What do you think?
Rate this book
Green Bay Bobcats #1
Behind the Bench
Ellie Montgomery has worked her entire life for this moment—taking the ice not as a player, but as the assistant coach of the NHL’s Green Bay Bobcats.
She’ll finally be able to prove to everyone that she belongs in this world. A man’s world.
Lincoln Scott has fought through adversity and against all odds to become the youngest NHL head coach in history.
With much to prove, they are both ready to show the world they’ve earned their spots.
Only their dreams quickly turn into nightmares.
After Lincoln and Ellie discover they’ll be coaching together, old grudges surface and insults fly between these former childhood rivals, begging the question, Is the Bobcats’ season doomed?
Will their past dictate their future?
But heated words become heated thoughts, and Lincoln and Ellie quickly learn…
There’s a fine line between lust and hate.
Can these two keep the fire burning between them a secret? Or are they destined to burn each other to the ground?
She’ll finally be able to prove to everyone that she belongs in this world. A man’s world.
Lincoln Scott has fought through adversity and against all odds to become the youngest NHL head coach in history.
With much to prove, they are both ready to show the world they’ve earned their spots.
Only their dreams quickly turn into nightmares.
After Lincoln and Ellie discover they’ll be coaching together, old grudges surface and insults fly between these former childhood rivals, begging the question, Is the Bobcats’ season doomed?
Will their past dictate their future?
But heated words become heated thoughts, and Lincoln and Ellie quickly learn…
There’s a fine line between lust and hate.
Can these two keep the fire burning between them a secret? Or are they destined to burn each other to the ground?
392 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 3, 2025
151 people are currently reading
1142 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 288 reviews
June 2, 2025
I loved that Behind The Bench focused on the coaches rather than the players in this hockey romance. It was great to have a really different perspective and it was even better to have BOTH the main characters, male and female, be hockey players-turned-coaches.
Ellie and Lincoln had been childhood rivals as youth hockey players in Michigan, but went their very separate ways after high school. We gradually get both of their backstories and both of them had traumatic childhoods, but in very different ways. Ellie went on to play for the US Olympic team and then the PWHL (which was only founded in 2023, so I guess this book takes place in the near future), and then started coaching. She’s now extremely excited to be one of the very few females in any coaching position in the NHL. Lincoln played hockey in college and then the NHL but an injury ended his playing career and he transitioned to coaching.
They are both dismayed when it turns out they are going to have to work together to coach the NHL team out of Green Bay, Wisconsin, with Lincoln as Head Coach and Ellie as Assistant Coach - they pretty much hated each other when they were young.
Needless to say, since this is a romance novel, things change between them! I loved (almost) all the side characters and am looking forward to future books focusing on a couple of other potential couples.
Warning: There’s a LOT of spice in this book, both verbal and physical, so be warned about that. (To be honest, I thought there was too much of it, but that’s my personal take.) There’s also discussion of past abuse by a parent.
All in all, a great debut by author Jillian Arly!
Thank you to the author and Literary Media Tours for the chance to read an advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Ellie and Lincoln had been childhood rivals as youth hockey players in Michigan, but went their very separate ways after high school. We gradually get both of their backstories and both of them had traumatic childhoods, but in very different ways. Ellie went on to play for the US Olympic team and then the PWHL (which was only founded in 2023, so I guess this book takes place in the near future), and then started coaching. She’s now extremely excited to be one of the very few females in any coaching position in the NHL. Lincoln played hockey in college and then the NHL but an injury ended his playing career and he transitioned to coaching.
They are both dismayed when it turns out they are going to have to work together to coach the NHL team out of Green Bay, Wisconsin, with Lincoln as Head Coach and Ellie as Assistant Coach - they pretty much hated each other when they were young.
Needless to say, since this is a romance novel, things change between them! I loved (almost) all the side characters and am looking forward to future books focusing on a couple of other potential couples.
Warning: There’s a LOT of spice in this book, both verbal and physical, so be warned about that. (To be honest, I thought there was too much of it, but that’s my personal take.) There’s also discussion of past abuse by a parent.
All in all, a great debut by author Jillian Arly!
Thank you to the author and Literary Media Tours for the chance to read an advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
May 22, 2025
Ellie + Lincoln
-hockey romance
-coach/assistant coach
-childhood rivals
-enemies to lovers
-secret relationship
yall it was SO GOODDD!!! woman in male dominated field, she becomes the assistant coach to a pro NHL team. her & the head coach were career rivals that now have to coach together & have BURNINGGG tension! he becomes such a protective hot daddyyyy while trying to give her the space to hold her own navigating the sexiest derogatory shit that gets thrown at her naturally & fuck. i literally was just flat out crying at work at how special some of the scenes were!! it was just sooooo empoweringggg omg!! i can't believe this was jillian's debut novel!! it was beautiful!
-hockey romance
-coach/assistant coach
-childhood rivals
-enemies to lovers
-secret relationship
yall it was SO GOODDD!!! woman in male dominated field, she becomes the assistant coach to a pro NHL team. her & the head coach were career rivals that now have to coach together & have BURNINGGG tension! he becomes such a protective hot daddyyyy while trying to give her the space to hold her own navigating the sexiest derogatory shit that gets thrown at her naturally & fuck. i literally was just flat out crying at work at how special some of the scenes were!! it was just sooooo empoweringggg omg!! i can't believe this was jillian's debut novel!! it was beautiful!
June 3, 2025
Book Title: Behind the Bench
Author(s): Jillian Arly
Publisher(s): Self (Jillian Arly Publishing)
🍿 𝘍𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘐𝘮𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴: I was incredibly excited when I saw Jillian had a debut novel, especially one that is set in Green Bay, WI. I loved this book from the very beginning, and it was such an easy-to-binge read. Hockey romance is quickly becoming one of my favorites, and thanks to Ellie and Lincoln, this might be my favorite in the trope so far!
🤩 The Best Bits: The characters shine so brightly in this story, and I couldn’t help but love them. Besides Ellie and Lincoln, Arly filled this book with likeable characters and not a single one was weak or indecisive. Ellie is truly a badass boss, and her friendship with Sadie made my heart so happy. The romance itself has a ton of depth, but I loved that it wasn’t the only focus of the book. I felt like I learned a lot about hockey that I didn’t know, and the sport is brought to life perfectly. I didn’t know prior to reading this that Arly plays hockey, and that just made this hit so much harder.
💭 𝘊𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘛𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴: While I noticed some slight repetition in the book (just repeated phrases occasionally) that doesn’t take away from the story and I am so impressed by this debut! Especially the fact that it is self-published. Arly is a talent for sure, and I couldn’t be happier that this is the start of a series. If you love romance with killer female boss babe energy, solid friendships, and emotional moments blended effortlessly with humor you would be doing yourself a disservice by not reading this stunning novel.
T͏h͏i͏s͏ B͏o͏o͏k͏ i͏n͏ 5͏ E͏m͏o͏j͏i͏’s͏ o͏r͏ L͏e͏s͏s͏: 🏒🧘🏼♀️📱🚿🥰
𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝙼𝚢 𝚂𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚎 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: 🌶️🌶️.5
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Author(s): Jillian Arly
Publisher(s): Self (Jillian Arly Publishing)
🍿 𝘍𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘐𝘮𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴: I was incredibly excited when I saw Jillian had a debut novel, especially one that is set in Green Bay, WI. I loved this book from the very beginning, and it was such an easy-to-binge read. Hockey romance is quickly becoming one of my favorites, and thanks to Ellie and Lincoln, this might be my favorite in the trope so far!
🤩 The Best Bits: The characters shine so brightly in this story, and I couldn’t help but love them. Besides Ellie and Lincoln, Arly filled this book with likeable characters and not a single one was weak or indecisive. Ellie is truly a badass boss, and her friendship with Sadie made my heart so happy. The romance itself has a ton of depth, but I loved that it wasn’t the only focus of the book. I felt like I learned a lot about hockey that I didn’t know, and the sport is brought to life perfectly. I didn’t know prior to reading this that Arly plays hockey, and that just made this hit so much harder.
💭 𝘊𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘛𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴: While I noticed some slight repetition in the book (just repeated phrases occasionally) that doesn’t take away from the story and I am so impressed by this debut! Especially the fact that it is self-published. Arly is a talent for sure, and I couldn’t be happier that this is the start of a series. If you love romance with killer female boss babe energy, solid friendships, and emotional moments blended effortlessly with humor you would be doing yourself a disservice by not reading this stunning novel.
T͏h͏i͏s͏ B͏o͏o͏k͏ i͏n͏ 5͏ E͏m͏o͏j͏i͏’s͏ o͏r͏ L͏e͏s͏s͏: 🏒🧘🏼♀️📱🚿🥰
𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝙼𝚢 𝚂𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚎 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: 🌶️🌶️.5
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 11, 2025
Behind the Bench is an amazing debut from author Jillian Arly and it paves the way for a super solid hockey romance series and let me tell you why: JILLIAN KNOWS HOCKEY. She created a fabulously, strong female main character, such a believable sports world, does not shy away from hockey talk and you can absolutely feel her passion for the sport in every page and I absolutely ate it up!
Childhood rivals, Ellie and Lincoln, find themselves coaching alongside each other for the same NHL team, much to their dismay. They soon learn to put aside their past hurts and preconceived notions about the other and build a relationship that’s built on mutual respect and trust. I LOVED them so much! The heartfelt and emotional moments not only had me swooning, but I found myself tearing up several times. It was a slow burn to spice and let me tell you—Jillian can write spice!! The communication and no third act break made this an easy five star for me. I can not wait to see what Jillian does next in this series, because she easily made me fall in love with every character!!!
Childhood rivals, Ellie and Lincoln, find themselves coaching alongside each other for the same NHL team, much to their dismay. They soon learn to put aside their past hurts and preconceived notions about the other and build a relationship that’s built on mutual respect and trust. I LOVED them so much! The heartfelt and emotional moments not only had me swooning, but I found myself tearing up several times. It was a slow burn to spice and let me tell you—Jillian can write spice!! The communication and no third act break made this an easy five star for me. I can not wait to see what Jillian does next in this series, because she easily made me fall in love with every character!!!
June 2, 2025
ARC Review
Before I get into my thoughts on the book, I want to make something clear — something important for you, the reader of this review:
I want to sincerely thank the author and the agency for giving me the chance to read an advanced copy of this book.
And now, listen closely: this author is not just another sports romance writer. No. We’re talking about a former professional hockey player.
Yes, you read that right.
She’s writing fiction, sure — but it’s based on real-life experience. Her experience as a woman in a male-dominated sport. And that, for me, completely changed how I experienced this story. It gave it a different weight, a powerful and much-needed perspective. Because —and I say this with full honesty— this is the first book I’ve read (as far as I know) written by someone who actually played the sport.
And now, let’s dive into the review. I’ve broken it into sections because each point deserves its moment.
1. Ellie
She’s strong. She’s determined. She doesn’t let anyone walk over her... well, except in those moments we secretly love 😉. In situations that would’ve made anyone else crumble, she stands her ground. This isn’t just a romance story — it’s a story of grit, growth, and triumph.
She’s the first female assistant coach on a professional hockey team — a space dominated by men. But she comes in swinging. Breaking down walls. Shattering stereotypes. Earning her place not through favors or luck, but with hard work, strength, and intelligence. And that? That’s one of the things I loved most.
2. Lincoln
At first? I won’t lie — I didn’t like him. He seemed superficial, more focused on her looks than her skills, and he held onto old grudges for all the wrong reasons. But as the chapters went on, I understood him better. We got to see his growth. His shift. And that was beautiful: watching a man stuck in his biases evolve into someone who used his role as head coach to support and protect the one who deserved it.
Now, don’t get me wrong — she never needed saving. But he still played an important role. He had the power. He had the authority. And instead of abusing it, he chose to lift her up. Not to outshine her, but to stand beside her. I loved him for that. His journey was captivating. And he became one of those book boyfriends you don’t forget... and don’t want to. 😌
3. Their Dynamic (Yes, the Slow Burn)
This was a slow burn, and I mean slow. I felt like I was burning right alongside them. The tension, the heat, the chemistry simmering on every page — it was almost too much. In the best way.
Every look, every touch, every almost moment had me begging for more.
And when it finally happens? Oh, it explodes. And you feel like it was all worth the wait. That slow build was so well done, so intentional, that when they finally let go, it was pure bliss. It was beautiful. It was magical. It was 🔥!!!!!!!
EXTRA: Author... I see you. I know what you did in those final pages before the epilogue. You think I missed it? Oh no, I caught everything. You dropped some very obvious clues about who the main couple will be in the second book — and if I’m right?
Let me just say: single dad trope. That’s all I’m going to say.
And yes, I’m more than ready. You’ve got my full attention.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This didn’t feel like a debut — it felt solid, emotional, passionate. A story that pulled me in and left me eager for more.
To the author: congratulations on this amazing debut. You have a reader right here who’s already waiting for what’s next.
Before I get into my thoughts on the book, I want to make something clear — something important for you, the reader of this review:
I want to sincerely thank the author and the agency for giving me the chance to read an advanced copy of this book.
And now, listen closely: this author is not just another sports romance writer. No. We’re talking about a former professional hockey player.
Yes, you read that right.
She’s writing fiction, sure — but it’s based on real-life experience. Her experience as a woman in a male-dominated sport. And that, for me, completely changed how I experienced this story. It gave it a different weight, a powerful and much-needed perspective. Because —and I say this with full honesty— this is the first book I’ve read (as far as I know) written by someone who actually played the sport.
And now, let’s dive into the review. I’ve broken it into sections because each point deserves its moment.
1. Ellie
She’s strong. She’s determined. She doesn’t let anyone walk over her... well, except in those moments we secretly love 😉. In situations that would’ve made anyone else crumble, she stands her ground. This isn’t just a romance story — it’s a story of grit, growth, and triumph.
She’s the first female assistant coach on a professional hockey team — a space dominated by men. But she comes in swinging. Breaking down walls. Shattering stereotypes. Earning her place not through favors or luck, but with hard work, strength, and intelligence. And that? That’s one of the things I loved most.
2. Lincoln
At first? I won’t lie — I didn’t like him. He seemed superficial, more focused on her looks than her skills, and he held onto old grudges for all the wrong reasons. But as the chapters went on, I understood him better. We got to see his growth. His shift. And that was beautiful: watching a man stuck in his biases evolve into someone who used his role as head coach to support and protect the one who deserved it.
Now, don’t get me wrong — she never needed saving. But he still played an important role. He had the power. He had the authority. And instead of abusing it, he chose to lift her up. Not to outshine her, but to stand beside her. I loved him for that. His journey was captivating. And he became one of those book boyfriends you don’t forget... and don’t want to. 😌
3. Their Dynamic (Yes, the Slow Burn)
This was a slow burn, and I mean slow. I felt like I was burning right alongside them. The tension, the heat, the chemistry simmering on every page — it was almost too much. In the best way.
Every look, every touch, every almost moment had me begging for more.
And when it finally happens? Oh, it explodes. And you feel like it was all worth the wait. That slow build was so well done, so intentional, that when they finally let go, it was pure bliss. It was beautiful. It was magical. It was 🔥!!!!!!!
EXTRA: Author... I see you. I know what you did in those final pages before the epilogue. You think I missed it? Oh no, I caught everything. You dropped some very obvious clues about who the main couple will be in the second book — and if I’m right?
Let me just say: single dad trope. That’s all I’m going to say.
And yes, I’m more than ready. You’ve got my full attention.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This didn’t feel like a debut — it felt solid, emotional, passionate. A story that pulled me in and left me eager for more.
To the author: congratulations on this amazing debut. You have a reader right here who’s already waiting for what’s next.
May 8, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
Behind The Bench
By Jillian Arly
“Lincoln Scott is the bane of my existence. He’s sure to remind me every game. “Girls can’t play hockey. You’ll never go pro. Why are you wasting your time?” The funny thing is, I ask myself that question more times than I’d like to admit, but unlike him, I have the answers. I can play and I will.”
“There is no way this is happening. Of all the people they interviewed for this job, they had to choose Ellie Montgomery? But of course they did. Ellie seemed to have every opportunity under the sun thrown her way. Apparently, that includes the assistant coach position on my team.”
“I know everything there is to know. I’ve been following Ellie’s hockey career my entire life. From college, to the Olympics. From the pros, to her coaching career. Every new achievement, while extremely impressive, pissed me off more and fueled my fire.”
Ellie and Lincoln are the perfect example of rivals to lovers. They have been battling it out since they were kids. Now forced to work together, they try to fight this sexual tension between them, but end up giving into temptation and falling for each other. In the process they both find healing from their past. Congratulations on a great debut book Jillian!
Tropes:
Coach/ Assistant Coach
Childhood Rivals
Workplace Romance
Slow Burn
Enemies to Lovers
Spice starts at 52%🌶️
Spice: 3/4🌶️
Stars: 4/5⭐️
Available on Kindle June 3rd
Behind The Bench
By Jillian Arly
“Lincoln Scott is the bane of my existence. He’s sure to remind me every game. “Girls can’t play hockey. You’ll never go pro. Why are you wasting your time?” The funny thing is, I ask myself that question more times than I’d like to admit, but unlike him, I have the answers. I can play and I will.”
“There is no way this is happening. Of all the people they interviewed for this job, they had to choose Ellie Montgomery? But of course they did. Ellie seemed to have every opportunity under the sun thrown her way. Apparently, that includes the assistant coach position on my team.”
“I know everything there is to know. I’ve been following Ellie’s hockey career my entire life. From college, to the Olympics. From the pros, to her coaching career. Every new achievement, while extremely impressive, pissed me off more and fueled my fire.”
Ellie and Lincoln are the perfect example of rivals to lovers. They have been battling it out since they were kids. Now forced to work together, they try to fight this sexual tension between them, but end up giving into temptation and falling for each other. In the process they both find healing from their past. Congratulations on a great debut book Jillian!
Tropes:
Coach/ Assistant Coach
Childhood Rivals
Workplace Romance
Slow Burn
Enemies to Lovers
Spice starts at 52%🌶️
Spice: 3/4🌶️
Stars: 4/5⭐️
Available on Kindle June 3rd
June 10, 2025
Thanks so much to @literarymediatours for the #gifted arc.
🏒 Review - BEHIND THE BENCH 🏒
Author - Jillian Arly
Pub Date - 6/3/25
Behind the Bench is not only the first book in the Green Bay Bobcats hockey romance series, it’s also Jillian Arly’s debut novel and it is a gem of a book!
This is such a bingeable read! I devoured it in a couple a sittings and just fell so hard for both main characters.
Ellie Montgomery has dreamed of coaching in the NHL for as long as she can remember. She’s now the assistant coach of the NHL’s Green Bay Bobcats, but has to prove she belongs in a man’s world. I loved that Ellie is such a force to be reckoned with, and that she’s not going to let anyone stand in the way of her dream, not even her former childhood rival, Lincoln Scott, who has somehow ended up being the head coach of her team.
Whether it’s sparks flying between them while they’re trading insults or it’s more friendly banter as they slowly move past their old grudges, the chemistry between Ellie and Lincoln is everything! I loved how well they worked together as coaches, and I was obsessed with how Lincoln was always Ellie’s biggest supporter, ready to go after anyone who doubted she belonged in the NHL. Swoon!
I also really enjoyed the character development of both Ellie and Lincoln. Both characters were fully fleshed out, and Lincoln’s history in particular, just added such a vulnerable and heartbreaking layer to his childhood rivalry with Ellie. It made me all the more happy that they found their way back to one another in this new environment as it provides a chance for healing and growth.
Speaking of characters, it’s not only the main characters who are fabulous. Arly’s side characters are amazing too. Every woman needs a bestie like Sadie in her life, and Hunter, the other Bobcats assistant coach is hilarious!
Lastly, I also appreciated how the author’s knowledge of hockey, both as a player & coach, came shining through in this book. I loved that and felt that focus on the sport sets this book apart from other hockey romances I’ve read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🏒 Review - BEHIND THE BENCH 🏒
Author - Jillian Arly
Pub Date - 6/3/25
Behind the Bench is not only the first book in the Green Bay Bobcats hockey romance series, it’s also Jillian Arly’s debut novel and it is a gem of a book!
This is such a bingeable read! I devoured it in a couple a sittings and just fell so hard for both main characters.
Ellie Montgomery has dreamed of coaching in the NHL for as long as she can remember. She’s now the assistant coach of the NHL’s Green Bay Bobcats, but has to prove she belongs in a man’s world. I loved that Ellie is such a force to be reckoned with, and that she’s not going to let anyone stand in the way of her dream, not even her former childhood rival, Lincoln Scott, who has somehow ended up being the head coach of her team.
Whether it’s sparks flying between them while they’re trading insults or it’s more friendly banter as they slowly move past their old grudges, the chemistry between Ellie and Lincoln is everything! I loved how well they worked together as coaches, and I was obsessed with how Lincoln was always Ellie’s biggest supporter, ready to go after anyone who doubted she belonged in the NHL. Swoon!
I also really enjoyed the character development of both Ellie and Lincoln. Both characters were fully fleshed out, and Lincoln’s history in particular, just added such a vulnerable and heartbreaking layer to his childhood rivalry with Ellie. It made me all the more happy that they found their way back to one another in this new environment as it provides a chance for healing and growth.
Speaking of characters, it’s not only the main characters who are fabulous. Arly’s side characters are amazing too. Every woman needs a bestie like Sadie in her life, and Hunter, the other Bobcats assistant coach is hilarious!
Lastly, I also appreciated how the author’s knowledge of hockey, both as a player & coach, came shining through in this book. I loved that and felt that focus on the sport sets this book apart from other hockey romances I’ve read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
June 18, 2025
This was such a solid hockey romance! You can definitely tell a true hockey lover wrote this—there’s way more actual game time and coaching scenes than I’ve seen in other books in the genre, and as a sports fan, I really appreciated that. It made everything feel more real and grounded.
The romance was fun and spicy— and our MMC was a whimpering mess. What I really loved was that it felt like a mature relationship. The characters are in their 30s, working high-stress jobs, and it showed in how they handled (most of) their relationship.
I really liked the MFC. She’s exactly the kind of strong, smart, capable lead I love to root for. Watching her find her place as only the second female assistant coach in the NHL was such a highlight. Her journey was super satisfying—especially the ending (which I won’t spoil, but AHHH so good!!).
Now for the stuff that didn’t quite work for me:
- The banter was cute, but it felt kind of recycled? Like I’ve seen this kind of dialogue before in a lot of other romances.
- The pop culture references weren’t really my thing— but they never are (personal preference).
- And this might be a me-being-a-social-worker thing, but both characters are in therapy, and yet the miscommunication was a lot. I really wanted them to communicate better. I don't mind this trope, but this was a little too much for me given their age and being in therapy.
✨Overall though, this was a fun read with a realistic vibe, great sports content, and a MFC I totally loved. If you like hockey romances that actually feel like hockey, this one’s worth picking up.
Thank you to the author for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
The romance was fun and spicy— and our MMC was a whimpering mess. What I really loved was that it felt like a mature relationship. The characters are in their 30s, working high-stress jobs, and it showed in how they handled (most of) their relationship.
I really liked the MFC. She’s exactly the kind of strong, smart, capable lead I love to root for. Watching her find her place as only the second female assistant coach in the NHL was such a highlight. Her journey was super satisfying—especially the ending (which I won’t spoil, but AHHH so good!!).
Now for the stuff that didn’t quite work for me:
- The banter was cute, but it felt kind of recycled? Like I’ve seen this kind of dialogue before in a lot of other romances.
- The pop culture references weren’t really my thing— but they never are (personal preference).
- And this might be a me-being-a-social-worker thing, but both characters are in therapy, and yet the miscommunication was a lot. I really wanted them to communicate better. I don't mind this trope, but this was a little too much for me given their age and being in therapy.
✨Overall though, this was a fun read with a realistic vibe, great sports content, and a MFC I totally loved. If you like hockey romances that actually feel like hockey, this one’s worth picking up.
Thank you to the author for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
May 27, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️
I really, really, really loved this story. As a former female athlete it was really fun to watch Ellie fight for not only her spot as a coach, but her man, and Lincoln falling first, and being absolutely feral for his woman was just icing on the cake. The slow burn of the story was so well done. I remember thinking throughout the first half of the book... but when are they FINALLY GONNA KISSS...and being so excited when they did.
My favorite trope in this whole book was no third act breakup, the conflict of the story was real, but watching Lincoln fight his demons with Ellie at his side was fantastic. Even Ellie coming to terms with her childhood guilt and mending her relationship with her mom had me crying. I can't wait to keep coming back to this story, and seeing who we get to read about next!.... I'm hoping for Sadie and Niko (fingers crossed! 🤞🏻)
Thank you Jillian Arly and the Author Agency for an ARC of this book!
🔥Hockey Romance
🏒Coach/Assistant Coach
🔥Childhood Rivals
🏒Enemies to Lovers
🔥Workplace Romance
🏒Secret Relationship
🔥Slow Burn
Spice:🌶️🌶️
I really, really, really loved this story. As a former female athlete it was really fun to watch Ellie fight for not only her spot as a coach, but her man, and Lincoln falling first, and being absolutely feral for his woman was just icing on the cake. The slow burn of the story was so well done. I remember thinking throughout the first half of the book... but when are they FINALLY GONNA KISSS...and being so excited when they did.
My favorite trope in this whole book was no third act breakup, the conflict of the story was real, but watching Lincoln fight his demons with Ellie at his side was fantastic. Even Ellie coming to terms with her childhood guilt and mending her relationship with her mom had me crying. I can't wait to keep coming back to this story, and seeing who we get to read about next!.... I'm hoping for Sadie and Niko (fingers crossed! 🤞🏻)
Thank you Jillian Arly and the Author Agency for an ARC of this book!
🔥Hockey Romance
🏒Coach/Assistant Coach
🔥Childhood Rivals
🏒Enemies to Lovers
🔥Workplace Romance
🏒Secret Relationship
🔥Slow Burn
September 1, 2025
5⭐️ | 2.5🌶️
What to expect:
-coach x assistant coach
-secret relationship
-enemies to lovers
-childhood rivals
-hockey romance
-slow burn
This is the first book in the Green Bay Bobcats series by Jillian Arly and a solid debut. Jillian is a retired hockey player and coach and it shows! She seamlessly weaves her knowledge of the sport into this story, making it enjoyable even for someone like me, who isn’t typically into sports.
I truly fell in love with Ellie, because she is truly a badass FMC who doesn’t take shit from anyone and proves to everyone just how exceptional she is. As a woman in a male dominated sport, we see how she has to continuously navigate the jabs and negativity thrown at her. And Lincoln, well, he is the standard for all men. While he doesn’t have the best reaction to working with Ellie at first, he treats her with the utmost respect and defends her again sexist men. He has always seen how hardworking and talented she is and I loved him for that! I also loved how he worked through his trauma and learned how to be a better man not just for himself, but for Ellie.
I loved the pacing and the plot, the slow burn relationship was so worth the wait! Their chemistry was undeniable and had me giggling so much throughout.
What to expect:
-coach x assistant coach
-secret relationship
-enemies to lovers
-childhood rivals
-hockey romance
-slow burn
This is the first book in the Green Bay Bobcats series by Jillian Arly and a solid debut. Jillian is a retired hockey player and coach and it shows! She seamlessly weaves her knowledge of the sport into this story, making it enjoyable even for someone like me, who isn’t typically into sports.
I truly fell in love with Ellie, because she is truly a badass FMC who doesn’t take shit from anyone and proves to everyone just how exceptional she is. As a woman in a male dominated sport, we see how she has to continuously navigate the jabs and negativity thrown at her. And Lincoln, well, he is the standard for all men. While he doesn’t have the best reaction to working with Ellie at first, he treats her with the utmost respect and defends her again sexist men. He has always seen how hardworking and talented she is and I loved him for that! I also loved how he worked through his trauma and learned how to be a better man not just for himself, but for Ellie.
I loved the pacing and the plot, the slow burn relationship was so worth the wait! Their chemistry was undeniable and had me giggling so much throughout.
June 4, 2025
Ellie & Lincoln (Linc) have known each other for a long time & yet have never really gotten along. The chirping between these two during hockey games is rather entertaining. Behind the Bench is heavy on the hockey, light on the romance. Now the romance, is romancing but the fact the author played hockey shows, 100%. Which by the way I APPRECIATE. I enjoy watching hockey and reading it. So, this story was a great read.
Ellie (I assume is based off of author OR our lovely Jessica Campbell Assistant Coach to the Seattle Kraken) is a fierce, smart, outspoken, & beautiful. Really Ellie is the whole package but she's got a past like most of us do (and it isn't pretty).
Lincoln (Linc) is strong willed, smart, dashing, and angry. He has had a chip on his shoulder for a long time and coming to the Bobcats is a new starting point for him. Until he finds out Ellie is his new assistant coach (one of them). I love his character because he doesn't allow the men around Ellie to treat her anything less than a coach. He does not allow anyone to belittle or berate Ellie. I admire his character in the book and how he deals with his panic attacks (for the most part).
These two on the ice are a dynamic duo.
This book was SO good. & it comes with a happy ever after.
Ellie (I assume is based off of author OR our lovely Jessica Campbell Assistant Coach to the Seattle Kraken) is a fierce, smart, outspoken, & beautiful. Really Ellie is the whole package but she's got a past like most of us do (and it isn't pretty).
Lincoln (Linc) is strong willed, smart, dashing, and angry. He has had a chip on his shoulder for a long time and coming to the Bobcats is a new starting point for him. Until he finds out Ellie is his new assistant coach (one of them). I love his character because he doesn't allow the men around Ellie to treat her anything less than a coach. He does not allow anyone to belittle or berate Ellie. I admire his character in the book and how he deals with his panic attacks (for the most part).
These two on the ice are a dynamic duo.
This book was SO good. & it comes with a happy ever after.
June 4, 2025
This is a debut you do not want to miss, especially if you’re a sports romance lover. I absolutely loved Jillian’s writing, and she KNOWS the hockey world. She has a lot of personal experience in it, and the accuracy and depth made reading this even better for me .
Ellie is my favorite kind of FMC, she’s strong and not afraid to stand up for herself. And you can’t help but love Lincoln, especially knowing his complex history and what he went through. They both worked so hard to get where they are. The tension and energy between these two are so good, I couldn’t get enough! And the side characters! Love them. We all need friends like Sadie and Hunter. This is the first in the 𝘎𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘉𝘢𝘺 𝘉𝘰𝘣𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘴 series, and I’m so excited knowing there’s more to come in this world!!
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁 ⇣
•Hockey Romance
•Coach x Assistant Coach
•Enemies to Lovers
•Childhood Rivals
•Slow Burn
•Secret Relationship
•Women in Sports
•Dual POV
•Spice
Thank you to Literary Media Tours and Jillian Arly for the ARC!
Ellie is my favorite kind of FMC, she’s strong and not afraid to stand up for herself. And you can’t help but love Lincoln, especially knowing his complex history and what he went through. They both worked so hard to get where they are. The tension and energy between these two are so good, I couldn’t get enough! And the side characters! Love them. We all need friends like Sadie and Hunter. This is the first in the 𝘎𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘉𝘢𝘺 𝘉𝘰𝘣𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘴 series, and I’m so excited knowing there’s more to come in this world!!
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁 ⇣
•Hockey Romance
•Coach x Assistant Coach
•Enemies to Lovers
•Childhood Rivals
•Slow Burn
•Secret Relationship
•Women in Sports
•Dual POV
•Spice
Thank you to Literary Media Tours and Jillian Arly for the ARC!
June 4, 2025
This book was so good! I'm a sucker for a good hockey romance, and this delivered!
Ellie, our FMC, is a strong, empowered baddie! Becoming an assistant coach in a male dominated NHL is something that she takes in stride and handles with such sass and professionalism.
Lincoln is our MMC, and he is the head coach of the Green Bay Bobcats NHL team. He is pretty damn sexy! He has his own childhood trauma that adds to the character development in this story.
Lincoln and Ellie are childhood rivals, and being coaches together on the same team was not something either one had expected or wanted. This workplace romance worked well! Perfect amount of banter, tension, and slow burn. The spice was nice. 🔥
This book is for you if you enjoy:
🏒Hockey romance
💕Childhood rivals
🏒Workplace romance
💕Enemies to lovers
Thank you to the author, Jillian Arly, and to The Author Agency tours for the opportunity to read this ARC. These are all my own thoughts and opinions!
Ellie, our FMC, is a strong, empowered baddie! Becoming an assistant coach in a male dominated NHL is something that she takes in stride and handles with such sass and professionalism.
Lincoln is our MMC, and he is the head coach of the Green Bay Bobcats NHL team. He is pretty damn sexy! He has his own childhood trauma that adds to the character development in this story.
Lincoln and Ellie are childhood rivals, and being coaches together on the same team was not something either one had expected or wanted. This workplace romance worked well! Perfect amount of banter, tension, and slow burn. The spice was nice. 🔥
This book is for you if you enjoy:
🏒Hockey romance
💕Childhood rivals
🏒Workplace romance
💕Enemies to lovers
Thank you to the author, Jillian Arly, and to The Author Agency tours for the opportunity to read this ARC. These are all my own thoughts and opinions!
unfinished
June 30, 2025DNF 11 %
Jak se učím dávat šance méně známým věcem, tak se učím je i zahodit, když cítím velký špatný. Tato mě oslovila námětem (head coach & assistant coach v NHL, rivals to lovers). Je jasné, že autorka sama má velkou vášeň pro hokej, ovšem do vypsané ruky velmi daleko...
Jak se učím dávat šance méně známým věcem, tak se učím je i zahodit, když cítím velký špatný. Tato mě oslovila námětem (head coach & assistant coach v NHL, rivals to lovers). Je jasné, že autorka sama má velkou vášeň pro hokej, ovšem do vypsané ruky velmi daleko...
could-not-finish
September 15, 2025The dialogue wasn't doing it for me and the male POV was too similar to the female POV.
I wanted more distinct personalities.
I wanted more distinct personalities.
May 30, 2025
Beta + ARC read
I CANNOT believe this is a debut. Absolutely phenomenal. I am in awe of the fact that this is Jillian’s first book.
I had the amazing opportunity to beta & ARC read this beauty, and I’m so grateful I got to experience Lincoln and Ellie’s story.
If you’re a woman who loves sports, participated in sports, and /or just wants to see women be accepted in the athletic community and get the love, respect and attention they deserve – this book is for you.
Our FMC Ellie is quite possibly one of my new favorites. She’s smart, funny, independent, witty, athletic, and can hold her own with the boys. Her sass and attitude made me love her even more. Add in her banter with our MMC Lincoln, and we had the perfect pair. Lincoln is our cocky, handsome head hockey coach for The Green Bay Bobcats, an NHL team… And Ellie? Well, Ellie is his assistant coach. You heard that right, a female NHL coach. Pretty bad*ss, right? Sprinkle in a little rivals to lovers, and that makes this story even better (and hotter, lemme tell ya).
Wanna know what else I loved? Our side characters. Jillian has me on the edge of my seat for the next book in the series because I adored our side characters. From the dialogue, to the text message banter, to the hilarious one liners – I loved this story.
I had so much dang fun reading this book. I cackled, I screamed, I threw my little fist in the air, I swooned, I blushed, and I cried at the end. Because the ending was everything and more.
Congratulations, Jillian, on your incredible debut. I’m so proud of you. And I know Ellie would be too. Here’s to strong women – May we know them. May we be them. May we raise them.
Read if you love:
- Rivals to lovers
- Pro hockey romance (with a strong emphasis on women in sports!!!)
- Head coach (him) x Assistant Coach (her)
- Strong female friendships
- He crawls to her
- He paints his pants
- She has a “f*ck it” moment
- He knows how she takes her coffee
- Therapy rep
I CANNOT believe this is a debut. Absolutely phenomenal. I am in awe of the fact that this is Jillian’s first book.
I had the amazing opportunity to beta & ARC read this beauty, and I’m so grateful I got to experience Lincoln and Ellie’s story.
If you’re a woman who loves sports, participated in sports, and /or just wants to see women be accepted in the athletic community and get the love, respect and attention they deserve – this book is for you.
Our FMC Ellie is quite possibly one of my new favorites. She’s smart, funny, independent, witty, athletic, and can hold her own with the boys. Her sass and attitude made me love her even more. Add in her banter with our MMC Lincoln, and we had the perfect pair. Lincoln is our cocky, handsome head hockey coach for The Green Bay Bobcats, an NHL team… And Ellie? Well, Ellie is his assistant coach. You heard that right, a female NHL coach. Pretty bad*ss, right? Sprinkle in a little rivals to lovers, and that makes this story even better (and hotter, lemme tell ya).
Wanna know what else I loved? Our side characters. Jillian has me on the edge of my seat for the next book in the series because I adored our side characters. From the dialogue, to the text message banter, to the hilarious one liners – I loved this story.
I had so much dang fun reading this book. I cackled, I screamed, I threw my little fist in the air, I swooned, I blushed, and I cried at the end. Because the ending was everything and more.
Congratulations, Jillian, on your incredible debut. I’m so proud of you. And I know Ellie would be too. Here’s to strong women – May we know them. May we be them. May we raise them.
Read if you love:
- Rivals to lovers
- Pro hockey romance (with a strong emphasis on women in sports!!!)
- Head coach (him) x Assistant Coach (her)
- Strong female friendships
- He crawls to her
- He paints his pants
- She has a “f*ck it” moment
- He knows how she takes her coffee
- Therapy rep
May 9, 2025
Behind The Bench is the first book in the Green Bay Bobcats series and Jillian's debut novel. Let me tell you, this book is an absolute BANGER. It was completely flawless, I absolutely adored every single moment of this book. From the prologue I was hooked immediately, she grabbed me with a solid storyline, realistic characters and her own personal knowledge regarding hockey. Truly, it made for an unforgettable read in the Hockey romance genre, it's unlike any other I've read previously. It's so much more in depth regarding the hockey portion, everything was described and portrayed with such accuracy.
Lincoln & Ellie I am completely OBSESSED with them. They're such resilient, strong and driven characters, I loved following them on their professional and personal journeys. The enemies to lovers hit the spot, the “fuck it” moment had me kicking my feet, the spice was absolutely PHENOMENAL, the relationship building IMMACULATE and the healing of past trauma absolutely heart wrenching. I cannot commend Jillian enough for having little to no drama in this book, no third act breakup, characters that actually speak and resolve their issues right away instead of overreacting and walking away! It felt just so much more genuine.
There are many side characters that absolutely stole my heart as well. I cannot wait for their books and to see them again. The whole hockey team's dynamics was so much fun, their banter, their friendship, their great complicity, it warmed my heart. Truly there are not enough words to describe my love for this book, it was PERFECTION!
Overall, this was a fantastic hockey romance with such a different and original vibe to it, it was highly refreshing. I cannot recommend this one enough! Jillian, you are AMAZING, keep writing, I need more 😘
✨️Thank you to @literarymediatours & @jillianarly for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Lincoln & Ellie I am completely OBSESSED with them. They're such resilient, strong and driven characters, I loved following them on their professional and personal journeys. The enemies to lovers hit the spot, the “fuck it” moment had me kicking my feet, the spice was absolutely PHENOMENAL, the relationship building IMMACULATE and the healing of past trauma absolutely heart wrenching. I cannot commend Jillian enough for having little to no drama in this book, no third act breakup, characters that actually speak and resolve their issues right away instead of overreacting and walking away! It felt just so much more genuine.
There are many side characters that absolutely stole my heart as well. I cannot wait for their books and to see them again. The whole hockey team's dynamics was so much fun, their banter, their friendship, their great complicity, it warmed my heart. Truly there are not enough words to describe my love for this book, it was PERFECTION!
Overall, this was a fantastic hockey romance with such a different and original vibe to it, it was highly refreshing. I cannot recommend this one enough! Jillian, you are AMAZING, keep writing, I need more 😘
✨️Thank you to @literarymediatours & @jillianarly for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2025
4/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️
Ellie Montgomery has been working her entire career to get to where she is today: an assistant coach to an NHL team. Climbing the ladder to get to this position has already been hard enough, and on her first day she’s hit with the realization that the new head coach of her team is none other than Lincoln Scott, the man who used to be her childhood rival and enemy on the ice. Will Ellie and Lincoln be able to put their mutual animosity aside for the good of the team? Or will their past be a problem for their future?
I absolutely love a sports romance, and this was such a fun twist to make the two MCs part of the coaching staff. Their mutual disdain and hate was SO tantalizing, and I simply couldn’t wait to see how they figured out how to work together. The ‘hockey’ of it all was really fun, the romance build-up was great, and there was a MMC crawling AND a ‘good boy’ moment… which you know I absolutely melted for. I really, really hope we got a little teaser of who the next book will be able… I absolutely LOVED the FMC introduced PLUS the tropes that will follow! *SQUEAL!*
This is Arly’s first novel and I can’t wait to see where her writing takes her. I loved being able a part of Jillian’s author journey and being able to read this early! It was such a fun read and I definitely recommend.
What I Loved About This Story:
✨ Childhood rivals to lovers
✨ Head hockey coach & assistant hockey coach
✨ Workplace and secret relationship
✨ Meddling best friends
✨ Mutual childhood trauma… and they help each other get better
✨ Absolutely love strong females in positions of power in sports!
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via the author and Literary Media Tours, but my review is all my own.
2/5 🌶️
Ellie Montgomery has been working her entire career to get to where she is today: an assistant coach to an NHL team. Climbing the ladder to get to this position has already been hard enough, and on her first day she’s hit with the realization that the new head coach of her team is none other than Lincoln Scott, the man who used to be her childhood rival and enemy on the ice. Will Ellie and Lincoln be able to put their mutual animosity aside for the good of the team? Or will their past be a problem for their future?
I absolutely love a sports romance, and this was such a fun twist to make the two MCs part of the coaching staff. Their mutual disdain and hate was SO tantalizing, and I simply couldn’t wait to see how they figured out how to work together. The ‘hockey’ of it all was really fun, the romance build-up was great, and there was a MMC crawling AND a ‘good boy’ moment… which you know I absolutely melted for. I really, really hope we got a little teaser of who the next book will be able… I absolutely LOVED the FMC introduced PLUS the tropes that will follow! *SQUEAL!*
This is Arly’s first novel and I can’t wait to see where her writing takes her. I loved being able a part of Jillian’s author journey and being able to read this early! It was such a fun read and I definitely recommend.
What I Loved About This Story:
✨ Childhood rivals to lovers
✨ Head hockey coach & assistant hockey coach
✨ Workplace and secret relationship
✨ Meddling best friends
✨ Mutual childhood trauma… and they help each other get better
✨ Absolutely love strong females in positions of power in sports!
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via the author and Literary Media Tours, but my review is all my own.
May 23, 2025
It’s hard to believe this is a debut novel—it’s that polished, that powerful, and honestly, that unforgettable. From the very first page, this story had me hooked, and by the end, I was left in awe. No notes. Just pure admiration.
As a longtime fan of Jessica Campbell, I knew I was in for a treat the moment the author’s note mentioned her. That early nod set the tone for a story that did not disappoint.
At its heart, this book follows Ellie, a trailblazing woman breaking barriers in the male-dominated world of the NHL. She lands a coveted role as assistant coach for the Green Bay Bobcats—only to find herself working alongside her childhood rival, Lincoln, who’s just taken over as head coach. What unfolds is a masterclass in slow-burn romance, richly layered character development, and emotional depth.
Ellie is nothing short of a force. Facing casual sexism and overtly derogatory remarks, she handles each challenge with grit and grace. I was rooting for her with every step. And Lincoln? His internal journey—from unresolved childhood trauma to navigating his evolving feelings for Ellie—is written with such sensitivity and heart, it’s impossible not to feel every beat.
Together, Ellie and Lincoln are magnetic. Their connection is raw, real, and tender. They push and pull, challenge and comfort, and ultimately carry each other through the emotional wreckage of their pasts with a quiet, unwavering devotion.
This book isn’t just a love story; it’s a story about resilience, redemption, and finding your voice in a world that underestimates you. I can only hope we get more books centered around the Green Bay Bobcats—because I’m not ready to let go of this world just yet.
A phenomenal debut. I can’t recommend it highly enough.
As a longtime fan of Jessica Campbell, I knew I was in for a treat the moment the author’s note mentioned her. That early nod set the tone for a story that did not disappoint.
At its heart, this book follows Ellie, a trailblazing woman breaking barriers in the male-dominated world of the NHL. She lands a coveted role as assistant coach for the Green Bay Bobcats—only to find herself working alongside her childhood rival, Lincoln, who’s just taken over as head coach. What unfolds is a masterclass in slow-burn romance, richly layered character development, and emotional depth.
Ellie is nothing short of a force. Facing casual sexism and overtly derogatory remarks, she handles each challenge with grit and grace. I was rooting for her with every step. And Lincoln? His internal journey—from unresolved childhood trauma to navigating his evolving feelings for Ellie—is written with such sensitivity and heart, it’s impossible not to feel every beat.
Together, Ellie and Lincoln are magnetic. Their connection is raw, real, and tender. They push and pull, challenge and comfort, and ultimately carry each other through the emotional wreckage of their pasts with a quiet, unwavering devotion.
This book isn’t just a love story; it’s a story about resilience, redemption, and finding your voice in a world that underestimates you. I can only hope we get more books centered around the Green Bay Bobcats—because I’m not ready to let go of this world just yet.
A phenomenal debut. I can’t recommend it highly enough.
June 3, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars
Thank you @literarymediatours and @jullianarlyauthor for the free arc 💖.
✨What it is about:
Childhood rivals turned NHL coaches, Ellie and Lincoln are forced to work together. Soon enough, tension turns into desire and sparks fly. Can they keep their past from ruining their future?✨
💭My thoughts:
This is the first book in the Green Bay Bobcats series by Jillian Arly and a solid debut. Arly is a retired hockey player and coach, and it shows! She seamlessly weaves her knowledge of the sport into the story, making it enjoyable even for someone like me who isn’t typically into sports.
I thought the writing was strong, and the blend of sports and romance was really well done. Both main characters are shaped by their pasts, and their present circumstances force them to confront those struggles and grow. I loved Ellie’s work ethic and her endurance as she navigates the ups and downs of being one of the only women in a male dominated workplace.
I also enjoyed the side characters (who I can’t wait to see more of in future books), and Lincoln’s perseverance, despite all the obstacles life throws at him. Both Ellie and Lincoln rise above and push themselves to excel, and I always appreciate seeing that kind of growth and resilience represented in books.
The intimate scenes were well done, the sports elements didn’t bore me (and were actually really interesting), and I loved that there was no third act breakup. Arly is definitely one to watch, and I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Read if you like:
🏒Childhood rivals
🏒Workplace romance
🏒Enemies to lovers
🏒Mutual pining
🏒Slow burn
🏒 Women in sports
⚠️CW: Explicit language, mentions of past domestic abuse/ child abuse, parent abandonment, mentions of a car accident, sexual content, alcohol consumption on the page, sexist comments by side characters.
Thank you @literarymediatours and @jullianarlyauthor for the free arc 💖.
✨What it is about:
Childhood rivals turned NHL coaches, Ellie and Lincoln are forced to work together. Soon enough, tension turns into desire and sparks fly. Can they keep their past from ruining their future?✨
💭My thoughts:
This is the first book in the Green Bay Bobcats series by Jillian Arly and a solid debut. Arly is a retired hockey player and coach, and it shows! She seamlessly weaves her knowledge of the sport into the story, making it enjoyable even for someone like me who isn’t typically into sports.
I thought the writing was strong, and the blend of sports and romance was really well done. Both main characters are shaped by their pasts, and their present circumstances force them to confront those struggles and grow. I loved Ellie’s work ethic and her endurance as she navigates the ups and downs of being one of the only women in a male dominated workplace.
I also enjoyed the side characters (who I can’t wait to see more of in future books), and Lincoln’s perseverance, despite all the obstacles life throws at him. Both Ellie and Lincoln rise above and push themselves to excel, and I always appreciate seeing that kind of growth and resilience represented in books.
The intimate scenes were well done, the sports elements didn’t bore me (and were actually really interesting), and I loved that there was no third act breakup. Arly is definitely one to watch, and I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Read if you like:
🏒Childhood rivals
🏒Workplace romance
🏒Enemies to lovers
🏒Mutual pining
🏒Slow burn
🏒 Women in sports
⚠️CW: Explicit language, mentions of past domestic abuse/ child abuse, parent abandonment, mentions of a car accident, sexual content, alcohol consumption on the page, sexist comments by side characters.
June 3, 2025
Behind the Bench by Jillian Arly
-Green Bay Bobcats, Book 1-
3/3🌶️ (*6ish scenes)
2/3🦋 (swoon)
•My Thoughts•
I was honored to alpha read this one and when I expressed interest in how developmental edits worked, Jillian GRACIOUSLY allowed me in on the whole process. I was given such a unique window as I read what the editor said and then watched as Jillian tweaked and shifted her story. It was amazing to watch and I loved being a part of it!
I think one of my very favorite things about this book is that it’s a hockey romance from the perspective of someone who has played and coached hockey. Jillian’s love and understanding of the sport absolutely shines! I also loved that this is a romance between two coaches - it brings such a unique dynamic. Lincoln and Ellie have a history since they played on opposing teams as kids and that rivalry was only made worse by their experiences in their homes. They both are working through different traumas and fighting a confusing attraction to each other WHILE trying to work together. The tension between them was palpable. The friendships were beautifully written and I loved the vision for women in sports. If you’re looking for a unique, spicy hockey romance, you should check out this debut!
Thank you to @jillianarlyauthor and @literarymediatours for the early copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own!!
*I learned this year that if I alpha read something and then read a revised version, I don’t know how to mesh my two readings together to give a coherent review OR one that feels consistent to my other reviews (yes, I know we all bring in our own bias but this feels different). I’m too “in it” and have decided to just give vibes, spice and swoon ratings for these!
-Green Bay Bobcats, Book 1-
3/3🌶️ (*6ish scenes)
2/3🦋 (swoon)
•My Thoughts•
I was honored to alpha read this one and when I expressed interest in how developmental edits worked, Jillian GRACIOUSLY allowed me in on the whole process. I was given such a unique window as I read what the editor said and then watched as Jillian tweaked and shifted her story. It was amazing to watch and I loved being a part of it!
I think one of my very favorite things about this book is that it’s a hockey romance from the perspective of someone who has played and coached hockey. Jillian’s love and understanding of the sport absolutely shines! I also loved that this is a romance between two coaches - it brings such a unique dynamic. Lincoln and Ellie have a history since they played on opposing teams as kids and that rivalry was only made worse by their experiences in their homes. They both are working through different traumas and fighting a confusing attraction to each other WHILE trying to work together. The tension between them was palpable. The friendships were beautifully written and I loved the vision for women in sports. If you’re looking for a unique, spicy hockey romance, you should check out this debut!
Thank you to @jillianarlyauthor and @literarymediatours for the early copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own!!
*I learned this year that if I alpha read something and then read a revised version, I don’t know how to mesh my two readings together to give a coherent review OR one that feels consistent to my other reviews (yes, I know we all bring in our own bias but this feels different). I’m too “in it” and have decided to just give vibes, spice and swoon ratings for these!
June 3, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
“Because whenever I’m in a room with Lincoln Scott, my heart beats a little louder and my worries get a little quieter.”
It’s release day for this amazing debut by @jillianarlyauthor ! Behind The Bench is a hockey romance between the coach and assistant coach. If you’ve read a hockey romance before and were bummed that it didn’t have much of the hockey aspect, you will love this one! Jill is a retired hockey player and coach and you can definitely see it in her writing.
✨Ellie Montgomery is the assistant coach. She’s set on proving to everyone that she deserves to be there. Being a woman in a male dominant sport has been an issue since she was younger. She is fiery and determined to win even if that means putting up with Lincoln Scott.
✨Lincoln Scott is the youngest NHL coach and he’s set on proving that he’s earned this position. It doesn’t matter if his assistant coach is his childhood rival. While they’re working together he realizes what Ellie has had to put up with and when I say he is extremely protective of her I mean it.
✨Lincoln and Ellie are set on proving themselves, but they find it to be a lot harder to work together when they’re still holding grudges. This causes there to be A LOT of tension between them and it helps build the slow burn into a finally moment. Once they cross that line it becomes impossible for them to ignore. I love a good secret romance and theirs is full of banter, heat, and heartfelt moments.
Behind The Bench has:
🏒 Hockey coach X assistant coach
☕️ Childhood rivals to lovers
🩵 Secret romance
🔥 Spice
📝 Dual pov
🥅 Women in sports
🤍 Slow burn
Ps, it’s available now and on KU!
Thank you @jillianarlyauthor and @literarymediatours for this arc 🫶🏼
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
“Because whenever I’m in a room with Lincoln Scott, my heart beats a little louder and my worries get a little quieter.”
It’s release day for this amazing debut by @jillianarlyauthor ! Behind The Bench is a hockey romance between the coach and assistant coach. If you’ve read a hockey romance before and were bummed that it didn’t have much of the hockey aspect, you will love this one! Jill is a retired hockey player and coach and you can definitely see it in her writing.
✨Ellie Montgomery is the assistant coach. She’s set on proving to everyone that she deserves to be there. Being a woman in a male dominant sport has been an issue since she was younger. She is fiery and determined to win even if that means putting up with Lincoln Scott.
✨Lincoln Scott is the youngest NHL coach and he’s set on proving that he’s earned this position. It doesn’t matter if his assistant coach is his childhood rival. While they’re working together he realizes what Ellie has had to put up with and when I say he is extremely protective of her I mean it.
✨Lincoln and Ellie are set on proving themselves, but they find it to be a lot harder to work together when they’re still holding grudges. This causes there to be A LOT of tension between them and it helps build the slow burn into a finally moment. Once they cross that line it becomes impossible for them to ignore. I love a good secret romance and theirs is full of banter, heat, and heartfelt moments.
Behind The Bench has:
🏒 Hockey coach X assistant coach
☕️ Childhood rivals to lovers
🩵 Secret romance
🔥 Spice
📝 Dual pov
🥅 Women in sports
🤍 Slow burn
Ps, it’s available now and on KU!
Thank you @jillianarlyauthor and @literarymediatours for this arc 🫶🏼
June 8, 2025
Thank you, @literarymediatours for the gifted copy of Behind the Bench.
3.5 stars
I’m so so torn on this one. I ended up really loving it (and couldn’t stop thinking about it for days), but I’m not sure I can give it a wholehearted, across-the-board recommendation. Here’s why:
~What I loved~
- These characters are amazing. They’ve both been through it and spend much of the book coming to terms with how their pasts have shaped them, learning to navigate that in healthy, intentional ways. I love this kind of emotional work in romcoms!
- Their chemistry is off the charts. It takes a while for them to come together, but this only helped it feel earned. Once they do, they are so good to each other — sweet, supportive, and the kind of couple that clearly brings out the best in one another. I adored their scenes together in the second half and felt all the feels.
- The plot overall felt realistic and well paced, and the supporting cast was strong and memorable.
~What gives me pause~
Frankly, the writing style. It’s not AWFUL, but it’s not strong either — especially in the first 40%. It leans heavily into telling rather than showing, and at times felt like reading alternating journal entries instead of a novel. We’re often told exactly what happened and how the characters felt, which pulled me out of the story over and over again. That said, it does seem to improve in the second half — or maybe I was just so invested in their relationship by then that I stopped caring?
~Final thoughts~
If writing style isn’t something that distracts you, I think you’ll really enjoy this one. The emotional arc and character dynamics are strong and it has so much heart. I fully expect this author to go big places as she perfects her craft, and I'll definitely be along for the ride!
#BehindTheBench #LiteraryMediaTours #ArcTeam
3.5 stars
I’m so so torn on this one. I ended up really loving it (and couldn’t stop thinking about it for days), but I’m not sure I can give it a wholehearted, across-the-board recommendation. Here’s why:
~What I loved~
- These characters are amazing. They’ve both been through it and spend much of the book coming to terms with how their pasts have shaped them, learning to navigate that in healthy, intentional ways. I love this kind of emotional work in romcoms!
- Their chemistry is off the charts. It takes a while for them to come together, but this only helped it feel earned. Once they do, they are so good to each other — sweet, supportive, and the kind of couple that clearly brings out the best in one another. I adored their scenes together in the second half and felt all the feels.
- The plot overall felt realistic and well paced, and the supporting cast was strong and memorable.
~What gives me pause~
Frankly, the writing style. It’s not AWFUL, but it’s not strong either — especially in the first 40%. It leans heavily into telling rather than showing, and at times felt like reading alternating journal entries instead of a novel. We’re often told exactly what happened and how the characters felt, which pulled me out of the story over and over again. That said, it does seem to improve in the second half — or maybe I was just so invested in their relationship by then that I stopped caring?
~Final thoughts~
If writing style isn’t something that distracts you, I think you’ll really enjoy this one. The emotional arc and character dynamics are strong and it has so much heart. I fully expect this author to go big places as she perfects her craft, and I'll definitely be along for the ride!
#BehindTheBench #LiteraryMediaTours #ArcTeam
June 2, 2025
Ellie & Lincoln were childhood hockey rivals. Imagine their surprise when they saw each other again as the Coach & Assistant Coach for the Green Bay Bobcats. Working together is not easy - esp when all those old, angry feelings come roaring back. But the more time they spent together, they realize that maybe they don't hate each other as much as they thought they did.
I loved seeing a woman in a male-dominated field. Ellie is the exact picture of "I am woman, hear me roar!" She was an amazing FMC! I loved how [almost] everyone was so respectful and admired her in her position. I loved how Lincoln kept showing up for her even when he was trying so hard to stay away. It was definitely a slow burn, which is always good for me. It definitely brought the banter & the tension. Also, I loved the side characters. This was such a fun group of people!
Behind the Bench is a debut book from Jillian Arly and I'm totally impressed! Her writing is SO good! I cannot wait to read more from her!
What to expect:
🏒Hockey Coach x Assistant Coach
⛸️Enemies to Lovers
🏒Childhood Rivals
⛸️Workplace Romance
🏒No 3rd Act Break Up
This one releases June 3. Thanks so much to Jillian Arly & Literary Media Tours for this ARC!
I loved seeing a woman in a male-dominated field. Ellie is the exact picture of "I am woman, hear me roar!" She was an amazing FMC! I loved how [almost] everyone was so respectful and admired her in her position. I loved how Lincoln kept showing up for her even when he was trying so hard to stay away. It was definitely a slow burn, which is always good for me. It definitely brought the banter & the tension. Also, I loved the side characters. This was such a fun group of people!
Behind the Bench is a debut book from Jillian Arly and I'm totally impressed! Her writing is SO good! I cannot wait to read more from her!
What to expect:
🏒Hockey Coach x Assistant Coach
⛸️Enemies to Lovers
🏒Childhood Rivals
⛸️Workplace Romance
🏒No 3rd Act Break Up
This one releases June 3. Thanks so much to Jillian Arly & Literary Media Tours for this ARC!
August 17, 2025
I truly can't believe this is a debut novel! I read this in less than 24 hours after being a a little bit of a book decision paralysis, and it was the best decision I made.
Jillian crafted two wholly complete characters who both work through their past separately, but then let them lean on each other while they grow together.
Ellie and Lincoln are both hired as coaches, assistant and head coaches respectfully, of the Green Bay Bobcats NHL team. They have history from when they were children of being on opposite teams and being rivals. After both growing up and achieving their dreams as professional hockey players, these two now are forced to work together. They have to navigate moving forward, Ellie as a female assistant coach in a male-driven space and Lincoln as the youngest head coach. These two both navigate this new space they are in, and after getting through their triggers with each other through HEALTHY communication and therapy, we get to see them shine.
I'm obsessed with these two, and absolutely love this found family that Jillian has set up between the players, coaches, friends, and family. I cannot wait to see where she takes these characters moving forward, and I will absolutely be DEVOURING what's next.
Jillian crafted two wholly complete characters who both work through their past separately, but then let them lean on each other while they grow together.
Ellie and Lincoln are both hired as coaches, assistant and head coaches respectfully, of the Green Bay Bobcats NHL team. They have history from when they were children of being on opposite teams and being rivals. After both growing up and achieving their dreams as professional hockey players, these two now are forced to work together. They have to navigate moving forward, Ellie as a female assistant coach in a male-driven space and Lincoln as the youngest head coach. These two both navigate this new space they are in, and after getting through their triggers with each other through HEALTHY communication and therapy, we get to see them shine.
I'm obsessed with these two, and absolutely love this found family that Jillian has set up between the players, coaches, friends, and family. I cannot wait to see where she takes these characters moving forward, and I will absolutely be DEVOURING what's next.
May 29, 2025
I love a hockey romance as much as the next person but a hockey romance with a female couch? Sign me up!!! Ellie is a superstar and I wanna be her when I grow up, she’s full of sass and fiery as hell, and takes no shit from anyone, especially Lincoln. Lincoln is determined and focused and so protective it makes it really hard not to love him. Ellie and Lincoln’s backstory and rivalry really made this such a fun read! I like that the first half of the book really focused on them just getting into each other’s good graces and getting to know each other without the “hate” and the slow burn was full of angst! Once they get together, the pace of the book seemed to pick up which I enjoyed. The time lapses throughout the book were very well done and helped keep the pace of the book going well. The additional characters? Sadie and Hunter had me giggling; Ellie’s parents and Lincoln’s cousin… what a great plot line!!! Also, as a Wisconsin born and raised girlie, I adore the fact that this book is based there. I truly enjoyed this book and I cannot thank Jillian enough for allowing me to be a part of her ARC team for this release. Get your copy on June 3!!!!
May 28, 2025
Quite a nice debut for the author of this book who was a hockey player herslef so we see a bit more info on the game, which doesn't hurt the book the least.
There are many things I liked n this book. The fact that Elle and Lincoln have known each other since high school and have been rivals while playing a game they both love and being forced to work together fifteen years later. I liked their rivalry and the way they clashed at first.
It was a bit weird for me Sadie's presence in he book, she just visited and then she stayed basically forever and the team bonding scene in the last chapter was cute and I think it was set up for book 2 but it felt a bit thrown off in there.
Still, I enjoyed reading this book a lot. I got an ARC for my honest review.
There are many things I liked n this book. The fact that Elle and Lincoln have known each other since high school and have been rivals while playing a game they both love and being forced to work together fifteen years later. I liked their rivalry and the way they clashed at first.
It was a bit weird for me Sadie's presence in he book, she just visited and then she stayed basically forever and the team bonding scene in the last chapter was cute and I think it was set up for book 2 but it felt a bit thrown off in there.
Still, I enjoyed reading this book a lot. I got an ARC for my honest review.
May 31, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
Loved the premise of the book: Ellie being the first assistant coach in NHL. I also, as a Seattle Kraken fan, appreciated the authors note regarding our Asst Coach Jessica 💙🩵
I love a good enemies to lovers trope with a hint of forbidden love (Coach and asst Coach). The banter was great and so was the spice 🔥 I also liked the side characters that were introduced and felt invested in hearing their stories if this turns into a series.
Some things that bothered me was the dialogue/inner monologue seemed repetitive as the book was dual POV. I felt the depth of the characters and their traumas were well developed but the timing which they were addressed with one another seemed a little off (right after they have sex for the first time🤔) Overall, you could just tell this is early works writing and the craft needs to be worked on a little but a great first book into hockey romance!
Still a fun read! Should definitely check it out if you need another hockey romance in your life 😊
Loved the premise of the book: Ellie being the first assistant coach in NHL. I also, as a Seattle Kraken fan, appreciated the authors note regarding our Asst Coach Jessica 💙🩵
I love a good enemies to lovers trope with a hint of forbidden love (Coach and asst Coach). The banter was great and so was the spice 🔥 I also liked the side characters that were introduced and felt invested in hearing their stories if this turns into a series.
Some things that bothered me was the dialogue/inner monologue seemed repetitive as the book was dual POV. I felt the depth of the characters and their traumas were well developed but the timing which they were addressed with one another seemed a little off (right after they have sex for the first time🤔) Overall, you could just tell this is early works writing and the craft needs to be worked on a little but a great first book into hockey romance!
Still a fun read! Should definitely check it out if you need another hockey romance in your life 😊
June 5, 2025
I love a good enemies to lovers romance, throw in sports, especially hockey, with childhood rivals and I'm all in. Ellie has fought her way to be the best at hockey, from time as a kid to college and the professional women's league. Now she's an assistant coach in the NHL. To her surprise, her childhood rival, Lincoln. Tensions are high but they decide to work together to build the team. The more time they spend together, the closer they get and realize their hatred was misplaced in the past. Can they work together on and off the ice?
May 21, 2025
I am so honored to be chosen as an arc reader for this book!
The author’s note immediately made me 100000 times more excited, I know this author is gonna do great things. It is so well written, the story is very well thought out and the characters are just *chef’s kiss*.
There is no third act breakup, and the communication
between the characters is great!
The author, having been a woman in a men dominated
field herself, really hit the nail on the head with this story, I’m in awe! And, véry important, the spice was spicing!
Easiest 5 star read ever!!!!
The author’s note immediately made me 100000 times more excited, I know this author is gonna do great things. It is so well written, the story is very well thought out and the characters are just *chef’s kiss*.
There is no third act breakup, and the communication
between the characters is great!
The author, having been a woman in a men dominated
field herself, really hit the nail on the head with this story, I’m in awe! And, véry important, the spice was spicing!
Easiest 5 star read ever!!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 288 reviews