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New York Thunder #4
Happy Ever After
A spicy, coach's daughter hockey romcom.
Two words describe Happy Slater; unserious and slutty. The second line defenseman, son of a former supermodel and a rockstar, is known for a good time and not a lot else. But sometimes appearances can be deceiving, and it’s often the ones we least expect that are hiding the biggest secrets.
Hannah Draper, daughter of New York Thunder head coach, Lance Draper, has officially had it with men. Forced to wait in the rain for an Uber that never shows, that is driven by—yep—a man, it only proves her point that all men suck.
During her time of need, the last person Hannah wants to accept help from is Happy Slater, but desperate times often lead to terrible mistakes. After an unexpected night of hate-filled passion, they part ways only to find themselves brought back together again, and again, and again.
Just when Hannah thinks she’s got Happy figured out, he opens up his heart and shares his deepest secrets with her. This new side to the once insufferable member of her dad’s hockey team has her cold heart thawing and her resolve to cancel all men starts to slip. But as the unlikely pair try to navigate their foreign feelings together, ghosts from their past start to surface, threatening everything.
With more than just their hearts on the line, will they be strong enough to hold on to their Happy Every After?
Two words describe Happy Slater; unserious and slutty. The second line defenseman, son of a former supermodel and a rockstar, is known for a good time and not a lot else. But sometimes appearances can be deceiving, and it’s often the ones we least expect that are hiding the biggest secrets.
Hannah Draper, daughter of New York Thunder head coach, Lance Draper, has officially had it with men. Forced to wait in the rain for an Uber that never shows, that is driven by—yep—a man, it only proves her point that all men suck.
During her time of need, the last person Hannah wants to accept help from is Happy Slater, but desperate times often lead to terrible mistakes. After an unexpected night of hate-filled passion, they part ways only to find themselves brought back together again, and again, and again.
Just when Hannah thinks she’s got Happy figured out, he opens up his heart and shares his deepest secrets with her. This new side to the once insufferable member of her dad’s hockey team has her cold heart thawing and her resolve to cancel all men starts to slip. But as the unlikely pair try to navigate their foreign feelings together, ghosts from their past start to surface, threatening everything.
With more than just their hearts on the line, will they be strong enough to hold on to their Happy Every After?
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 14, 2026
80 people are currently reading
781 people want to read
About the author
Shann McPherson
11 books191 followersShann McPherson has been writing contemporary romance fiction for as long as she can remember, and she has no plans on stopping any time soon. Her favourite authors are those who write stories that provide an escape from the harsh reality of today's world; Lucy Score, Tessa Bailey, Anna Todd, Colleen Hoover and the likes.
Living in sunny Queensland, Australia, when she isn't working her 9-5, or plotting her next story, Shann enjoys making memories with her husband and boisterous son, drinking wine and the occasional beer, and singing completely off-key to Taylor Swift.
Shann loves connecting with readers all over the world. You can find her on Instagram, Threads and TikTok.
"It's a truth universally acknowledged that inside every woman is an inner-psycho just waiting to be unleashed." - Alice 'Murph' Murphy, Where We Belong.
Living in sunny Queensland, Australia, when she isn't working her 9-5, or plotting her next story, Shann enjoys making memories with her husband and boisterous son, drinking wine and the occasional beer, and singing completely off-key to Taylor Swift.
Shann loves connecting with readers all over the world. You can find her on Instagram, Threads and TikTok.
"It's a truth universally acknowledged that inside every woman is an inner-psycho just waiting to be unleashed." - Alice 'Murph' Murphy, Where We Belong.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 199 reviews
January 16, 2026
5🌟, 3🌶️
This book was everything I didn't know I needed.
I went in expecting a fun, spicy hockey romcom and ended up with something that carried real heart and emotional weight.
Happy and Hannah's connection felt chaotic, genuine, and earned, starting off messy and banter-filled before slowly growing into something deeper. Happy's carefree, playboy image hides far more than you expect, and watching those layers come down was incredibly satisfying. Hannah, guarded, sharp, and fed up with men, felt painfully real and easy to root for.
The chemistry between them was instant and intense, with banter that had me laughing out loud and tension that never let up. The spice hits early and often, but it never overshadows the emotional connection, which is where this story truly shines. The secrets, the vulnerability, the found-family energy, and the pressure surrounding Hannah's life added depth without unnecessary drama. I especially loved that the conflict stayed grounded and realistic instead of relying on a forced third-act breakup.
Funny, spicy, emotional, and surprisingly tender, this book had me fully invested from start to finish. I cared deeply about these characters, their messiness, and the way they showed up for each other when things got hard.
I laughed, swooned, stressed, and loved every second of it.
~~~~
Grateful to Shann McPherson and The Smuthood for the Advanced Reader Copy. All views expressed are solely my own. ✨
This book was everything I didn't know I needed.
I went in expecting a fun, spicy hockey romcom and ended up with something that carried real heart and emotional weight.
Happy and Hannah's connection felt chaotic, genuine, and earned, starting off messy and banter-filled before slowly growing into something deeper. Happy's carefree, playboy image hides far more than you expect, and watching those layers come down was incredibly satisfying. Hannah, guarded, sharp, and fed up with men, felt painfully real and easy to root for.
The chemistry between them was instant and intense, with banter that had me laughing out loud and tension that never let up. The spice hits early and often, but it never overshadows the emotional connection, which is where this story truly shines. The secrets, the vulnerability, the found-family energy, and the pressure surrounding Hannah's life added depth without unnecessary drama. I especially loved that the conflict stayed grounded and realistic instead of relying on a forced third-act breakup.
Funny, spicy, emotional, and surprisingly tender, this book had me fully invested from start to finish. I cared deeply about these characters, their messiness, and the way they showed up for each other when things got hard.
I laughed, swooned, stressed, and loved every second of it.
~~~~
Grateful to Shann McPherson and The Smuthood for the Advanced Reader Copy. All views expressed are solely my own. ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
Releases 1/15
♾️🌟
Tropes-
Hockey romance
Frienemies with benefits
Reformed playboy
Super secret trope
Coach's daughter
"And I know, without a doubt, Hannah Draper is more than just my match; she’s my fucking all."
✨️Thank you so much to Shann and Smuthood PR for this ARC for my honest review. Listen to me, if you love Hockey romances and you have yet to read the New York Thunder series, what are you waiting for? They're all 5 🌟 reads! This was my first book of the year and I really don't know how I'm going to beat it. The super secret trope was actually my favorite and I can't wait for everyone to experience this book. I'm so sad that one of my favorite series has ended. I'm already planning on a re-read because this has become a comfort series for me. 100% recommend!
Also Shann, you absolutely killed it with the Playlist. 😭😍 I'm a sucker for a good Playlist.
Releases 1/15
♾️🌟
Tropes-
Hockey romance
Frienemies with benefits
Reformed playboy
Super secret trope
Coach's daughter
"And I know, without a doubt, Hannah Draper is more than just my match; she’s my fucking all."
✨️Thank you so much to Shann and Smuthood PR for this ARC for my honest review. Listen to me, if you love Hockey romances and you have yet to read the New York Thunder series, what are you waiting for? They're all 5 🌟 reads! This was my first book of the year and I really don't know how I'm going to beat it. The super secret trope was actually my favorite and I can't wait for everyone to experience this book. I'm so sad that one of my favorite series has ended. I'm already planning on a re-read because this has become a comfort series for me. 100% recommend!
Also Shann, you absolutely killed it with the Playlist. 😭😍 I'm a sucker for a good Playlist.
January 14, 2026
Hate-Hookups to Happy Ever After
Dedication: For anyone who has ever felt the need to hide a part of their true self: you and all your pieces are what make you, you, and your people will accept every single messy, chaotic, imperfect part.
Hannah (FMC): Talent & Acquisitions Coordinator: Sports News Network • Sassy Black Cat • Dog Mom •
Happy (MMC): NHL Defenseman • Golden Retriever Energy • Fun & Flirty • Dislikes K-pop Demon Hunters • Living with a Big Secret •
Tropes:
🏒 Coach’s Daughter x Hockey Player
🐕 Frenemies to Lovers
🏒 Hockey Romance
🐕 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🏒 Reformed Playboy
🐕 Adorable Fluffy Sidekick
🏒 Banter as Flirting
🐕 Found Family
🏒 Secret Identity
🐕 Forbidden Romance
🏒 Nicknames
Rating: 👹👹👹👹 (4⭐️)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (dirty talk, praise, 👅, 💦💦, 🥗 tossing, 🍑 play, hand necklace, hair pulling, impact play, toys as teammates, self pleasure, fun on FaceTime, cleaning up their mess, 💧play, spitting, light br33ding sm!nk)
T/W: infidelity (not MCs, referenced), pejorative term for sexual fulfillment (on page), alcohol consumption (on page), manipulation (referenced), power dynamics (referenced), unwanted following (referenced), bullying (referenced), dieting (referenced), drunk driving (referenced), death of a loved one (referenced), C-PTSD (Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Referenced), alcohol poisoning (referenced), alcohol addiction and narcotics addiction (referenced), OD (referenced)
This frenemies-to-lovers hockey romcom is pure chaos in the best way. Happy Slater may lead with unserious playboy energy, but watching him peel back those layers is ridiculously satisfying. He’s charming, filthy-mouthed, secretly soft, and far deeper than anyone gives him credit for. Hannah Draper—the coach’s daughter with a spine of steel and a heart she keeps under lock and key—is both his perfect match and his biggest challenge. She’s smart, guarded, and done with men—especially hockey men—and their push-pull dynamic is delicious. One night turns into many, feelings get messier than intended, and suddenly this “just for fun” situation is loaded with longing, vulnerability, and a whole lot of heart.
Their banter snaps, the tension simmers, and every interaction feels like a dare neither of them wants to back down from. The spice hits early and often, but it never overshadows the emotional connection—which is where this story really shines. Beneath the sharp humor and heat is a surprisingly tender bond built on trust, honesty, and a meaningful secret that reshapes the entire relationship. It’s handled with care and emotional depth, and watching Hannah slowly let him all the way in was equal parts swoony and satisfying.
I will say, as much as I loved how this element was written and how central it became to the story, I personally would have appreciated a small heads-up going in. It’s a significant emotional component, and while it ultimately deepened the romance for me, I know some readers may be sensitive to certain family-related themes and prefer to have that context before diving in.
Add in a feisty coach dad, found family energy, a ridiculously cute rooftop moment, and a hero who quietly becomes the greenest of green flags, and this felt like a strong, heartfelt finish to the series. I did want Hannah to get out of her own way a few times, but overall, seeing these two figure out their version of a happily ever after was worth every page. Funny, spicy, tender, and a little unhinged in the best way, this was a standout hockey romcom and a fantastic send-off to the Thunder series.
I received an ARC copy and wanted to leave an honest review.
Dedication: For anyone who has ever felt the need to hide a part of their true self: you and all your pieces are what make you, you, and your people will accept every single messy, chaotic, imperfect part.
Hannah (FMC): Talent & Acquisitions Coordinator: Sports News Network • Sassy Black Cat • Dog Mom •
Happy (MMC): NHL Defenseman • Golden Retriever Energy • Fun & Flirty • Dislikes K-pop Demon Hunters • Living with a Big Secret •
Tropes:
🏒 Coach’s Daughter x Hockey Player
🐕 Frenemies to Lovers
🏒 Hockey Romance
🐕 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🏒 Reformed Playboy
🐕 Adorable Fluffy Sidekick
🏒 Banter as Flirting
🐕 Found Family
🏒 Secret Identity
🐕 Forbidden Romance
🏒 Nicknames
Rating: 👹👹👹👹 (4⭐️)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (dirty talk, praise, 👅, 💦💦, 🥗 tossing, 🍑 play, hand necklace, hair pulling, impact play, toys as teammates, self pleasure, fun on FaceTime, cleaning up their mess, 💧play, spitting, light br33ding sm!nk)
T/W: infidelity (not MCs, referenced), pejorative term for sexual fulfillment (on page), alcohol consumption (on page), manipulation (referenced), power dynamics (referenced), unwanted following (referenced), bullying (referenced), dieting (referenced), drunk driving (referenced), death of a loved one (referenced), C-PTSD (Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Referenced), alcohol poisoning (referenced), alcohol addiction and narcotics addiction (referenced), OD (referenced)
This frenemies-to-lovers hockey romcom is pure chaos in the best way. Happy Slater may lead with unserious playboy energy, but watching him peel back those layers is ridiculously satisfying. He’s charming, filthy-mouthed, secretly soft, and far deeper than anyone gives him credit for. Hannah Draper—the coach’s daughter with a spine of steel and a heart she keeps under lock and key—is both his perfect match and his biggest challenge. She’s smart, guarded, and done with men—especially hockey men—and their push-pull dynamic is delicious. One night turns into many, feelings get messier than intended, and suddenly this “just for fun” situation is loaded with longing, vulnerability, and a whole lot of heart.
Their banter snaps, the tension simmers, and every interaction feels like a dare neither of them wants to back down from. The spice hits early and often, but it never overshadows the emotional connection—which is where this story really shines. Beneath the sharp humor and heat is a surprisingly tender bond built on trust, honesty, and a meaningful secret that reshapes the entire relationship. It’s handled with care and emotional depth, and watching Hannah slowly let him all the way in was equal parts swoony and satisfying.
I will say, as much as I loved how this element was written and how central it became to the story, I personally would have appreciated a small heads-up going in. It’s a significant emotional component, and while it ultimately deepened the romance for me, I know some readers may be sensitive to certain family-related themes and prefer to have that context before diving in.
Add in a feisty coach dad, found family energy, a ridiculously cute rooftop moment, and a hero who quietly becomes the greenest of green flags, and this felt like a strong, heartfelt finish to the series. I did want Hannah to get out of her own way a few times, but overall, seeing these two figure out their version of a happily ever after was worth every page. Funny, spicy, tender, and a little unhinged in the best way, this was a standout hockey romcom and a fantastic send-off to the Thunder series.
I received an ARC copy and wanted to leave an honest review.
Review of advance copy
DNF at 30%. This book just wasn’t for me. What initially made me request this ARC were the hockey and frenemies with benefits tropes, but I stopped reading after the first three chapters. I found the pacing to be way too fast for my liking, and I’m not someone who loves insta love romances, so my choice to stop reading was more about my own reading preferences than the book itself. Readers who enjoy enemies to lovers insta love romances with a faster paced plot will probably love this book.
January 14, 2026
✨Arc Review✨
Happy Ever After
Book 4 in New York Thunder Series
Available Now
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
🏒Hockey Romance
💚Frienemies with benifits
🏒Reformed playboy
💚He falls first
🏒Coaches daughter
💚A super secret trope
I devoured this book. Like, cancel all the plans, ignore responsibilities, adulting did not happen at all! 🤣
Happy is officially tied with Dallas for my favorite book boyfriend in this series. Can’t pick and don’t make me!
Yes, Happy Slater is a playboy… well that’s also an image he plays well too👀 until Hannah Draper gives him the time of day and then that man is all in. Completely gone. And I’m here for it! There’s so much more to him beneath that golden retriever charm, and I loved seeing that depth.
Hannah is done with men. She’s independent, sharp tongued, and a total badass who wants nothing to do with a manwhore… she’s been burned so that’s not exactly unexpected. But Happy is charming, gorgeous, and apparently impossible to resist even if it’s “just for the benefits.”🥵
The banter? Perfect.
The chemistry? Off. The. Charts.
The spice? Starts in chapter 3 and Shann delivers! There’s no slow burn, no suffering 😏
This book is laugh out loud funny, sweet, swoony, spicy, and packed with fun twists, including a WTF super secret trope I did not see coming and absolutely didn’t know I needed! It gave the story so much more depth!
Add this to your TBR immediately. And if you haven’t read the other books in the series yet, let’s fix that. You won’t regret it. 💥📚
Thank you so much Shann McPherson and The Smuthood for this ARC opportunity. Loved it a ton!
Happy Ever After
Book 4 in New York Thunder Series
Available Now
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
🏒Hockey Romance
💚Frienemies with benifits
🏒Reformed playboy
💚He falls first
🏒Coaches daughter
💚A super secret trope
I devoured this book. Like, cancel all the plans, ignore responsibilities, adulting did not happen at all! 🤣
Happy is officially tied with Dallas for my favorite book boyfriend in this series. Can’t pick and don’t make me!
Yes, Happy Slater is a playboy… well that’s also an image he plays well too👀 until Hannah Draper gives him the time of day and then that man is all in. Completely gone. And I’m here for it! There’s so much more to him beneath that golden retriever charm, and I loved seeing that depth.
Hannah is done with men. She’s independent, sharp tongued, and a total badass who wants nothing to do with a manwhore… she’s been burned so that’s not exactly unexpected. But Happy is charming, gorgeous, and apparently impossible to resist even if it’s “just for the benefits.”🥵
The banter? Perfect.
The chemistry? Off. The. Charts.
The spice? Starts in chapter 3 and Shann delivers! There’s no slow burn, no suffering 😏
This book is laugh out loud funny, sweet, swoony, spicy, and packed with fun twists, including a WTF super secret trope I did not see coming and absolutely didn’t know I needed! It gave the story so much more depth!
Add this to your TBR immediately. And if you haven’t read the other books in the series yet, let’s fix that. You won’t regret it. 💥📚
Thank you so much Shann McPherson and The Smuthood for this ARC opportunity. Loved it a ton!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! I loved everything about Happy and Hannah. The book was a ton of fun and there were so many moments I was laughing out loud. Shann did an amazing job balancing the humor and spice with a storyline that had me hooked.
Happy was sweet, spicy, and swoony, which made him the dream book boyfriend. I loved seeing so many different sides of him. He was the perfect match for Hannah, who was a total baddie! I loved that she was a fighter and stood up for herself.
My favorite part of the book was definitely the secret trope! How could it not be! I also loved seeing the other characters in the story and how supportive the friend group was throughout.
Happy was sweet, spicy, and swoony, which made him the dream book boyfriend. I loved seeing so many different sides of him. He was the perfect match for Hannah, who was a total baddie! I loved that she was a fighter and stood up for herself.
My favorite part of the book was definitely the secret trope! How could it not be! I also loved seeing the other characters in the story and how supportive the friend group was throughout.
Read
January 19, 2026ARC review !!
This was such a fun read! I always love a hockey romance and this one is definitely up there with the favourites. Hannah was such a loveable FMC and don’t even get me started with Happy because he has to be the best MMC in the series in my opinion.
The plot had me so engrossed, I read the entire book in one sitting especially after a certain twist (no spoilers for those who haven’t been able to read it yet 👀)
This book flows perfectly from the last and has to be my favourite from the series which I’m pleasantly surprised about!
Thank you Shann McPherson and The Smuthood for this ARC 🫶🫶
This was such a fun read! I always love a hockey romance and this one is definitely up there with the favourites. Hannah was such a loveable FMC and don’t even get me started with Happy because he has to be the best MMC in the series in my opinion.
The plot had me so engrossed, I read the entire book in one sitting especially after a certain twist (no spoilers for those who haven’t been able to read it yet 👀)
This book flows perfectly from the last and has to be my favourite from the series which I’m pleasantly surprised about!
Thank you Shann McPherson and The Smuthood for this ARC 🫶🫶
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely inhaled this book in a single sitting 😍 I loved it so much!!
Hannah is fed up with men, she's independant, sharp tongued and a sassy bad ass who knows what she wants and she definitely wants nothing to do with the manwhore Happy Slater... but he's charming, gorgeous and it turns out he's impossible to resist, even if its just for the benefits 🤭
Shann promised us a spicer New York Thunder book than the last 3 and oooh boy did she deliver 🥵
Their banter is on point and their chemistry is off the charts and the yummy spice starts in chapter 3 🎉 no slow burn agony for us in this book
This is a brilliantly written,
laugh out loud funny, sweet, swoon-worthy, feet kickingly good story with fun plot twists and a WTF super secret trope you should add to your TBR immediately and if you haven't already... read the other 3 books in this series... you will not regret it
🏒 Hockey Romance
💚 Frienemies with benifits
🏒 Reformed playboy
💚 He falls first
🏒 Coaches daughter
💚 A super secret trope
Thank you so much Shann McPherson and The Smuthood for this fabulous ARC opportunity ❤️
Hannah is fed up with men, she's independant, sharp tongued and a sassy bad ass who knows what she wants and she definitely wants nothing to do with the manwhore Happy Slater... but he's charming, gorgeous and it turns out he's impossible to resist, even if its just for the benefits 🤭
Shann promised us a spicer New York Thunder book than the last 3 and oooh boy did she deliver 🥵
Their banter is on point and their chemistry is off the charts and the yummy spice starts in chapter 3 🎉 no slow burn agony for us in this book
This is a brilliantly written,
laugh out loud funny, sweet, swoon-worthy, feet kickingly good story with fun plot twists and a WTF super secret trope you should add to your TBR immediately and if you haven't already... read the other 3 books in this series... you will not regret it
🏒 Hockey Romance
💚 Frienemies with benifits
🏒 Reformed playboy
💚 He falls first
🏒 Coaches daughter
💚 A super secret trope
Thank you so much Shann McPherson and The Smuthood for this fabulous ARC opportunity ❤️
January 13, 2026
this book was amazing, a super fun hockey romance, it was very comedic with some darker aspects of a plot sprinkled in. But what stood out to me the most were the two mcs and their amazing chemistry. First I still can’t get over the fact that this book is called Happy Ever After (see how it’s not Happily), because the Mmcs name is Happy. I burst out laughing the first time I saw his name. Happy is perceived as your typical playboy hockey player but on the inside he’s a lot more than that. He’s a single dad, dealing with a child who had C-PTSD, so I’ll put it here, check the trigger warning. Even though the book itself isn’t dark, it covers potentially triggering themes. But most of this is a cute hockey romance, as they go from frenemies to friends with benefits, to catching feelings but not admitting them, and finally becoming lovers at long last. There also a little forbidden element to this as well, because the fmc, Hannah, is the coach’s daughter! I loved this plot, it was fun as they figured out their relationship and even better when Lucky came into the picture. She was adorable and the is biggest support of Hannah and Happy. She’s also a freak for Kpop Demon Hunters which I can definitely appreciate. This books plot was great, there is a little side plot to the romance and though it wasn’t really surprising it was a good addition (but in my opinion it didn’t have to be there). Either way this book was such a quick enjoyable read, with some good ole hockey players and a strong fmc who puts him in his place. I give this a 5/5
January 14, 2026
Possessive Hockey Player Reformed Playboy with a no-nonsense “not afraid to punch you in the face” FMC …yes please!!
I love an enemies to lovers, so this one started off on the right foot for me lol! Even if it does turn rather quickly to the lovers portion of the trope lol!! (PS …it’s Chapter 3 😏)
I loved how the relationship built. It went from “anyone but you” to “you’re not horrible” to “you are not who I thought you were” and beyond! My fave is when the MCs become friends through the story and how they learn to trust each other.
Ok, this is a spicy meatball!! You have been warned lol.
Happy is a great book boyfriend! He’s confident but not cocky, he’s patient and yet demanding when needed, he stakes a claim but still gives her space 🥰
I loved the “hidden” story. I thought it added such a sweet layer, and gave the relationship a new depth to it.
I won’t say too much more, cause there are some nice little surprises in here that I don’t want to spoil. So I guess you’ll have to read it for yourself 😁
I love an enemies to lovers, so this one started off on the right foot for me lol! Even if it does turn rather quickly to the lovers portion of the trope lol!! (PS …it’s Chapter 3 😏)
I loved how the relationship built. It went from “anyone but you” to “you’re not horrible” to “you are not who I thought you were” and beyond! My fave is when the MCs become friends through the story and how they learn to trust each other.
Ok, this is a spicy meatball!! You have been warned lol.
Happy is a great book boyfriend! He’s confident but not cocky, he’s patient and yet demanding when needed, he stakes a claim but still gives her space 🥰
I loved the “hidden” story. I thought it added such a sweet layer, and gave the relationship a new depth to it.
I won’t say too much more, cause there are some nice little surprises in here that I don’t want to spoil. So I guess you’ll have to read it for yourself 😁
January 15, 2026
I loved this book! It was so easy to read and the secret trope - done perfectly! I personally like a dual pov - I know it’s not for everyone but I find the chapters go by faster. This was the 4th book in the series and it was such a fun hockey romance - I haven’t read the first three but I plan to now.
The pacing was pretty fast and I’m not sad - it gets spicy by chapter 3 and Shann gives you a heads up that that is this book…we jump right in.
Hannah is such a baddie and I am here for it! She is the coaches daughter and so strong willed. She also has a mean right hook 😂
Happy is a D man on Hannah’s father’s team - he’s had his eyes set on Hannah for years. He has this playboy reputation but is that really who he is?
The secrets they carry keep them guarded but watching them open themselves up - especially Happy - you can’t help but fall in love with them. To watch their frenemies with benefits relationship start and develop - I just ate it up! Thank you Smuthood PR and Shann McPherson for the early read! All opinions are my own.
The pacing was pretty fast and I’m not sad - it gets spicy by chapter 3 and Shann gives you a heads up that that is this book…we jump right in.
Hannah is such a baddie and I am here for it! She is the coaches daughter and so strong willed. She also has a mean right hook 😂
Happy is a D man on Hannah’s father’s team - he’s had his eyes set on Hannah for years. He has this playboy reputation but is that really who he is?
The secrets they carry keep them guarded but watching them open themselves up - especially Happy - you can’t help but fall in love with them. To watch their frenemies with benefits relationship start and develop - I just ate it up! Thank you Smuthood PR and Shann McPherson for the early read! All opinions are my own.
January 12, 2026
Happy Ever After was an instant five-star read for me. Shann McPherson delivers a fast-paced, swoony hockey romance packed with banter, tension, and genuine emotional depth.
Happy Slater starts out as a full-blown playboy, but watching his shift into a fiercely protective, all-in partner was incredibly satisfying. Hannah Draper is confident, bold, and unapologetic — I loved how she owned her sexuality and stood her ground throughout the story. Their enemies-to-frenemies-to-lovers dynamic wastes no time and brings both heat and heart.
The story also weaves in a super secret trope that adds another layer to the romance without overshadowing the fun, flirty energy. The supporting cast fits naturally, and the pacing never drags — it hooks you from chapter one.
This was a fun, emotional, and addictive hockey romance that absolutely delivered. A perfect addition to the New York Thunder series.
ARC provided for honest review.
Happy Slater starts out as a full-blown playboy, but watching his shift into a fiercely protective, all-in partner was incredibly satisfying. Hannah Draper is confident, bold, and unapologetic — I loved how she owned her sexuality and stood her ground throughout the story. Their enemies-to-frenemies-to-lovers dynamic wastes no time and brings both heat and heart.
The story also weaves in a super secret trope that adds another layer to the romance without overshadowing the fun, flirty energy. The supporting cast fits naturally, and the pacing never drags — it hooks you from chapter one.
This was a fun, emotional, and addictive hockey romance that absolutely delivered. A perfect addition to the New York Thunder series.
ARC provided for honest review.
January 16, 2026
This book was like curling up with a cozy blanket… except the blanket occasionally made me sigh and aww with complete swoonment (yes I just made that word up okay!) and sometimes chuckle for a few minutes.
The book has banter, chemistry, and just enough emotional chaos to keep me muttering “oh my god, JUST TALK” while absolutely refusing to put it down. The characters are messy, relatable, and occasionally ridiculous in the best way—aka, very human. Happy is the epitome of a half naked Abercrombie model (are they still around? Is my millennial showing?) walking around your living room being a swoon worthy book boyfriend and Hannah is a totally strong bad ass who can fight for herself.
Happy Ever After is one of those romances that knows exactly what it’s doing: giving you feels, mild frustration, and a payoff that makes all the nonsense worth it. If you like your love stories with humor, heart, and a little sass, this one will do the job nicely.
The book has banter, chemistry, and just enough emotional chaos to keep me muttering “oh my god, JUST TALK” while absolutely refusing to put it down. The characters are messy, relatable, and occasionally ridiculous in the best way—aka, very human. Happy is the epitome of a half naked Abercrombie model (are they still around? Is my millennial showing?) walking around your living room being a swoon worthy book boyfriend and Hannah is a totally strong bad ass who can fight for herself.
Happy Ever After is one of those romances that knows exactly what it’s doing: giving you feels, mild frustration, and a payoff that makes all the nonsense worth it. If you like your love stories with humor, heart, and a little sass, this one will do the job nicely.
January 6, 2026
What an ending to an amazing series.
I absolutely loved Happy and Hannah’s story - apart he is the playboy and she is the fierce and independent coaches daughter - together they are pure magic. They put their trust and faith into each other and it’s heartwarming to read.
I laughed out loud, I gasped and I cried.
I devoured this book because it was so hard not to be addicted to them - I was sucked in and all I wanted was more.
The romance was chef kiss, the chemistry was OFF THE CHARTS and the spice was on point!
I have loved this series and I’m so upset we have to say goodbye to these amazing men and their ladies. I have loved every second of them all.
Thank you so much to Shann and the team at Smuthood for this eARC in exchange for my honest review
I absolutely loved Happy and Hannah’s story - apart he is the playboy and she is the fierce and independent coaches daughter - together they are pure magic. They put their trust and faith into each other and it’s heartwarming to read.
I laughed out loud, I gasped and I cried.
I devoured this book because it was so hard not to be addicted to them - I was sucked in and all I wanted was more.
The romance was chef kiss, the chemistry was OFF THE CHARTS and the spice was on point!
I have loved this series and I’m so upset we have to say goodbye to these amazing men and their ladies. I have loved every second of them all.
Thank you so much to Shann and the team at Smuthood for this eARC in exchange for my honest review
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
🏒 Playboy hockey player MMC
💚 Coach's daughter FMC
🏒 Frenemies with benefits
💚 Found family
🏒Good boy
💚 Super secret microtrope that I didn't know I needed 🤫
Happy Ever After was THE perfect ending to the New York Thunder series 👏 McPherson has an incredible knack of blending plot, loveable characters, banter and spice. If she writes it, I will read it 👏
Happy Slater is the happy go lucky playboy of the friend group. Hannah Draper is the coach's daughter and is done with men. Honestly, they are electric together. They balanced each other out so well 💚
If you love hockey romance, characters with depth, banter and spice, you NEED to check out the New York Thunder series. Every single book has been a banger 🙌
Thank you to Shann and The Smuthood for the advanced reader copy.
🌶🌶🌶
🏒 Playboy hockey player MMC
💚 Coach's daughter FMC
🏒 Frenemies with benefits
💚 Found family
🏒Good boy
💚 Super secret microtrope that I didn't know I needed 🤫
Happy Ever After was THE perfect ending to the New York Thunder series 👏 McPherson has an incredible knack of blending plot, loveable characters, banter and spice. If she writes it, I will read it 👏
Happy Slater is the happy go lucky playboy of the friend group. Hannah Draper is the coach's daughter and is done with men. Honestly, they are electric together. They balanced each other out so well 💚
If you love hockey romance, characters with depth, banter and spice, you NEED to check out the New York Thunder series. Every single book has been a banger 🙌
Thank you to Shann and The Smuthood for the advanced reader copy.
January 14, 2026
Lighthearted and spicy, this coach’s daughter, hockey romcom had me smitten. (What else can you expect with a MMC named Happy?!) Hannah and Happy were an unlikely pair, and I loved their dynamic, layers, and frenemies with benefits romance. I was charmed by the super secret trope, and the subsequent relationship resulting from it warmed my heart. I could relate to the Toast Malone moments…Hannah’s dog sure provided some comedic and relatable moments! This series has been so fun to experience— I appreciate how each book in The New York Thunder series has a different vibe/range of emotions, the authenticity of each of the characters is really special, and I’ve adored each one. 4.25 stars
Thanks to the author and TheSmuthood for the eARc.
Thanks to the author and TheSmuthood for the eARc.
January 14, 2026
Happy + Hannah (Baby Draper).
BABY! This book! I devoured it in one sitting not because of the spice (because the spice WAS spicing in this one) but because these characters were SO well written.
Happy is our resident playboy (or is he?). Dare I say he is REFORMED once he sets his sights on Hannah. Happy Ever After hits all the marks for a great sports romance because it has DEPTH. Hannah's character is so well written, she is the perfect match for Happy on all accounts.
Happy is a green flag. Yes, he has a past but don't we all? He listens to Hannah. He protects her and takes care of her. & he is just an overall good guy.
Thank you to the author & the smuthood for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
BABY! This book! I devoured it in one sitting not because of the spice (because the spice WAS spicing in this one) but because these characters were SO well written.
Happy is our resident playboy (or is he?). Dare I say he is REFORMED once he sets his sights on Hannah. Happy Ever After hits all the marks for a great sports romance because it has DEPTH. Hannah's character is so well written, she is the perfect match for Happy on all accounts.
Happy is a green flag. Yes, he has a past but don't we all? He listens to Hannah. He protects her and takes care of her. & he is just an overall good guy.
Thank you to the author & the smuthood for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy
Absolutely spectacular! I adored this book! Happy is a complete golden retriever, and the forbidden (ish) nature of their relationship is so fun! And PLOT TWIST GALORE. I did NOT see that plot twist coming at all, and I LOVED what it did to the story - it all became so much more real, and sincere, and sweet. Fantastic read
Review of advance copy
4 Stars
2 Chili Peppers
Book 4 in The New York Thunder Series
Hannah and Happy's story
Okay first off, I need a spin off of some sort that is Toast Malone! I am obsessed with him! Now that that is out of the way, this is my first from Shann and first in this interconnected standalone series and I really enjoyed this book! It was fast paced, lovable characters, and moments that had me smiling and laughing and moments where I was saying WTF! Hannah is the coach's daughter and Happy is on her father's team so that obviously makes her off limits...or you would think. Reading their story I felt like I was there watching this all unfold.
I can't wait to go back and read the rest of the series!
2 Chili Peppers
Book 4 in The New York Thunder Series
Hannah and Happy's story
Okay first off, I need a spin off of some sort that is Toast Malone! I am obsessed with him! Now that that is out of the way, this is my first from Shann and first in this interconnected standalone series and I really enjoyed this book! It was fast paced, lovable characters, and moments that had me smiling and laughing and moments where I was saying WTF! Hannah is the coach's daughter and Happy is on her father's team so that obviously makes her off limits...or you would think. Reading their story I felt like I was there watching this all unfold.
I can't wait to go back and read the rest of the series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
5⭐️
3🌶
This was my favorite of the series. Hands Down. The super secret trope was an AMAZING addition that I definitely wasn't expecting.
Happy may have been a playboy but he was completely gone for Hannah Draper. The moment that she gave him the time of day, he was all in, all about her, all the time. There is so much more to him underneath that golden retriever persona he has and I loved being able to see that side of him.
Hannah was a little bit of a mystery to me, but once her situation was explained, I felt so bad for her. She really didn't want to let Happy in but the closer they got, the harder she could resist. Her relationship with her Dad was honestly so refreshing.
Can we take just a moment to talk about the spice because YESSSS. 👏 The big bad playboy hockey player loses his mind over being good a good boy?!OBSESSED 🫠
3🌶
This was my favorite of the series. Hands Down. The super secret trope was an AMAZING addition that I definitely wasn't expecting.
Happy may have been a playboy but he was completely gone for Hannah Draper. The moment that she gave him the time of day, he was all in, all about her, all the time. There is so much more to him underneath that golden retriever persona he has and I loved being able to see that side of him.
Hannah was a little bit of a mystery to me, but once her situation was explained, I felt so bad for her. She really didn't want to let Happy in but the closer they got, the harder she could resist. Her relationship with her Dad was honestly so refreshing.
Can we take just a moment to talk about the spice because YESSSS. 👏 The big bad playboy hockey player loses his mind over being good a good boy?!OBSESSED 🫠
Review of advance copy received from Author
I finished this book late last night and then today driving my daughter home from school I followed a SUV with a licence plate that said Slaters and could picture Happy getting a personalized plate for his Mrs. I loved this book and would definitely love an epilogue a few years into the future.
Hannah is the coach’s daughter and even though she is Daddy's girl, she chose a career that was sports related but did not follow his footsteps. She does still work with athletes but not just hockey players. Her Dad's team of players and their partners are some of her closest friends. She has a toxic relationship with her mother and tries to avoid her at all costs, which is relatively easy since theg live thousands of miles apart and phones can be disconnected very easily. Hannah loves physical touch but has bad luck jn relationships. Her last one did damage and made her wary of men, especially since she was unknowingly the other woman. Only a couple people know the full story regarding that situation.
Happy was a second line defenseman on the team. In public he appears to be like his name, happy and easy going. He seems to be a bit of a playboy and lives an uncomplicated life. He is the son of a rock star and former model so he is the definition of a rich kid but not a snob or pretentious. He hangs out with his teammates after games and jokes around. He flirts and makes Hannah feel safe. But looks can be deceiving and our first impressions aren't accurate because Happy has a secret.
After a party, Hannah's ex corners her and Happy helps her out. After making sure she is ok and hearing the full story, he offers his assistance if she ever needs it. At that moment, Hannah needs a physical distraction and they begin a frenemies with benefits agreement for the night. But one night turns into more and more until feelings get involved. Soon their friends are getting suspicious because they disappear at the same time. Then one night, Hannah finds out the secret Happy has been keeping for five years.
His secret is huge and she us surprised at the fact that he had been able to conceal it for so long. Learning the truth and seeing the real Happy made them grow closer. Soon they were meeting the parents and telling the coach. Hannah soon became one of the WAGS even though that was something she never wanted. She liked the players but never was a puck bunny trying to get their attention. Happy's secret brought Happy and Hannah closer and it unlocked something in Hannah that she never knew existed. She wanted a family of her own not just a solo existence.
Sometimes secrets aren't meant to be secrets and in this case it is true. Happy's secret brought him closer to his teammates too. They saw him in a different light and his true self became an even better hockey player because he wasn't living a double life anymore. I love how Happy and Hannah brought out the best in each other. This book is a definite keeper!
Thank you Shann McPherson and Smuthood PR for the ARC and the opportunity to review this amazing book!
Hannah is the coach’s daughter and even though she is Daddy's girl, she chose a career that was sports related but did not follow his footsteps. She does still work with athletes but not just hockey players. Her Dad's team of players and their partners are some of her closest friends. She has a toxic relationship with her mother and tries to avoid her at all costs, which is relatively easy since theg live thousands of miles apart and phones can be disconnected very easily. Hannah loves physical touch but has bad luck jn relationships. Her last one did damage and made her wary of men, especially since she was unknowingly the other woman. Only a couple people know the full story regarding that situation.
Happy was a second line defenseman on the team. In public he appears to be like his name, happy and easy going. He seems to be a bit of a playboy and lives an uncomplicated life. He is the son of a rock star and former model so he is the definition of a rich kid but not a snob or pretentious. He hangs out with his teammates after games and jokes around. He flirts and makes Hannah feel safe. But looks can be deceiving and our first impressions aren't accurate because Happy has a secret.
After a party, Hannah's ex corners her and Happy helps her out. After making sure she is ok and hearing the full story, he offers his assistance if she ever needs it. At that moment, Hannah needs a physical distraction and they begin a frenemies with benefits agreement for the night. But one night turns into more and more until feelings get involved. Soon their friends are getting suspicious because they disappear at the same time. Then one night, Hannah finds out the secret Happy has been keeping for five years.
His secret is huge and she us surprised at the fact that he had been able to conceal it for so long. Learning the truth and seeing the real Happy made them grow closer. Soon they were meeting the parents and telling the coach. Hannah soon became one of the WAGS even though that was something she never wanted. She liked the players but never was a puck bunny trying to get their attention. Happy's secret brought Happy and Hannah closer and it unlocked something in Hannah that she never knew existed. She wanted a family of her own not just a solo existence.
Sometimes secrets aren't meant to be secrets and in this case it is true. Happy's secret brought him closer to his teammates too. They saw him in a different light and his true self became an even better hockey player because he wasn't living a double life anymore. I love how Happy and Hannah brought out the best in each other. This book is a definite keeper!
Thank you Shann McPherson and Smuthood PR for the ARC and the opportunity to review this amazing book!
January 20, 2026
🌟ARC Review🌟
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
🏒 Hockey Romance
🐕🦺 Coach’s Daughter
🏒 Frenemies with Benefits
🐕🦺 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🏒 Reformed Playboy
🐕🦺 Found Family
🏒 Mental Health Rep
🐕🦺 Super Secret Trope
Hot damn, I don’t even know where to start! I’d been curious about Happy and Baby Draper since the beginning, but especially after reading the ARC for the third book in the series. So while the books in the New York Thunder series can be read as standalones, reading the whole series gives you a perfect picture of all the dynamics. This is the fourth book in the series, and I’m so glad to see Hannah and Happy finally get their HEA.
Happy Slater is known as the manwhore of the New York Thunder hockey team and is completely unapologetic about who he is. Except, he hides a serious secret that he deflects with his unserious behaviour.
Hannah Draper—or Baby Draper—is the Thunder’s coach’s daughter. She feisty and fierce, she’s the type to punch you in the face and then make you apologize for hurting her hand, and she’s absolutely over men and all their bs. She doesn’t want to accept a ride home from the team’s playboy, but when he comes to her aid, she can’t deny their chemistry and that they could be frenemies with benefits. Along the way, she learns that appearances are deceiving and can hide a golden retriever of a man.
The part that really stood out to me most—besides the secret—was how natural Happy and Hannah’s connection grew. Their sexual chemistry was hot and explosive, the dirty-talk, the kinks, all of it, but the quieter moments where they actually fell in love and didn’t yet clock it were even sweeter. Their banter was top-notch, this had moments of being laugh-out-loud funny, but the ways they stepped up for each other added the depth in their storylines, and to the overall plot of the series, because this had so much heart.
Also, I was very happy to finally read a FMC who not only enjoys sex, but absolutely isn’t afraid of her sexuality or what she likes. She asked for exactly what she wanted and needed without overly worrying about whether her partner found her attractive, or what she tasted or smelled like, or felt like she had to hide perceived physical flaws—💦 worry aside because drowning someone is valid fear.
I won’t spoil it, but I really and truly appreciated the mental health rep. Not only with the character suffering C-PTSD, but the feelings Hannah felt regarding her mother, the addiction and recovery storylines of Happy’s dad and Brookes. There aren’t a lot of people who could handle it with the care and compassion that Shann did, and I’m so glad to see someone either has firsthand experience in it or is a caregiver for someone who does. To take on multiple issues felt very real and true to life. Also, shoutout to Prazosin because that made me feel so seen since most people have no idea it’s available and should—it’s the only reason I don’t have C-PTSD nightmares.
Highly recommend this whole series, but this is my hands-down favourite story in it. All of it was perfect.
Thank you to the author and The Smuthood for the ARC.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
🏒 Hockey Romance
🐕🦺 Coach’s Daughter
🏒 Frenemies with Benefits
🐕🦺 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🏒 Reformed Playboy
🐕🦺 Found Family
🏒 Mental Health Rep
🐕🦺 Super Secret Trope
Hot damn, I don’t even know where to start! I’d been curious about Happy and Baby Draper since the beginning, but especially after reading the ARC for the third book in the series. So while the books in the New York Thunder series can be read as standalones, reading the whole series gives you a perfect picture of all the dynamics. This is the fourth book in the series, and I’m so glad to see Hannah and Happy finally get their HEA.
Happy Slater is known as the manwhore of the New York Thunder hockey team and is completely unapologetic about who he is. Except, he hides a serious secret that he deflects with his unserious behaviour.
Hannah Draper—or Baby Draper—is the Thunder’s coach’s daughter. She feisty and fierce, she’s the type to punch you in the face and then make you apologize for hurting her hand, and she’s absolutely over men and all their bs. She doesn’t want to accept a ride home from the team’s playboy, but when he comes to her aid, she can’t deny their chemistry and that they could be frenemies with benefits. Along the way, she learns that appearances are deceiving and can hide a golden retriever of a man.
The part that really stood out to me most—besides the secret—was how natural Happy and Hannah’s connection grew. Their sexual chemistry was hot and explosive, the dirty-talk, the kinks, all of it, but the quieter moments where they actually fell in love and didn’t yet clock it were even sweeter. Their banter was top-notch, this had moments of being laugh-out-loud funny, but the ways they stepped up for each other added the depth in their storylines, and to the overall plot of the series, because this had so much heart.
Also, I was very happy to finally read a FMC who not only enjoys sex, but absolutely isn’t afraid of her sexuality or what she likes. She asked for exactly what she wanted and needed without overly worrying about whether her partner found her attractive, or what she tasted or smelled like, or felt like she had to hide perceived physical flaws—💦 worry aside because drowning someone is valid fear.
I won’t spoil it, but I really and truly appreciated the mental health rep. Not only with the character suffering C-PTSD, but the feelings Hannah felt regarding her mother, the addiction and recovery storylines of Happy’s dad and Brookes. There aren’t a lot of people who could handle it with the care and compassion that Shann did, and I’m so glad to see someone either has firsthand experience in it or is a caregiver for someone who does. To take on multiple issues felt very real and true to life. Also, shoutout to Prazosin because that made me feel so seen since most people have no idea it’s available and should—it’s the only reason I don’t have C-PTSD nightmares.
Highly recommend this whole series, but this is my hands-down favourite story in it. All of it was perfect.
Thank you to the author and The Smuthood for the ARC.
January 15, 2026
Happy Ever After ~New York Thunder #4
By Shann McPherson
♾️⭐️ Infinity Stars - The New York Thunder series just claimed the top spot on my hockey romance throne forever!
I’ve said it before, and I’ll shout it louder now this series is unmatched, and Shann McPherson saved the absolute best for last. As heartbreaking as it is to say goodbye to the Thunder crew, she went out with a spectacular bang in Happy Ever After.
This book is everything I didn’t know I needed and more pure magic on and off the ice.
Happy Slater begins as the ultimate charming playboy carefree second line defenseman, effortlessly flirty, and always ready with a joke for his teammates. But watching him transform into a fiercely protective, 100% all-in partner Absolutely satisfying. The moment he falls for Hannah Draper, he’s gone head-over-skates, completely devoted, and it’s the most swoon worthy thing I’ve read all year.
Hannah is a force, confident, bold, unapologetic, and fiercely independent. As the coach’s daughter, she could’ve coasted on her dad’s legacy, but she carved her own path in the sports world, working with athletes across the board not just hockey. Her found family is the Thunder team and their partners the only real family she has, especially given her toxic relationship with her mother.
Their dynamic is electric frenemies-to-lovers tension, sizzling banter that had me laughing out loud, and chemistry that leaps off the page. He makes her feel safe and seen she sees through his easygoing facade to the genuine, vulnerable man underneath. Happy falls first and he falls hard. As Hannah’s walls slowly crumble, she falls just as deeply, and the trust they build is beautiful to witness.
The spice? 👀🔥 It hits early and often, but it never overshadows the emotional depth or the story. Every steamy moment feels earned and tied to their growing connection.
Here are the tropes that make this book irresistible:
💚Coach’s Daughter
💚Super Secret Trope
💚Toxic Ex
💚 Reformed Playboy
💚 Frenemies to Lovers
💚 All. The. Spice.
The found family vibes are everything the way Happy’s teammates rally around him when it counts (no spoilers!) had me emotional. This entire crew feels like home, and getting more time with them was the perfect send off.
Happy Slater is perfection misunderstood, authentic, and willing to lean on the people who love him. Hannah is his perfect match in every way. Together, they’re unforgettable.
Shann, you truly outdid yourself. This story and this series will live rent free in my heart forever. If you haven’t read The New York Thunder Series yet, drop everything and start now. Happy Ever After is a must read, must own, five star (okay, infinity-star) knockout.
Review of advance copy
📚 ARC BOOK REVIEW — Happy Ever After by Shann McPherson
First off… this was an easy 5‑star read for me. No hesitation. It releases on January 14th, and I’m still over here squealing that I got to dive in early with an ARC.
Happy Ever After is book four in the New York Thunder series, and I’ve been obsessed with this cast ever since I read my first book of the series which was book three. So when I saw book four was coming? Immediate excitement. Immediate ARC Request. Happy dance when I got the selection email. Immediate devour.
Shann writes the kind of fast‑paced, page‑turning romances that hook you from chapter one, and this story was exactly that. This time we follow Happy and Hannah, and while I got a little taste of Hannah’s storyline in book three, you absolutely don’t need to read the previous books to jump into this interconnected standalone. Shann weaves in everything you need without ever slowing the pace.
And listen… the drama brewing at the end of book three? It pops off immediately in chapter one here — and Happy is right there to step in and help Hannah through it.
This enemies → frenemies → lovers arc brings the heat, the tension, the banter, and the chemistry. Happy is a full‑blown playboy, and Hannah is confident, bold, and completely unafraid to own her sexuality. Together? They waste zero time.
Tropes you’ll find:
🏒 hockey romance
🏒 coach’s daughter x teammate
🏒 enemies to lovers
🏒 reformed playboy
And can we talk about Happy’s nickname for her? “Baby Draper.” It starts playful, but as the story grows, it becomes swoony, tender, and so reflective of his shift from carefree playboy to fiercely protective boyfriend who is all in.
I loved everything about this storyline — the hookups that turn into something deeper, the protective energy Happy gives off as Hannah navigates work drama and the tension with her mom, and the way the whole cast fits together so naturally. There’s even a super secret trope woven in that I refuse to spoil, but trust me… it hits and makes the story that much deeper.
Shann has quickly become one of my favorite new‑to‑me authors in the last six months, and this swoony, funny, fast‑paced hockey romance absolutely delivered. I didn’t want it to end.
Add this one to your TBR — Happy and Hannah deserve a spot on your shelf.
#HappyEverAfter #ShannMcPherson #NewYorkThunderSeries #HockeyRomance #thsmuthood
First off… this was an easy 5‑star read for me. No hesitation. It releases on January 14th, and I’m still over here squealing that I got to dive in early with an ARC.
Happy Ever After is book four in the New York Thunder series, and I’ve been obsessed with this cast ever since I read my first book of the series which was book three. So when I saw book four was coming? Immediate excitement. Immediate ARC Request. Happy dance when I got the selection email. Immediate devour.
Shann writes the kind of fast‑paced, page‑turning romances that hook you from chapter one, and this story was exactly that. This time we follow Happy and Hannah, and while I got a little taste of Hannah’s storyline in book three, you absolutely don’t need to read the previous books to jump into this interconnected standalone. Shann weaves in everything you need without ever slowing the pace.
And listen… the drama brewing at the end of book three? It pops off immediately in chapter one here — and Happy is right there to step in and help Hannah through it.
This enemies → frenemies → lovers arc brings the heat, the tension, the banter, and the chemistry. Happy is a full‑blown playboy, and Hannah is confident, bold, and completely unafraid to own her sexuality. Together? They waste zero time.
Tropes you’ll find:
🏒 hockey romance
🏒 coach’s daughter x teammate
🏒 enemies to lovers
🏒 reformed playboy
And can we talk about Happy’s nickname for her? “Baby Draper.” It starts playful, but as the story grows, it becomes swoony, tender, and so reflective of his shift from carefree playboy to fiercely protective boyfriend who is all in.
I loved everything about this storyline — the hookups that turn into something deeper, the protective energy Happy gives off as Hannah navigates work drama and the tension with her mom, and the way the whole cast fits together so naturally. There’s even a super secret trope woven in that I refuse to spoil, but trust me… it hits and makes the story that much deeper.
Shann has quickly become one of my favorite new‑to‑me authors in the last six months, and this swoony, funny, fast‑paced hockey romance absolutely delivered. I didn’t want it to end.
Add this one to your TBR — Happy and Hannah deserve a spot on your shelf.
#HappyEverAfter #ShannMcPherson #NewYorkThunderSeries #HockeyRomance #thsmuthood
January 15, 2026
I tried something completely new with Happy Ever After by starting the series at book four… and I’m honestly thrilled that I did. This book works perfectly as a standalone within The New York Thunder Series, while still giving just enough glimpses of other characters to make me immediately buy the first three books. Safe to say, Shann McPherson is now firmly on my auto-buy list.
From the first chapter, I was completely hooked. Happy and Hannah are the kind of pairing that just works. I adored Happy’s vulnerability beneath his easy charm and reputation. Growing up as the son of a famous model and rock star, he’s known as one of the biggest goofballs and playboys on the team, but there’s so much more depth there than he lets on. Hannah, on the other hand, is strong, driven, and unapologetically herself. A successful sports media professional and a true girl’s girl, she knows exactly who she is and what she wants.
On the surface, they seem like total opposites, but their dynamic is electric. Their banter had me laughing out loud more than once, and the backstory behind how Happy got his name was pure gold and added such a heartfelt layer to his character.
The romance itself is beautifully balanced. Yes, the spice is hot, but what really stood out to me was how thoughtfully Hannah’s sexuality was written. She isn’t afraid to explore, communicate, and own her desires, and that confidence felt powerful, refreshing, and genuinely important. It added depth to the story rather than overshadowing it.
I also loved the secret trope woven throughout the book. It completely caught me off guard, and when everything finally came together, the emotional impact was so much stronger because of it. The payoff felt earned, layered, and deeply satisfying. I’ll avoid spoilers here, but trust me when I say it’s worth the ride.
Overall, Happy Ever After delivered humour, heat, heart, and characters I genuinely cared about. Whether you’re familiar with the series or jumping in fresh like I did, this is a fantastic read that left me smiling long after I turned the final page.
Thank you so much to Shann McPherson and Smuthood PR for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐️
From the first chapter, I was completely hooked. Happy and Hannah are the kind of pairing that just works. I adored Happy’s vulnerability beneath his easy charm and reputation. Growing up as the son of a famous model and rock star, he’s known as one of the biggest goofballs and playboys on the team, but there’s so much more depth there than he lets on. Hannah, on the other hand, is strong, driven, and unapologetically herself. A successful sports media professional and a true girl’s girl, she knows exactly who she is and what she wants.
On the surface, they seem like total opposites, but their dynamic is electric. Their banter had me laughing out loud more than once, and the backstory behind how Happy got his name was pure gold and added such a heartfelt layer to his character.
The romance itself is beautifully balanced. Yes, the spice is hot, but what really stood out to me was how thoughtfully Hannah’s sexuality was written. She isn’t afraid to explore, communicate, and own her desires, and that confidence felt powerful, refreshing, and genuinely important. It added depth to the story rather than overshadowing it.
I also loved the secret trope woven throughout the book. It completely caught me off guard, and when everything finally came together, the emotional impact was so much stronger because of it. The payoff felt earned, layered, and deeply satisfying. I’ll avoid spoilers here, but trust me when I say it’s worth the ride.
Overall, Happy Ever After delivered humour, heat, heart, and characters I genuinely cared about. Whether you’re familiar with the series or jumping in fresh like I did, this is a fantastic read that left me smiling long after I turned the final page.
Thank you so much to Shann McPherson and Smuthood PR for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2026
✨ARC REVIEW✨
4.75⭐️ 4/5 🌶️
What to Expect:
🏒Hockey romance
🩵Coach's daughter
🏒Frenemies with benefits
🩵Reformed playboy
BLURB:
Two words describe Happy Slater; unserious and slutty. The second line defenseman, son of a former supermodel and a rockstar, is known for a good time and not a lot else. But sometimes appearances can be deceiving, and it’s often the ones we least expect that are hiding the biggest secrets.
Hannah Draper, daughter of New York Thunder head coach, Lance Draper, has officially had it with men. Forced to wait in the rain for an Uber that never shows, that is driven by—yep—a man, it only proves her point that all men suck.
During her time of need, the last person Hannah wants to accept help from is Happy Slater, but desperate times often lead to terrible mistakes. After an unexpected night of hate-filled passion, they part ways only to find themselves brought back together again, and again, and again. Just when Hannah thinks she’s got Happy figured out, he opens up his heart and shares his deepest secrets with her. This new side to the once insufferable member of her dad’s hockey team has her cold heart thawing and her resolve to cancel all men starts to slip. But as the unlikely pair try to navigate their foreign feelings together, ghosts from their past start to surface, threatening everything. With more than just their hearts on the line, will they be strong enough to hold on to their Happy Every After?
🏒Review🏒
Hannah and Happy are made for eachother. Against all of the norms with the team, they found a way. This books has everything you could want. The spice is spicing, literally right from the jump. Happy really does rub off on you, too. After reading best kept secret, i HAD to read this one too and im so glad i got the opportunity to arc read this because im in love with this series. Please go read it! and come back to give me allllll your thoughts 😜.
4.75⭐️ 4/5 🌶️
What to Expect:
🏒Hockey romance
🩵Coach's daughter
🏒Frenemies with benefits
🩵Reformed playboy
BLURB:
Two words describe Happy Slater; unserious and slutty. The second line defenseman, son of a former supermodel and a rockstar, is known for a good time and not a lot else. But sometimes appearances can be deceiving, and it’s often the ones we least expect that are hiding the biggest secrets.
Hannah Draper, daughter of New York Thunder head coach, Lance Draper, has officially had it with men. Forced to wait in the rain for an Uber that never shows, that is driven by—yep—a man, it only proves her point that all men suck.
During her time of need, the last person Hannah wants to accept help from is Happy Slater, but desperate times often lead to terrible mistakes. After an unexpected night of hate-filled passion, they part ways only to find themselves brought back together again, and again, and again. Just when Hannah thinks she’s got Happy figured out, he opens up his heart and shares his deepest secrets with her. This new side to the once insufferable member of her dad’s hockey team has her cold heart thawing and her resolve to cancel all men starts to slip. But as the unlikely pair try to navigate their foreign feelings together, ghosts from their past start to surface, threatening everything. With more than just their hearts on the line, will they be strong enough to hold on to their Happy Every After?
🏒Review🏒
Hannah and Happy are made for eachother. Against all of the norms with the team, they found a way. This books has everything you could want. The spice is spicing, literally right from the jump. Happy really does rub off on you, too. After reading best kept secret, i HAD to read this one too and im so glad i got the opportunity to arc read this because im in love with this series. Please go read it! and come back to give me allllll your thoughts 😜.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I DEVOURED this book. Absolutely inhaled it. Happy Ever After was funny, spicy, messy, emotional, and way deeper than I expected in the best possible way. Hockey romcoms are my weakness and this one hit every single craving 😍
Happy Slater is introduced as this unserious, slutty, walking red flag of a man and honestly? I was ready to roast him. But WOW was I wrong. The layers on this man??? The vulnerability??? The secrets??? I went from side-eyeing him to fully feral for him. He’s the perfect example of don’t judge the hot hockey boy by his reputation.
And Hannah Draper. QUEEN. Coach’s daughter, fed up with men, emotionally guarded, sharp-tongued and relatable as hell. Her “cancel all men” era was iconic and I loved how real her frustrations felt. The rain, the Uber, the bad timing—ugh, we’ve all been there. Her chemistry with Happy was instant, chaotic, and SO GOOD. Hate-filled passion that turns into something real is my catnip and this book served it hot.
Their banter had me laughing out loud, the spice was 👀🔥 (like excuse me, sir), and then Shann McPherson casually ripped my heart out by letting Happy open up. Watching Hannah’s walls come down as she sees the man behind the image? Chef’s kiss. Emotional whiplash in the best way.
The found-family vibes, the team dynamics, the pressure of being the coach’s daughter, the ghosts from the past creeping in—it all raised the stakes so perfectly. This wasn’t just a romcom, it had HEART. And when things got hard, I was genuinely stressed because I cared so much about them together.
Happy and Hannah omg I loved loved them. And Lucky too—I need more, immediately, thank you very much.
If you love spicy hockey romance, fake hate that turns into real feelings, secretly soft MMCs, and laugh-out-loud moments mixed with emotional depth… READ THIS BOOK. Happy Ever After absolutely earned its name and my five stars 💖🏒🔥
Happy Slater is introduced as this unserious, slutty, walking red flag of a man and honestly? I was ready to roast him. But WOW was I wrong. The layers on this man??? The vulnerability??? The secrets??? I went from side-eyeing him to fully feral for him. He’s the perfect example of don’t judge the hot hockey boy by his reputation.
And Hannah Draper. QUEEN. Coach’s daughter, fed up with men, emotionally guarded, sharp-tongued and relatable as hell. Her “cancel all men” era was iconic and I loved how real her frustrations felt. The rain, the Uber, the bad timing—ugh, we’ve all been there. Her chemistry with Happy was instant, chaotic, and SO GOOD. Hate-filled passion that turns into something real is my catnip and this book served it hot.
Their banter had me laughing out loud, the spice was 👀🔥 (like excuse me, sir), and then Shann McPherson casually ripped my heart out by letting Happy open up. Watching Hannah’s walls come down as she sees the man behind the image? Chef’s kiss. Emotional whiplash in the best way.
The found-family vibes, the team dynamics, the pressure of being the coach’s daughter, the ghosts from the past creeping in—it all raised the stakes so perfectly. This wasn’t just a romcom, it had HEART. And when things got hard, I was genuinely stressed because I cared so much about them together.
Happy and Hannah omg I loved loved them. And Lucky too—I need more, immediately, thank you very much.
If you love spicy hockey romance, fake hate that turns into real feelings, secretly soft MMCs, and laugh-out-loud moments mixed with emotional depth… READ THIS BOOK. Happy Ever After absolutely earned its name and my five stars 💖🏒🔥
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
♾️⭐️
🌶️3/5
I absolutely love this series, and Happy’s story was the perfect way to end it! This is how you give proper closure to one of your all-time favorite hockey series. It was sexy, funny, swoony, and tender, and even though I knew there was a secret trope involved, I did not expect it to be that trope. That surprise made the story even more perfect for me.
Happy… my man. What a man he is! Truly flawless, no notes. Once the big secret was revealed, I was completely swooning. With patience, love, and a little “luck” (IYKYK), he absolutely won Hannah over.
Hannah was a great FMC. I loved how she genuinely disliked Happy at first, but she was not blind to his appeal, so she decided to have a little fun. What she did not expect was that she could not keep her heart at bay, and I am so glad she did not try to. She became Happy’s person, his safe place, and his biggest support, which made their relationship even more meaningful.
A quick heads-up for readers: the spice hits early, around chapter three. Happy and Hannah have known each other for three years, and after some events, they decide to give in and have one night of fun that turns into many more. It is during those nights that the big trope is revealed and everything takes a sharp turn. From there, their relationship starts to deepen as they realize they mean far more to each other than they expected. So please do not let comments about the early spice deter you from picking this up. There is a solid, engaging plot that will keep you completely hooked.
I am genuinely sad that this series is over. It has easily become one of my comfort hockey reads, and I cannot recommend it enough. If you want to laugh, swoon, and maybe even shed a few tears, do not hesitate to pick up this series!
Thank you so much to Shann and The Smuthood for the ARC of this awesome book!
♾️⭐️
🌶️3/5
I absolutely love this series, and Happy’s story was the perfect way to end it! This is how you give proper closure to one of your all-time favorite hockey series. It was sexy, funny, swoony, and tender, and even though I knew there was a secret trope involved, I did not expect it to be that trope. That surprise made the story even more perfect for me.
Happy… my man. What a man he is! Truly flawless, no notes. Once the big secret was revealed, I was completely swooning. With patience, love, and a little “luck” (IYKYK), he absolutely won Hannah over.
Hannah was a great FMC. I loved how she genuinely disliked Happy at first, but she was not blind to his appeal, so she decided to have a little fun. What she did not expect was that she could not keep her heart at bay, and I am so glad she did not try to. She became Happy’s person, his safe place, and his biggest support, which made their relationship even more meaningful.
A quick heads-up for readers: the spice hits early, around chapter three. Happy and Hannah have known each other for three years, and after some events, they decide to give in and have one night of fun that turns into many more. It is during those nights that the big trope is revealed and everything takes a sharp turn. From there, their relationship starts to deepen as they realize they mean far more to each other than they expected. So please do not let comments about the early spice deter you from picking this up. There is a solid, engaging plot that will keep you completely hooked.
I am genuinely sad that this series is over. It has easily become one of my comfort hockey reads, and I cannot recommend it enough. If you want to laugh, swoon, and maybe even shed a few tears, do not hesitate to pick up this series!
Thank you so much to Shann and The Smuthood for the ARC of this awesome book!
January 14, 2026
I haven’t read the first two books, which I must remedy quickly, so I don’t know if Hannah was in them. But I met Hannah in book three, as she’s a close friend of the MMC, Logan. Their friendship initially caused some issues for Logan and Millie, but that was resolved quickly, and I loved seeing Millie and Hannah’s friendship in this one.
Hannah was an amazing character. She’s so confident and strong, and asks for what she wants. She doesn’t give a f*ck about what others think of her, and I loved that. She’s also not afraid to confront someone when needed (see punching Chris and showing up to Happy’s house for the first time).
Happy is the epitome of happiness. He is a player, for sure, but becomes a reformed playboy after meeting Hannah. He falls first and so hard. Hannah starts to fall hard for him after he opens up to her. I also love the found family vibes with these teammates, and how they immediately supported Happy once they learned his secret. I don’t want to say too much more about that to avoid spoilers.
One thing with coach’s daughter romances is keeping the secret from her dad. I liked that that wasn’t a concern really in this one. They don’t tell him straight away, but it’s more that they don’t get around to it than that they're worried about his reaction.
I thought how Hannah finally stood up to her mom was awesome and wish their relationship had been explored more. I did cackle at Hannah’s response to the seat arrangement issue at her mom’s wedding, though. I also wanted to see more of the fallout for Chris. He’s the worst.
The spice starts right at the beginning and never lets up. They are so hot for each other, and I loved that.
Overall, this was another fun and spicy hockey romance, and I’m definitely going back for books 1 & 2.
Hannah was an amazing character. She’s so confident and strong, and asks for what she wants. She doesn’t give a f*ck about what others think of her, and I loved that. She’s also not afraid to confront someone when needed (see punching Chris and showing up to Happy’s house for the first time).
Happy is the epitome of happiness. He is a player, for sure, but becomes a reformed playboy after meeting Hannah. He falls first and so hard. Hannah starts to fall hard for him after he opens up to her. I also love the found family vibes with these teammates, and how they immediately supported Happy once they learned his secret. I don’t want to say too much more about that to avoid spoilers.
One thing with coach’s daughter romances is keeping the secret from her dad. I liked that that wasn’t a concern really in this one. They don’t tell him straight away, but it’s more that they don’t get around to it than that they're worried about his reaction.
I thought how Hannah finally stood up to her mom was awesome and wish their relationship had been explored more. I did cackle at Hannah’s response to the seat arrangement issue at her mom’s wedding, though. I also wanted to see more of the fallout for Chris. He’s the worst.
The spice starts right at the beginning and never lets up. They are so hot for each other, and I loved that.
Overall, this was another fun and spicy hockey romance, and I’m definitely going back for books 1 & 2.
Review of advance copy
I absolutely loved this book! It completely pulled me out of a reading slump, and even while life was insanely busy, I made it my mission to read this as fast as possible. That alone says everything.
Happy and Hannah own my heart. From the start, I loved that they both had fire, personality, and depth that made them stand out immediately. Happy may be introduced as the team’s unserious, reformed playboy, but wow does he have layers. Watching him fall hard and fast, completely down bad for Hannah, was everything I love about hockey romances. He was sweet, spicy, swoony, and surprisingly vulnerable which made him the ultimate book boyfriend.
And Hannah Draper is a total queen! As the coach’s daughter and a fiercely independent, sharp tongued woman with her guard up, she felt so real. I loved how much of a fighter she was and how she stood up for herself even when it was messy or uncomfortable. Their chemistry was instant, chaotic, and absolutely off the charts. The frienemies with benefits dynamic paired with the super secret trope was pure magic.
One of my favorite things about this book was that the secret was completely unpredictable. I genuinely did not see it coming which made it even better. Predictable books are the worst, and this one kept me fully on my toes in the best way. The reveal added so much depth and raised the stakes without feeling forced.
The banter had me laughing out loud, the spice was so good, and then Shann McPherson hit me straight hard with all the feelings. The emotional depth, the vulnerability, and the way both characters slowly peeled back each other’s layers was beautifully done. I gasped, I laughed, and I cried.
What a perfect ending to an amazing series. I am genuinely heartbroken to say goodbye to these characters but so grateful for the journey.
Happy and Hannah own my heart. From the start, I loved that they both had fire, personality, and depth that made them stand out immediately. Happy may be introduced as the team’s unserious, reformed playboy, but wow does he have layers. Watching him fall hard and fast, completely down bad for Hannah, was everything I love about hockey romances. He was sweet, spicy, swoony, and surprisingly vulnerable which made him the ultimate book boyfriend.
And Hannah Draper is a total queen! As the coach’s daughter and a fiercely independent, sharp tongued woman with her guard up, she felt so real. I loved how much of a fighter she was and how she stood up for herself even when it was messy or uncomfortable. Their chemistry was instant, chaotic, and absolutely off the charts. The frienemies with benefits dynamic paired with the super secret trope was pure magic.
One of my favorite things about this book was that the secret was completely unpredictable. I genuinely did not see it coming which made it even better. Predictable books are the worst, and this one kept me fully on my toes in the best way. The reveal added so much depth and raised the stakes without feeling forced.
The banter had me laughing out loud, the spice was so good, and then Shann McPherson hit me straight hard with all the feelings. The emotional depth, the vulnerability, and the way both characters slowly peeled back each other’s layers was beautifully done. I gasped, I laughed, and I cried.
What a perfect ending to an amazing series. I am genuinely heartbroken to say goodbye to these characters but so grateful for the journey.
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