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Seattle Serpents #5
Top Shelf
I have two goals this season:
1. Prove to the Seattle Serpents I’m more than just the old guy.
2. Don’t fall for my captain’s stepsister.
In my defense, I had no clue who Vanessa was when we met. We were in a different city. How was I supposed to know she’s my teammate’s stepsister?
Now she’s in Seattle, still healing from her divorce, and apparently, she’s here to stay. That would be fine if I didn’t still think about our night together every waking hour. Thing is, I do think about it—constantly—and then when I find out she needs a place to live, I offer my spare room.
We’re roommates, and that’s it. Until it isn’t.
We’re just having fun, that’s all. Except nothing feels like just fun. It feels far too real and far too serious, and her stepbrother has no idea about us living together or that I’m slowly falling for her.
So much for focusing on the season…
TOP SHELF is a standalone hockey romance novel. There’s an age gap, a veteran player falling for his teammate’s stepsister, a woman recovering from a broken heart, sneaking around, a one-night stand, one bed, lots of steam, ridiculous group chats amongst teammates, and a happy ending.
1. Prove to the Seattle Serpents I’m more than just the old guy.
2. Don’t fall for my captain’s stepsister.
In my defense, I had no clue who Vanessa was when we met. We were in a different city. How was I supposed to know she’s my teammate’s stepsister?
Now she’s in Seattle, still healing from her divorce, and apparently, she’s here to stay. That would be fine if I didn’t still think about our night together every waking hour. Thing is, I do think about it—constantly—and then when I find out she needs a place to live, I offer my spare room.
We’re roommates, and that’s it. Until it isn’t.
We’re just having fun, that’s all. Except nothing feels like just fun. It feels far too real and far too serious, and her stepbrother has no idea about us living together or that I’m slowly falling for her.
So much for focusing on the season…
TOP SHELF is a standalone hockey romance novel. There’s an age gap, a veteran player falling for his teammate’s stepsister, a woman recovering from a broken heart, sneaking around, a one-night stand, one bed, lots of steam, ridiculous group chats amongst teammates, and a happy ending.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 2, 2025
600 people are currently reading
1671 people want to read
About the author
Teagan Hunter
50 books5,412 followersTEAGAN HUNTER writes steamy romantic comedies with lots of sarcasm and a side of heart. She loves pizza, hockey, and romance novels, though not in that order. When not writing, you can find her watching entirely too many hours of Supernatural, One Tree Hill, or New Girl. She’s mildly obsessed with Halloween and prefers cooler weather. She married her high school sweetheart, and they currently live in the PNW.
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FOLLOW HER AMAZON PAGE:
amazon.com/author/teaganhunter
FOLLOW HER FACEBOOK PAGE:
facebook.com/teaganhunterwrites
JOIN HER READER GROUP:
Teagan's Tidbits on Facebook
FOLLOW HER INSTAGRAM:
@teaganhunterwrites
SIGN UP FOR HER NEWSLETTER:
Teagan's Newsletter
READING ORDER:
Reading Order For Teagan's Books
________________
Teagan does not regularly check this account. Please visit her website to get in touch with her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 375 reviews
October 11, 2025
4 stars
Top Shelf is the fifth book in Teagan Hunter’s ‘Seattle Serpents’ series. These books are so fun. Especially those group texts. I had the best time reading this book. Locke and Vanessa were great together. I’m sad there is only one more book left, but I can’t wait to read grumpy Keller’s book.
Top Shelf is the fifth book in Teagan Hunter’s ‘Seattle Serpents’ series. These books are so fun. Especially those group texts. I had the best time reading this book. Locke and Vanessa were great together. I’m sad there is only one more book left, but I can’t wait to read grumpy Keller’s book.
Currently reading
October 2, 2025Available now!
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Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
Amazon: https://bit.ly/3Fjopyr
Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/IT3bH
Paperback: https://geni.us/TopShelfPB
Special Edition Paperback: https://geni.us/TSSpecialPB
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3FzHnAO
October 6, 2025
i am obsessed your honor.
teagan, i’ve been familiar with your game but holy hell girl look at youuuuu 🤭
vanessa had piqued my curiosity from the moment we met her in this series and she honestly never really left my mind after reed & audens book. so to say i was excited at the end of book 4 seeing that we were finally going to see more of her again and with LOCKE would be the understatement of the century.
vanessa is one of my favorite kinds of FMCs to read, shes complex and pretty unlikeable to most due to the fact shes been stuck in fight or flight mode for ages. with finally getting her POV we get to see very quickly what everyone thinks of her is quite the opposite of how she actually is.. she is soft and kind to the people that actually give her the chance to be and i thought it was really beautiful to see how much she grew through out this book and how locke was able to help in guiding her to the conclusion of “oh actually it is okay to be vulnerable and unguarded”.
everything about this book was phenomenal for me. the chemistry, the angst, the tropes, the characters old and new. like there wasnt a single thing i found myself disliking or wishing there was more or less of.
i truly cannot recommend this series enough — if you like hockey, found family, complete goofball mmcs, badass fmcs, simps, spice, banter, etc. you will LOVE these books so much.
teagan, i’ve been familiar with your game but holy hell girl look at youuuuu 🤭
vanessa had piqued my curiosity from the moment we met her in this series and she honestly never really left my mind after reed & audens book. so to say i was excited at the end of book 4 seeing that we were finally going to see more of her again and with LOCKE would be the understatement of the century.
vanessa is one of my favorite kinds of FMCs to read, shes complex and pretty unlikeable to most due to the fact shes been stuck in fight or flight mode for ages. with finally getting her POV we get to see very quickly what everyone thinks of her is quite the opposite of how she actually is.. she is soft and kind to the people that actually give her the chance to be and i thought it was really beautiful to see how much she grew through out this book and how locke was able to help in guiding her to the conclusion of “oh actually it is okay to be vulnerable and unguarded”.
everything about this book was phenomenal for me. the chemistry, the angst, the tropes, the characters old and new. like there wasnt a single thing i found myself disliking or wishing there was more or less of.
i truly cannot recommend this series enough — if you like hockey, found family, complete goofball mmcs, badass fmcs, simps, spice, banter, etc. you will LOVE these books so much.
Want to read
October 28, 2025Audiobook publication TBD
September 22, 2025
4.25🌟, 3 🌶️
Top Shelf is exactly that — top shelf hockey romance goodness.
After a one-night stand, Locke — the team’s veteran defenseman — is floored to find out his mystery girl, Vanessa, is his captain’s stepsister. When she ends up as his secret roommate, sparks fly and their chemistry is impossible to ignore.
Vanessa is a beautifully messy heroine still healing from her divorce, and Locke’s steady, charming presence makes her feel safe enough to fall again. Their romance is a mix of banter, tenderness, and heat — the kind of slow burn that keeps you grinning and kicking your feet.
With hilarious group chats, sneaky moments, and favorite tropes like brother’s teammate, roommates-to-lovers, and one bed, Top Shelf is playful, heartfelt, and seriously addictive — another win for the Seattle Serpents series.
~~~~
Many thanks to Teagan Hunter and Valentine PR for providing this Advanced Reader Copy. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. ✨
Top Shelf is exactly that — top shelf hockey romance goodness.
After a one-night stand, Locke — the team’s veteran defenseman — is floored to find out his mystery girl, Vanessa, is his captain’s stepsister. When she ends up as his secret roommate, sparks fly and their chemistry is impossible to ignore.
Vanessa is a beautifully messy heroine still healing from her divorce, and Locke’s steady, charming presence makes her feel safe enough to fall again. Their romance is a mix of banter, tenderness, and heat — the kind of slow burn that keeps you grinning and kicking your feet.
With hilarious group chats, sneaky moments, and favorite tropes like brother’s teammate, roommates-to-lovers, and one bed, Top Shelf is playful, heartfelt, and seriously addictive — another win for the Seattle Serpents series.
~~~~
Many thanks to Teagan Hunter and Valentine PR for providing this Advanced Reader Copy. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. ✨
October 3, 2025
Another solid read in the Seattle Serpents series. Locke is one of the older members on the team, and Vanessa is the “evil” stepsister of the captain. These two share a steamy night out of town without realizing who the other one is, which comes back to bite both of them in the behind when Vanessa ends up moving to be closer to her stepbrother after a nasty divorce.
Locke was a very supportive hero which was very cute to read. For Vanessa, she needed someone to give her a safe place (they end up roommates as well) after her trust was broken by her ex. I did feel their relationship was a lot more about the physical aspects, especially with the convenience of being roommates, but ultimately Locke being older and settled gave Vanessa room to trust again.
Also - I think the “forbidden” aspect was played up a bit too much. Considering the captain barely liked his stepsister (at least before they squashed their problems), he really had no right to get upset about Locke being with Vanessa once he found out.
What to Expect: hockey romance (NHL), age gap, “forbidden” (stepbrother’s friend), roommates
Locke was a very supportive hero which was very cute to read. For Vanessa, she needed someone to give her a safe place (they end up roommates as well) after her trust was broken by her ex. I did feel their relationship was a lot more about the physical aspects, especially with the convenience of being roommates, but ultimately Locke being older and settled gave Vanessa room to trust again.
Also - I think the “forbidden” aspect was played up a bit too much. Considering the captain barely liked his stepsister (at least before they squashed their problems), he really had no right to get upset about Locke being with Vanessa once he found out.
What to Expect: hockey romance (NHL), age gap, “forbidden” (stepbrother’s friend), roommates
October 16, 2025
The Seattle Serpents is one of my favorite hockey romance series ever. The teammate banter, the spice, the tension between the main characters all add up to create the perfect hockey romance.
Like always, Teagan swept me off my feet with Locke and made such a redeemable character ARC for Nessa! I loved every second of this one!
Like always, Teagan swept me off my feet with Locke and made such a redeemable character ARC for Nessa! I loved every second of this one!
October 6, 2025
Nessa and Locke had so much tension and it was delicious. All the group texts had me in stitches! I loved seeing all the other characters I know and love.
Nessa is coming back from a messy divorce. Trying to find herself and she has a one night stand with a stranger and doesn’t realize it’s her step brother’s teammate.
Locke knows family is off limits, but he can’t get over the night with Nessa, and he doesn’t want to. This is a story of two people who needed one another and found each other right when she needed someone in her corner. I thought that bringing the friend group in for this was fantastic too. I love this series so much, and I can’t wait for Keller’s book!
Nessa is coming back from a messy divorce. Trying to find herself and she has a one night stand with a stranger and doesn’t realize it’s her step brother’s teammate.
Locke knows family is off limits, but he can’t get over the night with Nessa, and he doesn’t want to. This is a story of two people who needed one another and found each other right when she needed someone in her corner. I thought that bringing the friend group in for this was fantastic too. I love this series so much, and I can’t wait for Keller’s book!
September 21, 2025
I love this series and group of guys so much😭 Lawson will forever be my fave and I just want to protect him at all costs🥹
Locke and Vanessa have such a sweet relationship, they’re just happy in each others company and there’s no drama between them both.
The way he turns his room into an art room so that she had somewhere quiet to draw and get back into what she loves🥹 also takes her on a date to an art museum!!!
I just love how happy they are together honestly
Obsessed with the fact he has pet fish and talks to them😂
One of the best things about this book was when Hutch found out about their relationship. Yes he was annoyed for a moment but then he actually sat down and listened to what Locke had to say then went and found Vanessa to make sure she knew he did want her in his life!
It was so nice for a change to see a character find out that their friend was dating their sibling and just hear them out instead of not even giving them a chance to explain and ignore them for a few days.
I’ve loved seeing how far Hutch has come from his book until now
I didnt want this book to end and could have kept reading about these two!
I love their relationship and the fact there was always communication!! Locke made sure Vanessa was always reassured especially after how she was treated by her ex.
I love them both so much!!
Can’t wait for Keller’s book but also sad that will be the end of the series
Thank you Teagan for the ARC🫶🏻
Locke and Vanessa have such a sweet relationship, they’re just happy in each others company and there’s no drama between them both.
The way he turns his room into an art room so that she had somewhere quiet to draw and get back into what she loves🥹 also takes her on a date to an art museum!!!
I just love how happy they are together honestly
Obsessed with the fact he has pet fish and talks to them😂
One of the best things about this book was when Hutch found out about their relationship. Yes he was annoyed for a moment but then he actually sat down and listened to what Locke had to say then went and found Vanessa to make sure she knew he did want her in his life!
It was so nice for a change to see a character find out that their friend was dating their sibling and just hear them out instead of not even giving them a chance to explain and ignore them for a few days.
I’ve loved seeing how far Hutch has come from his book until now
I didnt want this book to end and could have kept reading about these two!
I love their relationship and the fact there was always communication!! Locke made sure Vanessa was always reassured especially after how she was treated by her ex.
I love them both so much!!
Can’t wait for Keller’s book but also sad that will be the end of the series
Thank you Teagan for the ARC🫶🏻
October 3, 2025
The Single Serpents have all slowly fallen in love one by one. Except for Locke. (and Keller, but man, is that going to be a story!). Considered the "old guy" on the team, he's really put hockey first. His parents are rock solid, and he wants that, too. Except he knows the separations hockey brings on.
Except for a few months ago, while in New York, he meets Vanessa. There's major chemistry between them. She's fresh off of a divorce, and he was a stand-up guy. No way did he expect to see her again. When she shows up unexpectedly to stay with her stepbrother. His team mate and captain.
Vanessa has been living in a nightmare. Her divorce has left her kinda frazzled. The perfect life she imagined for herself? Gone. (But man, did she get some sweet payback.) So when she shows up at her stepbrothers, the one she definitely isn't close to, it kinda feels like a last resort at another chance. Or really a surprising new beginning.
Locke really steps in when she has no one thats really backing her up. He's such a sweetheart for that. It brings them into a situation where they depend on each other.
Of course, our other serpents are throughout the book. Saying crazy things in the group chat and proving what a family they are. Its always so sweet to see them moving in new directions.
And one book left?! I'm sad but also pretty happy. Teagan leaves a BOMBSHELL at the end, setting up the last book.
Except for a few months ago, while in New York, he meets Vanessa. There's major chemistry between them. She's fresh off of a divorce, and he was a stand-up guy. No way did he expect to see her again. When she shows up unexpectedly to stay with her stepbrother. His team mate and captain.
Vanessa has been living in a nightmare. Her divorce has left her kinda frazzled. The perfect life she imagined for herself? Gone. (But man, did she get some sweet payback.) So when she shows up at her stepbrothers, the one she definitely isn't close to, it kinda feels like a last resort at another chance. Or really a surprising new beginning.
Locke really steps in when she has no one thats really backing her up. He's such a sweetheart for that. It brings them into a situation where they depend on each other.
Of course, our other serpents are throughout the book. Saying crazy things in the group chat and proving what a family they are. Its always so sweet to see them moving in new directions.
And one book left?! I'm sad but also pretty happy. Teagan leaves a BOMBSHELL at the end, setting up the last book.
September 19, 2025
Thank you to VPR for this ARC!
I just adore the Seattle Serpents and was soooo excited to read Locke’s story! Locke is an older member of the serpent singles but had an amazing night with a mystery girl in NY after her divorce. When he finds out it’s his teammate’s step sister months after their tryst, he’s not sure what to think.
Vanessa wants to start over 5 months after her divorce. When she shows up to stay with her stepbrother and his fiancé, he’s not happy. When she sees Locke again, she’s afraid to fall in love. He offers her to move in with him, but they don’t tell Nessa’s step brother.
As they spend time together as roommates, they can’t avoid their attraction. Nessa loves Locke’s fish and has to watch his games. I thought they were so precious together. Although they hide their relationship for most of their story, they aren’t ashamed. Locke wants to reassure Nessa that he’s not like her ex. There’s no third act break up or miscommunication to stand in their way!
If you enjoy brother’s teammate, roommates, and hockey romance then this one is for you!🏒🐟🎨
I just adore the Seattle Serpents and was soooo excited to read Locke’s story! Locke is an older member of the serpent singles but had an amazing night with a mystery girl in NY after her divorce. When he finds out it’s his teammate’s step sister months after their tryst, he’s not sure what to think.
Vanessa wants to start over 5 months after her divorce. When she shows up to stay with her stepbrother and his fiancé, he’s not happy. When she sees Locke again, she’s afraid to fall in love. He offers her to move in with him, but they don’t tell Nessa’s step brother.
As they spend time together as roommates, they can’t avoid their attraction. Nessa loves Locke’s fish and has to watch his games. I thought they were so precious together. Although they hide their relationship for most of their story, they aren’t ashamed. Locke wants to reassure Nessa that he’s not like her ex. There’s no third act break up or miscommunication to stand in their way!
If you enjoy brother’s teammate, roommates, and hockey romance then this one is for you!🏒🐟🎨
September 26, 2025
4.5 stars
Top Shelf is Locke’s story and its a wonderful read!
He’s the oldest member of the Seattle Serpents professional hockey team!
Having met Nessa one night in New York, he is speechless when he sees her at his teammates house!
Nessa turns out to be Vanessa, Hutch’s stepsister! What a small world and oopsy….. can anyone say off limits?? Haha!
But its the journey ahead that starts their friendship that also leads to other things. Needless to say Locke is playing the best he has ever played and Nessa needs to work out who she is after her divorce. Hes charming & caring, shes messy and sassy! Can these two work out? Only way to find out is to read it yourself!
I enjoyed their story immensely! It’s a heartfelt read with some tears thrown in!
It also felt great being amongst the Seattle serpents again especially with their entertaining text messages!!
Top Shelf is Locke’s story and its a wonderful read!
He’s the oldest member of the Seattle Serpents professional hockey team!
Having met Nessa one night in New York, he is speechless when he sees her at his teammates house!
Nessa turns out to be Vanessa, Hutch’s stepsister! What a small world and oopsy….. can anyone say off limits?? Haha!
But its the journey ahead that starts their friendship that also leads to other things. Needless to say Locke is playing the best he has ever played and Nessa needs to work out who she is after her divorce. Hes charming & caring, shes messy and sassy! Can these two work out? Only way to find out is to read it yourself!
I enjoyed their story immensely! It’s a heartfelt read with some tears thrown in!
It also felt great being amongst the Seattle serpents again especially with their entertaining text messages!!
October 6, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️/5
📚 Book 5 in the Interconnected Standalone Series "Seattle Serpents"
🗣️ Dual POV
🏒 Hockey Romance
🖤 M/F
Truly this book was named extremely well. Top shelf while its a hockey term, also directly relates to how good this book was. Finally Locke has his time on the ice and has a one night stand with a woman who turns out to be his captin's step sister...
Vanessa is blowing off steam, celebrating and healing from her divorce when she meets Locke and the sparks fly!
Theres a lot of sneaking around, stolen moments, secret roommates, but also healing and spice. I mean, what more could you want in a book?
🌶️🌶️/5
📚 Book 5 in the Interconnected Standalone Series "Seattle Serpents"
🗣️ Dual POV
🏒 Hockey Romance
🖤 M/F
Truly this book was named extremely well. Top shelf while its a hockey term, also directly relates to how good this book was. Finally Locke has his time on the ice and has a one night stand with a woman who turns out to be his captin's step sister...
Vanessa is blowing off steam, celebrating and healing from her divorce when she meets Locke and the sparks fly!
Theres a lot of sneaking around, stolen moments, secret roommates, but also healing and spice. I mean, what more could you want in a book?
October 2, 2025
Thank you VPR for the e-arc.
🏒 Age Gap
🏒 Brothers (best) friend
🏒 Teammates (step) sister
🏒 Hockey Romance
🏒 ONS-Roommates-lovers
🏒 Forced Proximity
🏒 Secret Hookups
Locke is the oldest and the second last single in their Squad. In a moment of loneliness Locke has a one night stand with a woman he met in the bar of the hotel, who’s celebrating her divorce. After an unforgettable night he wakes up without her, no name, no number so with no way to contact her.
Some months later when the squad is at Hutch and Auden their house. Locke locks eyes with the woman he couldn’t forget, who happens to be Hutch his ‘evil’ step sister.
This book is a page turner. The anticipation and chemistry between these characters is so well written, you can feel it yourself. And I’m sooo glad that these groupchats continue in every book. That is one of the things I look forward to in these series. Lawson is being Lawson and I love it.
If you read the other Seattle Serpent books this is a MUST read!
🏒 Age Gap
🏒 Brothers (best) friend
🏒 Teammates (step) sister
🏒 Hockey Romance
🏒 ONS-Roommates-lovers
🏒 Forced Proximity
🏒 Secret Hookups
Locke is the oldest and the second last single in their Squad. In a moment of loneliness Locke has a one night stand with a woman he met in the bar of the hotel, who’s celebrating her divorce. After an unforgettable night he wakes up without her, no name, no number so with no way to contact her.
Some months later when the squad is at Hutch and Auden their house. Locke locks eyes with the woman he couldn’t forget, who happens to be Hutch his ‘evil’ step sister.
This book is a page turner. The anticipation and chemistry between these characters is so well written, you can feel it yourself. And I’m sooo glad that these groupchats continue in every book. That is one of the things I look forward to in these series. Lawson is being Lawson and I love it.
If you read the other Seattle Serpent books this is a MUST read!
October 2, 2025
Teagan is back and is doing what she does best with cute hockey reads 😊
We have Locke, the veteran hockey player who has a one night stand and is gutted when she's gone before he wakes
Fast forward 5/6 months and his teammates sister turns up needing somewhere to say...
Really enjoyed their story, enjoyed the humour - especially the group chats! And it has steam!
We have Locke, the veteran hockey player who has a one night stand and is gutted when she's gone before he wakes
Fast forward 5/6 months and his teammates sister turns up needing somewhere to say...
Really enjoyed their story, enjoyed the humour - especially the group chats! And it has steam!
September 26, 2025
Loving this series and I think I love Locke even more now,.
Locke and Nessa story was a delight to read there first met in New York, the chemistry was of the chart, nessa struggling with having he divorce come through she was at the bat where Locke was he over heard a guy get to friendly and sorted him out, there chatted and things went from 0 to 100 in the intimate side only to to find his bed empty the next morning.
Fast forward five months Locke is at Hutches apartment and in walks the evil step sister only it to be the girl that Locke met in New York 5 months earlier this is where the story gets interesting.
Both characters were easy to connect with there journey Nessa goes on it melted my heart but god Locke he was there for her wish all men could be like him
As ever in this series the the team text chat had me chuckling away to myself
If you love a an age gap, brothers best friend hockey romance then this is your book
For me it 4 1/2 stars
Locke and Nessa story was a delight to read there first met in New York, the chemistry was of the chart, nessa struggling with having he divorce come through she was at the bat where Locke was he over heard a guy get to friendly and sorted him out, there chatted and things went from 0 to 100 in the intimate side only to to find his bed empty the next morning.
Fast forward five months Locke is at Hutches apartment and in walks the evil step sister only it to be the girl that Locke met in New York 5 months earlier this is where the story gets interesting.
Both characters were easy to connect with there journey Nessa goes on it melted my heart but god Locke he was there for her wish all men could be like him
As ever in this series the the team text chat had me chuckling away to myself
If you love a an age gap, brothers best friend hockey romance then this is your book
For me it 4 1/2 stars
October 7, 2025
Such a good read. I love this series so much. I was obsessed with this book and could not put it down.
September 21, 2025
Top Shelf is a siblings best friend, forced proximity, HOCKEY Romcom! (There is an age gap but it’s a reasonable one with both parties having a fully developed pre-frontal cortex so it doesn’t feel icky)
As much as I love the serpents (and Lawson specifically because he’s a clown) this series really shines in its MFCs. For example, Auden is written like an author would typically write a man- ambitious, focused, etc.
In Top Shelf we have Nessa who is complicated. We meet her briefly before this book and she’s known as the “evil stepsister” My girl has been through it and she’s lashing out because of it. {Think Nesta} She grew up feeling loss, she committed her adult life to someone only to be hurt in the worst way- it’s understandable that she’s removed and angry.
At the same time, we’re finally getting Lockes story- he’s entering a phase of his career/life where he’s able to reevaluate and open up new paths.
The path that brings he and Nessa together begins with him seeing her as an individual and not through the eyes of being the “evil stepsister” so she gets a fighting chance.
Following them while he makes it safe for her to let her guard down is beautiful. This story feels more real in the sense that she isn’t a stereotypical FMC but a raw human being and he loves her as a whole, in spite of it all. “Because I think knowing you could be a great adventure, love.”
I have read the entire series for the Carolina Comets, and now Seattle Serpents and I have loved both for a variety of reasons but the BANTER always gets me. The GROUP CHAT will have me coming back always.
Anyway-
Lawless Lawson is the love of my life. I am reminded every single time I read a story in this series.
ALSO THAT LAST LINE OF THE EPILOGUE 😳
Thank you Valentine PR and Teagan Hunter for the ARC
Pre-order your copy today!
Amazon: https://bit.ly/3Fjopyr
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3FzHnAO
#teaganhunter #seattleserpents #SportsRomance #ContemporaryRomance #RomanticComedy #Hockey #FoundFamily #ForcedProximity #Athlete #AgeGap #OppositesAttract #SecretHookups #SiblingsBestFriend
As much as I love the serpents (and Lawson specifically because he’s a clown) this series really shines in its MFCs. For example, Auden is written like an author would typically write a man- ambitious, focused, etc.
In Top Shelf we have Nessa who is complicated. We meet her briefly before this book and she’s known as the “evil stepsister” My girl has been through it and she’s lashing out because of it. {Think Nesta} She grew up feeling loss, she committed her adult life to someone only to be hurt in the worst way- it’s understandable that she’s removed and angry.
At the same time, we’re finally getting Lockes story- he’s entering a phase of his career/life where he’s able to reevaluate and open up new paths.
The path that brings he and Nessa together begins with him seeing her as an individual and not through the eyes of being the “evil stepsister” so she gets a fighting chance.
Following them while he makes it safe for her to let her guard down is beautiful. This story feels more real in the sense that she isn’t a stereotypical FMC but a raw human being and he loves her as a whole, in spite of it all. “Because I think knowing you could be a great adventure, love.”
I have read the entire series for the Carolina Comets, and now Seattle Serpents and I have loved both for a variety of reasons but the BANTER always gets me. The GROUP CHAT will have me coming back always.
Anyway-
Lawless Lawson is the love of my life. I am reminded every single time I read a story in this series.
ALSO THAT LAST LINE OF THE EPILOGUE 😳
Thank you Valentine PR and Teagan Hunter for the ARC
Pre-order your copy today!
Amazon: https://bit.ly/3Fjopyr
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3FzHnAO
#teaganhunter #seattleserpents #SportsRomance #ContemporaryRomance #RomanticComedy #Hockey #FoundFamily #ForcedProximity #Athlete #AgeGap #OppositesAttract #SecretHookups #SiblingsBestFriend
October 6, 2025
#Review: *Top Shelf* - Teagan Hunter - ARC [18+]
4.9/5✨
3.5/5🌶️
I fell in love with this series and I had to take my chance with applying for an ARC🥰. I was super elated when I got accepted for it and, as always, I must thank Teagan and Valentine Pr for the opportunity.🤗
Gavin "Locke" Whitlocke and Vanessa Meyers had a very first encounter in a New York bar. They clicked even from the start and they found solace in each other's arms. Vanessa was suffering after a hurtful divorce and Locke was really feeling alone. But they never thought that after that one night stand they will see each other again. And, obviously, that happened and complicated their lives and messed up with their feelings.
Of course, that I had such a great time reading this book!! Because of the presence of the hockey team, this story was super funny. On the other side, we had so much tension and desire between Locke and Nessa, who were still thinking about that perfect night they had together and not only because of that steamy night they shared, but also because of how well they understood each other, even though they were simply strangers. But back then they didn't know that they had a mutual connection throughout Locke's teammate, Hutch. That made the situation even more complicated and that's something I always love in a story, because it creates that secrecy and forbidden feeling.
Again, a super book written by Teagan, who perfectly captured that amazing connection between our main characters, delighting us with so many beautiful, emotional and hot moments. Everything blended so well, creating a story which kept me immersed into it and loved every second of it.
✨Tropes
#FoundFamily
#AgeGap
#OppositesAttract
#SecretHookups
#SiblingsBestFriend
#ForcedProximity
#Athlete
#SportsRomance
#Hockey
4.9/5✨
3.5/5🌶️
I fell in love with this series and I had to take my chance with applying for an ARC🥰. I was super elated when I got accepted for it and, as always, I must thank Teagan and Valentine Pr for the opportunity.🤗
Gavin "Locke" Whitlocke and Vanessa Meyers had a very first encounter in a New York bar. They clicked even from the start and they found solace in each other's arms. Vanessa was suffering after a hurtful divorce and Locke was really feeling alone. But they never thought that after that one night stand they will see each other again. And, obviously, that happened and complicated their lives and messed up with their feelings.
Of course, that I had such a great time reading this book!! Because of the presence of the hockey team, this story was super funny. On the other side, we had so much tension and desire between Locke and Nessa, who were still thinking about that perfect night they had together and not only because of that steamy night they shared, but also because of how well they understood each other, even though they were simply strangers. But back then they didn't know that they had a mutual connection throughout Locke's teammate, Hutch. That made the situation even more complicated and that's something I always love in a story, because it creates that secrecy and forbidden feeling.
Again, a super book written by Teagan, who perfectly captured that amazing connection between our main characters, delighting us with so many beautiful, emotional and hot moments. Everything blended so well, creating a story which kept me immersed into it and loved every second of it.
✨Tropes
#FoundFamily
#AgeGap
#OppositesAttract
#SecretHookups
#SiblingsBestFriend
#ForcedProximity
#Athlete
#SportsRomance
#Hockey
October 10, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
What I enjoyed:
Group text chats, these are a staple and something of comfort to me when reading a Teagan Hunter book.
The hockey, Teagan’s love of the sport shines in every single book she writes and it’s honestly one of my favorite things.
Locke & Nessa have some really sweet moments and you can see it so clearly that Locke is locked in on her.
Locke’s pet fish, I freaking loved it!
What didn’t work for me
Ultimately, it just felt like there was SO much potential here and then not a lot happened. I felt like I could have skipped the middle section of the book and not missed out on anything important. Also the forbidden trope I don’t think fit this book at all. Sure she’s the teammates sister, but Hutch refers to her as his evil stepsister from the start and admits they don’t really have a relationship at all. So then when the big reveal comes, it felt a little disingenuous from Hutch to get worked up and acting like a protective brother. Vanessa, she had this setup for some personal growth but it just never really made it there. Her insecurities followed her the entire book when Locke never once did anything to warrant them.
While this one didn’t work for me, I am absolutely feral for Keller’s story!! That ending is setting us up for an explosive next book.
What I enjoyed:
Group text chats, these are a staple and something of comfort to me when reading a Teagan Hunter book.
The hockey, Teagan’s love of the sport shines in every single book she writes and it’s honestly one of my favorite things.
Locke & Nessa have some really sweet moments and you can see it so clearly that Locke is locked in on her.
Locke’s pet fish, I freaking loved it!
What didn’t work for me
Ultimately, it just felt like there was SO much potential here and then not a lot happened. I felt like I could have skipped the middle section of the book and not missed out on anything important. Also the forbidden trope I don’t think fit this book at all. Sure she’s the teammates sister, but Hutch refers to her as his evil stepsister from the start and admits they don’t really have a relationship at all. So then when the big reveal comes, it felt a little disingenuous from Hutch to get worked up and acting like a protective brother. Vanessa, she had this setup for some personal growth but it just never really made it there. Her insecurities followed her the entire book when Locke never once did anything to warrant them.
While this one didn’t work for me, I am absolutely feral for Keller’s story!! That ending is setting us up for an explosive next book.
September 27, 2025
Back to my roots with a hockey romance. I love this series and think it definitely deserves more hype!
This once follows Locke, the Veteran defenceman and Vanessa who is their Captain's step-sister. Locke is absolutely floored to discover that his ONS from 6 months prior and his Captain's sister are in the same. Locke and Vanessa become secret roommates (because of course Locke is HUNG UP on her and MUST offer her a place to stay heheh), sparks fly between them and honestly, the chemistry is so hard to ignore.
I loved these two so much! They were actually such a great match, bringing out the best in each other. Vanessa is still healing from her divorce and Locke provides her with that safe, consistent and peaceful place to find herself, and be open to fall in love again.
Teagan's spice always catches me off guard and I absolutely ate up the scenes between these two. The forbidden-ness and the sneaking around between them had me kicking my wee feeties. They were so hot!
Add to your tbr if you like:
- hockey
- teammate’s step-sister
- roommates to lovers
- forced proximity
- age gap
- sneaking around / forbidden relationship
Another great addition to the Sepeants series. Thank you to Teagan Hunter and Valentine PR for the arc!
This once follows Locke, the Veteran defenceman and Vanessa who is their Captain's step-sister. Locke is absolutely floored to discover that his ONS from 6 months prior and his Captain's sister are in the same. Locke and Vanessa become secret roommates (because of course Locke is HUNG UP on her and MUST offer her a place to stay heheh), sparks fly between them and honestly, the chemistry is so hard to ignore.
I loved these two so much! They were actually such a great match, bringing out the best in each other. Vanessa is still healing from her divorce and Locke provides her with that safe, consistent and peaceful place to find herself, and be open to fall in love again.
Teagan's spice always catches me off guard and I absolutely ate up the scenes between these two. The forbidden-ness and the sneaking around between them had me kicking my wee feeties. They were so hot!
Add to your tbr if you like:
- hockey
- teammate’s step-sister
- roommates to lovers
- forced proximity
- age gap
- sneaking around / forbidden relationship
Another great addition to the Sepeants series. Thank you to Teagan Hunter and Valentine PR for the arc!
October 4, 2025
Back for more Serpents Hockey, and like the game, this book is moving at a fast pace.
Locke is the oldest player on the team, and we get his story in Top Shelf. Hockey has always been his number one, but he is getting older and feels something is missing in his life.
Vanessa has returned to Seattle, ready to redefine herself after a messy divorce. She crosses paths with Locke; they have a history. They spent a fantastic night together months ago. But the plot thickens, she is his Captain’s stepsister! Can she trust her heart? Can Locke move his career down a peg? With sizzling chemistry, these two need to give this a chance.
As usual the banter is great, Serpents group text is over the top. This team is so easy to love, and I am here for each book. Bring on the next.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Locke is the oldest player on the team, and we get his story in Top Shelf. Hockey has always been his number one, but he is getting older and feels something is missing in his life.
Vanessa has returned to Seattle, ready to redefine herself after a messy divorce. She crosses paths with Locke; they have a history. They spent a fantastic night together months ago. But the plot thickens, she is his Captain’s stepsister! Can she trust her heart? Can Locke move his career down a peg? With sizzling chemistry, these two need to give this a chance.
As usual the banter is great, Serpents group text is over the top. This team is so easy to love, and I am here for each book. Bring on the next.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
September 27, 2025
Oh my gosh, this book was amazing. Locke, the older, serious hockey player, and Nessa, fresh from a divorce, had such sparks I could feel them from the page. I loved how Locke was grumpy but soft when it mattered, and Nessa was strong yet vulnerable in all the right ways. Their attraction was constant, and funny with lots of banter and teasing. The Seattle Serpents group chat moments made me laugh out loud and added so much heart. Locke and Nessa’s chemistry was off the charts, and the story never dragged. I read it so fast, I couldn’t put it down, and I already want the next book. Thank you so much to the author and Valentine PR for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving an honest review.
October 9, 2025
I adore Teagan Hunter’s hockey heroes, and this one was no different. While the most annoying ones are often my favorites, in this one we get the “old guy”, Locke. I mean, old is a relative term, because I think he’s like 38 maybe? But in the sports world, that is old. And normally I don’t care for age gap romance, but this one was okay because it didn’t really make it so much about that in a way that would bother me.
Locke and Nessa were a good couple, they fit well together. I don’t remember Nessa so much from when we met her as an evil stepsister, so I might need to go back and reread that story. But we find out why she behaved the way she did, and from her POV it made sense. I liked the way the author had her brother react both with her and even when he found out about her and Locke. It was realistic, not over the top for drama’s sake. Of course there was the keeping something secret from him which I wish they’d told him sooner, but again, her brother reacted in a way that worked for me. Oh yeah, there was one part where Nessa was thinking maybe Locke was hiding something from her, definitely fair for her after how her ex-husband had cheated on her. The way it was handled though was so real, and again, I really liked the way the author wrote it.
My favorite parts of so many of this author’s books are the texting conversations. Seattle Serpents Singles Chat group cracked me up so much. I am excited for the final book in the series to come out as well.
Oh, and they talked about a “Seattle style” hot dog. I didn’t know there was one of those. It actually sounded good till it got to the jalapenos part, lol. And I like the special edition cover so much better on this one because the guy on the cover of the original makes me think of The Fonz on that old sit-com Happy Days.
Locke and Nessa were a good couple, they fit well together. I don’t remember Nessa so much from when we met her as an evil stepsister, so I might need to go back and reread that story. But we find out why she behaved the way she did, and from her POV it made sense. I liked the way the author had her brother react both with her and even when he found out about her and Locke. It was realistic, not over the top for drama’s sake. Of course there was the keeping something secret from him which I wish they’d told him sooner, but again, her brother reacted in a way that worked for me. Oh yeah, there was one part where Nessa was thinking maybe Locke was hiding something from her, definitely fair for her after how her ex-husband had cheated on her. The way it was handled though was so real, and again, I really liked the way the author wrote it.
My favorite parts of so many of this author’s books are the texting conversations. Seattle Serpents Singles Chat group cracked me up so much. I am excited for the final book in the series to come out as well.
Oh, and they talked about a “Seattle style” hot dog. I didn’t know there was one of those. It actually sounded good till it got to the jalapenos part, lol. And I like the special edition cover so much better on this one because the guy on the cover of the original makes me think of The Fonz on that old sit-com Happy Days.
October 3, 2025
Our two main characters know each other from a past one night stand.
Nessa goes through a divorce from a dirty cheater and decides to have a night of fun. Cole can’t get her off of his mind after that one night.
Nessa needs to move for a fresh start. When she arrives at her stepbrothers home asking for help, lo and behold, there is Cole, her hockey brothers teammate.
Cole is immediately obsessed and wants to talk to Nessa. He is really strategic about it though since you are not supposed to mess with a players sibling.
I like that Nessa is hesitant at first because she is trying to start new and not jump into anything.
When both decide to go for it, they go hard. They have a pull towards each other that they can’t stop. They think they are doing a good job at keeping their secret, but there are plenty of friends around them that can see what is going on.
Nessa goes through a divorce from a dirty cheater and decides to have a night of fun. Cole can’t get her off of his mind after that one night.
Nessa needs to move for a fresh start. When she arrives at her stepbrothers home asking for help, lo and behold, there is Cole, her hockey brothers teammate.
Cole is immediately obsessed and wants to talk to Nessa. He is really strategic about it though since you are not supposed to mess with a players sibling.
I like that Nessa is hesitant at first because she is trying to start new and not jump into anything.
When both decide to go for it, they go hard. They have a pull towards each other that they can’t stop. They think they are doing a good job at keeping their secret, but there are plenty of friends around them that can see what is going on.
October 12, 2025
Valentine PR and Teagan, thank you A MILLION for letting me arc read for you!
As an ice hockey romance obsessed book girlie, who LOVED the Carolina Comets series (my favorite series hands down!), I am so happy to now be reading the Seattle serpents series as well. It’s the story of Gavin and Nessa, a ‘hockey captain’s (step)sister’ romance— I can’t say anything but this: it was amazing. I love seeing ‘text messages’ in a book, the banter is just top notch! Teagan has a great sense of humor that is definitely palpable on the pages. I hope she keeps writing ice hockey books for a looooong time 🥹
As an ice hockey romance obsessed book girlie, who LOVED the Carolina Comets series (my favorite series hands down!), I am so happy to now be reading the Seattle serpents series as well. It’s the story of Gavin and Nessa, a ‘hockey captain’s (step)sister’ romance— I can’t say anything but this: it was amazing. I love seeing ‘text messages’ in a book, the banter is just top notch! Teagan has a great sense of humor that is definitely palpable on the pages. I hope she keeps writing ice hockey books for a looooong time 🥹
October 17, 2025
3.5
as usual with teagan hunter’s books, i had such a fun time reading this one. nessa and gavin were precious, i love their dynamic and gavin has to be one of the sweetest mmc’s teagan has even written. obviously i can’t not mention the interactions between the players; how i live for their text messages and lawson making all of them go crazy 🤭
keller’s book couldn’t come soon enough btw!!!!! i need it like YESTERDAY
as usual with teagan hunter’s books, i had such a fun time reading this one. nessa and gavin were precious, i love their dynamic and gavin has to be one of the sweetest mmc’s teagan has even written. obviously i can’t not mention the interactions between the players; how i live for their text messages and lawson making all of them go crazy 🤭
keller’s book couldn’t come soon enough btw!!!!! i need it like YESTERDAY
October 2, 2025
I do love a one-night stand that leads to more - unexpectedly.
I enjoyed watching Locke and Vanessa's relationship grow and seeing how they are with one another, it brought a smile to my face.
Teagan wrote a very swoony, funny sports romance and it's the perfect fit for these two.
That's all I am saying - go read it!
I enjoyed watching Locke and Vanessa's relationship grow and seeing how they are with one another, it brought a smile to my face.
Teagan wrote a very swoony, funny sports romance and it's the perfect fit for these two.
That's all I am saying - go read it!
October 8, 2025
I have been waiting for this story and it did not disappoint! Locke and Vanessa were perfect. Both characters made me mad at times in previous books (looking at you, Locke) but I adored their story. Vanessa was not who I expected and she was perfect for Locke. I loved the cameos from his teammates and their SOs. I love this world and this book is one of my favorites in it.
October 5, 2025
I really enjoyed this book, the text conversations were amazing, as always. I also liked how when Hutch found out about his friend/teammate being involved with his sister he got mad but they also had a conversation and he didn't completely freak out on both of them. Or give them the silent treatment or bring a fight out onto the ice. Loved that there was no 3rd act break-up
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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