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Milwaukee Serpents #1

Pucking Tempest

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.

522 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 12, 2026

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About the author

Liz Lincoln

24 books90 followers
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.

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5 stars
31 (42%)
4 stars
36 (49%)
3 stars
6 (8%)
2 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
Profile Image for Jamie.
828 reviews22 followers
February 15, 2026
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and definitely see the rest of the series getting better as we go along.

Things I Liked:
- The MMC. Talk about the greenest of green flags to ever be in a book. No complaints with him. If I ascribed to book boyfriends, he might just be at the top.

- The hockey team. Other than the FMC's brother, I want to get to know every single hockey player. I want their books, their romances, their stories. I absolutely loved them all.

- The hockey was very well written. I enjoyed it.

Things I Didn't Like:
- Pepper. She's the FMC's best friend, and to me, it felt like she had no boundaries. She looks at a nude photo the MMC sent the FMC - and the FMC doesn't even tell the MMC, which pissed me off (double standard, much?!), she tells 3 different people about the FMC/MMC being together, even though the FMC has told her numerous times she wanted it to be kept secret.

- The FMC's reasoning for wanting to keep them a 'secret'. It was a doing of her own insecurities, if I'm being honest. And it was very annoying to constantly see.

- The MMC saying he wasn't blameless for the 3rd act conflict. Uh, he absolutely WAS blameless. The MMC consistently and continuously communicated what he wanted with the FMC, and left EVERYTHING up to her. Everything. He had zero blame in that conflict.

Sex Things:
- 5+ explicit scenes
- Anal play (man), various positions, toys.

What I'd Like to See in the Future:
- A rarity, but if Pepper gets a book/relationship, I want to see it happen with Gavin.
- The coach and whatever is going on with him.
- WES. WES WES WES.
Profile Image for Cazlovesbooks.
394 reviews14 followers
January 31, 2026
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. 🔥📚
Profile Image for Parker parkers_bookshelves.
258 reviews
February 13, 2026
This is one of those hockey romances where the chemistry jumps off the page immediately, but what really sold me was the personalities. Charlie is such a standout FMC- she’s driven, competent, and not afraid to speak her mind. I loved how she balances being ambitious and professional while still having moments of vulnerability. She feels real. Not perfect, not overly dramatic... just human in the best way. And Leif??? Elite book boyfriend material. He’s confident (because obviously, pro hockey player), but he’s not cocky in an annoying way. There’s a softness under his intensity that makes his feelings hit harder. He clearly cares deeply, and watching him try to navigate second chances and prove himself was chef’s kiss. The pining... the tension... Incredible. Their dynamic is what really makes this book shine. There’s history there, which gives everything more weight. The banter feels natural, the tension is so good, and when they finally give in? Worth it.
Profile Image for ShannonsParty.
166 reviews1 follower
January 29, 2026
“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 😘.
Profile Image for Farrahlea.
262 reviews10 followers
February 12, 2026
I have really been enjoying hockey romance lately and this one takes the puck. I feel in love with the characters and it's going to be on my shelf so I can re-read it time over time!!!
Profile Image for thesmokymountainsreader.
204 reviews15 followers
February 19, 2026
Pucking Tempest (Milwaukee Serpents #1)
Author: Liz Lincoln


Pucking Tempest is the first book in the Milwaukee Serpents series. In the prequel novella, Puck Me Tonight, Leif and Charlie part ways after only spending one night together, thinking they will never see each other again. Charlie leaves her phone number with Leif, but accidentally leaves the wrong digits. So Pucking Tempest begins several months later, when Charlie and Leif are reunited because he is traded to the Serpents. He is also her new next-door neighbor. Charlie works for the team as their social media manager, and her brother is a hockey player there. Sparks fly again because the two are drawn together like moths to a flame, but her brother despises Leif. And, of course, there’s the unspoken rule about not dating your teammate’s sister. So, naturally, Charlie is worried. Her brother’s feelings toward Leif, Charlie's working for the team, and her father's position in upper management lead her to believe they should keep their relationship quiet.

Charlie is a self-assured, confident young woman (except on the matter of dating Leif). She has a great group of friends, and I love the sense of found family within it. When it comes to her actual family, things get a little more muddy. She is clearly afraid to tell her brother she has a relationship with Leif. She’s in her head a lot, so she does have some insecurities. I like how real her character feels, as if she could be me, or any one of my friends. Leif is the perfect book boyfriend if I ever read one. He’s confident, but not conceited, and he clearly pines for Charlie. He gets a tattoo for her. I mean…come on. Charlie and Leif have an intense, undeniable chemistry on the page, and things get steamy. Very steamy.

The book is fun, entertaining, and spicy. The pacing is on point. The author really knows how to write comedy and romance together. The group text banter is funny and seems like most friend group texts, although I’m not sure it should have been placed at the beginning of the book. I found that a tad confusing. The hockey parts were entertaining and well-written. I enjoyed most of the friends/side characters, and I can see several of them getting their own books in the future. The book was too long for my taste; I think some parts could have been made shorter. If you like the tropes of workplace romances, he-falls-first, hockey, a teammate’s sister, someone who got away, group texting, and him getting a tattoo for her, then you will like this book!
Overall, I enjoyed it and am giving it four blazing hot hockey pucks!

(I would also like to add that I sincerely loved the dedication to Carla Luna at the beginning of the book.)

Thank you to @inkslingerpr and @lizlincolnauthor for the early copy. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for The Millennial Mood Reader.
279 reviews12 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 3, 2026
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.
1,509 reviews8 followers
February 18, 2026
I'm giving this a three despite my dislike of Charlie simply because the book must be decently written for me to actually feel something towards a character, even if the feeling is negative.

Charlie's actions didn't match her words. For example (and I'm summarizing here):

Charlie: "I want to be taken seriously by the team and my coworkers. I'm afraid they think I got this job just because of nepotism. I want to prove myself. That's why I can't have sex with Leif."
Also Charlie: "I'm going to wear clothes that could make the team members/my coworkers look at me as just a sex object to professional gatherings." "I won't have sex with Leif, but I will do pretty much everything else."

Charlie: "While I'm not judging Vivi, I don't get the 'fad of making cartoon characters into sexy characters' [for Halloween]. How can Vivi not see that I'm Medusa? BTW, Medusa is misunderstood, misinterpreted by men and deserves respect."
Also Charlie: "I'm going to honour Medusa by going as a sexy version of her to a Halloween party with my coworkers. I will judge people [represented by Vivi] for not knowing who she is even though I didn't style my hair into snakes [you know, one of Medusa's key features for people not well versed in mythology]. And I'm totally judging Vivi for her costume. But Leif's version of the costume is totally okay."

Despite all the declarations that Leif and Charlie felt more for each other than just lust, they seemed to be stuck firmly in the lust phase. And some of the sex scenes/masturbation scenes/sex toy mentions seemed gratuitous and 'spice for spice's sake'-- they didn't further the plot. I don't mind open door books but the amount in this book might be overkill for some people.

The book got points for inclusivity, but I thought more could've been done with Leif being bisexual-- not MM sex scenes, but a couple of admiring glances at some guy for example (not a teammate-- no need to make things messy). It seemed that making him bisexual was a vehicle for integrating issues such as queerphobia into the story in a way that supposedly would be unrealistic if the character was a cisgender white straight male.

And random thing: why did Charlie and Pepper dress so similarly to many events?

I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
1,208 reviews38 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 3, 2026
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.
Profile Image for Patty .
1,467 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 6, 2026
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.
Profile Image for HeadCanonHeadCase.
1,532 reviews13 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 7, 2026
3.5 rounded up to 4

Charlie accepts a job with the Milwaukee Serpents even though she had been hoping to work for a different team. It means she'll be working for the team her brother plays for. And her father is part of the front office. She thinks living in their shadows will be the most difficult part of the job until Leif. He's the man she shared a one-night stand with seven months ago and hasn't been able to forget. She thought he ghosted her but really, he's been trying to find her after the number she gave him turned out to be the wrong one.

Read if you like:
-One-Night Stand to Something More
-Teammate's Sister
-Workplace Romance
-Queer Romance/Bisexual Rep

I definitely recommend reading Puck Me Tonight before starting Pucking Tempest. The novella sets up the one-night stand between Charlie and Leif and establishes why they were never able to find the other after. You probably could pick up Pucking Tempest without reading the prequel, but then you'd miss some amazing spice.

My favorite thing about Charlie and Leif's story over both books was how their bisexuality was handled. I love to see that sort of support and validation on the page. Their chemistry was also off the charts. They were both so hot and hot together.

Pucking Tempest did run a little long and was a little repetitive. A little trim would have helped just a little bit, but otherwise, it was a great read!
Profile Image for leny.books.
120 reviews3 followers
February 15, 2026
Pucking Tempes by Liz Lincoln delivers a deliciously intense sports romance packed with forbidden tension, longing, and emotional stakes.
Leif was supposed to be a one-night stand — the best night of Charlie’s life, but still just one night. Seven months later, he’s her brother’s new teammate. She works for the team. And she lives next door to him. If that’s not fate meddling, what is?
The “off-limits sister” trope is executed perfectly. The unspoken rule, the overprotective brother, the pressure to protect the team’s chemistry — every element raises the stakes. And when Leif makes it clear he’s not willing to stay away, the tension skyrockets.
Charlie is strong yet emotionally conflicted, constantly battling between logic and desire. Leif is confident and magnetic, but deeply sincere when it comes to her. Their chemistry is undeniable, but what makes this story compelling is the emotional depth behind the passion. Stolen moments turn into something far more powerful than either of them expected.
The pacing is addictive, the banter is sharp, and the romantic tension is intense from beginning to end. It’s a story about risk, about choosing love even when it could cost you everything — and about breaking the rules for something that feels worth it.
Perfect for readers who love:
Sports romance
Brother’s teammate trope
One-night stand to lovers
Secret relationships
High emotional and physical tension
Profile Image for Ashley.
287 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 7, 2026
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.
Profile Image for Cheryl.
7,040 reviews250 followers
February 18, 2026
Charlie and Leif shared one steamy night together. Charlie and Leif thought that was the end and they would never see each other again. In fact, Leif did not even know Charlie's name, so you can imagine his surprise when he saw her again. All he knew her by was the nickname he called her "Tempest". I love Leif's nickname for Charlie of "Tempest".

Leif and Charlie tried their best to avoid each other and not give into the attraction they felt for one another. A big reason is that Leif plays on the same team as Charlie's brother. Yet the more time they are around each other the feelings grow stronger. Um, yes please! The heat. Let me say that again the HEAT!!

I am a sucker for group chats in books. They are hilarious and what I feel a gold mine. They show all of the personalities of the characters. This book features two chats...the women's and the guy's. They are as follows:

The Pepper Kopp Clique (Women's)

Pepper, Dana, Emma, Charlie, Benny, Wendy, Anni, and Jeanette

Captain's Log (Men's)

Captain Monk, Mullet, Peaches, Treezy, Romeo, and Shawzy

The men's chat features a lot of the guy's nicknames of course. I loved everything about this book. None of the other characters felt like side pieces. I love my romances hot and Leif and Charlie gave me all the hotness. So much that they could melt the ice rink. This book scores a goal!

Profile Image for Patty.
465 reviews12 followers
February 13, 2026
ARC Review - 3.5 stars

This was such a fun brother's teammate hockey romance. It's the first book in the series and I cannot wait to read the other hockey players' stories. Charlie is driven, relatable, and yearns to make a name for herself outside of her father and brother (both part of the Serpents organization). Leif was just traded to the Serpents and is the sweetest man ever. This guy has all the green flags - confident, sweet, thoughtful, and obsessed with Charlie. Together, their chemistry was off the charts. You can just feel the instant attraction and mutual pining for one another was great to read. I did however think the build up got a little repetitive and felt like it was dragging. So, I think that portion could have been shortened. And while I love the side characters, I thought there were almost too many all at once. I felt like I was coming in in the middle of the day series with established relationships rather than the start of a series. Don't get me wrong though I'm still looking forward to reading all the other hockey player stories, especially Wes. There is a prequel to this book which centers around their one night stand. I did not read it, but I didn't feel like I was really missing anything except maybe more spice. Overall, it was a fun one night stand turning into more romance, and I'm looking forward to the next one.
Profile Image for Deanna.
295 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 7, 2026
Thank you Liz Lincoln for the ARC. This is my honest review.

After one night (and a morning) of steamy passion, Leif and Charlie go their separate ways, not expecting to see each other again. When Charlie takes the Social Media position at the local NHL team, she's surprised to see Leif has signed to the tea. Suddenly, all those feelings and passion come back and the two try to resist the pull to the other. Not only do they work together, but Charlies brother plays on the team and her dad is the Assistant GM. But their attraction is too strong.

I absolutely loved this one. It had me up late, reading between chores, and dying to be able to see how it ended! The yearning between these two MC's was everything and did I mention the secret tattoo? My heart swooned so much throughout this book.

Tropes:
Teammates sister, workplace romance, secret tattoo, he takes care of her, dog dad, he comes in his pants, yearning blone mmc, toys as allies

Fans of Play With Me by Becka Mack should def check this one out!
Profile Image for Nan.
194 reviews1 follower
February 18, 2026
I loved the story of Charlie and Lief! This is a contemporary romance set in the professional world of ice hockey and based in Milwaukee. Charlie and Lief had met and had an incredible connection a few months ago. They agreed to not share their real names though Charlie had given her number to Lief.

Turns out she had mixed up a digit and ended up giving him a wrong number. This miscommunication led to them having no way to reach out for the next few months.

By this time Lief had joined a new team in Milwaukee while Charlie had started a new job filling in for the team's social media manager.

When their paths finally cross again, Charlie and Lief have to stick to friendship as her brother is part of the team. Her father is also a retired hockey player who works as a general manager.

How Charlie and Lief navigate their relationship while keeping it a secret from her family and his teammates is what makes the story so compelling.

In the end Charlie and Lief show amazing growth and self-reflection to finally show their love for each other openly and without any inhibitions.

The supporting characters were well-written and people who everyone would love to have as a friend or team member.

Highly recommend 👌🏻
Profile Image for Heather  Lachelle Fulmer.
689 reviews4 followers
February 24, 2026
Read Puck Me Tonight 1st!!!!

Seven months after an anonymous one-night stand neither of them can forget, Charlie and Leif crash back into each other’s lives in the most chaotic way possible—when he’s traded to the Milwaukee Vortex… the exact team where she works. Oh, and her overprotective brother? Yeah. He’s Leif’s new teammate.

The tension? Immediate.
The chemistry? Off the charts.
The drama? Delicious.

What I loved most about this book was how layered it felt beneath all the spice and banter. Charlie is navigating a controlling father who’s spent her life making her feel like she’s not enough, while also dealing with a brother who means well but suffocates her all the same. Watching her step into her own confidence—especially with someone like Leif, who clearly sees her worth—was so satisfying.

And Leif? Obsessed. The way he never forgot her. The way their connection picked right back up like no time had passed. Their scenes were steamy, playful, and packed with emotion.

This book had heat, heart, and just the right amount of chaos. I absolutely loved it.
Profile Image for HEATHER.
1,482 reviews23 followers
February 19, 2026
I read the prequel to this book and really enjoyed it! I fell in love with the characters and was excited to see where they were heading with this book. I really enjoy these characters because they have amazing chemistry. My biggest problem with this book was that it was very repetitive and I felt like it was way to long.

Charlie and Leif had a one night stand 9 months ago and neither one could forget about each other. Then when Charlie starts her new job working with her brother she realizes that Leif is the new player on the hockey team. These two are blown away that they will finally be spending time together but they don't want anyone to know that they had been together before.

I loved their deep conversations and their honesty with their sexuality. I loved getting to know the rest of the characters and will be waiting to see what will happen in the next book.

Thank you Liz Lincoln for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Megan Czarnyszka.
5 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 7, 2026
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. 💙📚
Profile Image for Angie Holycross.
33 reviews
February 12, 2026
This book should come with a warning that it is a gateway book into the rest of this series. Not only did I finish this story half in love with both Charlie and Leif, but now I'm invested in the rest of my new friends and teammates. I truly adored this second chance (they had a one night stand in the prequel novella) hockey romance where the FMC and the MMC were undeniably attracted to each other both emotionally and physically, but could not be together for various reasons outside of their control. He played hockey with her brother, and she worked for the team he played for. The yearning in this book was top tier as Leif was just down bad from the moment the book started and just kept falling more and more in love with her with each passing moment. May we all have that kind of devotion. Can't wait for all the rest in this series!
Profile Image for Kari Tidwell (karisbookstodevour).
1,369 reviews10 followers
February 14, 2026
A solid second chance romance with a ton of family drama, some seriously steamy chemistry, an all in he falls first sexy hockey player, and an FMC who is trying to prove herself in a man’s world, escape the stigma of nepotism, and resist her brother’s teammate who isn’t making it easy. Leif is a fantastic MMC, love how sure he is of how he feels about Charlie, his close friends are a riot and keep the entertainment factor delightful, and while I had moments where I seriously wanted to just throttle Charlie and I was as devastated as Leif towards the end, between her brother, her father, working in a male dominated industry, and wanting nothing more than to be known for her own work and capabilities, frustrating or not, her feelings are valid and easily understandable. It’s a strong read that keeps you invested and gives you a really fabulous HEA.
Profile Image for Alicia.
2,226 reviews25 followers
February 11, 2026
This is a fabulous, warm at heart second chance romance. After a wonderful and very hot night together months previously, as seen in Puck Me Tonight, the prequel to this book, both Leif and Charlie assume that they have been ghosted, but have never forgotten each other! Their shock and immediately pull to each other when they meet again after Leif's transfer to the team, for which Charlie is now working, leads to complications of team and family obligations.
This book has so much heart. Leif is an absolute sweetheart of a man, and Charlie definitely deserves a man who is devoted to her happiness. They are so honest with each other, and I valued their honesty about their preferences. This has definitely been a book that caught me up in the feelings and kept me entertained 💖💖💖💖
Profile Image for Petra.
1,631 reviews
February 12, 2026
This story captivated me from the start. It’s an intense, steamy, and unforgettable journey. It took some time before Leif and Charlie reached their happily ever after, but it was so worth the wait! I wished that Charlie stood up for herself a bit sooner, but when she finally did it made impact.

I loved all characters (I really hope to find out what happened between Charlie's brother Eddie and her best friend Pepper) as well as the storyline.

You don’t need to read Puck Me Tonight (the prequel of this book) to understand the story, but I highly recommend it, simply because you don’t want to miss out on the way Leif and Charlie met.

I received an arc of this book from the author, and this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
Profile Image for Hannah.
78 reviews1 follower
February 5, 2026
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!

Profile Image for Heidi Cobb.
220 reviews18 followers
February 19, 2026
If you love high-heat hockey romance with sharp banter and serious emotional depth, Pucking Tempest absolutely delivers. Liz Lincoln blends intense chemistry with layered character development, creating a story that feels both steamy and heartfelt. The tension between the leads is electric from the start, but what really stands out is how their personal growth unfolds alongside the romance.

With strong pacing, compelling dynamics, and just the right amount of angst, this book is a satisfying mix of passion and vulnerability. A great pick for readers who enjoy sports romance packed with emotion and spice.
Profile Image for Kacie Mummawh0reads.x.
830 reviews32 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 2, 2026
⭐️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
Profile Image for BobbiJo.
938 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 10, 2026
Pucking Tempest was so great!

Angsty but not necessarily in a way that would make you anxious (talking to you anxiety readers, I think you can handle this one!) While there is definite longing, it is broken up by the fact these two can’t keep their hands off each other.

Leif is the prettiest picture of healthy masculinity, he is so respectful of Pepper and really all women. I loved Pepper’s character too, even if I think she held the opinions of her brother and father way too high in her life, she gets it right eventually.

So yes this is angsty, but also so sweet and funny.
3,266 reviews9 followers
February 16, 2026
Second chance
I was so happy to read this after reading the prequel, Puck Me Tonight. Charlie and Leif are great characters and I was cheering for them the whole way.
Their journey isn’t easy due to tensions with her brother and father, work proximity and the forbidden nature of their relationship.
This is full of great characters who I look forward to seeing more of as the series continues, witty banter, humour, bi and chronic illness representation, drama, secrets, heart, steam, swoons and romance.
Profile Image for Brandi Augustine.
1,100 reviews36 followers
February 17, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. I definitely recommend reading the prequel first. Charlie and Leif just have undeniable chemistry between the two of them.

Charlie is such a strong FMC and really enjoyed her character. She is real and not perfect which makes her relatable. There are reasons for things she does.

Leif is that MMC that just makes you swoon and want one of him in real life. I mean, hello, hockey player who isn't super cocky, yes please.

I don't want to give anything away but this book has spice and banter with a plot that just loved!
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