Brian

Los Angeles Quakes Hockey #4

by Alisa Jean

Sweet heat. Sharp skates. One perfect shot at forever.

Brian Anderson has always been the good guy—center for the Los Angeles Quakes, team peacemaker, and top scorer. He’s watched his teammates fall in love one by one, but he’s stayed far from the line of fire—until a fierce left winger blindsides him in a no-holds-barred charity game. Alexis Barlowe doesn’t care about NHL fame. She’s too busy raising her daughter and guarding her heart after one betrayal too many.

Brian is determined in his pursuit, and Alexis eventually lets him in. He’s everything Peter, her ex, wasn’t—kind, dependable, crazy about her and her daughter. But when a woman from Brian’s past shows up five months pregnant and claiming he’s the father, Alexis’s walls come crashing back down.

The test says the baby is his. But Brian swears it’s not true. As secrets unravel and old wounds reopen, both must decide if love is worth the risk—or if their happily ever after is just another story cut short.


Hockey Romance
He Falls First, Insta Love
Single Mom
Secret Daughter
She Plays Hockey
Insta Family
Confirmed Bachelor
She Doesn’t Believe In Love
Perennial Good Guy

Genres: Romance

Unknown Binding

About the author

Alisa Jean is the pseudonym for award-winning authors Marla A. White and C J Bahr. They first teamed up over thirty years ago over a bottle of Zima (don't ask) while polishing their gear for a horse show. They've since moved on to better beverages and writing novels.

Separately, Marla prefers to murder characters in the usual way, while C J uses paranormal means. The long-time best friends joined together as a writing team through their mutual love of hockey. Wonder Twin powers activated! Their hockey romances examine flawed characters with heart, humor, and sexy sizzle.

Reviews

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

He’s the top scorer for the LA Quakes, has 3 Stanley Cups, and a Conn Smythe Trophy—but all that glory lands Brian Anderson reffing a local beer league hockey tournament. One rough play later, he realizes the wicked slapshot he’s been admiring belongs to Alexis Barlowe—a single mom, a former Olympic-level women’s hockey player, and the woman who might just steal his heart. It’s love at first sight, but Alexis has been burned before, and she’s not about to risk her heart—or her daughter Miley’s—on an NHL superstar.

Their slow-burn romance is full of chemistry, laughter, and a few hard checks along the way. Brian’s patience and kindness make him the perfect match for Alexis, even when she makes him fight for every inch of ice. And when an emotional book censorship subplot hits close to home for Alexis and Miley, Brian and the Quakes rally behind them, showing just how much heart this found family has.

I adored seeing a PWHL player finally get her spotlight! With the women’s league growing and gaining attention, this story feels both timely and empowering. Author Alisa Jean continues to shine with her inclusive hockey world—complete with a BIPOC female team owner, a female NHL coach, and now a PWHL storyline I desperately hope gets its own spin-off series (Charlie and Jada, please!).

Brian might not bring the drama, but his quiet strength and unwavering loyalty make him the ultimate cinnamon roll MMC. While Luka’s book is still my series favorite, this one has a ton of heart, an amazing heroine, and a story that feels both real and romantic.

Read this if you love:
🏒 Hockey romance
💞 Single mom & love at first sight
👯 Twins & found family
🔥 Banter & slow burn
🥅 PWHL x NHL crossover
📚 Book censorship subplot
❤️ Sports romance with daddy issues & big heart energy

A heartfelt, empowering, and steamy sports romance that celebrates love, resilience, and women in hockey.

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love reading about women who are amazing and this one is right up there. Alexis is a single mom, amazing hockey player and knows what she wants. Brian is trying to woo her and pulls out all the stops, but Alexis is not falling for his charms. I loved that she held out as long as she could. This wasn’t a woman fawning all over him just because he was a hockey player, because she was one too!

Brian was sweet without being a pushover puppy dog. I liked how he stood up for his guys too. Alexis is my girl crush and I want to be like her when I grow up. Then when the spice hits - it is worth it. A really great, heartfelt, honest story that wasn’t over the top. Also thank you for writing a mom that can’t cook and that the guy doesn’t “rescue” her by being a fantastic cook.

I am really loving this series and can’t wait to see what trouble the guys get into next. 5/5⭐️5/5🌶️

I received an advanced copy of this book.

[Jess Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can you love if you feel like you’re incapable of it? Can you trust when you’ve been betrayed?

Brian is the latest novel in the Los Angeles Quakes Hockey series and keeps the series rolling in the best way.

Brian doesn’t think he is meant for relationships until he comes face to face with a hockey player that steals his heart. Ali doesn’t want to give her love or trust to another man until she meets someone who seems relentless.

Their story is sweet, fun, and emotional as both try to answer whether they can love and trust another person completely. Through sweet and spicy moments, these two begin to see that both may be true but can they hold on when it matters most?

Through their story, you’ll get to see some of your favorites characters from the previous books and get to see some new ones that might be a bit of a surprise. Jean keeps the strong found family feeling that has been the heart of this series holding strong.

If you’re looking for your next read, Brian is one to add to your TBR.

[Heather Angeli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alisa Jean’s Brian is a heartwarming yet emotionally charged hockey romance that blends charm, real-world responsibility, and the intoxicating thrill of unexpected love. It’s a story about trust, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to open your heart again — especially when life has already demanded so much of you.
Single mom Alexis Barlowe is just trying to juggle motherhood, work, and the occasional escape that comes in the form of her local beer league hockey team. She’s not looking for love — least of all with a professional athlete who could upend her carefully balanced world. But when NHL star Brian Anderson spots her on the ice, he’s instantly captivated.
Brian is the kind of man used to getting what he wants — confident, persistent, and undeniably charming. Yet Alexis is different. She’s guarded, fiercely independent, and determined to keep her private life, especially her role as a mom, out of the spotlight. When she reluctantly agrees to spend time with Brian, a bond begins to form — one that neither of them expected.
As their chemistry deepens and the line between casual and committed blurs, Alexis finds herself wanting more… just as a stunning revelation threatens to destroy everything. The couple’s fragile trust is tested in ways neither of them is prepared for. With a quick 3rd act breakup, Brian and Alexis are at a turning point of truth and forgiveness.
Absolutely devoured this story. I must go back and read the first 3!

[Crystal Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alexis is a single mom and she had always dreamed of playing hockey. She now plays in a rec league with her brother and his friends. She has cursed off love and all relationships after the father of her daughter bolted when she found out she was pregnant. Alexis is independent, stubborn, and an amazing mother always putting her first and never wanting to ask for help.

Brian has always sworn off love, but now that all of his friends have significant others, he is starting to think maybe he wants it too. And when he sees Alexis in a charity game, he is immediately smitten. But when she keeps turning him down, he can’t figure out how to get her to say yes, but he is not going to stop trying. Brian is afraid he will turn out like his father, even though he is such a good guy. He is the sweetest and goes above and beyond for her.

These two have amazing banter and chemistry. When Alexis finally gives in, their connection is electric and intense. They can’t deny it for long and when they give it, whew it’s spicy and he gives her everything.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the fourth book in the Quakes series and is a great addition. Alisia Jean does a good job of developing the plot, making the characters lovable and has an excellent writing style. Overall a good read especially if you've been keeping up with the whole series.

Brian is known as the Priest on the team. He is the one everyone goes to with problems but he keeps it to himself. He is very trustworthy but at the same time has his own trust issues. He (and his sister) grew up with an abusive father but thankfully his mom got them out at a young age. But that doesn't mean he doesn't have baggage from that; Brian doesn't think he can really love anyone. And then Alexis comes crashing in to his life. He is immediately intrigued by the spunky hockey player but she doesn't make it easy. In fact, Alexis blows him off multiple times and really makes him work for it. Alexis also has a bit of a past with an untrustworthy ex who gave her a beautiful young daughter that he wants nothing to do with. As these two spend time together, feelings get real. Brian is accepting of Alexis and loves her daughter and Alexis loves how Brian treats them both. But when a scandal ensues involving Brian, another woman and a pregnancy, can they support, love and trust each other? And even though the baby mom is adamant Brian is the father, he knows he is not. But then how does the DNA test come up positive?

Such a good plot twist in the book that really gave it that extra something. It really tested the relationship of the main characters. Love the character development and these two getting their happily ever after.

[N.N. Heaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brian Anderson plays center for the Los Angeles Quakes and hockey is his life. While he watched his teammates find love, he has no interest at all. That is, until he faces off against left-winger Alexis Barlowe at a charity game. She’s beautiful and plays hockey. He pursues her and she finally lets him in. She’s a single mom and he loves that. He falls hard for Alexis but all that is put in jeopardy when a woman from his past shows up claiming her unborn child is his. Secrets cloud his relationship with Alexis. Can Brian prove to Alexis his love is true, or will she put him in the penalty box forever?

Brian is a tender hockey romance featuring a hero and heroine who both play hockey. The descriptive narration is immersive, allowing the reader to dive into the story. The setting and world-building is all about hockey and dealing with obstacles, trust, and secrets. Once I started, I couldn’t put it down. The romance has a lot of tropes, many of which I enjoy. But it’s the characters who make this hockey romance unputdownable.

Both Brian and Alexis are written with a realistic brush. I swear they both remind me of friends of mine. Realism is peppered throughout this romance. Trust issues are at the forefront, but I really enjoyed how these characters worked through things. Emotions are high yet added just enough to keep me reading late into the night.

Fans of Elle Kennedy and Hannah Grace will enjoy this hockey romance.

My rating: 5+ stars

Reviewed by: Nancy

This review first appeared: https://substack.com/@nnlightsbookhea...

[Megan Colon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brian is the best. He is serious the golden retriever good guy. Everyone can count on him to be their safe sounding board. All is well in his world but he doesn’t have that someone special until a special hockey player crashes into his world. Alexis comes with her own baggage and a cute daughter. Now how can Brian win this woman over who is hellbent on saying no to every date. Every no never made him stop. He worked hard to change her mind and it was so cute. He was her biggest cheerleader. Sadly the trauma from their past comes and it puts a challenge in their path. It definitely makes you think about how there are ppl like this that really exist. Smh. But just reading this I was rooting for them to find their way out of it. I love that this has hockey elements in it and you can see the game going on. I think my favorite part is how it showcase women in a male dominated sport and all the advances women in hockey has made. If I played hockey this would so inspire me to kick the boys butt and show them that girls can play too if not better. I loved seeing previous characters like Luka and Matthew. This is a great serious. And I can’t wait to read the next player’s book.

[Marsha Graniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brian is sports romance with love at first sight vibes. This is Brian and Alexis’ story filled with romantic gestures and unexpected moments. I love how strong and badass Alexis is, being an ex hockey player and single mom, she would do anything for her daughter and put her first. When Brian comes in he is such an understanding man and very protective. I love their chemistry and how they worked together in helping Alexis daughter Miley with something important. I also liked how they handle the issues with mistaken accusations. Their story was an emotional roller coaster for me and I love how they handled the conflicts. I really enjoyed their story and can’t wait for the next one.

I voluntarily leave an honest review of this gifted advance reader copy.

[Lilian · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was interesting to read a sports romance where not only the male main character is good at it, but the female main character is equally adept at the sport. Alexis is an amazing hockey player who had to give up her dreams when she unexpectedly became pregnant in college.

Her past experience prevents her from giving Brian a chance initially. Despite that, his persistence, his honesty and his patience eventually shines through and he wins a chance.

I loved seeing both of them breaking down their walls, to give each other a chance at true love. The last act though, truly cemented the strong found family vibes, which is one of my favorite tropes.

[Bek ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is a delightful surprise! Brian, the charming NHL star, is refreshingly down to earth and fantastic with kids. Meeting Alexis, a single mum and ex-Olympic player, sparks instant chemistry, though she's understandably guarded. Their romance unfolds with laughter and warmth, and I loved how it's set against the vibrant hockey scene.

The found family vibe with the Quakes crew adds a nice touch, and the subplot about book censorship brings depth without feeling heavy.

Overall, it’s cozy, romantic, and just plain fun!

[Reads lotsa stuff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not like any other. A continuation of the Quakes series. Has references to previous books in the development of current characters but doesn’t dwell upon them. The storyline is clear. There are challenges for each of the main characters. There are secrets. Are there doppelgängers or someone from the past disappearing in the shadows. Can old dreams be rekindled? Will that change everything? Is there a future or will the secrets destroy it? A page turner that will keep you up nights!

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a sweet book. Brian was HEAD OVR HEELS for Al from the Beginning! I absolutely LOVED Sienna’s cameo ! And loved the all Girl Power PWHL aspect of this book. And all the girl power and fighting back against restricting books for our young ones. This book was great, beautiful, and their chemistry was incredible.

[Patricia · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️ 3/5
🌶 3/5

I really thought I was going to love this one, but unfortunately, it just didn’t resonate with me.
There were quite a few things that frustrated me, mainly the lack of communication between the characters, so I struggled to fully enjoy the story.

~Thank you to the author and Torch Lit Ink for provinding me with an ARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own"

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

[Louise Wardell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hockey romance

Brian and Alexis both bring some past drama into their relationship. Hockey brought them together, and their teammates get them back together. Good story.

[Smutty Professor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brian was such a sweet surprise. He’s this total NHL golden boy. He's steady, kind, way too good with kids, and somehow still ends up reffing a local beer league game where he meets Alexis. She’s a single mom, ex–pro-level hockey player, and basically everything he didn’t know he was looking for. From that first hit (literally), you can tell he’s a goner.

I really liked how Alexis was protective, a little guarded, but still soft underneath it all. She’s been through it, and she’s not about to let anyone mess with her or her daughter. Brian gets that, and instead of trying to fix her, he just shows up. He’s patient, funny, and completely smitten.

There’s a lot of hockey in this one, which I loved- it’s not just background noise. You get both the NHL and PWHL worlds colliding, plus some found-family vibes with the Quakes crew and Alexis’s friends. And the little subplot about book censorship was totally unexpected but really touching.

It’s romantic without being cheesy, emotional without dragging, and just plain cozy. Also, the side characters absolutely need their own books (Charlie, I’m looking at you)! If you are a hockey fan who loves some down-bad MMCs, the Los Angeles Quakes Hockey series should be on your TBR!

[Knyquol Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun read, it included much more hockey than the average sports romance, which is a bonus if you’re a hockey fan. Both characters have a considerable amount of baggage from past trauma however it was refreshing to have the male main character have the more stable, emotional intelligence and desire to work through the tough moments the pair faced. The side characters particularly Charlie and Miley were hilarious. This was a very sweet romcom.