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New York Legends #2
Big Stick Energy: A New York Legends Hockey Romance
A hockey team captain and a bubbly staffer mix business with pleasure when they start fake dating through the wedding season in this hot sports romance perfect for fans of Mariana Zapata and Elle Kennedy. Darcy Kendrick is used to putting out fires. As an overworked admin to a hockey team, she’s seen it all. But nothing prepares her for accidentally DMing her very private, very NSFW fantasy to the subject of this team captain Eric Tremaine. Nobody actually dies of embarrassment. Right? But when a wedding invite puts them on a collision course with her chaotic family and his emotionally fraught past, Eric suggests a they fake-date their way through the “Wedding Experience.” It’s mutually beneficial. Totally strategic. And definitely not real. Except between mini tacos, slow dances and lingering glances, Eric starts to wonder if the sharp-tongued assistant with a bottomless to-do list might be the one person who truly sees him. And for Darcy? The fire in her heart might be the only one she can’t put out. It’s supposed to be fake. It’s supposed to be temporary. So why is it so hard to walk away?
542 pages, Paperback
First published June 30, 2026
About the author
Sarina Bowen
107 books20.2k followers
Sarina Bowen is the 24-time USA Today bestselling and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of contemporary fiction, including: The Five Year Lie, the True North series, and the Brooklyn Hockey series. She's the co-author of Him/Us and the WAGs series with Elle Kennedy. And more!
You can find a complete reading order list of Sarina's books on her website. Or see what's coming next from Sarina, and sign up for her newsletter so you don't miss a new book or a deal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 836 reviews
July 21, 2026
4⭐️s
What can I say? I’ve been in a sports romance kind of mood lately, and this time I’m back to hockey. Since finishing and really enjoying my first Sarina Bowen read, Thrown for a Loop, I’ve been eagerly awaiting Darcy and Eric’s story, and I’m happy to say it didn’t disappoint. I had so much fun with this one.
Darcy, the New York Legends’ team administrator, has had a secret crush on team captain Eric for ages. She’s absolutely mortified when she accidentally slides into his Instagram DMs with a very private fantasy about him, thinking she’s messaging her best friend instead. As fate would have it, they’ve both been invited to the same wedding, where their equally messy families will be in attendance. To make things easier, they agree to go together, and what starts as a simple arrangement quickly turns into an unexpected fake dating scenario.
I really liked both MCs and the complicated family dynamics they each brought to the story. What I loved most, though, was that the author didn’t rely on miscommunication or, even worse, a complete lack of communication to keep the story moving. That’s one of my biggest romance pet peeves, so this earned a lot of points from me.
Even though it is the second book in the series, it can completely be read as a standalone. Fingers crossed we get DeLuca’s story next.
Now available! My thanks to Forever via NetGalley for my digital ARC.
What can I say? I’ve been in a sports romance kind of mood lately, and this time I’m back to hockey. Since finishing and really enjoying my first Sarina Bowen read, Thrown for a Loop, I’ve been eagerly awaiting Darcy and Eric’s story, and I’m happy to say it didn’t disappoint. I had so much fun with this one.
Darcy, the New York Legends’ team administrator, has had a secret crush on team captain Eric for ages. She’s absolutely mortified when she accidentally slides into his Instagram DMs with a very private fantasy about him, thinking she’s messaging her best friend instead. As fate would have it, they’ve both been invited to the same wedding, where their equally messy families will be in attendance. To make things easier, they agree to go together, and what starts as a simple arrangement quickly turns into an unexpected fake dating scenario.
I really liked both MCs and the complicated family dynamics they each brought to the story. What I loved most, though, was that the author didn’t rely on miscommunication or, even worse, a complete lack of communication to keep the story moving. That’s one of my biggest romance pet peeves, so this earned a lot of points from me.
Even though it is the second book in the series, it can completely be read as a standalone. Fingers crossed we get DeLuca’s story next.
Now available! My thanks to Forever via NetGalley for my digital ARC.
August 8, 2026
4 stars
I had so much fun with this slow-burn romance! Sarina Bowen writes hockey books so well. Eric and Darcy were both great, and I loved the fun-loving feeling of the first half, and that the second half felt more developed and genuine.
I had so much fun with this slow-burn romance! Sarina Bowen writes hockey books so well. Eric and Darcy were both great, and I loved the fun-loving feeling of the first half, and that the second half felt more developed and genuine.
Audio book source: Libby
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Will Damron & CJ Bloom
Narration Rating: 4.5 stars
Genre: Romance
Length: 9h 46m
arcs-to-read
November 30, 2025AHHH WE GOT A COVER!!! 😱😍😍
July 4, 2026
Big Stick Energy by Sarina Bowen
New York Legends series #2. Contemporary romance. Hockey. Fake relationship troupe. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Working as an administrator for the New York hockey team keeps Darcy busy from sun up to way past sun down. On one of those late nights when she texts a little fantasy comment to the captain of the hockey team instead of a friend, she owns up to it. She’d love to crawl into a hole and hide from embarrassment, but she’s busy and has to move on. When Eric Tremaine shows he’s interested, Darcy is on board.
When a destination wedding comes up they both have to attend, it makes sense to pretend to be a couple. Until it seems a little too real?
Banter with sexy thrills plus a woman who knows how to manage her day and nights - awesome. Sassy to the top boss -perfect.
The tiny food love was spot-on and so adorable. And then he’s seeking it out for her! Swoon.
Loved this. A great romcom.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
New York Legends series #2. Contemporary romance. Hockey. Fake relationship troupe. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Working as an administrator for the New York hockey team keeps Darcy busy from sun up to way past sun down. On one of those late nights when she texts a little fantasy comment to the captain of the hockey team instead of a friend, she owns up to it. She’d love to crawl into a hole and hide from embarrassment, but she’s busy and has to move on. When Eric Tremaine shows he’s interested, Darcy is on board.
When a destination wedding comes up they both have to attend, it makes sense to pretend to be a couple. Until it seems a little too real?
Banter with sexy thrills plus a woman who knows how to manage her day and nights - awesome. Sassy to the top boss -perfect.
The tiny food love was spot-on and so adorable. And then he’s seeking it out for her! Swoon.
Loved this. A great romcom.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
April 27, 2026
4⭐️
I have always enjoyed Sarina Bowen's hockey stories and this was no exception! Book two in the New York Legends series has Darcy and Eric getting their happily ever after, which was hinted at in book one. Our story starts off at the end of hockey season when Darcy accidentally sends Eric a naughty text about him, meant for her friend Zoe. The two begin talking and quickly discover that they're headed to the same wedding that summer- they decide to go as each others dates as buffers for their respective families.
This has a slight fake-dating trope, but it's also sort of not fake? They're dates for the wedding and then say that they're together but are very vague on timelines and how serious they are.
The chemistry between Darcy and Eric was fine- they had some really good conversations about their childhoods and goals in life, but I still felt like they could have connected on a deeper level. They got along and were good together but I never really felt like their feelings for each other were very strong. I think it would have helped if we actually got to see them together as a couple more- the book spends so long with Darcy pushing Eric away because she can't believe he would 'settle' for someone like her. I'm a sucker for the quiet, domestic moments and we never really got any.
The whole wedding week was full of their terrible and toxic family members and it was never really resolved? Like all this buildup and we got off handed remarks about the resolutions and lack thereof.
Also, the nickname here was so cringey I died a little every time Darcy said it. She- with full seriousness and MULTIPLE times, called Eric "E-Train". God-awful.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishing team for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I have always enjoyed Sarina Bowen's hockey stories and this was no exception! Book two in the New York Legends series has Darcy and Eric getting their happily ever after, which was hinted at in book one. Our story starts off at the end of hockey season when Darcy accidentally sends Eric a naughty text about him, meant for her friend Zoe. The two begin talking and quickly discover that they're headed to the same wedding that summer- they decide to go as each others dates as buffers for their respective families.
This has a slight fake-dating trope, but it's also sort of not fake? They're dates for the wedding and then say that they're together but are very vague on timelines and how serious they are.
The chemistry between Darcy and Eric was fine- they had some really good conversations about their childhoods and goals in life, but I still felt like they could have connected on a deeper level. They got along and were good together but I never really felt like their feelings for each other were very strong. I think it would have helped if we actually got to see them together as a couple more- the book spends so long with Darcy pushing Eric away because she can't believe he would 'settle' for someone like her. I'm a sucker for the quiet, domestic moments and we never really got any.
The whole wedding week was full of their terrible and toxic family members and it was never really resolved? Like all this buildup and we got off handed remarks about the resolutions and lack thereof.
Also, the nickname here was so cringey I died a little every time Darcy said it. She- with full seriousness and MULTIPLE times, called Eric "E-Train". God-awful.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishing team for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Darcy + Eric
We all remember team captain Eric and GM assistant Darcy.
Darcy has had a bit of a crush on Eric for years.
But Eric thinks that she kinda hates him - him! He, who is so nice and kind to everyone.
When a super sexy text accidentally lands in his inbox instead of Zoe's - it's on! Eric can't stop thinking about Darcy. About her thinking of him that way.
When they're both - separately - invited to a wedding near their home town ...they decide to go together.
LET THE FUN TIMES BEGIN...
══════════════════
That was so adorable!
Eric is this super hot golden retriever hockey captain - we can't fault Darcy for having a thing for him. Same, girl!
The season's over and now they have time to get to know each other as fake dating wedding guests. But the more time they spend together, the more real it gets.
But we also have lots of complicated family and work problems. So it won't be easy for our darlings.
I really enjoyed reading this. We don't get too much over the top drama and silly immature stuff.
This was a sweet and sparky and funny and just adorable hockey romance without too much hockey in it - loved that!
I also loved all the adorable cameos. Can't wait to read DeLuca's book next!
BIG STICK ENERGY was such a cute romance! Sparky, Funny, Sexy, Adorable...
I loved reading it! Run to your nearest bookdealer for your own Eric!
If you can't click the buy-links
from your phone - click ► HERE!
💜
💜
January 25, 2026
5 stars. I really enjoyed book 1 of the series, so when the widget all of a sudden popped up in my email, I dropped all the other books I planned to read, and hopped right into this one. And let me tell you, Sarina Bowen KNOWS how to write a hockey romance. There's less ice time in this one, but still a lot of team dynamics/ shenanigans. But the big star of the book is the burgeoning relationship between Darcy (team owner's admin) and Eric (team captain). They both realize that they have to attend the same wedding (and the way this comes about is pretty hysterical), and because family affairs can be a lot, they decide to deflect the drama by pretending to be a couple. AKA... fake dating. And of course, this leads to an only one bed moment. Darcy and Eric are honestly perfect for one another. They both have VERY complicated family relationships, and they both actually have similar jobs. Darcy is essentially on call to her very needy boss, and as captain, Eric makes himself available to his teammates' every whims. Importantly, both Darcy and Eric show up for one another, in really big ways. And interestingly, they're both kind of golden retriever-esque (Eric more so), but also kinda of dirty. Don't let the illustrated cover fool you, there are definitely some open door scenes. I really enjoyed book 1, but dare I say, I enjoyed book 2 even more. Which is shocking to me, since book 1 had some suspenseful moments (I'm a sucker for romantic suspense), which was not the case in book 2.
I can 100% say that dropping all my other books to read this one was the right choice! Thanks so much to Bowen, Forever, and Netgalley for the advanced ebook in exchange for my honest review.
I can 100% say that dropping all my other books to read this one was the right choice! Thanks so much to Bowen, Forever, and Netgalley for the advanced ebook in exchange for my honest review.
July 19, 2026
I have some major ICKs-
↪She develops a crush on him when she saw him f*ucking some other women....Like hello, women? Immediate NO
↪They keep talking like teenage kids in some very serious and heavy topics. For example-
when MMC tells her about his brothers dead about his brother's finance and how she suffered after his dead then the FMC's reply was like - “Kind of puts things in perspective. I have a grumpy boss and too much homework, but at least I didn’t lose my fiancé at nineteen.”
“My father just disclosed to me that he’s having a health problem. It’s his heart. And he needs me to go see a cardiologist just in case it’s genetic.” Eric lets out a low whistle. “Hell, I’m sorry.” Yes, that's it! And then they change topic. After sometime he just emails her informing about a doctor?
Please show affection!
↪ And i am pretty sure that their legs are numb by walking so much😭Upset- "Walk with me?" Angry- "Walk with me?" Horny- "Walk with me?".
↪ He says "Winner Winner Chicken Dinner" BYEEEEEEEEEEE
↪She develops a crush on him when she saw him f*ucking some other women....Like hello, women? Immediate NO
↪They keep talking like teenage kids in some very serious and heavy topics. For example-
when MMC tells her about his brothers dead about his brother's finance and how she suffered after his dead then the FMC's reply was like - “Kind of puts things in perspective. I have a grumpy boss and too much homework, but at least I didn’t lose my fiancé at nineteen.”
“My father just disclosed to me that he’s having a health problem. It’s his heart. And he needs me to go see a cardiologist just in case it’s genetic.” Eric lets out a low whistle. “Hell, I’m sorry.” Yes, that's it! And then they change topic. After sometime he just emails her informing about a doctor?
Please show affection!
↪ And i am pretty sure that their legs are numb by walking so much😭Upset- "Walk with me?" Angry- "Walk with me?" Horny- "Walk with me?".
↪ He says "Winner Winner Chicken Dinner" BYEEEEEEEEEEE
July 28, 2026
3.5 Interesting but a little contrived ⭐️⭐️⭐️
There really wasn’t a lot of big stick energy, so the title is an odd choice, but there is sweetness and kindness.❤️
There was a lot to like about this book, but it had one major flaw: the romance completely stalled in the middle. The relationship barely progressed until the very end.
Darcy is an administrator for a hockey team, and Eric is the team captain. They’ve known each other for years, yet he’d never really noticed her, which felt a little hard to believe. 😬
Everything changes when Darcy accidentally slides into his DMs, thinking she’s messaging a friend. Instead, she sends Eric a very vivid description of exactly what she’d like him to do to her.
Needless to say, Eric starts paying attention.
Both Eric and Darcy come from deeply broken backgrounds, and that immediately pulled me in. Their emotional baggage felt authentic, unique, and genuinely moving. This was easily the strongest part of the book. ❤️
They start connecting at an engagement party and decide to have a fling, with a healthy dose of trauma bonding mixed in. I was completely on board.
Unfortunately, once the fling begins, the romance loses all momentum. The emotional connection barely develops, while the spice goes all in from then on. Instead of feeling natural, it felt like it was trying too hard and didn’t quite fit who these characters were.
More emotional development and fewer spicy scenes would have made for a much stronger romance. For me at least.
It was refreshing to read about two genuinely kind, emotionally mature characters. Eric is pure golden retriever energy, and I loved him.
The conflict, however, didn’t work for me.
These two communicated well and behaved like adults, yet they remained stubbornly committed to keeping things “just a fling” for far too long. Darcy repeatedly rejected Eric because they worked together and because she believed he belonged with a supermodel. I understand why she’d have those insecurities, but they couldn’t carry the entire central conflict. Eventually, it started to feel repetitive.
Should you read it? Yes. It’s a sweet, summery romance with some genuinely heartfelt moments.
Chance of divorce? The ending wrapped up so abruptly that I honestly have no idea.
There really wasn’t a lot of big stick energy, so the title is an odd choice, but there is sweetness and kindness.❤️
There was a lot to like about this book, but it had one major flaw: the romance completely stalled in the middle. The relationship barely progressed until the very end.
Darcy is an administrator for a hockey team, and Eric is the team captain. They’ve known each other for years, yet he’d never really noticed her, which felt a little hard to believe. 😬
Everything changes when Darcy accidentally slides into his DMs, thinking she’s messaging a friend. Instead, she sends Eric a very vivid description of exactly what she’d like him to do to her.
Needless to say, Eric starts paying attention.
Both Eric and Darcy come from deeply broken backgrounds, and that immediately pulled me in. Their emotional baggage felt authentic, unique, and genuinely moving. This was easily the strongest part of the book. ❤️
They start connecting at an engagement party and decide to have a fling, with a healthy dose of trauma bonding mixed in. I was completely on board.
Unfortunately, once the fling begins, the romance loses all momentum. The emotional connection barely develops, while the spice goes all in from then on. Instead of feeling natural, it felt like it was trying too hard and didn’t quite fit who these characters were.
More emotional development and fewer spicy scenes would have made for a much stronger romance. For me at least.
It was refreshing to read about two genuinely kind, emotionally mature characters. Eric is pure golden retriever energy, and I loved him.
The conflict, however, didn’t work for me.
These two communicated well and behaved like adults, yet they remained stubbornly committed to keeping things “just a fling” for far too long. Darcy repeatedly rejected Eric because they worked together and because she believed he belonged with a supermodel. I understand why she’d have those insecurities, but they couldn’t carry the entire central conflict. Eventually, it started to feel repetitive.
Should you read it? Yes. It’s a sweet, summery romance with some genuinely heartfelt moments.
Chance of divorce? The ending wrapped up so abruptly that I honestly have no idea.
June 21, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sarina Bowen has done it again because a hockey romance with fake dating is guaranteed to have me hooked every single time, especially when it’s the MMC who falls first.
There was so much to love about this story. I adored watching these two navigate their messy, complicated family situations while trying to convince themselves that their fake relationship was only temporary. The chemistry between them was undeniable, and every stolen glance and vulnerable moment had me rooting for them even harder.
I especially loved seeing them slowly let their walls down and finally say, “Screw it,” and give in to what was happening between them. Their journey felt authentic, emotional, and incredibly satisfying.
This author can write one heck of a hockey romance, and after finishing this one, I’m already counting down the days until the next book.
Sarina Bowen has done it again because a hockey romance with fake dating is guaranteed to have me hooked every single time, especially when it’s the MMC who falls first.
There was so much to love about this story. I adored watching these two navigate their messy, complicated family situations while trying to convince themselves that their fake relationship was only temporary. The chemistry between them was undeniable, and every stolen glance and vulnerable moment had me rooting for them even harder.
I especially loved seeing them slowly let their walls down and finally say, “Screw it,” and give in to what was happening between them. Their journey felt authentic, emotional, and incredibly satisfying.
This author can write one heck of a hockey romance, and after finishing this one, I’m already counting down the days until the next book.
July 15, 2026
Story 3.75 stars rounded up. Narration 4 stars
This is the latest book in the author’s New York Legends hockey books. Initially I wasn’t a big fan of either narrator but pretty much got over it by half way through. They just seemed older than the characters were, to me anyway. So not a good first impression, but since Bowen is a favorite romance author for me there was no chance of me stopping the listen.
Darcy works as the admin for the hockey team. She’s very single, but has a crush on the captain of the team, Eric. After a fun part with a stray text going to the wrong person things change a bit. Turns out Eric is attending the wedding of a family friend who is marrying Darcy’s half brother. There’s also other events. The two decide to fake date their way through the two weekends in question. There’s so much family drama on both sides some of it heartbreaking-on both sides. Plenty of angst to go around.
I liked the two main characters a lot actually. Both of their families had some major problems especially Darcy. I didn’t like her mother, father or half sister. Eric’s mother needed to be in therapy. Very sad story for her.
This wasn’t my favorite by the author, but was still good. I’ve read all but 3 of her huge body of work and I’ve loved most of them. She does know her hockey!
Recommended to adult contemporary romance readers.
This is the latest book in the author’s New York Legends hockey books. Initially I wasn’t a big fan of either narrator but pretty much got over it by half way through. They just seemed older than the characters were, to me anyway. So not a good first impression, but since Bowen is a favorite romance author for me there was no chance of me stopping the listen.
Darcy works as the admin for the hockey team. She’s very single, but has a crush on the captain of the team, Eric. After a fun part with a stray text going to the wrong person things change a bit. Turns out Eric is attending the wedding of a family friend who is marrying Darcy’s half brother. There’s also other events. The two decide to fake date their way through the two weekends in question. There’s so much family drama on both sides some of it heartbreaking-on both sides. Plenty of angst to go around.
I liked the two main characters a lot actually. Both of their families had some major problems especially Darcy. I didn’t like her mother, father or half sister. Eric’s mother needed to be in therapy. Very sad story for her.
This wasn’t my favorite by the author, but was still good. I’ve read all but 3 of her huge body of work and I’ve loved most of them. She does know her hockey!
Recommended to adult contemporary romance readers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A huge thank you to Forever for the eARC of this book via Netgalley!
I absolutely loved Thrown for a Loop, so I was THRILLED to get the sequel, Big Stick Energy!
Like so many of us romance readers, I am fully in my hockey romance era, and this one delivered!
We met both Darcy and Eric in the first book, so it was fun seeing their story play out and we even see Chase and Eva in this book as well. One a late night of travel, Darcy accidentally sends a salacious DM that was originally meant for Eva to Eric (oooopsies!), and is *mortified* when she sees that he's read the message. This finally kickstarts Eric into realizing that his crush may have more to it...especially since they have to attend the same wedding. What starts off as fake-dating for the wedding weekend, turns into something that has potential to be more serious than Darcy thinks she can handle.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one and I can't wait for DeLuca's story next year!
*I also received an uncorrected proof copy of this book, so double thank- yous to Forever <3
I absolutely loved Thrown for a Loop, so I was THRILLED to get the sequel, Big Stick Energy!
Like so many of us romance readers, I am fully in my hockey romance era, and this one delivered!
We met both Darcy and Eric in the first book, so it was fun seeing their story play out and we even see Chase and Eva in this book as well. One a late night of travel, Darcy accidentally sends a salacious DM that was originally meant for Eva to Eric (oooopsies!), and is *mortified* when she sees that he's read the message. This finally kickstarts Eric into realizing that his crush may have more to it...especially since they have to attend the same wedding. What starts off as fake-dating for the wedding weekend, turns into something that has potential to be more serious than Darcy thinks she can handle.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one and I can't wait for DeLuca's story next year!
*I also received an uncorrected proof copy of this book, so double thank- yous to Forever <3
March 8, 2026
The mutual crushes here were crushing! It's the classic case of she falls first, but he falls harder, and I was absolutely there for all of Eric's pining and preoccupation with Darcy. Her accidental dirty text that sets everything in motion also sets the tone for a super fun and flirty time—until this book hits you hard with all the heartfelt family drama.
Big Stick Energy was such a great blend of emotional but also cheeky—which also describes Darcy and Eric's relationship perfectly. The added risk and tension of their fake dating only made their heart-to-heart, honest talks feel more real. And before they ever have their first kiss, I was already giddy over their interactions and rooting for both of them so hard. Both of their family members are despicable, flawed, but also incredibly human. And watching the two of them navigate these tricky personal situations while confiding in, leaning on, and supporting each other made me believe in their connection wholeheartedly.
They both kind of fall into the fake dating—and it's also another classic case of both of them using it to cover up what they really want: to date, for real. When all of it starts to crumble and their weekend away ends, I loved seeing Eric put in the work to be with Darcy. He is a Good Man, Savannah! I wrote in one of my updates that even though I love my MMCs a little mean and kind of shitty at first that does not mean I don't appreciate a competent, thoughtful, and communicative man (I am a woman of duality!!) and that is where Eric squarely falls. He's the captain; he's the guy who always has it together. Until he doesn't. And when he doesn't, Darcy is the one he reaches for.
And Darcy—brilliant, independent, hard-working, and a girl after my own heart because she's a huge fan of mini foods. She was so fun, but she was also so brave. And seeing her constantly doing her best to be there for Eric in his moments of vulnerability made me adore her more. I wish she would have communicated with him a bit more towards the end of the book, especially post-amazing wedding weekend, but I can always, always respect and relate to a girl with trust issues, and seeing them work past that together was so sweet and satisfying.
I will be adding this one to my list of fake dating recommendations (never can have enough of those!), because it has everything that the perfect fake dating book requires: heaps of tension, simmering feelings, and just a dash of hilarity and drama.
﹙ three-point-five stars ﹚
— thank you to forever for the e-arc via netgalley to review!
Big Stick Energy was such a great blend of emotional but also cheeky—which also describes Darcy and Eric's relationship perfectly. The added risk and tension of their fake dating only made their heart-to-heart, honest talks feel more real. And before they ever have their first kiss, I was already giddy over their interactions and rooting for both of them so hard. Both of their family members are despicable, flawed, but also incredibly human. And watching the two of them navigate these tricky personal situations while confiding in, leaning on, and supporting each other made me believe in their connection wholeheartedly.
They both kind of fall into the fake dating—and it's also another classic case of both of them using it to cover up what they really want: to date, for real. When all of it starts to crumble and their weekend away ends, I loved seeing Eric put in the work to be with Darcy. He is a Good Man, Savannah! I wrote in one of my updates that even though I love my MMCs a little mean and kind of shitty at first that does not mean I don't appreciate a competent, thoughtful, and communicative man (I am a woman of duality!!) and that is where Eric squarely falls. He's the captain; he's the guy who always has it together. Until he doesn't. And when he doesn't, Darcy is the one he reaches for.
And Darcy—brilliant, independent, hard-working, and a girl after my own heart because she's a huge fan of mini foods. She was so fun, but she was also so brave. And seeing her constantly doing her best to be there for Eric in his moments of vulnerability made me adore her more. I wish she would have communicated with him a bit more towards the end of the book, especially post-amazing wedding weekend, but I can always, always respect and relate to a girl with trust issues, and seeing them work past that together was so sweet and satisfying.
I will be adding this one to my list of fake dating recommendations (never can have enough of those!), because it has everything that the perfect fake dating book requires: heaps of tension, simmering feelings, and just a dash of hilarity and drama.
﹙ three-point-five stars ﹚
— thank you to forever for the e-arc via netgalley to review!
September 10, 2026
4.25 Stars ⭐️
I had a blast going from one Sarina Bowen book to another. I mentioned in the first review that it had been a while since I had been back in a Sarina Bowen world and I had forgotten how much I loved it. Well, that has definitely not changed.
In this book, we are still in the hockey world, but this time we are in the New York Legends series. This book features FMC Darcy Kendrick (who we met in book 1) and NHL Team Captain Eric Tremaine. The premise showcases many of the usual tropes, yet somehow it never felt forced or too rigid.
I fell in love with both characters - seriously, they are both adorable. Darcy is the admin to the team owner and those two have a hilarious relationship. She also has a quiet crush on Eric but knows he will never ever even notice her in THAT way. Eric is the “perfect” team captain. He is patient and kind and a great leader. Unfortunately, we learn the reasons behind that behavior and how everything is emotionally taxing on him. He is seriously buckling under all of the pressure.
Darcy mistakingly sends a very spicy DM TO Eric instead of to her BFF and that changes everything. Throw in a family wedding that both are required to go to and the ball starts rolling……
I enjoyed every minute of it.
I listened to this on audio and the female narrator - C.J. Bloom - was perfect in her portrayal of Darcy. Will Damron was also wonderful as the male lead and the two of them together really brought the story to life. Now that I have found myself back in Ms. Bowen’s hockey world, I’m going to be on the lookout for the next new books in each series :)
I had a blast going from one Sarina Bowen book to another. I mentioned in the first review that it had been a while since I had been back in a Sarina Bowen world and I had forgotten how much I loved it. Well, that has definitely not changed.
In this book, we are still in the hockey world, but this time we are in the New York Legends series. This book features FMC Darcy Kendrick (who we met in book 1) and NHL Team Captain Eric Tremaine. The premise showcases many of the usual tropes, yet somehow it never felt forced or too rigid.
I fell in love with both characters - seriously, they are both adorable. Darcy is the admin to the team owner and those two have a hilarious relationship. She also has a quiet crush on Eric but knows he will never ever even notice her in THAT way. Eric is the “perfect” team captain. He is patient and kind and a great leader. Unfortunately, we learn the reasons behind that behavior and how everything is emotionally taxing on him. He is seriously buckling under all of the pressure.
Darcy mistakingly sends a very spicy DM TO Eric instead of to her BFF and that changes everything. Throw in a family wedding that both are required to go to and the ball starts rolling……
I enjoyed every minute of it.
I listened to this on audio and the female narrator - C.J. Bloom - was perfect in her portrayal of Darcy. Will Damron was also wonderful as the male lead and the two of them together really brought the story to life. Now that I have found myself back in Ms. Bowen’s hockey world, I’m going to be on the lookout for the next new books in each series :)
August 14, 2026
Did not mean to read this in a day, but also it was too fun to put down. When Bowen works for me, she really works for me. I appreciated that there was no forced resolution of the complicated family relationships here, although I do think that the ending of the book felt a bit abrupt because I was expecting a little more there. But overall, had a very good time reading this and looking forward to the next in the series.
March 2, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book releasing in June 2026.
I could not put this down, the way this author writes just has such an ease to it. You get drawn in and don’t wanna leave. The tension, the chemistry, the banter - all great.
This book is the 2nd in the series of interconnected hockey romance standalones - this is about Darcy and Eric. Eric is the captain, the dependable, if not predictable one. He runs the team on and off the ice, but also takes responsibility for his family and their problems as well. Darcy is the outcast of her complicated family. Working as the assistant to the GM she spends a lot of time with the team and she makes sure everything is organized and running smoothly. Darcy and Eric usually keep their distance, because Darcy is prickly towards Eric - little does he know, it’s because she’s got a little crush on him. But one little mistaken click - and Darcy accidentally slides into his DMs revealing all her spicy thoughts on the man. Thus begins Eric’s awakening to noticing Darcy. Add in a lot of family drama, a wedding and a fake dating plot and it’s a love story and a mess all in one.
I could not put this down, the way this author writes just has such an ease to it. You get drawn in and don’t wanna leave. The tension, the chemistry, the banter - all great.
This book is the 2nd in the series of interconnected hockey romance standalones - this is about Darcy and Eric. Eric is the captain, the dependable, if not predictable one. He runs the team on and off the ice, but also takes responsibility for his family and their problems as well. Darcy is the outcast of her complicated family. Working as the assistant to the GM she spends a lot of time with the team and she makes sure everything is organized and running smoothly. Darcy and Eric usually keep their distance, because Darcy is prickly towards Eric - little does he know, it’s because she’s got a little crush on him. But one little mistaken click - and Darcy accidentally slides into his DMs revealing all her spicy thoughts on the man. Thus begins Eric’s awakening to noticing Darcy. Add in a lot of family drama, a wedding and a fake dating plot and it’s a love story and a mess all in one.
May 13, 2026
2.5 stars rounded down
While Big Stick Energy is classified as a sports romance, the "sports" are few and far between. The story also relies too heavily on the reader knowing the characters from book 1: specifically, the FMC. There was a lot about her character that I was supposed to remember from the first book, and I think that did her and her story a disservice.
What did I like? The setup of why these two were attending the wedding together was great. I also really enjoyed both of their family's backstories. They were unique and heartwrenching and a great addition to a romance story. However, the backstories did start to overshadow the romance, so this didn't feel like a romance story anymore.
What did I dislike? What I listed above about the "sports" romance and the characterization of the FMC is sparse. I also don't like it when the villain is another woman who is "jealous" of the FMC. I wish the dynamic between the FMC and the "villain" had a more satisfactory ending, because I think there was potential for growth there. Now... let's talk about the romance. Initially, I liked it. But it moved too fast. The author would start a romantic scene, and then jump to it being over and the characters remembering it... like bro... what am I reading this for?! There was no tension, and everything was predictable. I did skim the last 20% of the book because I was so bored with it.
And... yeah. That's it. I really, really enjoyed book 1, but book 2 lost me, and I'm not interested in the MC for book 3. Another sports romance series bites the dust.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
While Big Stick Energy is classified as a sports romance, the "sports" are few and far between. The story also relies too heavily on the reader knowing the characters from book 1: specifically, the FMC. There was a lot about her character that I was supposed to remember from the first book, and I think that did her and her story a disservice.
What did I like? The setup of why these two were attending the wedding together was great. I also really enjoyed both of their family's backstories. They were unique and heartwrenching and a great addition to a romance story. However, the backstories did start to overshadow the romance, so this didn't feel like a romance story anymore.
What did I dislike? What I listed above about the "sports" romance and the characterization of the FMC is sparse. I also don't like it when the villain is another woman who is "jealous" of the FMC. I wish the dynamic between the FMC and the "villain" had a more satisfactory ending, because I think there was potential for growth there. Now... let's talk about the romance. Initially, I liked it. But it moved too fast. The author would start a romantic scene, and then jump to it being over and the characters remembering it... like bro... what am I reading this for?! There was no tension, and everything was predictable. I did skim the last 20% of the book because I was so bored with it.
And... yeah. That's it. I really, really enjoyed book 1, but book 2 lost me, and I'm not interested in the MC for book 3. Another sports romance series bites the dust.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
June 27, 2026
ARC Review - NetGalley
It took me a long time to really get into the book. I normally love a good hockey romance but this book was too slow for me. This is my first time reading this author as well. Darcy and Eric story was cute. Darcy send a risky dm to her bestie or so she thought. The dm went to Eric. After it was about it. The dm pretty much set things into motion. Grief was covered due to Eric losing a brother and his parents never recovered from the loss. Which caused his mother to make questionable decisions. Darcy family dynamics is also messed up between her parents and siblings. There were couple spicy scenes and the chemistry between Darcy and Eric was good. I would recommend this book to all the hockey romance readers. I gave this book 3 stars because while it was enjoyable it took me a while to really get into the story. I appreciate how grief and the challenges the families faced were handled.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
It took me a long time to really get into the book. I normally love a good hockey romance but this book was too slow for me. This is my first time reading this author as well. Darcy and Eric story was cute. Darcy send a risky dm to her bestie or so she thought. The dm went to Eric. After it was about it. The dm pretty much set things into motion. Grief was covered due to Eric losing a brother and his parents never recovered from the loss. Which caused his mother to make questionable decisions. Darcy family dynamics is also messed up between her parents and siblings. There were couple spicy scenes and the chemistry between Darcy and Eric was good. I would recommend this book to all the hockey romance readers. I gave this book 3 stars because while it was enjoyable it took me a while to really get into the story. I appreciate how grief and the challenges the families faced were handled.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 30, 2026
4.5 stars
Brilliant story as always from Sarina Bowen. Her FMCs are fantastic! Darcy is scrappy and down to earth and hilarious and o loved her. Eric the eternal caretaker is perfect for her and he needs Darcy to help him set some of his baggage down. I was swooning at the way he has been noticing and low key crushing on her without her noticing when she has been High Key crushing on him with all the noticing. I always love a wayward text so funny!
The pace is great, the development of character arcs is fantastic, the spice is spicing and angst is just perfect without bringing you down.
This is a great light read , a lovely sports romance with wonderful hidden depths and reconnecting and resolving some if the past that’s been holding you back.
Ps I also loved Belly
Highly recommend for a good time 🫠🫠🫠
Brilliant story as always from Sarina Bowen. Her FMCs are fantastic! Darcy is scrappy and down to earth and hilarious and o loved her. Eric the eternal caretaker is perfect for her and he needs Darcy to help him set some of his baggage down. I was swooning at the way he has been noticing and low key crushing on her without her noticing when she has been High Key crushing on him with all the noticing. I always love a wayward text so funny!
The pace is great, the development of character arcs is fantastic, the spice is spicing and angst is just perfect without bringing you down.
This is a great light read , a lovely sports romance with wonderful hidden depths and reconnecting and resolving some if the past that’s been holding you back.
Ps I also loved Belly
Highly recommend for a good time 🫠🫠🫠
June 30, 2026
I really enjoy Sarina Bowen! This woman just pulls me into a story, and I never want to let go. I lost count of the times I have binged her books one way or another. Her stories are likeable, if that makes sense. Like no matter how many times you’ve read a particular trope or circumstance, Sarina just makes you want it again and again.
Anywho, I’m just popping in to do what I do and tell you to go one-click this romance cuz it’s really good! However, because it’s release day and no ALC, I’m starting the audiobook today so stay tuned …
(The World Cup is keeping me pretty busy so don’t wait up LOL)
Anywho, I’m just popping in to do what I do and tell you to go one-click this romance cuz it’s really good! However, because it’s release day and no ALC, I’m starting the audiobook today so stay tuned …
(The World Cup is keeping me pretty busy so don’t wait up LOL)
February 25, 2026
I enjoyed reading Big Stick Energy! I’m always a sucker for a fake dating trope, and this one totally delivered. The characters were easy to root for, even when they were being a little stubborn. It’s definitely a little cheesy at times, but the banter and chemistry between Darcy and Eric made it impossible not to have fun with it. If you’re looking for a light, swoony, and entertaining romance, this one’s for you.
Thank you to Netgalley and Forever for the opportunity to read and review this eARC early!
Thank you to Netgalley and Forever for the opportunity to read and review this eARC early!
July 6, 2026
3.5 stars
July 17, 2026
Just a rom-com in a world full of dram-coms. God Bless Sarina Bowen.
July 20, 2026
3.5 stars. fun! not too serious! some of the hockey stuff was off like the dates of the season, how many times teams play each other. but still... not enough hockey...
July 16, 2026
I really enjoyed the first one in this series but I didn’t like this at all. It was very boring and the main characters had zero chemistry.
August 27, 2026
#Review: Big Stick Energy - Sarina Bowen - ARC [16+]
4.4/5✨
2.5/5🌶️
Hockey team admin, Darcy Kendrick was supposed to send a quite steamy message to one of her friends, one which contained spicy thoughts about the hockey captain team, Eric Tremaine, but she accidentally sent it exactly to the person who never supposed to see it and that was Eric himself. She thought that maybe he wouldn't see it, but that didn't happen and it was the perfect thing to give Eric an idea which could be beneficial for both of them - to fake date for an upcoming common wedding. But getting to know each other will make things shift between them and will soon make them question if what was initial fake, was still the same after all the things they've been through together.
Sarina has delivered another great story, one which made me giggle quite often because of Darcy clumsiness, but it also played with my feelings, because of the emotional side of it. Both Eric and Darcy had some things to overcome and to face when it came to their families and it was so easy to empathize with them and to root for them, in achieving that peace they've wanted. I enjoyed so much to see how they slowly got to know each other better, while being part of the same wedding and how supportive they were when it came to the things that affected them. Even though Darcy was a sassy and confident woman, she had her moments of vulnerability and I loved how Eric was there to make her feel better. The exact same thing has happened with him as well, because he was one of the most loved hockey players, but somehow only Darcy managed to get under his skin and succeeded in getting to see him in another light, where he wasn't that shiny player which everyone kept on seeing while being in the spotlights.
I've enjoyed reading and discovering this fake dating romance story, Darcy and Eric being such a delicious couple and easy to fall in love with. That was possible thanks to Sarina's team, who offered me the access to this wonderful e-ARC on Netgalley and I wanna thank them so, so much for it!💗
✨Tropes
▫️Fake Dating
▫️Forced Proximity
▫️Banter
▫️Workplace Romance
▫️Sports Romance
▫️Hockey Player
4.4/5✨
2.5/5🌶️
Hockey team admin, Darcy Kendrick was supposed to send a quite steamy message to one of her friends, one which contained spicy thoughts about the hockey captain team, Eric Tremaine, but she accidentally sent it exactly to the person who never supposed to see it and that was Eric himself. She thought that maybe he wouldn't see it, but that didn't happen and it was the perfect thing to give Eric an idea which could be beneficial for both of them - to fake date for an upcoming common wedding. But getting to know each other will make things shift between them and will soon make them question if what was initial fake, was still the same after all the things they've been through together.
Sarina has delivered another great story, one which made me giggle quite often because of Darcy clumsiness, but it also played with my feelings, because of the emotional side of it. Both Eric and Darcy had some things to overcome and to face when it came to their families and it was so easy to empathize with them and to root for them, in achieving that peace they've wanted. I enjoyed so much to see how they slowly got to know each other better, while being part of the same wedding and how supportive they were when it came to the things that affected them. Even though Darcy was a sassy and confident woman, she had her moments of vulnerability and I loved how Eric was there to make her feel better. The exact same thing has happened with him as well, because he was one of the most loved hockey players, but somehow only Darcy managed to get under his skin and succeeded in getting to see him in another light, where he wasn't that shiny player which everyone kept on seeing while being in the spotlights.
I've enjoyed reading and discovering this fake dating romance story, Darcy and Eric being such a delicious couple and easy to fall in love with. That was possible thanks to Sarina's team, who offered me the access to this wonderful e-ARC on Netgalley and I wanna thank them so, so much for it!💗
✨Tropes
▫️Fake Dating
▫️Forced Proximity
▫️Banter
▫️Workplace Romance
▫️Sports Romance
▫️Hockey Player
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Omg, Sarina has done it yet again!!! Thank you so so much to the publisher for inviting me to read and review this one early!
Now, I do have to start by saying that I did knock down one star for the third act break up, followed by months of Darcy and Eric moping around being sad because they can't talk like adults and figure out how to be together. And why did it have to take them Soo long to work through all of that??! This is my only negative note about this book. Otherwise, absolute BANGER.
I love Darcy.. she's a total badass who knows what she wants, and isn't afraid to step on some toes occasionally to stand up for herself and others. She's a BOSS. and Eric?? Man, he had it baddddd for her, and I was so here for it! I think that deep down, they both had always wanted each other, but they wouldn't let themselves get caught up in that fantasy, at least until the wedding when they pretended to be in a relationship. I knewww that would end in hurt feelings for both of them, especially with Darcy thinking that Eric doesn't do relationships and that he was just having fun with her for a while. But really? Eric was falling for her from the first kiss.
I adore Eric. He's always there for everyone else, and always puts everyone on the team and in his family before himself. But he realizes that he also needs to do something for himself, something that makes him happy. And that is being with Darcy. Once he got his head out of his ass and talked to Darcy, it all worked out!
To think this all started with a compromise to avoid each other's family drama.
Also, I HATE TESSA. she is the most obnoxious, self centered, rude person I have ever read about. And I was Soo happy when Darcy went off on her for the jet ski incident!! She totally deserved that.
Overall, this book was absolutely incredible and I cannot wait for DeLuca's book!!!
Now, I do have to start by saying that I did knock down one star for the third act break up, followed by months of Darcy and Eric moping around being sad because they can't talk like adults and figure out how to be together. And why did it have to take them Soo long to work through all of that??! This is my only negative note about this book. Otherwise, absolute BANGER.
I love Darcy.. she's a total badass who knows what she wants, and isn't afraid to step on some toes occasionally to stand up for herself and others. She's a BOSS. and Eric?? Man, he had it baddddd for her, and I was so here for it! I think that deep down, they both had always wanted each other, but they wouldn't let themselves get caught up in that fantasy, at least until the wedding when they pretended to be in a relationship. I knewww that would end in hurt feelings for both of them, especially with Darcy thinking that Eric doesn't do relationships and that he was just having fun with her for a while. But really? Eric was falling for her from the first kiss.
I adore Eric. He's always there for everyone else, and always puts everyone on the team and in his family before himself. But he realizes that he also needs to do something for himself, something that makes him happy. And that is being with Darcy. Once he got his head out of his ass and talked to Darcy, it all worked out!
To think this all started with a compromise to avoid each other's family drama.
Also, I HATE TESSA. she is the most obnoxious, self centered, rude person I have ever read about. And I was Soo happy when Darcy went off on her for the jet ski incident!! She totally deserved that.
Overall, this book was absolutely incredible and I cannot wait for DeLuca's book!!!
May 19, 2026
One of my favorite tropes when it comes to romance is fake dating. Mix that with a Sarina Bowen book and hockey and I'm game!
While Big Stick Energy is the second book in the New York Legends series, it absolutely stands on it's own. But, since I read the first book and got a glimpse of the MCs for this book, I was excited to see where team captain, Eric Tremaine and Darcy Kendrick, the right hand (wo)man to the Legends GM, story was going to go. An unlikely pair that balanced one another out when it came to family issues and ended up fitting perfectly.
Darcy has had a forever crush on Eric, but she thinks he has never really noticed her. When a comprising message from Darcy is not delivered to her BFF and accidentally lands in Eric's DMs, things get slightly awkward between the two. Luckily, these two can communicate and the message ends up being a gateway to something else. It leads to the two of them becoming each others dates to a wedding they both are invited to and they both need a little buffer when it comes to their families.
Bowen, in my opinion is at her best when she incorporates hockey into her stories. And while Energy is not filled with a lot of hockey since it's set mostly in post playoffs/summer time, we still get the whole hockey feel. With the playoffs, the team members and even the side projects they work on during the offseason, I never felt like hockey was too far away. Especially when both of the MCs careers are in hockey. With that said, since the majority of the story is focused on fake dating at a wedding, I liked how well Darcy and Eric played their roles, supported one another and communicated what they needed. The characters felt mature and like that could work through anything. Their chemistry and connection was just so natural. They didn't have a whole lot of drama between them, more from outside forces including their families and demanding jobs.
In addition to our MC's I also loved that we still got glimpses of past characters and the way they all came together like family. I just love this world Bowen has created and how fleshed out each character and their arcs are. A fun, hot and entertaining series with great characters that I can't get enough of. I really look forward to more in this world.
If you like fake dating and family drama all set during a wedding weekend, Big Stick Energy is not to be missed.
While Big Stick Energy is the second book in the New York Legends series, it absolutely stands on it's own. But, since I read the first book and got a glimpse of the MCs for this book, I was excited to see where team captain, Eric Tremaine and Darcy Kendrick, the right hand (wo)man to the Legends GM, story was going to go. An unlikely pair that balanced one another out when it came to family issues and ended up fitting perfectly.
Darcy has had a forever crush on Eric, but she thinks he has never really noticed her. When a comprising message from Darcy is not delivered to her BFF and accidentally lands in Eric's DMs, things get slightly awkward between the two. Luckily, these two can communicate and the message ends up being a gateway to something else. It leads to the two of them becoming each others dates to a wedding they both are invited to and they both need a little buffer when it comes to their families.
Bowen, in my opinion is at her best when she incorporates hockey into her stories. And while Energy is not filled with a lot of hockey since it's set mostly in post playoffs/summer time, we still get the whole hockey feel. With the playoffs, the team members and even the side projects they work on during the offseason, I never felt like hockey was too far away. Especially when both of the MCs careers are in hockey. With that said, since the majority of the story is focused on fake dating at a wedding, I liked how well Darcy and Eric played their roles, supported one another and communicated what they needed. The characters felt mature and like that could work through anything. Their chemistry and connection was just so natural. They didn't have a whole lot of drama between them, more from outside forces including their families and demanding jobs.
In addition to our MC's I also loved that we still got glimpses of past characters and the way they all came together like family. I just love this world Bowen has created and how fleshed out each character and their arcs are. A fun, hot and entertaining series with great characters that I can't get enough of. I really look forward to more in this world.
If you like fake dating and family drama all set during a wedding weekend, Big Stick Energy is not to be missed.
March 6, 2026
Omg I devoured this book, it was SO good! I really enjoyed Thrown for a Loop, but I LOVED this one! Eric Tremaine is on of the best MMCs I have read in a long time. This book has fake dating and it’s a workplace romance. The spice was great I would give it 2.5-3 out of 5 and it was written really well.
This book follows Darcy, the assistant to the GM of New York’s professional hockey team and Eric, who is the captain of the team. She accidentally slides into his DM explaining the dirty things she wants to do to him and mentions bringing him as a date to her half-brother’s wedding. He talks to her about it and reveals he is also invited to that wedding.
They decide to go to the wedding shower as dates and end up in a fake relationship. All the while, they are both trying to navigate trauma with their own families. Eric is one of the best MMCs I have read in a long time. He pays attention and shows his love in quiet ways. Darcy had a traumatic childhood and struggles with communicating her feelings with Eric (which I usually hate) but it was easy to understand where she was coming from I think.
I absolutely adored this book and cannot wait to read the next one! Thank you so much to NetGalley, Forever, and Sarina Bowen for letting me read the ARC for this book
This book follows Darcy, the assistant to the GM of New York’s professional hockey team and Eric, who is the captain of the team. She accidentally slides into his DM explaining the dirty things she wants to do to him and mentions bringing him as a date to her half-brother’s wedding. He talks to her about it and reveals he is also invited to that wedding.
They decide to go to the wedding shower as dates and end up in a fake relationship. All the while, they are both trying to navigate trauma with their own families. Eric is one of the best MMCs I have read in a long time. He pays attention and shows his love in quiet ways. Darcy had a traumatic childhood and struggles with communicating her feelings with Eric (which I usually hate) but it was easy to understand where she was coming from I think.
I absolutely adored this book and cannot wait to read the next one! Thank you so much to NetGalley, Forever, and Sarina Bowen for letting me read the ARC for this book
August 27, 2026
3.5 stars
Definitely liked this better than Thrown for a Loop.
First, I got both Darcy and Eric’s perspectives in the present time (unlike Zoe and Chase’s book, where I only got Chase’s perspective in the past as flashbacks). So it was nice to actually be inside both of their heads and see how they felt about what was happening.
Second, despite the complicated family dynamics they both have, neither of them is really a “damaged” person. There’s an easiness to their relationship, even when they’re pretending to be together. They just... connect. And I really liked how they support each other when dealing with their complicated family members (or, in Tessa’s case, a BITCH!) 😂
Their main conflict as a couple is basically a bit of a power dynamic issue, with Eric being the Captain and Zoe being the admin. I was glad to find out that Zoe apparently means more to the owner than Eric does *laugh*.
Still, I was distracted by other titles while reading this, so although I enjoyed it, I don't think it managed to completely grip my attention. But overall, definitely an improvement for me compared to the previous book.
Definitely liked this better than Thrown for a Loop.
First, I got both Darcy and Eric’s perspectives in the present time (unlike Zoe and Chase’s book, where I only got Chase’s perspective in the past as flashbacks). So it was nice to actually be inside both of their heads and see how they felt about what was happening.
Second, despite the complicated family dynamics they both have, neither of them is really a “damaged” person. There’s an easiness to their relationship, even when they’re pretending to be together. They just... connect. And I really liked how they support each other when dealing with their complicated family members (or, in Tessa’s case, a BITCH!) 😂
Their main conflict as a couple is basically a bit of a power dynamic issue, with Eric being the Captain and Zoe being the admin. I was glad to find out that Zoe apparently means more to the owner than Eric does *laugh*.
Still, I was distracted by other titles while reading this, so although I enjoyed it, I don't think it managed to completely grip my attention. But overall, definitely an improvement for me compared to the previous book.
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