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Dirty Puckers #1
The Diamond Puck-Up
A brooding hockey enforcer and a spirited jewelry designer find love—and trouble—when a stolen ring brings them together in this steamy romance from Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author Lauren Landish.
NHL enforcer Griffin Mahoney has spent years protecting his team on the ice—and his heart off it. The one woman who makes his stone-cold exterior melt? His best friend’s sister, Penny Lee. But when a stolen ring entangles her with the Mob, Griffin’s protective instincts override his promise to stay away.
As a custom jewelry designer, Penny transforms family heirlooms into modern treasures. She’s always thought her brother’s best friend was grumpier than a bear with a hangover—until she discovers the brooding hockey player’s hidden soft side. Their undeniable chemistry catches them both off guard, even as danger circles closer.
With Stanley Cup playoffs looming, Mob threats escalating, and her overprotective brother ready to cross-check them both into the next season, Griffin and Penny’s path to happiness is anything but smooth. Together they’ll discover that true love, like diamonds, can withstand any pressure—and shine even brighter for it.
NHL enforcer Griffin Mahoney has spent years protecting his team on the ice—and his heart off it. The one woman who makes his stone-cold exterior melt? His best friend’s sister, Penny Lee. But when a stolen ring entangles her with the Mob, Griffin’s protective instincts override his promise to stay away.
As a custom jewelry designer, Penny transforms family heirlooms into modern treasures. She’s always thought her brother’s best friend was grumpier than a bear with a hangover—until she discovers the brooding hockey player’s hidden soft side. Their undeniable chemistry catches them both off guard, even as danger circles closer.
With Stanley Cup playoffs looming, Mob threats escalating, and her overprotective brother ready to cross-check them both into the next season, Griffin and Penny’s path to happiness is anything but smooth. Together they’ll discover that true love, like diamonds, can withstand any pressure—and shine even brighter for it.
317 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 10, 2026
84 people are currently reading
4781 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Landish
173 books6,826 followersLauren Landish is a WALL STREET JOURNAL & USA TODAY bestselling author and her books have garnered a legion of praise from her readers.
When she’s not plotting about how she will introduce you to your next sexy as hell book boyfriend, you can find her deep, deep in her writing cave, furiously tapping away on her keyboard, writing scenes that would make even a hardened sailor blush.
Lauren, who lives in NC with her boyfriend and fur baby, warmly invites you to her worlds of rock hard abs, chiseled smiles, and men with deep, fat pockets…but beware! These stories are guaranteed to have you addicted and needing your next fix!
Visit Lauren's Website at: http://www.laurenlandish.com/
Join the Mailing list at: http://www.subscribepage.com/w1h8x6
Connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/lauren.landish
Follow me on twitter: https://twitter.com/laurenlandish
When she’s not plotting about how she will introduce you to your next sexy as hell book boyfriend, you can find her deep, deep in her writing cave, furiously tapping away on her keyboard, writing scenes that would make even a hardened sailor blush.
Lauren, who lives in NC with her boyfriend and fur baby, warmly invites you to her worlds of rock hard abs, chiseled smiles, and men with deep, fat pockets…but beware! These stories are guaranteed to have you addicted and needing your next fix!
Visit Lauren's Website at: http://www.laurenlandish.com/
Join the Mailing list at: http://www.subscribepage.com/w1h8x6
Connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/lauren.landish
Follow me on twitter: https://twitter.com/laurenlandish
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
October 28, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up
I always know what I’m going to get with a Lauren Landish book, some spice, fun and a great distraction when things are a little too much, and this book was exactly what I needed. I’m excited for the next book in this new series.
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up
I always know what I’m going to get with a Lauren Landish book, some spice, fun and a great distraction when things are a little too much, and this book was exactly what I needed. I’m excited for the next book in this new series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐ (Story) 3
⭐ (Narrator) 4
🌶️ 1
🥵 Spicy Chapters: 16, 27
❤️🔥 Swoon Factor: 2.5
📚 Tropes/Themes: hockey romance, brothers bestie, forbidden romance, it's always been you, grumpy sunshine, workplace romance, protective MMC, touch her and die-ish
👀 Dual POV 1st person
🎙️ Dual narration (Carly Robins + Lance Greenfield)
⏰ Approx 6.5 hours @ 1.75x
💔 Content warnings: mentions of CA and neglect in the past
💬I...I didn't really like this story 😅 although it's possible I would have had a different opinion if I hadn't listened to the audiobook. What I realized is that to me the book cover and the narrator's voice and the image that I have of Griffin in my head do not match up at all.
This book cover does not say hockey rom-com to me plus then the narrator's voice doesn't sound like what I would expect to come out of that cover guy's mouth 🤣
And none of it match the image that I have in my head of the MMC based on how he was written. he should be built more like a chunky football player/ looks a little bit more like hulk lol.
On top of that, it felt like the story leaned a little too hard into the tropes and just took them too far... rom com (I genuinely didn't find this book to be that funny), protective MMC, enemies to lovers (but obvs they're not real enemies it's just the miscommunication/hiding bc of the brothers bestie/forbidden romance trope) grumpy sunshine, and then it especially exaggerated ones I'm not really a fan of- size difference, flighty FMC's, touch her and die.
I didn't really feel the chemistry between the MCs and there was a lot of telling too, especially when it came to Griffin's history/backstory.
Then these crazy ass phrases 🤢
"The juices that flow from her"
And
"Pulsing jets of my cream"
To be fair, cum play grosses me out so that's probably why these bothered me but still... COME ON (or I guess "cum" on? Get it? Eh? Eh? Ok I'll stop)
There was about 25 to 30 minutes there when they were doing the DTR thing that I kinda sorta started to get into it but then it just flowed back into ridiculousness.
Idk the plot/story itself was cute I just didn't like the execution I guess- the disconnect between the cover, narrator, and genre was just too much for me.
⭐ (Narrator) 4
🌶️ 1
🥵 Spicy Chapters: 16, 27
❤️🔥 Swoon Factor: 2.5
📚 Tropes/Themes: hockey romance, brothers bestie, forbidden romance, it's always been you, grumpy sunshine, workplace romance, protective MMC, touch her and die-ish
👀 Dual POV 1st person
🎙️ Dual narration (Carly Robins + Lance Greenfield)
⏰ Approx 6.5 hours @ 1.75x
💔 Content warnings: mentions of CA and neglect in the past
💬I...I didn't really like this story 😅 although it's possible I would have had a different opinion if I hadn't listened to the audiobook. What I realized is that to me the book cover and the narrator's voice and the image that I have of Griffin in my head do not match up at all.
This book cover does not say hockey rom-com to me plus then the narrator's voice doesn't sound like what I would expect to come out of that cover guy's mouth 🤣
And none of it match the image that I have in my head of the MMC based on how he was written. he should be built more like a chunky football player/ looks a little bit more like hulk lol.
On top of that, it felt like the story leaned a little too hard into the tropes and just took them too far... rom com (I genuinely didn't find this book to be that funny), protective MMC, enemies to lovers (but obvs they're not real enemies it's just the miscommunication/hiding bc of the brothers bestie/forbidden romance trope) grumpy sunshine, and then it especially exaggerated ones I'm not really a fan of- size difference, flighty FMC's, touch her and die.
I didn't really feel the chemistry between the MCs and there was a lot of telling too, especially when it came to Griffin's history/backstory.
Then these crazy ass phrases 🤢
"The juices that flow from her"
And
"Pulsing jets of my cream"
To be fair, cum play grosses me out so that's probably why these bothered me but still... COME ON (or I guess "cum" on? Get it? Eh? Eh? Ok I'll stop)
There was about 25 to 30 minutes there when they were doing the DTR thing that I kinda sorta started to get into it but then it just flowed back into ridiculousness.
Idk the plot/story itself was cute I just didn't like the execution I guess- the disconnect between the cover, narrator, and genre was just too much for me.
January 31, 2026
Thank you NetGalley, Brilliance Publishing and Lauren Landish for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.
2.5⭐️
I enjoyed the narration and have no complaints on it.
If you enjoy a hockey, brothers best friend/best friends little sister, secret pining, insta love romance and can like a little mob boss side character twist, this book might be for you.
This has all the ingredients for a solid 4 star book but I cannot get over that Penny thought he was hot but mean for 5 years, even calling him a bully. He’s not mean for 1.5 days (admittedly goes out of his way to be helpful), accidentally mentions he’s been in obsessed with her since first sight and then falls D first into her with zero hesitation or discussion on birth control or protection.
I understand the point of his treating her like an annoying sister to avoid his feelings but she mentions how hurtful he’s been and I don’t love her just getting over that after a handful of friendly interactions and orgasms.
Sooo, if we look past the annoyingly dated “I’ve been in love with you since day one but treat you like trash to hide my feelings” mentality- it’s a cute book but that part just felt icky to me.
Cozying up to a mob boss also felt like a weird flex but I’ll see how that storyline works out or if it fizzles out before full judgment.
2.5⭐️
I enjoyed the narration and have no complaints on it.
If you enjoy a hockey, brothers best friend/best friends little sister, secret pining, insta love romance and can like a little mob boss side character twist, this book might be for you.
This has all the ingredients for a solid 4 star book but I cannot get over that Penny thought he was hot but mean for 5 years, even calling him a bully. He’s not mean for 1.5 days (admittedly goes out of his way to be helpful), accidentally mentions he’s been in obsessed with her since first sight and then falls D first into her with zero hesitation or discussion on birth control or protection.
I understand the point of his treating her like an annoying sister to avoid his feelings but she mentions how hurtful he’s been and I don’t love her just getting over that after a handful of friendly interactions and orgasms.
Sooo, if we look past the annoyingly dated “I’ve been in love with you since day one but treat you like trash to hide my feelings” mentality- it’s a cute book but that part just felt icky to me.
Cozying up to a mob boss also felt like a weird flex but I’ll see how that storyline works out or if it fizzles out before full judgment.
Read
January 30, 2026DNF AT 20%
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Montlake and Lauren Landish for giving me the opportunity to read this as an arc.
Unfortunately this wasn’t for me, so I decided to DNF it. I picked it up because the premise sounded interesting, I love sports romances and brother’s best friend is one of my favourite tropes. I was also intrigued by the drama/mistery element and since I’ve been enjoying romantic suspense reads I wanted to give this a try.
My main issue was with the FMC, I found her childish and cringey. Everything happened to her but it was never her fault, she is supposedly an athlete (cheerleader for a hockey team) but she is the clumsiest of them all and when she is not skating she is always falling and risking injuries. Things happen around her and she somehow can never do anything about them. Also, her brother was overly protective. Bro, she is 24 get a grip and let her live her life.
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Montlake and Lauren Landish for giving me the opportunity to read this as an arc.
Unfortunately this wasn’t for me, so I decided to DNF it. I picked it up because the premise sounded interesting, I love sports romances and brother’s best friend is one of my favourite tropes. I was also intrigued by the drama/mistery element and since I’ve been enjoying romantic suspense reads I wanted to give this a try.
My main issue was with the FMC, I found her childish and cringey. Everything happened to her but it was never her fault, she is supposedly an athlete (cheerleader for a hockey team) but she is the clumsiest of them all and when she is not skating she is always falling and risking injuries. Things happen around her and she somehow can never do anything about them. Also, her brother was overly protective. Bro, she is 24 get a grip and let her live her life.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Penny and Griffin have known, and hated, each other for so long. Griffin and Dominic, Penny's brother, have been friends and team mates for years meaning that Griffin is much like a second bothersome older brother.
A secret crush is at the heart of Griffin's hatred...that and the promise to stay away from Dom's sister.
Penny is an accident waiting to happen (except when she is on the ice) and is often plagued by unforseen mishaps.
The biggest though, is the loss of an amazing piece of jewellery and it's potential impact on her small, but successful, business.
Griffin is witness to Penny's lowest moment and offers to help.
What develops is a slap stick relationship that offers humour beyond measure as Penny and Griffin dance around each other, unbeknownst to her brother, whilst trying desperately to solve the unfortunate problem.
Keeping secrets is never a good idea and Griffin has more than most.
As the story and the relationship develops it seems to get even more silly and outlandish but therein lies part of its charm.
At times, a laugh out loud, brother's best friend romance with hockey thrown in!
What's not to enjoy?
A secret crush is at the heart of Griffin's hatred...that and the promise to stay away from Dom's sister.
Penny is an accident waiting to happen (except when she is on the ice) and is often plagued by unforseen mishaps.
The biggest though, is the loss of an amazing piece of jewellery and it's potential impact on her small, but successful, business.
Griffin is witness to Penny's lowest moment and offers to help.
What develops is a slap stick relationship that offers humour beyond measure as Penny and Griffin dance around each other, unbeknownst to her brother, whilst trying desperately to solve the unfortunate problem.
Keeping secrets is never a good idea and Griffin has more than most.
As the story and the relationship develops it seems to get even more silly and outlandish but therein lies part of its charm.
At times, a laugh out loud, brother's best friend romance with hockey thrown in!
What's not to enjoy?
December 18, 2025
This was a typical Lauren Landish book. There was lots of love lots of spice and a problem in the middle. What I really enjoyed was the no third act breakup. There was communication from both sides. The whole stolen ring mob problem was nicely written with a surprising twist. I really enjoyed this book. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
November 2, 2025
ARC review
4.5⭐|2🌶|5% 🌶frequency
This is the first book I've read by Lauren, and I can truthfully say I'm pucked, um, I mean, I'm hooked 😁
I loved Griffin and Penny so much. I love it when he falls first, but it wasn't "just" first, it was so much more 🩷 And there is the whole problem with Dom, Penny's brother/Griffin's best friend. As if that wouldn't be enough... No, there is more I'm not talking about. Just so much that I felt so sorry for Griffin. He is so insecure and full of self-doubt 😭 Even though he is a strong and an enforcer 💪 He is also super protective. Something that's very important to the story. Because who would think that a hockey romance could have anything to do with mafia!? ME definitely not 🙈
There is so much going on in this book. And I have trouble finding words for it. It's just so wonderful. This whole found family thing and how much they all loved Griffin, even though it was more like hate between Griffin and Penny, so she thought 😎 Damnit bro-code!!!
Even with some sad topics, the book has a lot to laugh about, especially because of the banter between Penny and Griffin 😉
I hope Dom will be next in this series. I already loved him, even though he caused a lot of trouble here, but I also think he is a really good guy and definitely needs a good woman by his side 😁
Thanks to the author, Montlake, and @netgalley for trusting me with an ARC 🩷
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
4.5⭐|2🌶|5% 🌶frequency
This is the first book I've read by Lauren, and I can truthfully say I'm pucked, um, I mean, I'm hooked 😁
I loved Griffin and Penny so much. I love it when he falls first, but it wasn't "just" first, it was so much more 🩷 And there is the whole problem with Dom, Penny's brother/Griffin's best friend. As if that wouldn't be enough... No, there is more I'm not talking about. Just so much that I felt so sorry for Griffin. He is so insecure and full of self-doubt 😭 Even though he is a strong and an enforcer 💪 He is also super protective. Something that's very important to the story. Because who would think that a hockey romance could have anything to do with mafia!? ME definitely not 🙈
There is so much going on in this book. And I have trouble finding words for it. It's just so wonderful. This whole found family thing and how much they all loved Griffin, even though it was more like hate between Griffin and Penny, so she thought 😎 Damnit bro-code!!!
Even with some sad topics, the book has a lot to laugh about, especially because of the banter between Penny and Griffin 😉
I hope Dom will be next in this series. I already loved him, even though he caused a lot of trouble here, but I also think he is a really good guy and definitely needs a good woman by his side 😁
Thanks to the author, Montlake, and @netgalley for trusting me with an ARC 🩷
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
February 11, 2026
3.75stars-THE DIAMOND PUCK-UP is the first instalment in Lauren Landish’s contemporary, adult DIRTY PUCKERS erotic,hockey romance series. This is twenty eight year old, Ice Hawks’ defenseman / enforcer Griffin Mahoney, and twenty-five year old, jewelry designer Penny Lee’s story line.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Griffin and Penny) THE DIAMOND PUCK UP follows in the aftermath of a robbery. Penny Lee is a jewelry designer and having purchased a large and expensive diamond ring at a local shop, Penny will become the victim of a theft, and with the help of her brother’s best friend and teammate Griffin Mahoney, Penny will go on the hunt at the local pawn shops for a ring that was never supposed to have been sold. Griffin Mahoney has been in lust with his best friend’s sister for close to five years but when the diamond was stolen, Griffin felt guilty, and pledged his help to uncover the truth but when mobsters come searching for the ring that was lost, Griffin refuses to tell Penny about the possibility of the ring as something more.
The world building focuses on the search for the diamond ring, a diamond Penny was hoping to use in another design but when Griffin discovers that the mob is looking for our story line heroine, Griffin decides to keep it a secret, believing Penny would be safer if she never knew.
The relationship between Penny and Griffin is a forbidden relationship; a best friend’s sister affair in which Penny’s brother Dominic declared Penny off-limits, and in doing so instigated a five year hatred between our story line couple. Griffin’s attraction to Penny is squashed by his teammates’ refusal to allow Dominic and Penny together but when the truth is revealed Griffin may not have only lost the girl but his best friend as well. Working together to locate the missing ring, Penny and Griffin are pulled together, acting on their mutual attraction and sexual desire but our couple is often TSTL, as they go in search of the people who stole the ring. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are introduced to Penny’s brother and Griffin’s teammate Dominic Lee, as well as several players on the Ice Hawks team.
THE DIAMOND PUCK-UP is a story of secrets and lies, crime and fear, family and relationships, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is entertaining and captivating; the romance is seductive; the characters are determined and charismatic.
copy supplied for review
Told from dual first person perspectives (Griffin and Penny) THE DIAMOND PUCK UP follows in the aftermath of a robbery. Penny Lee is a jewelry designer and having purchased a large and expensive diamond ring at a local shop, Penny will become the victim of a theft, and with the help of her brother’s best friend and teammate Griffin Mahoney, Penny will go on the hunt at the local pawn shops for a ring that was never supposed to have been sold. Griffin Mahoney has been in lust with his best friend’s sister for close to five years but when the diamond was stolen, Griffin felt guilty, and pledged his help to uncover the truth but when mobsters come searching for the ring that was lost, Griffin refuses to tell Penny about the possibility of the ring as something more.
The world building focuses on the search for the diamond ring, a diamond Penny was hoping to use in another design but when Griffin discovers that the mob is looking for our story line heroine, Griffin decides to keep it a secret, believing Penny would be safer if she never knew.
The relationship between Penny and Griffin is a forbidden relationship; a best friend’s sister affair in which Penny’s brother Dominic declared Penny off-limits, and in doing so instigated a five year hatred between our story line couple. Griffin’s attraction to Penny is squashed by his teammates’ refusal to allow Dominic and Penny together but when the truth is revealed Griffin may not have only lost the girl but his best friend as well. Working together to locate the missing ring, Penny and Griffin are pulled together, acting on their mutual attraction and sexual desire but our couple is often TSTL, as they go in search of the people who stole the ring. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are introduced to Penny’s brother and Griffin’s teammate Dominic Lee, as well as several players on the Ice Hawks team.
THE DIAMOND PUCK-UP is a story of secrets and lies, crime and fear, family and relationships, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is entertaining and captivating; the romance is seductive; the characters are determined and charismatic.
copy supplied for review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A heartfelt, sporty romance that's both tender and sizzling - Landish delivers a win!
The Diamond Puck-Up had me hooked to the last puck drop! This was a slightly suspenseful tale of the long unrequited feelings hidden by pro-hockey player Griffin, for his best friend's younger sister, Penny. I love a man who has mastered the smoldering slow burn of loving someone from afar. And gruff, grumpy Griffin is the picture of protector energy - but beneath his enforcer exterior, he's incredibly respectful of his buddy's wishes to stay away from Penny. When the most unfortunate twist of fate happens, he and Penny are thrust together to find a missing ring.
Opposite him, Penny is sweet sunshine personified. She's a creative boss babe making her own way in the world as confidently as you can when disasters (big and small) seem to find you quickly. Her jewelry business is on the cusp of success when the unthinkable happens and she has a ring stolen. Griffin puts his skills as a defender to the test as he helps Penny.
Landish's writing style is so easy to connect with and her characters are impossible not to love. But Penny and Griffin were especially fun to watch. Sometimes books throw two people together and call it love, but these two fit like puzzle pieces. Penny needs someone to watch out for her and to help ground her without getting in the way of her creativity and individuality. And Griffin needs some sunshine and sass so he can lighten up and heal from a dark past. As Griffin fights to learn that he doesn't have to keep earning the love from his found family, Penny also learns that her quirks aren't a problem for the right person - and that it's okay to take a chance on love!
The Diamond Puck-Up delivers:
- Grumpy-Sunshine Pairing
- He Falls First
- Found Family
- Brother's Best Friend
- Sports Setting + A Tough of Mystery/Suspense
If you enjoy grumpy-sunshine, sporty romances, you'll be swept away in the sweet connection between Griffin and Penny. With its blend of heart, humor, and a hint of mystery, this story skates perfectly between tenderness and tension. Will these two be able to work through a brush with danger, a high-stakes hockey season, and their complicated feelings? Skate on to find out!
4 Glowing stars for a story that's equal parts heart and heat! Thank you to Montlake, NetGalley, and Lauren Landish for the opportunity to read and share my honest opinion about the book!
The Diamond Puck-Up had me hooked to the last puck drop! This was a slightly suspenseful tale of the long unrequited feelings hidden by pro-hockey player Griffin, for his best friend's younger sister, Penny. I love a man who has mastered the smoldering slow burn of loving someone from afar. And gruff, grumpy Griffin is the picture of protector energy - but beneath his enforcer exterior, he's incredibly respectful of his buddy's wishes to stay away from Penny. When the most unfortunate twist of fate happens, he and Penny are thrust together to find a missing ring.
Opposite him, Penny is sweet sunshine personified. She's a creative boss babe making her own way in the world as confidently as you can when disasters (big and small) seem to find you quickly. Her jewelry business is on the cusp of success when the unthinkable happens and she has a ring stolen. Griffin puts his skills as a defender to the test as he helps Penny.
Landish's writing style is so easy to connect with and her characters are impossible not to love. But Penny and Griffin were especially fun to watch. Sometimes books throw two people together and call it love, but these two fit like puzzle pieces. Penny needs someone to watch out for her and to help ground her without getting in the way of her creativity and individuality. And Griffin needs some sunshine and sass so he can lighten up and heal from a dark past. As Griffin fights to learn that he doesn't have to keep earning the love from his found family, Penny also learns that her quirks aren't a problem for the right person - and that it's okay to take a chance on love!
The Diamond Puck-Up delivers:
- Grumpy-Sunshine Pairing
- He Falls First
- Found Family
- Brother's Best Friend
- Sports Setting + A Tough of Mystery/Suspense
If you enjoy grumpy-sunshine, sporty romances, you'll be swept away in the sweet connection between Griffin and Penny. With its blend of heart, humor, and a hint of mystery, this story skates perfectly between tenderness and tension. Will these two be able to work through a brush with danger, a high-stakes hockey season, and their complicated feelings? Skate on to find out!
4 Glowing stars for a story that's equal parts heart and heat! Thank you to Montlake, NetGalley, and Lauren Landish for the opportunity to read and share my honest opinion about the book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
📚🎧 Book + Audiobook Review – The Diamond Puck-Up by Lauren Landish 🏒💎
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Lauren Landish, Montlake & Brilliance Audio for the ARC & ALC 💕
Okay sooo… this was such a fun, chaotic, slightly ridiculous rom-com ride and I honestly had a really good time with it 😂✨
We’ve got brother’s best friend / best friend’s little sister, grumpy hockey enforcer x quirky sunshine jewelry designer, found family vibes, dual POV + dual narration (YES PLEASE 😍), plus… wait for it… jewelry theft + mob boss drama 😳 Like??? Was I expecting mafia in my hockey romance? Absolutely not. Did I enjoy it? Surprisingly… yes 😂
Penny is our clumsy, quirky, accident-prone FMC who runs a jewelry business, and Griffin is the broody hockey player who has been secretly in love with her for years 🥹 I’ll be honest — her quirky chaos was a bit much for me at times 🙈 and I’m once again tired of the “I’ve loved you since day one but treated you badly to hide my feelings” trope 😅 Sir, please seek therapy.
That said — I still had such a good time reading and listening to this 🥰 The banter was fun, the romance was cute, the spice was spicy 🌶️, and the stolen ring + mob subplot was wildly unrealistic, completely over-the-top, and kinda strange… but also super entertaining 😂
🎧 Audio thoughts: Carly Robins and Lance Greenfield were fantastic. I’ve been missing proper dual narration so badly, and this felt like such a treat. Their performances brought so much emotion and personality and honestly elevated the whole story for me 💕
✨ Things I really loved:
• No third-act breakup (BLESS 🙌)
• Strong communication
• Found family feels 🩷
• Fun pacing that kept me turning pages
I did feel like the relationship progressed to deep in love VERY quickly, and the suspense plot wrapped up in a slightly strange and convenient way — but overall, this was just pure rom-com chaos in the best way 😌✨
If you love:
🏒 Hockey romance
💖 Brother’s best friend
😈 Grumpy x sunshine
👨👩👧 Found family
🔥 Spice + humor + drama
…then this one is definitely worth picking up — especially if you’re in the mood for something fun, fast, spicy, and a little wild 💕📚🎧
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Lauren Landish, Montlake & Brilliance Audio for the ARC & ALC 💕
Okay sooo… this was such a fun, chaotic, slightly ridiculous rom-com ride and I honestly had a really good time with it 😂✨
We’ve got brother’s best friend / best friend’s little sister, grumpy hockey enforcer x quirky sunshine jewelry designer, found family vibes, dual POV + dual narration (YES PLEASE 😍), plus… wait for it… jewelry theft + mob boss drama 😳 Like??? Was I expecting mafia in my hockey romance? Absolutely not. Did I enjoy it? Surprisingly… yes 😂
Penny is our clumsy, quirky, accident-prone FMC who runs a jewelry business, and Griffin is the broody hockey player who has been secretly in love with her for years 🥹 I’ll be honest — her quirky chaos was a bit much for me at times 🙈 and I’m once again tired of the “I’ve loved you since day one but treated you badly to hide my feelings” trope 😅 Sir, please seek therapy.
That said — I still had such a good time reading and listening to this 🥰 The banter was fun, the romance was cute, the spice was spicy 🌶️, and the stolen ring + mob subplot was wildly unrealistic, completely over-the-top, and kinda strange… but also super entertaining 😂
🎧 Audio thoughts: Carly Robins and Lance Greenfield were fantastic. I’ve been missing proper dual narration so badly, and this felt like such a treat. Their performances brought so much emotion and personality and honestly elevated the whole story for me 💕
✨ Things I really loved:
• No third-act breakup (BLESS 🙌)
• Strong communication
• Found family feels 🩷
• Fun pacing that kept me turning pages
I did feel like the relationship progressed to deep in love VERY quickly, and the suspense plot wrapped up in a slightly strange and convenient way — but overall, this was just pure rom-com chaos in the best way 😌✨
If you love:
🏒 Hockey romance
💖 Brother’s best friend
😈 Grumpy x sunshine
👨👩👧 Found family
🔥 Spice + humor + drama
…then this one is definitely worth picking up — especially if you’re in the mood for something fun, fast, spicy, and a little wild 💕📚🎧
February 4, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️½ ALC Audiobook Review
The Diamond Puck-Up by Lauren Landish
🎧 Narrated by Carly Robins & Lance Greenfield
The Diamond Puck-Up was a flirty, fast-paced romcom with hockey himbo energy, low-stakes chaos, and just enough spice to keep things entertaining. This one definitely leaned more fun and playful than dark or intense, and once I adjusted my expectations, I had a good time with it.
Griffin is the classic grumpy hockey guy who thinks he’s emotionally unavailable… until he absolutely isn’t. His internal struggle of wanting Penny while trying (and failing) to be honorable was peak romcom nonsense in the best way. Penny brought the sunshine—confident, witty, and fully capable of holding her own against a very large, very broody man who is clearly down bad.
Their banter and chemistry were the highlight for me. The attraction was immediate, the tension was flirty, and the spicy moments were fun without taking themselves too seriously. It had that “we probably shouldn’t, but we absolutely are” vibe that works so well in best-friend’s-sister romances.
The suspense element felt more like background noise than a real threat, and at times the plot wrapped things up a little too conveniently. I didn’t always feel the urgency I expected, but honestly, the romcom tone made that easier to forgive.
On audio, Carly Robins brought great comedic timing and warmth to Penny, while Lance Greenfield delivered Griffin’s gruff, growly energy perfectly. His voice especially worked well for the flirty, possessive moments—chef’s kiss for the spice.
Overall, The Diamond Puck-Up was a light, spicy hockey romcom with good chemistry, playful narration, and plenty of swoony moments. It didn’t fully hit five-star territory for me, but it was a fun, easy listen that delivered laughs, heat, and hockey vibes.
The Diamond Puck-Up by Lauren Landish
🎧 Narrated by Carly Robins & Lance Greenfield
The Diamond Puck-Up was a flirty, fast-paced romcom with hockey himbo energy, low-stakes chaos, and just enough spice to keep things entertaining. This one definitely leaned more fun and playful than dark or intense, and once I adjusted my expectations, I had a good time with it.
Griffin is the classic grumpy hockey guy who thinks he’s emotionally unavailable… until he absolutely isn’t. His internal struggle of wanting Penny while trying (and failing) to be honorable was peak romcom nonsense in the best way. Penny brought the sunshine—confident, witty, and fully capable of holding her own against a very large, very broody man who is clearly down bad.
Their banter and chemistry were the highlight for me. The attraction was immediate, the tension was flirty, and the spicy moments were fun without taking themselves too seriously. It had that “we probably shouldn’t, but we absolutely are” vibe that works so well in best-friend’s-sister romances.
The suspense element felt more like background noise than a real threat, and at times the plot wrapped things up a little too conveniently. I didn’t always feel the urgency I expected, but honestly, the romcom tone made that easier to forgive.
On audio, Carly Robins brought great comedic timing and warmth to Penny, while Lance Greenfield delivered Griffin’s gruff, growly energy perfectly. His voice especially worked well for the flirty, possessive moments—chef’s kiss for the spice.
Overall, The Diamond Puck-Up was a light, spicy hockey romcom with good chemistry, playful narration, and plenty of swoony moments. It didn’t fully hit five-star territory for me, but it was a fun, easy listen that delivered laughs, heat, and hockey vibes.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is an arc review, I got the ebook through NetGalley, thank you to Lauren Landish and Montlake for the arc!
I believe this is my first book by this particular author and I absolutely loved it! The diamond puck-up is a true rom-com and I spent the entire book giggling and kicking my feet at Griffin and Penny. It’s not as often as I’d like that I get that sort of reaction from a book and I’m thrilled to say that this hockey romance featuring a grumpy hockey player who is in love with his best friend’s little sister had be in a chokehold and binge reading it.
As I’m unsure if this book is connected to any others, I can’t tell you if there are connections I missed but I can’t tell you that I was able to read it as a stand alone without losing track of the plot. Griffin might come across as someone who has a harsh exterior but he’s a true cinnamon roll hero for the right girl and that girl is Penelope Lee.
Penny is a riot, truly a funny girl who seems to have her life figured out and is thriving. Her character was charming and witty, her humor quick to get you and her clumsiness endearing. Griffin on the other hand gets you through his attention to detail when it comes to Penny, his protectiveness, his loyalty, his love for his best friend and his family and how much he puts his friendship with Dom first.
The diamond puck up is a fantastic book and I’m excited to share this as my arc review, I think that if you’re looking for a fun, lighthearted rom-com with hockey, forbidden romance, a slight suspense sprinkled into the plot like and a HEA, this will be right up your alley.
Thank you Montlake for the arc!
I believe this is my first book by this particular author and I absolutely loved it! The diamond puck-up is a true rom-com and I spent the entire book giggling and kicking my feet at Griffin and Penny. It’s not as often as I’d like that I get that sort of reaction from a book and I’m thrilled to say that this hockey romance featuring a grumpy hockey player who is in love with his best friend’s little sister had be in a chokehold and binge reading it.
As I’m unsure if this book is connected to any others, I can’t tell you if there are connections I missed but I can’t tell you that I was able to read it as a stand alone without losing track of the plot. Griffin might come across as someone who has a harsh exterior but he’s a true cinnamon roll hero for the right girl and that girl is Penelope Lee.
Penny is a riot, truly a funny girl who seems to have her life figured out and is thriving. Her character was charming and witty, her humor quick to get you and her clumsiness endearing. Griffin on the other hand gets you through his attention to detail when it comes to Penny, his protectiveness, his loyalty, his love for his best friend and his family and how much he puts his friendship with Dom first.
The diamond puck up is a fantastic book and I’m excited to share this as my arc review, I think that if you’re looking for a fun, lighthearted rom-com with hockey, forbidden romance, a slight suspense sprinkled into the plot like and a HEA, this will be right up your alley.
Thank you Montlake for the arc!
February 10, 2026
Dirty Puckers is the start to a new Series that introduces us to the professional hockey world of teammates and best friends Griffin and Dominic, and his younger sister Penny. Griffin was dealt some horrible parents and is alone at 18 years old. When Dom brings him home Griffin finds himself a new family and has an instant reaction to Penny so to honor his promise he shows nothing but hate and teasing towards Penny. Over the years Penny learns to give it right back and sees the loyalty that Griffin has for his friendship and family. Penny is a whirlwind of happiness and one accident waiting to happen so when she buys the most exquisite ring for her custom jewelry company she’s over excited until she walks right into Griffin a hunk of a man! The most unexpected thing happens and the ring is stolen right from their hands. Griffin feels guilty and offers to pay for the ring and ends up helping track down some shady places it could be. Along the way they get to know one another and Penny shows her true self and Griffin can no longer hold back. The humor between them is something unique and all them and as they figure out how to navigate some under desirable men are after Penny. Griffin protects Penny at all cost and when Dom finds out the gloves come off! As the season and playoffs come Penny and Griffin find themselves in unbelievably funny situations and making friends with a shady and powerful man while dealing with an over protective brother. This is a voluntary review of an advance reader copy received from NetGalley.
February 11, 2026
The Diamond Puck-Up is the kind of romance that blends heart-pounding danger with tender, slow-burn emotion—and somehow makes both feel equally addictive.
Griffin Mahoney is all muscle, scowls, and silent loyalty, the type of NHL enforcer who exists to take hits and protect everyone else. But beneath the bruises and intimidating presence is a man who’s been in love with the same woman for years and never believed he deserved her. Penny Lee, his best friend’s sister, is creative, warm, and quietly brave—a jewelry designer who sees beauty in broken things and believes even the hardest edges can be reshaped into something meaningful.
What starts as long-suppressed attraction quickly turns into something far more dangerous when Penny becomes tangled in a stolen ring and very real Mob threats. Suddenly Griffin isn’t just guarding his heart—he’s guarding her life. The tension builds on every page, balancing stolen glances and emotional vulnerability with escalating external stakes that never feel forced.
The real magic of this book, though, is the emotional payoff. Griffin’s journey from self-denial to self-worth is deeply satisfying, and Penny’s ability to stand her ground without losing her softness makes her a standout heroine. Their chemistry is electric, but it’s their trust in each other that truly sells the romance.
Romantic, suspenseful, and packed with protective-hero energy, The Diamond Puck-Up proves that love forged under pressure doesn’t crack—it shines brighter.
I read an early copy of this book and am sharing my genuine opinion.
Griffin Mahoney is all muscle, scowls, and silent loyalty, the type of NHL enforcer who exists to take hits and protect everyone else. But beneath the bruises and intimidating presence is a man who’s been in love with the same woman for years and never believed he deserved her. Penny Lee, his best friend’s sister, is creative, warm, and quietly brave—a jewelry designer who sees beauty in broken things and believes even the hardest edges can be reshaped into something meaningful.
What starts as long-suppressed attraction quickly turns into something far more dangerous when Penny becomes tangled in a stolen ring and very real Mob threats. Suddenly Griffin isn’t just guarding his heart—he’s guarding her life. The tension builds on every page, balancing stolen glances and emotional vulnerability with escalating external stakes that never feel forced.
The real magic of this book, though, is the emotional payoff. Griffin’s journey from self-denial to self-worth is deeply satisfying, and Penny’s ability to stand her ground without losing her softness makes her a standout heroine. Their chemistry is electric, but it’s their trust in each other that truly sells the romance.
Romantic, suspenseful, and packed with protective-hero energy, The Diamond Puck-Up proves that love forged under pressure doesn’t crack—it shines brighter.
I read an early copy of this book and am sharing my genuine opinion.
February 11, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
This was a slow-paced, slow-burn romance between a grumpy NHL player with a rough upbringing and his best friend’s sunshine, clumsy little sister, who works as a pro hockey cheerleader and jewelry designer. Griffin fell for her at first sight when he met her years ago, but you know how the overprotective brother goes… “My sister is off-limits! Got it!!” Because of that, he treated her so badddd, and they both spent years thinking the other hated them. I’ve read books featuring pro cheerleaders before, but seeing it set in hockey was a first for me, and Lauren did an amazing job showcasing their work without taking away from the hockey aspect of the story.
That said, most of the book felt like a wild Scooby-Doo chase for Penny’s “my precious” *in Hobbits’ voice*, which connects to her other work. It dragged on for a bit too long, and combined with Griffin constantly holding himself back, it took away some of the fun for me. I was 🤏🏻 close to DNFing at one point, but things picked up a little after the “fuck it” moment. Another downside for me was that the spice level was way too low, and Griffin took a long time to finally step up his game when it comes to her.
I did enjoy seeing Griffin’s growth by the end and Penny finding more success with her small business. Even though someone else ultimately found “my precious,” I liked how it still played a role in bringing them together. The epilogue ended up being my favorite part of the book.
This is my honest opinion for the ARC I received. Thanks Lauren, Montlake, and NetGalley for this opportunity.
This was a slow-paced, slow-burn romance between a grumpy NHL player with a rough upbringing and his best friend’s sunshine, clumsy little sister, who works as a pro hockey cheerleader and jewelry designer. Griffin fell for her at first sight when he met her years ago, but you know how the overprotective brother goes… “My sister is off-limits! Got it!!” Because of that, he treated her so badddd, and they both spent years thinking the other hated them. I’ve read books featuring pro cheerleaders before, but seeing it set in hockey was a first for me, and Lauren did an amazing job showcasing their work without taking away from the hockey aspect of the story.
That said, most of the book felt like a wild Scooby-Doo chase for Penny’s “my precious” *in Hobbits’ voice*, which connects to her other work. It dragged on for a bit too long, and combined with Griffin constantly holding himself back, it took away some of the fun for me. I was 🤏🏻 close to DNFing at one point, but things picked up a little after the “fuck it” moment. Another downside for me was that the spice level was way too low, and Griffin took a long time to finally step up his game when it comes to her.
I did enjoy seeing Griffin’s growth by the end and Penny finding more success with her small business. Even though someone else ultimately found “my precious,” I liked how it still played a role in bringing them together. The epilogue ended up being my favorite part of the book.
This is my honest opinion for the ARC I received. Thanks Lauren, Montlake, and NetGalley for this opportunity.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Brilliance Publishing, NetGalley and Lauren Landish for the ALC of The Diamond Puck-Up, narrated by Carly Robins and Lance Greenfield.
If you like…. Slow burn, best friends sister, grumpy/sunshine, enemies to lovers and secret pining, you will enjoy this book.
I really liked this audiobook. Griffin is a professional hockey player who came from nothing. He had a horrible upbringing and his one true friend/family in this world is his teammate and best friend. He knew that Penny was going to be an issue the moment he met her. His best friends little sister was OFF LIMITS. So to keep himself distant he didn’t treat her very well. He picked on her like her br
other does. However, secretly he obsessed about her for years, eating up any information given.
Penny works as a custom jewelry designer, taking old pieces and transforming them into something special. She also is an ice girl/cheerleader for her brother’s professional hockey team. When she purchases a piece to redesign, she happens to run into Griffin and out of no where she gets robbed right on the street. Little do they know this ring is going to bring so much drama, stress, connections to the mob and finally letting those secret feeling be known!
I thought Carly Robins and Lance Greenfield did a great job narrating!
I will be on the look out for book two in this series.
If you like…. Slow burn, best friends sister, grumpy/sunshine, enemies to lovers and secret pining, you will enjoy this book.
I really liked this audiobook. Griffin is a professional hockey player who came from nothing. He had a horrible upbringing and his one true friend/family in this world is his teammate and best friend. He knew that Penny was going to be an issue the moment he met her. His best friends little sister was OFF LIMITS. So to keep himself distant he didn’t treat her very well. He picked on her like her br
other does. However, secretly he obsessed about her for years, eating up any information given.
Penny works as a custom jewelry designer, taking old pieces and transforming them into something special. She also is an ice girl/cheerleader for her brother’s professional hockey team. When she purchases a piece to redesign, she happens to run into Griffin and out of no where she gets robbed right on the street. Little do they know this ring is going to bring so much drama, stress, connections to the mob and finally letting those secret feeling be known!
I thought Carly Robins and Lance Greenfield did a great job narrating!
I will be on the look out for book two in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
In The Diamond Puck-Up, a chance encounter pulls a young jewelry maker into an unexpected romance with her brother’s best friend, a professional hockey player she has known for years but never quite seen this way. When a diamond heist suddenly enters the scene, their familiar dynamic shifts into something far more dangerous and far more flirty. What starts as a playful, trope-forward setup leans into forced proximity and a crime-adjacent adventure as the they get swept into a web of confusion and mystery.
The premise here is genuinely fun, but the execution did not quite work for me. The heroine is very young and very naïve, which made it difficult for me to believe she could realistically keep up with a high-stakes heist. The professions feel oddly random and mostly decorative. Despite the title, this barely reads like a hockey romance, and the jewelry-making element rarely feels meaningful. The mystery plot drags and loops in a way that feels more repetitive than suspenseful. I can absolutely see this working for younger readers, but as a reader in her 40s, the TikTok-coded vernacular felt shockingly young and occasionally bizarre. I found myself pausing to ask if I had accidentally opened a different app. Still, I loved the idea behind this book. The premise is clever, even if the story itself did not fully stick the landing.
The premise here is genuinely fun, but the execution did not quite work for me. The heroine is very young and very naïve, which made it difficult for me to believe she could realistically keep up with a high-stakes heist. The professions feel oddly random and mostly decorative. Despite the title, this barely reads like a hockey romance, and the jewelry-making element rarely feels meaningful. The mystery plot drags and loops in a way that feels more repetitive than suspenseful. I can absolutely see this working for younger readers, but as a reader in her 40s, the TikTok-coded vernacular felt shockingly young and occasionally bizarre. I found myself pausing to ask if I had accidentally opened a different app. Still, I loved the idea behind this book. The premise is clever, even if the story itself did not fully stick the landing.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Griffin is so mean to Penny, but his reasoning is based on her brother making it clear to stay away from his sister and of course his secret crush on her. Griffin's inner monologue throughout the story is sad and funny at the same time. His doubt in him being good enough for Penny is based on his own family issues.
Penny is a hot mess. She is a cheerleader for the hockey team her brother and Griffin play for. She has perfect balance on the ice, but for some reason she has trouble standing on her two feet when she is not on the ice as well as other clumsy stuff.
Penny buys a beautiful ring with plans to turn it into a huge profit for her small jewelry making business. However that dreams does not go like she wants to.
The romance is funny with sweet and hot moments. Trying to keep it all a secret thing until it's not. This is a great brother's bestfriend/teammate romance with hockey players. And some of those players are hilarious too.
The narrators Carly Robins and Lance Greenfield did a great job on this audiobook. They made the story better just being able to hear the different characters with different tones and such.
Thank you to NetGalley, Brilliance Publishing I Brilliance Audio, and Montlake for sharing this book and audiobook with me. All of my opinions are my own.
Penny is a hot mess. She is a cheerleader for the hockey team her brother and Griffin play for. She has perfect balance on the ice, but for some reason she has trouble standing on her two feet when she is not on the ice as well as other clumsy stuff.
Penny buys a beautiful ring with plans to turn it into a huge profit for her small jewelry making business. However that dreams does not go like she wants to.
The romance is funny with sweet and hot moments. Trying to keep it all a secret thing until it's not. This is a great brother's bestfriend/teammate romance with hockey players. And some of those players are hilarious too.
The narrators Carly Robins and Lance Greenfield did a great job on this audiobook. They made the story better just being able to hear the different characters with different tones and such.
Thank you to NetGalley, Brilliance Publishing I Brilliance Audio, and Montlake for sharing this book and audiobook with me. All of my opinions are my own.
October 9, 2025
Oh. My. Gosh!!! The Diamond Puck-Up by Lauren Landish is easily one of the funniest, most entertaining romcoms I’ve read in a long time—with a completely original plot that had me laughing out loud! Sure, the classic tropes are there—grumpy hockey player, forbidden sister, all that good stuff—but this book is so much more than that.
The humor? Absolute perfection. Mrs. Landish, it’s like you wrote this just for me! The awkward, cheesy, and delightfully cringey moments were straight out of my own life. I adore an awkward heroine, and Penny is exactly that—a clumsy, lovable disaster with a heart of gold. And Griffin… dear, sweet, tortured Griffin. What’s not to love?
This story is a perfect mix of humor, heart, and heat—with a dash of suspense and the happily-ever-after every romance reader craves. I devoured it and will definitely be adding a hard copy to my bookshelf the second it releases.
I’m so grateful to have received an ARC—now I’m off to binge more of Lauren Landish’s books! I highly, highly recommend this adorable romcom that will leave you smiling and warm inside.
10/10—absolutely loved it!
Thank you to Lauren Landish, Montlake, and NetGalley for the privilege of the ARC.
The humor? Absolute perfection. Mrs. Landish, it’s like you wrote this just for me! The awkward, cheesy, and delightfully cringey moments were straight out of my own life. I adore an awkward heroine, and Penny is exactly that—a clumsy, lovable disaster with a heart of gold. And Griffin… dear, sweet, tortured Griffin. What’s not to love?
This story is a perfect mix of humor, heart, and heat—with a dash of suspense and the happily-ever-after every romance reader craves. I devoured it and will definitely be adding a hard copy to my bookshelf the second it releases.
I’m so grateful to have received an ARC—now I’m off to binge more of Lauren Landish’s books! I highly, highly recommend this adorable romcom that will leave you smiling and warm inside.
10/10—absolutely loved it!
Thank you to Lauren Landish, Montlake, and NetGalley for the privilege of the ARC.
November 17, 2025
This book is perfect for those readers who not only like the enemies to lovers trope, but prefer it with a fair share of drama. The Diamond Puck-Up felt like a constant whirlwind that kept shifting the chemistry between the MMC, FMC and her brother in sudden and at times unexpected ways.
The spice was very spicy and filled with tons of pining for each other. Well written out. Even if there were sudden and rather unexplained switches from supposedly enemies to let’s-rip-each-other’s-clothes-off moments…
“My whole life was hockey, and then I saw you. And you were the one person I could never have. You are the one person I can’t have.”
For once I absolutely loved the MMC. Griffin felt like a safe kind of bad guy. The kind that’s more bad by label not truly in his heart, and his backstory was both relatable and heartbreaking.
“I’m risking everything here, for you, because you’re worth it. Just don’t let me ruin it.”
Thank you to Netgalley and Montlake Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
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The spice was very spicy and filled with tons of pining for each other. Well written out. Even if there were sudden and rather unexplained switches from supposedly enemies to let’s-rip-each-other’s-clothes-off moments…
“My whole life was hockey, and then I saw you. And you were the one person I could never have. You are the one person I can’t have.”
For once I absolutely loved the MMC. Griffin felt like a safe kind of bad guy. The kind that’s more bad by label not truly in his heart, and his backstory was both relatable and heartbreaking.
“I’m risking everything here, for you, because you’re worth it. Just don’t let me ruin it.”
Thank you to Netgalley and Montlake Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
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Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!
The Diamond Puck-Up is an adorable rom-com with best friends’ sister, hockey, enemies to lovers and golden retriever energy all wrapped in one!
Griffin is in love with his best friend’s (very off limits) little sister, Penny, but hides it and acts as though he hates her for years. He is forced to admit his feelings for her through a series of unfortunate events when Penny purchases a diamond for her jewelry business and the mob comes after them!
You can’t help but fall in love with Griffin and his golden retriever energy (once he admits he’s in love with Penny) and Penny is absolutely accident prone! I love the positive energy this book brings. Penny is a main character who knows what she wants and won’t back down but is also relatable with her clumsy ways. She knows how to forgive and realize what’s important!
I love how this story is highly improbable, but you can’t help but laugh and fall in love with the characters along the way. Even Penny’s brother Dom is loveable with his protective, older brother attitude! Lauren Landish made me laugh the entire time! I highly recommend this if you need a feel-good rom-com to brighten your day.
The Diamond Puck-Up is an adorable rom-com with best friends’ sister, hockey, enemies to lovers and golden retriever energy all wrapped in one!
Griffin is in love with his best friend’s (very off limits) little sister, Penny, but hides it and acts as though he hates her for years. He is forced to admit his feelings for her through a series of unfortunate events when Penny purchases a diamond for her jewelry business and the mob comes after them!
You can’t help but fall in love with Griffin and his golden retriever energy (once he admits he’s in love with Penny) and Penny is absolutely accident prone! I love the positive energy this book brings. Penny is a main character who knows what she wants and won’t back down but is also relatable with her clumsy ways. She knows how to forgive and realize what’s important!
I love how this story is highly improbable, but you can’t help but laugh and fall in love with the characters along the way. Even Penny’s brother Dom is loveable with his protective, older brother attitude! Lauren Landish made me laugh the entire time! I highly recommend this if you need a feel-good rom-com to brighten your day.
January 24, 2026
This delightful and entertaining Hockey romance centers around Penny Lee and Griffin Mahoney. Their antagonistic relationship began when Penny’s pro Hockey brother introduced his teammate to his family. Despite five years of growing antagonism, their banter hasn’t diminished. Penny, a talented custom jewelry designer, specializes in transforming antique jewelry with a modern twist. Her latest acquisition is a five-carat antique ring from a cherished antique dealer. As she leaves the shop, she encounters Griffin, and during a demonstration of the ring, a thief swiftly snatches it. Unbeknownst to Penny, the ring belonged to a local mob boss whose subordinate had mistakenly handed it to the antique store. Now, Griffin and Penny must collaborate to retrieve the ring before the mobsters harm her. This heartwarming and humorous romance follows the journey of a grumpy Griffin who falls for the sunshiny Penny, and she eventually reciprocates his feelings. It’s a quick and enjoyable read, and I eagerly anticipate the next installment in the series. I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley for my honest review.
October 8, 2025
This was a fun, steamy, heartfelt hockey romance that delivers plenty of laughs and tension. Griffin completely stole the show for me. He’s broken, vulnerable, and trying so hard to protect the people he cares about, even when he's protecting them from him. His mix of toughness and quiet pain made him such a great character. I wanted the HEA for him so bad!
Penny, on the other hand, was a bit hit or miss for me. While her humor and confidence added energy to the story, her constant joking sometimes went too far and made her feel a little one note. I wanted more emotional depth from her, especially given the dangerous and high stakes situations she was in. At times, her endless comparisons and sexual innuendos pulled me out of the story instead of adding to it.
Still, it's is an entertaining read that fans of sports romance will definitely enjoy, even if Penny’s humor sometimes outskates the heart of the story.
Thank you to Lauren Landish, Montlake, and NetGalley for this ARC read. This review is my honest opinion and completely voluntary.
Penny, on the other hand, was a bit hit or miss for me. While her humor and confidence added energy to the story, her constant joking sometimes went too far and made her feel a little one note. I wanted more emotional depth from her, especially given the dangerous and high stakes situations she was in. At times, her endless comparisons and sexual innuendos pulled me out of the story instead of adding to it.
Still, it's is an entertaining read that fans of sports romance will definitely enjoy, even if Penny’s humor sometimes outskates the heart of the story.
Thank you to Lauren Landish, Montlake, and NetGalley for this ARC read. This review is my honest opinion and completely voluntary.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
All the genres that keep me entertained - enemies to lovers, sports romance (namely hockey), best friend/team mate’s sister, and a little snippet of mafia in the mix. All this makes for a super entertaining storyline. I love that Griffin has had a crush on Penny since he first laid eyes on her, and I love that when he went all in, he went all in, even considering his previous despicable behaviour towards her. Despite his friendship and despite his past, he was 100% team Penny, even though she didn’t know it. The theft of the diamond, and the subsequent hunt for it was a super fun addition, then there’s the mob boss, and his goons, adding a little bit of suspense. Great characters, the chemistry between Griffin and Penny is palpable, Griffin’s restraint is admirable, Penny’s clumsiness is relatable, I love that she isn’t perfect. I also enjoyed the hockey narrative, I could really visualise those games. All in all, a perfect read. I can’t wait to see where book 2 takes us. I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is my honest review.
January 19, 2026
I loved every single thing about this book! LL always gives us an unputdownable story that has you swooning, laughing, and falling in love. Penny is one of my favorite characters because she is so funny, full of chaos yet so strong. And can we please talk about how Griffin Mahoney is one of the most sweetest characters even if he’s stone cold and he grunts a lot. Under that gruff exterior is a heart so full of love. He may act like he hates Penny but that’s the farthest thing from the truth. Gahhh..I swooned, I kicked my feet, I couldn’t get enough of them. It was so so good!
Penny and Griffin get into a predicament that makes them spend some time together. While trying to find a ring, they deal with some sketchy people and it’s such an adventure. I just loved everything about this book. Ohh did I forget to mention that he’s her brother’s best friend? Yeah! So good!
READ IT! You won’t be disappointed! Five stars!
Highly recommended.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy of this book!
Penny and Griffin get into a predicament that makes them spend some time together. While trying to find a ring, they deal with some sketchy people and it’s such an adventure. I just loved everything about this book. Ohh did I forget to mention that he’s her brother’s best friend? Yeah! So good!
READ IT! You won’t be disappointed! Five stars!
Highly recommended.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy of this book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
From the first few chapters I was 100% hooked. I actually had to press pause and send a voice memo to one of my friend already gushing about this book ! That was an almost 5 minutes voice memo only 3-4 chapters in! That is how much I was sucked in and obsessed! The characters were everything, the banter was AMAZING! the FMC was just hilarious! Everyone needs a friend like her! She made me laugh so hard. Their relationship was precious and had me rooting for them all along. The obsession he has towards her and the protectiveness. Urgggg SO GOOD! I did this as an ALC and the narrators did such an amazing job! The pacing, the tone, everything hit jsut right! I will definitely recommend this book to so many of my friends. The genre and tropes are well done. The hockey player, brother’s best friend/ best friends sister is a trope I always like. There was also a surprising twist and turns and I had ot seen that coming and I usually always see things coming. Did I think I would get stolen jewelry with a side of mafia to my hockey romance, absolutely not, what I here for it 1000%!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Diamond Puck-Up is the first hockey romance in the Dirty Puckers series. Penny Lee has bad luck following her around so it’s not all that surprising when the ting she just bought to redesign is stolen. What is shocking is the fact that she’s searching for the ring with her brother’s best friend and her enemy, Griffin. The sparks are flying between them stronger than ever and it won’t be long before they become irresistible. Will Penny and Griffin be able to get out of this mess unscathed, both physically and emotionally?
I’m a fan of hockey romance so this one struck my interest. I enjoyed parts of this book, especially the chemistry between Penny and Griffin. Instead of the typical sports romance this one had a mystery thriller aspect that kept the book engaging. While the storyline was intriguing, I’m not a huge fan of any mob storyline so that part didn’t connect with me. Overall it was a good book and I really enjoyed the narration. I would be interested to see what else comes in this series.
I’m a fan of hockey romance so this one struck my interest. I enjoyed parts of this book, especially the chemistry between Penny and Griffin. Instead of the typical sports romance this one had a mystery thriller aspect that kept the book engaging. While the storyline was intriguing, I’m not a huge fan of any mob storyline so that part didn’t connect with me. Overall it was a good book and I really enjoyed the narration. I would be interested to see what else comes in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Diamond Puck-Up is the first book in the Dirty Puckers series. This book is about Penny and Griffin and is told from both of their points of view.
Griffin is best friends and hockey teammates with Penny's brother Dominic. He has always teased Panny like her brother because he didn't want her to know he had real feelings for her. Penny finds vintage jewelry and makes them new. Penny spends way too much on a ring, but when she sees Griffin soon after she shows him and someone steals it right out of his hand.
While Griffin is trying to help Penny find this ring, he realizes the ring wasn't supposed to be for sale, and the person that owned the ring was not on the good side of the law.
While working together to try to find this ring Griffin and Penny start to get real feelings for each other. Can Griffin keep Penny safe from those after her for the ring? What happens when Penny finds out what Griffin has been hiding? How will Penny's brother take their relationship? Will they get their happy ending?
I enjoyed this book, and am excited to continue on in the series.
Griffin is best friends and hockey teammates with Penny's brother Dominic. He has always teased Panny like her brother because he didn't want her to know he had real feelings for her. Penny finds vintage jewelry and makes them new. Penny spends way too much on a ring, but when she sees Griffin soon after she shows him and someone steals it right out of his hand.
While Griffin is trying to help Penny find this ring, he realizes the ring wasn't supposed to be for sale, and the person that owned the ring was not on the good side of the law.
While working together to try to find this ring Griffin and Penny start to get real feelings for each other. Can Griffin keep Penny safe from those after her for the ring? What happens when Penny finds out what Griffin has been hiding? How will Penny's brother take their relationship? Will they get their happy ending?
I enjoyed this book, and am excited to continue on in the series.
October 10, 2025
3.5
Penny Lee es una diseñadora de anillos de compromiso con una curiosa maldición: puede hacer que cualquiera encuentre el amor... menos ella. Entre pedidos personalizados, caídas accidentales y momentos vergonzosos, su vida parece una comedia romántica sin final feliz. Griffin Mahoney, jugador profesional de hockey y mejor amigo de su hermano, lleva años escondiendo un secreto: está perdidamente enamorado de ella. Sin embargo, para proteger su amistad con Dominic y su propio corazón, prefiere fingir indiferencia.
Cuando un malentendido los obliga a pasar más tiempo juntos, las chispas entre ellos se vuelven imposibles de ignorar.
____
Sigo indecisa en la calificación: dejarlo en 3.5 o ponerle 3.
Me cayo mal Dom, él si podía andar de mujeriego, pero su hermana no podía tener pretendientes.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Penny Lee es una diseñadora de anillos de compromiso con una curiosa maldición: puede hacer que cualquiera encuentre el amor... menos ella. Entre pedidos personalizados, caídas accidentales y momentos vergonzosos, su vida parece una comedia romántica sin final feliz. Griffin Mahoney, jugador profesional de hockey y mejor amigo de su hermano, lleva años escondiendo un secreto: está perdidamente enamorado de ella. Sin embargo, para proteger su amistad con Dominic y su propio corazón, prefiere fingir indiferencia.
Cuando un malentendido los obliga a pasar más tiempo juntos, las chispas entre ellos se vuelven imposibles de ignorar.
____
Sigo indecisa en la calificación: dejarlo en 3.5 o ponerle 3.
Me cayo mal Dom, él si podía andar de mujeriego, pero su hermana no podía tener pretendientes.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
October 17, 2025
Title: The Diamond Puck-Up
Author: Lauren Landish
Series: Dirty Puckers #1
What to expect:
*Best friends sister
*Hockey romance
*Found family
Griffin was the typical tough, damaged hockey player but without the man whore persona. I loved how he fought his feelings for years until he just couldn’t do it anymore. The MMC was definitely the best part of this book!
All the FMC kept talking about was that she is a grown, independent woman and she doesn’t need the men in her life to take care of her. Yet, all she does throughout the book is literally walk into doors and trip over her on feet. FMC’s that are written with twelve year old boy humor are just not for me.
Safety:
No OW/OM drama, no third act breakup.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this title!
Format: NetGalley ebook
Genre: Contemporary fiction, romance
Overall score:⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level:🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV’s: Penny (FMC) & Griffin (MMC)
Author: Lauren Landish
Series: Dirty Puckers #1
What to expect:
*Best friends sister
*Hockey romance
*Found family
Griffin was the typical tough, damaged hockey player but without the man whore persona. I loved how he fought his feelings for years until he just couldn’t do it anymore. The MMC was definitely the best part of this book!
All the FMC kept talking about was that she is a grown, independent woman and she doesn’t need the men in her life to take care of her. Yet, all she does throughout the book is literally walk into doors and trip over her on feet. FMC’s that are written with twelve year old boy humor are just not for me.
Safety:
No OW/OM drama, no third act breakup.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this title!
Format: NetGalley ebook
Genre: Contemporary fiction, romance
Overall score:⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level:🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV’s: Penny (FMC) & Griffin (MMC)
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