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LA Vipers #2
Playing the Pucking Game
An all-new steamy and angsty Forbidden Ice Hockey Romance from the USA Today & Wall Street Journal bestselling author, Tracy Lorraine.
Lincoln Storm.
Hockey god.
My brother’s best friend.
And now … my roommate.
The new year was supposed to be my clean slate. I finally landed my dream job—assistant athletic trainer for the LA Vipers.
But before I even set foot in the arena, my apartment goes up in flames.
Enter Lincoln. All swagger, playboy grin, and the man I’ve spent a decade pretending I hate.
To the world, he’s all cocky charm and playful smiles.
To me? He’s infuriating. Impossible. And dangerously close to my heart.
Now we’re sharing a roof. Traveling with the same team. Breathing the same air.
I’ve worked too hard to prove myself in a man’s world. I’m strong. Independent. Unstoppable.
There’s only one weakness I can’t shake.
Him.
Dear Reader,
Playing The Pucking Game is a standalone brother's best friend, workplace (hockey player and athletic trainer), roommate romance, set within my LA Vipers series. If you love forced proximity, and a second chance with a reformed playboy then you need to meet Lincoln Storm.
Lincoln Storm.
Hockey god.
My brother’s best friend.
And now … my roommate.
The new year was supposed to be my clean slate. I finally landed my dream job—assistant athletic trainer for the LA Vipers.
But before I even set foot in the arena, my apartment goes up in flames.
Enter Lincoln. All swagger, playboy grin, and the man I’ve spent a decade pretending I hate.
To the world, he’s all cocky charm and playful smiles.
To me? He’s infuriating. Impossible. And dangerously close to my heart.
Now we’re sharing a roof. Traveling with the same team. Breathing the same air.
I’ve worked too hard to prove myself in a man’s world. I’m strong. Independent. Unstoppable.
There’s only one weakness I can’t shake.
Him.
Dear Reader,
Playing The Pucking Game is a standalone brother's best friend, workplace (hockey player and athletic trainer), roommate romance, set within my LA Vipers series. If you love forced proximity, and a second chance with a reformed playboy then you need to meet Lincoln Storm.
648 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 23, 2025
332 people are currently reading
358 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Lorraine
264 books3,830 followersTracy Lorraine is a M/F and M/M contemporary romance author. Tracy has just turned thirty and lives in a cute Cotswold village in England with her husband, baby girl and lovable but slightly crazy dog. Having always been a bookaholic with her head stuck in her Kindle Tracy decided to try her hand at a story idea she dreamt up and hasn’t looked back since.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
October 27, 2025
Tracy Lorraine is known for her heated, fast chemistry, but in playing the pucking game, we get a slow burn that feels everlasting.
Parker is starting a new job working with the LA Vipers. Her bestie is already dating one of the team, and her brother’s best friend is also a player.
Linc has been in Parker’s life for a long time. He might have been best friends with her brother but this guy has always shown up when it counts. You’d like that would make him perfect, right? Parker has never truly trusted Linc when it comes to her heart. But now they’re working together, he’s set on winning her over.
The LA Vipers series is one of family and community. You love one, and you end up loving them all. Another great book by Tracy Lorraine.
Parker is starting a new job working with the LA Vipers. Her bestie is already dating one of the team, and her brother’s best friend is also a player.
Linc has been in Parker’s life for a long time. He might have been best friends with her brother but this guy has always shown up when it counts. You’d like that would make him perfect, right? Parker has never truly trusted Linc when it comes to her heart. But now they’re working together, he’s set on winning her over.
The LA Vipers series is one of family and community. You love one, and you end up loving them all. Another great book by Tracy Lorraine.
October 29, 2025
Playing the Pucking Game was absolutely brilliant. Tracy has once again done a phenomenal job. Lincoln and Parker story was great from start to finish. I honestly couldn’t get enough of these two. This story had it all brothers best friend, hockey, closed proximity and everything in between. And let’s not forget about the slow burn. The build up between these two was absolutely incredible.
Parker has everything she worked for her dream job. Being an athletic trainer for the L.A Vipers. Being the only women on the team she has a lot to prove. To herself, co-workers and the players too. She can’t messed that up even starting a relationship with her brother best friend. But when her apartments goes up in flames the one person who she turnes too. The one she pretends to hate Lincoln Storm.
Lincoln is one of the best hockey player. He has everything he can possibly need. Fame. Women. Money. He cares about his teammates and has a great relationship with them. He is adorable with Kodie’s little girl Sutton. He also loves to push Parker buttons (best friend little sister). When her life literally goes up in smoke he is there. He comes to her aide. Offers her a place to stay. When their relationship turns into something more, you see they both have been harboring feelings for one another.
You’ll see how they will navigate this new budding relationship. All the highs and lows. Being roommates, colleagues and everything in between. You’ll see see how everything it will unravel not only with the team but also with one other person they both care about her brother. I absolutely loved everything about this phenomenal story. Seeing new and old friends is always icing on the cake. I’m obsessed with this world Tracy has created. And so excited to continue with Freya and Cole next. 💚🏒
Arc provided for honest review.
Parker has everything she worked for her dream job. Being an athletic trainer for the L.A Vipers. Being the only women on the team she has a lot to prove. To herself, co-workers and the players too. She can’t messed that up even starting a relationship with her brother best friend. But when her apartments goes up in flames the one person who she turnes too. The one she pretends to hate Lincoln Storm.
Lincoln is one of the best hockey player. He has everything he can possibly need. Fame. Women. Money. He cares about his teammates and has a great relationship with them. He is adorable with Kodie’s little girl Sutton. He also loves to push Parker buttons (best friend little sister). When her life literally goes up in smoke he is there. He comes to her aide. Offers her a place to stay. When their relationship turns into something more, you see they both have been harboring feelings for one another.
You’ll see how they will navigate this new budding relationship. All the highs and lows. Being roommates, colleagues and everything in between. You’ll see see how everything it will unravel not only with the team but also with one other person they both care about her brother. I absolutely loved everything about this phenomenal story. Seeing new and old friends is always icing on the cake. I’m obsessed with this world Tracy has created. And so excited to continue with Freya and Cole next. 💚🏒
Arc provided for honest review.
October 25, 2025
Playing the Picking Game is the second book in the LA Vipers series and I loved it .Oh my , all the angst and the tension, the crazy hot chemistry and that steam made that slow burn so intense . And the slowest ever. But Link and Parker were killing it slowly while they get to know the people they grew up to be . Parker was at odds with him and was rejecting his every attempt to reconnect. Their witty banter and the constant sarcastic remarks were their way of communication. But despite everything in a time of need Link was Parker's knight in shining armor and saved her day . He took care of her when she needed it the most but with all that blasts from the past is obvious that he was always there for her . Parker just didn't want to jeopardize her job and their friendship. I loved seeing Parker at her work interacting with the other players and how fast they accepted her as one of them. Loved it that there was more of Kodie , Casey and Sutton.
I loved Link and Parker's story so much. And now I can't wait for the next book!!!
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of this book.
I loved Link and Parker's story so much. And now I can't wait for the next book!!!
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of this book.
October 23, 2025
ARC Review 📖
Playing the Pucking Game
LA Vipers Book 2
Written by Tracy Lorraine
@tracy_lorraine_author
I am obsessed with these two as much as they’re obsessed with each other even if they are both suppressing feelings. They have a great chemistry but something happened in the past that had hurt them both and they both can't seem to get past it. This is definitely a slow burn and I'm just going along for the ride and loving it.
Hot damn! I thought the chemistry between Kodie and Casey was off the charts but these two have a lot of pent-up chemistry since they were teens when they started to give in it's intensely hot. I thought she was obsessed with him but Linc blows the word obsessed right out of the water he has and will do anything for her and he always will. It's so heart warming and swoon-worthy!
Tracy has done it again. I will literally read anything she writes and I almost have. This book made me obsessed to pick it back up whenever I could. From start to finish the story and chemistry between these two characters was so intriguing.
#hockeyromance
#sportsromace
#TracyLorraine
#itsalwaysbeenyou
#forheadkisses
#shewearshisjersey
#roommates
#brothersbestfriend
#Bestfriendslittlesister
#athletictrainer
#hockeyplayer
#formerplayboy
#closeproximity
#slowburn
#workplaceromancr
#childhoodcrush
#sweetheart
#LittleP
#babe
#doc
#prettygirl
#Mygirl
#storm
#hatetolove
#banter
#mine
Playing the Pucking Game
LA Vipers Book 2
Written by Tracy Lorraine
@tracy_lorraine_author
I am obsessed with these two as much as they’re obsessed with each other even if they are both suppressing feelings. They have a great chemistry but something happened in the past that had hurt them both and they both can't seem to get past it. This is definitely a slow burn and I'm just going along for the ride and loving it.
Hot damn! I thought the chemistry between Kodie and Casey was off the charts but these two have a lot of pent-up chemistry since they were teens when they started to give in it's intensely hot. I thought she was obsessed with him but Linc blows the word obsessed right out of the water he has and will do anything for her and he always will. It's so heart warming and swoon-worthy!
Tracy has done it again. I will literally read anything she writes and I almost have. This book made me obsessed to pick it back up whenever I could. From start to finish the story and chemistry between these two characters was so intriguing.
#hockeyromance
#sportsromace
#TracyLorraine
#itsalwaysbeenyou
#forheadkisses
#shewearshisjersey
#roommates
#brothersbestfriend
#Bestfriendslittlesister
#athletictrainer
#hockeyplayer
#formerplayboy
#closeproximity
#slowburn
#workplaceromancr
#childhoodcrush
#sweetheart
#LittleP
#babe
#doc
#prettygirl
#Mygirl
#storm
#hatetolove
#banter
#mine
October 23, 2025
Playing the Pucking Game is the second book in the LA Vipers series. It is a slow-burn, brother's best friend, roommates, hockey romance with taboo and comedic vibes. The story is told in first person, dual POV.
This was such an amazing story. I loved the angst, the banter, and the chemistry between Parker and Linc. I loved how protective and possessive he is of her. I adored the sense of family and the support of each other between the hockey team members. The characters, both main and supporting, were all amazing.
The writing, pace, flow, and plot of the story were fabulous, as were the characters, character development, relationship development, storytelling, storyline, and world building.
If you love a great, slow-burn romance with a fiercely independent FMC, and a misunderstood MMC, then I'd definitely recommend this book.
This was such an amazing story. I loved the angst, the banter, and the chemistry between Parker and Linc. I loved how protective and possessive he is of her. I adored the sense of family and the support of each other between the hockey team members. The characters, both main and supporting, were all amazing.
The writing, pace, flow, and plot of the story were fabulous, as were the characters, character development, relationship development, storytelling, storyline, and world building.
If you love a great, slow-burn romance with a fiercely independent FMC, and a misunderstood MMC, then I'd definitely recommend this book.
October 25, 2025
Linc and Parker are not new friends or old enemies. They aren't acquaintances or former lovers. They are something much more complicated, or at least that's what they think based on a past that involved an older brother who was also a best friend, a crush, forbidden feelings, reckless interactions, celebrity spotlight, miscommunication and well a lack of life experiences.
Now all of these things don't happen in this order or all at once, because I don't want to ruin any of this really heartwarming second chance love for anyone. It's a long slow burn, but the burn is written so well I didn't lose interest and stayed invested in their journey. The banter and chemistry made the length of the book feel only about half its size. So if you're looking for a book to snuggle up with for the weekend this is it.
I have voluntarily left this review.
Now all of these things don't happen in this order or all at once, because I don't want to ruin any of this really heartwarming second chance love for anyone. It's a long slow burn, but the burn is written so well I didn't lose interest and stayed invested in their journey. The banter and chemistry made the length of the book feel only about half its size. So if you're looking for a book to snuggle up with for the weekend this is it.
I have voluntarily left this review.
October 22, 2025
Just like Linc this book is thick in the best way!
It doesn’t matter if it’s 100 pages or 600+ pages, if it’s a dark, bully romance or an emotional, hockey romance, if Tracy writes it, I am going to read it. In this case we get an emotionally charged second chance 600+ page hockey story that I couldn’t put down all weekend.
Linc and Parker have had an emotional connection for years, but the timing was never quite right. And after an event neither could have predicted Linc sees an opportunity to finally get his girl and he’s not going to miss his chance.
This is the second book in in Tracy’s LA Vipers series, and each book can be read as a standalone, I’m not that kind of reader though, I always have to start at the beginning, but with Tracy that is not a problem, because I simply love how she tells a story. Do not miss out on this one, it’s definitely too good to miss!
It doesn’t matter if it’s 100 pages or 600+ pages, if it’s a dark, bully romance or an emotional, hockey romance, if Tracy writes it, I am going to read it. In this case we get an emotionally charged second chance 600+ page hockey story that I couldn’t put down all weekend.
Linc and Parker have had an emotional connection for years, but the timing was never quite right. And after an event neither could have predicted Linc sees an opportunity to finally get his girl and he’s not going to miss his chance.
This is the second book in in Tracy’s LA Vipers series, and each book can be read as a standalone, I’m not that kind of reader though, I always have to start at the beginning, but with Tracy that is not a problem, because I simply love how she tells a story. Do not miss out on this one, it’s definitely too good to miss!
December 28, 2025
It's New Year’s Eve and the owner of the Vipers is throwing the team party. People are excited because they are closer than they’ve been in a long time to the Stanley Cup. Now Parker Donnelly’s ride-or-die girlie, Casey Watson, is paired up with Kodie River, so it's almost midnight and Casey is worried Parker won’t have anyone to kiss. “Next year, is your year, I can feel it. Please don't start it alone. Parker doesn't seem worried. Sutton and Kodie come to collect her. Go, just go.”
On the outside, she is not showing her loneliness and sadness because she just achieved her biggest dream ever and starts her new career on Monday. And that’s being one of the first women to be a professional trainer for the NHL. It's been her dream ever since she and Casey figured out that women would never be taken seriously in the world of hockey on the ice. Not that they are not good and can sometimes out skate some men, but the stigma is too strong. So she found her niche in sports medicine.
She stepped up to the bar when she became aware that someone was standing beside her. By the cologne, she doesn't need to turn, she knows it’s a hockey player. Her only question was which one? When she’s served her double Jack and Coke. She hears a familiar deep raspy voice say, “Something wrong with all the champagne that’s being passed around?” Her spine stiffens, igniting irritation everywhere it goes. Closing her eyes, she silently wills the man next to her away.
This is not how she wants to spend the end of this year and the beginning of the next. But she already knows she’s not that lucky. “It's almost midnight Donnelly.” “That means what, exactly? You going to turn back into a pumpkin?” One side of Lincoln Storm’s mouth kicks up in amusement. “I didn’t have you down as a fairy tale fan.” She sneers at him. “You’re even hotter when you’re drunk.” “I’m done here,” she says, lifting her glass from the bar and walking away.
She makes it four steps before everyone around her begins counting down. Ten. Nine. Eight. She looks around the room at the couples and groups of friends excited to welcome in a new year. Parker understands why the Vipers are happy. They’re having their best season in years. There is a very good chance that this is going to be the first time in almost a decade that they make it to the playoffs. Seven. Six. Five. Fletcher has his arms around his wife Reese’s waist. Kodie is gazing into Casey’s eyes.
The other couples on the team are ready. Four. Three. Two. And Parker is standing there with only her drink to celebrate with. F--k. She hopes Casey is right. She hopes next year is her year. One. Cheers erupt as kids pull party poppers, shooting confetti everywhere. She’s about to lift her drink to her lips in a private celebration with herself when a hand wraps around the back of her neck. Before she knows what’s happening, a warm pair of lips presses against hers.
It takes her a second for her brain to catch up, and the second it does, she raises her glass higher and dumps the contents all over Lincoln Storm’s head. “The f--k, Donnelly?” he barks as her Jack and Coke soaks his hair and runs down the sides of his face. “Happy New Year, Storm. It can only get better from here.” He stares at her, his eyes wide with disbelief, his chest heaving. He shouldn’t look as good as he does right now with her drink dripping from his chin, soaking his white button-down.
Amusement explodes inside her, but she smothers it, the slight tugging at the corners of her lips the only evidence. His gaze darkens as his jaw tics. Lincoln Storm is dangerous. To her heart that is. He always has been. She remembers that very first time her big brother brought him home for a play date. Yup! You see there is a long-standing history between these two, and rivalry has not always been their story. In fact, Parker had a crush on her big brother's bestie, and it went deep. But their attraction came at the wrong time, and just after a hockey player had damaged her heart. Now that time has passed, and Linc is ready to show Parker he can be the man she has never taken the time to truly notice.
On the outside, she is not showing her loneliness and sadness because she just achieved her biggest dream ever and starts her new career on Monday. And that’s being one of the first women to be a professional trainer for the NHL. It's been her dream ever since she and Casey figured out that women would never be taken seriously in the world of hockey on the ice. Not that they are not good and can sometimes out skate some men, but the stigma is too strong. So she found her niche in sports medicine.
She stepped up to the bar when she became aware that someone was standing beside her. By the cologne, she doesn't need to turn, she knows it’s a hockey player. Her only question was which one? When she’s served her double Jack and Coke. She hears a familiar deep raspy voice say, “Something wrong with all the champagne that’s being passed around?” Her spine stiffens, igniting irritation everywhere it goes. Closing her eyes, she silently wills the man next to her away.
This is not how she wants to spend the end of this year and the beginning of the next. But she already knows she’s not that lucky. “It's almost midnight Donnelly.” “That means what, exactly? You going to turn back into a pumpkin?” One side of Lincoln Storm’s mouth kicks up in amusement. “I didn’t have you down as a fairy tale fan.” She sneers at him. “You’re even hotter when you’re drunk.” “I’m done here,” she says, lifting her glass from the bar and walking away.
She makes it four steps before everyone around her begins counting down. Ten. Nine. Eight. She looks around the room at the couples and groups of friends excited to welcome in a new year. Parker understands why the Vipers are happy. They’re having their best season in years. There is a very good chance that this is going to be the first time in almost a decade that they make it to the playoffs. Seven. Six. Five. Fletcher has his arms around his wife Reese’s waist. Kodie is gazing into Casey’s eyes.
The other couples on the team are ready. Four. Three. Two. And Parker is standing there with only her drink to celebrate with. F--k. She hopes Casey is right. She hopes next year is her year. One. Cheers erupt as kids pull party poppers, shooting confetti everywhere. She’s about to lift her drink to her lips in a private celebration with herself when a hand wraps around the back of her neck. Before she knows what’s happening, a warm pair of lips presses against hers.
It takes her a second for her brain to catch up, and the second it does, she raises her glass higher and dumps the contents all over Lincoln Storm’s head. “The f--k, Donnelly?” he barks as her Jack and Coke soaks his hair and runs down the sides of his face. “Happy New Year, Storm. It can only get better from here.” He stares at her, his eyes wide with disbelief, his chest heaving. He shouldn’t look as good as he does right now with her drink dripping from his chin, soaking his white button-down.
Amusement explodes inside her, but she smothers it, the slight tugging at the corners of her lips the only evidence. His gaze darkens as his jaw tics. Lincoln Storm is dangerous. To her heart that is. He always has been. She remembers that very first time her big brother brought him home for a play date. Yup! You see there is a long-standing history between these two, and rivalry has not always been their story. In fact, Parker had a crush on her big brother's bestie, and it went deep. But their attraction came at the wrong time, and just after a hockey player had damaged her heart. Now that time has passed, and Linc is ready to show Parker he can be the man she has never taken the time to truly notice.
January 17, 2026
Brother’s best friend, second chance, boy obsessed, it’s always been you hockey romance
4.25⭐️ 2-2.5🌶️ PLAYING THE PUCKING GAME by Tracy Lorraine. 🫶🏻 This is book 2 in the LA Vipers hockey 🏒 series. I’m a sucker for a down bad, possessive, tattooed hockey player that has been pining for his girl for YEARS, and Tracy delivered. Add in that it’s a slow burn, second chance-ish romance between childhood friends and he says things like “I’ve got you”? I melt. 🫠 It was a bit long but trust me the ending is worth it; Tracy knows how to write characters with solid growth, real, authentic relationships, found family, and spice.
Parker Donnelly is the team’s new assistant athletic trainer. Lincoln Storm is the cocky, arrogant playboy hockey god, her brother’s best friend, and her new roommate. She refuses to date hockey players since her ex is one. Just one minor problem that she’s had a crush on Lincoln since she was a teenager, even though to outsiders it looks like she hates him. She knows exactly what she wants in life but she has trouble resisting him. He’s got a happy-go-lucky personality but he doesn’t show the world him being vulnerable - what Parker gets to see. She’s got her dream job in a male-dominated industry and doesn’t want a distraction. He likes to rile her up and get a reaction out of her. 6 years ago something happened between them, and he’s been shoving down his feelings since. He knows if she gives him the chance he’s been waiting for that he will be so good to her.
She doesn’t trust men but she’s learning that Linc can be sweet, supportive, and a good friend. He’s been the player - the life of the party. Or that’s what everyone thinks of him. Then he says the most perfect things, and holds her, and can’t sleep without her. He arranges NYC adventures since it’s her first time there. When he tells her that he will give her anything, Parker doesn’t believe him. But he truly means it. She’s someone he thinks he can’t have - He thinks he isn’t good enough for her. She said she’d never again be in a relationship with a hockey player but she’s realizing that Linc is so much more than just a hockey player. She’s the only thing he sees, the only woman he’s ever truly wanted. He’s always been there, showing her she’s special. He proves to her that he will do anything for her - that nothing ever is too much for her.
❤️ Their love language is irritating each other
❤️ It drives him insane that other men get to see her 🍑 in leggings 🤣
❤️ He makes her iced coffee ☕️ and breakfast
❤️ He calls her ‘Little P’.
❤️ I love their flirty banter - he calls her brat, she calls him player.
❤️ He gets jealous when she’s wearing a man’s hoodie 🤣 then proceeds to give her his. 🤭
❤️ Hoodie + sweatpants + backwards 🧢 🥵
❤️ ‘good girl’ 😮💨
❤️ He washes her hair 🩷
❤️ He cleans 👅 his fingers
❤️ He pushes it 💦 back in
Favorite quotes:
"You said that I've never been serious about anyone in my entire life. But you're wrong. I have."
“A hockey puck doesn't count."
"No, but you do."
‘She's my endgame. Always has been, always will be.’
‘Lifting the cup to my lips, I groan as the mix of rich coffee and sweet caramel hits my
tongue. He even got a double shot. This is book boyfriend material - and that is very, very dangerous.’
‘Why does he have to show me this side of him again? It's not fair. He can't be that hot and this thoughtful and kind. I don't stand a chance.’
"I'm just...I'm all in, Parker. I need you to know that. We can keep it under wraps for as long as you want. We can take it as slow as you want. Anything. Just...be mine. Please.”
"I want this. Us. I always have.”
"I love you, pretty girl. Thank you for com-
ing back to me."
Read this if you like:
*Hockey romance
*Brother’s best friend/best friend’s sister
*Childhood friends
*Forbidden/workplace romance
*Forced proximity
*Strong, independent FMC
*Possessive & tattooed MMC
*Boy obsessed
*It’s always been you
*Banter
*Found family
Content warning: death of parent
4.25⭐️ 2-2.5🌶️ PLAYING THE PUCKING GAME by Tracy Lorraine. 🫶🏻 This is book 2 in the LA Vipers hockey 🏒 series. I’m a sucker for a down bad, possessive, tattooed hockey player that has been pining for his girl for YEARS, and Tracy delivered. Add in that it’s a slow burn, second chance-ish romance between childhood friends and he says things like “I’ve got you”? I melt. 🫠 It was a bit long but trust me the ending is worth it; Tracy knows how to write characters with solid growth, real, authentic relationships, found family, and spice.
Parker Donnelly is the team’s new assistant athletic trainer. Lincoln Storm is the cocky, arrogant playboy hockey god, her brother’s best friend, and her new roommate. She refuses to date hockey players since her ex is one. Just one minor problem that she’s had a crush on Lincoln since she was a teenager, even though to outsiders it looks like she hates him. She knows exactly what she wants in life but she has trouble resisting him. He’s got a happy-go-lucky personality but he doesn’t show the world him being vulnerable - what Parker gets to see. She’s got her dream job in a male-dominated industry and doesn’t want a distraction. He likes to rile her up and get a reaction out of her. 6 years ago something happened between them, and he’s been shoving down his feelings since. He knows if she gives him the chance he’s been waiting for that he will be so good to her.
She doesn’t trust men but she’s learning that Linc can be sweet, supportive, and a good friend. He’s been the player - the life of the party. Or that’s what everyone thinks of him. Then he says the most perfect things, and holds her, and can’t sleep without her. He arranges NYC adventures since it’s her first time there. When he tells her that he will give her anything, Parker doesn’t believe him. But he truly means it. She’s someone he thinks he can’t have - He thinks he isn’t good enough for her. She said she’d never again be in a relationship with a hockey player but she’s realizing that Linc is so much more than just a hockey player. She’s the only thing he sees, the only woman he’s ever truly wanted. He’s always been there, showing her she’s special. He proves to her that he will do anything for her - that nothing ever is too much for her.
❤️ Their love language is irritating each other
❤️ It drives him insane that other men get to see her 🍑 in leggings 🤣
❤️ He makes her iced coffee ☕️ and breakfast
❤️ He calls her ‘Little P’.
❤️ I love their flirty banter - he calls her brat, she calls him player.
❤️ He gets jealous when she’s wearing a man’s hoodie 🤣 then proceeds to give her his. 🤭
❤️ Hoodie + sweatpants + backwards 🧢 🥵
❤️ ‘good girl’ 😮💨
❤️ He washes her hair 🩷
❤️ He cleans 👅 his fingers
❤️ He pushes it 💦 back in
Favorite quotes:
"You said that I've never been serious about anyone in my entire life. But you're wrong. I have."
“A hockey puck doesn't count."
"No, but you do."
‘She's my endgame. Always has been, always will be.’
‘Lifting the cup to my lips, I groan as the mix of rich coffee and sweet caramel hits my
tongue. He even got a double shot. This is book boyfriend material - and that is very, very dangerous.’
‘Why does he have to show me this side of him again? It's not fair. He can't be that hot and this thoughtful and kind. I don't stand a chance.’
"I'm just...I'm all in, Parker. I need you to know that. We can keep it under wraps for as long as you want. We can take it as slow as you want. Anything. Just...be mine. Please.”
"I want this. Us. I always have.”
"I love you, pretty girl. Thank you for com-
ing back to me."
Read this if you like:
*Hockey romance
*Brother’s best friend/best friend’s sister
*Childhood friends
*Forbidden/workplace romance
*Forced proximity
*Strong, independent FMC
*Possessive & tattooed MMC
*Boy obsessed
*It’s always been you
*Banter
*Found family
Content warning: death of parent
October 28, 2025
𝓜𝔂 𝓡𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝘗𝘭𝘢𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘗𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘎𝘢𝘮𝘦: 𝘈 𝘍𝘰𝘳𝘣𝘪𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯 𝘉𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳'𝘴 𝘉𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘍𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘐𝘤𝘦 𝘏𝘰𝘤𝘬𝘦𝘺 𝘙𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 (𝘓𝘈 𝘝𝘪𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘉𝘰𝘰𝘬 2
📖 648 pages
🗓️ 𝕽ℯ𝖑ℯ𝖆𝓈𝖊 October 23, 2025
𝐁𝐲: Tracy Lorraine
MCs: Parker, Lincoln
WHAT TO EXPECT...
* Hockey Player / Athletic Trainer
* Brother's Best Friend
* Roommates / Close Proximity
* Second Chance
* Slow Burn
* Workplace Romance
* Forbidden
* Standalone
This is the second book in the LA Vipers series, and Tracy Lorraine has once again delivered an emotional, slow-burn masterpiece. From start to finish, this story gave me everything I wanted — heart, heat, tension, and the kind of emotional depth that lingers long after the last page.
The chemistry between Parker and Lincoln is undeniable. Their connection felt real and heartfelt, and I loved how Tracy allowed both characters to grow individually before bringing them back together. You really feel every emotion — the angst, the longing, the push and pull that makes forbidden romances so addictive.
The story is beautifully written and perfectly paced. Every scene serves a purpose, pulling you deeper into their world. It’s emotional, steamy, and full of that signature Tracy Lorraine charm that makes her books impossible to put down.
If you love forbidden, brother’s best friend, slow-burn hockey romances packed with tension, heart, and steam — this one’s for you. It exceeded all my expectations, and I can’t wait to see where the LA Vipers series goes next. 🏒💋
🏒 AVAILABLE NOW on Kindle Unlimited! 🏒
➡️ One-click here!
🏒 AVAILABLE NOW 🏒
Release day is here! Playing the Pucking Game, the second book in the LA Vipers series, by Tracy Lorraine is now live and available in Kindle Unlimited!
One-Click your copy now - https://mybook.to/PuckingGame
Also available with KU
“Oh my , all the angst and the tension, the crazy hot chemistry and that steam made that slow burn so intense .” - Geri Stoikova
An all-new steamy and angsty Forbidden, Brother’s Best Friend Ice Hockey Romance from the USA Today & Wall Street Journal bestselling author, Tracy Lorraine.
Lincoln Storm.
Hockey god.
My brother’s best friend.
And now … my roommate.
The new year was supposed to be my clean slate. I finally landed my dream job—assistant athletic trainer for the LA Vipers.
But before I even set foot in the arena, my apartment goes up in flames.
Enter Lincoln. All swagger, playboy grin, and the man I’ve spent a decade pretending I hate.
To the world, he’s all cocky charm and playful smiles.
To me? He’s infuriating. Impossible. And dangerously close to my heart.
Now we’re sharing a roof. Traveling with the same team. Breathing the same air.
I’ve worked too hard to prove myself in a man’s world. I’m strong. Independent. Unstoppable.
There’s only one weakness I can’t shake.
Him.
Dear reader,
Playing the Pucking Game is a standalone brother’s best friend, forbidden romance set in the LA Vipers world.
#hockeyromance #romancebook #forbidden #Steamyromance #contemporaryromance #influencersignup #brothersbestfriend #roommates #secondchance #newrelease #nowlive #kindle #kindleunlimited #romancereaders
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝘗𝘭𝘢𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘗𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘎𝘢𝘮𝘦: 𝘈 𝘍𝘰𝘳𝘣𝘪𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯 𝘉𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳'𝘴 𝘉𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘍𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘐𝘤𝘦 𝘏𝘰𝘤𝘬𝘦𝘺 𝘙𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 (𝘓𝘈 𝘝𝘪𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘉𝘰𝘰𝘬 2
📖 648 pages
🗓️ 𝕽ℯ𝖑ℯ𝖆𝓈𝖊 October 23, 2025
𝐁𝐲: Tracy Lorraine
MCs: Parker, Lincoln
WHAT TO EXPECT...
* Hockey Player / Athletic Trainer
* Brother's Best Friend
* Roommates / Close Proximity
* Second Chance
* Slow Burn
* Workplace Romance
* Forbidden
* Standalone
This is the second book in the LA Vipers series, and Tracy Lorraine has once again delivered an emotional, slow-burn masterpiece. From start to finish, this story gave me everything I wanted — heart, heat, tension, and the kind of emotional depth that lingers long after the last page.
The chemistry between Parker and Lincoln is undeniable. Their connection felt real and heartfelt, and I loved how Tracy allowed both characters to grow individually before bringing them back together. You really feel every emotion — the angst, the longing, the push and pull that makes forbidden romances so addictive.
The story is beautifully written and perfectly paced. Every scene serves a purpose, pulling you deeper into their world. It’s emotional, steamy, and full of that signature Tracy Lorraine charm that makes her books impossible to put down.
If you love forbidden, brother’s best friend, slow-burn hockey romances packed with tension, heart, and steam — this one’s for you. It exceeded all my expectations, and I can’t wait to see where the LA Vipers series goes next. 🏒💋
🏒 AVAILABLE NOW on Kindle Unlimited! 🏒
➡️ One-click here!
🏒 AVAILABLE NOW 🏒
Release day is here! Playing the Pucking Game, the second book in the LA Vipers series, by Tracy Lorraine is now live and available in Kindle Unlimited!
One-Click your copy now - https://mybook.to/PuckingGame
Also available with KU
“Oh my , all the angst and the tension, the crazy hot chemistry and that steam made that slow burn so intense .” - Geri Stoikova
An all-new steamy and angsty Forbidden, Brother’s Best Friend Ice Hockey Romance from the USA Today & Wall Street Journal bestselling author, Tracy Lorraine.
Lincoln Storm.
Hockey god.
My brother’s best friend.
And now … my roommate.
The new year was supposed to be my clean slate. I finally landed my dream job—assistant athletic trainer for the LA Vipers.
But before I even set foot in the arena, my apartment goes up in flames.
Enter Lincoln. All swagger, playboy grin, and the man I’ve spent a decade pretending I hate.
To the world, he’s all cocky charm and playful smiles.
To me? He’s infuriating. Impossible. And dangerously close to my heart.
Now we’re sharing a roof. Traveling with the same team. Breathing the same air.
I’ve worked too hard to prove myself in a man’s world. I’m strong. Independent. Unstoppable.
There’s only one weakness I can’t shake.
Him.
Dear reader,
Playing the Pucking Game is a standalone brother’s best friend, forbidden romance set in the LA Vipers world.
#hockeyromance #romancebook #forbidden #Steamyromance #contemporaryromance #influencersignup #brothersbestfriend #roommates #secondchance #newrelease #nowlive #kindle #kindleunlimited #romancereaders
October 23, 2025
More reviews posted at Tales of Love, Life, and Murder
I loved everything about these characters and this book. Let’s start there. This may be the slowest slow-burn I’ve ever read and though I usually run out of patience with that pretty quick, this one was magical. The tension was so good, I almost didn’t want it to end. Parker and Linc have known each other forever. Her brother’s bestie was a fixture in their home growing up and her hero for a while, but today Parker spares no love for Lincoln Storm. He’s a hockey god and quite the player, both on and off the ice, not at all the type to fall in love and settle down. Or so Parker thinks, but years have passed, and people change so maybe she no longer knows Linc as well as she thinks.
Linc has only ever wanted one woman for more than a few hours so it’s too bad she doesn’t want him back. He’s adapted over the years and come to terms with not getting the girl, until Parker comes to work for his team and all the old feelings come rushing back. Now she’s his trainer and he has to deal with her hands all over him, which he both loves and hates. And they’re living together too, after her place burns down. He sees the second chance he never thought he’d get but she just sees trouble.
Parker appreciates his hospitality and even rekindles their friendship, but she refuses to be more than friends. It’s not like she’s not attracted to him, the man is perfection in every way: he’s gorgeous, sweet, generous and loves to take care of her. It’s hard to reconcile this man with the one she thought she knew so well, but Linc shows her every day how much she means to him and he’s hard to resist.
She wants him too, but this job means everything, it’s her lifelong dream. Not only is she a female trainer in the NHL, but she’s working for her home team, the one she’s supported all her life. Calling it a dream come true is a gross understatement so she’s not going to trash her career by violating the no-fraternization clause. She could lose her job or, even worse, be seen as only getting the position because of her relationship with a player. Parker knows she has to resist but Linc is determined to show her that they belong together. Parker is amazing and he’s the ultimate golden retriever; I couldn’t get enough Linc. These two are everything and I couldn’t put their story down. It’s definitely one I’ll read again.
October 19, 2025
Playing The Pucking Game is book 2 in the LA Vipers series and it was so good! I had been waiting for these two and they did not disappoint! Tracy is the queen at weaving angst, slow burn, healing and love together so well! And this hockey era of hers brings it all!
Parker and Linc… We knew there was a past from book 1, but we didn't know much more. She is the first female NHL trainer going to work for her most favorite team. He is the team playboy and her brother’s best friend who she has loved since she was young. Little does she know he always felt the same! They both try to bury their feelings, but the tension between them simmers. Their chemistry is electric, the slow burn and angst between these two is palatable..And when they finally give in? Hot. So many years just waiting to be acted upon! Linc redefines obsession—possessive, protective, and once he is in, he is ALL in! He will burn it all down for her and will always be there for anything she needs. He’d do anything for her. She just has to get past her fear of letting it all go and giving in to him fully.
One thing I love with Tracy's writing is the side characters she brings in. They always add so much to the story and bring you right into the family. Kodie, Casey and Sutton are back from book 1. PLUS, several of the players, which are hysterical, several of the staff and we get to know Parker’s brother Rhett a little more and their friend Freya, (which we are going to learn alot more about!)
These two are the perfect definition of it's always been you! Sometimes it just takes a lot of time and healing to get there! This is such a great hockey series and romance, if you haven't started it yet, do it! Everything Tracy writes is pure gold! AND book 3 will be out in December!
Rate: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 3/5🌶️🌶️🌶️
💚 Hockey Romance
🏒 Best Friend’s Little Sister
💚 Forbidden Romance
🏒 Close Proximity
💚 Slowwww Burn
Parker and Linc… We knew there was a past from book 1, but we didn't know much more. She is the first female NHL trainer going to work for her most favorite team. He is the team playboy and her brother’s best friend who she has loved since she was young. Little does she know he always felt the same! They both try to bury their feelings, but the tension between them simmers. Their chemistry is electric, the slow burn and angst between these two is palatable..And when they finally give in? Hot. So many years just waiting to be acted upon! Linc redefines obsession—possessive, protective, and once he is in, he is ALL in! He will burn it all down for her and will always be there for anything she needs. He’d do anything for her. She just has to get past her fear of letting it all go and giving in to him fully.
One thing I love with Tracy's writing is the side characters she brings in. They always add so much to the story and bring you right into the family. Kodie, Casey and Sutton are back from book 1. PLUS, several of the players, which are hysterical, several of the staff and we get to know Parker’s brother Rhett a little more and their friend Freya, (which we are going to learn alot more about!)
These two are the perfect definition of it's always been you! Sometimes it just takes a lot of time and healing to get there! This is such a great hockey series and romance, if you haven't started it yet, do it! Everything Tracy writes is pure gold! AND book 3 will be out in December!
Rate: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 3/5🌶️🌶️🌶️
💚 Hockey Romance
🏒 Best Friend’s Little Sister
💚 Forbidden Romance
🏒 Close Proximity
💚 Slowwww Burn
October 25, 2025
The slow burn in this book almost unalived me! Playing The Pucking Game by Tracy Lorraine packed some amazing tropes and definitely has great execution. Lincoln and Parker has a long history of heartache and sweet memories but fate has brought them together again. They are forbidden. They are under scrutiny. But their chemistry is undeniable and their hearts are still entangled.
🏒 hockey romance
🏒 best friend's sister
🏒 Alpha hero
🏒 forced proximity
🏒 second chance.
🏒 friends to lovers
Parker has just landed the dream job of assistant athletic trainer for LA Vipers and her apartment goes down into flames the night before she starts the job. On New Year's eve. Her brother's best friend and Vipers' star player Lincoln Storm insists that she moves in with him temporarily. Can she keep her feelings hidden? Specially when Lincoln is making it clear that he won't let her go this time?
I love Lincoln so much! He is definitely top class athlete with all the swag, confidence and alpha personality. But he is also impossibly sweet and soft for Parker. Years ago, Parker walked out after they had a memorable night because she was scared. She still is. A playboy hockey player shouldn't want her. And she is afraid that she will be judged for being with a player and her ability as an excellent trainer will be questioned. But she also cannot deny that Linc is being different with her. Taking care of her in the most amazing way. Paying attention to all her little emotional needs. Being there every single time she is vulnerable. She is definitely sassy and strong but too many things are happening and Linc was there to support her at every step. The build up was so slow as Lincoln didn't want to spook her and mess it. He wanted to show her that he is serious and he did. The bromance is just epc and I loved it so much. At the end, they conquered the obstacles and won over every sceptic...even her brother.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
🏒 hockey romance
🏒 best friend's sister
🏒 Alpha hero
🏒 forced proximity
🏒 second chance.
🏒 friends to lovers
Parker has just landed the dream job of assistant athletic trainer for LA Vipers and her apartment goes down into flames the night before she starts the job. On New Year's eve. Her brother's best friend and Vipers' star player Lincoln Storm insists that she moves in with him temporarily. Can she keep her feelings hidden? Specially when Lincoln is making it clear that he won't let her go this time?
I love Lincoln so much! He is definitely top class athlete with all the swag, confidence and alpha personality. But he is also impossibly sweet and soft for Parker. Years ago, Parker walked out after they had a memorable night because she was scared. She still is. A playboy hockey player shouldn't want her. And she is afraid that she will be judged for being with a player and her ability as an excellent trainer will be questioned. But she also cannot deny that Linc is being different with her. Taking care of her in the most amazing way. Paying attention to all her little emotional needs. Being there every single time she is vulnerable. She is definitely sassy and strong but too many things are happening and Linc was there to support her at every step. The build up was so slow as Lincoln didn't want to spook her and mess it. He wanted to show her that he is serious and he did. The bromance is just epc and I loved it so much. At the end, they conquered the obstacles and won over every sceptic...even her brother.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
October 20, 2025
Lincoln Storm is the biggest golden retriever, "sin"namon roll ever!! 🥰 He's also the king of slooooowww burn. 🥵
Lincoln Storm is the team playboy and Parker Donnelly is a new asst. team trainer. Parker feels like this is her year; breaking barriers for women in a male dominated field. Parker loves her job and she's not about to risk her job for any kind of relationship with a player, especially an actual "player" like Lincoln, but when her life literally goes up in flames, which includes her apartment building and everything she owns, Lincoln comes to her rescue. He has a spare room for her to move into, even when everything inside her says she'd rather be homeless on the streets.
Their animosity isn't new, these two have known one another since childhood. Lincoln is best friends with her brother who plays on another team and Parker has, or had, a crush on Lincoln when they were young, but like all crushes it was crushed. Parker looked up to Lincoln at one point and at some point everything changed, but Lincoln...that cinnamon roll of a man never forgot her. Their bickering and bantering revolves around more than just Lincoln's conquests or even Parker's salty attitude, but their delicious build up is great with all the banter and especially with the slow, slow burn. It gives lots of time for gratuitous shots of a shirtless Lincoln. 😉🥵
All the secondary characters are so fun, the Vipers team is hilarious when they are all together, and I loved getting more of Kodie, Casey, and Sutton especially now that grumpy Kodie is in love.
Lincoln Storm is the team playboy and Parker Donnelly is a new asst. team trainer. Parker feels like this is her year; breaking barriers for women in a male dominated field. Parker loves her job and she's not about to risk her job for any kind of relationship with a player, especially an actual "player" like Lincoln, but when her life literally goes up in flames, which includes her apartment building and everything she owns, Lincoln comes to her rescue. He has a spare room for her to move into, even when everything inside her says she'd rather be homeless on the streets.
Their animosity isn't new, these two have known one another since childhood. Lincoln is best friends with her brother who plays on another team and Parker has, or had, a crush on Lincoln when they were young, but like all crushes it was crushed. Parker looked up to Lincoln at one point and at some point everything changed, but Lincoln...that cinnamon roll of a man never forgot her. Their bickering and bantering revolves around more than just Lincoln's conquests or even Parker's salty attitude, but their delicious build up is great with all the banter and especially with the slow, slow burn. It gives lots of time for gratuitous shots of a shirtless Lincoln. 😉🥵
All the secondary characters are so fun, the Vipers team is hilarious when they are all together, and I loved getting more of Kodie, Casey, and Sutton especially now that grumpy Kodie is in love.
October 23, 2025
Playing the Pucking Game
LA Vipers #2
Tracy Lorraine
Releases 23rd Oct
POV:DUAL
Parker & Linc
Parker and Linc have history. Both coming from hockey legacies. It's in their blood. They grew up together with Casey, the coach's daughter. Linc is Retts best friend, Parkers brother. The boys used to torment Parker, but they were protective of her. But Lincs feelings were anything but brotherly towards her, fiercely protective, she was for him from the start, before he realised what these feelings were.
Cliche girl falls for brother's best friend, hides it well, because why would he look at his best friend’s little sister? Growing up she'd trail after them on the ice, she also played on the girls team with Casey.
Now Parker's the LA Vipers, Linc’s team, newest athletic trainer, plus being a woman in a man's world, she has her work cut out for her. Oh, and her apartment building has burned down.... and now living in Linc's spare room. Despite the love/hate relationship they have, they've always been in each other's lives. Could this develop into being an HRs nightmare?
This is a slow-burn, not a slow read.
The players and other work colleagues are supportive, have each others backs, bicker back and forth, the banter is amusingly funny, they're one big happy family, dysfunctional, but family none the less.
It gives you time aswell to think about who's going to be the next couple.... FYI, I called it!.... Oh, that was in my head, not out loud 😂
Looking forward to the next installment of the LA Vipers world 🏒
*Arc provided for review
LA Vipers #2
Tracy Lorraine
Releases 23rd Oct
POV:DUAL
Parker & Linc
Parker and Linc have history. Both coming from hockey legacies. It's in their blood. They grew up together with Casey, the coach's daughter. Linc is Retts best friend, Parkers brother. The boys used to torment Parker, but they were protective of her. But Lincs feelings were anything but brotherly towards her, fiercely protective, she was for him from the start, before he realised what these feelings were.
Cliche girl falls for brother's best friend, hides it well, because why would he look at his best friend’s little sister? Growing up she'd trail after them on the ice, she also played on the girls team with Casey.
Now Parker's the LA Vipers, Linc’s team, newest athletic trainer, plus being a woman in a man's world, she has her work cut out for her. Oh, and her apartment building has burned down.... and now living in Linc's spare room. Despite the love/hate relationship they have, they've always been in each other's lives. Could this develop into being an HRs nightmare?
This is a slow-burn, not a slow read.
The players and other work colleagues are supportive, have each others backs, bicker back and forth, the banter is amusingly funny, they're one big happy family, dysfunctional, but family none the less.
It gives you time aswell to think about who's going to be the next couple.... FYI, I called it!.... Oh, that was in my head, not out loud 😂
Looking forward to the next installment of the LA Vipers world 🏒
*Arc provided for review
October 23, 2025
Playing The Pucking Game ( LA Vipers Book 2 ) Brothers Best Friend, Roommates to more , Forbidden Love and Hockey Romance!!! Have you ever picked up a series that just sucked you right in , in ways you never would have expected ? That had you falling in love with each and every character / couple from the very first book and where you found yourself completely immersed in the world the author has created ? That had the ability to make you feel so many different emotions you never saw coming? Everything from smiling and laughing out loud , to crying like a baby to actually being speechless at times and screaming outta pure frustration during others . That had you cheering so freaking hard from start to finish, Well Playing The Pucking Game may only be the second installment in the LA Vipers Series ( but I’m already addicted, just obsessed . Linc oh Linc utter perfection, the perfect book boyfriend- the perfect blend of protective and possessive with an alpha personality. He’s got the swag , he’s a top athlete and is impossible to resist . What I loved most about him though was the softness his showed when he was around Parker . Their relationship was anything but easy , both have a history of heartache and demons . Sure there were happy memories as well , but the heartbreak definitely was in the forefront, it without a doubt took a emotional toll on both of their lives . Add into that the humor , the witty banter , the angst and family and friendships. Parker and Lincs story really is the best of everything a great romance should entail .
October 27, 2025
Review:
🏒Playing the Pucking Game🏒
LA Vipers #2
By Tracy Lorraine
🏒 Hockey Romance
🏒 Sports Romance
🏒 Second Chance Romance
⭐ 5/5
Lincoln and Parker and a difficult journey to happy end
The second book in the LA Vipers series follows hockey player Lincoln and team assistant athletic trainer Parker. Also they have known each other since they were kids, seeing as Linc is Parker’s brother’s best friend.
Both share a secret and each is having a big secret of their own.
A tragic incident leaves Parker no other choice than to accept Lincoln’s offer and take his spare bedroom. Becoming roommates with him was her least thought.
They have too much history and are about to work for the same hockey team.
Putting Linc at arms length and having him staying there is her most important option. And that is for a good reason.
Lincoln could not be luckier these days. Despite the circumstances, finally having Parker near and getting a chance with her for becoming friends again? Or more?
He is determined to have her see the real him and not the one the world thinks she knows. The one she knew before. The one he truly is.
But that is much harder work than he imagined.
They have a lot to work through. Literally and figuratively. But slowly both begin to see each other with the eyes the other one wants to be seen.
A very slow burn, emotionally and deep romance, with a very well deserved happy end. And many appreciated appearances and options for the future.
🏒Playing the Pucking Game🏒
LA Vipers #2
By Tracy Lorraine
🏒 Hockey Romance
🏒 Sports Romance
🏒 Second Chance Romance
⭐ 5/5
Lincoln and Parker and a difficult journey to happy end
The second book in the LA Vipers series follows hockey player Lincoln and team assistant athletic trainer Parker. Also they have known each other since they were kids, seeing as Linc is Parker’s brother’s best friend.
Both share a secret and each is having a big secret of their own.
A tragic incident leaves Parker no other choice than to accept Lincoln’s offer and take his spare bedroom. Becoming roommates with him was her least thought.
They have too much history and are about to work for the same hockey team.
Putting Linc at arms length and having him staying there is her most important option. And that is for a good reason.
Lincoln could not be luckier these days. Despite the circumstances, finally having Parker near and getting a chance with her for becoming friends again? Or more?
He is determined to have her see the real him and not the one the world thinks she knows. The one she knew before. The one he truly is.
But that is much harder work than he imagined.
They have a lot to work through. Literally and figuratively. But slowly both begin to see each other with the eyes the other one wants to be seen.
A very slow burn, emotionally and deep romance, with a very well deserved happy end. And many appreciated appearances and options for the future.
October 31, 2025
Arghhhh... I felt like I was playing a roller-coaster with all books that Tracy Lorraine released recently.
Just like this one, after I was disappointed by her few previous books, I did enjoy reading "Breaking the Pucking Rules", the first book of the series, and I had high hope with Lincoln and Parker's story because both brother's best friend and second chance are my favorite tropes (yes, I sensed their chemistry and thought they had a history while I was reading the first book.) But I turned out to feel frustrated with how stubborn Parker are and how Lorraine seemed to drag the story too long for nothing.
Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy reading and guessing what happened between them in the past and the way Lorraine slowly revealed them by shuffling them with the present is brilliant. But once I got the picture, I hope their relationship will be moved forward but I had no such luck. It seemed Linc has a lot to prove to Parker while she is just thinking about herself and trying so hard to resist him. I like them more when they bickered with each other though.
Luckily, the story was more interesting after 75% of the book... Like, yeah, finally, they are moving forward together! Gosh, I felt it's sooo long before I got there (wince.)
And even if I may get annoyed with Parker, I still like Linc. He is so thoughtful when it comes to Parker and he is a reason why I decide to give this book 4 stars.
Just like this one, after I was disappointed by her few previous books, I did enjoy reading "Breaking the Pucking Rules", the first book of the series, and I had high hope with Lincoln and Parker's story because both brother's best friend and second chance are my favorite tropes (yes, I sensed their chemistry and thought they had a history while I was reading the first book.) But I turned out to feel frustrated with how stubborn Parker are and how Lorraine seemed to drag the story too long for nothing.
Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy reading and guessing what happened between them in the past and the way Lorraine slowly revealed them by shuffling them with the present is brilliant. But once I got the picture, I hope their relationship will be moved forward but I had no such luck. It seemed Linc has a lot to prove to Parker while she is just thinking about herself and trying so hard to resist him. I like them more when they bickered with each other though.
Luckily, the story was more interesting after 75% of the book... Like, yeah, finally, they are moving forward together! Gosh, I felt it's sooo long before I got there (wince.)
And even if I may get annoyed with Parker, I still like Linc. He is so thoughtful when it comes to Parker and he is a reason why I decide to give this book 4 stars.
October 25, 2025
I can’t even! Hands down a hockey romance must read that is ridiculously good, has it all and has got to be the year’s hottest slow burn! It’s hockey, a woman crushing it in a man’s world, a family and friends group you’d die to part of, so, so much tension, humor, heart, and Lincoln freakin Storm. He’s like catnip, kryptonite, and the definition of swoon all rolled into one sexy golden retriever hockey star package, and he’ll have you simping all over him like a girl with her first crush, as he goes all in on finally getting Parker, the only girl he’s ever wanted more with, the one girl who got away, and of course, his best friend’s sister, and it’s a five star, I’ll recommend it forever, and for the love of god get this on your tbr, read.
This is the kind of book you’re so enamored with, nothing is making you put it down and there isn’t a single second you’re not totally into it. It’s the tension you’re dying for these two to cut, the frustration of Parker’s once bitten twice shy hang ups, and Lincoln not even understanding the words give up, that just has you hanging on every word, and it’s the patience, the understanding, and the way Lincoln has mastered the art of actions speak louder than words to get the girl that has you up in your feels and head over heels with it all. Well written, well plotted, and perfectly believable, this is romance at it’s best.
This is the kind of book you’re so enamored with, nothing is making you put it down and there isn’t a single second you’re not totally into it. It’s the tension you’re dying for these two to cut, the frustration of Parker’s once bitten twice shy hang ups, and Lincoln not even understanding the words give up, that just has you hanging on every word, and it’s the patience, the understanding, and the way Lincoln has mastered the art of actions speak louder than words to get the girl that has you up in your feels and head over heels with it all. Well written, well plotted, and perfectly believable, this is romance at it’s best.
October 23, 2025
This is the second book in the LA Vipers series and wow did we ever get a story. Lincoln and Parker's story was full of angst and shows us how thin the line is between love and hate. Lincoln and Parker have known each other forever and he is her brother's best friend. While this book is a slow burn, you get the most beautiful story of these two falling in love. Lincoln is the new book boyfriend that we all need. This man spoils and does everything he can to take care of Parker not just when she needs someone but every day. He truly shows his vulnerability throughout this whole story and it was spectacular. Parker is slower to come to terms with her feelings and while she tries so hard to keep herself in the hate zone, he slowly brings her walls down. The emotional healing and you have always been the one moments are throughout the whole story and your heart melts. While Parker wants to stand on her own you feel her struggles with being a female in a male dominant job, she stands strong and proves those around her that she is meant to be there. The side characters also bring some fantastic banter and laugh out loud moments. Can't wait to see what's coming in the next book. I was given this book as an ARC for my honest review.
November 2, 2025
Playing The Pucking Game By Tracy Lorraine ARC Review
I read the first book in the series and devoured it but this one was the best out of the series so far an I rated it 5 stars because it was a thrilling read that did a number on the chemistry and the joy it gave me to read about the journey of this couple.
Lincoln, was a flirt and one of the best main male characters that I enjoyed reading about it was trilling to read about the chemistry with Parker. I thought the best parts of this book was them trying to stay away from each other but couldn’t stop developing feelings for each other.
Parker, was a favourite of my Tracy Lorraine characters because she wrote her as perfect as can be I related to her at times and it was really easy connecting with her character the way they both had chemistry and having to become a couple they both had a gripping connection.
I loved the ending but I can’t wait for more coming from this series it was really wonderful to have read this story and reminisced about the other characters and went to read through their journey and how they overcame their feelings and dived in their relationship.
I read the first book in the series and devoured it but this one was the best out of the series so far an I rated it 5 stars because it was a thrilling read that did a number on the chemistry and the joy it gave me to read about the journey of this couple.
Lincoln, was a flirt and one of the best main male characters that I enjoyed reading about it was trilling to read about the chemistry with Parker. I thought the best parts of this book was them trying to stay away from each other but couldn’t stop developing feelings for each other.
Parker, was a favourite of my Tracy Lorraine characters because she wrote her as perfect as can be I related to her at times and it was really easy connecting with her character the way they both had chemistry and having to become a couple they both had a gripping connection.
I loved the ending but I can’t wait for more coming from this series it was really wonderful to have read this story and reminisced about the other characters and went to read through their journey and how they overcame their feelings and dived in their relationship.
December 11, 2025
I loved Lincoln and Parker’s story. These two are the perfect match for each other. They have known each other since childhood and they both grew up with hockey. Parker is Casey’s best friend from the first book and Lincoln/Linc is best friend’s with her older brother Rett. It’s a new year and she finally has her dream job, but it’s not the best start to a new year when her apartment building goes up in flames. He offers to have Parker stay at his place until she figures something else. He will give her anything she wants or needs, but all she sees is the man she hates. Linc has been waiting years for Parker to be his and this is his chance to prove to her that he is not who she thinks he is. This is a frenemy to lovers and workplace romance with some drama and angst added in. You get to see Linc change and show who he really is and what he is willing to do to have Parker as his. I love this series and am always on the edge of my seat wondering what will happen next. I love all the characters and it is great always seeing them and Sutton is still the cutest little girl. I can’t wait for Handsy’s story next.
December 16, 2025
First off I love me some Lincoln! I think Parker and Lincoln story was my favorite. This is a best fiends little sister romance . Super slow burn with forced proximity.
Lincoln was always there to back Parker, even when she didn’t know it. But from Parker‘s point of view you get burned once you get burned all , still recovering from a first heartache that happened in high school . Parker has her heart sealed up tight and the one person that pushes her buttons the most is the one person she tricks herself to hate just to keep that distance in place!
Lincoln has always had a soft spot for Parker and it eventually turned into love, but because it’s his best friend‘s little sister, he tried his best to push it all away and do the one thing he was good at , act the player part. But sometimes it isn’t everything it’s cracked up to be.
When tragedy strikes for Parker, the person she least expects to have her back a somehow becomes her peace is Lincoln. what could possibly happen when you’re forced to be in close proximity?
This is definitely a slow burn with LOTS OF ANGST plenty of jokes with side characters from all around I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Lincoln was always there to back Parker, even when she didn’t know it. But from Parker‘s point of view you get burned once you get burned all , still recovering from a first heartache that happened in high school . Parker has her heart sealed up tight and the one person that pushes her buttons the most is the one person she tricks herself to hate just to keep that distance in place!
Lincoln has always had a soft spot for Parker and it eventually turned into love, but because it’s his best friend‘s little sister, he tried his best to push it all away and do the one thing he was good at , act the player part. But sometimes it isn’t everything it’s cracked up to be.
When tragedy strikes for Parker, the person she least expects to have her back a somehow becomes her peace is Lincoln. what could possibly happen when you’re forced to be in close proximity?
This is definitely a slow burn with LOTS OF ANGST plenty of jokes with side characters from all around I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
October 24, 2025
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is the story of Parker and Linc. If you have read the first book, you know that these two have some chemistry between them. But that is about all we know. Now we are getting their story. Parker is the first NHL trainer and she has landed a job with her favorite team. Linc is the golden boy of the team and her brothers best friend that she has been in love with since they were all young. As much as they try to deny they feel anything for each other,, the chemistry and tension between these two just bleeds off the pages of this book. It is so worth reading this book just for the when they finally give in of it all. It's been years of longing and secret glances between these two. Linc is the very definition of possessive, obsessive, protective and a man who is all in when when he is in. However, Parker has to get past a lot of things and let it go. But can she? You have to read to find this out. I really loved reading this book.
This is the story of Parker and Linc. If you have read the first book, you know that these two have some chemistry between them. But that is about all we know. Now we are getting their story. Parker is the first NHL trainer and she has landed a job with her favorite team. Linc is the golden boy of the team and her brothers best friend that she has been in love with since they were all young. As much as they try to deny they feel anything for each other,, the chemistry and tension between these two just bleeds off the pages of this book. It is so worth reading this book just for the when they finally give in of it all. It's been years of longing and secret glances between these two. Linc is the very definition of possessive, obsessive, protective and a man who is all in when when he is in. However, Parker has to get past a lot of things and let it go. But can she? You have to read to find this out. I really loved reading this book.
October 20, 2025
Talk about a slow burn book but filled with so much angst, chemistry, steam and passion!
We are back for book 2 of the LA Vipers and playboy Linc!! I couldn't wait to read Parker and Linc's story, I could tell there was a whole lot of history between them from the first book. Instantly Linc is her knight in shining armour and looking after her from the beginning but we slowly realise he has always been there fore her over the years and the longing and love between the two grows into full on flames as the story goes on!
I love how Parkers new job is hands on with the Ice Hockey Team and we get the banter from the rest of the players! Kodie, Casey and sassy Sutton are back too as well as the rest of the friends and family!
Linc and Parker's story was beautiful and I loved the flash backs to give a more in depth look at when the feelings first started between the two! Looking forward to the next book!!!
We are back for book 2 of the LA Vipers and playboy Linc!! I couldn't wait to read Parker and Linc's story, I could tell there was a whole lot of history between them from the first book. Instantly Linc is her knight in shining armour and looking after her from the beginning but we slowly realise he has always been there fore her over the years and the longing and love between the two grows into full on flames as the story goes on!
I love how Parkers new job is hands on with the Ice Hockey Team and we get the banter from the rest of the players! Kodie, Casey and sassy Sutton are back too as well as the rest of the friends and family!
Linc and Parker's story was beautiful and I loved the flash backs to give a more in depth look at when the feelings first started between the two! Looking forward to the next book!!!
October 23, 2025
This is the second book in this impressive series, and this is Parker and Lincoln’s story.
Linc is Perker’s older brothers’ best friend, and he is a playboy hockey player, while Parker is the new assistant trainer for the team, and she is determined to prover herself in a male dominated world. When Parker’s apartment goes up in flames, Linc offers her a room in his apartment. Parker and Linc have shared a connection for years, but the timing was never right. Parker’s brother plays for a rival team, but how will he react to her and Linc being together?
This is a well written easy to read emotionally charged story, with family, friendships, forbidden romance, tension, bickering, making choices, roommates / lovers, forced proximity, humour, witty banter, palpable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and captivating page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Linc is Perker’s older brothers’ best friend, and he is a playboy hockey player, while Parker is the new assistant trainer for the team, and she is determined to prover herself in a male dominated world. When Parker’s apartment goes up in flames, Linc offers her a room in his apartment. Parker and Linc have shared a connection for years, but the timing was never right. Parker’s brother plays for a rival team, but how will he react to her and Linc being together?
This is a well written easy to read emotionally charged story, with family, friendships, forbidden romance, tension, bickering, making choices, roommates / lovers, forced proximity, humour, witty banter, palpable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and captivating page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
October 25, 2025
Totally enjoyed this hockey romance. This was a brother’s best friend romance where they have known each other since they were kids, but it took years for them to really come together. Lincoln Storm is the hot hockey god and the best friend of Parker Donnelly’s brother. Linc plays for the Vipers and Parker is just starting a job as an athletic trainer for the team. Due to certain events, they end up spending a lot of time together and eventually can’t deny their attraction for each other or their feelings. Problem is can they have a relationship while working for the same team? Will Parker’s brother approve when he finds out? It may be a plot you have read before, but Tracy does a great job building the story and characters in a way that keeps you reading to see what happens next. This is part of a series, which I always love when there are series like this where the characters are seen throughout the other books as well.
October 26, 2025
Linc and Parker’s story is a slow-burn, forbidden rollercoaster that hits all the right notes. Linc has loved Parker since he was fourteen, but she’s his best friend’s little sister — and completely off-limits. Now she’s working for his team and, thanks to some bad luck, living under his roof.
The tension between them is undeniable — all that years-long longing, banter, and unspoken chemistry finally bubbling to the surface. Linc is the perfect mix of cocky and loyal, and when it comes to Parker, he’s all heart. Parker’s strength and determination to prove herself in a male-dominated world make her easy to root for, even when her walls start to crumble around him.
Tracy Lorraine blends heat, heart, and heartbreak so seamlessly that you’ll be glued to every page. Playing the Pucking Game is for anyone who loves a brother’s best friend romance with a hero who’s been hopelessly in love forever and finally gets his chance.
The tension between them is undeniable — all that years-long longing, banter, and unspoken chemistry finally bubbling to the surface. Linc is the perfect mix of cocky and loyal, and when it comes to Parker, he’s all heart. Parker’s strength and determination to prove herself in a male-dominated world make her easy to root for, even when her walls start to crumble around him.
Tracy Lorraine blends heat, heart, and heartbreak so seamlessly that you’ll be glued to every page. Playing the Pucking Game is for anyone who loves a brother’s best friend romance with a hero who’s been hopelessly in love forever and finally gets his chance.
October 30, 2025
The second book in the L.A. Vipers series, and it was phenomenal. I am so happy that Linc and Panker have their story, and what a story it was.
I love the Vipers! It's a big family, and i love that we get to enjoy the support, love, and development between the main characters and the secondary ones throughout the series.
Linc is a big shot hockey player, and Parker has been accepted for a job with his team. They have known each other since childhood, where feelings were left to be buried as Lincs best friend is Parkers Brother. Linc moves her into his home after a fire and is left with nothing. Surely old feelings won't come back working and living so close to each other.
Tracy is the queen of everything! The angst, banter, chemistry, the sexual tension, god, i just devoured this book. Linc hes protective, possessive, and Parker is independent, feisty, and both use their banter and sarcastic comments to cover their true feelings.
I can't wait for book three.
I love the Vipers! It's a big family, and i love that we get to enjoy the support, love, and development between the main characters and the secondary ones throughout the series.
Linc is a big shot hockey player, and Parker has been accepted for a job with his team. They have known each other since childhood, where feelings were left to be buried as Lincs best friend is Parkers Brother. Linc moves her into his home after a fire and is left with nothing. Surely old feelings won't come back working and living so close to each other.
Tracy is the queen of everything! The angst, banter, chemistry, the sexual tension, god, i just devoured this book. Linc hes protective, possessive, and Parker is independent, feisty, and both use their banter and sarcastic comments to cover their true feelings.
I can't wait for book three.
January 14, 2026
hate and love brothers best friend
Possible spillers.
Parker and linc have a complicated past. Linc jokes around flirting with Parker but she doesn’t know he’s in love with her. She can’t stand him but has a thing for him even if she won’t admit it. She becomes the new team trainer. Neither think it’s a good idea to go there because of the brother and her new job. But then Linc is tired of the meaningless life with bunnies and decides it’s time, he doesn’t care and will force Parker to see him and that he truly cares for her after she faces a tragedy. She moves in with him. She continues to keep away from him but he keeps chipping away at her resolve. They are constantly together, home work and away games. They decide to see what can happen and when the brother finds out things blow up. We get to see them opening up about the past. It was funny and spicy. All around good story!
Possible spillers.
Parker and linc have a complicated past. Linc jokes around flirting with Parker but she doesn’t know he’s in love with her. She can’t stand him but has a thing for him even if she won’t admit it. She becomes the new team trainer. Neither think it’s a good idea to go there because of the brother and her new job. But then Linc is tired of the meaningless life with bunnies and decides it’s time, he doesn’t care and will force Parker to see him and that he truly cares for her after she faces a tragedy. She moves in with him. She continues to keep away from him but he keeps chipping away at her resolve. They are constantly together, home work and away games. They decide to see what can happen and when the brother finds out things blow up. We get to see them opening up about the past. It was funny and spicy. All around good story!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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