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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
106 books19.9k 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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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.
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.
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 10, 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
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!
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.
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
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 28, 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.
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.
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
February 2, 2026
Thank you to Edelweiss for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This can be read as a standalone. Darcy Kendrick is the administrative assistant to the owner of a hockey team. She has a crush on the hockey captain, Eric Tremaine. She accidentally sends him an Instagram message (originally intended for her best friend) that talks about how handsome she finds him and what she wants to do to him. Darcy knows that her reputation at her job will take a hit if she starts a relationship with a player. When Eric and Darcy realize that they have to go to the same wedding, Eric suggests that they pretend to fake date to make the weekend go more smoothly. (The bride is the ex-fiancée of Eric's dead brother, and the groom is Darcy's somewhat estranged half-brother.) The chemistry between Eric and Darcy was great. I thought both characters were likable, but I was distracted with Darcy's toxic family. Her half-sister is horrible. I felt like this book built up the sexual tension, but then it fell flat. I still plan on reading the next book in the series.
Too much dysfunctional families, but I loved Darcy and Eric together. Eric's mom is struggling to cope and grieve for her eldest son who died in his early 20s. His ex-fiancée is getting married and Eric's mom . Meanwhile, Darcy
Spice rating: 3.5 out of 5 🔥 (Barely any spice?? Disappointed.)
Content: sex, toxic family, gaslighting, death of a child, depression, cheating
This can be read as a standalone. Darcy Kendrick is the administrative assistant to the owner of a hockey team. She has a crush on the hockey captain, Eric Tremaine. She accidentally sends him an Instagram message (originally intended for her best friend) that talks about how handsome she finds him and what she wants to do to him. Darcy knows that her reputation at her job will take a hit if she starts a relationship with a player. When Eric and Darcy realize that they have to go to the same wedding, Eric suggests that they pretend to fake date to make the weekend go more smoothly. (The bride is the ex-fiancée of Eric's dead brother, and the groom is Darcy's somewhat estranged half-brother.) The chemistry between Eric and Darcy was great. I thought both characters were likable, but I was distracted with Darcy's toxic family. Her half-sister is horrible. I felt like this book built up the sexual tension, but then it fell flat. I still plan on reading the next book in the series.
Too much dysfunctional families, but I loved Darcy and Eric together. Eric's mom is struggling to cope and grieve for her eldest son who died in his early 20s. His ex-fiancée is getting married and Eric's mom . Meanwhile, Darcy
Spice rating: 3.5 out of 5 🔥 (Barely any spice?? Disappointed.)
Content: sex, toxic family, gaslighting, death of a child, depression, cheating
May 25, 2026
I LOVE THIS SERIES OMG!!! This book was such a fun and fast paced read. Eric is the standard and I loved seeing him become obsessed with Darcy. Darcy’s relationship with her boss is actually my favorite thing ever and the last few chapters of this book really made it amazing!!
Thank you netgalley and Forever for the arc!
Thank you netgalley and Forever for the arc!
June 30, 2026
4 stars
The second book in the New York Legends series, this is a fun and banter-filled story featuring both a fake relationship and a forbidden romance, with mutual pining and fantastic chemistry, and I really enjoyed this read.
Darcy works admin for the Legends hockey team, and she's the one who keeps everything running smoothly. So when she accidentally sends a text fantasising about team captain Eric to him instead of her best friend, she's mortified. Whoops! It’s hugely embarrassing, and though she tries to gloss over it, it puts her directly in Eric’s path. Though they obviously know each other, they’ve never really spent a lot of time together, and now that Darcy has accidentally opened the door, she’s suddenly all Eric can think about. When they discover they're attending the same wedding, they decide to fake a relationship to survive their drama-filled families. Of course, all the flirting, lingering touches and longing looks soon become anything but fake.
I love this setup, and these two are so fantastic together! Eric is a golden retriever who is newly smitten, which is so much fun when he’s up against Darcy’s straight-talking confidence. They tease and banter as they get to know each other, and when they realise they can't keep their hands off each other, they decide to explore their undeniable chemistry. They are SO hot together! Their connection is palpable, and I freaking loved watching them come together!
Though Darcy has lusted after Eric from afar for the longest time, it’s him who falls hard, and when they need to get back to being only work colleagues, he’s not prepared to let her go quite so easily. But given their histories and their complicated work dynamic, he has a battle on his hands to convince her to give him a real chance..
This is a fun read which is both entertaining and heartfelt. I loved these characters so much – they are real, relatable and so gorgeous together, and I was cheering for them from start to finish.
I loved seeing more of the Legends team. The boys are so funny together, and I’m excited for more from this series.
4 stars – I loved it.
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
The second book in the New York Legends series, this is a fun and banter-filled story featuring both a fake relationship and a forbidden romance, with mutual pining and fantastic chemistry, and I really enjoyed this read.
Darcy works admin for the Legends hockey team, and she's the one who keeps everything running smoothly. So when she accidentally sends a text fantasising about team captain Eric to him instead of her best friend, she's mortified. Whoops! It’s hugely embarrassing, and though she tries to gloss over it, it puts her directly in Eric’s path. Though they obviously know each other, they’ve never really spent a lot of time together, and now that Darcy has accidentally opened the door, she’s suddenly all Eric can think about. When they discover they're attending the same wedding, they decide to fake a relationship to survive their drama-filled families. Of course, all the flirting, lingering touches and longing looks soon become anything but fake.
I love this setup, and these two are so fantastic together! Eric is a golden retriever who is newly smitten, which is so much fun when he’s up against Darcy’s straight-talking confidence. They tease and banter as they get to know each other, and when they realise they can't keep their hands off each other, they decide to explore their undeniable chemistry. They are SO hot together! Their connection is palpable, and I freaking loved watching them come together!
Though Darcy has lusted after Eric from afar for the longest time, it’s him who falls hard, and when they need to get back to being only work colleagues, he’s not prepared to let her go quite so easily. But given their histories and their complicated work dynamic, he has a battle on his hands to convince her to give him a real chance..
This is a fun read which is both entertaining and heartfelt. I loved these characters so much – they are real, relatable and so gorgeous together, and I was cheering for them from start to finish.
I loved seeing more of the Legends team. The boys are so funny together, and I’m excited for more from this series.
4 stars – I loved it.
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
June 30, 2026
Encore une belle lecture pour cette romance de Sarina Bowen. L'univers du hockey est évidemment présent mais pas prédominant. Nous ne pourrons que nous attacher aux personnages, oscillant entre moments légers et plein de réparties et d'autres empreints de belles émotions.
Tout va démarrer par un SMS que Darcy envoie à la mauvais personne, à son crush de toujours, au hockeyeur Eric. Si ce point de départ sera amusant et embarrassant, ils vont se rendre compte qu'ils pouraient se rendre service en assistant en tant que faux couple au mariage où ils devront faire à des tensions familiales. Darcy est une héroïne comme je les aime car on peut facilement s'attacher à elle. Elle est prête à tout pour venir en aide aux autre, parfois au détriment de son propre bonheur. Elle manque de confiance en elle et elle aura du mal à trouver de la place dans cette nouvelle famille que va former son père. La solution du fake dating est la solution idéale sauf quand celle ci doit faire face à de vrais sentiments.
Eric est donc joueur de hockey mais cette fois-ci, les choses vont plus se dérouler en dehors de la glace que dessus. Il est aussi loin des clichés qu'on peut attribuer à ce genre de héros: il n'est pas hautain, c'est un super capitaine. Il n'est pas superficiel et cache des failles. En effet, malgré son apparente confiance, il n'a pas encore totalement surmonté le deuil vécu. Il partage un trait de caractère avec Darcy puisqu'il se penche sur les malheurs et soucis des autres au lieu de penser à lui et à se préserver. J'ai aimé le slow burn qui va s'installer et conquérir nos coeurs. Ils vont devoir apprendre à dire non et ne pas s'épuiser émotionnellement face aux éxigences des autres. Leurs familles peuvent être toxique et attention au manque de communication qui pourrait tout faire voler en éclats.
Bref, même si nous ne sommes pas sur la glace, celle ci va fondre face à nos deux héros. Cette romance nous fera vibrer au gré des pages Un second tome des New York legens qui a su me toucher en plein coeur. Vivement la suite.
Tout va démarrer par un SMS que Darcy envoie à la mauvais personne, à son crush de toujours, au hockeyeur Eric. Si ce point de départ sera amusant et embarrassant, ils vont se rendre compte qu'ils pouraient se rendre service en assistant en tant que faux couple au mariage où ils devront faire à des tensions familiales. Darcy est une héroïne comme je les aime car on peut facilement s'attacher à elle. Elle est prête à tout pour venir en aide aux autre, parfois au détriment de son propre bonheur. Elle manque de confiance en elle et elle aura du mal à trouver de la place dans cette nouvelle famille que va former son père. La solution du fake dating est la solution idéale sauf quand celle ci doit faire face à de vrais sentiments.
Eric est donc joueur de hockey mais cette fois-ci, les choses vont plus se dérouler en dehors de la glace que dessus. Il est aussi loin des clichés qu'on peut attribuer à ce genre de héros: il n'est pas hautain, c'est un super capitaine. Il n'est pas superficiel et cache des failles. En effet, malgré son apparente confiance, il n'a pas encore totalement surmonté le deuil vécu. Il partage un trait de caractère avec Darcy puisqu'il se penche sur les malheurs et soucis des autres au lieu de penser à lui et à se préserver. J'ai aimé le slow burn qui va s'installer et conquérir nos coeurs. Ils vont devoir apprendre à dire non et ne pas s'épuiser émotionnellement face aux éxigences des autres. Leurs familles peuvent être toxique et attention au manque de communication qui pourrait tout faire voler en éclats.
Bref, même si nous ne sommes pas sur la glace, celle ci va fondre face à nos deux héros. Cette romance nous fera vibrer au gré des pages Un second tome des New York legens qui a su me toucher en plein coeur. Vivement la suite.
July 2, 2026
Thank you Netgalley for giving me this ARC
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This book was an okay read, a cute sports romance between a GM manager assistant and the captain of the hockey team. The banter was good, the fake dating even made it even better!! I would have to not see as much slang as I did, it was the thing that kind of destabilized me while reading. I also feel like I'm getting a slump because I am in urgent need of a major 5 star read. It might be the reason why I ended up giving this book a 3 star and nothing more.
"I want to be the person he saves a seat for. The one he texts when something stupid happens. The one he trusts with the stuff that matters."
Darcy has been pining over Eric for a long time, but she never let herself think she had a chance with him as the golden boy of the hockey team. She didn't really believe that she'd have a chance with him without knowing that he also has had a soft spot for her. She's a part of a very dysfonctional family, she never had a real relationship with her half siblings, so she's surprised when she gets the invitation to go to her brother's wedding. Turns out, she will need a date if she wants her vicious sister Tessa to stop critizing her every move, and that date is Eric.
"Nothing in that picture is a lie. Not one thing. I can't speak for you, but I was having a top ten night. I wasn't stressing about the playoffs or the schedule... I was just living."
The captain of the New York Legends has always been someone you can count on at literally any time of the day. He's helpful, kind and talented at what he does. What starts as a fake dating mission to get through the wedding weekend of his late brother's fiancée ends up being more than what he expected. He develops more than a liking toward Darcy, his coworker, which he knows a LOT abt.
If you're an adept of sports romance and fake dating, this book is definitely for you.
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This book was an okay read, a cute sports romance between a GM manager assistant and the captain of the hockey team. The banter was good, the fake dating even made it even better!! I would have to not see as much slang as I did, it was the thing that kind of destabilized me while reading. I also feel like I'm getting a slump because I am in urgent need of a major 5 star read. It might be the reason why I ended up giving this book a 3 star and nothing more.
"I want to be the person he saves a seat for. The one he texts when something stupid happens. The one he trusts with the stuff that matters."
Darcy has been pining over Eric for a long time, but she never let herself think she had a chance with him as the golden boy of the hockey team. She didn't really believe that she'd have a chance with him without knowing that he also has had a soft spot for her. She's a part of a very dysfonctional family, she never had a real relationship with her half siblings, so she's surprised when she gets the invitation to go to her brother's wedding. Turns out, she will need a date if she wants her vicious sister Tessa to stop critizing her every move, and that date is Eric.
"Nothing in that picture is a lie. Not one thing. I can't speak for you, but I was having a top ten night. I wasn't stressing about the playoffs or the schedule... I was just living."
The captain of the New York Legends has always been someone you can count on at literally any time of the day. He's helpful, kind and talented at what he does. What starts as a fake dating mission to get through the wedding weekend of his late brother's fiancée ends up being more than what he expected. He develops more than a liking toward Darcy, his coworker, which he knows a LOT abt.
If you're an adept of sports romance and fake dating, this book is definitely for you.
May 27, 2026
Big Stick Energy is the second book in the New York Legends series, following Darcy, the hockey team’s GM assistant, and Eric, the team’s star captain. After accidentally sending Eric a private DM, Darcy ends up striking a deal with her lifelong crush: they’ll act as each other’s buffer during a wedding they both have to attend. What starts as a simple arrangement quickly turns into something much more complicated.
Set right after the NHL playoffs, this felt like the perfect summer hockey romance. I really enjoyed the wedding festivities and the fake dating vibes woven throughout the story. The setting gave the book a fun, romantic atmosphere while still leaving room for more emotional moments.
One thing that really stood out was how heavily the story focused on family drama and complicated family dynamics. Darcy is trying to navigate a relationship with her estranged father’s second family, while Eric is still living in the shadow of his parents’ unresolved grief over the loss of their other son 11 years earlier. Those storylines added a lot of depth to both characters and made their emotional connection feel more meaningful.
The romance itself was incredibly cute, and I loved how thoughtful and attentive Eric was toward Darcy. As always with hockey romances, one of my favorite parts was the team dynamic, and this book absolutely delivered on that front too.
Overall, this was a fun, emotional, and swoony hockey romance, and I’m already excited for the next book—especially since it follows my favorite character! If you enjoy hockey romances with fake dating, family drama, and strong team chemistry, I’d definitely recommend this one.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book!
Set right after the NHL playoffs, this felt like the perfect summer hockey romance. I really enjoyed the wedding festivities and the fake dating vibes woven throughout the story. The setting gave the book a fun, romantic atmosphere while still leaving room for more emotional moments.
One thing that really stood out was how heavily the story focused on family drama and complicated family dynamics. Darcy is trying to navigate a relationship with her estranged father’s second family, while Eric is still living in the shadow of his parents’ unresolved grief over the loss of their other son 11 years earlier. Those storylines added a lot of depth to both characters and made their emotional connection feel more meaningful.
The romance itself was incredibly cute, and I loved how thoughtful and attentive Eric was toward Darcy. As always with hockey romances, one of my favorite parts was the team dynamic, and this book absolutely delivered on that front too.
Overall, this was a fun, emotional, and swoony hockey romance, and I’m already excited for the next book—especially since it follows my favorite character! If you enjoy hockey romances with fake dating, family drama, and strong team chemistry, I’d definitely recommend this one.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book!
June 14, 2026
I love this series, and I loved Darcy and Eric’s story. They had fantastic chemistry, great banter and rapport, and a genuine, gentle understanding of what each other was struggling with when it came to their respective families. They showed up for each other in really meaningful ways when they needed it most.
Darcy was such a dynamic character. She was exceedingly competent and had a great attitude in her approach to her job and the people around her. Despite her skill and abilities that were apparent, she couldn’t recognize the value everyone else saw in her. So much of that came from her family history and persisting dynamic with her dad and half-siblings. It made that part of her character make so much sense to me. Despite not allowing herself to trust in relying on others, she still approached life as someone others could rely on.
Eric was a genuine match for her. He took his role as captain seriously, on and off the ice. He knew he could take care of others, help people solve their problems, and take the lead, but he never worried about asking for anything more for himself. He was content with hockey being essentially the only thing he wanted or needed. When he and Darcy joined forces, they ultimately helped show the other what they could have for themselves. Darcy helped Eric understand he could set boundaries on his time and ask for more outside of hockey for himself. Eric helped Darcy realize that there were people who would actively choose her, would feel life was lacking without her, and would always have her back.
This book was so, so lovely. Thank you to Forever for the eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Darcy was such a dynamic character. She was exceedingly competent and had a great attitude in her approach to her job and the people around her. Despite her skill and abilities that were apparent, she couldn’t recognize the value everyone else saw in her. So much of that came from her family history and persisting dynamic with her dad and half-siblings. It made that part of her character make so much sense to me. Despite not allowing herself to trust in relying on others, she still approached life as someone others could rely on.
Eric was a genuine match for her. He took his role as captain seriously, on and off the ice. He knew he could take care of others, help people solve their problems, and take the lead, but he never worried about asking for anything more for himself. He was content with hockey being essentially the only thing he wanted or needed. When he and Darcy joined forces, they ultimately helped show the other what they could have for themselves. Darcy helped Eric understand he could set boundaries on his time and ask for more outside of hockey for himself. Eric helped Darcy realize that there were people who would actively choose her, would feel life was lacking without her, and would always have her back.
This book was so, so lovely. Thank you to Forever for the eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 4, 2026
4 stars. This was a good read! Big Stick Energy is Darcy and Eric's story and the second book in the New York Legends series. Darcy is an overworked, often unnoticed admin for the pro hockey team that Eric is on. She accidently DM's him, instead of her best friend, how hot she thinks he looks in his latest photo post. After she dies of embarrassment, she and Eric talk and realize they are both attending the same wedding. Darcy's father had a secret family that he left her and her mother for, when she was a child. The wedding is her brother (from another mother) that she doesn't know very well. She is not close with her brother, her father or her spoiled sister who treats her badly. But she is obligated to attend the wedding. On the other end, Eric had an older brother who died. His brother was engaged to the woman getting married to Darcy's brother. So both Darcy and Eric have some drama around this wedding that they are attending and to deflect some of that drama, they decide to fake date to the wedding and festivities leading up to it. Of course, the fake dating becomes real when they spend time together and feelings start to develop.
This was a good story. Darcy and Eric were a great match and were cute together. Eric fell first and he absolutely adored Darcy. There was low relationship angst. Darcy's family was awful and she had self-esteem issues because of it. I would have loved a confrontation with her father and mean sister where she took back some of her power. But other than that, this was a cute book and I really enjoyed it!
*arc provided by the author in exchange for a honest review*
This was a good story. Darcy and Eric were a great match and were cute together. Eric fell first and he absolutely adored Darcy. There was low relationship angst. Darcy's family was awful and she had self-esteem issues because of it. I would have loved a confrontation with her father and mean sister where she took back some of her power. But other than that, this was a cute book and I really enjoyed it!
*arc provided by the author in exchange for a honest review*
June 30, 2026
3.75⭐️
Darcy is the GM's assistant for New York's professional hockey team, and she just so happens to have a crush on the team captain, Eric. When a social media mishap alerts Eric to Darcy's infatuation, he begins to see her in a new light and proposes a fake dating arrangement to help them survive a wedding they're both obligated to attend and dreading for very different reasons.
I really enjoyed Thrown for a Loop and was so excited to pick up Big Stick Energy, and it did not disappoint! There's forced proximity, secret rendezvous, and all the fake-dating shenanigans you could hope for. We also get to see some favourite characters from the first book!
I loved the way Darcy and Eric band together to navigate a difficult period with their families and support one another through complicated dynamics. Eric and his family are still dealing with grief, while Darcy struggles with strained relationships with her parents and siblings. These storylines added real emotional weight and grounded the romance beautifully. The tension and yearning between them was top-tier and I was kicking my feet and smiling every time they interacted! The slow-burn romance and steadily building chemistry were incredibly satisfying and made every moment between them feel worthwhile.
While I wasn't the biggest fan of the miscommunication that drove most of the third-act conflict and breakup, I still thought this was a fantastic story that kept me captivated and grinning for most of the book. I read this very quickly and kept wanting to pick it back up! I can't wait to see what Sarina Bowen writes next in this series!
Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Darcy is the GM's assistant for New York's professional hockey team, and she just so happens to have a crush on the team captain, Eric. When a social media mishap alerts Eric to Darcy's infatuation, he begins to see her in a new light and proposes a fake dating arrangement to help them survive a wedding they're both obligated to attend and dreading for very different reasons.
I really enjoyed Thrown for a Loop and was so excited to pick up Big Stick Energy, and it did not disappoint! There's forced proximity, secret rendezvous, and all the fake-dating shenanigans you could hope for. We also get to see some favourite characters from the first book!
I loved the way Darcy and Eric band together to navigate a difficult period with their families and support one another through complicated dynamics. Eric and his family are still dealing with grief, while Darcy struggles with strained relationships with her parents and siblings. These storylines added real emotional weight and grounded the romance beautifully. The tension and yearning between them was top-tier and I was kicking my feet and smiling every time they interacted! The slow-burn romance and steadily building chemistry were incredibly satisfying and made every moment between them feel worthwhile.
While I wasn't the biggest fan of the miscommunication that drove most of the third-act conflict and breakup, I still thought this was a fantastic story that kept me captivated and grinning for most of the book. I read this very quickly and kept wanting to pick it back up! I can't wait to see what Sarina Bowen writes next in this series!
Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
June 23, 2026
Thank you to Forever/Grand Central Publishing for entrusting me with a gifted galley!
Big Stick Energy by Sarina Bowen
New York Legends Hockey book 2 (new couple each book)
Releases 6/30!
Hockey romance
Dual POV
Hockey team captain x team admin
Golden retriever MMC
Mental health rep
Fake dating
Complicated family
Slow burn to spicy
Darcy has a crush on the captain of the team she works for and one accidental DM later, he now knows about it. But they also discover they will be attending the same wedding festivities coming up and they can go together. Which goes down a slippery slope into fake dating with both of their complicated family dramas around. There is real attraction as well, but what would happen back in the real world? And how can she put her job at risk with these feelings?
I so enjoyed this one! Devoured it in a day because I couldn't put it down! Both Darcy and Eric take care of everyone one around them without care for themselves. But then they get to help each other out with that. I just love them together so much. This book takes place in the off season, so less on the hockey side, which didn't bother me with all the big emotions happening with their family and navigating their situation. As a side note, oh man, this hotel sounded so amazing, I want to go there! Such a great time! I've been adoring this series and can't wait for the next one!
Big Stick Energy by Sarina Bowen
New York Legends Hockey book 2 (new couple each book)
Releases 6/30!
Hockey romance
Dual POV
Hockey team captain x team admin
Golden retriever MMC
Mental health rep
Fake dating
Complicated family
Slow burn to spicy
Darcy has a crush on the captain of the team she works for and one accidental DM later, he now knows about it. But they also discover they will be attending the same wedding festivities coming up and they can go together. Which goes down a slippery slope into fake dating with both of their complicated family dramas around. There is real attraction as well, but what would happen back in the real world? And how can she put her job at risk with these feelings?
I so enjoyed this one! Devoured it in a day because I couldn't put it down! Both Darcy and Eric take care of everyone one around them without care for themselves. But then they get to help each other out with that. I just love them together so much. This book takes place in the off season, so less on the hockey side, which didn't bother me with all the big emotions happening with their family and navigating their situation. As a side note, oh man, this hotel sounded so amazing, I want to go there! Such a great time! I've been adoring this series and can't wait for the next one!
June 28, 2026
Big Stick Energy by Sarina Bowen
📚New York Legends, Book 2
✏️Interconnected Standalone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
♾️Jun. Favorite
Adult • Sports Romance
📖368 Pages
🗓️Jun. 30
👒hockey romance
👒fake dating
👒crush to more
👒one bed
👒slow burn
👒workplace romance
👒forbidden
🔎 “She’s easy to notice. I notice her all the time, come to think of it.”
🔎 “I’m the problem. It’s me.”
“Did you just quote Taylor Swift?”
“She said it best.”
It’s 10. 10 for 10 it is. 🎶
This book rearranged something inside of me that I didn’t even know needed to me moved.
I thought I had found all my favorites of the month but then Sarina Bowen said, “hold my pen” and knocked them all out of the way. 😍
Darcy was PERFECT. Just absolutely, utterly perfect. Her banter, her kindness, her crush, her DM failures, her job performance 😁 It all made me love her beyond measure with this heart of mine.
But Eric was not second to her. Oh no. He was there, side by side, vying for my attention and commanding my soul to follow.
Fake dating is always top tier. And while they thought it wasn’t real, we all saw it. In the way he noticed everything about her. In the way she fell first, way before that DM.
📚New York Legends, Book 2
✏️Interconnected Standalone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
♾️Jun. Favorite
Adult • Sports Romance
📖368 Pages
🗓️Jun. 30
👒hockey romance
👒fake dating
👒crush to more
👒one bed
👒slow burn
👒workplace romance
👒forbidden
🔎 “She’s easy to notice. I notice her all the time, come to think of it.”
🔎 “I’m the problem. It’s me.”
“Did you just quote Taylor Swift?”
“She said it best.”
It’s 10. 10 for 10 it is. 🎶
This book rearranged something inside of me that I didn’t even know needed to me moved.
I thought I had found all my favorites of the month but then Sarina Bowen said, “hold my pen” and knocked them all out of the way. 😍
Darcy was PERFECT. Just absolutely, utterly perfect. Her banter, her kindness, her crush, her DM failures, her job performance 😁 It all made me love her beyond measure with this heart of mine.
But Eric was not second to her. Oh no. He was there, side by side, vying for my attention and commanding my soul to follow.
Fake dating is always top tier. And while they thought it wasn’t real, we all saw it. In the way he noticed everything about her. In the way she fell first, way before that DM.
July 3, 2026
I have been a fan of Bowen's writing ever since reading her m/m hockey romance Him and Us which I highly recommend and has similar vibes to Heated Rivalry.
I was excited to see another hockey series, the New York Legends. I loved the first book and this one can be read as a standalone. Darcy works with the NY Legends and has had major crush on the team captain, Eric. She accidentally sent him a DM which was meant for a friend and this sets off their romance.
Eric and Darcy are so fun together. The premise of the story is that they end up faking dating to attend a wedding extravaganza for Darcy's half brother. There is so much shenanigans leading up to the wedding and that was a lot of fun.
The story does take place during the off season so if you want hockey, there isn't much of it in this story. I liked how they both had people dependent of them during off season and how Darcy helped Eric set boundaries.
Both Darcy and Eric had a lot of complicated family dynamics which some scenes I through was a bit over the top.
Overall, this was fun setting for a hockey romance and I loved seeing Zoe and Chase in this story.
Thank you @readforeverpub for a copy of the arc.
I was excited to see another hockey series, the New York Legends. I loved the first book and this one can be read as a standalone. Darcy works with the NY Legends and has had major crush on the team captain, Eric. She accidentally sent him a DM which was meant for a friend and this sets off their romance.
Eric and Darcy are so fun together. The premise of the story is that they end up faking dating to attend a wedding extravaganza for Darcy's half brother. There is so much shenanigans leading up to the wedding and that was a lot of fun.
The story does take place during the off season so if you want hockey, there isn't much of it in this story. I liked how they both had people dependent of them during off season and how Darcy helped Eric set boundaries.
Both Darcy and Eric had a lot of complicated family dynamics which some scenes I through was a bit over the top.
Overall, this was fun setting for a hockey romance and I loved seeing Zoe and Chase in this story.
Thank you @readforeverpub for a copy of the arc.
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