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Dirty Puck #1
Puck Lust
He kissed me once. I've been running from it for seven years.
Jack Larson was everything I wanted to be—hockey god, fearless, untouchable. I told myself I was obsessed with his game, not him.
Then he kissed me in that empty locker room, and my world exploded.
I panicked. Said things I didn't mean. Watched him disappear into the NHL draft without a goodbye.
Seven years later, fate throws us together as teammates on the Oakland Raptors. Management's solution to our obvious bad blood? Force us to room together on every road trip.
The nights spent in our shared hotel rooms are torture. Every stolen glance sets me on fire. And every day, I'm forced to confront the truth I've been running from: I'm not straight. Never was. And Jack Larson is the reason I know.
But Jack's carrying secrets darker than our past—secrets that could destroy everything. When I discover what he's hiding, I'll have to choose between the safe life I've built and the dangerous reality of loving the man who awakened me.
Some discoveries change everything. Others burn your world down and force you to build something better...if you can survive them.
Puck Lust is book one in the Dirty Puck series. It is a second-chance MM hockey romance featuring forced proximity, sexual awakening, hurt/comfort, and two professional athletes learning that the biggest risk isn't on the ice—it's opening your heart.
Jack Larson was everything I wanted to be—hockey god, fearless, untouchable. I told myself I was obsessed with his game, not him.
Then he kissed me in that empty locker room, and my world exploded.
I panicked. Said things I didn't mean. Watched him disappear into the NHL draft without a goodbye.
Seven years later, fate throws us together as teammates on the Oakland Raptors. Management's solution to our obvious bad blood? Force us to room together on every road trip.
The nights spent in our shared hotel rooms are torture. Every stolen glance sets me on fire. And every day, I'm forced to confront the truth I've been running from: I'm not straight. Never was. And Jack Larson is the reason I know.
But Jack's carrying secrets darker than our past—secrets that could destroy everything. When I discover what he's hiding, I'll have to choose between the safe life I've built and the dangerous reality of loving the man who awakened me.
Some discoveries change everything. Others burn your world down and force you to build something better...if you can survive them.
Puck Lust is book one in the Dirty Puck series. It is a second-chance MM hockey romance featuring forced proximity, sexual awakening, hurt/comfort, and two professional athletes learning that the biggest risk isn't on the ice—it's opening your heart.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 5, 2025
358 people are currently reading
430 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
June 8, 2025
Ok girl get it together.
A) this isn’t age gap at all so why is it tagged that?
B) the book while it’s fun to read (and I did enjoy it a lot) but it was like whiplash with Jack, who I actually really really liked switching his mind based on .2 seconds of information every five seconds. My neck got a crick in it from how fast his moods changed. Once you get his back story and how angry and scared he is, it makes more sense, but by that point you are 75% of the way in.
C) Carter was actually kind of a red flag, he was a good guy but on paper he doesn’t work with Jack’s trauma and I feel like they are going to keep triggering each other. He basically never is there for Jack in a meaningful way and until the end mostly (if unintentionally) thinks with his man downstairs more than his brain 🧠
D) the title name is terrible, as is the art.
E) it made no sense that’s Carter’s puckbunny girlfriend would cheat on him and release the video- what is she a cartoon villain? But his family likes her? Again whiplash’s
Overall this could have easily been 5 stars with some tweaking. The emotional distance Jack showed the world, was reflected in how he kept the reader at arms length as well. You feel more like Carter, baffled and confused at Jack’s (actually valid) mood swings.
A) this isn’t age gap at all so why is it tagged that?
B) the book while it’s fun to read (and I did enjoy it a lot) but it was like whiplash with Jack, who I actually really really liked switching his mind based on .2 seconds of information every five seconds. My neck got a crick in it from how fast his moods changed. Once you get his back story and how angry and scared he is, it makes more sense, but by that point you are 75% of the way in.
C) Carter was actually kind of a red flag, he was a good guy but on paper he doesn’t work with Jack’s trauma and I feel like they are going to keep triggering each other. He basically never is there for Jack in a meaningful way and until the end mostly (if unintentionally) thinks with his man downstairs more than his brain 🧠
D) the title name is terrible, as is the art.
E) it made no sense that’s Carter’s puckbunny girlfriend would cheat on him and release the video- what is she a cartoon villain? But his family likes her? Again whiplash’s
Overall this could have easily been 5 stars with some tweaking. The emotional distance Jack showed the world, was reflected in how he kept the reader at arms length as well. You feel more like Carter, baffled and confused at Jack’s (actually valid) mood swings.
June 4, 2025
3/5 stars 2/5 spice
There were some pretty heavy topics in this. Poor Jack had been through so much without any help from anyone, especially those who were supposed to love him unconditionally.
To be honest I was expecting a bigger reaction from Carter once Jack told him everything about his past, but instead he messed up and ended up losing Jack. I was actually pretty happy to see him grovelling and Jack not forgiving him right away.
I wish we got to see them more as a couple and some more romance between them, but I felt like the focus was more on other topics, especially when the Jeremy issue arose.
Overall, each character showed some growth and were able to focus on the important things in their lives.
- Friends to enemies to lovers
- Hockey teammates
- Queer awakening
- Tough childhood
There were some pretty heavy topics in this. Poor Jack had been through so much without any help from anyone, especially those who were supposed to love him unconditionally.
To be honest I was expecting a bigger reaction from Carter once Jack told him everything about his past, but instead he messed up and ended up losing Jack. I was actually pretty happy to see him grovelling and Jack not forgiving him right away.
I wish we got to see them more as a couple and some more romance between them, but I felt like the focus was more on other topics, especially when the Jeremy issue arose.
Overall, each character showed some growth and were able to focus on the important things in their lives.
- Friends to enemies to lovers
- Hockey teammates
- Queer awakening
- Tough childhood
June 18, 2025
This is one of those books that while you're reading it, give you all of the feels that you're certain once it's over it'll be the best thing you've ever read, or at least a great book. It happened here and it didn't.
Have you ever read something and the characters have way too much inner monologue before they do something that when you're reading it you're like "ugh get to the point!"
That's not to say that everyone is this way because I know a lot of people, Rinna Kent fans for example, HAVE to like inner monologue a lot because she's the inner monologue queen. Colleen Hoover and probably other really popular authors do the way too long inner monologues and that's why I don't read them.
So while I loved this book on an emotional level, I don't think the writing is THAT good and I think I just love it for the second chance, childhood crush enemies to lovers aspects because I'm a sucker for all of those tropes. I'd have to read another book from this author to see if it's just the author, or if it's just the book that made me even somewhat like it. This is the first book that I've read from this author so I can't judge the writing THAT much until I read another.
I can say that this book definitely has too much inner monologue to the point of pulling your hair out. The frustration I felt while reading wasn't worth the HEA. There wasn't as emotion as I would like but that's hard to find since if it was emotionally perfect, it would be a favorite and a 5 star. By bar is high for emotional books I admit, but there wasn't too much in this book no matter what my standards are.
I wanted MORE.
More passion, more moments between the men, more feelings.
You get an okay book but it's not great. You can't really enjoy reading this which is also an issue because the book was frustrating to me. Feeling frustrated takes the whole point of reading away from you because you read to relax and wind down you know?
Have you ever read something and the characters have way too much inner monologue before they do something that when you're reading it you're like "ugh get to the point!"
That's not to say that everyone is this way because I know a lot of people, Rinna Kent fans for example, HAVE to like inner monologue a lot because she's the inner monologue queen. Colleen Hoover and probably other really popular authors do the way too long inner monologues and that's why I don't read them.
So while I loved this book on an emotional level, I don't think the writing is THAT good and I think I just love it for the second chance, childhood crush enemies to lovers aspects because I'm a sucker for all of those tropes. I'd have to read another book from this author to see if it's just the author, or if it's just the book that made me even somewhat like it. This is the first book that I've read from this author so I can't judge the writing THAT much until I read another.
I can say that this book definitely has too much inner monologue to the point of pulling your hair out. The frustration I felt while reading wasn't worth the HEA. There wasn't as emotion as I would like but that's hard to find since if it was emotionally perfect, it would be a favorite and a 5 star. By bar is high for emotional books I admit, but there wasn't too much in this book no matter what my standards are.
I wanted MORE.
More passion, more moments between the men, more feelings.
You get an okay book but it's not great. You can't really enjoy reading this which is also an issue because the book was frustrating to me. Feeling frustrated takes the whole point of reading away from you because you read to relax and wind down you know?
October 28, 2025
Another Dean Winchester variant added to my collection. I loved the chemistry. I wish there was a bit more build up on the romance end though.
June 8, 2025
Ok, mixed reviews here.
I liked the storyline. But writing style is big let down. Is this debut book of this author? If yes then I hope she refines it much much more. I found the dialogues choppy, scenes disjointed and the story flow abrupt.
Although I liked the premise but the way it is written has made me feel frustrated with both the MCs :(
I liked the storyline. But writing style is big let down. Is this debut book of this author? If yes then I hope she refines it much much more. I found the dialogues choppy, scenes disjointed and the story flow abrupt.
Although I liked the premise but the way it is written has made me feel frustrated with both the MCs :(
June 15, 2025
3.50 stars
This is a tough one to rate. The story was full and a perfect hurt/comfort, enemies to lovers book. There was so much darkness to what Jack had gone through, but still, he never won me over with his attitude, even at the end. Carter was a classic closet case who made mistakes and tried throughout to mend them, even though some things came way out of the blue (view that first shower scene.. a literal wtf moment for the reader).
The story had everything I love in this type of book, but boy was the writing heavy handed. It did the story no favours. I'm not being mean to the author, this was my first book by them and I will most likely be reading more of them, it's just that it needed a little smoothing out.
This is a tough one to rate. The story was full and a perfect hurt/comfort, enemies to lovers book. There was so much darkness to what Jack had gone through, but still, he never won me over with his attitude, even at the end. Carter was a classic closet case who made mistakes and tried throughout to mend them, even though some things came way out of the blue (view that first shower scene.. a literal wtf moment for the reader).
The story had everything I love in this type of book, but boy was the writing heavy handed. It did the story no favours. I'm not being mean to the author, this was my first book by them and I will most likely be reading more of them, it's just that it needed a little smoothing out.
June 20, 2025
I am a miscommunication trope girlie but this was a bust.
Like you learn about this big huge traumatic thing that one MMC had happened to him. It’s continuously brought up but they don’t actually talk about it until the last 5%. And that’s after this MMC is like “I’m gonna adopt this kid bc we went through the same thing”?? Like bestie no. You need ✨ therapy ✨ so you can break the horrible cycle of coping mechanisms you have.
Another thing I hated was the forced coming out of the other MMC. The supposed love of his life breaks it off with him bc of a convo he overheard between him and his dad. It’s later revealed that this mmc’s ex is going to leak a video of them kissing, thus outing him before he has even come to terms with being gay (despite fucking women and finding them attractive, sexually and physically - really fucking confusing there bud), AND THERE IS ZERO DISCOURSE ABOUT IT. They just brush it over bc the other MMC’s story line is more important??? Get real. You can do both.
And how they “forgave” each other was fucking weird. Literally 0 things in this story made sense at all. I should have DNF’d to be honest but it was like a fucking car wreck I couldn’t stop.
Like you learn about this big huge traumatic thing that one MMC had happened to him. It’s continuously brought up but they don’t actually talk about it until the last 5%. And that’s after this MMC is like “I’m gonna adopt this kid bc we went through the same thing”?? Like bestie no. You need ✨ therapy ✨ so you can break the horrible cycle of coping mechanisms you have.
Another thing I hated was the forced coming out of the other MMC. The supposed love of his life breaks it off with him bc of a convo he overheard between him and his dad. It’s later revealed that this mmc’s ex is going to leak a video of them kissing, thus outing him before he has even come to terms with being gay (despite fucking women and finding them attractive, sexually and physically - really fucking confusing there bud), AND THERE IS ZERO DISCOURSE ABOUT IT. They just brush it over bc the other MMC’s story line is more important??? Get real. You can do both.
And how they “forgave” each other was fucking weird. Literally 0 things in this story made sense at all. I should have DNF’d to be honest but it was like a fucking car wreck I couldn’t stop.
July 1, 2025
I was going to rate this two stars, but then I finished the book, and the two MCs got back together, and that ruined the last of my good will.
I have a lot to say about this one.
The writing was...passable. At first. It worsened with time. And it needed more edits because there were a lot of little mistakes like typos and repetitive wording, but it also had bigger issues.
The characters' inner monologues were extremely long and repetitive, and I had to skim a lot of it, especially early on, because they just kept saying the same things over and over and over and over That could have been trimmed down a lot to give more time for their relationship to develop. The characters' moods shifted so fast at times that it was difficult to follow. Conversations were all over the place, and the dialogue just didn't flow well and was often really clunky and forced and awkward. And it could have used a bit more setting and atmosphere. Or like...any. There was a lot of white room syndrome.
The characters had good tension until they got together. They just weren't good together. Carter wasn't very supportive, and Jack was trying to force him out of the closet, and it just didn't fit. They were both too self-involved. Also, Jack is waving some emotionally abusive red flags that I don't love. He goes completely off the handle at the slightest hint of rejection and viciously tries to hurt and tear down Carter. The man needs therapy, not a boyfriend and foster child that he can continue the cycle of abuse with. And Carter is just...ugh. When they broke up, it felt right. It's not often when I'm reading a romance, and when the third act breakup happens, I think "Well, it's for the best."
And then there was the CPS plot.
The refusal of every responsible adult in this kid's life to call CPS when they saw bruises around his NECK was the most infuriating thing I have read in a long time. Made me genuinely hate every character in an instant. Except Jack, I guess, but I have separate issues with him (and he also did not call CPS when he should have).
At one point, they were pretty much victim blaming this child and saying that if he needed help, he should ask. A child. Who is being abused by his father. They just want to ignore his severe injuries (bruises around his neck. I cannot emphasize that enough) because oh, well, he never asked for help, so it's really his own fault if his father murders him. After refusing to call CPS, Carter said that Jack should have just let the authorities handle it. Oh, like CPS? Who, at that point, they still refused to call. Because they didn't have "evidence". I guess if the kid doesn't get his abuse on high def video, he's out of luck. That's why doctors and teachers notoriously are told to ignore any signs of repeated injuries on a child. Don't they dare waste CPS's time with nonsense like that. CPS will only act if you have done an investigation with hard evidence (bruises are obviously not evidence) and an abused, terrified child who is totally cool with testifying against their parent. Little brats need to learn to speak up if they want anyone to care.
By the way, the father pretty much confessed to hitting him to "toughen him up", and every single adult present completely ignored it. They also ignored him shoving his inured child in front of multiple witnesses (and paparazzi) . And STILL insisted that they needed "evidence" and didn't believe that there was any abuse happening. Not sure I have the same definition of evidence that they do.
And did they seriously not have the kid's contact info? I know the program is free, but people are leaving their children in their care. Playing a very dangerous sport too. They don't keep emergency contact information?
Carter's forced outing was weirdly just...nothing. No one gave a shit about it. And Livvie's rage at him came out of nowhere. Also, I do not like the gay-for-you trope. Especially since Carter randomly decided he was gay despite never having any attraction to any other man. Like, I guess he is only attracted to Jack. Why?
The author could have done more research into CPS. Also maybe should have researched hockey too.
I have a lot to say about this one.
The writing was...passable. At first. It worsened with time. And it needed more edits because there were a lot of little mistakes like typos and repetitive wording, but it also had bigger issues.
The characters' inner monologues were extremely long and repetitive, and I had to skim a lot of it, especially early on, because they just kept saying the same things over and over and over and over That could have been trimmed down a lot to give more time for their relationship to develop. The characters' moods shifted so fast at times that it was difficult to follow. Conversations were all over the place, and the dialogue just didn't flow well and was often really clunky and forced and awkward. And it could have used a bit more setting and atmosphere. Or like...any. There was a lot of white room syndrome.
The characters had good tension until they got together. They just weren't good together. Carter wasn't very supportive, and Jack was trying to force him out of the closet, and it just didn't fit. They were both too self-involved. Also, Jack is waving some emotionally abusive red flags that I don't love. He goes completely off the handle at the slightest hint of rejection and viciously tries to hurt and tear down Carter. The man needs therapy, not a boyfriend and foster child that he can continue the cycle of abuse with. And Carter is just...ugh. When they broke up, it felt right. It's not often when I'm reading a romance, and when the third act breakup happens, I think "Well, it's for the best."
And then there was the CPS plot.
The refusal of every responsible adult in this kid's life to call CPS when they saw bruises around his NECK was the most infuriating thing I have read in a long time. Made me genuinely hate every character in an instant. Except Jack, I guess, but I have separate issues with him (and he also did not call CPS when he should have).
At one point, they were pretty much victim blaming this child and saying that if he needed help, he should ask. A child. Who is being abused by his father. They just want to ignore his severe injuries (bruises around his neck. I cannot emphasize that enough) because oh, well, he never asked for help, so it's really his own fault if his father murders him. After refusing to call CPS, Carter said that Jack should have just let the authorities handle it. Oh, like CPS? Who, at that point, they still refused to call. Because they didn't have "evidence". I guess if the kid doesn't get his abuse on high def video, he's out of luck. That's why doctors and teachers notoriously are told to ignore any signs of repeated injuries on a child. Don't they dare waste CPS's time with nonsense like that. CPS will only act if you have done an investigation with hard evidence (bruises are obviously not evidence) and an abused, terrified child who is totally cool with testifying against their parent. Little brats need to learn to speak up if they want anyone to care.
By the way, the father pretty much confessed to hitting him to "toughen him up", and every single adult present completely ignored it. They also ignored him shoving his inured child in front of multiple witnesses (and paparazzi) . And STILL insisted that they needed "evidence" and didn't believe that there was any abuse happening. Not sure I have the same definition of evidence that they do.
And did they seriously not have the kid's contact info? I know the program is free, but people are leaving their children in their care. Playing a very dangerous sport too. They don't keep emergency contact information?
Carter's forced outing was weirdly just...nothing. No one gave a shit about it. And Livvie's rage at him came out of nowhere. Also, I do not like the gay-for-you trope. Especially since Carter randomly decided he was gay despite never having any attraction to any other man. Like, I guess he is only attracted to Jack. Why?
The author could have done more research into CPS. Also maybe should have researched hockey too.
June 13, 2025
What a fantastic book! This is the first book I've read from this author, Brooklyn Cate, and definitely won't be the last. Her wonderful writing completely and utterly sucked me in.
The opening chapter from Jack's POV was excellent, laying down so many titbits to draw us in. It had me totally hooked. The next chapter from Carter was just as engaging, showing his anger and confusion about his feelings towards Jack, exaggerated by the latter antagonising him after feeling so hurt from a past incident. As the story progresses, it becomes clear why Jack's always been wearing a mask to protect himself from others.
I loved Jack and Carter's connection, the pull that constantly brings them together, even when Carter doesn't really understand it. Their initial interactions, heavy with anger and hurt, simmer with sexual tension. Brooklyn then plays with us for a bit: the two get along one moment, and then they're at each other's throats again.
Despite being on his own for most of his life, Jack shows incredible strength and force of will, and has achieved much professionally, despite struggling with his own personal demons. His mask to hide his pain and keep him safe from further hurt has always been pretty secure before coming face-to-face with Carter again. I love the following quote from him:
"Yeah, I can put on a good show when I need to, to be Mr Congeniality, and charm the panties off a nun, but behind the fake smiles, it's all barbed wire and electric fences. Especially in the area of my heart."
Carter, on the other hand, is weighed down by his insecurities and self doubt, and he gets frustrated when people focus on the fact that he previously played with Jack rather than how he's worked hard to get himself to where he is now. One of my favourite quotes from him:
"Like my hard work and dedication meant shit to our success."
As I got closer to the final pages, it felt as though Jack and Carter may never get a happy ending and just the thought was heartbreaking when Jack's had to suffer through so much in his life (as you can probably tell, I absolutely adored his character!). My heart was in my throat near the end - what a dramatic conclusion to an amazing book!
This has become one of my favourite books. I've certainly been through all the emotions and that's exactly what a good book should do.
I did notice a few spelling/grammar mistakes, but I chose not to let it affect my enjoyment of the book.
The opening chapter from Jack's POV was excellent, laying down so many titbits to draw us in. It had me totally hooked. The next chapter from Carter was just as engaging, showing his anger and confusion about his feelings towards Jack, exaggerated by the latter antagonising him after feeling so hurt from a past incident. As the story progresses, it becomes clear why Jack's always been wearing a mask to protect himself from others.
I loved Jack and Carter's connection, the pull that constantly brings them together, even when Carter doesn't really understand it. Their initial interactions, heavy with anger and hurt, simmer with sexual tension. Brooklyn then plays with us for a bit: the two get along one moment, and then they're at each other's throats again.
Despite being on his own for most of his life, Jack shows incredible strength and force of will, and has achieved much professionally, despite struggling with his own personal demons. His mask to hide his pain and keep him safe from further hurt has always been pretty secure before coming face-to-face with Carter again. I love the following quote from him:
"Yeah, I can put on a good show when I need to, to be Mr Congeniality, and charm the panties off a nun, but behind the fake smiles, it's all barbed wire and electric fences. Especially in the area of my heart."
Carter, on the other hand, is weighed down by his insecurities and self doubt, and he gets frustrated when people focus on the fact that he previously played with Jack rather than how he's worked hard to get himself to where he is now. One of my favourite quotes from him:
"Like my hard work and dedication meant shit to our success."
As I got closer to the final pages, it felt as though Jack and Carter may never get a happy ending and just the thought was heartbreaking when Jack's had to suffer through so much in his life (as you can probably tell, I absolutely adored his character!). My heart was in my throat near the end - what a dramatic conclusion to an amazing book!
This has become one of my favourite books. I've certainly been through all the emotions and that's exactly what a good book should do.
I did notice a few spelling/grammar mistakes, but I chose not to let it affect my enjoyment of the book.
December 16, 2025
Umm. Missed opportunity
**some spoilers***
Ok so I understand this is the first book this author wrote. I definitely think the story between these two characters is great but the progression of their actual Love story was almost a dnf for me. First starters I did not like the shaming of the puck bunnies, I don't think it's a necessary thing to do to make the storyline more interesting especially when it's men that engage in most romance books with puck bunnies and they're all fine up until they find the love of their lives there's just no need to offend them to make the book more interesting. They hadn't seen each other in so many years the progression from rivals to lovers was very rough. There was a lot of the same complaining on their dual points of views on the same issues for the first half of the book. Which was extremely repetitive and it kind of reminded me of hallmark movies. Carter's character development was the most troubling for me because it went from 0 to 100 in no time especially in the steamy scenes. Towards 70% of the book Jack realizes his strong feelings towards Carter and again from 0 to 100 based on what had been written prior. I am writing a review because someone who has limited time to escape into the world of romance I don't want to feel like I'm wasting my time. Maybe the algorithm push this book based on my reading but it's not aligned with what I've been reading for the past year on mm romances. This book might be liked by a lot of people so obviously if you are curious from the blurb 100% go for it.
**some spoilers***
Ok so I understand this is the first book this author wrote. I definitely think the story between these two characters is great but the progression of their actual Love story was almost a dnf for me. First starters I did not like the shaming of the puck bunnies, I don't think it's a necessary thing to do to make the storyline more interesting especially when it's men that engage in most romance books with puck bunnies and they're all fine up until they find the love of their lives there's just no need to offend them to make the book more interesting. They hadn't seen each other in so many years the progression from rivals to lovers was very rough. There was a lot of the same complaining on their dual points of views on the same issues for the first half of the book. Which was extremely repetitive and it kind of reminded me of hallmark movies. Carter's character development was the most troubling for me because it went from 0 to 100 in no time especially in the steamy scenes. Towards 70% of the book Jack realizes his strong feelings towards Carter and again from 0 to 100 based on what had been written prior. I am writing a review because someone who has limited time to escape into the world of romance I don't want to feel like I'm wasting my time. Maybe the algorithm push this book based on my reading but it's not aligned with what I've been reading for the past year on mm romances. This book might be liked by a lot of people so obviously if you are curious from the blurb 100% go for it.
June 26, 2025
Research Hockey before writing Hockey Romance
The author really needs to get a hockey auditor for this book and the future series. The beginning took me out with all of the blatant errors about the minors (which is what I think she was trying to get to). In the US the track record old have been through USA hockey into possible Major Juniors in Canada or NCAA in the US to potentially get drafted by a NHL team and much would have landed the main character into the AHL. Anything else would have been through free agency after he aged out of the draft which is 21+. Additionally, no team would switch out a goalie at 2-2 in game 7 of a conference championship with less than 2 in the game. They would go into OT. Outside of hockey there is no way CPS leaves an abused kid with an unmarried professional athlete and his rockstar boyfriend until the other professional athlete at the center of an assault and attempted murder case with the kids dad, can take custody. Just not happening in any reality. Also the fact that the outing of Carter was done so callously and then brushed over like it’s nothing was really weird. Jack needed therapy before a relationship. He said that what he overheard Carter saying was the worst thing that had ever happened but this guy’s dad had literally beaten him and put a gun to his head and he was in the hospital getting over a gunshot from someone else. That speaks to major damage that should be addressed. Carter deserves better.
The author really needs to get a hockey auditor for this book and the future series. The beginning took me out with all of the blatant errors about the minors (which is what I think she was trying to get to). In the US the track record old have been through USA hockey into possible Major Juniors in Canada or NCAA in the US to potentially get drafted by a NHL team and much would have landed the main character into the AHL. Anything else would have been through free agency after he aged out of the draft which is 21+. Additionally, no team would switch out a goalie at 2-2 in game 7 of a conference championship with less than 2 in the game. They would go into OT. Outside of hockey there is no way CPS leaves an abused kid with an unmarried professional athlete and his rockstar boyfriend until the other professional athlete at the center of an assault and attempted murder case with the kids dad, can take custody. Just not happening in any reality. Also the fact that the outing of Carter was done so callously and then brushed over like it’s nothing was really weird. Jack needed therapy before a relationship. He said that what he overheard Carter saying was the worst thing that had ever happened but this guy’s dad had literally beaten him and put a gun to his head and he was in the hospital getting over a gunshot from someone else. That speaks to major damage that should be addressed. Carter deserves better.
August 28, 2025
I can’t stand Carter and think this book really suffered having him as a main character.
Carter is a starting NFL player whose whole vibe is complaining he’s not good enough. He was captain of his last team, which they don’t give to shit players, and is being told to be a leader to the younger guys on this new team and his response is “they think I’m bad and just want me to help out”. It’s exhausting.
The romance was almost nonexistent. Jack and Carter have sex a bunch but that’s really it. Jack can’t make up his mind if he wants Carter or not, Carter can’t decide if Jack’s worth ruining his career for or not (even though that’s not really even a worry until all the drama happens). Back and forth for the whole story.
I found everyone too dismissive of everything, sans Jack. Nobody cared that Jeremy was being abused, Jack was right they could’ve reported it to CPS, before the assault, but Sam didn’t seem to give a crap. Carters dad has made him feel inferior his whole life and has rubbed his obsession with Jack in Carter’s face but one conversation at the end and all is well, I’m so proud of you. Completely forgetting that he’s been emotionally ruining Carter and his self esteem for years.
This wasn’t good and I’m annoyed I read til the end. We get a single chapter of them being happy, barely.
Carter is a starting NFL player whose whole vibe is complaining he’s not good enough. He was captain of his last team, which they don’t give to shit players, and is being told to be a leader to the younger guys on this new team and his response is “they think I’m bad and just want me to help out”. It’s exhausting.
The romance was almost nonexistent. Jack and Carter have sex a bunch but that’s really it. Jack can’t make up his mind if he wants Carter or not, Carter can’t decide if Jack’s worth ruining his career for or not (even though that’s not really even a worry until all the drama happens). Back and forth for the whole story.
I found everyone too dismissive of everything, sans Jack. Nobody cared that Jeremy was being abused, Jack was right they could’ve reported it to CPS, before the assault, but Sam didn’t seem to give a crap. Carters dad has made him feel inferior his whole life and has rubbed his obsession with Jack in Carter’s face but one conversation at the end and all is well, I’m so proud of you. Completely forgetting that he’s been emotionally ruining Carter and his self esteem for years.
This wasn’t good and I’m annoyed I read til the end. We get a single chapter of them being happy, barely.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2025
This is the first book in the Dirty Puck series and I really enjoyed it. The book is written well and is easy to read. This is the story of Jack Larson and Carter Van Kleef. The two first met at junior hockey camp. An incident happened that they never discussed before they went their separate ways. The unfinished business is in between them every time they met in the NHL. Well they now have no where to run. Both have been traded to the Oakland Raptors whether they like it or not. The coach seeing the tension, makes the two of them room together for all the on the road games. Either they will sort themselves out or they will explode. At least the tension will be gone for the rest of the team. This is their story. I enjoyed the book. Your heart will break when you read about Jack's life. It helps you to understand why he reacts the way that he does to certain situations. And Carter has demons of his own to conquer. I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review. I look forward to the next book in this series.
June 9, 2025
Puck Lust by Brooklyn Cate is an emotional, steamy enemies-to-lovers hockey romance with layers of heartache, healing, and heat.
Jack’s traumatic past and resilience absolutely gutted me—he’s been through so much, with no real support from those who should’ve protected him. Watching him slowly open up and trust again was such a powerful part of this story.
I was actually glad to see Carter have to grovel after messing up—Jack deserved that space and the chance to reclaim some control over his life. I only wish we’d seen more of them as a couple after all the tension was finally resolved.
The found-family/team dynamics were a highlight—supportive, funny, and full of heart. And the unresolved tension between Jack and Carter? Chef’s kiss. The yearning and angst were delicious.
If you love hockey romance with:
🏒 Friends to enemies to lovers
🏒 Queer awakening
🏒 Tough childhood healing arcs
🏒 Forced proximity & team camaraderie
—this one is a must-read.
A gripping mix of steam, heart, and hope—Puck Lust is a story that stays with you long after the final whistle blows.
Jack’s traumatic past and resilience absolutely gutted me—he’s been through so much, with no real support from those who should’ve protected him. Watching him slowly open up and trust again was such a powerful part of this story.
I was actually glad to see Carter have to grovel after messing up—Jack deserved that space and the chance to reclaim some control over his life. I only wish we’d seen more of them as a couple after all the tension was finally resolved.
The found-family/team dynamics were a highlight—supportive, funny, and full of heart. And the unresolved tension between Jack and Carter? Chef’s kiss. The yearning and angst were delicious.
If you love hockey romance with:
🏒 Friends to enemies to lovers
🏒 Queer awakening
🏒 Tough childhood healing arcs
🏒 Forced proximity & team camaraderie
—this one is a must-read.
A gripping mix of steam, heart, and hope—Puck Lust is a story that stays with you long after the final whistle blows.
June 11, 2025
4.5 stars!
This is book one in the author’s new Dirty Puck Series and is a friends to enemies to lovers, hurt/comfort romance and it will. Rip. Your. Heart OUT!!
Jack alone broke my heart. I swear, I wanted to knock the living HAIL out of everyone who had ever hurt or failed that precious man, beginning with his parents! And Carter, he had struggles of his own; sweet man.
Readers should know this definitely wasn’t a fluffy, feel good read but, even so, I couldn’t put it down (and that’s from someone who prefers no/low angst reads). I’m also not too proud to say I bawled my dang eyes out for these two guys. They were just so sweet and each were struggling with their own issues so I couldn’t pick a favorite, I just fell in love with both of ‘em…I don’t really see how anyone can NOT fall for them. A must read, 4.5 stars!
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is book one in the author’s new Dirty Puck Series and is a friends to enemies to lovers, hurt/comfort romance and it will. Rip. Your. Heart OUT!!
Jack alone broke my heart. I swear, I wanted to knock the living HAIL out of everyone who had ever hurt or failed that precious man, beginning with his parents! And Carter, he had struggles of his own; sweet man.
Readers should know this definitely wasn’t a fluffy, feel good read but, even so, I couldn’t put it down (and that’s from someone who prefers no/low angst reads). I’m also not too proud to say I bawled my dang eyes out for these two guys. They were just so sweet and each were struggling with their own issues so I couldn’t pick a favorite, I just fell in love with both of ‘em…I don’t really see how anyone can NOT fall for them. A must read, 4.5 stars!
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 5, 2025
What a great start of this series!
This book had me hooked from the blurb. I love sports romance and second chances.
Jack really had a rough childhood. All his life he had to be on his own. Nobody to care for him, nobody to trust. And the one time he trusts someone, it blows up in his face.
His and Carter relationship was a complicated one. They both made assumptions about each other’s feelings that tore them apart. If only they knew a little word called communication😅
It was frustrating seeing them fight what they felt for each other. I can’t deny that Jack had a right to be pissed at Carter, but Carter never gave up on them. He knew Jack was worth fighting for. They found a way to make their relationship work.
I truly enjoyed this story. My heart broke for Jack. He deserves all the happiness in this world after everything he went through.
This book had me hooked from the blurb. I love sports romance and second chances.
Jack really had a rough childhood. All his life he had to be on his own. Nobody to care for him, nobody to trust. And the one time he trusts someone, it blows up in his face.
His and Carter relationship was a complicated one. They both made assumptions about each other’s feelings that tore them apart. If only they knew a little word called communication😅
It was frustrating seeing them fight what they felt for each other. I can’t deny that Jack had a right to be pissed at Carter, but Carter never gave up on them. He knew Jack was worth fighting for. They found a way to make their relationship work.
I truly enjoyed this story. My heart broke for Jack. He deserves all the happiness in this world after everything he went through.
October 2, 2025
Tropes
* M/M
* Hockey
* Grumpy/sunshine
* hate to love
* age gap
* forced proximity
*Hurt/comfort
* MC with traumatic past
*second Chance romance
This is Jack's book. He's had it rough. Feels alone, and like he can't trust or rely on anyone. He let his guard down once with Carter, and it came back to bite him. Carter doesn't think he is worthy of love from anyone, including Jack. They had a past together, but nothing came of it because it wasn't the right time. But now that they are older, more mature, can things be different this time? You would have to read it and find out
It was a beautiful second-chance romance. I loved seeing their relationship grown and bloom into a relationship full of love and respect.
Hockey romance will always have a special place in my heart, and I can't wait for more from this series!
* M/M
* Hockey
* Grumpy/sunshine
* hate to love
* age gap
* forced proximity
*Hurt/comfort
* MC with traumatic past
*second Chance romance
This is Jack's book. He's had it rough. Feels alone, and like he can't trust or rely on anyone. He let his guard down once with Carter, and it came back to bite him. Carter doesn't think he is worthy of love from anyone, including Jack. They had a past together, but nothing came of it because it wasn't the right time. But now that they are older, more mature, can things be different this time? You would have to read it and find out
It was a beautiful second-chance romance. I loved seeing their relationship grown and bloom into a relationship full of love and respect.
Hockey romance will always have a special place in my heart, and I can't wait for more from this series!
May 30, 2025
This was a good read. I'm not usually one for a second chance romance, and yet I ate this one up. I really loved Carter in this one. Jack was so sweet and just broken. I really loved his back story as well. It was heartbreaking. I absolutely love reading about broken boys. I think it's even worse to know this does happen in real life. Despite this being a romance, it also makes you think. I loved it. The romance was beautiful and that ending was perfect.
June 8, 2025
I enjoyed most facets of this book. I liked Jack the most. I thought he was a compelling character and his entire character arc was really interesting and kinda propelled the story along. Carter was fine as a character, but I didn't find him quite as engaging. I thought they story toward the end also moved a bit fast, while the rest of the story moved a much slower, more stable pace, which is always a small irritation. Overall, though, this was an interesting book and a pretty decent read.
June 9, 2025
Jack has had a rough life.
He's never been able to depend on anyone but himself.
He let his guard down once and it ended up hurting him badly.
Carter really struggles with believing he's worthy of anyone's attention or love.
They almost had a moment together a few years back but it wasn't the right time.
Now they're both older and have grown.
It was really beautiful to see them work their way towards love and a healthy relationship.
He's never been able to depend on anyone but himself.
He let his guard down once and it ended up hurting him badly.
Carter really struggles with believing he's worthy of anyone's attention or love.
They almost had a moment together a few years back but it wasn't the right time.
Now they're both older and have grown.
It was really beautiful to see them work their way towards love and a healthy relationship.
June 13, 2025
I was excited to read this one, but it came hard and fast that this just wasn't going to be a good fit for me. I found the lack of communication between every single character completely OTT. The way the two MC's basically burned themselves to the ground before even having a conversation about their long, brutal past? And the traumatic experiences being rehashed over and over and over. I just wasn't into any of it.
August 31, 2025
omg there was so much drama in this story
there was a lot of suspense which I liked, but I felt like it distracted from the romance aspect. I feel like there wasn't enough fluff between them because there was either something action packed going on or jack was distancing. but at least they got together at the end. the whole thing with Jeremy was gut-wrenching but I'm glad jack stood his ground.
there was a lot of suspense which I liked, but I felt like it distracted from the romance aspect. I feel like there wasn't enough fluff between them because there was either something action packed going on or jack was distancing. but at least they got together at the end. the whole thing with Jeremy was gut-wrenching but I'm glad jack stood his ground.
June 1, 2025
This is a MM story line, second chance romance and almost want to say grump. I really enjoyed the story line. It showed great character growth for them and the length Carter went to get him back. This is a hockey story line and all the team member are supportive of them! Jack went through so much and came out on top.
June 2, 2025
Puck Lust is the first book in the Dirty Puck series and my first read by this author and I was absolutely obsessed with this book from the very first page.
This is the story of Jack and Carter, Jack's backstory is absolutely heartbreaking and I really loved him as a character and his journey with Carter was absolutely amazing. I loved these two so much and truly did not want this book to end.
This is the story of Jack and Carter, Jack's backstory is absolutely heartbreaking and I really loved him as a character and his journey with Carter was absolutely amazing. I loved these two so much and truly did not want this book to end.
June 10, 2025
I enjoyed the characters, the story, and finding yourself and the one that was truly meant for you.
The past may come back to haunt you but when you have the right partner and team behind you, you can face anything.
A great story with one man trying to figure out who he truly is, and another coming to terms with his past and letting someone in all the way.
The past may come back to haunt you but when you have the right partner and team behind you, you can face anything.
A great story with one man trying to figure out who he truly is, and another coming to terms with his past and letting someone in all the way.
June 11, 2025
This is the first book in the Dirty Puck series and is the story of Jack Larson and Carter Van Kleef.
What a great start of this series. This book had me hooked from the first page. I love sports romance and second chances.
I enjoyed the characters, the story, and finding yourself and the one that was truly meant for you. I'm looking forward to more in this series.
What a great start of this series. This book had me hooked from the first page. I love sports romance and second chances.
I enjoyed the characters, the story, and finding yourself and the one that was truly meant for you. I'm looking forward to more in this series.
July 26, 2025
the style of writing really annoyed me at first. was going to dnf it. but i just had to see what jack's secret was. it was a surprise. and worth waiting for. but the extended inner monologs of Jack and Carter were just a bit too detailed. I felt like i was reading the same thing in 20 different ways!
September 18, 2025
Only made it 100 pages in and had to give up on it unfortunately, wish I would have read the reviews before starting it. Very much repeating the same lines word for word back and forth repeatedly and the dialogue was so choppy I had a hard time getting through it.
Amazon insisted I must read this book but I’d say it’s a flop for me.
Amazon insisted I must read this book but I’d say it’s a flop for me.
June 14, 2025
🖤🖤🖤
Hockey romance books have a special place in my heart. I really liked the story for this one and the fact that everything fell into place. Found family, over coming past traumas and the start of something new ❤️❤️
Hockey romance books have a special place in my heart. I really liked the story for this one and the fact that everything fell into place. Found family, over coming past traumas and the start of something new ❤️❤️
September 20, 2025
Enjoyed it
This was a good read, became a little confusing in places but didn’t take away my enjoyment of the book, my heart aches for Jack so very much and I love the character development we saw with him. Carter is a sweetheart
This was a good read, became a little confusing in places but didn’t take away my enjoyment of the book, my heart aches for Jack so very much and I love the character development we saw with him. Carter is a sweetheart
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