Firecracker

by Samantha Lane

Catching the eye of a random hockey player on your college team? Coincidence. That same player being paired with your grandfather in a volunteer program? Fate.
Reese Ashwood has one to make her grandfather, Pops, proud. Transferring to his alma mater was the first step. Now she needs to keep her head down and focus on her grades. Seems easy enough.
Then she meets Louie.
Louie Watkins, the center for the University of Western Minnesota’s hockey team, has only one thing on his mind—making it to the Frozen Four. However, when his eyes connect with hers in the stands, his entire world is flipped upside down. The immediate spark he feels has him wanting to drop everything to learn her name.
Thrown together by fate, Reese struggles to ignore the spark between them. But will allowing a little fun risk everything Reese has worked for, or will it be the one thing she never knew she needed?


Hockey Romance
Insta-love (he falls hard and fast)
Golden Retriever MMC
Wallflower FMC
A “bet” is placed
Some forced proximity
Found Family
No third-act break up

304 pages

Published December 13, 2025

Reviews

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I usually love hockey romances and from reading the dedication, I had a feeling this one would be particularly heartwarming and I was right. I loved that Louie and Reese had an instant connection the moment they laid eyes on each other and that Louie knew he loved Reese first. I also loved Reese’s relationship with her grandfather and that Louie comes to know her grandfather well too. Found families are one of my favorite tropes and their found family of Ari, Ryan, Miles and eventually Evie are one of the best ones I’ve read. This book is also spicy which I enjoyed. Make sure to read the trigger warnings since there are some sensitive subjects touched on in the book. Thank you to author Samantha Lane for the opportunity to read this early.

[Nicole Wills · Rating 5 out of 5]

Louie is a textbook example of golden retriever. If you were to look in the romance dictionary, his picture would be there. Reese definitely makes him work for it but in the best way. There are so many heartwarming moments in this book! Be prepared with batteries and tissues - you will most definitely need them. Pops and Ryan may be my favorite side characters ever! You would never expect after reading this that it’s Samantha Lane’s debut novel! I can’t wait to see what she creates next!

[Kat · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an absolutely adorable meet cute story!

I was hooked right from the get-go with the matchmaking grandpa and the instant connection. This is definitely a great book for when you are needing that fate type of romance with alot of emotional intelligence and heart. The difference between the two characters and how they communicate really made the story for me, especially Louie and how much of a golden retriever he is.

I was lucky enough to receive an arc of this amazing novel and am leaving a review of my own thoughts and feelings.

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

Talk about an instant love connection. With one look at her from the ice, he felt the sparks rolling off her, and she felt the connection too, even though she fought it. This was such a good book, and the ending pulled every single heartstring I have. Seeing how the hockey world and he showed up for her was amazing, and I cannot wait to see what comes next in this series.

[Rondi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC, and this is the review.

Firecracker — Samantha Lane

Reese and Louie. And can I just say… I adore the name Louie? I just do. Anyway, proceeding with the review.

The warm-ups? Chef’s kiss. Lust-at-first-sight—apparently my new microtrope obsession. The cute kind of internet stalking? I’m absolutely here for it.

The meet-cute with Grandpa had me in a chokehold. Adorable doesn’t even begin to cover it.
Make-out sessions? Yes.
Grandpa again? STILL YES.
Text threads with nicknames born out of cute chaos? A thousand times yes.

Ari, our firecracker’s mysterious roommate… tell me she’s book 2. I need it.

Body confidence moments hit home for me, because same. Mean girls? They can fuck right off.
Dirty FaceTimes? Don’t mind if I do.
Shelby? Also fuck right off.
Pops? Precious.
The team’s support? Loved every piece of it.

Honestly, these are just my in-the-moment reactions while reading, because that’s how I roll. Samantha, you’re a gem. I adored this book, and I’m already waiting for the next one.

Order this adorable-but-spicy hockey romance immediately.

[Janine Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so lucky to receive this book as an ARC ❤️Firecracker is the DEBUT first novel by Samantha Lane & is Book 1 in the Western Minnesota Hockey Series ❤️
Did I say DEBUT NOVEL!?! Yes I did, & Samantha created her own version of a hat trick!!!
What a book to start, what I think will be a beautiful series full of golden retriever MMC’s 🥰
Louie fell head over hockey stick over Reese & I loved every minute of this book. Louie & Reese communicated beautifully in their relationship & a book with no 3rd act breakup is always a winner & a go to for me as a reader. I am also a huge fan of the instalove trope 🥰
This book was amazing & can’t wait for the next book……hopefully Ari & Ryan 🫶🏼

🏒 Hockey Romance
❤️ Insta-love
🐶 Golden Retriever MMC
🌼 Wallflower FMC
🃏A “bet” is placed
⛓️‍💥 Forced Proximity
💙 Found Family
❤️‍🩹No third-act break

[Marti · Rating 5 out of 5]

First and Foremost congrats Sam on your debut! I’m so thankful you allowed me to read Louie and Reese’s story early!

I absolutely devoured this book! Read it in a single day, did not want to put it down!
Sweet Louie, my down bad boy! You are all things good in the world and I love you!
My sweet and strong Reese you deserve all the love Louie has for you!
These two were so perfect for each other! They had the best friendship, banter and the chemistry was fire!!! Louie was so romantic and wanted to give Reese everything! I was legit jealous of their first date! Reese was hilarious and me spitting out my drink!
Sweet Pops and his meddling tendencies! I see you old man! Their friend group is going to be one of my favorites. Shout out to Ryan though! You’re a real one, my dude! I can’t wait to see what’s next for this group!

[Caitlin C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Samantha was not JOKING when she said Louie was gonna be a golden retriever!!!! The man has the ultimate golden retriever energy.

This book was such a refreshingly fun and spicy read! I loved Reese and Louie’s story from their meet cute til the last page and I cannot wait to see more of them in the rest of the series. Both characters were so well done and had their own clear identities and I loved that they stayed true to what I would have expected from them throughout.

I also thought the stories for the entire cast of characters were introduced just enough where I felt like I could connect to them but definitely want more. I absolutely adored Pops and his MASTERMIND skills.

Overall, an amazing debut and a great read! Thank you Samantha Lane for the eARC - I am leaving my honest review after reading.

[Jen Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a debut novel for Samantha and I am so very hooked into this world she created. I fell in love with the characters she created and the world she built. I was interested to see where she took us as the main characters felt an instant connection and pull to each other. What I didn’t expect was the deep story and the amazing found family relationships. I laughed out loud at numerous scenes. I cried at numerous scenes too. The spicy scenes were SPICY and I’m totally here for it. I cannot wait to see where else Samantha takes us while she continues to expand this universe and these people.

[SmuttyEverAfter · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review:

Louie Watkins is the greenest of all green flags! 🥰 This was such a cute and sweet story. Loved the immediate connection between Reese and Louie. I also loved that Reese did not immediately jump into anything with Louie which allowed for a really lovely development of their relationship. How kismet was it that Louie was paired with Reese’s grandpa?! I think that was one of my fave things about the story. I’d like to think that Reese’s grandpa felt ok about his time to go because he knew Reese would be ok with Louie. 🥹 This was a great debut for Sam and I’m looking forward to what’s coming next for this series!

[Kelsey Mooney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I really loved this book. I definitely wasn't expecting an ugly cry for all the sweetest reasons but here we are. This Hockey Romance was where hockey was more a secondary part of the plot than a big focus, which is ok with this story. I will say the MCs had some not as traditional names, the MMCs does kind of throw me off a bit because Louie? Haha not one you imagine screaming in a moment of passion. But the found family and over all acceptance of all of the characters and the set up for the next couple of books is perfect. I can't wait to read more.

I received this book as an ARC

[Kayla Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Samantha did a freaking amazing job with this book, once I started it I could not put it down! It’s definitely a read you don’t want to miss! I definitely could relate to FMC when it came to her pops as I was close to my grandpa the same way! Truly exceptional book!

Louie will definitely give you the golden retriever vibes but don’t let that fool you as that boy has a filthy mouth on him in all the good ways 🥵🥵 Reese is this girl who just wants to do good in school for her pops. It was love at first for these two, the relationship and communication between them was perfect! But definitely grab some tissues you will definitely need it!!

Thank you Sam for giving me an early copy of your debut book! I really appreciate it!!

[Hope Nagele · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, thank you so much for this ARC!

When I tell you this book has so much heart in it, it’s seriously an understatement. The found family and love in this book is beyond perfect!

The MMC, Louie, was the sweetest most dedicated MC. He really saw any need and swore himself to making sure everyone was happy. Serious cinnamon roll MC.

The FMC, Reese, was such a relatable character and such a tough and independent person and it was beautiful to see her story evolve and her become more soft and embracing herself.

Highly recommend this book, it’ll be a top book of the year for me. It just has the element of cozy and touch of spice that makes me want to jump into the world the author created.

[Kyla Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love at first sight, this book was beautiful. Hockey and college romance and we can't forget Reese and Louie. The two of them are absolutely perfect for each other. No third act break up which was nice and the found family is heartwarming. I couldn't get enough of Reese and Louie and the way they love each other. I was hooked and didn't want this to end. I cannot wait to see what Samantha Lane has next.

[Sarah Lowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Wow!! What an absolute amazing read.

This captivating insta-love hockey romance had me completely enthralled from the very beginning, standing out from other sports romances by focusing on the intricate character interactions, emotions, and personal growth.

I will admit, I was emotionally invested when it came to Pop’s and Nan.🫣 The relationship between the three was beyond absolutely beautiful.

I wholeheartedly recommend reading and eagerly look forward to more🤞

[Madeline Rugg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much and I can’t wait for book 2! I especially enjoyed that this hockey romance did not have the stereotypical 3rd act break up with a miscommunication trope, instead there was real people dealing with real issues. All of the characters felt so real I could see each and every one of their personalities so well. Also I’m truly a sucker for found family and this book certainly delivered.

[Melanie Sharpe · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review - I’m so impressed this is the authors first novel. It was a super cute book and lots of spice too. It was a great example of a healthy relationship. I did find the story lacked a true problem that had to be resolved, but I still really enjoyed it. I’m excited it’s a series and will definitely read the next ones!

[The Book Ssirren · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was super sweet with just the right amount of spice. These two were meant to be for sure. I loved how he fell for so quickly and she made him work for her. These two were just so compatible and meant to be a part each others lives. The connection, their time together, it was all just so sweet.

[Mrs. Henry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED IT!!

I will start off with saying- I know the author personally but that doesn’t stop me from writing truthfully. I believe that this book was awesome and I loved the characters. I loved their banter. I loved that love languages were mentioned. I loved that omegaverse was mentioned. I need more. I can’t wait for the next book. I highly recommend you read this book!!

[Cori Hamm · Rating 5 out of 5]

congratulations on your debut baby, Sam!! 🤍🤍

Louie and Reese were so stinking sweet! Louie was so down bad and loved our girl Reese in every way she deserved! Reese had been through so much and had held back so much love in fear of losing someone else. I absolutely loved the way Louie showed her love and patience.

Pops has my whole heart!! Love him and his meddling ways so much! 🥰🥰

I can’t say enough about this found family!! The way they rally around their circle was so perfect. I’m so excited to see more from the UWM family 🩶🩶

[Angela Durand · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book completely stole my heart. Reese and Louie’s connection is instant and sweet, and Louie is the ultimate golden retriever hockey boy who falls hard and fast. I loved Reese’s relationship with her grandfather, Pops, and how Louie fits so naturally into her world. The found family moments were just as good as the romance, and yes, the spice is there too. It’s heartwarming, emotional, and the kind of story that makes you smile while reading. Definitely check the trigger warnings, but if you love hockey romance with heart, this one is a must.

⚠️ ‼️ ❤️ 😔 ❤️‍🩹

[Amber L Evans · Rating 4 out of 5]

a hot and spicy hockey romance with a lot of heart. The MMC was such a thoughtful and considerate character.

[Nenesbooks13 · Rating 5 out of 5]

First I want to say Thank You to Samantha and Naughty Nook Pr for this ARC!

What a read! I loved everything about this book! Louie was everything and he’s definitely a cinnamon roll MC, Reese is independent and also a strong FMC. Louie saw Reese at one of he’s hockey games and he just knew she was the one for him, their relationship was so beautiful. I couldn’t get enough of this book. This is definitely a must read.

A BIG congratulations to Samantha Lane on her debut Novel!!!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Super excited for Doll to be released, I need Evie's story. But I'm also hoping for a Ryan and Ari story as well. Ryan needs to go destroy her hometown

[Alyssa Jennings · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this one in a day! I was hooked

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book one in the Western Minnesota Hockey series and as a debut novel it was such a great start.

Reese is a college student who has been completely focused on school and keeping her life on track. When she ends up at a hockey game with her best friend she never expects one quick glance across the rink to change anything, but that is exactly where her connection to Louie begins.

Louie is a college hockey player with big dreams after graduation. One look into the crowd and he spots Reese watching the game and feels an instant pull toward her. He does not know her name or anything about her, but he is determined to find her and see if the spark he felt was real.

I really enjoyed this story. From the moment they lock eyes you can feel how strong their connection is. The way fate keeps pushing them back together made their relationship feel fun and natural. Their chemistry was adorable and the banter made me smile the entire time. I loved the supportive people around them too, especially Pops who absolutely stole scenes every time he showed up. This story felt warm, sweet, and spicy in all the right ways and I could not stop reading.

If you love hockey romances, instant sparks, supportive friend groups, and debut novels that already feel like comfort reads, then this book needs to be on your list. I cannot wait for the next book in the series.

[Melanie Gardhouse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Louie + Reese what a beautiful love story! There was so many rollercoaster moments with my emotions but that last hill will be my downfall. I was a sobbing mess and I am beyond happy it ended how it did

Thank you so much Samantha Lane for this opportunity to read Firecracker.

[Jordyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an amazing book that gives all the feels! Way to go Sam, congrats on making such a heartfelt debut novel!!!

This book is such a fun read and it is so worth the read. I was hooked from the first page and I am so happy with how the book went.

Samantha has done such an amazing job creating these characters and their story.
🌶️🌶️

[Kinal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Samantha Lane’s Firecracker is a fun and heartwarming sports romance filled with instant attraction and a love story that slowly deepens into something truly meaningful. Following Louie and Reese, this book delivers a sweet, emotional, and lightly spicy romance that was a joy to read.

The story begins when Louie first spots Reese at a college party and is immediately drawn to her. Reese, however, is determined to avoid distractions, her focus is on her education and making her grandpa, Pops, proud. After losing her parents in an accident, Pops has been her constant support and guiding force, and she dreams of succeeding at the university where he is now an alumnus.

Louie is a star hockey player who volunteers every year in a mentorship program alongside his mentor, who just so happens to be Pops. Fate pairs Louie and Reese together, and from that moment, the connection between them is undeniable. While the spark is clearly there, Reese initially refuses to acknowledge it, choosing instead to stay focused on her goals.

As time passes, Louie’s kindness, patience, and steady presence begin to break down her walls. They start spending more time together, and Reese slowly finds herself falling for him. Tragically, she loses Pops before she has the chance to show him the woman she’s becoming or fully decide on her future. During this heartbreaking time, Louie stands by her side, supporting her every step of the way, and his love for her becomes even more evident.

Firecracker is a sweet, fun, and emotionally touching sports romance with just the right amount of spice. I truly enjoyed reading it. Thank you to Samantha Lane for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Jasmine Bradley · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a simple cute and sweet read! It had a nice little meet cute with Louie (mmc) and Reese (fmc) locking eyes at Louies hockey game then finally officially meeting when Louie is introduced as Reese's grandfather's buddy through a team program (absolutely loved pop's our little matchmaker). The pace was nice not to slow or fast strong relationships and a found family in the hockey team (Ryan and Miles for the win!) As well as Reese's BFF/ roommate Ari. The few chapters before the ending had me crying but the ending chapters wrapped it up nicely. Overall this was a good read if nothing but a tiny bit boring for my taste (I usually read dark romance, thrillers, mystery, lots of action) but a good palate cleanser that I would definitely recommend reading!