Pucking Tempest

Milwaukee Serpents #1

by Liz Lincoln

Seven months after an anonymous one night stand that neither can forget, Charlie and Leif find each other again when he's traded to the Milwaukee Vortex. Where she works, and where he brother is his teammate. Spicy hijinks ensue.

Genres: Sports Romance

522 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication February 12, 2026

About the author

Liz has been concocting stories as long as she can remember, and from the beginning they involved two people falling in love.

When she's not writing, she spends her time rooting for the UW Badgers and the Green Bay Packers (or yearning for the return of football season), cross-stitching and embroidering sassy sayings or nerdy characters (Wonder Woman is her favorite), and drinking too much Diet Coke.

She lives in Milwaukee, WI, with her husband, two kids, three cats, and a turtle.

Reviews

[ShannonsParty · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I tilt my head and press my lips against hers. Home. I've finally come home.” -Leif

TROPES:
😢 One Who Got Away
🤩 He falls first
🏒 Hockey Player
👫 Teammate’s sister
🏢 Workplace romance
❤️‍🩹 Hurt Comfort Romance
💆‍♀️ Chronic Illness Rep
💜🩷 Bi4Bi Rep

One night stand 9 mo ago. They never reconnected even though they had a connection. He can’t stop thinking about her.

MFC uses her brothers relationship with the team, and the fact that her father is in upper management, to dictate her relationship with MMC. She grew up in the stadium, around all of management, and has an MBA. Gurl is a rockstar on her own, but her family makes her feel less than. She’s in her head the entirety of the read.

Lots of deep thoughts and conversations in this novel. I Love Charlie & Leif’s sexual honesty. The vulnerable and frank conversations they have during smeggsy time are top notch and feel real.

Spice: 🌶️🌶️/5. What I would consider “Standard” smeggsy scenes for a spicy novel. Lots of them, even a backdoor toy scene included for him 😘.

[The Millennial Mood Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review: Pucking Tempest🏒

I love a second chance romance.. add in a hot hockey player and yeah you’ve got my attention! This book picks up after the spicy, novella Puck Me Tonight which I HIGHLY recommend before reading this. It really shows the instant connection and chemistry between Leif and Charlie! I loved how patient Leif was throughout the entire book. This man is a walking green flag and Charlie really was just trying to do the right thing by being professional. I get why she wanted to be able to stand on her own and get out from her brothers and fathers shadows. Despite trying to be “just friends” with Leif the pull between them was just too strong. Leif wanted to be there for her in any capacity. He helps take care of her when she’s sick and also remembers her allergies and checks in with her! SWOON! 😍 and can we talk about the secret tattoos?!! Eeekkk!!
Obviously their chemistry is off the charts!! You know that if you read the prequel but it carries over into this book and the spice doesn’t disappoint! Andee can’t forget to mention the adorable dog he adopted, again All.The.Green.Flags!!💚

Now I could not stand Charlie’s dad ( the Asst. GM of the team) He was very dismissive of her and her own success. The way he belittled her in front of family and friends at the table was horrid! Her brother was also hard to like for the majority of the book. He is portrayed as a “f-ck boy” hockey player but yet won’t be happy for his sister for being with one guy (a teammate) yeah.. very hypocritical. (Insert eye roll) Her brother also uses her and is constantly leaving his dog for her to care for and he never seems appreciative.

One thing that also irked me was how her “best friend” Pepper continued to out Charlie’s and Leif's secret relationship to the other women in their friend group without Charlie’s consent.. that didn’t sit well with me even though it wasn’t done in a malicious way I could never to that to my bff. It’s her story to tell. I did love how Pepper gave Eddie (Charlie’s brother) H€LL! He deserved it most of it

Charlie’s grand gesture was really sweet! I really enjoyed that moment between her and Leif! And the epilogue was the perfect HEA!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️

Tropes:
Sports Romance
Second Chance Romance
Workplace romance
Pro Hockey player MMC
Cinnamon roll MMc
Smart, loyal FMC
She works for the Team
Forced Proximity
Found Family
Secret Relationship
One Who Got Away
He falls first
Teammate’s sister
Hurt/ Comfort
Chronic Illness Rep
Bi4Bi Rep

Thank you to Inkslinger PR and Author Liz Lincoln for the eARC. All opinions are my own.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Pucking Tempest by Liz Lincoln, the classic "brother’s teammate" trope is given a fresh, high-stakes spin that makes for an absolutely addictive read. The story begins with what was supposed to be a simple, anonymous one-night stand—the kind of evening Charlie spent seven months trying to forget because it was, quite frankly, the best night of her life. The mystery man, Leif, is no longer a distant memory when Charlie starts her new job working for the same professional hockey team where her overprotective brother plays. Not only is Leif her brother’s newest teammate, but he also happens to be her new next-door neighbor.

The conflict is immediate and delicious, built on the unspoken rule that teammates' sisters are strictly off-limits. This tension is further complicated by the fact that Charlie’s brother can’t stand Leif, creating a minefield of professional and personal risks. Despite the boundaries they should be respecting, the magnetic pull between Charlie and Leif is impossible to ignore. As they transition from strangers to friends and eventually to something much deeper, the "forbidden" nature of their relationship only heightens the romantic tension and the undeniable chemistry they share.

What makes this book stand out is the quality of the writing and the perfection of the character arcs. Leif is a hero who isn’t willing to keep his distance, and his persistence is matched by Charlie’s own internal struggle as she constantly pushes her own boundaries. Their secret dates and stolen kisses evolve into a complicated, heartfelt passion that forces them to decide if their connection is worth blowing up the team’s chemistry or facing the wrath of a protective sibling.

Ultimately, Pucking Tempest is a beautifully paced romance about realizing that some people are worth breaking all the rules for. It captures the transition from insatiable desire to a love that neither character can live without, proving that the greatest risks often lead to the biggest wins. Whether you are a fan of sports romance or just love a well-executed "secret relationship" story, Charlie and Leif’s journey is one you won't want to miss.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG!!! If you thought the pre-quel was hot as F, then this book is sure to peak your interest. This book is just as hot if not hotter than it's quickie of a predecessor.

This book picks up where Charlie is starting her new job working for the Serpents Hockey Team. The job she is really over qualified for and not entirely happy about taking. But a job is a job, even if it is with her brother and father.

Leif has been traded to the Serpents. Which he is super excited about since his bestie Wes is the Captain of the team. He is happy to be playing hockey with him again. He is in the zone even though he has been thinking about a one night stand he had back in LA. But don't worry, fate has plans for him.

This book is fun, entertaining and oh so steamy. It has an amazing character line up that is sure to provide many more books to come. I fell in love with Leif from the very first pre-queal book and enjoyed seeing him find his happily ever after. Eddie on the other hand I wanted to throat punch a few times or tell him to grow up. But his reasons are revealed for the insta hate he gives. Maybe in future books he will be a better dog dad.

Overall this book is amazing and hockey rom-coms are my absolute favorite genres. If I had another author to compare this authors writing skills to it would be Teagan Hunter (Queen of Hockey Rom-Com). Liz Lincoln blends humor and romance together perfectly and is on point with her story telling. Her books are a steady paced read with amazing endings. I highly recommend this book to all those Hockey Romance fans. Warning this book contains graphic sexual scenes. sexual orientation and belittling behaviours.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a great book, and I enjoyed every minute of reading it. The chemistry between the MMC and the FMC was so hot—the kind of chemistry you can feel humming under the surface even when they’re not touching, talking, or even in the same room. Their dynamic was electric, intense, and impossible to look away from. Every interaction between them added another spark, and by the time things truly ignited, it felt completely earned.

The storyline hooked me right from the very beginning. The opening pulled me in immediately, and from that point on, I was fully invested. The pacing was tight, the emotional beats landed beautifully, and the combination of tension, romance, and character development kept me turning pages without wanting to stop. This book held onto me all the way until the final line, and not once did it lose momentum.

I also want to say how truly honored I felt to be chosen for the opportunity to ARC read this book. Being able to experience this story early and offer my honest thoughts is something I never take lightly, and I’m grateful I got the chance. This was absolutely worth the read, and I’m so glad I got to be part of its early journey.

A captivating story, sizzling chemistry, and characters who stay with you long after closing the book—this one checked all the boxes.

[Cazlovesbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

After one unforgettable night together (Puck Me Tonight), Leif and Charlie go their separate ways—thanks to a miscommunication that leaves them with no way to find each other again.

Eight months later, fate steps in. Leif is the newest player on the hockey team… and Charlie just happens to be the team’s social media manager. The reunion feels like a dream—until reality crashes in.

Charlie’s fiercely protective brother despises Leif with a burning passion, and choosing Leif could mean losing her family. Will Charlie risk everything for the man she never stopped loving, or walk away before it all falls apart?

Loved this book! The prequel hooked me instantly, and I had to read this one to see how it all turned out—so glad I did.

Leif is absolutely adorable, and my heart ached for Charlie being torn between her family and her soulmate. I also loved the supportive hockey boys and Charlie’s friends.

It’s also very spicy and includes some fun use of toys, which just adds to the enjoyment. 🔥📚

[Emma Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

🩷 Blurb-
Seven months after an anonymous one night stand that neither can forget, Charlie and Leif find each other again when he's traded to the Milwaukee Vortex. Where she works, and where he brother is his teammate. Spicy hijinks ensue.
🩵 Review -
I'm loving all the Hockey Romance novels that are around at the moment and Pucking Tempest certainly didn't disappoint. From the very first page the author's writing had me hooked and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. The story was easy to follow and there was a great cast of characters, plus the pacing was just right. I loved Charlie and Leif's spicy chemistry and I wanted them to have the happy ending that they deserved. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to the author for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[Megan Czarnyszka · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fun, satisfying read. I am a total sucker for a male lead who genuinely cares for his partner in all the right ways emotionally, attentively, and yes, very intentionally, and this book delivered without losing depth. The romance feels earned, not rushed, and there is a great balance between the love story and the overall plot.

I also loved the cast of side characters. We meet just enough of them to feel invested without it becoming overwhelming, and their group dynamic, especially the friend group chats and banter, adds so many layers and laughs. The comedic relief is perfectly timed throughout, keeping things light while still supporting the story.

I finished this book smiling and immediately counting down to Book 2 this fall. If you enjoy romance with heart, humor, and a strong storyline, and super hot bedroom chemistry, this one is absolutely worth picking up. 💙📚

[Jessica O'Neal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pucking Tempest starts us 7 months later after the prequel Puck Me Tonight during the new season where Charlie is now working with the Serpents against what she really wanted to do and Leif has been traded. After the first game they realize who each is and Leif wants to pick up where they left off. But Charlie doesn't want to rock the boat in a misogynistic area of sports where she thinks she only got her job out of nepotism. But with the connection they had, can they really keep their hands off each other? She is also " off limits" as her brother is Leif's teammate.

This was a little drawn out for me at 522 pages, but still a really good story line with a lot of good spice and an over abundance of love.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charlie and Leif’s story was fun to read! They are adorable and it progressed well through the book. After reading the prequel I’m glad there wasn’t any major delay in reconnecting the two of them at the start of this one.

The story had a lot of moving parts with introducing other characters in this world, but it was easy to follow and did not cause confusion for me. Makes me look forward to future stories including them. ☺️

Well written spiciness that did not take over the plot but was a fun addition 🤭

It was fun being approached to receive an ARC of this. Release date of February 12th!

[Kacie Mummawh0reads.x · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️3.5🌶️3💧0

I was so hopeful for this book. As the prequel was good. But sadly there were moments that overshadowed and imo were unnecessary. I also found the book to be quite repetitive. With editing and some changes this could be a great book! I did enjoy the chemistry between the characters and those smexy scenes were a little flustering if you catch my drift *winky face* and before you ask, YES! I would even read the next in the series.


#brothersteammate #hefallsfirst #secretromance #professionalhockey

[Steph Beaudoin · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you can, read the Prequel first. You don't have to, but it's really hot!
Things I am here for:
Bisexual representation! Bi for Bi in this story!
Chronic Illness Representation: severe allergies, asthma, & Raynaud's disease (y’all know I'm bad at breathing and us asthma girlies don't get a lot of representation 🫁)
Women in Sports! Heck yeah!

My own history mimics Charlie's where I fell in love with an ice hockey player while I was working in sports. I did not want to be a hockey player's girlfriend. I was really worried about being taken seriously because of who I loved. Liz Lincoln absolutely nails the double standards faced by women in male sports. And because this is romance, we get our HEA.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A complicated second chance meeting of that one knight stand from months ago. Too bad you both work for the Serpents and dating would cause major issues. Sometimes the chemistry and pull is so strong you can't hold back from what you both want. Temptation at its best, steamy, hot and so unpredictable.

[Eleanor · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars. I loved this.

Bisexual MMC and FMC.
Very well-written sex scenes - and I also loved that Charlie's best friend Pepper reviewed sex toys, and that Charlie and Leif were both on board with using toys together.
Good use of texts / group chats.
Protective older brother.
It's always fun to read about a couple who both want to be together but are trying to stay away due to work/family/other external pressures.


*I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for proof-reading it, this is an honest review*

[Reading is escaping reality · Rating 4 out of 5]

We get more! Picking up where the prologue left off. After months of not being able to get each other out of their heads. Only to find out they will be seeing a lot more of one another. Have no fear that simmering heat that ignited between them, comes back full force!

[Isha Coleman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet and spicy collide with irresistibly fun results. From a comedy of errors to delicious temptation, Pucking Tempest is a powder keg of feeling. Lincoln turns unpredictable into unforgettable. Charlie and Leif deliver a party for the senses. A Must Read Showstopper.

[Kellie w · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great spice. Doesn't get too into the weeds about hockey but Lincoln obviously knows enough to write about it realistically. definitely read Puck Me Tonight first.