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No Shot : A Hockey Romance
Penn Brooks
His Focus? Hockey. Until Her.
I live in an amazing city, play for my dream team, and get paid to do what I love. I’ve been lucky so far, but now it’s clearer than ever that if I want to stay on top, something’s gotta give. No more distractions. No more women. Just focus. At least, that was the plan… until Bridgette Campbell walked in. She’s all brains, bite, and zero interest. Naturally, I’m hooked.
Bridgette Campbell
Her Plan? Perfect. Until Him.
I’ve had my life mapped out for as long as I can remember. Move away from home, graduate from university, get my MBA, and build the wildly successful future I’ve always wanted. No distractions. No detours. Definitely no hockey players. But Penn Brooks? He’s frustratingly impossible to ignore—and even harder to forget.
Dual POV
Hockey Romance
Frenemies to Lovers
Black Cat x Golden Retriever
Forced Proximity
His Focus? Hockey. Until Her.
I live in an amazing city, play for my dream team, and get paid to do what I love. I’ve been lucky so far, but now it’s clearer than ever that if I want to stay on top, something’s gotta give. No more distractions. No more women. Just focus. At least, that was the plan… until Bridgette Campbell walked in. She’s all brains, bite, and zero interest. Naturally, I’m hooked.
Bridgette Campbell
Her Plan? Perfect. Until Him.
I’ve had my life mapped out for as long as I can remember. Move away from home, graduate from university, get my MBA, and build the wildly successful future I’ve always wanted. No distractions. No detours. Definitely no hockey players. But Penn Brooks? He’s frustratingly impossible to ignore—and even harder to forget.
Dual POV
Hockey Romance
Frenemies to Lovers
Black Cat x Golden Retriever
Forced Proximity
313 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 5, 2025
60 people are currently reading
300 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
July 25, 2025
• Hockey Romance
• Golden Retriever x Black Cat
• Dual POV
• 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️½
The sarcasm and banter between these two? Chef’s kiss 🤌🏾🤌🏾
Bri is written as prepared, organized, focused, and strong. While Penn is lovable, charming, and effortlessly funny. But beneath those polished exteriors, we get a glimpse of the layers they try to hide: Bri struggles with crippling anxiety, and Penn quietly battles the belief that he’s not enough. Somehow, they fit together perfectly.. flaws and all.
The story as a whole was fun, tender, and completely charming. I can't wait to see where this universe takes us next.
I want to thank BookSirens and Katherine Elle for the ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own
• Golden Retriever x Black Cat
• Dual POV
• 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️½
The sarcasm and banter between these two? Chef’s kiss 🤌🏾🤌🏾
Bri is written as prepared, organized, focused, and strong. While Penn is lovable, charming, and effortlessly funny. But beneath those polished exteriors, we get a glimpse of the layers they try to hide: Bri struggles with crippling anxiety, and Penn quietly battles the belief that he’s not enough. Somehow, they fit together perfectly.. flaws and all.
The story as a whole was fun, tender, and completely charming. I can't wait to see where this universe takes us next.
I want to thank BookSirens and Katherine Elle for the ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own
June 22, 2025
Penn (MMC) is an NHL hockey player for the Toronto Tundra team
Bridgette, aka Bri (FMC), is a graduate student finishing her MBA degree
Penn meets Bridgette (Bri) at a bar. They don’t think they will see each other again, but end up seeing each other often. Bri's sister is married to Penn’s teammate, Scott, and Bri didn’t realize she rented the apartment next to Penn’s. How they discovered their connections to each other was unique.
Penn is interested in her, but she makes things hard for him. She wants to focus on her MBA and success. She doesn’t want to end up like her sister, who gave up her dreams for a hockey player. It felt like they were doomed from the start.
She tries to keep things casual, and he did too in the beginning. Almost losing him makes her realize her feelings, which she expressed in such a cute way. I felt like it was the first time in the book she really made an effort.
Penn and Bri work on building their relationship while he tries to stay focused on his hockey performance, which could affect his career. Meanwhile, she battles overwhelming anxiety. It felt like he was almost always putting in more effort than she was.
They overcame many challenges to build a solid relationship while pursuing their personal career goals, and to be honest, I had a hard time seeing how they would be able to have their happily ever after. The timeline between some events was unclear to me, which made it difficult for me to follow at times. The flow between events was the only reason why I gave the book ⭐⭐⭐⭐ stars. I enjoyed the story, though.
My thoughts:
~ It was really nice how he’d look out for her when she needed him most.
~ The back-and-forth between Penn and Bri was really fun.
~ Their texts to each other and to friends and family are really fun, even when the stuff they're talking about is serious topics.
Read if you like:
✔️Hockey Romance
✔️Frenemies to Lovers
✔️Black Cat x Golden Retriever
✔️Forced Proximity
✔️ Some spicy times
I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
Bridgette, aka Bri (FMC), is a graduate student finishing her MBA degree
Penn meets Bridgette (Bri) at a bar. They don’t think they will see each other again, but end up seeing each other often. Bri's sister is married to Penn’s teammate, Scott, and Bri didn’t realize she rented the apartment next to Penn’s. How they discovered their connections to each other was unique.
Penn is interested in her, but she makes things hard for him. She wants to focus on her MBA and success. She doesn’t want to end up like her sister, who gave up her dreams for a hockey player. It felt like they were doomed from the start.
She tries to keep things casual, and he did too in the beginning. Almost losing him makes her realize her feelings, which she expressed in such a cute way. I felt like it was the first time in the book she really made an effort.
Penn and Bri work on building their relationship while he tries to stay focused on his hockey performance, which could affect his career. Meanwhile, she battles overwhelming anxiety. It felt like he was almost always putting in more effort than she was.
They overcame many challenges to build a solid relationship while pursuing their personal career goals, and to be honest, I had a hard time seeing how they would be able to have their happily ever after. The timeline between some events was unclear to me, which made it difficult for me to follow at times. The flow between events was the only reason why I gave the book ⭐⭐⭐⭐ stars. I enjoyed the story, though.
My thoughts:
~ It was really nice how he’d look out for her when she needed him most.
~ The back-and-forth between Penn and Bri was really fun.
~ Their texts to each other and to friends and family are really fun, even when the stuff they're talking about is serious topics.
Read if you like:
✔️Hockey Romance
✔️Frenemies to Lovers
✔️Black Cat x Golden Retriever
✔️Forced Proximity
✔️ Some spicy times
I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
July 17, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
Perfect mixture of fluff and spice; this book was just what I needed. Swooning, giggling, and kicking my feet 😮💨😍
With the black cat fmc (Bri) and the golden retriever reformed playboy mmc (Penn), the banter was nothing short of perfection!
🌶️🌶️.5
Perfect mixture of fluff and spice; this book was just what I needed. Swooning, giggling, and kicking my feet 😮💨😍
With the black cat fmc (Bri) and the golden retriever reformed playboy mmc (Penn), the banter was nothing short of perfection!
August 3, 2025
What To Expect:
- hockey romance
- dual pov
- frenemies to lovers
- forced proximity
- black cat x golden retriever
- banter
- spicy
i am always a sucker for sports romance and specifically hockey romance. its literally one of my favorite genres. but not only do we get hockey but we also get a lot of banter between the two main characters, which is what i always want in a book. so i was a very happy camper while reading No Shot. i was hooked from the very first page.
Penn may or may not hold the key to my heart. okay okay, he definitely owns it. he is the ultimate hockey player book boyfriend and i love him so much. he is hilarious and very charming, it is impossible to not love him. Penn had me giggling and kicking my feet.
Katerine Elle did such an incredible job with this book. i was in love and obsessed with the first book in this series, fated shot. and i am just as in love and obsessed with this one too.
thank you so much book sirens for sending me a copy of this arc!!
- hockey romance
- dual pov
- frenemies to lovers
- forced proximity
- black cat x golden retriever
- banter
- spicy
i am always a sucker for sports romance and specifically hockey romance. its literally one of my favorite genres. but not only do we get hockey but we also get a lot of banter between the two main characters, which is what i always want in a book. so i was a very happy camper while reading No Shot. i was hooked from the very first page.
Penn may or may not hold the key to my heart. okay okay, he definitely owns it. he is the ultimate hockey player book boyfriend and i love him so much. he is hilarious and very charming, it is impossible to not love him. Penn had me giggling and kicking my feet.
Katerine Elle did such an incredible job with this book. i was in love and obsessed with the first book in this series, fated shot. and i am just as in love and obsessed with this one too.
thank you so much book sirens for sending me a copy of this arc!!
June 28, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice:🌶️🌶️
This was such a sweet, cheesy, and refreshing palate cleanser from the books I have read recently, and I just flew through it. Don't get me wrong I really liked it, but when I say it was cheesy I mean..really, really cheesy, but I love a golden retriever mmc who will do anything for his black cat girlfriend.
While most of the book was cheesy and lighthearted the conflicts were very deep in comparison. The anxiety and panic attacks from the fmc and the self doubt from the mmc were very believable, but they were both there for each other and lifted each other up, making a perfect team.
I really enjoyed watching Penn fall and relentlessly fight for Bri, and watching her come out of her shell to support him. In the end a sweet hockey romance.
Thank you Katherine Elle for an ARC of this book!
🤍dual pov
🤍hockey romance
🤍golden retriever x black cat
🤍forced proximity
🤍frenemies to lovers
Spice:🌶️🌶️
This was such a sweet, cheesy, and refreshing palate cleanser from the books I have read recently, and I just flew through it. Don't get me wrong I really liked it, but when I say it was cheesy I mean..really, really cheesy, but I love a golden retriever mmc who will do anything for his black cat girlfriend.
While most of the book was cheesy and lighthearted the conflicts were very deep in comparison. The anxiety and panic attacks from the fmc and the self doubt from the mmc were very believable, but they were both there for each other and lifted each other up, making a perfect team.
I really enjoyed watching Penn fall and relentlessly fight for Bri, and watching her come out of her shell to support him. In the end a sweet hockey romance.
Thank you Katherine Elle for an ARC of this book!
🤍dual pov
🤍hockey romance
🤍golden retriever x black cat
🤍forced proximity
🤍frenemies to lovers
June 12, 2025
If I had a Penn in my life, I would be one very happy lady.
His boyish charm and energy, hiding his insecurities about himself is endearing, then add in his masterful bedroom persona, well swoon!
He wasn't looking for a relationship and neither was Bri, yet her fiesty, sarcastic tongue and drive to better herself, had him falling for her.
The fact that Penn saw beneath Bri's front to the world and still wanted her, had Bri finally accepting herself and him.
I love the way that both characters didn't think they were good enough, or that they deserved the others love yet were so supportive of each other.
Great spice, both Penn and Bri are not afraid to take what they want in the bedroom.
Definitely recommend.
His boyish charm and energy, hiding his insecurities about himself is endearing, then add in his masterful bedroom persona, well swoon!
He wasn't looking for a relationship and neither was Bri, yet her fiesty, sarcastic tongue and drive to better herself, had him falling for her.
The fact that Penn saw beneath Bri's front to the world and still wanted her, had Bri finally accepting herself and him.
I love the way that both characters didn't think they were good enough, or that they deserved the others love yet were so supportive of each other.
Great spice, both Penn and Bri are not afraid to take what they want in the bedroom.
Definitely recommend.
July 30, 2025
Bri is focused on earning her MBA, having a successful career is more important than a relationship. When she meets Penn in a bar she doesn't expect to see him again. But that is the opposite he seems to keep turning up. Then she finds she's only rented the apartment next to him. Penn is a hockey player when he meets Bri he's more than interested in her. The chemistry between them is obvious, except Bri tries to keep things casual. Can she have a career and be involved with a hockey player. I enjoyed the way Bri finally realised what she could lose and you finally saw her make any effort for Penn
June 12, 2025
To say when you just fall in love with the characters. As soon as I started reading Penns story. it was instant love with his character and character development. Soup iykyk absolutely loves a strong fmc, and i loved seeing her side and development in the story as well. Hers was so relatable. The book had me kicking, screaming, laughing, and crying with them. I'm so glad we got to see the rest of the gang in this book as well. I loved every minute of this read.
July 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.9
🌶️🌶️🌶️
- Hockey Romance
- Forced Proximity
- Black cat X golden retriever
- Banter
This book was so fantastic! I loved everything about these characters and honestly could not put it down! I cannot wait for book 3!!!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
- Hockey Romance
- Forced Proximity
- Black cat X golden retriever
- Banter
This book was so fantastic! I loved everything about these characters and honestly could not put it down! I cannot wait for book 3!!!
September 30, 2025
Ate it up, cute easy spicy read!
Just what I needed to prevent the slump I was heading towards!!
The anxiety representation was done so well too!
Just what I needed to prevent the slump I was heading towards!!
The anxiety representation was done so well too!
June 10, 2025
I beta read this for Katherine and the people aren't ready... Penn and Bri are just everything my fave in the series she did sunshine x grumpy soooo well and Penn is just ✨✨ The things both of them deal with and help each other with was also done super well
August 6, 2025
Katherine Elle and BookSiren,
Thank You Thank You and Thank You!!! I had the amazing opportunity to be an Arc Reader for No Shot and it was just as Great as Fated Shot and just a little better!! I just love the writing styles in both these books. The Story line kept me flipping pages and the characters always leave me wanting more of them. I was reading this book around my grandma visiting and she kept mentioning that I was just gitty and happy reading it. I don’t do spoilers as I know the book comes out today for some but you will not be disappointed it was a 5⭐️.
Bri is an amazing FMC she showed so much strength and just relatability as a strong power house of a woman it reminded me a lot of myself who is also in school building for her future. I think thats why I was just so gitty. And Penn kept me on my toes between his goofiness, immaturity at times and Love for her and the game I Just fell for him and hard. The relationship between the two and the love they found for each other but also the independence and strength that each of them had just made the story.
I am so sad to say that I have to wait for the next book but I will say I will be doing a re-read because I honestly could not put this book down. The relatability and the love between the two characters just left me crying with happy tears. I want readers who read Katherines stories to just know that her books allow you to wind down and just feel the story your reading its almost as if I am living in the book as a read and sometimes thats all I can ask for. So if your wondering weather to give this Hockey Romance a try I will without a doubt say yess!! 10/10
Thank You Thank You and Thank You!!! I had the amazing opportunity to be an Arc Reader for No Shot and it was just as Great as Fated Shot and just a little better!! I just love the writing styles in both these books. The Story line kept me flipping pages and the characters always leave me wanting more of them. I was reading this book around my grandma visiting and she kept mentioning that I was just gitty and happy reading it. I don’t do spoilers as I know the book comes out today for some but you will not be disappointed it was a 5⭐️.
Bri is an amazing FMC she showed so much strength and just relatability as a strong power house of a woman it reminded me a lot of myself who is also in school building for her future. I think thats why I was just so gitty. And Penn kept me on my toes between his goofiness, immaturity at times and Love for her and the game I Just fell for him and hard. The relationship between the two and the love they found for each other but also the independence and strength that each of them had just made the story.
I am so sad to say that I have to wait for the next book but I will say I will be doing a re-read because I honestly could not put this book down. The relatability and the love between the two characters just left me crying with happy tears. I want readers who read Katherines stories to just know that her books allow you to wind down and just feel the story your reading its almost as if I am living in the book as a read and sometimes thats all I can ask for. So if your wondering weather to give this Hockey Romance a try I will without a doubt say yess!! 10/10
June 18, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
If you’re a sucker for a professional hockey romance with the perfect blend of heart, heat, and humor, No Shot needs to be on your radar.
This book had me hooked from the first page with its reverse grumpy sunshine dynamic (yes, it’s the guy who’s the golden retriever this time), forced proximity, and swoony sports romance vibes. Penn completely stole my heart, he’s charming, hilarious, and just the right kind of vulnerable. His fear of being traded isn’t just about the team, it’s about possibly losing Bri, and the way he wears his heart on his sleeve? Instant book boyfriend status.
Bri, on the other hand, is fierce and guarded. She believes that falling in love might mean sacrificing the dreams she’s worked so hard for, and watching her navigate that internal struggle was emotional and so relatable.
The chemistry between them was undeniable, and the tension? Chef’s kiss. 🌶️🌶️🌶️ in all the right ways, enough steam to keep things interesting without overshadowing the emotional growth of the characters.
Katherine Elle did a great job balancing fun, flirty banter with deeper moments of vulnerability, and I truly loved this book. I cannot wait to read which character is next!
Highly recommend for fans of:
🏒 Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
🏠 Forced Proximity
❤️ Emotionally guarded heroines + cinnamon roll heroes
🔥 Medium spice with real emotional depth
ARC REVIEW
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
If you’re a sucker for a professional hockey romance with the perfect blend of heart, heat, and humor, No Shot needs to be on your radar.
This book had me hooked from the first page with its reverse grumpy sunshine dynamic (yes, it’s the guy who’s the golden retriever this time), forced proximity, and swoony sports romance vibes. Penn completely stole my heart, he’s charming, hilarious, and just the right kind of vulnerable. His fear of being traded isn’t just about the team, it’s about possibly losing Bri, and the way he wears his heart on his sleeve? Instant book boyfriend status.
Bri, on the other hand, is fierce and guarded. She believes that falling in love might mean sacrificing the dreams she’s worked so hard for, and watching her navigate that internal struggle was emotional and so relatable.
The chemistry between them was undeniable, and the tension? Chef’s kiss. 🌶️🌶️🌶️ in all the right ways, enough steam to keep things interesting without overshadowing the emotional growth of the characters.
Katherine Elle did a great job balancing fun, flirty banter with deeper moments of vulnerability, and I truly loved this book. I cannot wait to read which character is next!
Highly recommend for fans of:
🏒 Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
🏠 Forced Proximity
❤️ Emotionally guarded heroines + cinnamon roll heroes
🔥 Medium spice with real emotional depth
ARC REVIEW
July 18, 2025
I had the opportunity to read No Shot by Katherine Elle early, and let me just say… this book delivered. It’s a 5-star, hockey romance I already know I’ll reread again and again.
From the very first chapter, Bri and Penn felt so real. Bri is anxious, over-plans everything, and is laser-focused on school so she can build the future she wants—no distractions allowed. And Penn? Classic single hockey guy energy—goofy, a little immature, but underneath it all, someone trying hard to find his focus and level up his game.
Their banter? Chef’s kiss. The dynamic between them had me grinning, swooning, and completely hooked. I especially loved the character growth—it didn’t feel rushed or surface-level, it felt earned. And the spice? I’d say around a 3.5, just enough to raise your heartbeat without overshadowing the story.
The tone is mostly lighthearted but layered with emotional depth in all the right places. Even though this is book 2 in the Toronto Tundra series, it can definitely be read as a standalone—but reading book 1 will give you a little extra insight into the other characters.
As someone who is basically Bri on a bad day, I felt so seen, and that made the emotional moments hit even harder. This was such a refreshing, relatable, and genuinely fun read. I highly recommend this book!
From the very first chapter, Bri and Penn felt so real. Bri is anxious, over-plans everything, and is laser-focused on school so she can build the future she wants—no distractions allowed. And Penn? Classic single hockey guy energy—goofy, a little immature, but underneath it all, someone trying hard to find his focus and level up his game.
Their banter? Chef’s kiss. The dynamic between them had me grinning, swooning, and completely hooked. I especially loved the character growth—it didn’t feel rushed or surface-level, it felt earned. And the spice? I’d say around a 3.5, just enough to raise your heartbeat without overshadowing the story.
The tone is mostly lighthearted but layered with emotional depth in all the right places. Even though this is book 2 in the Toronto Tundra series, it can definitely be read as a standalone—but reading book 1 will give you a little extra insight into the other characters.
As someone who is basically Bri on a bad day, I felt so seen, and that made the emotional moments hit even harder. This was such a refreshing, relatable, and genuinely fun read. I highly recommend this book!
August 28, 2025
Katherine FREAKING Elle!!!
You did it again! You wrapped me into the world of hockey and gave me exactly what I wanted!!!
The FMC is a black cat and I totally dig her energy. She knows her worth and isn’t afraid of it.
The MMC is suchhh a golden retriever and gosh I love that. Sometimes you just need to know the guy is all about her in a cute lovey way and that’s exactly what I needed from Penn.
When I read the first book I immediately messaged Katherine and asked when we’re getting Penns story. Ahhh It was so freaking good!
Okay so absolutely loved it. She has such a nice balance between character development and progression through the story.
Not to mention the issues these two deal with are real and I feel like everyone can relate to them.
Also sometimes authors can loose the plot when writing sports romance books where the sports aren’t really mentioned or they go into to much. This was literally a perfect blend. Not to much and not to little.
As my truest self I can’t do anything but ask …
Is Reid next???? Bc ugh REID! He’s intrigued me since book one bahahaha.
10/10 would recommend if you like cute banter, perfect blend of everything you need in a love story and a little hockey to top it off 🫠😍
You did it again! You wrapped me into the world of hockey and gave me exactly what I wanted!!!
The FMC is a black cat and I totally dig her energy. She knows her worth and isn’t afraid of it.
The MMC is suchhh a golden retriever and gosh I love that. Sometimes you just need to know the guy is all about her in a cute lovey way and that’s exactly what I needed from Penn.
When I read the first book I immediately messaged Katherine and asked when we’re getting Penns story. Ahhh It was so freaking good!
Okay so absolutely loved it. She has such a nice balance between character development and progression through the story.
Not to mention the issues these two deal with are real and I feel like everyone can relate to them.
Also sometimes authors can loose the plot when writing sports romance books where the sports aren’t really mentioned or they go into to much. This was literally a perfect blend. Not to much and not to little.
As my truest self I can’t do anything but ask …
Is Reid next???? Bc ugh REID! He’s intrigued me since book one bahahaha.
10/10 would recommend if you like cute banter, perfect blend of everything you need in a love story and a little hockey to top it off 🫠😍
June 21, 2025
First Katherine Elle has done it again! I adored her debut novel Fated Shot and No Shot is just chefs kiss!
I loved the black cat FMC Bri - she was written as a strong, sarcastic, and incredibly witty character who took care of herself.
I also loved Penn the golden retriever MMC - he was written as a wildly loveable, caring and funny character who cares about his people.
I loved how the story wove around the feelings of being erased if you become a spouse of a famous person with a career. Katherine was able to tell Bri’s story without selling her out. Bri was pushing against the patriarchal stereotypes of being with someone and losing who you are as you enter into a relationship.
The only reason it isn’t a five star read for me is that the end seemed like it was a bit rushed it seemed to end abruptly but I think it might have just been me wanting MORE of their story.
If you’re looking for an enemies to lovers, spicy hockey romance with witty banter and a strong black cat x goofy loveable golden retriever-this is the book for you!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I loved the black cat FMC Bri - she was written as a strong, sarcastic, and incredibly witty character who took care of herself.
I also loved Penn the golden retriever MMC - he was written as a wildly loveable, caring and funny character who cares about his people.
I loved how the story wove around the feelings of being erased if you become a spouse of a famous person with a career. Katherine was able to tell Bri’s story without selling her out. Bri was pushing against the patriarchal stereotypes of being with someone and losing who you are as you enter into a relationship.
The only reason it isn’t a five star read for me is that the end seemed like it was a bit rushed it seemed to end abruptly but I think it might have just been me wanting MORE of their story.
If you’re looking for an enemies to lovers, spicy hockey romance with witty banter and a strong black cat x goofy loveable golden retriever-this is the book for you!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
July 14, 2025
I had the absolute pleasure of reading the ARC of this incredible romance, and let me tell you, I loved every second of it. From the very first chapter, I was hooked.
Penn is the definition of a lovable golden retriever. He's charming, loyal, and impossible not to adore. And Bri? She’s a total powerhouse. Fiercely independent, strong-willed, and smart, she can more than fend for herself, which makes watching their slow-burn romance unfold all the more satisfying. The tension, the build-up, the chemistry, it all keeps you right on the edge of your seat, rooting for them to finally fall in love.
There were moments so cute they made me want to kick my feet like a teenager with a crush. The kind of scenes that make your heart flutter and leave you smiling like an idiot.
As someone from Ontario, I also really appreciated the subtle nods to the Toronto Maple Leafs and the familiar Canadian setting.
This book is a solid 10/10 and the spice is chef's kiss. I’d recommend it to anyone who loves a heartfelt, slow-burn romance with characters that stay with you long after the last page. And honestly? I WOULD REREAD THIS BOOK. It’s just that good.
Penn is the definition of a lovable golden retriever. He's charming, loyal, and impossible not to adore. And Bri? She’s a total powerhouse. Fiercely independent, strong-willed, and smart, she can more than fend for herself, which makes watching their slow-burn romance unfold all the more satisfying. The tension, the build-up, the chemistry, it all keeps you right on the edge of your seat, rooting for them to finally fall in love.
There were moments so cute they made me want to kick my feet like a teenager with a crush. The kind of scenes that make your heart flutter and leave you smiling like an idiot.
As someone from Ontario, I also really appreciated the subtle nods to the Toronto Maple Leafs and the familiar Canadian setting.
This book is a solid 10/10 and the spice is chef's kiss. I’d recommend it to anyone who loves a heartfelt, slow-burn romance with characters that stay with you long after the last page. And honestly? I WOULD REREAD THIS BOOK. It’s just that good.
August 14, 2025
ARC Review
*Spoliers*
A cute hockey romance with fun banter that you can’t get enough of!
Penn and Bri are fun and know how to make each other crazy in all the good ways. Penn was smitten with Bri right away, and Bri fell when she wasn’t expecting it. Bri fought her feelings so much while Penn leaned into his, but made sure he didn’t push.
Penn showed up for Bri when her anxiety took over. He even made sure that Mia started making cookies that Bri could eat because she is allergic to dairy. He wanted to make sure she could enjoy something he loves, without her getting sick. One of the cutest and heart-squeezing moments was when Penn was so upset and sad that he was singing songs to his friend's cat, Bean, about Bri while eating ice cream with a cookie. He fell hard and fast.
I enjoyed their story, it made me laugh, smile and cry a little. The closeness of the characters was fun to read. Sometimes Bri was a little too mean or aggressive, but anxiety can make things harder. More time between Penn and his best friend, Jack, would have been fun.
Penn and Bri are adorable!
*Spoliers*
A cute hockey romance with fun banter that you can’t get enough of!
Penn and Bri are fun and know how to make each other crazy in all the good ways. Penn was smitten with Bri right away, and Bri fell when she wasn’t expecting it. Bri fought her feelings so much while Penn leaned into his, but made sure he didn’t push.
Penn showed up for Bri when her anxiety took over. He even made sure that Mia started making cookies that Bri could eat because she is allergic to dairy. He wanted to make sure she could enjoy something he loves, without her getting sick. One of the cutest and heart-squeezing moments was when Penn was so upset and sad that he was singing songs to his friend's cat, Bean, about Bri while eating ice cream with a cookie. He fell hard and fast.
I enjoyed their story, it made me laugh, smile and cry a little. The closeness of the characters was fun to read. Sometimes Bri was a little too mean or aggressive, but anxiety can make things harder. More time between Penn and his best friend, Jack, would have been fun.
Penn and Bri are adorable!
September 7, 2025
No Shot, The Toronto Tundra Series, Book 2)
Katherine Elle
Penn ❤️ Bri
⭐⭐⭐⭐🌶️🌶️
Forced Proximity
Hockey Romance
Slow Burn
Frenemies to Lovers
Mental Health rep
Penn was the loveable, little brother, silly hockey teammate of Jack in Book 1, Fates Shot. And Bri is the sister of Cami, who we met at the end of Book 1.
Bri was an awesome character! I loved her sass and strong personality. Penn's goofy, cinnamon roll self was the perfect compliment to her more serious nature. I loved seeing her give into her feelings for Penn, and seeing his joy as she helped him mature in areas of his life. The author does an excellent job of showcasing how anxiety/panic attacks can manifest, and I actually think it made Bri even stronger FMC. The plot mainly focuses on the development of their relationship, there's no major twists or drama; for me, it was a really enjoyable story with spices characters from Book 1 and would definitely be a good one to read if you've just finished something quite heavy.
I loved this book - already can't wait for the next one in the series! If you like a hockey romance with a smattering of spice, this should be on your TBR.
Katherine Elle
Penn ❤️ Bri
⭐⭐⭐⭐🌶️🌶️
Forced Proximity
Hockey Romance
Slow Burn
Frenemies to Lovers
Mental Health rep
Penn was the loveable, little brother, silly hockey teammate of Jack in Book 1, Fates Shot. And Bri is the sister of Cami, who we met at the end of Book 1.
Bri was an awesome character! I loved her sass and strong personality. Penn's goofy, cinnamon roll self was the perfect compliment to her more serious nature. I loved seeing her give into her feelings for Penn, and seeing his joy as she helped him mature in areas of his life. The author does an excellent job of showcasing how anxiety/panic attacks can manifest, and I actually think it made Bri even stronger FMC. The plot mainly focuses on the development of their relationship, there's no major twists or drama; for me, it was a really enjoyable story with spices characters from Book 1 and would definitely be a good one to read if you've just finished something quite heavy.
I loved this book - already can't wait for the next one in the series! If you like a hockey romance with a smattering of spice, this should be on your TBR.
July 19, 2025
First of all, I wanted to say thank you to BookSiren for sending me this ARC and to the author Katherine Elle for accepting my ARC request. I really appreciate it.
I truly enjoyed reading No Shot and loved every bit of it. I also loved the chemistry between Penn and Bridgette, including their cute banter and love story! Penn and Bridgette seem like they were made for each other, and I loved how Penn took care of Bridgette and was head over heels in love with her. That made me so happy and smile a lot. I was rooting for them till the end.
Katherine Elle's debut book Fated Shot was my first ever sports romance/ hockey romance book, and it is the first book of No Shot. Fated Shot got me into sports romance or hockey romance because I didn't read or like sports romances before I came across Fated Shot.
The author did an amazing job writing this book and had me craving for more. I honestly couldn't put this book down since I was excited as I was reading it and wanted to know what's gonna happen next.
Lastly, I loved that the book had a happy ending and am kinda sad that it's over.
I truly enjoyed reading No Shot and loved every bit of it. I also loved the chemistry between Penn and Bridgette, including their cute banter and love story! Penn and Bridgette seem like they were made for each other, and I loved how Penn took care of Bridgette and was head over heels in love with her. That made me so happy and smile a lot. I was rooting for them till the end.
Katherine Elle's debut book Fated Shot was my first ever sports romance/ hockey romance book, and it is the first book of No Shot. Fated Shot got me into sports romance or hockey romance because I didn't read or like sports romances before I came across Fated Shot.
The author did an amazing job writing this book and had me craving for more. I honestly couldn't put this book down since I was excited as I was reading it and wanted to know what's gonna happen next.
Lastly, I loved that the book had a happy ending and am kinda sad that it's over.
August 7, 2025
@TrishSparklerReads Bookstagram:
“No Shot” by Katherine Elle
Series: Toronto Tundra Book 2 (Standalone in an interconnected series)
Genre: Hockey Romance
Rating:5⭐️
Spice: 4🌶️
Darkness:0.5🩶
POV: Dual
Highlights:
🩷NHL Hockey Star MMC
🩷Frenemies to Lovers
🩷Forced Proximity
🩷Black Cat/Golden Retriever
🩷He Falls First
🩷Anxiety Rep
Thoughts:
This was an absolutely amazing Canadian Hockey Romance. Penn was even more adorable than I thought he would be and Bri was a cute grumpy Gus. I loved the banter between them- it was witty, funny and obvious they had the hots for each other from the beginning. I spent some time in tears over their relationship troubles- I love when the emotions from a book absolutely wreck you. This romance gave me a glowing book hangover, I’m totally loving this series.
🛑Please read all the author warnings as the themes and events could be triggering. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
“No Shot” by Katherine Elle
Series: Toronto Tundra Book 2 (Standalone in an interconnected series)
Genre: Hockey Romance
Rating:5⭐️
Spice: 4🌶️
Darkness:0.5🩶
POV: Dual
Highlights:
🩷NHL Hockey Star MMC
🩷Frenemies to Lovers
🩷Forced Proximity
🩷Black Cat/Golden Retriever
🩷He Falls First
🩷Anxiety Rep
Thoughts:
This was an absolutely amazing Canadian Hockey Romance. Penn was even more adorable than I thought he would be and Bri was a cute grumpy Gus. I loved the banter between them- it was witty, funny and obvious they had the hots for each other from the beginning. I spent some time in tears over their relationship troubles- I love when the emotions from a book absolutely wreck you. This romance gave me a glowing book hangover, I’m totally loving this series.
🛑Please read all the author warnings as the themes and events could be triggering. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 12, 2025
4.75⭐️
Okay besties… I knew I was going to love this because Penn already owned my heart in the first book, but somehow this one still hit me harder than I expected.
Bri absolutely stole the show for me. I didn’t think I’d connect with a FMC more than Mia, but Bri had me in shambles. The way her breakdown over exam stress was written—😭😭😭 I was sobbing. And Penn stepping in to support her?? I was ruined in the best way.
What I loved most was how Penn never tried to change her. He understood that uni and her career would always come first and he respected that. We stan an independent queen and a man who celebrates it. 🙌
On top of that, Penn’s own struggles—trying to find his place on the team, feeling like he was losing his best friend—made his connection with Bri even more powerful. She came into his life exactly when he needed her, and the way they balanced each other out?? Complete opposites, yet perfect together. The chemistry was everything.
If you loved Penn before, this book will make you fall for him even harder. And Bri? She’s going to steal your heart too.
Okay besties… I knew I was going to love this because Penn already owned my heart in the first book, but somehow this one still hit me harder than I expected.
Bri absolutely stole the show for me. I didn’t think I’d connect with a FMC more than Mia, but Bri had me in shambles. The way her breakdown over exam stress was written—😭😭😭 I was sobbing. And Penn stepping in to support her?? I was ruined in the best way.
What I loved most was how Penn never tried to change her. He understood that uni and her career would always come first and he respected that. We stan an independent queen and a man who celebrates it. 🙌
On top of that, Penn’s own struggles—trying to find his place on the team, feeling like he was losing his best friend—made his connection with Bri even more powerful. She came into his life exactly when he needed her, and the way they balanced each other out?? Complete opposites, yet perfect together. The chemistry was everything.
If you loved Penn before, this book will make you fall for him even harder. And Bri? She’s going to steal your heart too.
June 13, 2025
This book is worth all the stars but I guess the five it allows me to assign it will be enough. Penn would be so disappointed if I didn’t clarify it was worth infinite stars. I don’t do spoilers but I will warn if you haven’t read Fated Shot before this one you’re making a mistake.
Katherine’s ability to create beautiful relationships between the most unlikely of duos is admirable. I knew I would love Penn but I fell harder and faster for him than I could ever expect. Bri is a strong and relatable female in a world trying so hard to keep women from what they have worked so hard for. Gifting her the love Penn has was the most refreshing thing I have read in some time. Love is dedication, sacrifice, and worth the work. This story is a testament to all of that, while simultaneously being fun, heart warming, and is sprinkled with spice that will have you blushing and your toes curling.
Katherine’s ability to create beautiful relationships between the most unlikely of duos is admirable. I knew I would love Penn but I fell harder and faster for him than I could ever expect. Bri is a strong and relatable female in a world trying so hard to keep women from what they have worked so hard for. Gifting her the love Penn has was the most refreshing thing I have read in some time. Love is dedication, sacrifice, and worth the work. This story is a testament to all of that, while simultaneously being fun, heart warming, and is sprinkled with spice that will have you blushing and your toes curling.
June 26, 2025
I loved the banter between these two characters! Penn is the perfect golden retriever to Bridget's black cat personality. Penn and Bridget first meet in a bar where shes uninterested in getting to know any men and Penn just so happened to be there and starting his journey of celibacy to focus more on his professional hockey career. Bri and Penn keep running into each other first because she is his new neighbor and because Bri's older sister is married to Penn's team captain. I loved how their relationship developed slowly and both characters showed growth by stepping out of their comfort zones with each other while still being able to maintain each others' dreams and plans. This is a happily ever after, but not without a little drama. It was overall a good read to me and I had a good time reading it.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 3, 2025
Perfect for fans of hockey romance, reverse Grumpy/Sunshine and forced proximity with a bit of spice thrown in for luck!
Book 2 in the Toronto Tundra series is here!
I loved the reverse grumpy/sunshine dynamic (he’s the golden retriever!), forced proximity, and swoony vibes right from the start. Hockey player MMC Penn is funny and vulnerable, his fear of being traded is as much about losing FMC Bri as it is the team.
Bri is fierce and guarded and definitely the grumpy part of the grumpy x sunshine trope in book 2.
Neither of them are looking for a relationship with Penn focusing on his hockey career and Bri not wanting to give hers up for someone in the profession.
Forced proximity keeps them together despite challenges along the way, I loved the found family feel in this book it's such a warm hug!
I lalso oved that it was the right amount of spice especially with flirty banter and cute moments
Thanks to Booksirens and Katherine Elle for the ARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
Follow me on TikTok for more 🩷 Laced in Lit... 🎀 Booktok
Book 2 in the Toronto Tundra series is here!
I loved the reverse grumpy/sunshine dynamic (he’s the golden retriever!), forced proximity, and swoony vibes right from the start. Hockey player MMC Penn is funny and vulnerable, his fear of being traded is as much about losing FMC Bri as it is the team.
Bri is fierce and guarded and definitely the grumpy part of the grumpy x sunshine trope in book 2.
Neither of them are looking for a relationship with Penn focusing on his hockey career and Bri not wanting to give hers up for someone in the profession.
Forced proximity keeps them together despite challenges along the way, I loved the found family feel in this book it's such a warm hug!
I lalso oved that it was the right amount of spice especially with flirty banter and cute moments
Thanks to Booksirens and Katherine Elle for the ARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
Follow me on TikTok for more 🩷 Laced in Lit... 🎀 Booktok
July 31, 2025
This is my first book from this author and I absolutely loved it. Sports romance novels are my favorite books to read, and because of this I have come across many new and wonderful authors. I really enjoyed the writing style, but it was hands down the characters and how well they were written that I enjoyed the most in this story.
Penn had me laughing from start to finish. I also enjoyed his vulnerability as well. This is mainly due to how he views himself as a hockey player, because he is super confident when it comes to Bri. She was definitely the ying to his yang. It took her a while to get on the same page, but when she does she was all in. That’s not to say there were no hiccups after that, but it just made their relationship more believable to me.
I will definitely be looking out for reading more books from this author in the future.
Penn had me laughing from start to finish. I also enjoyed his vulnerability as well. This is mainly due to how he views himself as a hockey player, because he is super confident when it comes to Bri. She was definitely the ying to his yang. It took her a while to get on the same page, but when she does she was all in. That’s not to say there were no hiccups after that, but it just made their relationship more believable to me.
I will definitely be looking out for reading more books from this author in the future.
August 2, 2025
*A big thanks to Katherine Elle and Booksirens for providing me with an ARC of this book; this in no way affects my honest review*
I picked up No Shot thinking I’d read a few chapters before bed… and ended up staying up way too late to finish it. Totally worth it.
Penn Brooks is your classic, intense, broody hockey guy who’s sworn off distractions until she shows up and turns his world upside down. Their chemistry was great, and I loved watching his walls come down little by little. The banter was fun, the emotional moments hit hard, and the hockey scenes were well done and not just shoved in the background like in some sports romances
Katherine Elle nailed it with this one. It’s the perfect mix of romance, tension, and heart.
If you like sports romances with real depth and a swoony lead, definitely give this a shot.
I picked up No Shot thinking I’d read a few chapters before bed… and ended up staying up way too late to finish it. Totally worth it.
Penn Brooks is your classic, intense, broody hockey guy who’s sworn off distractions until she shows up and turns his world upside down. Their chemistry was great, and I loved watching his walls come down little by little. The banter was fun, the emotional moments hit hard, and the hockey scenes were well done and not just shoved in the background like in some sports romances
Katherine Elle nailed it with this one. It’s the perfect mix of romance, tension, and heart.
If you like sports romances with real depth and a swoony lead, definitely give this a shot.
August 9, 2025
4.5* - Rounded up to 5...
Penn and Bri's story hits such a sweet spot. Penn is such a sweetheart, and I love the man he becomes once he moves past his player phase. And Bri - such a boss babe, who finally accepts that being a boss babe doesn't mean she has to sacrifice or ignore her mental health for the sake of looking strong to the world.
The spice is fabulous, the banter and sass is fun. The love between them grows so beautifully, and so sweetly. I loved their acceptance of each other, and how they quietly support each other and encourage each other to grow stronger and work through each of their weaknesses.
I love the interactions with Scott and Cami, and Jack and Mia, as well as the rest of Penn's team.
Overall, a truly fun read…
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Penn and Bri's story hits such a sweet spot. Penn is such a sweetheart, and I love the man he becomes once he moves past his player phase. And Bri - such a boss babe, who finally accepts that being a boss babe doesn't mean she has to sacrifice or ignore her mental health for the sake of looking strong to the world.
The spice is fabulous, the banter and sass is fun. The love between them grows so beautifully, and so sweetly. I loved their acceptance of each other, and how they quietly support each other and encourage each other to grow stronger and work through each of their weaknesses.
I love the interactions with Scott and Cami, and Jack and Mia, as well as the rest of Penn's team.
Overall, a truly fun read…
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 16, 2025
Brooksy (Penn) and Soup (Bridgette) quickly stole my heart in the second book of the Toronto Tundra Series. I am simply obsessed with their story.
He falls first, She falls harder, in the best way possible. She's super serious, organized, and polished, while he's sweet, funny, and lovable. They are both there for each other when they need them the most. I cannot recommend this book, or Katherine more!
Some of my Favorite Quotes:
- “In your dreams, puck-boy”
- “F**k being friends”
- “Oh my little Soup... I’m going to make you fall in love with me.”
- “Yeah. D-*-*-k-e-r-y. Noun. Similar to F**ckery, except reserved for scenarios where a d**k is in full form. Use it in a sentence? Well, of course, glad you asked.”
I received an Arc copy via Book Sirens, this is my honest review, and my opinions alone.
He falls first, She falls harder, in the best way possible. She's super serious, organized, and polished, while he's sweet, funny, and lovable. They are both there for each other when they need them the most. I cannot recommend this book, or Katherine more!
Some of my Favorite Quotes:
- “In your dreams, puck-boy”
- “F**k being friends”
- “Oh my little Soup... I’m going to make you fall in love with me.”
- “Yeah. D-*-*-k-e-r-y. Noun. Similar to F**ckery, except reserved for scenarios where a d**k is in full form. Use it in a sentence? Well, of course, glad you asked.”
I received an Arc copy via Book Sirens, this is my honest review, and my opinions alone.
June 29, 2025
The way I am obsessed with Katherine’s books is insane. I love Fated Shot & I can honestly say that No Shot took its number one spot. This is my favorite hockey romance I’ve ever read!!
If you’re into hockey, hilarious banter, reverse grumpy/sunshine, and frenemies to lovers then you’ll love this!
Book 2 in the Toronto Tundra series delivers on every single trope.
The characters were so lovable & relatable - we’ve got Penn, our golden retriever, goofball NHL player, and Bri, our sassy, black cat energy, new next door neighbor. Their banter? Top tier. The spice? Absolutely there. I found Bri to be the most relatable FMC I have ever read & she had me laughing out loud so much!
🏒hockey romance
🏒frenemies to lovers
🏒forced proximity
🏒reverse grumpy/sunshine
What’s not to love?
If you’re into hockey, hilarious banter, reverse grumpy/sunshine, and frenemies to lovers then you’ll love this!
Book 2 in the Toronto Tundra series delivers on every single trope.
The characters were so lovable & relatable - we’ve got Penn, our golden retriever, goofball NHL player, and Bri, our sassy, black cat energy, new next door neighbor. Their banter? Top tier. The spice? Absolutely there. I found Bri to be the most relatable FMC I have ever read & she had me laughing out loud so much!
🏒hockey romance
🏒frenemies to lovers
🏒forced proximity
🏒reverse grumpy/sunshine
What’s not to love?
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