Puck of the Irish

Vipers Sin Bin #2

by K.D. Miller

Natalie Morgan

One night. That was all it was supposed to be. One night of fun to scratch an irresistible itch, and after that, back to being just friends. After all, Anthony Rizzo is hockey’s most notorious playboy. He’s never even heard the word monogamy, so feeling anything real for him would be a terrible idea. But despite the promise of one-and-done, I can’t seem to stay away from the Vipers’ star center. I know it’s only going to lead to heartbreak, especially since I’m still hiding so much from him, but I can’t stop myself from falling…

Anthony Rizzo

One night is nowhere near enough for me when it comes to Nat. I’m more surprised than anyone with that revelation, trust me, but it’s true. It’s more than physical and I’d be an idiot to think I can ignore the feelings growing stronger and stronger every day. I’ll admit that I have no idea what I’m doing when it comes to a real relationship, but for Nat, I’m willing to try. For her, I’m willing to do just about anything. The obstacles in our path want to try to take her from me?

Good pucking luck.

Genres: Sports, Hockey

247 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 17, 2025

Reviews

[Amber Batchelor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Obsessed with hockey romance and Puck of the Irish by KD Miller didn’t disappoint in that department. If you think the book is only about St Patty’s day you will be wrong. It’s just a special day to the MMC because his mom is Irish. I really enjoyed the spice (and there is a lot of it because they are horny AF once they started). I also loved the growth and character development for both the FMC with her independence from her dad and the MMC with turning into an actual adult with adult relationships. The banter was there and I’m here for it! Overall I highly recommend this book if you are lover of sports romance or want to dive into that genre, or even if you just like romance. It’s a PUCK of a good time.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm OBSESSED with all the guys on the team, like. Legitimately would want to meet them 🤣

[Sara J [saras kindle era] · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars! I love love love this friends to lovers hockey romance! I loved Rizzo & Nat from book 1, and their story did NOT disappoint!

Rizzo is the typical f*ckboy, but he & Nat have a INSANE chemistry, even before they cross any lines. I personally loooove that they have a strong friendship as a foundation, & it makes their love even better! Their love is spiiiiiicy! That chemistry is WILD, & so are they! PHEW!

The way their one night only turned into pining on both parts, and then one more time, then another, & so on lol. They fall hard, & y'all know I love a down bad man, & Rizzo was a goner for Nat! I looooved his development into a one woman/wanting a future man! While they are super spicy, they also have so much more to them, & that friendship foundation makes them so good together! They bring out the best in the other & I ate it up!

PS: Nat's complicated relationship with her father was an element that I hated for her, but also enjoyed because she stood strong for herself & what she wanted for herself, with no apologies. She set & held her boundaries because she knew it was what SHE needed!

[Amy Lois · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is my first ARC.

Right off the bat the main two characters hook up. There isn’t really any build up of their dynamic. It’s just straight to the point. Due to this- I thought I wouldn’t be able to really get into this book.

There is more that meets the eye with this book. It has the banter, friends to lovers, he falls first, spice, text dialogue, loss of parent, and family drama. I did enjoy the potential of having a book for the other two friends in the book- story of Hattie & Connor (edit- didn’t realize this is the second book to H & C’s story!) and Bobby & Mystery Man.

I will say there are times that I didn’t realize it was a flashback conversation til after the fact. I would have appreciated some spacing or more clarification. It was slightly confusing. The ending seemed rushed like the beginning. I would have preferred the book to end after the engagement then follow up with an epilogue.

Overall- was cute, pulled on heart strings, 4/5

[Darcy Koetsier · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a really good book! Plenty of spice and really nice banter. I know it can be read as a standalone, but reading the first in the series first will make this one better. I got confused on the characters at one point between real names, nicknames and what others call them.

[Crystal Westrick · Rating 4 out of 5]

First I want to thank K.D. Miller for allowing me to get an ARC of her newest book.

The main thing about this book is lots of hockey smut and I’m here for it. And then added a dog in like what could be better? However I do have to say that I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 because personally the ending seemed rushed as it was lots going on in the last couple of chapters. Also kind of sad that the book ended how it did and didn’t have more Irish or St. patty say stuff in it since it is a St. patty’s day book.

[Cameo Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 in A Vipers Sin Bin Series.
Chefs kiss! This book goes hand in hand with Puck the Holidays(book 1), but it follows the story of Natalie and Rizzo.
Amazing storyline and spice right out the gate!!!

Great book would read again. I love the friends to lovers trope

#friendsfirst
#oneanddone
#hothockeyromance

[Abbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a fun read I did enjoy it however I really struggled to connect with the characters.
I don’t know why maybe diving into their backstory a little earlier might have helped with that I’m not sure.

I loved how at first it was Nat that set the boundaries of the “one night only” that definitely threw Rizzo through a loop, watching him go from a notorious playboy to a complete simp for Nat was incredible! Haha also watching them time and time again not stick to that rule was entertaining as hell.

Thanks so much to K.D for the arc in exchange for an honest review I’m extremely appreciative.

[Brooke Simpson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Okay, I really enjoyed this story! I read the first book and was hooked right away! The thought of this being about Riz and Nat had me hyped!

I think if I had one critique in this at all (which is why I would give it the 2 stars despite enjoying the story), it would be wanting more world building, or writing out more scenes that are discussed that seem like they are rather important to the plot. As well as maybe diving into more of the backstory earlier as opposed to later. It personally would allow me to grow more attached to the characters and the plot. The story itself is good, I just felt like I kept wanting to know more and get more descriptors of things.

The plot itself though, I enjoyed. Seeing things that played out in Shep and Hattie’s story play out here was really cool in other POVs, especially seeing how those things played roles in this whole relationship itself.

AJ Rizzo going from playboy to being as WHIPPED as he was is incredible! The way I’m sure many of us wish we had men swooning over us like that really sealed the deal for it with me. The way he was going to throw hands with Nats dad had me in a chokehold because same dude. And he’s hilarious! His banter with just about everyone is incredible

Nat is the cutest thing! And just trying to make a name and a life for herself out of her families shadow. I have a personal understanding of that and it makes me love her on a deeper level.

I’d be open to reading more in this series if it was to arise! I just need more world building and descriptors early on!

[Mauli · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Received as an ARC*

Puck of the Irish is a fast-paced hockey romance (and work romance) and the 2nd book in a series by KD Miller. The story is told from both the perspective of the MFC & MMC in alternating chapters, which can sometimes be overwhelming or even obnoxious (a la Game of Thrones) but works out really well in this novel. The two MC obviously have some back history, and, although platinc, there is some obvious level of attraction that has not been acted upon - instead just expressed in "friendly flirtations" which finally cross the line at the very beginning.

Moving forward from an evening of very enjoyable company, they them spend the book trying to put a name to what they're doing and feeling, while attempting to balance their professional relationship and Nat's complicated family dynamic. There's definite chemistry between the two, and when they finally break down (thanks traumatic event!), they finally admit to themselves and each other that they want more. Then there's a dog (who doesn't love a doggo), a blow-up with the nearly estranged father, love words, and an engagement in the last 20% of the book.

I will admit that parts of the novel seemed rushed (ending for one, which appears to be a common commentary), the spice was spicy but not in an off-putting or gratuitous way, and it was well written. I will, however, say that the word "fuck" and it's many variations was a bit excessive (and I'm not against swearing AT ALL) and mildly annoying. It didn't add to the dialog, and was so overdone early on I was mildly annoyed but the word.

[Pheobe Harper · Rating 4 out of 5]

Upon receiving this book as an ARC I went to read the first book in the series so I was able to understand the characters and any hints of future story I may have missed. I’m so glad I did as the last quarter of the first book and the first quarterish of this book are the same but this part is from Nat & Rizzo’s POV. It was nice to see how their relationship was developing behind the scenes while knowing what happened with Hattie & Shep.


Their relationship does seem to jump quite fast but they also pretty much spend all of their time together, either at work, hanging out in a group with others or just the pair of them. From Rizzo having a new puck bunny most nights to then wanting to have a serious relationship with Nat after one night, proves how well they work together. 


I liked to see Nat stand her ground against her dad but it was sad to see her doing it on her own for the most part and not fully tell Hattie or Rizzo the full story.


This book has everything you could want from romance, spice, friendship, found family, drama and all the feelings. 


I can’t wait to read more from this group of friends and I also have a sneaky feeling on the pairing for the next couple from the Vipers sin bin. 


Also Is there anywhere I can sign up to join the Vipers sin bin group, I need some friends like them all. 

[Edith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Puck of the Irish by KD Miller, follows the life of playboy hockey player, Anthony Rizzo and the Viper’s media assistant, Natalie Morgan. Anthony is known for being the Vipers lady’s man while Nat is more of a reserved and kept to herself kind of person. They build a friendship within their work relationship where Natalie is able to see Rizzo for more than what he is portrayed as everywhere. She sees him for a smart, loving and caring man; not only to his family but to his fans. Rizzo on the other hand, enjoys spending time with Natalie. He feels like he can be himself but his notorious reputation gets in the way of taking things a step further with Nat. He doesn’t even know if he wants too even after what was supposed to be a one night stand begins to feel like something more. Natalie struggles with opening up and accepting change while he isn’t sure he can change. This book is full of longing, angst, belonging, acceptance and trust. There is so much chemistry between the two, that you can feel it. For those of you that love some steamy romance, it has that too. Puck of the Irish shows how two people can be looking for the opposite things but can come together and build something special when everything is founded on a friendship. Don’t miss out. Highly recommend

[Rachel Smith Horn · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you want a cute love story that makes you go "awww", this is for you.

Anthony Rizzo is a playboy, and he isn't afraid of commitment, it just never crossed his mind. No one had ever been special enough to be more than a one night stand. When he first sees Natalie Morgan, though, he is drawn to her and the more time he spends with her the more he falls.

Natalie Morgan has taken her mother's last name to get away from her father's legacy. She has a father who wants her to follow in his footsteps, but he doesn't realize that Natalie is not him and she has her own wants and desires. When she first sees the handsome Rizzo, she vows to not get involved regardless of how handsome he is. Okay, maybe once, okay one more time but that's it... you know how it goes. Rizzo is a good friend, but to be more? Is it possible for the man she nicknames "thirst trap?"

This isn't a slow burn in attraction, but in realizing they have deep and abiding feelings for each other it is very slow. Natalie gets in her own way, and Rizzo is clueless when it comes to relationships but he's willing to try for her. He does well, and it's adorable.

Bring on more of the Sin Bin!

[Amy Sayger · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this book was so freaking cute. I loved both the main characters so much and i loved their banter. I’m not typically the biggest friends
to lovers fan, but I thought this was done so well, probably since they weren’t childhood friends.

I also feel partial to liking this since Stitch is my all time
favorite character. And the greatest showman is my favorite movie. So those little nods made me love this book even more.

My biggest problem is that I feel like we could have w gotten a little more inside on Natalie’s family dynamic a little earlier. We met him early in the book but I feel like we didn’t get as much info on who he was and their relationship and how he basically owns Seattle.

My only other problem was that I wish when they went back in time, it was a little more clear that we were reading in the past (like at the end when AJ was telling us how his meeting went with Natalie’s Dad.)

Other than that I really adored this book. i thought the spice was well written and not overwhelming.

[Traci_reads_ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored Rizzo & Nat together. Rizzo is the typical notorious hockey player who's never been in a relationship. Nat works for his hockey organization. They have the same circle of friends; they flirt but never take it any further. They both have an itch they need to scratch, a one-time thing just to get it out of their system. Their trysts become much much more. He falls hard & is more than eager to give them a shot. Nat is apprehensive but can't stop her true feelings & their great friendship turns into an even better relationship.

Their banter is top tier, their chemistry is off the charts & they're so much fun together. Love all the side supporting friend group. You'll love this if you like a friends to lovers hockey romance.

[Darby · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first ARC book, and I was really surprised at how much I enjoyed it.

I’ve read my share of hockey romances. I was unsure if I would enjoy this one since I didn’t read the first book. However, I felt the characters were really genuine. Even though there wasn’t a ton of build up for me of their actually backgrounds, I still really enjoyed the characters themselves. I really identified with Natalie in the whole dad department. I felt like there was just the right amount of twists I didn’t see coming.

I did feel like some of the situations were a bit rushed. I felt like a lot of the major parts happened all at once. I think it would help readers to have some “Two months later” and etc. put in there to help the timeline of events. I also thought it didn’t need as much spice as it had. I enjoyed the scenes early on that were not detailed. If people are wanting some spice, this book has plenty for you. If you don’t like spice, you’re going to have to skip over some pages. Haha.

All in all, I give it a 4/5. I’ll definitely be reading more from KD Miller.

[Penny Leidecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was eagerly waiting for this book and I wasn’t disappointed with Natalie (Nat) Morgan and Anthony (AJ) Rizzo’s book. They start out as just friends, but their chemistry scorches the pages and eventually they agree to give in to their desires for one night only. We see just how that turns out with this must read page turner. AJ has an amazing relationship with his mom, which I loved. Nat has a so-so relationship with her dad and doesn’t tell anyone who her dad is. This plays into the story, as we learn the more we read. I also loved reading more about Hattie and Connor’s story, Nat and AJ’s best friends. I won’t leave any spoilers, so if you enjoy hockey, romance, and close friends, grab your copy and see what happens.

[Tiff (MaliciousReader) · Rating 4 out of 5]

🤍💚 Rizzo and Nat 💚🤍

Not going to lie, I fell in love with these two in Puck the Holidays. I was so excited to have this feature their journey together.

As opposed to Hattie and Shep's story, there is no slow burn here. Pure fire from cover to cover. While Rizzo is an infamous playboy, Nat isn't a saint either when it comes to commitment. She has her own demons, albeit in a different context.

I loved seeing each come to terms with both who they are as well as who they could be, *together*.

The setup was different than most interwoven standalones I've read. I quite enjoyed seeing some of the scenes play out from book 1, from this couple's perspective.

**Thank you so much to the author for an ARC!**

[kayleighsBookCorner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I honestly have no idea why I've never read a hockey romance before. With this being my first, I'm in love with them.

I love Nat and Rizzos' story. I love it when the MMC goes from being a notorious playboy to changing for the woman he loves. Add in the fact that these two were friends first and already had that connection, made it all the more lovable. And their banter on top of all that was so good.

I enjoyed the fact that this wasn't a slow burn. There was spice from the get-go, but that spice didn't take away from the overall story.

This book can easily be read in one sitting, and I highly recommend it for anyone who is a fan of hockey romances

[Kelly Quinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed the book. The characters Nat and Rizzo are endearing, and the narrative maintained a consistently positive and engaging tone from beginning to end. This hockey romance is among the best I've encountered, particularly appreciating its friends-to-lovers storyline. While this installment of the Vipers Sin Bin series can be read independently, I recommend reading *Puck the Holidays* first for optimal context and character development, as it introduces a different couple whose story is further explored in *Puck of the Irish*. It's a highly recommended read, consistent with the author's other works.

[Xochilt · Rating 4 out of 5]

K.D Miller’s “Puck of the Irish” was the first hockey romance and first work I’ve read by her and I am thoroughly satisfied. 4.5 stars from me. I found myself audibly laughing repeatedly. It was very easy for me to love the characters and I loved the character development in this book. I will absolutely be reading the other Viper Sin Bin novel, I need more about all the characters in this world! The spice and the chemistry between our two main characters is hot and heavy from the start and I am here for it. Overall, a quick read I would recommend to all hockey romance fans, you won’t be disappointed!

[Bobby L · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh 😍 😳 this book is amazing. Once you get started, you get stuck in reading the book! I loved it, especially with Nat and aj! Those two go through heck. You will just have to read this book for yourself! You will just fall in love with all the characters that are mentioned! K.D. Miller isn't playing hard at all, but she's playing with your emotions, though, especially with your heart ♥️. She wrote this book beautifully, the plot is amazing, spice is hot, the burn is no slow its probably medium to fast, characters that you will love, a book that you probably will want to read over and over again ❤️ 💙 🤤🥹🥰💋

[Jennifer DiTrapani · Rating 4 out of 5]

This dual POV with Nat and Rizzo and jumps right into it! This book has adorable banter, the characters felt authentic, the spice is well written. Puck of the Irish is a great choice if you are looking for an enjoyable, quick read, a beach or vacation (or holiday) read, and in my case a much needed palate cleanser. This was my first hockey romance book, and I think I’m addicted now!
Friends with benefits
Spice early and often
Family drama
Spicy texting
Notorious playboy MMC

Spice Rating: 3.5/5

[Lisa Grkman Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fans of Hockey Romances are going to love Puck the Irish.
Rating: 🍀🍀🍀 1/2 to 🍀🍀🍀🍀 stars

Such a cute story, Nat and Rizzo are an adorable couple, and the spice level was *chefs kiss*.
I love that it could be read alongside Puck the Holidays as a tandem read or alone.

Slight potential spoiler: My only complaint is that as an avid hockey fan, there's a scene during a game where Rizzo's reaction was actually not strong enough. In the words of NC Canes goalie Kochetkov, "No touch my guys". Those boys can go ballistic in a similar scenario.

[Ali Mickan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Natalie & AJ’s story. Maybe it’s because I’ve dealt with a rocky relationship with my own dad, but the progression of Nat’s relationship with her dad had me crying and seething. It was so relatable and well-written. I loved how AJ stood up for her and always had her back. The dynamic and banter between these two is CHEFS KISS.

I FLEW through this book. Just a few sittings and I was finished. I hope there will be an epilogue or their wedding scene in the next book, because I already miss these two characters and would love to see their Ireland wedding!!

[Momma T's Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️ I can't say no to a hockey romance. This one landed right where it was suppose to. With the banter between these two and the growth they share, I was presently surprised.

The MMC with his playboy style thinks he can hit it and split it. He thought wrong. The FMC thinks she can do a one and done. Again, she is wrong.

As the FMC grows in independence, the MMC just grows. Hes your typical playboy, hockey star, good looks, sleep around, don't need a relationship. By the end he's closer to what our dreams are made of.

I had a great time reading this one and just in time for the holiday.

[Kelsey Ray · Rating 4 out of 5]

Natalie works as an assistant to the social media director for a professional hockey team. She befriends one of the players-Anthony. Will she become lucky in love?

This was a good hockey romance. I think the reformed player trope is overdone, but I did appreciate how the MMC was not shamed about his choice of lifestyle. The drama was kept to a minimum for the most part…that was refreshing. We were able to just watch their relationship develop. I liked their chemistry and the spice was good. Overall, a solid friends to lovers novel.

[Kimberly Wheeler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Friends to Lovers to Friends to…?

All the feels in this book! This book takes place pretty much at the same time as Puck the Holidays! Rizzo and Nat are co-workers and friends that decide to go at it one night. One night and that’s it. Except neither of them want it to be… but they both have commitment issues and actually aren’t sure how to do a relationship! It’s full of ups, downs, family drama, and oh so much more! All while making big connections to St. Patrick’s Day and Rizzo’s Irish heritage!! KD Miller has done it again and I can’t wait for the next one!!

[Farrahlea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this as an ARC and I love being apart of this one!!!
Genuinely, this hockey romance has awakened a deep affection within me and I absolutely cherished it. I adored the captivating hockey smut. Not having read the first book, I was pleasantly surprised to find that I didn't feel lost. The smut was skillfully woven into the narrative and, personally, I wouldn't have objected to a bit more. What I truly treasured, though, was the story in its entirety. The "2 months after" idea was a brilliant touch and I appreciated its execution

[Riana Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Puck of the Irish is book 2 in the Vipers Sin Bin series.

This book follows playboy hockey player, Anthony Rizzo and the Viper's media assistant, Natalie Morgan.
These two build a friendship within their work relationship, during this time Natalie sees Rizzo for more than what he is known for.
This book has longing, angst, belonging, acceptance, trust and found family. The chemistry between these two, is so well written and strong, you can feel it.

Thank you K.D Miller for writing a book about two people who build their relationship based on friendship.