The Penalty Player

by Kristin Lee

He's a hockey legacy, too cocky for his own good.
She's a high powered attorney and his secret love that got away.

When their friends invite them on a Caribbean summer vacation,
and they're forced together in one room—with one bed—still burning embers ignite old flames.

It's all fun and fireworks until it ends.
But as they get back to the real world, they realize it's not going to be easy.

Will they reignite their secret college flame? Or will an accidental baby and a long distance relationship keep them from a second chance?


The Penalty Player is a complete standalone in the multi-author series Hockey USA.

Hat Trick Holidate (Bryce/Emmaline) - Single Dad, Teammate's Sister, Nanny, Jilted Bride, One Night Stand
Icing the Enemy (Corbin /Oakley) - Enemies to Lovers, Marriage of Convenience, Slow Burn, Truck Stop Meet Cute
The Penalty Player (John/Becca) - Vacation, One Bed, Second Chance, Accidental Baby


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Genres: Hockey, Sports Romance, Hockey Romance

276 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 25, 2025

Reviews

[☆Megan☆ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first read from Kristin Lee and I really enjoyed it! A quick and easy read that wasn’t lacking any romance or heartwarming moments!! I also appreciated that even though this mainly took place during a tropical vacation, Kristin, the author, was still able to give us hockey scenes and drama! I truly am a sucker for a hockey romance and a brother‘s best friend romance and this book delivered both definitely recommend giving this a read!!

John Basilio plays hockey for the Dallas Rattlers and chooses to renew his contract with them against his father‘s wishes for him to play on a West Coast team. John and his father have a strained relationship because of his father‘s controlling, manipulative, and narcissistic nature.

Becca Shearer is an attorney and a dancer for NBA’s Nashville Fireflies. Fresh off her divorce she is looking to have fun, freedom, and find herself again.

John and Becca reunite at a tropical college reunion and spend the time growing closer to each other. With John being Becca‘s brother Corbin‘s best friend and Becca having a strict no athlete dating policy. They must navigate their feelings for one another and figure out how to make things work outside of their vacation bubble.

Also the bonus scene was just EVERYTHING!! So sweet and such a perfect conclusion to their story !!

Thank you to Happily Booked PR and Kristin Lee for sending this to me :))

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

While on a reunion trip/ vacation Becca and John find themselves to the the only 2 single people on the trip. Becca decides to throw cause to the wind and have some fun with John after losing her grandma and the getting divorced back to back she needs to have a good time. John is all for getting a chance to have the girl he’s loved since college.

I loved this book. Becca and John chemistry is great. John is just what Becca needs to boost her personal confidence. I also love revisiting with couple from other books in the series and the Campus Stallions series.

All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.

[Demi P. Sewell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This read is a sports romance that perfectly blends laugh-out-loud humor with some serious heat.  It's about Becca, an overworked attorney, and John, a star hockey player who's also her brother's best friend. They've been secretly crushing on each other forever, stuck in that classic hands-off zone, but the timing's never been right. That is, until a group vacation to the Caribbean lands them in a classic "one bed" situation. 😉

It's packed with all the good stuff—the delicious tension of the brother's best friend trope and the hope of a second chance, all kicked off by some classic forced proximity that leads to a huge surprise later on. John totally falls first and hard, and their chemistry practically sizzles off the page.

If you're into sports romances with a swoony hero, a strong heroine, and tons of steamy summer vibes, you'll love this one.

[Linsey Toney · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Penalty Player is a great read! I really enjoyed reading this book, and after you finish, you can get a bonus scene! This is the first book I've read from this author, and I really loved it! It's time for a friends vacation. The FMC is newly divorced, and the MMC has had a crush on her since college, but she is his BFF's little sister. Her friends are on a mission to find someone for her to hook up with. Can he shoot his shot with her, or will she find someone else? Guess you better read to find out! I think the author did a great job drawing me in and holding my attention. This book had a bit of everything from romance, spice, family drama, and an unexpected surprise, oh, and a fun dinner mystery. I would definitely recommend adding this book to your TBR if you enjoy spicy books with a great storyline. I can't wait to get my hands on more of this authors books!!

[Crystal Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have loved this series and getting to know the characters! Kristin Lee knows how to write a sports romance that I fall in love with.

Becca is now divorced and wondering where she is meant to be in life. She had sworn off dating sports players since college and hasn’t really ever told anyone why. She expected to be married and with children, not divorced and starting over. She is ready to go on vacation and live life with her brother, sister in law and friends. But she is dreading that the man she has crushed on and has been there for her John will be there and he brought his girlfriend.

John is a professional hockey player and dating a girl he is not really interested in. His dad has urged him to date her for his image, but he has only ever loved one woman, Becca. His best friend’s sister and a friend he has had since college. He had been there for Becca when she needed, but then she pushed him away and he respected it. But now that they are in close proximity again, he can’t help but feel everything strongly again.

Once John and Becca allowed each other in they were so good. Of course she was hesitant and worried that it wouldn’t last and it wasn’t real, but John made sure she knew he loved her and wanted her. It won’t be easy, but nothing in life is. Watching Becca grow was beautiful and John was going to be there to cheer her on. And he would take all her secrets and make them better if he could.

4⭐️
3🌶️

[Kelly Castillo · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Must-Read for Romance and Hockey Fans Alike!

The Penalty Player by Kristin Lee is an absolute knockout! From the first chapter, I was hooked by the sizzling chemistry between the characters and the raw emotion woven throughout the story. Kristin Lee does a fantastic job balancing the fast-paced excitement of professional hockey with a slow-burn romance that feels both real and deeply satisfying.

The main character is complex and relatable, carrying emotional baggage that makes their growth feel earned. And the love interest? Utterly swoon-worthy. Their banter, vulnerability, and the way they challenge each other make for a romance you can’t help but root for.

What truly sets this book apart is how Lee captures the tension and heart of the game while never losing sight of the emotional stakes. There’s laughter, heartbreak, redemption—and yes, some steamy scenes that will leave you breathless.

Whether you’re a fan of sports romance or just looking for a beautifully written love story, The Penalty Player delivers. It’s heartfelt, exciting, and impossible to put down. I can’t wait to read more from Kristin Lee!

[Curvy Girl Book Nerd (Jen S) · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE PENALTY PLAYER is part of the multi-authored Hockey USA series. It's a steamy, opposites-attract, vacation fling to more, forced-proximity, one-bed, girl gets her brother's best friend romance. John is a hunky hockey player. Becca is a smart and sassy attorney who is recently divorced. She is the younger sister of John's best friend. When they end up going on a friends' vacation, they are the only two single people and end up sharing a hotel with one bed. John has had a crush on her since college. She tends to avoid athletes. Can he get his shot with her? Will she let him in? What happens after vacation? This was such a fun and spicy read with plenty of hot chemistry, tender moments, and a happy ending after a little angst. I loved it!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Melissa B · Rating 3 out of 5]

-Brother's best friend
-Hockey Player/Attorney
-Always been you
-Forced proximity
-Unexpected pregnancy

He's a hockey legacy, too cocky for his own good.
She's a high powered attorney and his secret love that got away.

A cute second-chance romance about Becca and John. It was a quick, fast-paced read with some underdeveloped tropes, but the romance and spice were good.

I was given a free copy of this book and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Vivien Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is John and Becca's story. This was a really fun read. It has a lot of great tropes like: friends to lovers, brother's best friend, and second chance, hockey romance. They knew each other in college and were attracted to each other but always just remained friends. Now years later and Becca is divorced, John sees a perfect opportunity to make her his. These two were truly meant to be together. Their flirty chemistry was so good. This was a light and beautiful romance that's a nice palate cleanser.

[Frances Packingham · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good! Becca is such a girl boss! I want to be friends with her! And I want to hang out and party with the Stallions group! I can completely understand Becca's thoughts and reasoning regarding dating athletes. John is super patient and attentive, especially when it comes to Becca.I loved this book! And the bonus scene was super sweet!

[Angela Sanchez · Rating 4 out of 5]

A strong FMC that vows to not date athletes, an MMC hockey player that's going to break down all her walls. Feelings were never lost over the years, and now they are starting to resurface. This is a really good read and a great completion of the series. It's definitely a recommended read. Happy Reading Everyone!

[Nicole Scarborough · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a second chance and brothers best friend which are two of my favorites. I loved John and Becca. It flowed well. The chemistry was good and it was well written.

[Rudrashree Makwana · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is sweet, steamy and swoon-worthy. Becca is an attorney and dancer. She has divorced her husband and has been through a lot. While John is a hockey player, he renews his contract. The two of them forms a unique bond and heal each other. They reunite at a tropical college but they must make a way for they want as John is Corbin’s best friend and Corbin is Becca’s brother. The book has following tropes; forced Proximity, vacation, one bed, second chance and accidental baby.

Thanks to the Author and Publisher

[Marnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

John was perfectly in love with Becca, and I loved it.

Once again, with the release of THE PENALTY PLAYER, Author Kristin Lee has brought her readers a sports romance that combined humour, heat and romance into such a perfect blend that I will tell all who will listen that for me, it was guaranteed great reading.

While PENALTY can be absolutely read as a stand-a-lone, it started off with a Stallions reunion where we revisited the guys, their friends and their partners, so if you're like me and have read the associated books, it is the best ever to catch up with them again. If I were to advise the reading of just one book before hitting PENALTY, it would be ICING THE ENEMY where Becca's brother Corbin met his forever love.

Becca also featured as Corbin's ferocious champion even as her own marriage was failing, and at the end, she was divorced which in PENALTY led into her going along with common friends to the Stallions reunion / honeymoon for Corbin and His Little Thief.

Becca had sworn she would never date athletes and in marriage, had settled for safe and dependable. Now divorced at thirty-two, she felt unseen and undesirable, and I was still not understanding why she just couldn't take that leap of faith with John. While this is a friends-to-lovers trope, the loss of a friendship in this case didn't figure due to the fact that he was such a strong friend being more in his favour. It also differed because the it's-always-been-you aspect featured so heavily. Why Becca???? I asked myself this so often, because I would've climbed that man like a tree!

John was so PERFECT!!! He was open and honest about his love, want and need for Becca since their college days. He was encouraging, had been there as support for her through every difficult time in her life and had never let her down. He'd never even broken her heart, unlike the pain he'd suffered at her hands where he hid his own heart-break of her rejection behind c0cky bravado.

“Becca did a number on me at the ripe old age of twenty-one and here we are, a decade later, both single. By my calculations, I have this vacation to prove that we belong together. If not now, when?”

I loved his introspection as he compared himself to Corbin and their individual approaches to waiting for that right someone to love.

“Maybe I should have been more like Corbin and sworn off women until the right one was ready for me. He’s mentally stronger than me—my libido wanted (seggs) and my mind needed a distraction from Becca.”

Unfortunately, John had another battle that Corbin and his friends had no knowledge of, and that was trying to come out from under the controlling arm of his father. Unlike Corbin with a loving and supportive family who looked out for each other, John's one parental, his father, controlled every aspect of his life, including who he was dating. Stella had been pushed onto him, and hell's teeth, he even told John to propose!

“Have a good time with Stella. Maybe it’s time for you to pop the question,” he says ... He reaches into his pocket and hands me a white velvet box. “What’s this?” “A ring. Ask Stella to marry you on this trip.” 😵

Yeah, not bl👀dy likely!!! His father had overseen all areas of his hockey career and personal life, but this was a step too far. After yet another fight over her obsession with her SM content presence and the discovery of a secret, she left, and once again, John was single, just as Becca was. Stella might have only been gone a few hours, but to John, she'd never really been a part of his life. Not in the way Becca had taken up a permanent residence in his psyche. His message to her was as consistent as it was simple. It had always been her;

“(Stella) was just a fill-in for the woman I’ve been waiting for.”

“Did you ever love her?” I don’t even have to think about that answer. “No. I’ve loved one person in my life, and I’m looking at her.”

“You didn’t fail. You married the wrong man. There’s a difference”

As I look through only a fraction of the quotes I loved, I have to say that I believe THE PENALTY PLAYER was beautifully romance heavy but not to the detriment of the many sexy times that John and Becca shared. He put his heart on the line, prepared to win or lose it all and I loved him so much for that. Add in parental drama, an over-protective brother, interfering well-meaning friends, a surprise pregnancy and the usual hockey excitment, and you'll be reading another guaranteed great read from Author Kristin Lee that is a 5-Star-heavy-romance-spicy-hockey-read 💙❤️✦

#fbombromancereads #mumsalwaysreading #bookblogger #bookreviewer #bookreview #marnsreads #marnsj

[Char (1RadReader59) · Rating 5 out of 5]

She always dreamed of having the perfect family like her parents—a husband who can’t get enough of her, kids to snuggle, and a dog to play fetch in the backyard. Instead, she’s standing in the living room of her downtown condominium, divorced. Before she divorced Dennis, at least there was the occasional clinking of a wine glass or the thumping of fingers against a keyboard. Now, it’s noiseless. Before Mamaw passed away, she told her, “Queen Bee.” That’s her nickname for her. “Just like Corbin, you need someone to widen your horizons, push you out of your comfort zone, and make your body quake.”

“Mamaw!” “Well, isn’t that why you wanted a divorce? You weren’t getting any lovin’.” “My sweet Becca, you’ve made us all proud. You’re giving, intelligent, athletic, and stubborn. You told Dennis what you needed, and he couldn’t or didn’t want to give it to you. I think you were in love with a lifestyle. Fine wine and intellectual conversations. When what you need is a hell-raising, beer-drinking man who loves to be surrounded by friends and family. Dennis never wanted to be around our family or Corbin’s friends.

Who doesn’t love all those sweet Stallions?” Her brother Corbin and his wife Oakley insist that she’ll find happiness. Oakley, who has no filter, keeps saying, “She needs to quit worrying about whom she thinks she should be with and be with a person who looks at her like she’s a bag of cotton candy at the county fair.” Corbin was wondering if she was ready for the big Stallions reunion. Corbin tells her he’s so happy she’s going to be there. It’s going to be epic. Corbin’s voice oozes joy. Before he found Oakley at the truck stop, he was controlled and on the reserved side, but now he almost sings. “I’m ready.” “Are you? Because you sound unhappy.” “Is John still coming?” “He is…” Corbin hesitates, “He’s…” “What?” “He’s back with his ex. She’s coming too.” “We’re friends. It’s fine.”

John Basilio has been in love with Becca Shearer, however, he couldn’t say anything to Corbin. The reason is that her younger brother is his best friend. It’s not like they were a couple, but they were close in college. Maybe too close. He’s never had deep or meaningful conversations with other women or girlfriends; Becca is the only one. Yet, he was taking his on-again, off-again girlfriend basically to keep her happy. Content was what was important to her. Having her content go viral is what made her happy.

But was John happy? No, nope. After they broke up the last time, his dad made sure that he saw the light, holding one bad deed over his head that happened as a kid. But, John couldn’t wait to get to the reunion to see Becca. Let’s just say without a doubt Stella knew Becca was a threat to her relationship with John. But when she tried to isolate him from the group and make a scene he broke up with her. That's when the truths were revealed. She threatened to tell his daddy too.

[Lauren Sabolcik · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Penalty Player by Kristin Lee made me laugh, cry, and blush. It’s a trope lover’s dream, serving up brother’s best friend, friends-to-lovers, second chance, vacation romance, and so much more.

On one hand, you’ve got Becca Shearer—a Type-A attorney with deep roots in competitive cheerleading and a heart big enough for everyone she meets. She’s smart, caring, and almost guaranteed to overthink every situation. But she has her reasons. Becca comes from a huge, storybook family, and while they bring the warmth, she’s still carrying the weight of a trauma she’s kept hidden since college. Recently divorced from her dud of a husband, she’s finally on a mission to reclaim herself—emotionally, physically, and sexually.

On the other hand, you have John Basilio. With the pro hockey nickname “The Godfather,” you’d expect full-on cocky playboy vibes—and yes, he delivers on that front. But when it comes to Becca, he’s the most delicious kind of cinnamon roll. He’s been orbiting her world for 15 years, through heartbreak, grief, and all the messy in-betweens. And when it comes to showing up for her? He’s rock solid—despite never having anyone do the same for him.

The emotional intimacy and spice in this one are gorgeous. Yes, it’s super spicy (chapter 15 had me on my knees 😉), but Kristin Lee balances the heat with beautifully layered vulnerability and soul-deep connection.

What I loved most is how real these two feel. Becca’s past trauma is handled with care and depth. John’s history—with a toxic father and a lonely upbringing—makes his protectiveness and patience hit that much harder.

Oh—and if the phrase “my girl” gets your knees weak like it does mine? You need to meet John Basilio. He’s got dimples, a nervous stutter, and the kind of swagger that’s made even more swoony by his genuine heart—especially for one petite, stubborn cheerleader-turned-lawyer.

It’s sweet, it’s spicy, it’s full of heart—and if you love your sports romance with a heavy dose of healing, humor, and heat, this one is a must-read.

Final Verdict:
💫 Tropes for days
💞 Soulmate-level connection
🔥 Heat in all the right places
🥹 A baby name that wrecked me
🌴 A beach setting that reminds me what free time looks like

Huge thank you to Kristin Lee and Happily Booked PR for the ARC on this one. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

[Lindsey Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

What a wonderful, quick read from Kristin Lee. The Penalty Player is part of her Hockey USA Romance series. I was immediately pulled in by the promise of hockey but was held captive by the drama that ensued between our MCs. Their whirlwind romance was such a fund read, but layered and complex. As they figure out their feelings, Kristin gives her readers spice, fun, and love.

John loves playing for the Dallas Rattlers and is renewing his contract. His father isn’t happy about him playing for a West Coast team, but being able to stick it to his dad is part of the appeal. They have had a strained relationship for some time. His father isn’t a good person. While at a college reunion, he begins to spend time with his best friend’s little sister. They spend a lot of time together and feel a connection to one another. But with her being his best friend’s little sister and she not wanting to date athletes, where do they go from here?

Becca is newly divorced and ready to live her life. When she meets John, she can’t deny the pull she feels towards him. What she doesn’t know is John has had a crush on her since their time in college. Becca is the FMC that I love reading about. Wants to have fun, but is hard working and dedicated. She isn’t reckless, but isn’t afraid to take risks either.

I haven’t read Kristin before and will definitely be reading more of her hockey books. Both our MCs are wonderful to get to know and their story is well worth the read. I really enjoyed the side characters as well. They brought fun and laughter to the storyline, while supporting our MCs every step of the way. As the story progresses, I loved seeing them both open up to each other and really let one another in. They both healed a part of the other that was beautiful to read about.

As always, review any author notes before reading.

What to Expect:
🏒Attorney FMC
🔥Hockey Player MMC
🏒Vacation Hookup
🔥Best Friend’s Sister
🏒One Bed
🔥He Falls First and Hard
🏒Accidental Baby
🔥Always Been You

[Joanne Barton · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Penalty Player” is the sixth book in “The Hockey USA Romance Collection.” John Basilio and Becca Shearer have known each other since university and are part of the Kentucky Stallions team. “We partied at the hockey plex during baseball season, at Logan’s house during hockey season, and at the Home Run House during football season. Everyone knows everyone.”

John currently plays hockey for the Dallas Rattler’s and Becca is an attorney in Nashville - ten hours away. In university she was a cheerleader and also competed competitively at the world titles. Now she is a dancer for NBA’s Nashville Fireflies. “Cheering for the Kentucky Stallions and making the USA Team has been the highlight of my life.”

John has been in love with Becca since university but she had a “no jocks dating rule” so nothing ever happened. Now, ten years latter she is freshly divorced, she wants to kick up her heals and have fun! The Campus Stallions ten year reunion, in the Caribbean, is perfect time - just what the doctor ordered. Maybe her and John stand a chance…..the man she has had a crush on since university. Then she finds out that John is bringing on and off again girlfriend, Stella. In less than twenty four hours, he finds out that she has been also sleeping with his dad….and now she is gone - for good!

“Her hair is in a bun on top of her head with two tendrils brushing over her temples. I wrap a piece around my finger, holding it steady without looking her in the eyes. “She was just a fill-in for the woman I’ve been waiting for.”

“I’ve always known what you need,” he whispers, and his voice sends chills up my body. My legs prickle, and he grins again, removing his hand.
He lifts a brow and draws me in as he throws his arm around my shoulder. “Admit it. You need me. You want me.”

Once they open up and let each other in - they realise how good they are together. The story is beautiful, a love story for the ages. You will laugh, you will cry, you will get frustrated, you will even get angry at times but most of all, you will hoping that everything will work out for them! I have also enjoyed this book being entwined with the “Campus Stallions series” - catching up with all our favourites!

Once I started reading, I could not put this book down! This book will charm “the pants off you” and leave you going back for more. I thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful love story. You cannot help yourself, you will fall in love with John and Becca 💞 From page to page, chapter to chapter, from cover to cover - you will enjoy this beautiful story! This book will not disappoint! Highly recommended 😊

[Dom K · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Surprises are best when undressed slowly. Don't you think?"
⭐⭐⭐🌶️🌶️
Over all I very much enjoyed Becca and John's story. The chemistry is great and things flows well. There's enough mystery to keep me intrigued outside of their love story.
I really enjoyed how all the characters interacted together, this is my first by Kristin Lee, and I would be super interested in Oakley and Corbin's story.
Becca and John reconnect at a collage reunion for some fun in the sun. Surrounded by an amazing cast, having to share a bed (the horror!), and navigating their feelings while still thinking about the future. They do have their own baggage to work through; that adds another layer to the plot.
The elephant in the story that I did not like, was how glazed over Beccas past trauma was. She blames herself for what happened at that party (I get that internalized victim blaming is a normal response) but I think in this case, John should have reassured her that she was taken advantage of and that it wasn't her fault. Instead of telling her, he also made mistakes in college. This part did put a damper on how much I was enjoying the overall story and falling in love with John. He does, later in the story, tell her that she wasn't to blame but for me it was too little too late.
I didn't see that plot twist coming. And it was a great set up, I do, however, think the ending was a bit anticlimactic.
As a part of an interconnected standalone series, I'm sure there will be some more follow up for John's plot twist story line.
Becca does get some closure from her attack, but it does feel a tad bit unfinished.
All in all it's a fun, beachy read. It's just not one I would reach for again.

[Laura Caswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stallions Reunion = fun times and falling in love! John and Becca have known each other since college, and John has been in love with Becca since he has known her. Reality is that Becca is in love with John, but won't admit it. After a traumatic experience with an athlete in college, Becca has sworn off athletes and firmly friend zoned John.

Fresh off a divorce from a vanilla-kind of guy, Becca is taking the Stallions reunion on a Caribbean beach as her time to recharge and rejuvenate. She is excited to see all of her friends and family, but she is a little hesitant to see John. When circumstances cause John and Becca to share a room, all bets are off, especially when they bond over their fear of lizards! Becca knows that John is a great guy, and he is not backing down on showing her as much as possible how he feels about her.

Circumstances seem to be working against them when they leave the beach, because John quickly becomes embroiled in a betting scandal which could ruin his career. When Becca finds out their vacation is going to leave a lasting impression, she is very upset when John starts ghosting her. Once John can talk about the scandal and how everything was resolved, they find their happily ever after in the best way!

John and Becca could be my favorite Stallions couple!! John is so determined to have what they both want and it shows in everything he does for Becca. Kristin Lee definitely has a hat trick with this one! 10/10 Highly recommend!

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

What happens when they are on vacation her friend cancels and he gives his room to a friend and they end up having to room together?

I read this book as an ARC and really liked it.

Can I start this by saying I really didn’t like John’s father. The way he acted had me wanting to strangle him. OMG the thing we find out about his father and his girlfriend had me shocked but not at the same time! I’m not going I say what happened but let’s just say it made me hate his father more. He does kinda redeem himself in the end but I still don’t like him.

Where do I start with John and Becca? They had the possibility of having something but she stopped it from happening with a voice mail saying she couldn’t do this. She was fresh of a divorce and said she didn’t trust her emotions at that time but still. Now they are stuck rooming together because their friend didn’t have a room and would have had to go somewhere else if John didn’t give them his room. I loved their story and found it really sweet especially since they technically had history. The secret we learn about why she wouldn’t date athletes had me wanting to hug her. That ending was the perfect way to wrap up their story. Everything happened as it should and everyone got what they deserved.

Overall I really liked this story and will definitely be reading more from this author.

Also I loved was seeing Oakley and Corbin again. Their book was the first one I read in this series and seeing them again made me really happy because I loved them. If you haven’t read their book you have to because it was sweet and funny.

[Kare · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 ⭐️

John and Becca were everything!!! The way they have been pining over each other had me rooting for them so hard!!!

John is a hockey player who has some daddy issues.
He is with someone at the beginning of the book, but not for long because his heart belongs to Becca, his best friend's sister. John has always loved Becca, but she always had her reasons why they couldn't be together, but when her grandmother dies he is the one who consoles her and is their for her. John was such a fun-loving person who I really enjoyed reading about, especially his relationship with his father because things were messy!🙌🏼

Becca swore off jocks, but she had never gotten over John since college. She has recently divorced and is ready to explore during her vacation with her friends and family.

Becca is on the journey of rediscovering herself and one thing she knows is that she loves cheerleading. The way it made her feel free and happy was an amazing start to her journey. I did really enjoy how she began to be more carefree because she really wasn't in the other books, so to see that in her book was exciting.

These two had some really hot tension that was never explored until now. I loved how John was always by her side and how gentle he was. Not only that but patience with her. Like how he took action when he found out Becca was pregnant and how excited he was to be a dad!

Overall, Becca and John were my anticipated book to read because the tension could be seen from previous books.🔥

[Yasmin Mendoza · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sixth book of the series titled “The Hockey USA Romance Collection” and my first time reading Kristin Lee’s books. And I completely fell in love with her writing style. The way she is able to use descriptive writing in detail when it comes to John’s inner monologues are top tier 🙂‍↕️

This is the story of Becca, who is the younger sister of Corbin and best friends with John. Becca is recently divorced from Dennis and is trying to figure out her life and get back on track with what she wants in life. Every year, they have a Stallions reunion and all their friends come along, including John. Corbin doesn’t know what went down with them but reminds Becca that she friendzoned him and he is coming on this trip. And once again, got back together with his on and off again girlfriend. Becca stays quiet and tries to deal with the vacation.

John has been in love with Becca for a while now and it’s disheartening to know that he is with his on and off again girlfriend who, in my opinion, is a brat 😅 John ends up finding out something so twisted and diabolical and he breaks up with his girlfriend. Becca and John end up spending their vacation together 😉

This book was so cute and adorable. The way that John still had feelings for Becca but didn’t want to make her uncomfortable until she was sure of her own emotions is such a gentleman thing to do. I love the dynamics between all of the characters and their friends :) especially the banter that the girls have with the guys 🤭

Rating: 5/5
Steamy scenes: 🔥🔥🔥🔥

[Rebecca Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Penalty Player is a best friend's sibling, vacation romance. This book features Becca Shearer and John Basilio.

John plays hockey for the Dallas Rattlers. Becca, a former competitive cheerleader, is now a lawyer. She also dances for the Nashville Fireflies. (Definite Elle Woods vibes!) She was married but has recently finalized her divorce and is trying to find herself again.

Becca and John have known one another for years. John has always loved Becca but she was adamant that she was not going to date an athlete. The two messed around a little but never officially dated. Over the years they have continued to be friends, but never crossed the line into a relationship.

When the two join friends for a Caribbean vacation, they find themselves spending a lot of time together. When they end up sharing a room, Becca might be forced to admit her feelings and break her own rule.

In addition to this delightful love story, there another storyline surrounding John's relationship with his overbearing and controlling father. The man, a renown hockey player, sees it as his job to dictate John's every move, including where he should play and who he should marry. When John finally says enough is enough, his father essentially threatens him. This conflict was the perfect addition to the book to add contrast to the happy couple's connection.

I believe this was the first book I've read by Lee but it won't be my last. The characters have great chemistry, and the side characters add a lot to the overall storyline. While this is a standalone story, it is part of her Hockey USA series. After this one, I'm keen to explore those too!

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Penalty Player by Kristin Lee is rather nice ,even when skating on thin ice well thin blades ,but he has only ever loved one thing more than hockey . His best mate’s sister Bex/Becca . Because for her he’d travel all the way to Mecca just to hear her say she’s his. But it took him long enough to let her know this , that he’s always loved her so. Yes they messed around a little and it was fun , but a new chapter has just begun. With friends onside and secrets to hide ,regrets are put aside . Maybe one day he will make her his bride . There might even be a lucky lizard make an appearance and he’d gladly accept the interference call ,when it came down to it all. He’d shoot the puck and try his luck to score with a shot on goal .This book has it all ,it has sweet as honey and twice as funny ,heat too phew. It has romance and a will they won’t they have their happy ever after dance? There’s also a lot of angst you see and the solving of a mystery or three to boot. The whole storytelling is ever so compelling , a hoot! Most of all Kristin Lee being so astute ,has made these characters ever so cute ,and endearing? They’re awesome,I’m tearing as I read with greed. A very well put together story indeed! Wonderful prose and a divine storyline too. Ain’t nothing Kristin Lee can’t write her stories are such delight .

[Jessica's Book Review · Rating 2 out of 5]

The Penalty Player by Kristin Lee had a lot of potential. I enjoyed the storyline but not so much the execution.

Written in dual POV between Becca, a divorcee, attorney and John, a professional hockey player. The two have known one another since college and were always “so close” to making a relationship work over the years but Becca was always hesitant due to her no dating athletes rule.

While on a college reunion with friends trip the two are the only singles and forced to match up which leads to their feelings being discussed and finally getting together.

This is a super quick, fall in love right away type read. Absolutely no buildup. Which is what lost me. John tells Becca he loves her within days and they have sex within a day or two on their trip. Pregnancy is thrown in and some other things that cause a less than stellar drama that is resolved on a page. The first 25% I really liked but after that it was all just too fast and quick for my liking.

There are also A TON of characters in this book that they have known since college and apparently they have all had their own books. I had no idea and was really confused on backstory mentions of these characters. The secondary characters were way overused. The author needed to focus on Becca & John. This one wasn’t for me.

I give The Penalty Player by Kristin Lee 2 stars.

[Emma B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Becca is a lawyer, divorced after marrying the wrong man, and on a tropical reunion holiday with all her friends (who play for various different professional sports teams) and her brother.
John plays professional hockey, and is Becca and her brother, Corbin's, long-time friend. He's always been there for them, especially when Becca's Mamaw passed away. John loves Becca, but for reasons unknown to him, Becca has always pushed him away and stated her 'no jocks' rule. Could this holiday be just the thing they need for him to prove himself to her?

I loved the first half of this book. It was well thought out and really enjoyed the storyline of them all being on holiday together. I love that John is so set on Becca and their story together. The second half I found kind of rushed, and it jumped around quite a bit. There were a few times I had to re-read over as I wasn't sure how they actually got to that point or where they were (maybe some information taken out?). It also ends quite abruptly. The other thing is that I found there to be a lot of characters to keep track of. Some are key, and some are only mentioned once or twice. The good thing about all the characters is that they all have their own stories, too! But overall, I really enjoyed this read and devoured it over two days.
Thank you, Kristin Lee, and Happily Booked PR for the opportunity to read this ARC

[Cassi B · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could only have one photo of Becca to keep forever, it wouldn’t be a sexy boudoir shot or a photo in a bikini. It would be a portrait of her blushing.

🦎🦎🦎🦎🦎

🌴Lawyer FMC
🏒 Hockey Player MMC
🌴 Tropical Vacation Hookup
🏒 Best Friend’s Sister
🌴 One Bed, All the Heat
🏒 He’s All In, First & Fast
🌴 Surprise Baby
🏒 Second-Chance Soulmates

🦎🦎🦎🦎🦎

The freaking lizard is the true MVP & best wingman here! 😂

John and Becca were always there for each other from the time they met in college until she could no longer handle their closeness during her divorce.  The chemistry, understanding, and love were always there for both of them, but she had steadfast rules against athletes...but he never gave up. His on/off girlfriend was truly a placeholder that he was forced with through his father.

NGL, the surprise pregnancy that's mentioned in the blurb is not what I was expecting. I was completely leaning a different way on who got that pink plus sign. I like being surprised though. 🤪

I think John's dad needs to do a lot more groveling with these two before he's allowed back in.

Overall, I loved it and can't wait to read more in this world. I enjoyed the college reunion aspect to this and the fact it wasn't only hockey.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's the Campus Stallions reunion in the Caribbean and Becca Shearer was invited to go since her brother is a part of the group. She's looking forward to getting out of town for a bit after being recently divorced.

John Basilio plays hockey for the Dallas Rattlers and can't wait to get to the reunion. His best friend Corbin will be there as well as Corbin's sister Becca. He and Becca have been friends since college and he's loved her for as long but the timing was never right for them and of course she wasn't going to date a hockey player let alone her brother being happy that she would.
But things change when they end up having to share a room at the resort. The chemistry is there and yes the line is crossed.

What happens when vacation is over and the real world is now? Both have secrets they haven't shared and it could tear them apart for good.

4 stars
I thought the beginning was chaotic and keeping up with who's who was difficult especially if you didn't know who all the players were. I liked when they went home and the twists and turns that happened.

[Allison Comis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was about Becca. She was a former cheerleader who did competitive cheer. She loved it. When she was finished with school to become a lawyer she stepped back from that world and became a cheerleader for a football team. She loved it. Her brother was a hockey player so she often went to his games. He had a best friend John that had a crush on her and she had one on him as well. Since he was her brothers best friend they didn’t go into a relationship as much as they both wanted it. Becca married a guy that she thought she loved but they weren’t right for each other and got divorced. Corbin (brother) had a reunion coming up for his whole hockey team. Becca went as well. John was there so they all hung out together. John brought his on and off again girlfriend Stella but he really didn’t want her there. They got into a fight and he told her to leave. He never really wanted to be with her anyway. He found out some things and that’s why they fought. He was in love with Becca. This trip was an eye opener for both of them. Loved the book. Must read.