rhys expected was to find out that his new obsession over Queen of Tarts is his new neighbor Mickey across the hall. He can’t seem to stay away from her.
Sloane is a new auto buy/read author for me!! Her writing is SOOO GOOD. I want more and more. I can’t wait to see what she has in store for the rest of this series. I love Rhys & Micky so much. Their chemistry & banter was everything I needed. The smut in this book was on the next level. I was hot and bothered. Rhys has a dirty mouth😉If you love praise and degradation & hand necklaces, this book is for you.
Check your trigger warnings for this book, there are some heavy topics talked about!
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July 10, 2024
UPDATED REVIEW FOR ALC: Dear Lord, Alex Kydd & Savannah Thomas as INCREDIBLE as Rhys & Freya! This may be one of the hottest audios I’ve ever listened to! I already adored this book, but PHEW! Add this audio & my obsession is unreal now! SO SO GOOD!
MICKEY & RHYS!!! HOLY SHIT🥵🔥
I LOVED Mickey so much! One of my favorite female characters of all time! She was funny af, tough as hell with a soft side, took no shit, did whatever it took to achieve her dreams with zero guilt, & knew how to hold her boundaries!👏🏼
Rhys, omg RHYS. Tough, broody, & aloof at first but bless it when he went after what he wanted with Mickey. Consent king while being kinky & possessive as hell. Everytime he used “Freya girl”, I melted!! Plus that sweet & protective side he had for those he loves. I just wanted to hug him through all the mess with his sister.
If you can’t tell, I frikkin’ loved this & 100% recommend adding to your TBR! Sloane St. James has quickly moved up my favorite authors list, she does hockey romance SO WELL!
MICKEY & RHYS!!! HOLY SHIT🥵🔥
I LOVED Mickey so much! One of my favorite female characters of all time! She was funny af, tough as hell with a soft side, took no shit, did whatever it took to achieve her dreams with zero guilt, & knew how to hold her boundaries!👏🏼
Rhys, omg RHYS. Tough, broody, & aloof at first but bless it when he went after what he wanted with Mickey. Consent king while being kinky & possessive as hell. Everytime he used “Freya girl”, I melted!! Plus that sweet & protective side he had for those he loves. I just wanted to hug him through all the mess with his sister.
If you can’t tell, I frikkin’ loved this & 100% recommend adding to your TBR! Sloane St. James has quickly moved up my favorite authors list, she does hockey romance SO WELL!
March 25, 2024
ANOTHAAAA ONE
5⭐️/4🌶️
Okay, I’m obsessed with Micky. I loved her in Before We Came but I loved her even more in here. You really get to see more of her back story and why she’s the strong, independent woman she is in S&W. Rhys absolutely simped out for Micky, despite his best efforts to keep distance and not let himself get distracted.
THEIR CHEMISTRY? THEIR SEXUAL TENSION? wooooffff 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵 This was one of the spiciest books I’ve read in a HOT MINUTE. It was also my first experience with BDSM and I ain’t mad about it 👀
And, once again, Sloane hooked me from the very beginning and made it impossible for me to put down. And always check your trigger warnings before reading just because there are darker topics that might hit a bit too close to home for some. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed reading about these two and I am absolutely devouring this series.
ONTO THE NEXT ONE 🫡
5⭐️/4🌶️
Okay, I’m obsessed with Micky. I loved her in Before We Came but I loved her even more in here. You really get to see more of her back story and why she’s the strong, independent woman she is in S&W. Rhys absolutely simped out for Micky, despite his best efforts to keep distance and not let himself get distracted.
THEIR CHEMISTRY? THEIR SEXUAL TENSION? wooooffff 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵 This was one of the spiciest books I’ve read in a HOT MINUTE. It was also my first experience with BDSM and I ain’t mad about it 👀
And, once again, Sloane hooked me from the very beginning and made it impossible for me to put down. And always check your trigger warnings before reading just because there are darker topics that might hit a bit too close to home for some. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed reading about these two and I am absolutely devouring this series.
ONTO THE NEXT ONE 🫡
December 14, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Oh my goodness this book absolutely wrecked me in the best way. If you love romances that put you in the trenches with the characters as they work through deep trauma pain and healing this one is for you.
I was fully emotionally invested from start to finish. There was a moment where I was literally crying not because I was sad but because I was so happy watching these two find safety understanding and love in each other. Their connection felt raw earned and incredibly real.
This story doesn’t shy away from heavy topics so definitely check the content warnings but Sloan St. James handles everything with so much care and intention. As book two in the series it somehow managed to hit just as hard if not harder than the first. Another easy five star read.
And yes it’s 11 30 at night and I’m immediately diving into book three because there is absolutely no way I’m stopping now 💛📚
Oh my goodness this book absolutely wrecked me in the best way. If you love romances that put you in the trenches with the characters as they work through deep trauma pain and healing this one is for you.
I was fully emotionally invested from start to finish. There was a moment where I was literally crying not because I was sad but because I was so happy watching these two find safety understanding and love in each other. Their connection felt raw earned and incredibly real.
This story doesn’t shy away from heavy topics so definitely check the content warnings but Sloan St. James handles everything with so much care and intention. As book two in the series it somehow managed to hit just as hard if not harder than the first. Another easy five star read.
And yes it’s 11 30 at night and I’m immediately diving into book three because there is absolutely no way I’m stopping now 💛📚
June 13, 2023
When a book starts off with a dedication like this "For those who think praise and degradation go together like anal sex and aftercare. This one’s for you." I knew I was in for a good time!
If you haven't read Before We Came I suggest reading it first. It's about Birdie and Lonan and Strong and Wild is about Freya/Micky, Birdie's bestie and Rhys, who is teammates with Lonan. Plus, Before We Came is an amazing book!
If you love...
🏒 Hockey
🏒 Close Proximity
🏒 Enemies to Lovers
🏒 Degradation and Praise
🏒 Hand Necklaces
🏒 Spitting
🏒 Aftercare
🏒 Light BDSM
🏒 Peach Play
Then this book is definitely for you!
I absolutely loooooved Micky! She is strong, independent, fierce, and sassy. I also love a sex positive woman! There was no shame in what she needed to do to accomplish her goals. She has always been the dominant one in a relationship/situationship and when Rhys comes into the picture, she has to learn how to let go of that control to feed his dominant side. I love a good brat and Micky was so good at it 😜
Rhys... where do I start with this man?! This man and his audacity 😳
I walk away from him and check on my other patrons. When I glance over, he’s looking down at the bartop with a sly smirk. He’s pushing my buttons for shits and giggles. He snaps his fingers at me and points in front of him. Like I’m some puppy he’s trying to train. “I’m sorry, did you just snap at me?”“Yeah, you walked away. You’re supposed to serve me.”
Uuuuummmm, excuse me?! I was like, "Oh hell no!" (I put that note attached to the highlight, lol. My jaw dropped!) But quickly, he grew on me. He had this idea of what his life should be like, but Freya broke every rule he had set into place. Their banter and the push and pull between these 2 was top-notch. As much as Rhys gave her, Freya gave it right back, and it was the perfect match. When it came time for them to finally get together, I was a hot mess, y'all. It was hot af!
Rhys has the perfect balance of degradation and praise, passion, and roughness. He taught Freya how to submit to him, and it was hard for her. She often tried to top from the bottom, and he shut that down real quick. Sometimes, he would entertain her inner brat, and I loved it. Chapter's 29, 30, and 31 will live rent-free in my brain for the rest of my life. The spice is so, so good!!!
There is so much I love about this book. I could write 20 more paragraphs about all the ways I am obsessed, but instead of doing that... just trust me and read this series! I can't wait for Lakes Hockey #3!
Sloane is such an amazing writer. I think every reader wants to get lost in the book they're reading. Sloane's books pull me in from page 1, and I'm hooked! I was living and breathing this book! She is a one click author for me. If she writes it, I'm reading it!!!
Stars- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
Spice- 🌶🌶🌶🌶
*I was kindly given an ARC by Sloane St. James. This review is 100% my honest opinion.*
⬇️ Some of my favorite quotes ⬇️
My feminism takes a backseat while my kink rides shotgun. LOL, I felt this on such a deep level 😆
“You underestimate how much good little sluts can take.”“It’s not about how much you can take, it’s about how much you can give of yourself. And just so you know, when I call you that, it’s to make you feel sexy. As soon as it stops bringing pleasure— it’s over. Don’t confuse my degradation with disrespect . . . And the side of you that loves being a slut”— I stab my finger in my chest—“ that belongs to me.” 🥵🧎🏼♀️
“You love being my obedient little fucktoy, don’t you?”“Yes,” she moans.🥵
They say if you’re not dating for forever, you’re dating for heartache. But what if I just want to date to get my vagina licked again? #truths
“You better start fucking me.” He barks out a laugh but remains steady. My cheek gets another slap. “Don’t try to top from the bottom, Princess. It’s very unbecoming.” Yes, Sir 🧎🏼♀️
You’re here to give me what I want and do what I say. And right now, you’re going to gag on my cock like a good little slut until I’m done with you.” 🥵
Our love is a fire, Freya. It’s strong and wild, and knows no bounds.” *sigh* 🥰
If you haven't read Before We Came I suggest reading it first. It's about Birdie and Lonan and Strong and Wild is about Freya/Micky, Birdie's bestie and Rhys, who is teammates with Lonan. Plus, Before We Came is an amazing book!
If you love...
🏒 Hockey
🏒 Close Proximity
🏒 Enemies to Lovers
🏒 Degradation and Praise
🏒 Hand Necklaces
🏒 Spitting
🏒 Aftercare
🏒 Light BDSM
🏒 Peach Play
Then this book is definitely for you!
I absolutely loooooved Micky! She is strong, independent, fierce, and sassy. I also love a sex positive woman! There was no shame in what she needed to do to accomplish her goals. She has always been the dominant one in a relationship/situationship and when Rhys comes into the picture, she has to learn how to let go of that control to feed his dominant side. I love a good brat and Micky was so good at it 😜
Rhys... where do I start with this man?! This man and his audacity 😳
I walk away from him and check on my other patrons. When I glance over, he’s looking down at the bartop with a sly smirk. He’s pushing my buttons for shits and giggles. He snaps his fingers at me and points in front of him. Like I’m some puppy he’s trying to train. “I’m sorry, did you just snap at me?”“Yeah, you walked away. You’re supposed to serve me.”
Uuuuummmm, excuse me?! I was like, "Oh hell no!" (I put that note attached to the highlight, lol. My jaw dropped!) But quickly, he grew on me. He had this idea of what his life should be like, but Freya broke every rule he had set into place. Their banter and the push and pull between these 2 was top-notch. As much as Rhys gave her, Freya gave it right back, and it was the perfect match. When it came time for them to finally get together, I was a hot mess, y'all. It was hot af!
Rhys has the perfect balance of degradation and praise, passion, and roughness. He taught Freya how to submit to him, and it was hard for her. She often tried to top from the bottom, and he shut that down real quick. Sometimes, he would entertain her inner brat, and I loved it. Chapter's 29, 30, and 31 will live rent-free in my brain for the rest of my life. The spice is so, so good!!!
There is so much I love about this book. I could write 20 more paragraphs about all the ways I am obsessed, but instead of doing that... just trust me and read this series! I can't wait for Lakes Hockey #3!
Sloane is such an amazing writer. I think every reader wants to get lost in the book they're reading. Sloane's books pull me in from page 1, and I'm hooked! I was living and breathing this book! She is a one click author for me. If she writes it, I'm reading it!!!
Stars- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
Spice- 🌶🌶🌶🌶
*I was kindly given an ARC by Sloane St. James. This review is 100% my honest opinion.*
⬇️ Some of my favorite quotes ⬇️
My feminism takes a backseat while my kink rides shotgun. LOL, I felt this on such a deep level 😆
“You underestimate how much good little sluts can take.”“It’s not about how much you can take, it’s about how much you can give of yourself. And just so you know, when I call you that, it’s to make you feel sexy. As soon as it stops bringing pleasure— it’s over. Don’t confuse my degradation with disrespect . . . And the side of you that loves being a slut”— I stab my finger in my chest—“ that belongs to me.” 🥵🧎🏼♀️
“You love being my obedient little fucktoy, don’t you?”“Yes,” she moans.🥵
They say if you’re not dating for forever, you’re dating for heartache. But what if I just want to date to get my vagina licked again? #truths
“You better start fucking me.” He barks out a laugh but remains steady. My cheek gets another slap. “Don’t try to top from the bottom, Princess. It’s very unbecoming.” Yes, Sir 🧎🏼♀️
You’re here to give me what I want and do what I say. And right now, you’re going to gag on my cock like a good little slut until I’m done with you.” 🥵
Our love is a fire, Freya. It’s strong and wild, and knows no bounds.” *sigh* 🥰
July 13, 2023
Strong & Wild is book #2 in the Lakes Hockey Series. It follows Rhys & Freya (Micky). Rhys is a rookie on the Lakes professional hockey team. Being in his first year, he is solely focused on hockey so at the end of his rookie year, he will hopefully be offered an extension on his contract. Meaning no partying, girls, distractions, etc. He signs up for a Followers account (think Fans Only😉) & the one account he connects with is the ‘Queen of Tarts’. She bakes naked or nearly naked during live streams. After talking via these live streams & private chats for a few months, the last thing Rhys expects to find out is that his newest obsession is actually his next door neighbor. So what happens when he can’t seem to stay away from the girl that was never supposed to be more than an easy way to release the tension?
I have never read anything from this author before but let me tell you, I will 100% be reading more. I already can’t wait to go back & read book #1 from this series. I loved both Rhys & Micky so much. Their banter & chemistry was off the charts. The smut in this book was next level 10/10 😮💨🔥 There were a few scenes where my jaw actually hit the floor. If you love praise & degradation kink, this book is definitely for you!
There are definitely some very heavy topics talked about in this book so definitely check trigger warnings before diving in.
Tropes:
- Sports Romance 🏒
- Close Proximity
- Enemies to Lovers
- Praise & Degradation
- Hand Necklaces
- Light BDSM
5/5⭐️
4/5🌶️
I have never read anything from this author before but let me tell you, I will 100% be reading more. I already can’t wait to go back & read book #1 from this series. I loved both Rhys & Micky so much. Their banter & chemistry was off the charts. The smut in this book was next level 10/10 😮💨🔥 There were a few scenes where my jaw actually hit the floor. If you love praise & degradation kink, this book is definitely for you!
There are definitely some very heavy topics talked about in this book so definitely check trigger warnings before diving in.
Tropes:
- Sports Romance 🏒
- Close Proximity
- Enemies to Lovers
- Praise & Degradation
- Hand Necklaces
- Light BDSM
5/5⭐️
4/5🌶️
January 19, 2024
I kinda feel like all they did was bang. I skimmed a lot bc there were so many. Storyline was good though but I’m more excited to read about Conway and Raleigh after getting some teasers about them!!!
April 14, 2025
Re-read
I enjoyed this more this time around. i can't wait to continue this series!
4.5 stars
I enjoyed this more this time around. i can't wait to continue this series!
4.5 stars
April 6, 2024
4.5/5🌟😍
February 4, 2024
2024 reread: still a 5 star read
SO FUCKING GOOD
It's not everyday I finish a book, and I immediately need to write a review... BUT HERE I AM.
To preface, I saw Strong and Wild appear on my Goodreads feed, and I was like eh... I'll add it to my ever growing hockey romance group. Then I saw it on my TikTok feed, and I think we can all agree TikTok recommendations are hit or miss (with more misses than hits).
For those who think praise and degradation go together like anal sex and aftercare. This one's for you.
Instantly obsessed
For our tropes we have: enemies to lovers, forced proximity, topping a top... I could go on and on. So good.
Trigger warnings: drug addiction
Freya:
- sassy, independent, sometimes a brat
- hard on the outside, soft on the inside
- bar worker at night and OnlyFans type worker at day (and night lol)
- saving money for her future business
- doesn't take any bullshit
Rhys:
- rookie hockey player, which was refreshing. I feel like hockey romances focus on the men being already amazing players, and as readers, we don't get to see their career develop. It was refreshing seeing Rhys go from playing short sprints to making a name for himself.
- complete asshole
- has an OnlyFans type account (see the connection?)
- learning to speak up for himself and set boundaries
I won't give everything away, but I immensely enjoyed Rhys and Freya as a couple and as separate characters. They fit together perfectly and experience some painful trauma related to the trigger warnings.
That being said, I highly recommend Strong and Wild! The steam was 5/5. Make sure you have an extra set of panties, everyone, because MY GOD.
SO FUCKING GOOD
It's not everyday I finish a book, and I immediately need to write a review... BUT HERE I AM.
To preface, I saw Strong and Wild appear on my Goodreads feed, and I was like eh... I'll add it to my ever growing hockey romance group. Then I saw it on my TikTok feed, and I think we can all agree TikTok recommendations are hit or miss (with more misses than hits).
For those who think praise and degradation go together like anal sex and aftercare. This one's for you.
Instantly obsessed
For our tropes we have: enemies to lovers, forced proximity, topping a top... I could go on and on. So good.
Trigger warnings: drug addiction
Freya:
- sassy, independent, sometimes a brat
- hard on the outside, soft on the inside
- bar worker at night and OnlyFans type worker at day (and night lol)
- saving money for her future business
- doesn't take any bullshit
Rhys:
- rookie hockey player, which was refreshing. I feel like hockey romances focus on the men being already amazing players, and as readers, we don't get to see their career develop. It was refreshing seeing Rhys go from playing short sprints to making a name for himself.
- complete asshole
- has an OnlyFans type account (see the connection?)
- learning to speak up for himself and set boundaries
I won't give everything away, but I immensely enjoyed Rhys and Freya as a couple and as separate characters. They fit together perfectly and experience some painful trauma related to the trigger warnings.
That being said, I highly recommend Strong and Wild! The steam was 5/5. Make sure you have an extra set of panties, everyone, because MY GOD.
June 12, 2024
Sloane…respectfully (or disrespectfully…Iykyk) what, in the heavenly Jesus Mary and Joseph did you lace this book with?
I… oh my.
Rhys 🧎🏼♀️🧎🏼♀️🤌🏼
But also… well, oh my lord. I’m speechless. This was, hang on, okay just emojis because Goodreads is stuck in 2006 and we have no GIFs
🫦🤌🏼🧎🏼♀️🥵🔥😩😮💨👌🏼😘🫠
Anyway. Where tf can I get me a Rhys?!
ALSO THE END… oh he is such a sweet baby Angel… but I love when he isn’t 🫦
OH AND CONWAY. You didn’t get that little bit past me girl. I’m so on to you.
IM GOING STRAIGHT IN TO BOOK THREE. YOU CANT STOP ME
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I… oh my.
Rhys 🧎🏼♀️🧎🏼♀️🤌🏼
But also… well, oh my lord. I’m speechless. This was, hang on, okay just emojis because Goodreads is stuck in 2006 and we have no GIFs
🫦🤌🏼🧎🏼♀️🥵🔥😩😮💨👌🏼😘🫠
Anyway. Where tf can I get me a Rhys?!
ALSO THE END… oh he is such a sweet baby Angel… but I love when he isn’t 🫦
OH AND CONWAY. You didn’t get that little bit past me girl. I’m so on to you.
IM GOING STRAIGHT IN TO BOOK THREE. YOU CANT STOP ME
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
April 12, 2025
4.5⭐️
Both Freya and Rhys came out swinging. The ultimate enemies to lovers banter with the secret identity that the anticipation for the big reveal to happen made me NAUSEOUS. I LOVED these two and the way their push and pull transpired. This book had some super high (and smutty) highs and some very low lows.
As someone that has had an inside view to addiction- this book hit really close to home and I felt like was handled in an absolutely beautiful way.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Both Freya and Rhys came out swinging. The ultimate enemies to lovers banter with the secret identity that the anticipation for the big reveal to happen made me NAUSEOUS. I LOVED these two and the way their push and pull transpired. This book had some super high (and smutty) highs and some very low lows.
As someone that has had an inside view to addiction- this book hit really close to home and I felt like was handled in an absolutely beautiful way.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
April 27, 2024
'Get on your fucking knees and show me you deserve my cum' ..gurl the way I wud drop to my god dam mother fucking knees ....id let him meat beat me with that 'registered weapon' 🤤🤤
January 21, 2025
okay okay, really vibing with this authors writing style!!! love plot twists right from the beginning 😍 & of course another hockey romance, my fav.
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