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Empire State Hockey #5
Delayed Penalty
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340 pages, Paperback
First published October 14, 2024
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813 people want to read
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October 15, 2024
As always, my reviews contain spoilers, don't read further if you don't want me spoil the plot for you
H/h dated in college when one day H dumps her out of the blue with no explanations. He thinks she cheated cause his assistant coach who is also om's father tells him that h is with his son now and shows a picture of them hugging. He just blindly believes his coach just from a picture of her hugging a guy.
Doesn't stop to give the benefit of doubt or trust his so called 'the one' love. Nope, dumps her like a hot potato, gets famous and becomes a manwhore. No surprises there ig.
I should hate Harris for breaking up with me just so he could be single when he joined the NHL and fuck all the puck bunnies he wanted.
h is heartbroken after getting dumped with no explanation, goes to date the same om later and he's her fiancé now. 6 years later and a hundred screws with multiple ow later, H suddenly gets a lightbulb moment and realises he wants her. So he fucks her.
Obviously she's with 1 man only with a pathetic sex life - there’s a lot of things that man can’t do: clean up after himself, find my g-spot, give orgasms
God forbid she has good sex or gets off to anyone but H's magical dick.
meanwhile him with the said magical dick - I’ve never had any problems picking up a woman at the bar. Hell, I’ve picked up more than one at a time and never thought twice about it. The thought of being with two women at once is usually enough to get me going, get the blood rushing down to my cock rearing to go
eww...
They bang. No explanation on why his coach lied, no grovel from him, no apologies nothing. And she's a fucking spineless doormat. Girl trades one asshole for another and is absolutely desperate for his dick. He knocks her up, she forgets every shit he's done ???? All is fine in the world after it and its HEA
If 'romance' is him trusting and believing a stranger over her, ditching her without a second thought, then going onto screw all the other women only to come back to h with his std dick, this is the perfect book for you. It's sure as hell not for me 🫡
H/h dated in college when one day H dumps her out of the blue with no explanations. He thinks she cheated cause his assistant coach who is also om's father tells him that h is with his son now and shows a picture of them hugging. He just blindly believes his coach just from a picture of her hugging a guy.
Doesn't stop to give the benefit of doubt or trust his so called 'the one' love. Nope, dumps her like a hot potato, gets famous and becomes a manwhore. No surprises there ig.
I should hate Harris for breaking up with me just so he could be single when he joined the NHL and fuck all the puck bunnies he wanted.
h is heartbroken after getting dumped with no explanation, goes to date the same om later and he's her fiancé now. 6 years later and a hundred screws with multiple ow later, H suddenly gets a lightbulb moment and realises he wants her. So he fucks her.
Obviously she's with 1 man only with a pathetic sex life - there’s a lot of things that man can’t do: clean up after himself, find my g-spot, give orgasms
God forbid she has good sex or gets off to anyone but H's magical dick.
meanwhile him with the said magical dick - I’ve never had any problems picking up a woman at the bar. Hell, I’ve picked up more than one at a time and never thought twice about it. The thought of being with two women at once is usually enough to get me going, get the blood rushing down to my cock rearing to go
eww...
They bang. No explanation on why his coach lied, no grovel from him, no apologies nothing. And she's a fucking spineless doormat. Girl trades one asshole for another and is absolutely desperate for his dick. He knocks her up, she forgets every shit he's done ???? All is fine in the world after it and its HEA
If 'romance' is him trusting and believing a stranger over her, ditching her without a second thought, then going onto screw all the other women only to come back to h with his std dick, this is the perfect book for you. It's sure as hell not for me 🫡
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2024
Alpha Read 8/14-9/14
Arc Re-Read
10/12-10/13
It’s a shock to no one that I am a huge Lexi James stan and when I found out that Harris was going to be a second chance…I was absolutely salivating for it.
This is the 5th book in Lexi’s Empire State Hockey series and follows Harris and Avery. They dated in college and after a misunderstanding they went their separate way heartbroken. They bump into one another 6 years later and let’s just say the fire is definitely still there and Avery ends up with a little surprise.
Harris is the definition of a golden retriever. He is protective, loving and the perfect balance of fierce, and commanding. He is the total package and I loved watching him be so protective of Avery with her ex and doing anything and everything to be there for her.
Absolutely loved Avery and seeing her grow stronger as the story progressed. When deserves all the applause after finally telling her ex where he could stick it.
These two were absolutely perfect for one another and I loved watching them rekindle what they had in the past. The marriage of convenience between the two of them I think awaken something in Harris bc…his my wife moments were absolutely *chefs kiss*. I devoured each and every one of them and still wanted more.
Each book of Lexi’s I fall more and more in love with her writing and her stories. I am so excited to see what comes next.
Overall: 4.5
Spice: 2.5
Tropes.
- Hockey Romance
- Second Chance
- Accidental Pregnancy
- Golden Retriever MMC
- “My Wife”
- It’s Always Been You
- Found Family
** I will say please check triggers before going in. These is some graphic descriptions with the delivery**
Arc Re-Read
10/12-10/13
It’s a shock to no one that I am a huge Lexi James stan and when I found out that Harris was going to be a second chance…I was absolutely salivating for it.
This is the 5th book in Lexi’s Empire State Hockey series and follows Harris and Avery. They dated in college and after a misunderstanding they went their separate way heartbroken. They bump into one another 6 years later and let’s just say the fire is definitely still there and Avery ends up with a little surprise.
Harris is the definition of a golden retriever. He is protective, loving and the perfect balance of fierce, and commanding. He is the total package and I loved watching him be so protective of Avery with her ex and doing anything and everything to be there for her.
Absolutely loved Avery and seeing her grow stronger as the story progressed. When deserves all the applause after finally telling her ex where he could stick it.
These two were absolutely perfect for one another and I loved watching them rekindle what they had in the past. The marriage of convenience between the two of them I think awaken something in Harris bc…his my wife moments were absolutely *chefs kiss*. I devoured each and every one of them and still wanted more.
Each book of Lexi’s I fall more and more in love with her writing and her stories. I am so excited to see what comes next.
Overall: 4.5
Spice: 2.5
Tropes.
- Hockey Romance
- Second Chance
- Accidental Pregnancy
- Golden Retriever MMC
- “My Wife”
- It’s Always Been You
- Found Family
** I will say please check triggers before going in. These is some graphic descriptions with the delivery**
November 7, 2024
I had been looking forward to this book because I’m actually one of those people who loves an accidental pregnancy book here and there. I have really enjoyed this series by Lexi & was excited to finally get Harris’ story having met him in the other books.
While I did enjoy this book & recommend it wasn’t my favorite of the series. I wish we got a little more hockey in this book as the story mainly takes place over the off season. This is second chance which goes from we haven’t seen or talked in 6 years to we’re having a baby getting married and in love again. There was a bit of miscommunication resulting in their original break up and the pacing was just a bit off for me. I did enjoy how devoted to Avery Harris was & how excited he was to be a dad. The friend group was great as always and I am looking forward to what I think is the next book!
3.75 ⭐️|| 1.5 🌶️
While I did enjoy this book & recommend it wasn’t my favorite of the series. I wish we got a little more hockey in this book as the story mainly takes place over the off season. This is second chance which goes from we haven’t seen or talked in 6 years to we’re having a baby getting married and in love again. There was a bit of miscommunication resulting in their original break up and the pacing was just a bit off for me. I did enjoy how devoted to Avery Harris was & how excited he was to be a dad. The friend group was great as always and I am looking forward to what I think is the next book!
3.75 ⭐️|| 1.5 🌶️
October 6, 2024
I've been such a sucker for the accidental pregnancy trope lately and I literally ate this book up! I unintentionally read 75% of it before bed because I couldn't stop myself! The miscommunication between Harris and Avery literally was KILLING me, but ugh I love them so much! Avery is just too sweet of a human and I was so proud of her when she finally did what she needed to for herself. And Harris had me swooning! I love a sweet man with a filthy mouth and the spice between these two was HOT.
What to expect:
🧡 Accidental Pregnancy
🏒 Hockey Player x Teacher
🧡 Found Family
🏒 Second Chance
🧡 “It Was Always You”
🏒 Golden Retriever MMC
🧡 Puppy Love (literally)
🏒 “My Wife”
Set to release on October 14th and is perfect if you love these tropes!
Thank you so much to Lexi for the ARC of this book!
What to expect:
🧡 Accidental Pregnancy
🏒 Hockey Player x Teacher
🧡 Found Family
🏒 Second Chance
🧡 “It Was Always You”
🏒 Golden Retriever MMC
🧡 Puppy Love (literally)
🏒 “My Wife”
Set to release on October 14th and is perfect if you love these tropes!
Thank you so much to Lexi for the ARC of this book!
October 13, 2024
ARC REVIEW
Release Date tomorrow- 10/14
Tropes-
Hockey player MMC
Accidental Pregnancy
Second Chance
Found Family
Golden Retriever MMC
"My Wife" 🥵
"It was always you" 🥹
As long as she’s touching me, kissing me, fucking me, I don’t really give a shit. I’m pretty sure she could do a handstand and kick me in the face, and I’d still say thank you, I’ll take another.
Guys, if you love a sweet second chance romance, with a SWOON worthy MMC and all the spice and banter, definitely read this! Throw in an accidental pregnancy, fake marriage, and some miscommunication. I was hooked and read this in 1 sitting!
I LOVE HARRIS! The way he would do anything for Avery 😍😘. The two were made for eachother! Together, they made laugh, cry, sweat, and want to scream at times!
It's definitely worth a read 🫶!
Release Date tomorrow- 10/14
Tropes-
Hockey player MMC
Accidental Pregnancy
Second Chance
Found Family
Golden Retriever MMC
"My Wife" 🥵
"It was always you" 🥹
As long as she’s touching me, kissing me, fucking me, I don’t really give a shit. I’m pretty sure she could do a handstand and kick me in the face, and I’d still say thank you, I’ll take another.
Guys, if you love a sweet second chance romance, with a SWOON worthy MMC and all the spice and banter, definitely read this! Throw in an accidental pregnancy, fake marriage, and some miscommunication. I was hooked and read this in 1 sitting!
I LOVE HARRIS! The way he would do anything for Avery 😍😘. The two were made for eachother! Together, they made laugh, cry, sweat, and want to scream at times!
It's definitely worth a read 🫶!
October 4, 2024
the way lexi keeps consistently delivering good book after good book is iconic tbh
i’m a sucker for an accidental pregnancy and lexi killed it with avery & harris’! i also loved that this wasn’t a super long book because the conflict/communication issues that avery & harris had from their past were resolved/addressed pretty quickly. nothing’s worse that miscommunication that could’ve been avoided if the mcs just talked to each other. s/o to lexi for not doing that!!
thank you lexi for the arc!!
i’m a sucker for an accidental pregnancy and lexi killed it with avery & harris’! i also loved that this wasn’t a super long book because the conflict/communication issues that avery & harris had from their past were resolved/addressed pretty quickly. nothing’s worse that miscommunication that could’ve been avoided if the mcs just talked to each other. s/o to lexi for not doing that!!
thank you lexi for the arc!!
October 15, 2024
Tropes:
Pro Hockey
Accidental Pregnancy
Marriage of Convenience
Second Chance
Golden Retriever MMC
Found Family
'its always been you'
4.5⭐
2.5🌶️
Second Chance with marriage of convenience, sign me right up!!
Avery + Harris previously dated during college and had a complicated break up that both really never recovered from. When Avery has enough of her deadbeat boyfriend she ends up meeting up with Harris at the bar and having a fun night which leads to an unexpected surprise.
Harris is a golden retriever MMC dream. He is such a simp+ swoony as all can be. He is extremely attentive to Avery when she struggles with her pregnancy, and does every sweet thing imaginable.
I just loved this story. The chemistry is off the charts between these two, and when they clear the air about their breakup all those years ago Avery + Harris are all in with each other.
As usual Lexi's spice is top tier and our golden retriever has a mouth on him!!
Congratulations Lexi on an amazing addition to the Empire State Hockey series
Pro Hockey
Accidental Pregnancy
Marriage of Convenience
Second Chance
Golden Retriever MMC
Found Family
'its always been you'
4.5⭐
2.5🌶️
Second Chance with marriage of convenience, sign me right up!!
Avery + Harris previously dated during college and had a complicated break up that both really never recovered from. When Avery has enough of her deadbeat boyfriend she ends up meeting up with Harris at the bar and having a fun night which leads to an unexpected surprise.
Harris is a golden retriever MMC dream. He is such a simp+ swoony as all can be. He is extremely attentive to Avery when she struggles with her pregnancy, and does every sweet thing imaginable.
I just loved this story. The chemistry is off the charts between these two, and when they clear the air about their breakup all those years ago Avery + Harris are all in with each other.
As usual Lexi's spice is top tier and our golden retriever has a mouth on him!!
Congratulations Lexi on an amazing addition to the Empire State Hockey series
October 5, 2024
ARC review in exchange for my honest opinion: honestly Harris is THE protective man! He is the blueprint for how a man should be protective: he was there for his lady and defended her but also let her fight her own battles when need be! I loved their little family and watching Avery grow after being shut away for so long was so amazing!!
October 9, 2024
Delayed Penalty by Lexi James
281 Pages
Book 5 of the Empire State Hockey Series
Can I have 1 Harris Danielson to go please! What a completely besotted man!
Every moment of this book made me feel all giddy inside and did not want to put it down, the way Harris looks after Avery throughout the book was heartwarming and put me on the edge of my seat. This story follows Avery a teacher who has gotten used to her mundane life with her fiancé Peter and accepted that this was her life, on a chance night out with her sister Avery bumps into the last person she wanted to bump into was her ex who broke her heart 6 years ago, after finding the courage to leave her nasty fiancé she and Harris have one night of fun to help her forget, which leads to an unexpected surprise.
I inhaled this book and if I didn't have to work or sleep I would have been finished a lot sooner, however I have been sat here for an obscene amount of time trying to put this into words, I am starting to think that I actually love the accidental pregnancy trope more than I previously thought, and I am dying to catch up on Lexi's previous books in the series, as the tid bits I got from this book from the characters of the previous books I want to know more!
I would highly recommend that anyone with brain cells gives this book your time of day as you will not be disappointed, run to preorder! for fans of Hockey Romance, Golden Retriever MMC, Found Family, Second Chance, It was always you, Accidental pregnancy, My Wife.
281 Pages
Book 5 of the Empire State Hockey Series
Can I have 1 Harris Danielson to go please! What a completely besotted man!
Every moment of this book made me feel all giddy inside and did not want to put it down, the way Harris looks after Avery throughout the book was heartwarming and put me on the edge of my seat. This story follows Avery a teacher who has gotten used to her mundane life with her fiancé Peter and accepted that this was her life, on a chance night out with her sister Avery bumps into the last person she wanted to bump into was her ex who broke her heart 6 years ago, after finding the courage to leave her nasty fiancé she and Harris have one night of fun to help her forget, which leads to an unexpected surprise.
I inhaled this book and if I didn't have to work or sleep I would have been finished a lot sooner, however I have been sat here for an obscene amount of time trying to put this into words, I am starting to think that I actually love the accidental pregnancy trope more than I previously thought, and I am dying to catch up on Lexi's previous books in the series, as the tid bits I got from this book from the characters of the previous books I want to know more!
I would highly recommend that anyone with brain cells gives this book your time of day as you will not be disappointed, run to preorder! for fans of Hockey Romance, Golden Retriever MMC, Found Family, Second Chance, It was always you, Accidental pregnancy, My Wife.
October 11, 2024
This book was my introduction to Lexi James and I have to say, she sure knows how to write spicy golden retriever men and second chance romances! 😍
Harris is a dreamy, loving, protective man who certainly knows how to take care of his woman both in and out of the bedroom! He’s the perfect balance of gentle and fierce, commanding and submissive. Avery is a sweet, kind soul with a lil’ touch of sass to her! Her strength in standing up to her abusive fiancé and finally leaving him was so admirable. Once she ran into Harris (her college sweetheart), all the broken pieces of her life started falling back together. The push and pull between the two of them was excruciating at times, but they finally figured out that the love they had for each other outweighed their past. Who knew that running into your ex one night and throwing caution to the wind would change everything and lead to a life of happiness? This book is really heavy on the “everything happens for a reason” saying, which I love!
I definitely plan on reading the first four books so I can get the full picture of the found family and friendships that were touched on in this book. I love the relationships that all the characters have with each other — They’re a fun bunch for sure!
Overall, I enjoyed this read and was swooning over the unconditional love that Harris and Avery have for each other! It’s a very beautiful love story.
Harris is a dreamy, loving, protective man who certainly knows how to take care of his woman both in and out of the bedroom! He’s the perfect balance of gentle and fierce, commanding and submissive. Avery is a sweet, kind soul with a lil’ touch of sass to her! Her strength in standing up to her abusive fiancé and finally leaving him was so admirable. Once she ran into Harris (her college sweetheart), all the broken pieces of her life started falling back together. The push and pull between the two of them was excruciating at times, but they finally figured out that the love they had for each other outweighed their past. Who knew that running into your ex one night and throwing caution to the wind would change everything and lead to a life of happiness? This book is really heavy on the “everything happens for a reason” saying, which I love!
I definitely plan on reading the first four books so I can get the full picture of the found family and friendships that were touched on in this book. I love the relationships that all the characters have with each other — They’re a fun bunch for sure!
Overall, I enjoyed this read and was swooning over the unconditional love that Harris and Avery have for each other! It’s a very beautiful love story.
October 16, 2024
3.25 🌟
I enjoyed reading this book. And it contains one of my favourite tropes. "My wife" . It always causes me to go berserk.😩
Harris and Avery dated for two years in college before parting ways due to a misunderstanding. After six years of avoiding Harris, she eventually meets him. After that she learns that her fiancée is cheating on her. She breaks her engagement with her fiancée. She feels helpless and finds herself once again in front of Harris. What was intended to be one night to forget about her miserable life and cheating ex transforms into a whole unplanned pregnancy and reunion. Harris was simply wonderful. I had fun reading this book.🥹🌷
Harris was amazing. His funny, charming and caring side was just swoon-worthy. He was so much in love with her. It was adorable to see him being so protective of Avery. And it was so amazing to witness them go through everything together, resolve their old misunderstandings, and grow closer again.🧡🤌
Tropes:
🧡Accidental Pregnancy
🏒Hockey Player x Teacher
🧡Found Family
🏒Second Chance
🧡"lt Was Always You"
🏒Golden Retriever MMC
🧡Puppy Love
🏒"My Wife"
I enjoyed reading this book. And it contains one of my favourite tropes. "My wife" . It always causes me to go berserk.😩
Harris and Avery dated for two years in college before parting ways due to a misunderstanding. After six years of avoiding Harris, she eventually meets him. After that she learns that her fiancée is cheating on her. She breaks her engagement with her fiancée. She feels helpless and finds herself once again in front of Harris. What was intended to be one night to forget about her miserable life and cheating ex transforms into a whole unplanned pregnancy and reunion. Harris was simply wonderful. I had fun reading this book.🥹🌷
Harris was amazing. His funny, charming and caring side was just swoon-worthy. He was so much in love with her. It was adorable to see him being so protective of Avery. And it was so amazing to witness them go through everything together, resolve their old misunderstandings, and grow closer again.🧡🤌
Tropes:
🧡Accidental Pregnancy
🏒Hockey Player x Teacher
🧡Found Family
🏒Second Chance
🧡"lt Was Always You"
🏒Golden Retriever MMC
🧡Puppy Love
🏒"My Wife"
October 15, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
2 🌶️
Tropes
Hockey Player
Accidental Pregnancy
Second Chance Romance
Found Family
Golden Retriever MMC
“My Wife”
Harris is a NHL hockey player who lost the only woman he truly loved for reason he doesn’t fully know.. I loved how Harris would soothe Avery just the way at she need every time .. I also love how they could read each other and just know what the other was needing .. like they say fate.. Avery is a young woman in a crappy relationship with a guy named Peter trust if you don’t hate or heavily dislike him by the end of this book I will be shock but I am glad how everything came out at the end and how healing really happened for those hurt in this story .. but I am super proud of Avery an even though it took time she left and went and found hers happy once again by that I mean she was no longer a shell of herself .. I also loved this book for show truths about pregnancy like for one morning sick as I have seen by family members wasn’t just morning thing or a fews weeks .. I love the girl gang that was shown in this book everyone needs one like this group!!!
2 🌶️
Tropes
Hockey Player
Accidental Pregnancy
Second Chance Romance
Found Family
Golden Retriever MMC
“My Wife”
Harris is a NHL hockey player who lost the only woman he truly loved for reason he doesn’t fully know.. I loved how Harris would soothe Avery just the way at she need every time .. I also love how they could read each other and just know what the other was needing .. like they say fate.. Avery is a young woman in a crappy relationship with a guy named Peter trust if you don’t hate or heavily dislike him by the end of this book I will be shock but I am glad how everything came out at the end and how healing really happened for those hurt in this story .. but I am super proud of Avery an even though it took time she left and went and found hers happy once again by that I mean she was no longer a shell of herself .. I also loved this book for show truths about pregnancy like for one morning sick as I have seen by family members wasn’t just morning thing or a fews weeks .. I love the girl gang that was shown in this book everyone needs one like this group!!!
October 14, 2024
Harris my Love!
AMAZING!!!!
Oh I loved this book so much! Second chance, fake marriage and accidental pregnancy- I am here for it!!!
Harris is a NHL Hockey player who is still thinking about the love of his life- even though the relationship ended badly 6 years ago. But she comes into his life again and he is determined not to let her go again.
Avery is a teacher and she is in a really horrible relationship with a man that doesn’t care for her, but if she leaves she will lose everything.
I just love how these two were able to be in each other’s lives again even if it took a one night stand. I just couldn’t put this book down, I read it so fast! Can’t wait for the next one- loving this series!!!
AMAZING!!!!
Oh I loved this book so much! Second chance, fake marriage and accidental pregnancy- I am here for it!!!
Harris is a NHL Hockey player who is still thinking about the love of his life- even though the relationship ended badly 6 years ago. But she comes into his life again and he is determined not to let her go again.
Avery is a teacher and she is in a really horrible relationship with a man that doesn’t care for her, but if she leaves she will lose everything.
I just love how these two were able to be in each other’s lives again even if it took a one night stand. I just couldn’t put this book down, I read it so fast! Can’t wait for the next one- loving this series!!!
December 23, 2024
bro this fmc has to be the most spineless main character ever. holy fuck bro ain't no way you were so desperate to find a TEACHING JOB that you had to be engaged 6 years to a useless man. also their whole breakup situation didn't make any sense bc how the hell do you have no trust and communication in a relationship. no apologies or explanations or anything, the fmc and mmc get together once and she's pregnant like girl... . i'm tired of reading these shitty books with probably sponsored reviews some of yall were not meant to be authors and it's okay
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2024
Harris and Avery were a perfect couple! I’m not always a huge fan of the accidental pregnancy trope but I enjoyed the way Lexi wrote this one! And I mean come on, I’m a teacher so anytime a teacher is in a book I’m a sucker for it!
Harris was swoon worthy! And Avery was a queen!
Everyone needs to plan on downloading this on Kindle tomorrow or buying the book! Such a fun, flirty and cute read with spice! Thank you Lexi for the ARC read!
Harris was swoon worthy! And Avery was a queen!
Everyone needs to plan on downloading this on Kindle tomorrow or buying the book! Such a fun, flirty and cute read with spice! Thank you Lexi for the ARC read!
October 5, 2024
Oh Harris Danielson, you sweet sweet man! This book had me in its clutches!!! The banter, the spice, the hilarious found family…it was EVERYTHING! This was my first Lexi James book and now I definitely need to go back and read the other 4 books in this series.
October 14, 2024
Delayed Penalty is this 5th book in the empire state hockey series we get to see Harris and Avery story this is a second chance hockey romance
Every since I met Harris in the other books I have love his character and the story only made me love him more the head strong defence man is really a teddy bear when it comes The love of his life Avery💓
Avery character she grew on me as the story shows us how things didn’t really go the way these too thought there had when there broke 6 years ago
As always I love that with it been a series we always see pass character and banter these boys have always make me smile and connection the girls have was even better than I could wish to read.
My only little niggle is that there’s a character which I loved seeing her grow she doesn’t get more talked about in the last part of the story .
I know I’m been picky but I was so vested to see her grow more
For me it’s a 4🌟
Every since I met Harris in the other books I have love his character and the story only made me love him more the head strong defence man is really a teddy bear when it comes The love of his life Avery💓
Avery character she grew on me as the story shows us how things didn’t really go the way these too thought there had when there broke 6 years ago
As always I love that with it been a series we always see pass character and banter these boys have always make me smile and connection the girls have was even better than I could wish to read.
My only little niggle is that there’s a character which I loved seeing her grow she doesn’t get more talked about in the last part of the story .
I know I’m been picky but I was so vested to see her grow more
For me it’s a 4🌟
October 8, 2024
This book was an absolute delight, overflowing with cuteness, and I loved every moment of it! Harris was simply irresistible, and the story had me laughing out loud throughout.
The author beautifully captured the enduring nature of their love, making it heartwarming to see Harris and Avery finally get the happy ending they so deserved. It was a thoroughly enjoyable read!
Thank you Lexi for this ARC
The author beautifully captured the enduring nature of their love, making it heartwarming to see Harris and Avery finally get the happy ending they so deserved. It was a thoroughly enjoyable read!
Thank you Lexi for this ARC
October 14, 2024
I adore these characters! Accidental pregnancy is one of my favorite tropes, and the way Harris was all in with Avery had me swooning like crazy. 🥰🥰🥰🥰
April 18, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
October 17, 2024
Really cute and sweet book. I feel the timeline was rushed in places, but I overall liked the plot.
October 15, 2024
I had the privilege to be an ARC reader!
Accidental pregnancy and second chance romance!
Avery and Harris dated 6 years ago but unfortunate events happened where they ended their relationship.
Avery is currently dating someone and runs into Harris. Starting their new second change romance!
Accidental pregnancy and second chance romance!
Avery and Harris dated 6 years ago but unfortunate events happened where they ended their relationship.
Avery is currently dating someone and runs into Harris. Starting their new second change romance!
October 14, 2024
I’m proud to say that I have been arc reading for Lexi since her debut last year. So when I got this one, I was ready to go! (Even though it’s another accidental pregnancy book, there have been SO MANY of those lately)
In Delayed Penalty we follow Harris and Avery, who used to be college sweethearts but then split when he joined the NHL. Now 6 years later they bump into each other during a night out, and she finds him for comfort after splitting with her fiancé. One thing leads to another and she discovers she is pregnant, and those feelings she had for Harris haven’t completely gone away.
Overall, I did like the book. It was a good romance book that was fast paced and had all of our favourite characters from past books. But I did find this one a bit messy, especially at the end.
First we never got the reason why Peter and his father did what they did, so it’s an unanswered question after finishing the book. And there was so much going on that went so quickly that I felt like I was speed reading the last bit when I wasn’t. Everything at the hospital was absolutely chaotic. And maybe it was meant to be, but it just didn’t feel right.
Aside from that there were other plot holes that seemed significant to the characters that were never explained, but they didn’t leave me frustrated, just full of more questions.
If you’re looking for a hockey romance or have been reading this series then go check it out!
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you to the author for the advanced readers copy, all thoughts are my own.
In Delayed Penalty we follow Harris and Avery, who used to be college sweethearts but then split when he joined the NHL. Now 6 years later they bump into each other during a night out, and she finds him for comfort after splitting with her fiancé. One thing leads to another and she discovers she is pregnant, and those feelings she had for Harris haven’t completely gone away.
Overall, I did like the book. It was a good romance book that was fast paced and had all of our favourite characters from past books. But I did find this one a bit messy, especially at the end.
First we never got the reason why Peter and his father did what they did, so it’s an unanswered question after finishing the book. And there was so much going on that went so quickly that I felt like I was speed reading the last bit when I wasn’t. Everything at the hospital was absolutely chaotic. And maybe it was meant to be, but it just didn’t feel right.
Aside from that there were other plot holes that seemed significant to the characters that were never explained, but they didn’t leave me frustrated, just full of more questions.
If you’re looking for a hockey romance or have been reading this series then go check it out!
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you to the author for the advanced readers copy, all thoughts are my own.
October 13, 2024
ARC Review - ⭐️⭐️ & 🌶️🌶️
While I enjoyed aspects of Delayed Penalty, I can’t give it more than 2 stars. This doesn’t mean I didn’t like the book—on the contrary, I loved the two main characters and their story. The book tackled more serious topics and had less spice than previous books in the series, but it was still an enjoyable read, if not a bit far-fetched.
However, the writing and editing issues kept me from ranking it higher. I understand this is an advanced reader copy, but having just finished the previous four books, I’m confident the editing and writing won’t improve in the final version. There were also several plot points we never got answers to — what did Peter & his family have to gain from Avery and her family? What property? Why the name Luna? Did they ever get a German shepherd? What did the letter say? I’ve got questions.
Still, I’m excited for the sixth & final book—my guess is it’ll be about Miles and Stella! 👀
What to expect:
🧡Accidental Pregnancy
🏒Hockey Player x Teacher
🧡Found Family
🏒Second Chance
🧡”It was always you”
🏒 Golden Retriever MMC
🧡 Puppy Love (literally)
🏒”My Wife”
While I enjoyed aspects of Delayed Penalty, I can’t give it more than 2 stars. This doesn’t mean I didn’t like the book—on the contrary, I loved the two main characters and their story. The book tackled more serious topics and had less spice than previous books in the series, but it was still an enjoyable read, if not a bit far-fetched.
However, the writing and editing issues kept me from ranking it higher. I understand this is an advanced reader copy, but having just finished the previous four books, I’m confident the editing and writing won’t improve in the final version. There were also several plot points we never got answers to — what did Peter & his family have to gain from Avery and her family? What property? Why the name Luna? Did they ever get a German shepherd? What did the letter say? I’ve got questions.
Still, I’m excited for the sixth & final book—my guess is it’ll be about Miles and Stella! 👀
What to expect:
🧡Accidental Pregnancy
🏒Hockey Player x Teacher
🧡Found Family
🏒Second Chance
🧡”It was always you”
🏒 Golden Retriever MMC
🧡 Puppy Love (literally)
🏒”My Wife”
October 22, 2024
This is an ARC review. It is a second chance, hockey romance with a pregnancy between Harris and Avery. It was an easy read, but the context isn't deep. The author just glades over everything and didn't dig deep into anything. It skated over the pregnancy and preclampsia condition. Skated over the deep conversation about break up. This is my first book of the series, and I'll probably still read the other. Harris was an amazing man and cared for Avery with everything he had. Avery was Meh. She's just accepted everything that was dealt to her without much question. Peter was a douche and I wish there was more retribution.
October 9, 2024
Delayed Penalty was definitely something. I really hated Peter and have no respect for Avery when it came to him. Like why would you chose Peter over Harris??? Anyways, it was good after she got her head on straight. I truly believe that Harris and Avery were made for each other. Even if it was difficult for me to get into this book. Overall this book is good but Avery needs some work.
October 5, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Oh my god.
Harris???? Where do we start. He’s the full package literally! What a guy. He would do anything for the ones he loves and he is a full golden retriever MMC till he gets in the bedroom and he becomes filthy & feral - both things we love right? ABSOLUTELY 🥵🌶️
Avery - She’s such a kind soul, who took too much for too long from stupid Peter, we hate Peter? We absolutely hate Peter! So proud of her and so happy for her!
This was such a warming, fun and spicy story I loved every page off it.
Tropes
•Hockey Player
•Golden Retriever MMC
•Found Family
•Second Chance
•It was always you
•Accidental pregnancy
•My Wife
“As much as I love seeing you in this lace, I want to see you in nothing but my marks and my cum. Now, tell me what you want.”
“Look at you, on your knees for me like a goddamn angel.”
Synopsis -
Avery
My entire life I’ve always had one dream: become a teacher. It started when I was in third grade and had a teacher I adored who taught me to read, when all the teachers before her had given up on me.
The day I stepped foot on my college campus to tour it was also the day I was introduced to my second dream. Harris Danielson. After we met that day, we talked almost every single day and we spent the next two years falling in love. Until it was time for him to go to the NHL and he broke my heart without even speaking a word.
Now I’m a teacher yet I still feel like my life is empty, like I’m trapped, and the thing caging me in sits on my ring finger, a constant reminder that I don’t really have another choice.
Until I do something crazy and end up staring down at a test with two pink lines.
How do you tell the man you used to be in love with that you’re about to have a baby…together.
Worse? How do you keep your heart protected when you’re seeing the only thing you’ve ever wanted come together, only it’s not what it seems.
Harris
Hockey and my family have always been the two constants in my life. The two things that I knew would always be there on the good days and the bad days. Until I met Avery. Avery became the third constant in my life, fitting in so effortlessly that it felt like she’d always be there.
Until she left.
After that I was left with a hole in my heart, a gap that no one could fill, a fact that I’ve learned over the years until eventually I just stopped trying. Until one day I run into her again and it’s like I’m transported back six years ago, her smile and laugh enough to turn a bad day around.
But then I see the ring on her finger and am reminded that she’s not mine anymore.
But after a night out, life is forever changed when she tells me she’s pregnant. Now the stakes are higher than ever, can I keep the girl, finally getting the family I’ve dreamed about for years?
All I know is I’m willing to do whatever it takes to keep them, both of them.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Oh my god.
Harris???? Where do we start. He’s the full package literally! What a guy. He would do anything for the ones he loves and he is a full golden retriever MMC till he gets in the bedroom and he becomes filthy & feral - both things we love right? ABSOLUTELY 🥵🌶️
Avery - She’s such a kind soul, who took too much for too long from stupid Peter, we hate Peter? We absolutely hate Peter! So proud of her and so happy for her!
This was such a warming, fun and spicy story I loved every page off it.
Tropes
•Hockey Player
•Golden Retriever MMC
•Found Family
•Second Chance
•It was always you
•Accidental pregnancy
•My Wife
“As much as I love seeing you in this lace, I want to see you in nothing but my marks and my cum. Now, tell me what you want.”
“Look at you, on your knees for me like a goddamn angel.”
Synopsis -
Avery
My entire life I’ve always had one dream: become a teacher. It started when I was in third grade and had a teacher I adored who taught me to read, when all the teachers before her had given up on me.
The day I stepped foot on my college campus to tour it was also the day I was introduced to my second dream. Harris Danielson. After we met that day, we talked almost every single day and we spent the next two years falling in love. Until it was time for him to go to the NHL and he broke my heart without even speaking a word.
Now I’m a teacher yet I still feel like my life is empty, like I’m trapped, and the thing caging me in sits on my ring finger, a constant reminder that I don’t really have another choice.
Until I do something crazy and end up staring down at a test with two pink lines.
How do you tell the man you used to be in love with that you’re about to have a baby…together.
Worse? How do you keep your heart protected when you’re seeing the only thing you’ve ever wanted come together, only it’s not what it seems.
Harris
Hockey and my family have always been the two constants in my life. The two things that I knew would always be there on the good days and the bad days. Until I met Avery. Avery became the third constant in my life, fitting in so effortlessly that it felt like she’d always be there.
Until she left.
After that I was left with a hole in my heart, a gap that no one could fill, a fact that I’ve learned over the years until eventually I just stopped trying. Until one day I run into her again and it’s like I’m transported back six years ago, her smile and laugh enough to turn a bad day around.
But then I see the ring on her finger and am reminded that she’s not mine anymore.
But after a night out, life is forever changed when she tells me she’s pregnant. Now the stakes are higher than ever, can I keep the girl, finally getting the family I’ve dreamed about for years?
All I know is I’m willing to do whatever it takes to keep them, both of them.
October 14, 2024
Oh my sweet sweet boy Harrison!! I have been dying for Harris’ story!! Then to find out this story is second chance + accidental pregnancy sign me uppp! Harrison was so swoony and delicious!
The Cyclone boys are BACK BABYYY! I love these boys so damn much!!
Harrison has been in love with Avery since college, he hasn’t been in a relationship since. Just to run into her at the local hangout for the Cyclones. I love that her life starts to spiral and she falls right back into the arms of Harris. I absolutely loved their story!
Avery tries to be so fierce and mad at her ex boyfriend from college but can’t seem to stay away. From the first moment she runs into Harris everything is full speed ahead. She insisted it was a one night stand just to find out she’s pregnant with the man she’s never stopped loving! She tries so hard to keep a boundary from Harris but let’s face it..Harrison is perfection.
Avery is your definition of a strong FMC. She finally decides that she deserves better and she walks right up to Harrison to let him know. I loved how after their one night she is just full on mom mode! Only wanting what’s best for the babe and she knows Harris deserves to he’s the best dad.
Harrison is literally the swooniest golden retriever ever!! This man is so damn sweet. Bringing Avery soup when she’s sick and giving her all the space to miss him. Ugh I loved him something fierce!
And can we take a minute to appreciate the dirtyyy mouth on Harrison..good gawd ❤️🔥 he couldn’t stay away from Avery even if he tried!
Oh and my little pup Luna! She had my heart from the beginning! The fact that Harrison volunteered at a shelter because he knew he couldn’t have a pup with his work schedule. And the fact that he named her after the name Avery picked out years and years ago!? Major swoon! 🫠
Ok let’s break it down.
Harrison and Avery dated in college and their breakup was a mess. Harrison left a note breaking up with her and hasn’t spoken to Avery in 6 years, just to stumble into her a the local hangout. Avery’s life is in a currently spiral as she finds out her fiancé has been cheating on her and also treats her like crap. After deciding to leave her fiancé on her birthday she seeks out Harrison for a night she will never forget. Just to find out she’s living with her sister, just broke up with her crazy fiancé and apparently pregnant. But she hasn’t slept with her fiancé in over 6 months…
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️.5
🏒 Pro Hockey Player + Teacher
🌀 Second Chance
🏒 Accidental Pregnancy
🌀 Golden Retriever MMC
🏒 MY WIFE
Thank you so so much Lexi for allowing me to be apart of your ARC team! 🫶🏼
The Cyclone boys are BACK BABYYY! I love these boys so damn much!!
Harrison has been in love with Avery since college, he hasn’t been in a relationship since. Just to run into her at the local hangout for the Cyclones. I love that her life starts to spiral and she falls right back into the arms of Harris. I absolutely loved their story!
Avery tries to be so fierce and mad at her ex boyfriend from college but can’t seem to stay away. From the first moment she runs into Harris everything is full speed ahead. She insisted it was a one night stand just to find out she’s pregnant with the man she’s never stopped loving! She tries so hard to keep a boundary from Harris but let’s face it..Harrison is perfection.
Avery is your definition of a strong FMC. She finally decides that she deserves better and she walks right up to Harrison to let him know. I loved how after their one night she is just full on mom mode! Only wanting what’s best for the babe and she knows Harris deserves to he’s the best dad.
Harrison is literally the swooniest golden retriever ever!! This man is so damn sweet. Bringing Avery soup when she’s sick and giving her all the space to miss him. Ugh I loved him something fierce!
And can we take a minute to appreciate the dirtyyy mouth on Harrison..good gawd ❤️🔥 he couldn’t stay away from Avery even if he tried!
Oh and my little pup Luna! She had my heart from the beginning! The fact that Harrison volunteered at a shelter because he knew he couldn’t have a pup with his work schedule. And the fact that he named her after the name Avery picked out years and years ago!? Major swoon! 🫠
Ok let’s break it down.
Harrison and Avery dated in college and their breakup was a mess. Harrison left a note breaking up with her and hasn’t spoken to Avery in 6 years, just to stumble into her a the local hangout. Avery’s life is in a currently spiral as she finds out her fiancé has been cheating on her and also treats her like crap. After deciding to leave her fiancé on her birthday she seeks out Harrison for a night she will never forget. Just to find out she’s living with her sister, just broke up with her crazy fiancé and apparently pregnant. But she hasn’t slept with her fiancé in over 6 months…
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️.5
🏒 Pro Hockey Player + Teacher
🌀 Second Chance
🏒 Accidental Pregnancy
🌀 Golden Retriever MMC
🏒 MY WIFE
Thank you so so much Lexi for allowing me to be apart of your ARC team! 🫶🏼
October 14, 2024
ARC REVIEW
Delayed Penalty follows our MCS Avery and Harris. They had a previous relationship back in the beginning of Avery’s college days but things went wrong and now Avery is in another relationship. This was an easy read for me, having read it in just under 5 hours, I could not put it down.
We all need a Harris Danielson, they way he is completely and utterly in love with Avery from the very beginning had me melting. He was so attentive during her entire pregnancy, always there caring for her, and making sure she had everything she could want. Avery as the FMC was just so sweet and the pride I felt when she finally did what she needed to do for herself made me love her even more. The spice between these two MCs was intense and HOT.
I have always had a like for the accidental pregnancy trope and this book DELIVERED! Normally the miscommunication trope isn’t my favourite but it was done really well here. Lets not forget the side characters, I will definitely be going and reading the previous 4 books in this series(no you don’t need to read them in order as each book covers a different couple), Luna is the most adorable puppy ever and the love I have for this fictional golden retriever puppy is insane, I want my own Luna
Tropes/What to expect:
🤍Accidental Pregnancy
🏒Hockey Player x Teacher
🤍Found Family
🏒Second Chance
🤍“It was always you”
🏒Golden Retriever MMC
🤍“Puppy Love” (literally)
🏒“My Wife”
I highly recommend reading this!
Some of my fav quotes
🤍“Fair point. I mean, he brought chicken soup and you’re bringing impending parenthood with you, basically apples and oranges, if you ask me” (i lost it when her sister said this, straight up stopped reading for a moment)
🤍“Don’t worry, little one. You’re coming home for good… she puts her head on my hand and immediately falls asleep, like she can finally have some peace knowing she found a home. Not just a home, a family.” (some Luna love, best puppy)
🤍“I’ve found a home and a love I no longer feel like I need to run from.”
🤍“But if this is a dream, I’ll gladly sleep for eternity”
Delayed Penalty follows our MCS Avery and Harris. They had a previous relationship back in the beginning of Avery’s college days but things went wrong and now Avery is in another relationship. This was an easy read for me, having read it in just under 5 hours, I could not put it down.
We all need a Harris Danielson, they way he is completely and utterly in love with Avery from the very beginning had me melting. He was so attentive during her entire pregnancy, always there caring for her, and making sure she had everything she could want. Avery as the FMC was just so sweet and the pride I felt when she finally did what she needed to do for herself made me love her even more. The spice between these two MCs was intense and HOT.
I have always had a like for the accidental pregnancy trope and this book DELIVERED! Normally the miscommunication trope isn’t my favourite but it was done really well here. Lets not forget the side characters, I will definitely be going and reading the previous 4 books in this series(no you don’t need to read them in order as each book covers a different couple), Luna is the most adorable puppy ever and the love I have for this fictional golden retriever puppy is insane, I want my own Luna
Tropes/What to expect:
🤍Accidental Pregnancy
🏒Hockey Player x Teacher
🤍Found Family
🏒Second Chance
🤍“It was always you”
🏒Golden Retriever MMC
🤍“Puppy Love” (literally)
🏒“My Wife”
I highly recommend reading this!
Some of my fav quotes
🤍“Fair point. I mean, he brought chicken soup and you’re bringing impending parenthood with you, basically apples and oranges, if you ask me” (i lost it when her sister said this, straight up stopped reading for a moment)
🤍“Don’t worry, little one. You’re coming home for good… she puts her head on my hand and immediately falls asleep, like she can finally have some peace knowing she found a home. Not just a home, a family.” (some Luna love, best puppy)
🤍“I’ve found a home and a love I no longer feel like I need to run from.”
🤍“But if this is a dream, I’ll gladly sleep for eternity”
October 17, 2024
arc review!!!
This book was soooo good. I am so attached to the characters to the point where I was sitting in my room last night listening to we can't be friends by Ariana Grande sobbing because of how much I love this book.
I love these characters sooo much.
Avery and Harris dated back in college and thought they were going to be each other's forever. But something happened and they broke up 6 years ago and have never seen each other in 6 years. But after Avery leaves her fiance, and meets up with Harris after 6 years, they have a steamy night and then go their separate ways. A few weeks later Avery finds out she's pregnant... with her ex's baby.
When I tell you that I ate this up, it would not be a lie. I read it in a day and it was a practice day. Which meant I was at cheer for like 5 hours and I still finished the book. I was laughing and smiling so much that I really need to read her other books so I can find this same feeling.
The pregnancy wasn't out of the blue (literally an accidental pregnancy book). And it just added to the story even more. it made them finally work out their past issues and made them closer.
This man was so kind to her I loved it. He would just do sweet things for her and it really made me love him more. I swear indie authors know how to write romance and they do it sooo good.
The found family is also soo good. Seeing Harris' friends embrace Avery was so cute. And seeing the wives of Harris' friends make Avery feel like a part of their family made me love this.
When Harris' would say "my wife" I would smile and laugh so hard. And when he would stand up for her would be my favorite thing. I happened like 3 or 4 times and each time I couldn't get enough.
Just know you will be in love with these characters because of how funny they are. they are hilarious and her writing it sooo good.
The book is less than 300 pages but it never felt rushed. because with accidental pregnancy books sometimes it feels rushed. But this one was not rushed and just had a lot of time jumps. But since it was also a second chance I knew they were both still in love with each other, so it was easier to believe their love was real and not rushed.
The pregnancy wasn't put in the last %80 of the book (which I loved), the marriage was definitely needed (especially with what was going on), and the second chance in this book was soo good. From the moment Harris saw Avery again after 6 years, he knew she was still the one for him. And he wanted her back even though she was engaged. I haven't read any books from this author but I sure as heck am now. this was soo good and you definitely should read when it comes out October 14!
This book was soooo good. I am so attached to the characters to the point where I was sitting in my room last night listening to we can't be friends by Ariana Grande sobbing because of how much I love this book.
I love these characters sooo much.
Avery and Harris dated back in college and thought they were going to be each other's forever. But something happened and they broke up 6 years ago and have never seen each other in 6 years. But after Avery leaves her fiance, and meets up with Harris after 6 years, they have a steamy night and then go their separate ways. A few weeks later Avery finds out she's pregnant... with her ex's baby.
When I tell you that I ate this up, it would not be a lie. I read it in a day and it was a practice day. Which meant I was at cheer for like 5 hours and I still finished the book. I was laughing and smiling so much that I really need to read her other books so I can find this same feeling.
The pregnancy wasn't out of the blue (literally an accidental pregnancy book). And it just added to the story even more. it made them finally work out their past issues and made them closer.
This man was so kind to her I loved it. He would just do sweet things for her and it really made me love him more. I swear indie authors know how to write romance and they do it sooo good.
The found family is also soo good. Seeing Harris' friends embrace Avery was so cute. And seeing the wives of Harris' friends make Avery feel like a part of their family made me love this.
When Harris' would say "my wife" I would smile and laugh so hard. And when he would stand up for her would be my favorite thing. I happened like 3 or 4 times and each time I couldn't get enough.
Just know you will be in love with these characters because of how funny they are. they are hilarious and her writing it sooo good.
The book is less than 300 pages but it never felt rushed. because with accidental pregnancy books sometimes it feels rushed. But this one was not rushed and just had a lot of time jumps. But since it was also a second chance I knew they were both still in love with each other, so it was easier to believe their love was real and not rushed.
The pregnancy wasn't put in the last %80 of the book (which I loved), the marriage was definitely needed (especially with what was going on), and the second chance in this book was soo good. From the moment Harris saw Avery again after 6 years, he knew she was still the one for him. And he wanted her back even though she was engaged. I haven't read any books from this author but I sure as heck am now. this was soo good and you definitely should read when it comes out October 14!
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