What do you think?
Rate this book
Pucking Enemies
Some Mistakes you walk away from. Others change everything.
After my ex cheated and a random guy used me for a one-night stand, I made myself a promise. No more hookups. No more heartbreak.
The next guy I let in had to be perfect. Period.
Thankfully, my career was thriving. As lead photographer at ICON Magazine, I landed two big features on the Stanley Cup champs—the Night Hawks.
Even better? My best friend Grace offered me her old apartment in Denver while I worked on the articles.
It felt like a clean slate… until a late-night intruder had me face-to-face with him.
Zander.
The one-night stand.
The guy who disappeared. And now?
The player I’m supposed to photograph—and my unexpected roommate.
Even though he is insanely hot and built like Thor, I refuse to fall for a guy who already broke my trust.
Besides, I just met someone new on a dating app. He’s sweet. Safe. Everything Zander is NOT.
Too bad Zander is impossible to ignore.
As feelings start to surface, so do the secrets. One mistake might cost me the one thing I never saw coming—him.
After my ex cheated and a random guy used me for a one-night stand, I made myself a promise. No more hookups. No more heartbreak.
The next guy I let in had to be perfect. Period.
Thankfully, my career was thriving. As lead photographer at ICON Magazine, I landed two big features on the Stanley Cup champs—the Night Hawks.
Even better? My best friend Grace offered me her old apartment in Denver while I worked on the articles.
It felt like a clean slate… until a late-night intruder had me face-to-face with him.
Zander.
The one-night stand.
The guy who disappeared. And now?
The player I’m supposed to photograph—and my unexpected roommate.
Even though he is insanely hot and built like Thor, I refuse to fall for a guy who already broke my trust.
Besides, I just met someone new on a dating app. He’s sweet. Safe. Everything Zander is NOT.
Too bad Zander is impossible to ignore.
As feelings start to surface, so do the secrets. One mistake might cost me the one thing I never saw coming—him.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 30, 2025
118 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
July 26, 2025
This book has so much healing inside. These characters really make you feel all the emotions of what they are experiencing. Zander, the hockey guy and Rylee, the photographer and journalist! For the first 3/4 of this book I really thought that Zander deserved so much better than what Rylee gave him, however when you put the work in then you deserve a second chance at love.
Honestly my favorite character was Gizmo the cat! He really stole the show, especially in that epilogue!
I did receive this as an arc from the author and it was my first Katie Strong book! If you enjoy forced proximity, cat parents, snarky banter, trauma healing, and love books that have text message bubbles, then be sure to check this one out!
Honestly my favorite character was Gizmo the cat! He really stole the show, especially in that epilogue!
I did receive this as an arc from the author and it was my first Katie Strong book! If you enjoy forced proximity, cat parents, snarky banter, trauma healing, and love books that have text message bubbles, then be sure to check this one out!
July 30, 2025
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
“Pucking Enemies” is the 5th book in the “Night Hawks” series, and I loved Zack and how he met Rylee. Zack is a great character. He is kind, he knows what he wants for life, he’s romantic. He has already tried to find love, but with no success. Zack has to share an apartment with Rylee, the wild photographer and Grace’s friend, who is doing a piece on the team.
Zack is the bachelor of the year, which means they will spend a lot of time together. But while Zack knows what he wants in life, Rylee is unpredictable, she finds a lot of time comfort in getting drunk and makes a lot of mistakes. She’s really imperfect next to Zack, and I think some people will not like her, especially with how she treats him throughout the romance.
Although I thought that Rylee was a good match personality-wise for Zack, she is the chaos in his perfect, ordinary life. They text each other through a dating app, and they seem to really enjoy each other’s company, but even that good piece ends up with them mad at each other. The way Rylee acted sometimes was a little immature. Zack also had his moments, but I felt he acted out of good, and she acted more in and, she needs therapy because she has abandonment issues. Not because of her alcohol problem, but she lacks in communication, and she pushes him back because her mom taught her that love should be perfect. She’s so focused on her mother’s lessons that she forgets to be her own person. At one point, I believe we all were team Zack, and we supported the way he felt and how he acted.
“Pucking Enemies” has a lot of tropes that I believe are not beloved by most people; it has miscommunication, a lot of misunderstandings, a 3rd act breakup and I think the trauma that the FMC has does not portray her in a good light. And let me tell you, even though this book had, again, tropes that I believe a lot of people would be like: eh, not for me, I still liked the book.
I think the author went a little too far with Rylee being all crazy and a whirlwind of emotions, but I think that was exactly what Zack needed. He needed someone to be his opposite. He needed someone to make his life meaningful, and Rylee was that person.
“Pucking Enemies” is an enjoyable book in a very good series, it has some challenges, and the characters are not always perfect, but in the end everyone is happy and they find love even after each other’s mistakes.
“Pucking Enemies” is the 5th book in the “Night Hawks” series, and I loved Zack and how he met Rylee. Zack is a great character. He is kind, he knows what he wants for life, he’s romantic. He has already tried to find love, but with no success. Zack has to share an apartment with Rylee, the wild photographer and Grace’s friend, who is doing a piece on the team.
Zack is the bachelor of the year, which means they will spend a lot of time together. But while Zack knows what he wants in life, Rylee is unpredictable, she finds a lot of time comfort in getting drunk and makes a lot of mistakes. She’s really imperfect next to Zack, and I think some people will not like her, especially with how she treats him throughout the romance.
Although I thought that Rylee was a good match personality-wise for Zack, she is the chaos in his perfect, ordinary life. They text each other through a dating app, and they seem to really enjoy each other’s company, but even that good piece ends up with them mad at each other. The way Rylee acted sometimes was a little immature. Zack also had his moments, but I felt he acted out of good, and she acted more in and, she needs therapy because she has abandonment issues. Not because of her alcohol problem, but she lacks in communication, and she pushes him back because her mom taught her that love should be perfect. She’s so focused on her mother’s lessons that she forgets to be her own person. At one point, I believe we all were team Zack, and we supported the way he felt and how he acted.
“Pucking Enemies” has a lot of tropes that I believe are not beloved by most people; it has miscommunication, a lot of misunderstandings, a 3rd act breakup and I think the trauma that the FMC has does not portray her in a good light. And let me tell you, even though this book had, again, tropes that I believe a lot of people would be like: eh, not for me, I still liked the book.
I think the author went a little too far with Rylee being all crazy and a whirlwind of emotions, but I think that was exactly what Zack needed. He needed someone to be his opposite. He needed someone to make his life meaningful, and Rylee was that person.
“Pucking Enemies” is an enjoyable book in a very good series, it has some challenges, and the characters are not always perfect, but in the end everyone is happy and they find love even after each other’s mistakes.
August 17, 2025
You can read all of my reviews at Nerd Girl Loves Books.
Book 5 of this series features photographer Rylee and NHL player Zander. They have a rocky first meet, a less than stellar second meet, and a scorching hot third meet. Too bad Rylee doesn't seem to remember any of them. Rylee is a photographer for a sports magazine. She lives in Nashville but is assigned to feature the Stanley Cup winning Night Hawks in Denver. She's friends with the wives of a couple players and is offered an apartment in Denver to stay at during her assignment. Problem is, Zander's building is undergoing renovations and he's got to move out during it. He's offered the same apartment until the repairs are done. The couple's fourth meeting is the most awkward of all.
Rylee is one fiery chick and is kind of a hot head which instantly sets Zander off. He can't tell if he's annoyed or turned on by her lively nature. Rylee thinks Zander hit it and quit it during their third encounter (he didn't) and has had it out for Zander ever since. There's no denying the chemistry between the two and they are both surprised when they become jealous while believing the other is dating someone. Their texts and banter is very cute and will make you smile. There is a lot of miscommunication in this story, which is something I normally dislike immensely in a story, but the author does it right here so it doesn't bother me as much.
Rylee has a painful family history which affects her ability to trust in relationships and fuels her tendency to lash out when she feels she's been wronged. When events culminate into the ultimate conflict between the couple, I loved that Zander recognized she needed to face her problems and work them out herself if they were ever going to have a future. Zander is the perfect book boyfriend. He wants a real relationship. He's family focused and isn't a player. He's sweet, thoughtful and caring. Why oh why can't reality mimic fiction? ha ha
I love this series. If you like sweet, steamy sports romance books with humor and found family vibes, you should definitely check it out. Each book is a stand alone and can be read separately and out of order, but you may understand all of the relationships and characters more if you read them in order.
I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
Book 5 of this series features photographer Rylee and NHL player Zander. They have a rocky first meet, a less than stellar second meet, and a scorching hot third meet. Too bad Rylee doesn't seem to remember any of them. Rylee is a photographer for a sports magazine. She lives in Nashville but is assigned to feature the Stanley Cup winning Night Hawks in Denver. She's friends with the wives of a couple players and is offered an apartment in Denver to stay at during her assignment. Problem is, Zander's building is undergoing renovations and he's got to move out during it. He's offered the same apartment until the repairs are done. The couple's fourth meeting is the most awkward of all.
Rylee is one fiery chick and is kind of a hot head which instantly sets Zander off. He can't tell if he's annoyed or turned on by her lively nature. Rylee thinks Zander hit it and quit it during their third encounter (he didn't) and has had it out for Zander ever since. There's no denying the chemistry between the two and they are both surprised when they become jealous while believing the other is dating someone. Their texts and banter is very cute and will make you smile. There is a lot of miscommunication in this story, which is something I normally dislike immensely in a story, but the author does it right here so it doesn't bother me as much.
Rylee has a painful family history which affects her ability to trust in relationships and fuels her tendency to lash out when she feels she's been wronged. When events culminate into the ultimate conflict between the couple, I loved that Zander recognized she needed to face her problems and work them out herself if they were ever going to have a future. Zander is the perfect book boyfriend. He wants a real relationship. He's family focused and isn't a player. He's sweet, thoughtful and caring. Why oh why can't reality mimic fiction? ha ha
I love this series. If you like sweet, steamy sports romance books with humor and found family vibes, you should definitely check it out. Each book is a stand alone and can be read separately and out of order, but you may understand all of the relationships and characters more if you read them in order.
I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
August 4, 2025
🌟 4.5/5 – Enemies-to-Lovers, Ice Rinks, and Way Too Much Tension 🌟
Tropes: Enemies to lovers 😤 • Forced proximity 🛏 • Hockey romance 🏒 • Grumpy/sunshine ☀️🌧 • Found family
Spice Level: Hot enough to fog up the Zamboni 🔥🔥
💭 My Thoughts:
Okay bestie… this book? Had me kicking my feet, cackling, and screaming “JUST KISS ALREADY” every other chapter.
Ava is fierce, witty, and not here for any man’s nonsense—especially not the walking temptation that is Logan Holland. He’s the brooding, annoyingly hot hockey player who also happens to be her ex’s best friend. Whew. The tension? Immediate. And when they end up as roommates? BABY. The walls are thin and the emotional damage is thicker.
But beneath all the insults and snark is real connection. Real trauma. Real growth. And when that guard finally drops? Chef’s kiss.
“You’re infuriating,” I whisper.
“You’re impossible,” he breathes.
Our lips crash together like we’re trying to win a game neither of us signed up to play.
Logan is that perfect balance of tough guy with a soft center. He’s been through it, and Ava—despite her sass—sees right through to his soul. The way they both slowly open up, learn to trust, and fall in actual love? Whew. It’s giving emotional payoff AND spicy reward.
⚠️ Trigger Warnings:
Death of a parent (off-page, referenced multiple times)
Alcohol abuse / toxic parental relationships
Emotional neglect (family-based)
Verbal arguments / emotional vulnerability
Grief, loss, and emotional trauma
“I don’t let people in because the ones I did let in? They left. They all left.”
—Ava, and my heart shattered just a little
📚 Final Thoughts:
Pucking Enemies is funny, flirty, and filled with moments that will make your chest ache in the best way. Katie Strong nails the enemies-to-lovers tension without sacrificing depth. You’ll root for Ava and Logan like they’re your messy but loveable besties who clearly just need one good kiss and a therapy session.
Perfect for readers who love:
Banter with bite
Trauma-informed spice
Sports romance that’s more than just the game
Characters that make mistakes and own them
💅 Would I Recommend It?
Absolutely. Grab your headphones, put on this playlist, and block off a day—you’re gonna binge this one. Ava and Logan’s story is messy, magnetic, and everything I love in a spicy hockey romance.
Tropes: Enemies to lovers 😤 • Forced proximity 🛏 • Hockey romance 🏒 • Grumpy/sunshine ☀️🌧 • Found family
Spice Level: Hot enough to fog up the Zamboni 🔥🔥
💭 My Thoughts:
Okay bestie… this book? Had me kicking my feet, cackling, and screaming “JUST KISS ALREADY” every other chapter.
Ava is fierce, witty, and not here for any man’s nonsense—especially not the walking temptation that is Logan Holland. He’s the brooding, annoyingly hot hockey player who also happens to be her ex’s best friend. Whew. The tension? Immediate. And when they end up as roommates? BABY. The walls are thin and the emotional damage is thicker.
But beneath all the insults and snark is real connection. Real trauma. Real growth. And when that guard finally drops? Chef’s kiss.
“You’re infuriating,” I whisper.
“You’re impossible,” he breathes.
Our lips crash together like we’re trying to win a game neither of us signed up to play.
Logan is that perfect balance of tough guy with a soft center. He’s been through it, and Ava—despite her sass—sees right through to his soul. The way they both slowly open up, learn to trust, and fall in actual love? Whew. It’s giving emotional payoff AND spicy reward.
⚠️ Trigger Warnings:
Death of a parent (off-page, referenced multiple times)
Alcohol abuse / toxic parental relationships
Emotional neglect (family-based)
Verbal arguments / emotional vulnerability
Grief, loss, and emotional trauma
“I don’t let people in because the ones I did let in? They left. They all left.”
—Ava, and my heart shattered just a little
📚 Final Thoughts:
Pucking Enemies is funny, flirty, and filled with moments that will make your chest ache in the best way. Katie Strong nails the enemies-to-lovers tension without sacrificing depth. You’ll root for Ava and Logan like they’re your messy but loveable besties who clearly just need one good kiss and a therapy session.
Perfect for readers who love:
Banter with bite
Trauma-informed spice
Sports romance that’s more than just the game
Characters that make mistakes and own them
💅 Would I Recommend It?
Absolutely. Grab your headphones, put on this playlist, and block off a day—you’re gonna binge this one. Ava and Logan’s story is messy, magnetic, and everything I love in a spicy hockey romance.
July 24, 2025
📚✨ ARC REVIEW ✨📚
Pucking Enemies by Katie Strong
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 (3.5/5 stars)
Thank you to Katie Strong and BookSprout for providing a free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Rylee is in search of the perfect man. After being cheated on by her slimeball ex, she’s done hooking up with losers.
Zander is a hopeless romantic who wants a real relationship with someone who loves him—not his hockey career. He’s not exactly Rylee’s biggest fan (she did puke on him at their first meeting), but when he ends up babysitting a drunk Rylee at a friend’s wedding, sparks fly… and she ends up having the best orgasm of her life. A bizarre miscommunication leaves Rylee believing he ghosted her after a one-night stand.
When her job puts them back in close proximity—sharing professional space and an apartment—tension runs high. But as they open up to each other, they realize their assumptions may have been all wrong. And with the help of a dating app called Cloak, where users fall for each other anonymously without photos and names, they might just fall in love twice.
My favorite part of the book was the Cloak exchanges. Zander, aka GlideControlZ, and Rylee, aka ClickTease, have flirty, quirky banter (reverse centaur or reverse mermaid?) that gives their anonymous connection real spark. The virtual dates were fresh and adorable. As someone who binged Love Is Blind, I was all in.
I also love Rylee's interactions with her friends, the hockey WAGs. They serve her with doses of reality and solid advice when she needs them most. They are a great counter to her mother, who has spent Rylee's entire life drilling into her that she must find the "perfect man."
That said, I struggled with the fact that their first sexual interaction happened while Rylee was drunk. It didn’t sit right with me, especially considering Zander’s otherwise thoughtful and romantic personality. It felt off and made it harder to root for their romance at first.
For fans of:
🏒 Sports romance
👩❤️👨 Enemies(ish) to lovers
📱 Anonymous messaging / mistaken identity
🏡 Forced proximity
#ARCReview #PuckingEnemies #KatieStrong #HockeyRomance #SportsRomance #Bookstagram #EnemiesToLovers #ForcedProximity
Pucking Enemies by Katie Strong
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 (3.5/5 stars)
Thank you to Katie Strong and BookSprout for providing a free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Rylee is in search of the perfect man. After being cheated on by her slimeball ex, she’s done hooking up with losers.
Zander is a hopeless romantic who wants a real relationship with someone who loves him—not his hockey career. He’s not exactly Rylee’s biggest fan (she did puke on him at their first meeting), but when he ends up babysitting a drunk Rylee at a friend’s wedding, sparks fly… and she ends up having the best orgasm of her life. A bizarre miscommunication leaves Rylee believing he ghosted her after a one-night stand.
When her job puts them back in close proximity—sharing professional space and an apartment—tension runs high. But as they open up to each other, they realize their assumptions may have been all wrong. And with the help of a dating app called Cloak, where users fall for each other anonymously without photos and names, they might just fall in love twice.
My favorite part of the book was the Cloak exchanges. Zander, aka GlideControlZ, and Rylee, aka ClickTease, have flirty, quirky banter (reverse centaur or reverse mermaid?) that gives their anonymous connection real spark. The virtual dates were fresh and adorable. As someone who binged Love Is Blind, I was all in.
I also love Rylee's interactions with her friends, the hockey WAGs. They serve her with doses of reality and solid advice when she needs them most. They are a great counter to her mother, who has spent Rylee's entire life drilling into her that she must find the "perfect man."
That said, I struggled with the fact that their first sexual interaction happened while Rylee was drunk. It didn’t sit right with me, especially considering Zander’s otherwise thoughtful and romantic personality. It felt off and made it harder to root for their romance at first.
For fans of:
🏒 Sports romance
👩❤️👨 Enemies(ish) to lovers
📱 Anonymous messaging / mistaken identity
🏡 Forced proximity
#ARCReview #PuckingEnemies #KatieStrong #HockeyRomance #SportsRomance #Bookstagram #EnemiesToLovers #ForcedProximity
August 3, 2025
**ARC REVIEW**
Rylee is this girl with daddy issues, mommy standards and alcohol problems. She works for a top magazine called ICON and she has to do a work on the Night Hawks. Night Hawks is the hockey team in Denver, Colorado where Zander is a player.
Zander is this funny, defense, family guy. He was just selected bachelor of the year by his teammates. So than means he has to work with Rylee, and he doesn’t have the best first impression or second about her.
Just a WILD first meeting (second and third, really), couple of misunderstandings and a forced proximity later they maybe are getting to tolerate each other. Just when they are actually decent with one another things get complicated enough to have you eating your nails wanting to clear the misunderstandings yourself.
This book contains this type of healing we always search for. And it has a way to help us understand that a relationship would always have ups and downs, not always would be 50/50, and it requires not only work but also courage to build.
Tropes:
•miscommunication
•forced proximity
•sport/hockey romance
•enemies-to-lovers
•I wouldn’t say 3rd act break up, but there is something there
•hidden identity/secret chat
I knew since Pucking Secret, that Rylee and Zander were the couple for this book. And I’m pretty sure I know who the next couple would be. Read this amazing interconnected standalone so we could be in the same page about next couple.
Rylee is this girl with daddy issues, mommy standards and alcohol problems. She works for a top magazine called ICON and she has to do a work on the Night Hawks. Night Hawks is the hockey team in Denver, Colorado where Zander is a player.
Zander is this funny, defense, family guy. He was just selected bachelor of the year by his teammates. So than means he has to work with Rylee, and he doesn’t have the best first impression or second about her.
Just a WILD first meeting (second and third, really), couple of misunderstandings and a forced proximity later they maybe are getting to tolerate each other. Just when they are actually decent with one another things get complicated enough to have you eating your nails wanting to clear the misunderstandings yourself.
This book contains this type of healing we always search for. And it has a way to help us understand that a relationship would always have ups and downs, not always would be 50/50, and it requires not only work but also courage to build.
Tropes:
•miscommunication
•forced proximity
•sport/hockey romance
•enemies-to-lovers
•I wouldn’t say 3rd act break up, but there is something there
•hidden identity/secret chat
I knew since Pucking Secret, that Rylee and Zander were the couple for this book. And I’m pretty sure I know who the next couple would be. Read this amazing interconnected standalone so we could be in the same page about next couple.
August 16, 2025
Rylee a photographer and journalist. Her career is thriving ,landing two big lucrative contracts . Just as well she’s done with hookups ,she hasn’t the time. Her ex cheated and the next guy used her ,she’s had enough . The next guy has to be perfection personified . End of discussion. She’s lead photographer for ICON magazine and two big features on the Stanley Cup team Night Hawks ,she’s living the dream and better still ,her friend Grace can put her up in Denver for the duration of her stay , yay! Her old apartment is empty. Until it wasn’t….when a hulk of a man broke in and she comes face to face with her rat of a one night stand! Zander,the guy who fled her bed with nothing said. Zander is hot built like Thor but she’s rather him walk out the door He’s the one she has to photograph too! Oh and turns out he’s her roommate… Although she has to admit their sex was HOT ! They talked it out and came together ,turns out there was some miscommunication on both sides so they draw a line and decide to both find their partners with a new dating app called cloak ,you don’t get names or photos ,just two people chatting .. So now she has a fella albeit online ,they’re talking taking their time and she’s found a guy that Zander definitely is not ….. This is a great plot Katie Strong has got and characters are awesome . The story is told well ,you sold it to me Katie Strong and it’s very well written though ain’t she a pain? She’s well written too and I’m smitten with him
July 19, 2025
Pucking Enemies, the fifth book in the Night Hawks Hockey series by Katie Strong, was sent to me as an ARC to read and review. Prior to this book, I had read the third book in the series, Pucking Secret, which I did enjoy.
In Pucking Enemies we meet Night Hawks hockey star and bachelor Zander Caldwell and Rylee Benson, along with her cat, Gizmo. I’ll be honest, once an animal is introduced in a story, I no longer care about the human characters! When Zander and Rylee first “met”, she threw up on him, and the second time meeting, she falsely accused him of stealing her luggage at the airport. After Rylee has too much to drink at a wedding, Zander makes sure that she gets to her hotel room safely. Things start to get steamy, but when Rylee calls Zander Kodiak, he assumes she is calling him another man’s name and leaves without so much as a goodbye. This leds to Rylee holding a grudge against Zander, and will make things tricky when she’s assigned to cover the Night Hawks team for an article in the magazine she works for and live with Zander due to a misunderstanding when they both need a place to stay. Will they eventually get along and build a strong friendship that turns into more? You’ll have to read to find out!
*There is mention of alcoholism in this book and seeking help for it. Please take that into consideration before reading
In Pucking Enemies we meet Night Hawks hockey star and bachelor Zander Caldwell and Rylee Benson, along with her cat, Gizmo. I’ll be honest, once an animal is introduced in a story, I no longer care about the human characters! When Zander and Rylee first “met”, she threw up on him, and the second time meeting, she falsely accused him of stealing her luggage at the airport. After Rylee has too much to drink at a wedding, Zander makes sure that she gets to her hotel room safely. Things start to get steamy, but when Rylee calls Zander Kodiak, he assumes she is calling him another man’s name and leaves without so much as a goodbye. This leds to Rylee holding a grudge against Zander, and will make things tricky when she’s assigned to cover the Night Hawks team for an article in the magazine she works for and live with Zander due to a misunderstanding when they both need a place to stay. Will they eventually get along and build a strong friendship that turns into more? You’ll have to read to find out!
*There is mention of alcoholism in this book and seeking help for it. Please take that into consideration before reading
July 27, 2025
There are 3 main characters in this 5th book in the Night Hawks hockey series by Katie Strong. Zander Caldwell a hot hockey player who can be all tough on the outside but inside he is just this big romantic teddy bear. Rylee Caldwell a photographer for a big-name sports magazine who is trying to make a name for herself in more ways than one but has some serious issues she needs to deal with. Then there is Gizmo, Rylee’s cat who is a story itself. Through mutual friends/teammates they had met several times but not always in the best circumstances, like being accused of stealing luggage, puking and more. Now they had become roommates by accident. Could they handle the short time together or would assumptions and situations keep them apart?
This is the 5th book in the Night Hawks series by Katie Strong. I loved Zander from the start; I swear these big tough guys are really not as tough as they seem at all. Rylee though I had difficulty with because her answer to all problems she was having was alcohol & getting drunk. Her mother hadn’t always been honest with her about her father & why her brother left which lead to a big part of the problem Rylee had. Yes alcoholism is a disease and not easy to get through at all. So you do need to be prepared for this when you read the book.
Thanks to the author and Booksprout for an ARC of this in exchange for my honest opinion
This is the 5th book in the Night Hawks series by Katie Strong. I loved Zander from the start; I swear these big tough guys are really not as tough as they seem at all. Rylee though I had difficulty with because her answer to all problems she was having was alcohol & getting drunk. Her mother hadn’t always been honest with her about her father & why her brother left which lead to a big part of the problem Rylee had. Yes alcoholism is a disease and not easy to get through at all. So you do need to be prepared for this when you read the book.
Thanks to the author and Booksprout for an ARC of this in exchange for my honest opinion
July 28, 2025
This book had me laughing, crying, rolling my eyes, and every emotion in between. Once I started reading it, I had to put it down when I would get annoyed at a character, but I would quickly come back because I just HAD to know how these situations were going to play out.
Rylee is a photographer. Zander is a hockey player. They two have met multiple times, and while Rylee doesn’t remember, Zander does. There are plenty of misunderstandings between the two of them which lead to both laughs, eye rolls, yelling at them to stop being so stubborn (or maybe that’s just me that yells at characters in books) and lots of tension both of the romantic and non-romantic variety.
It’s clear that everyone in each of their lives just wants what is best for both of them, but sometimes Rylee and Zander can’t see that. When Rylee begins to learn that a lot of things she thought were truths about her life aren’t quite as black and white as they seem, it leads to her realizing that maybe she should be giving Zander a little more grace than she has.
Sometimes you have to get out of your own way to make room for what you need. After all, if her cat Gizmo doesn’t think he’s that bad of a guy, can he really be?
I received an ARC copy, and this is my voluntary review.
Rylee is a photographer. Zander is a hockey player. They two have met multiple times, and while Rylee doesn’t remember, Zander does. There are plenty of misunderstandings between the two of them which lead to both laughs, eye rolls, yelling at them to stop being so stubborn (or maybe that’s just me that yells at characters in books) and lots of tension both of the romantic and non-romantic variety.
It’s clear that everyone in each of their lives just wants what is best for both of them, but sometimes Rylee and Zander can’t see that. When Rylee begins to learn that a lot of things she thought were truths about her life aren’t quite as black and white as they seem, it leads to her realizing that maybe she should be giving Zander a little more grace than she has.
Sometimes you have to get out of your own way to make room for what you need. After all, if her cat Gizmo doesn’t think he’s that bad of a guy, can he really be?
I received an ARC copy, and this is my voluntary review.
Read
July 29, 2025ARC
I absolutely love every moment of this story! Pucking Enemies is a captivating journey that kept me hooked from the very first page. The blurb sets the tone perfectly: after dealing with heartbreak, Rylee is determined to find the perfect guy. Enter Zander, her one-night stand who unexpectedly becomes her roommate.
Katie Strong has a remarkable talent for crafting relatable characters, and I found myself fully invested in Rylees journey as she juggles her thriving career as a photographer for ICON Magazine and her complicated feelings for Zander. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the tension builds beautifully throughout the story.
What I particularly enjoyed was the exploration of trust and vulnerability. Rylees promise to avoid heartbreak adds a layer of suspense, making the stakes feel high as she navigates her feelings. The introduction of 'GlideControlZ also brings an interesting twist that was definitely intriguing.
This series has been a joy to read, and I can't wait for more! If you're looking for a mix of romance, humor, and heartfelt moments, Pucking Enemies is a must-read!
I absolutely love every moment of this story! Pucking Enemies is a captivating journey that kept me hooked from the very first page. The blurb sets the tone perfectly: after dealing with heartbreak, Rylee is determined to find the perfect guy. Enter Zander, her one-night stand who unexpectedly becomes her roommate.
Katie Strong has a remarkable talent for crafting relatable characters, and I found myself fully invested in Rylees journey as she juggles her thriving career as a photographer for ICON Magazine and her complicated feelings for Zander. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the tension builds beautifully throughout the story.
What I particularly enjoyed was the exploration of trust and vulnerability. Rylees promise to avoid heartbreak adds a layer of suspense, making the stakes feel high as she navigates her feelings. The introduction of 'GlideControlZ also brings an interesting twist that was definitely intriguing.
This series has been a joy to read, and I can't wait for more! If you're looking for a mix of romance, humor, and heartfelt moments, Pucking Enemies is a must-read!
July 30, 2025
🏒Sports Romance
♥️Forced Proximity/Roommates
🤬🩷Enemies to Lovers
🥸Mistaken Identity
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Boy meets girl, girl vomits on him. Boy meets girl again, girl calls him a thief. Boy meets girl a third time and well, the third time isn't the charm.
Zander is a hockey player for the Stanley Cup winning Nighthawks and voted by his teammates as the most eligible bachelor for a magazine shoot. He loves his team and his family. He has several meet not cutes with a certain girl he can't get off his mind even after he meets someone on an anonymous dating app called Cloak.
Rylee is a photographer for the sports magazine ICON. After dating the worst and being abandoned by her father, men are enemy number one. When a drunken mistake leads to yet another bad interaction with the male species, a colleague suggests she try the Cloak app.
I loved the snarky banter in this book. The chemistry between Zander and Rylee is hot. I loved Zander from the beginning. Rylee seemed like a hot mess from the start but in a good way. The side characters were very entertaining. I devoured this book.
✨ There are mentions of alcohol abuse.
♥️Forced Proximity/Roommates
🤬🩷Enemies to Lovers
🥸Mistaken Identity
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Boy meets girl, girl vomits on him. Boy meets girl again, girl calls him a thief. Boy meets girl a third time and well, the third time isn't the charm.
Zander is a hockey player for the Stanley Cup winning Nighthawks and voted by his teammates as the most eligible bachelor for a magazine shoot. He loves his team and his family. He has several meet not cutes with a certain girl he can't get off his mind even after he meets someone on an anonymous dating app called Cloak.
Rylee is a photographer for the sports magazine ICON. After dating the worst and being abandoned by her father, men are enemy number one. When a drunken mistake leads to yet another bad interaction with the male species, a colleague suggests she try the Cloak app.
I loved the snarky banter in this book. The chemistry between Zander and Rylee is hot. I loved Zander from the beginning. Rylee seemed like a hot mess from the start but in a good way. The side characters were very entertaining. I devoured this book.
✨ There are mentions of alcohol abuse.
August 2, 2025
I received this book as an arc and I had so many emotions. Tyler is a photographer and journalist for the magazine ICON, and Zander is the sweet hockey player. The beginning and most of the book I despised Rylee because of the things she did. Zander is so sweet and just lovable throughout the book. Closer to the ending, you see why Rylee is the way she is and makes me not hate her as much. Rylee had a lot of healing she needed to do.
I know I make it seem like Zander can do no wrong but there were things he should have done differently. For instance, he should not have kept it a secret that he knew she was Clicktease and he has been talking to her. Buttttt Rylee also should not have gone through his phone. To me going through someone else’s phone without their permission is disrespectful.
The spice level is a 2 for me but for this book the spice was just the right amount.
Would I recommend this book to others? ABSOLUTELY!!
PS. Is there going to be a book on Rylee’s brother Aiden??? That is a story that I would love to read. Who is the girl that made him spiral?
I know I make it seem like Zander can do no wrong but there were things he should have done differently. For instance, he should not have kept it a secret that he knew she was Clicktease and he has been talking to her. Buttttt Rylee also should not have gone through his phone. To me going through someone else’s phone without their permission is disrespectful.
The spice level is a 2 for me but for this book the spice was just the right amount.
Would I recommend this book to others? ABSOLUTELY!!
PS. Is there going to be a book on Rylee’s brother Aiden??? That is a story that I would love to read. Who is the girl that made him spiral?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2025
I can’t say enough good things about Zander! I was thrilled to dive into his story after the heart-wrenching events with Skyler in the previous book. Rhylee is a surprising yet perfect match for him, and Katie truly delivers with their story! The enemies-to-lovers dynamic is beautifully crafted and keeps you hooked.
Katie tackles some deep and important issues, like alcohol abuse and the ways people often use it to hide their true feelings. Rhylee's struggles, shaped by her childhood perception of family, resonate deeply and highlight why she holds such high standards for love. Meanwhile, Zander’s background is different, yet he still faces the painful reality of being treated like a doormat.
One of my favorite elements is the app that facilitates personal connections beyond just physical appearances. It's a refreshing take on modern relationships. Overall, this story is a fantastic read with a satisfying ending that ties everything together perfectly!
Katie tackles some deep and important issues, like alcohol abuse and the ways people often use it to hide their true feelings. Rhylee's struggles, shaped by her childhood perception of family, resonate deeply and highlight why she holds such high standards for love. Meanwhile, Zander’s background is different, yet he still faces the painful reality of being treated like a doormat.
One of my favorite elements is the app that facilitates personal connections beyond just physical appearances. It's a refreshing take on modern relationships. Overall, this story is a fantastic read with a satisfying ending that ties everything together perfectly!
July 28, 2025
I was asked by Katie Strong for my honest review of this book. I was so excited that I was selected to review this book. I have really enjoyed reading hockey romance books so this book I knew was right up my alley. I absolutely loved the main characters in this book. Rylee had so much back history that it made me chuckle. I love how Zander is like this girl is crazy at the beginning then he sees things that catch his eyes. The characters were amazing and I felt like I knew them personally throughout the book. The romance in this book is not sudden at all but slowly builds throughout the book. Then of course there are things that send one or both characters running for a bit away from each other. The story-line kept me reading and sometimes it was hard to put it down. I can't wait to read the other books in the series as this is my first one. I highly recommend checking it out.
July 30, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! This is a hockey romance and it is so well written. The characters and world building is so wonderful you really feel what the characters are feeling. After a string of heartbreaks with previous relationships Rylee our fmc vows to guard her heart and no more casual flings. Until fate lands her sharing an apartment with Zander Caldwell the hockey star who ghosted her after a one night stand. Rylee is assigned to photograph his team and now thrown together as reluctant roommates old wounds and new feelings start to resurface. Rylee and Zander must confront their past mistakes risking heartbreak for an unexpected shot at love. Rylee is torn between the safety of a new online romance and the magnetic pull of Zander . She must navigate tangled feelings and buried secrets risking everything for a love she never saw coming.
August 4, 2025
Teenage crush vibes with spice 🏒 🥵 ❤️
Zander just wants the white picket fence dream. But the one woman who lights him up? Rylee thinks he’s just another cocky hockey playboy.
And Rylee... oh, sweet Rylee. She's guarded, messy, drowning her pain in a bottle and bracing for everyone to leave. She's built walls out of abandonment issues.
Zander’s got one goal: prove he’s more than Rylee’s worst assumptions. And let’s just say he’s a gentleman in the streets and a FREAK in the sheets.
Pucking Enemies is raw, spicy, and emotionally wrecked in the best way. The Night Hawks crew and their girls are so unfiltered and magnetic, I keep forgetting they’re fictional. Yes, I preordered. Yes, I got the ARC. And yes, this series is fully responsible for dragging me into my hockey romance era.
Zander just wants the white picket fence dream. But the one woman who lights him up? Rylee thinks he’s just another cocky hockey playboy.
And Rylee... oh, sweet Rylee. She's guarded, messy, drowning her pain in a bottle and bracing for everyone to leave. She's built walls out of abandonment issues.
Zander’s got one goal: prove he’s more than Rylee’s worst assumptions. And let’s just say he’s a gentleman in the streets and a FREAK in the sheets.
Pucking Enemies is raw, spicy, and emotionally wrecked in the best way. The Night Hawks crew and their girls are so unfiltered and magnetic, I keep forgetting they’re fictional. Yes, I preordered. Yes, I got the ARC. And yes, this series is fully responsible for dragging me into my hockey romance era.
August 7, 2025
I’m a sucker for an ice hockey romance! This is a dual POV with forced proximity, mistaken identity, and enemies to lovers.
Pucking Enemies was a sweet, easy read! My biggest critique is that there were parts that were a little corny, but they were quick and easy to push through. I loved Zander (the MMC) pretty quickly. However, Rylee (the FMC) was a lot at first. I love her revelations and growth towards the end but she’s a big personality for sure.
Since it is book 5 in the Nigh Hawks series, there are references to other couples formed in the other books. However, you definitely can read it as a stand alone. The missing context really doesn’t change the book.
If you’re looking for an easy romance read, I would definitely recommend Pucking Enemies.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Pucking Enemies was a sweet, easy read! My biggest critique is that there were parts that were a little corny, but they were quick and easy to push through. I loved Zander (the MMC) pretty quickly. However, Rylee (the FMC) was a lot at first. I love her revelations and growth towards the end but she’s a big personality for sure.
Since it is book 5 in the Nigh Hawks series, there are references to other couples formed in the other books. However, you definitely can read it as a stand alone. The missing context really doesn’t change the book.
If you’re looking for an easy romance read, I would definitely recommend Pucking Enemies.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 22, 2025
This is it.
Romance is new to me, I’m more of an horror / thriller reader, but it downed on me that it didn’t help my mental issues with anxiety and mid depression.
So I turned to romance, what better than two person fighting for their love?
I read some books about it but this time, this book was so much more than just romance.
It was about righting the wrongs you did that hurt the person you love the most, about sacrificing part of your life for the other.
And I was all in, to the beginning till the end it was so much of an emotional read. But it was so well written and so thoughtful that I was literally addicted to this book !!
Zander and Raylee are so made for each other it’s obvious since the beginning!!
Gizmo also needs some lines, he is the best cat ever (surely over protective in the beginning) but as a cat person I loved him so much !!
I can’t wait to read the other books of the series. And all of Katie Strong books.
Romance is new to me, I’m more of an horror / thriller reader, but it downed on me that it didn’t help my mental issues with anxiety and mid depression.
So I turned to romance, what better than two person fighting for their love?
I read some books about it but this time, this book was so much more than just romance.
It was about righting the wrongs you did that hurt the person you love the most, about sacrificing part of your life for the other.
And I was all in, to the beginning till the end it was so much of an emotional read. But it was so well written and so thoughtful that I was literally addicted to this book !!
Zander and Raylee are so made for each other it’s obvious since the beginning!!
Gizmo also needs some lines, he is the best cat ever (surely over protective in the beginning) but as a cat person I loved him so much !!
I can’t wait to read the other books of the series. And all of Katie Strong books.
July 28, 2025
Zander? OMG absolutely adored him! He was patient, thoughtful, and so genuine throughout the series so finally getting his story was an absolute treat. Rylee on the other hand absolutely stressed me out. It took maybe 2/3 of the book to stop being so frustrated with her, but her character was so well written at the same time. I was absolutely ready to fight Rylee because Zander deserved better, not that he was perfectly innocent in all things either. Getting her backstory and finding out the why of what she does made all her decisions make sense for her. Her struggles with alcohol, but not acknowledging she has a problem was soooo real and well written as well. This series as a whole has been great, and there were high hopes for this book, which didn't disappoint at all.
July 29, 2025
She is a photographer who has been assigned to do an article on his hockey team. After a miscommunication they end up sharing an apartment. He knows exactly who she is, however her memories are not at all clear regarding their past. Will the article and the close proximity bring them together? Or will her past family trauma be the one thing that keeps them apart. I came into this series late. However, there is enough back story to help you understand without feeling lost. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait to not only go back and read the ones I missed but the upcoming story of Sutton is sure to be another winner. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by booksprout.
July 30, 2025
Letting Go of the Past to Have a Great Future -
This is a heartfelt second chance hockey romance with an emotion filled issue woven into the story to ensure the reader had a strong emotional impact whilst reading the book. My level of expectation after reading books one to four was really high and in my humble opinion, I believe Katie Strong definitely didn’t disappoint me. It took me the entire day to read this book, so I suggest you grab a copy of this book, ensure your next Saturday is free, switch off your phone, get yourself a drink and find a place to relax, then start reading this fantastic, entertaining book.
I received a free review copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a heartfelt second chance hockey romance with an emotion filled issue woven into the story to ensure the reader had a strong emotional impact whilst reading the book. My level of expectation after reading books one to four was really high and in my humble opinion, I believe Katie Strong definitely didn’t disappoint me. It took me the entire day to read this book, so I suggest you grab a copy of this book, ensure your next Saturday is free, switch off your phone, get yourself a drink and find a place to relax, then start reading this fantastic, entertaining book.
I received a free review copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 3, 2025
I received a free copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review. This is the first book I have read by Katie Strong. I do not want to write a book report and give away the story but tell you what I thought of the story.
I understand this is in a series and you can read this as a stand alone. I however will read the other books in the series.
I had many feelings while reading the book, there was one storyline I could predict the outcome however when it was uncovered how it happened it surprised me. There are some twists and turns throughout the story. All is not how it appears. The main female character had a lot going on that takes a while for all to come out. I loved the characters I hated them I rooted for them I cried for them. I was happy with ending.
I understand this is in a series and you can read this as a stand alone. I however will read the other books in the series.
I had many feelings while reading the book, there was one storyline I could predict the outcome however when it was uncovered how it happened it surprised me. There are some twists and turns throughout the story. All is not how it appears. The main female character had a lot going on that takes a while for all to come out. I loved the characters I hated them I rooted for them I cried for them. I was happy with ending.
July 17, 2025
Trauma And Alcohol Make A Mess
I just loved Gizmo! <3 <3 But it took me awhile to find some sympathy for Rylee, childish behavior and running away when embarrassed and getting drunk at the wrong time with the wrong (or none) memories, but learning where it all came from, released my understanding. I really like this group of hockey players and their love stories, therefore this one was a bit disappointing at first. Zander is such a sweet, authentic, caring person and Rylee is a very lucky woman to have him in her life. Fortunately, she realizes this in the end.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I just loved Gizmo! <3 <3 But it took me awhile to find some sympathy for Rylee, childish behavior and running away when embarrassed and getting drunk at the wrong time with the wrong (or none) memories, but learning where it all came from, released my understanding. I really like this group of hockey players and their love stories, therefore this one was a bit disappointing at first. Zander is such a sweet, authentic, caring person and Rylee is a very lucky woman to have him in her life. Fortunately, she realizes this in the end.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 25, 2025
Rylee is the “by the seat of her pants” friend of Grace and Skylar. She is a “take no crap” kind of girl, but she has demons that are hard to not listen to. Zander is the Big, burly teddy bear that lets things slide off his calm demeanor. But he knows there is something missing that he just can’t seem to touch, that he sees happening with each of his team mates.
Knowing that he sees something that he just can’t let go of, Zander sets his eyes on his prize and waits out his project timing. But will Rylee see him for the person he is, the fun loving, easy going hockey play with a gentle heart? Or will she self sabotage and set her life on fire, when it means the most?
Rylee and Zander are perfect idea of opposite attract. You can see all the feels come off the page as you read this story. I absolutely loved this book and could not put it down. I consumed this book in one sitting and had to devour it. After reading the first 3, I waited patiently for this one to come out and will be patiently waiting for the next one.
Knowing that he sees something that he just can’t let go of, Zander sets his eyes on his prize and waits out his project timing. But will Rylee see him for the person he is, the fun loving, easy going hockey play with a gentle heart? Or will she self sabotage and set her life on fire, when it means the most?
Rylee and Zander are perfect idea of opposite attract. You can see all the feels come off the page as you read this story. I absolutely loved this book and could not put it down. I consumed this book in one sitting and had to devour it. After reading the first 3, I waited patiently for this one to come out and will be patiently waiting for the next one.
July 22, 2025
3.5 stars - I love this series, but found the female lead hard to like for the majority of this book.
This is a great series and I have loved all the books in this series, especially the first four. This book was much harder as it covered some hard topics, but also the heroine was completely unlikeable for the first 85% of the book. There was redemption and a great end to the story and a wonderful HEA.
Zander the hero of this story is fabulous and has the patience of a saint. It was also great to see all the other characters from previous books. Worth persevering, as I wouldn’t want to miss an instalment of this series.
I voluntarily reviewed and an advanced copy of this book.
This is a great series and I have loved all the books in this series, especially the first four. This book was much harder as it covered some hard topics, but also the heroine was completely unlikeable for the first 85% of the book. There was redemption and a great end to the story and a wonderful HEA.
Zander the hero of this story is fabulous and has the patience of a saint. It was also great to see all the other characters from previous books. Worth persevering, as I wouldn’t want to miss an instalment of this series.
I voluntarily reviewed and an advanced copy of this book.
July 28, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed returning to the Night Hawks world and all the characters I have come to love. Rylee and Zander are featured in this book. The twists are predictable but flow well as they are revealed. Rylee has a lot of trust issues from events throughout her life. She learns a lot about herself and does a lot of growing throughout the story. Zander has some things to work through where Rylee is concerned but he was a great guy from the beginning to the end of the journey. They may not have been perfect but they were perfect for each other.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 8, 2025
What happens when a photographer gets job in Denver covering the Night Hawks and is in close proximity to a man that gave her the best O of her life? Definitely nothing bad right?
The banter between Zander and Rylee is just top tier for me. You never know whether they are about to rip the other's head off or have dirty hot sexy time 🤣 Also the nicknames are the cutest.
This book was a rollercoaster towards the end, I really was nervous about what was going to end up happening. I loved every minute of my time with Rylee and Zander, I can't believe it is already over but I'm obsessed with the Night Hawks and I can't wait to see what happens next in the series.
The banter between Zander and Rylee is just top tier for me. You never know whether they are about to rip the other's head off or have dirty hot sexy time 🤣 Also the nicknames are the cutest.
This book was a rollercoaster towards the end, I really was nervous about what was going to end up happening. I loved every minute of my time with Rylee and Zander, I can't believe it is already over but I'm obsessed with the Night Hawks and I can't wait to see what happens next in the series.
July 27, 2025
Every time I read a new book in the Nighthawks Hockey series, I fall in love with the couple it is about! And it has happened once again! Zander and Rylee are my new favorites!
Katie Strong’s characters are so well developed, believable, and easily identified with, you cannot help but become invested in their lives!
Zander and Rylee have a loooonnngggg road to coupledom with a number of pitfalls in their path.
Beautifully written with hot hockey players, the women of their dreams, and a whole lot of steam, Pucking Enemies earns five stars from me!
A MUST READ!
Katie Strong’s characters are so well developed, believable, and easily identified with, you cannot help but become invested in their lives!
Zander and Rylee have a loooonnngggg road to coupledom with a number of pitfalls in their path.
Beautifully written with hot hockey players, the women of their dreams, and a whole lot of steam, Pucking Enemies earns five stars from me!
A MUST READ!
July 28, 2025
Pucking Enemies was a deep and emotional read. I loved watching Rylee and Zander's story unfold. Both characters did a lot of healing and growing throughout the book. I loved most of the tropes (forced proximity, one bed). The only trope I am realizing I am not fond of is the third act break up.
Even though it is part of an interconnected series, I was able to read it as a standalone (though I will go back and read the others).
Thank you to Booksprout for the ARC and letting me leave a voluntary review!
Even though it is part of an interconnected series, I was able to read it as a standalone (though I will go back and read the others).
Thank you to Booksprout for the ARC and letting me leave a voluntary review!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews