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New York Legends #2
Big Stick Energy
Not yet published
Expected 30 Jun 26A 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 fantasy: 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 plan: 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?
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 fantasy: 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 plan: 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?
368 pages, Paperback
Expected publication June 30, 2026
12 people are currently reading
1468 people want to read
About the author
Sarina Bowen
108 books19.1k 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!!! 😱😍😍
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.
Want to read
November 15, 2025I'm so looking forward to this book after having just finished reading Zoe and Chase's story!
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
January 26, 2026
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, so when this one popped up, I immediately moved it to the top of my reading list.
Darcy is the admin for the owner of the hockey team and Eric is the team captain. When they realize they’re both attending the same wedding, they decide that fake dating is the easiest way to deal with complicated family situations.
Darcy and Eric are very relatable. They both have complicated family lives and take a lot on in order to keep the peace. Darcy is it always on call for her boss, while trying to finish college. Eric always puts his teammates and his mom first. With the help of each other, they realize it’s OK to tell their families how they feel. Zoe and Chase, from the first book, make an appearance and I enjoyed the interaction between Darcy and her best friend Zoe.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Darcy is the admin for the owner of the hockey team and Eric is the team captain. When they realize they’re both attending the same wedding, they decide that fake dating is the easiest way to deal with complicated family situations.
Darcy and Eric are very relatable. They both have complicated family lives and take a lot on in order to keep the peace. Darcy is it always on call for her boss, while trying to finish college. Eric always puts his teammates and his mom first. With the help of each other, they realize it’s OK to tell their families how they feel. Zoe and Chase, from the first book, make an appearance and I enjoyed the interaction between Darcy and her best friend Zoe.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Five stars for this - I loved it even more than Thrown For A Loop!
This read SO quickly! I started it at 10pm and only didn't finish it the same night because my partner forced me to put it down so I could do silly things like get to sleep at a reasonable hour. I finished it less than 12 hours later though. This is very quickly becoming one of my favorite hockey romance series, right up there with the Jacksonville Rays and DC Stars.
With this book, we pick up with Darcy and Eric who know each other professionally from the team, but not in a romantic sense (yet). Through some incredibly awkward and funny situations, they realize they'll both be attending the same wedding over the summer break, and shenanigans ensue. There are so many cute moments throughout this. I really love Sarina's writing, and she does so well with writing a full cast of characters, even those not (presumably) that will be getting their own books. Even Sharpe (Darcy's boss) has really grown on me - I do hope we maybe get a book with him in the future. There were so many interactions with side characters that felt really genuine and touched on some genuinely hard moments. I am starting to notice a bit of a theme with this series where the FMCs still end up having unresolved parental issues, though progress was definitely made.
In the ARC copy I received, there were not content warnings (hopefully just not added yet), but I will callout that does factor into the story in a few places.
Overall, I absolutely recommend this series if you are in your Hockey Romance era. You'll definitely want to start with book 1 (Thrown For A Loop) which is available now. In the meantime, I'll be waiting oh so impatiently for book 3, which is supposed to be out in Winter 2027, by which I very sincerely hope they mean January 2027 and not December 2027.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book!
This read SO quickly! I started it at 10pm and only didn't finish it the same night because my partner forced me to put it down so I could do silly things like get to sleep at a reasonable hour. I finished it less than 12 hours later though. This is very quickly becoming one of my favorite hockey romance series, right up there with the Jacksonville Rays and DC Stars.
With this book, we pick up with Darcy and Eric who know each other professionally from the team, but not in a romantic sense (yet). Through some incredibly awkward and funny situations, they realize they'll both be attending the same wedding over the summer break, and shenanigans ensue. There are so many cute moments throughout this. I really love Sarina's writing, and she does so well with writing a full cast of characters, even those not (presumably) that will be getting their own books. Even Sharpe (Darcy's boss) has really grown on me - I do hope we maybe get a book with him in the future. There were so many interactions with side characters that felt really genuine and touched on some genuinely hard moments. I am starting to notice a bit of a theme with this series where the FMCs still end up having unresolved parental issues, though progress was definitely made.
In the ARC copy I received, there were not content warnings (hopefully just not added yet), but I will callout that does factor into the story in a few places.
Overall, I absolutely recommend this series if you are in your Hockey Romance era. You'll definitely want to start with book 1 (Thrown For A Loop) which is available now. In the meantime, I'll be waiting oh so impatiently for book 3, which is supposed to be out in Winter 2027, by which I very sincerely hope they mean January 2027 and not December 2027.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I’ve been so excited to read Darcy and Eric’s story, and it did not disappoint! It was clear from the previous book that Darcy had some feelings for Eric. And when she sends a message to her best friend about her fantasy about Eric she soon realizes that she didn’t actually send the message to Zoe but to Eric himself. Though she is most definitely mortified, it may end up being the best thing she has ever done. Turns out Eric needed a bit of a wake up call when it came to Darcy. Eric and Darcy have worked together for years and it’s very clear that Eric has paid attention to Darcy. But Eric is anything but selfish. He puts others before him all the time and spends so much of his energy being the best captain he can be. Doing things from himself? Not really a thing. But the message is the start of something. Especially when he realizes that the two of them will be going to the same wedding this summer. Cue the family drama for them both. What starts as being one another’s date to fake dating, is just the beginning glimpse of what they could be together if they give themselves the chance. For Eric, he has never really dated. Never found someone who made him want to ask for more. And for Darcy, growing up she has seen what it looks like when things go bad. Can they be brave enough to take the risk? I loved these two! They were so much fun and had amazing chemistry. I loved that they were friends and how this one trip really gave them a chance to realize how much they knew one another and how much more there was to learn. They just worked together so well. And these two were clearly falling hard for one another from the start, yet neither would admit it. Another great book in this series! We have some great characters and I can’t wait for the next one!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2026
Big Stick Energy
Sarina Bowen
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
ARC Book 2
First off, the MMC was hands-down my favorite so far in this series. The hockey captain is truly made of sugar, spice, and everything. That said, it did take me a while to warm up to Darcy. She wasn’t who I initially thought the captain would need, and I wasn’t fully convinced at first. But by the end? They were absolutely perfect together.
Grumpy/golden retriever MMC is one of my favorite topes. <3
About the book:
From the moment Darcy Kendrick accidentally DMs the New York Legends captain, Eric Tremainean, an accidental DM quickly turns into fake wedding dates, and layers in just enough mess to keep things fun and emotionally charged.
Darcy is a bubbly, overworked team admin who’s always fixing everyone else’s problems—except the one she accidentally creates herself. She’s competent, overwhelmed, and constantly underestimated, and she’s dealing with a horrible sister and a dramatic family that somehow always adds more stress to her life. Eric, meanwhile, is pure Big Stick Energy on the ice: confident, respected, secretly soft, and carrying the quiet weight of his own emotionally complicated past.
The magic here is the banter + vulnerability combo. Between helping each other deal with family drama, slow dances, and lingering moments, what starts as fake dating quickly turns into something that feels real.
The main reason I didn’t give this five stars was the family stuff. Both families were pretty messy, and I was really hoping for a bigger confrontation or a more solid resolution, rather than things feeling a bit left open. Other than that, the book was a solid read, and I highly recommend you read "Big Stick Energy" if you love fake dating, workplace romance, and a golden retriever hero. Big Stick Energy is the book for you.
Sarina Bowen
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
ARC Book 2
First off, the MMC was hands-down my favorite so far in this series. The hockey captain is truly made of sugar, spice, and everything. That said, it did take me a while to warm up to Darcy. She wasn’t who I initially thought the captain would need, and I wasn’t fully convinced at first. But by the end? They were absolutely perfect together.
Grumpy/golden retriever MMC is one of my favorite topes. <3
About the book:
From the moment Darcy Kendrick accidentally DMs the New York Legends captain, Eric Tremainean, an accidental DM quickly turns into fake wedding dates, and layers in just enough mess to keep things fun and emotionally charged.
Darcy is a bubbly, overworked team admin who’s always fixing everyone else’s problems—except the one she accidentally creates herself. She’s competent, overwhelmed, and constantly underestimated, and she’s dealing with a horrible sister and a dramatic family that somehow always adds more stress to her life. Eric, meanwhile, is pure Big Stick Energy on the ice: confident, respected, secretly soft, and carrying the quiet weight of his own emotionally complicated past.
The magic here is the banter + vulnerability combo. Between helping each other deal with family drama, slow dances, and lingering moments, what starts as fake dating quickly turns into something that feels real.
The main reason I didn’t give this five stars was the family stuff. Both families were pretty messy, and I was really hoping for a bigger confrontation or a more solid resolution, rather than things feeling a bit left open. Other than that, the book was a solid read, and I highly recommend you read "Big Stick Energy" if you love fake dating, workplace romance, and a golden retriever hero. Big Stick Energy is the book for you.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Big Stick Energy by Sarina Bowen
New York Legends Book 2
✨ One word: Comfort-hot
Sarina Bowen simply does not miss when it comes to hockey romance, and this one might be my favorite in the series so far. There’s less on-ice action here, but the heart of this book is the relationship between Darcy and Eric and it works. Hard.
Darcy is the overworked, hyper-competent team admin who accidentally sends her very private fantasy to the one man on earth she should not send it to: team captain Eric Tremaine. Instead of dying of embarrassment, they end up with a plan. Fake date through a chaotic wedding season. Deflect family drama. Keep it professional. Totally not real.
Except it is.
Darcy and Eric are so well matched. They’re both caretakers in their own ways, always showing up for everyone else, and it was incredibly satisfying to watch them finally be seen and supported by someone who truly gets it. Their banter is sharp, the emotional beats hit, and the way they quietly choose each other over and over again made my chest ache in the best way.
Also yes, there is an only one bed moment. And yes, the illustrated cover is lying to you. This is open-door and spicy.
I loved book one, but I might love this one more. It’s warm, funny, emotionally grounded, and deeply romantic in that Sarina Bowen way where the love feels earned.
Tropes you’ll love
🏒 Hockey romance
💍 Fake dating
🛏️ Only one bed
🔥 Workplace proximity
💞 Soft caretaking energy
👨👩👧👦 Messy families
Read this if you like
If you loved Elle Kennedy, Mariana Zapata, or slow-burn sports romances with heart, humor, and heat, this one belongs on your TBR immediately.
#BigStickEnergy #SarinaBowen #HockeyRomance #ForeverReads #NetGalley #ForeverPub
New York Legends Book 2
✨ One word: Comfort-hot
Sarina Bowen simply does not miss when it comes to hockey romance, and this one might be my favorite in the series so far. There’s less on-ice action here, but the heart of this book is the relationship between Darcy and Eric and it works. Hard.
Darcy is the overworked, hyper-competent team admin who accidentally sends her very private fantasy to the one man on earth she should not send it to: team captain Eric Tremaine. Instead of dying of embarrassment, they end up with a plan. Fake date through a chaotic wedding season. Deflect family drama. Keep it professional. Totally not real.
Except it is.
Darcy and Eric are so well matched. They’re both caretakers in their own ways, always showing up for everyone else, and it was incredibly satisfying to watch them finally be seen and supported by someone who truly gets it. Their banter is sharp, the emotional beats hit, and the way they quietly choose each other over and over again made my chest ache in the best way.
Also yes, there is an only one bed moment. And yes, the illustrated cover is lying to you. This is open-door and spicy.
I loved book one, but I might love this one more. It’s warm, funny, emotionally grounded, and deeply romantic in that Sarina Bowen way where the love feels earned.
Tropes you’ll love
🏒 Hockey romance
💍 Fake dating
🛏️ Only one bed
🔥 Workplace proximity
💞 Soft caretaking energy
👨👩👧👦 Messy families
Read this if you like
If you loved Elle Kennedy, Mariana Zapata, or slow-burn sports romances with heart, humor, and heat, this one belongs on your TBR immediately.
#BigStickEnergy #SarinaBowen #HockeyRomance #ForeverReads #NetGalley #ForeverPub
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Set mostly during a wedding weekend in the North Shore of Massachusetts, Darcy Kendrick works as an admin for the New York Legends NHL hockey team. Just before a big playoff game, she accidently sends a NSFW DM to the team captain, her long time crush. When Eric Tremaine sees the message, he can't help but see the redhead in a new light. But they both have this awkward wedding to go to while navigating their complicated families. Why not go together? And when her catty half sister makes some rude comments, Eric steps in with a solution: fake date during the festivities. One long weekend together with benefits shouldn't be a problem. But what happens afterwards?
It was fun to see Eric grow as captain as well as behind the scenes of Darcy's admin job. They both start to recognize how they can't control their families but instead focus on how they react instead. I look forward to seeing this couple interact with the rest of the team more in the next book!
This romance features:
💚 Hockey team captain x admin
🏒 Grief and loss - his brother
💚 Complicated family
🏒 New England wedding in July
💚 Dual POV
Open Door with fade to black / Spicy (including light bondage)
4 / 5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for this eARC!
It was fun to see Eric grow as captain as well as behind the scenes of Darcy's admin job. They both start to recognize how they can't control their families but instead focus on how they react instead. I look forward to seeing this couple interact with the rest of the team more in the next book!
This romance features:
💚 Hockey team captain x admin
🏒 Grief and loss - his brother
💚 Complicated family
🏒 New England wedding in July
💚 Dual POV
Open Door with fade to black / Spicy (including light bondage)
4 / 5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for this eARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was so excited to dive into the second book in the New York Legends series after loving Thrown for a Loop, and Big Stick Energy absolutely delivered. It felt so good to be back with this cast of characters, and from the very beginning I was completely pulled back into their world.
I have been in a bit of a reading slump lately, and this was exactly the kind of book I needed. It is pure comfort reading with plenty of swoon, the kind of hockey romance that is impossible to put down. I devoured it in under two days and had a smile on my face the entire time.
Darcy and Eric are fantastic together. Their chemistry is strong, their banter is fun and natural, and their dynamic just works. Eric is the kind of hero you cannot help but fall for, charming, supportive, and completely gone for Darcy. Watching their relationship unfold was such a joy. Both characters carry family baggage, and while I would have loved a bit more depth and resolution, especially on Darcy’s side, it never took away from how much I enjoyed their story.
Big Stick Energy is a strong and satisfying sophomore installment and a perfect pick for hockey romance fans. I am already eagerly awaiting DeLuca’s book. Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I have been in a bit of a reading slump lately, and this was exactly the kind of book I needed. It is pure comfort reading with plenty of swoon, the kind of hockey romance that is impossible to put down. I devoured it in under two days and had a smile on my face the entire time.
Darcy and Eric are fantastic together. Their chemistry is strong, their banter is fun and natural, and their dynamic just works. Eric is the kind of hero you cannot help but fall for, charming, supportive, and completely gone for Darcy. Watching their relationship unfold was such a joy. Both characters carry family baggage, and while I would have loved a bit more depth and resolution, especially on Darcy’s side, it never took away from how much I enjoyed their story.
Big Stick Energy is a strong and satisfying sophomore installment and a perfect pick for hockey romance fans. I am already eagerly awaiting DeLuca’s book. Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Big Stick Energy is book two in the New York Legends series but can be read as a standalone. This book hooked me from the start. Though Darcy and Eric have worked together for a while, her as admin for the GM of the hockey team and he as a pro hockey player, it isn't until Darcy inadvertently sends him a message she thought she was sending to her friend, that things between them take a turn. It seems like they have both been harboring a bit of a secret crush. They agree to attend a wedding together as friends, but Eric turns it into a fake dating situation which makes the two of them get even closer.
I adored both Eric and Darcy. They both seemed like genuine good people I would want to know in real life. I loved how protective Eric was of Darcy and you could feel their chemistry through the pages. Darcy deserved so much better than what she got in terms of her family.
The writing was engaging, funny and I was fully invested in every page of the book. I love the hockey world this author has created and truly did not want the story to end. This author is definitely one of my go to authors as I know her books will always have the best characters, an amazing story and some spice and Big Stick Energy was no exception.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I adored both Eric and Darcy. They both seemed like genuine good people I would want to know in real life. I loved how protective Eric was of Darcy and you could feel their chemistry through the pages. Darcy deserved so much better than what she got in terms of her family.
The writing was engaging, funny and I was fully invested in every page of the book. I love the hockey world this author has created and truly did not want the story to end. This author is definitely one of my go to authors as I know her books will always have the best characters, an amazing story and some spice and Big Stick Energy was no exception.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Obsessed! Big Stick Energy by Sarina Bowen was a sweet and swoony hockey romance that I absolutely devoured from start to finish. I couldn’t get enough of Darcy and Eric’s fake dating to so much more romance. From Darcy’s accidental proposition of DM to their coincidental same wedding happenstance, these two were definitely meant to be. Darcy’s conflicted complexities with her feelings for Eric and her twisted background with her dad had me rooting so hard for this woman to get all the things she rightfully deserved. Eric’s haunting past and his eagerness to be everyone’s rock was admirable. However, I loved when he let his guard down and went after his true desires and feelings for Darcy. The chemistry between these two was magnetic and made my heart so damn happy!
Overall, I loved this book. If you are a fan of a workplace romance with a hot hunky hockey captain, a dedicated hardworking admin to the GM, secret crushes revealed, reliable best friends, fake dating, annoying step siblings, daddy issues, connections from the past, dancing competitions, wedding dates, fancy hotels, hotel steamy times, intimate conversations, revealing truths, love declarations, and a HEA that will melt your heart, then you will love Darcy and Eric’s story. I always look forward to more from Sarina Bowen.
Overall, I loved this book. If you are a fan of a workplace romance with a hot hunky hockey captain, a dedicated hardworking admin to the GM, secret crushes revealed, reliable best friends, fake dating, annoying step siblings, daddy issues, connections from the past, dancing competitions, wedding dates, fancy hotels, hotel steamy times, intimate conversations, revealing truths, love declarations, and a HEA that will melt your heart, then you will love Darcy and Eric’s story. I always look forward to more from Sarina Bowen.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If Sarina Bowen writes a hockey romance novel, there's a 100% chance I'm going to read it. Bowen is a force in the romance community, and in a sea of hockey romance, her books stand out.
Whether I'm reading about the Brooklyn Bruisers or Bombshells, the Colorado Cougars, or the New York Legends, I am here for whatever story Bowen is ready to tell.
This book is the second in the Legends series and features team Captain Eric Tremaine and the GM's right hand/assistant Darcy Kendrick. After Darcy accidently sends a message about Eric to Eric instead of sending it to her best friend, there's a slight bit of awkwardness. But then the two begin a fake relationship-with-real-benefits scenario that is nice and steamy and highly entertaining.
This book has distinct vacation vibes. However, while there's less gametime than in some of Bowen's other books, readers still get plenty of team dynamics and interactions with other series stars.
I enjoyed Darcy and Eric's story. Both characters seemed relatable and incredibly likeable. Both have incredibly complicated family dynamics and demanding jobs. I loved the way they were able to be there for each other and the natural progression from fake relationship to real feelings.
I'm eager for more in this series.
4.5 stars
I received a review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Whether I'm reading about the Brooklyn Bruisers or Bombshells, the Colorado Cougars, or the New York Legends, I am here for whatever story Bowen is ready to tell.
This book is the second in the Legends series and features team Captain Eric Tremaine and the GM's right hand/assistant Darcy Kendrick. After Darcy accidently sends a message about Eric to Eric instead of sending it to her best friend, there's a slight bit of awkwardness. But then the two begin a fake relationship-with-real-benefits scenario that is nice and steamy and highly entertaining.
This book has distinct vacation vibes. However, while there's less gametime than in some of Bowen's other books, readers still get plenty of team dynamics and interactions with other series stars.
I enjoyed Darcy and Eric's story. Both characters seemed relatable and incredibly likeable. Both have incredibly complicated family dynamics and demanding jobs. I loved the way they were able to be there for each other and the natural progression from fake relationship to real feelings.
I'm eager for more in this series.
4.5 stars
I received a review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
New York Legends Captain, Eric, has had a crush on Darcy, the team manager’s administrative assistant for ages, but didn’t think she would give him the time of day until she accidentally sends an instagram message about him to him instead of her friend. The two learn they will be attending the same wedding and decide they will be each others dates to help put a buffer between themselves and their respective families. The wedding becomes the perfect place to act on their feelings but the real world awaits once the weekend si over.
I enjoyed the previous book in this series and therefore was looking forward to this one. I’m not a big fan of fake dating but it worked for me in this situation because it wasn’t over the top and both parties were full beneficiaries. I did find all of the family drama to be a bit over the top and literally none of it really got resolved, which I found frustrating. I really like Eric and Darcy together. They had great chemistry and were a very equal pairing. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. For those looking for a true hockey romance, this is not the book for you, as it happens almost entirely in the off season.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed the previous book in this series and therefore was looking forward to this one. I’m not a big fan of fake dating but it worked for me in this situation because it wasn’t over the top and both parties were full beneficiaries. I did find all of the family drama to be a bit over the top and literally none of it really got resolved, which I found frustrating. I really like Eric and Darcy together. They had great chemistry and were a very equal pairing. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. For those looking for a true hockey romance, this is not the book for you, as it happens almost entirely in the off season.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 25, 2026
3.5 stars.
I absolutely loved the first book on this standalone series, but this one wasn’t as good. However, I still enjoyed my time reading about Eric and Darcy.
Pros:
1. There were enough events to keep the story moving along
2. Eric and Darcy had natural chemistry that worked.
3. I loved the plot of fake dating but it didn’t feel out of the blue or forced.
Cons:
1. I know Tessa was supposed to be annoying, but it ruined parts of the book for me. Plus there was no resolution between her and Tessa. I would have liked that. I’m just praying Tessa doesn’t get her own redemption novel, because I won’t read that.
2. I felt the book went on too long. The miscommunication at the end should have been quicker because I found myself not enjoying the last 15%.
3. Eric’s mother and Darcy’s mother…good lord. These women need therapy. Enough said.
Ultimately, this was a good book. I just found some characters to be beyond annoying. I think the first chunk was amazing, and as long as the next book doesn’t involve Tessa I’m reading it!
*_An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely loved the first book on this standalone series, but this one wasn’t as good. However, I still enjoyed my time reading about Eric and Darcy.
Pros:
1. There were enough events to keep the story moving along
2. Eric and Darcy had natural chemistry that worked.
3. I loved the plot of fake dating but it didn’t feel out of the blue or forced.
Cons:
1. I know Tessa was supposed to be annoying, but it ruined parts of the book for me. Plus there was no resolution between her and Tessa. I would have liked that. I’m just praying Tessa doesn’t get her own redemption novel, because I won’t read that.
2. I felt the book went on too long. The miscommunication at the end should have been quicker because I found myself not enjoying the last 15%.
3. Eric’s mother and Darcy’s mother…good lord. These women need therapy. Enough said.
Ultimately, this was a good book. I just found some characters to be beyond annoying. I think the first chunk was amazing, and as long as the next book doesn’t involve Tessa I’m reading it!
*_An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2026
We stan “Brooklynaire” and Bingley in this house, but I think this is my favorite Sarina Bowen book featuring an actual hockey player. I have a hard time keeping focus while reading these days, but this one had me sat from beginning to end. (Have I used enough lingo to sound like one of the rookies yet?)
Darcy and Eric are the exact brand of escapist joy we need right now, while also working through some pretty serious issues in both of their families. The evolution of their relationship was great, and the conflicts of the team captain dating the GM’s assistant well handled.
I should probably think the relationship between Darcy and her boss is toxic, but their banter is delightful, and only underscored how strong she is.
The banter between the players is also top tier. All around, just such a fun read that I can see myself picking up again and again if I’m having a bad day.
This is the second in a series. “Thrown For a Loop” is also a fabulous book, but not strictly necessary to have read beforehand.
Thank you to Forever for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Darcy and Eric are the exact brand of escapist joy we need right now, while also working through some pretty serious issues in both of their families. The evolution of their relationship was great, and the conflicts of the team captain dating the GM’s assistant well handled.
I should probably think the relationship between Darcy and her boss is toxic, but their banter is delightful, and only underscored how strong she is.
The banter between the players is also top tier. All around, just such a fun read that I can see myself picking up again and again if I’m having a bad day.
This is the second in a series. “Thrown For a Loop” is also a fabulous book, but not strictly necessary to have read beforehand.
Thank you to Forever for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is such a fun fake dating romance but it also has some trigger warnings around a deceased sibling and a fraught parental relationship (for both main characters actually). I loved it though. Darcy is the assistant to the GM of a hockey team with a crush on the star captain. When she accidentally sends a spicy DM to him thinking she’s really just joking with a friend, she’s humiliated but he’s intrigued…and when he realizes that they both need a date to the same wedding and help navigating their challenging family relationships, he suggests they fake date for the duration of the lengthy wedding festivities. She’s got a crush on him though, and he’s got one on her despite never really dating. When it’s time to go their separate ways, he realizes that’s really not want he wants at all.
I really enjoyed this. My only complaint was that I wish Darcy had more of a reckoning with her father at the end — it felt like their challenging relationship was a major component of the book but I never saw them have the conversation I would have liked for them to have. The hockey romance, however, was excellent!
Thanks to Forever and NetGalley for the ARC!
I really enjoyed this. My only complaint was that I wish Darcy had more of a reckoning with her father at the end — it felt like their challenging relationship was a major component of the book but I never saw them have the conversation I would have liked for them to have. The hockey romance, however, was excellent!
Thanks to Forever and NetGalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a fun, easy hockey romance, but it didn’t totally blow me away and I did not like it as much as the first book in the series, Thrown For a Loop. The fake dating setup during wedding season is a classic for a reason, and Sarina Bowen definitely knows how to make it entertaining. Darcy was bubbly, chaotic, and hardworking in a way that made her easy to root for, and Eric had that broody, emotionally guarded hockey captain vibe down perfectly. Their chemistry was solid, and the banter was pretty good.
The story itself felt pretty predictable though. Once the fake dating started, a lot of it played out exactly how you’d expect, and some of the wedding scenes began to blur together. I also wished we got a bit more depth from Eric’s emotional arc because while it was there, it felt slightly rushed compared to Darcy’s development.
It was and enjoyable and cozy read with some heat and heart, but it didn’t quite stand out from other hockey romances in the genre. A good pick if you love fake dating and sports romance, just don’t expect anything wildly new.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sarina Bowen, and Forever for the eARC of this book.
The story itself felt pretty predictable though. Once the fake dating started, a lot of it played out exactly how you’d expect, and some of the wedding scenes began to blur together. I also wished we got a bit more depth from Eric’s emotional arc because while it was there, it felt slightly rushed compared to Darcy’s development.
It was and enjoyable and cozy read with some heat and heart, but it didn’t quite stand out from other hockey romances in the genre. A good pick if you love fake dating and sports romance, just don’t expect anything wildly new.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sarina Bowen, and Forever for the eARC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
After an accidental DM, Darcy and Eric discover they’re both invited to the same wedding. Coming from dysfunctional families, they decide to attend as a fake couple and that’s when the fun and chaotic wedding weekend begins💞
This book made me giggle so much, especially whenever Darcy and Sharp were together. Their dynamic is iconic, and I absolutely need that kind of energy in my life 🤭
Darcy and Eric’s relationship was adorable and heartfelt. Both carry emotional baggage from their families, but they truly get each other. They feel like anchors for one another, grounding each other when family chaos hits and learning that they can’t control how others act. I loved watching them discover when to hold on and when to let go ❤️🩹
The pacing flowed so naturally, and I really appreciated how both Darcy and Eric started prioritizing themselves instead of always catering to others. I’m genuinely sad their story is over 🥹 I’d love to read more about them, especially if Darcy goes off on Tessa again. I would love that scene 🤭
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the eARC!
This book made me giggle so much, especially whenever Darcy and Sharp were together. Their dynamic is iconic, and I absolutely need that kind of energy in my life 🤭
Darcy and Eric’s relationship was adorable and heartfelt. Both carry emotional baggage from their families, but they truly get each other. They feel like anchors for one another, grounding each other when family chaos hits and learning that they can’t control how others act. I loved watching them discover when to hold on and when to let go ❤️🩹
The pacing flowed so naturally, and I really appreciated how both Darcy and Eric started prioritizing themselves instead of always catering to others. I’m genuinely sad their story is over 🥹 I’d love to read more about them, especially if Darcy goes off on Tessa again. I would love that scene 🤭
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the eARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Big Stick Energy was such a good time. Sarina Bowen honestly remains an auto-read for me, and this one reminded me why. I flew through it and didn’t want to put it down.
The fake-dating trope works so well here. It feels fun and intentional, not forced. The banter between Darcy and Eric is sharp, flirty, and genuinely funny. Their conversations are one of the highlights of the book.
Eric is such a sweet male lead. Quietly supportive. Emotionally aware. Confident without being overbearing. Very much a “green flag” MMC. Darcy is equally strong. She’s capable, overworked, sarcastic, and very relatable. I loved how real she felt, especially in the way she juggles responsibility, family chaos, and her own feelings.
Their relationship develops in a really natural way. It doesn’t jump from fake to intense overnight. You can feel the shift. The small moments matter. Lingering looks. Easy comfort. Real emotional connection. That made everything land so much better.
The side characters are also great. Fun. Distinct. They add humor and warmth without taking over the story.
Overall, this book is funny, warm, and emotionally grounded. Great banter. Strong characters. A genuinely sweet romance with depth. Another solid Sarina Bowen win, and an easy recommendation for anyone who loves sports romance and fake dating done right.
The fake-dating trope works so well here. It feels fun and intentional, not forced. The banter between Darcy and Eric is sharp, flirty, and genuinely funny. Their conversations are one of the highlights of the book.
Eric is such a sweet male lead. Quietly supportive. Emotionally aware. Confident without being overbearing. Very much a “green flag” MMC. Darcy is equally strong. She’s capable, overworked, sarcastic, and very relatable. I loved how real she felt, especially in the way she juggles responsibility, family chaos, and her own feelings.
Their relationship develops in a really natural way. It doesn’t jump from fake to intense overnight. You can feel the shift. The small moments matter. Lingering looks. Easy comfort. Real emotional connection. That made everything land so much better.
The side characters are also great. Fun. Distinct. They add humor and warmth without taking over the story.
Overall, this book is funny, warm, and emotionally grounded. Great banter. Strong characters. A genuinely sweet romance with depth. Another solid Sarina Bowen win, and an easy recommendation for anyone who loves sports romance and fake dating done right.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the second book in the NY Legends series and I loved this one even more than the first. I love hockey romance so when I had the opportunity to read an early copy I couldn’t pass it up. Add in that we were snowed in for the weekend, it made the perfect read.
Darcy is the organized admin for the hockey team and Eric is the affable captain who is usually doling out advice to his teammates. When Darcy accidentally sends a DM to, Eric they begin to see each other in a different light. This one has a ton of my favorite romance tropes- workplace romance, fake dating, forced proximity and more. And it must be said that Eric is the biggest cinnamon roll, omg! This makes for the sweetest romance. I highly recommend this series and while I think this installment would be safe as a standalone, I think it would be enjoyed best read in order.
Thank you to Forever for the opportunity to read an early copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Darcy is the organized admin for the hockey team and Eric is the affable captain who is usually doling out advice to his teammates. When Darcy accidentally sends a DM to, Eric they begin to see each other in a different light. This one has a ton of my favorite romance tropes- workplace romance, fake dating, forced proximity and more. And it must be said that Eric is the biggest cinnamon roll, omg! This makes for the sweetest romance. I highly recommend this series and while I think this installment would be safe as a standalone, I think it would be enjoyed best read in order.
Thank you to Forever for the opportunity to read an early copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 30, 2026
4.25 ⭐️
Really enjoyed this book more than the first.
I’m always a sucker for fake dating and thought this book did it well! Darcy and Eric certainly have their family troubles but I was really captivated by their situations and how they both reacted to them.
I really enjoyed Darcy’s character. Her family was so unfair to her but she is just resilient. Her relationship with Sharp, the team’s GM, was also so funny. I also really liked Eric. A golden retriever guy but really does have a good heart.
A few too many Taylor Swift references (and that’s considering I’m a fan) and some cringe spicy talk knocked this down a bit for me and I thought the third act breakup went on a littleeeee too long. I wish there had been a little more resolution between Darcy and her father/sister but I was so glad when Eric stood up for Darcy even when they weren’t together.
Thank you to Sarina Bowen and Forever for the ARC!
Really enjoyed this book more than the first.
I’m always a sucker for fake dating and thought this book did it well! Darcy and Eric certainly have their family troubles but I was really captivated by their situations and how they both reacted to them.
I really enjoyed Darcy’s character. Her family was so unfair to her but she is just resilient. Her relationship with Sharp, the team’s GM, was also so funny. I also really liked Eric. A golden retriever guy but really does have a good heart.
A few too many Taylor Swift references (and that’s considering I’m a fan) and some cringe spicy talk knocked this down a bit for me and I thought the third act breakup went on a littleeeee too long. I wish there had been a little more resolution between Darcy and her father/sister but I was so glad when Eric stood up for Darcy even when they weren’t together.
Thank you to Sarina Bowen and Forever for the ARC!
January 28, 2026
Arc review
Golden Retriever MMC
2.5 🌶️
Fake dating
Family drama
Beachy/summer vibes
This was so cute! My hands down favorite part was the great communication from the MMC. I always feel flustered by two characters who aren’t saying what needs to be said but at least we got solid chatter out of Eric. Even the reasons to “not be together” were pretty understandable and were more so a misunderstanding rather than miscommunication (idk those feel different to me).
I felt this was really well done. The banter was good, the characters well defined, the plot mildly realistic (for a hockey romance story), an appealing spice level. I even related to the side plots a lot! The family drama was pretty intriguing itself.
The first installment of this series did not leave me wanting for more (it was fine but forgettable) but not I am so excited for Delucas story!
Golden Retriever MMC
2.5 🌶️
Fake dating
Family drama
Beachy/summer vibes
This was so cute! My hands down favorite part was the great communication from the MMC. I always feel flustered by two characters who aren’t saying what needs to be said but at least we got solid chatter out of Eric. Even the reasons to “not be together” were pretty understandable and were more so a misunderstanding rather than miscommunication (idk those feel different to me).
I felt this was really well done. The banter was good, the characters well defined, the plot mildly realistic (for a hockey romance story), an appealing spice level. I even related to the side plots a lot! The family drama was pretty intriguing itself.
The first installment of this series did not leave me wanting for more (it was fine but forgettable) but not I am so excited for Delucas story!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.75⭐️ | 2🌶️ (fade to black)
thank you to forever for the widget! i really enjoyed thrown for a loop, so when this showed up in my inbox, i dove in right away.
darcy and eric were a really fun pair. eric is our golden retriever MMC who’s aggressive when it matters, and while i did love his character, i still found myself wanting a little more depth from him by the end.
the banter was easily my favorite part. between the main couple and the side characters, there were so many moments that had me smiling and quietly giggling 🤭
there isn’t as much actual hockey in this one since the story mainly takes place during the off-season, but overall this was cute, funny, and easy to read. a perfect palate cleanser!
what to expect:
- pro hockey captain x team admin
- fake dating (wedding date)
- golden retriever MMC
- family drama
- death of a family member (in the past)
thank you to forever for the widget! i really enjoyed thrown for a loop, so when this showed up in my inbox, i dove in right away.
darcy and eric were a really fun pair. eric is our golden retriever MMC who’s aggressive when it matters, and while i did love his character, i still found myself wanting a little more depth from him by the end.
the banter was easily my favorite part. between the main couple and the side characters, there were so many moments that had me smiling and quietly giggling 🤭
there isn’t as much actual hockey in this one since the story mainly takes place during the off-season, but overall this was cute, funny, and easy to read. a perfect palate cleanser!
what to expect:
- pro hockey captain x team admin
- fake dating (wedding date)
- golden retriever MMC
- family drama
- death of a family member (in the past)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Note: This review is for an ARC and is my unbiased opinion.
Big Stick Energy was one of those books I didn't want to end. It was so fun to read. Darcy and Eric were adorable. They had mutual secret crushes on each other and the way that factored into their foray into fake dating was highly entertaining. The reason for them faking it made for so many hilarious and heartwarming moments. Darcy and Eric got real with each, messy emotions and all. I loved their connection and how things played out for them. Eric's teammates added to the fun with their random needs from their Captain. Both of their tumultuous family situations added the drama. Darcy and Eric's HEA was one I couldn't wait for while also the book would be 600 pages just to get more time with them. The next book in this series can't get here soon enough - I need more of all of these characters!
Big Stick Energy was one of those books I didn't want to end. It was so fun to read. Darcy and Eric were adorable. They had mutual secret crushes on each other and the way that factored into their foray into fake dating was highly entertaining. The reason for them faking it made for so many hilarious and heartwarming moments. Darcy and Eric got real with each, messy emotions and all. I loved their connection and how things played out for them. Eric's teammates added to the fun with their random needs from their Captain. Both of their tumultuous family situations added the drama. Darcy and Eric's HEA was one I couldn't wait for while also the book would be 600 pages just to get more time with them. The next book in this series can't get here soon enough - I need more of all of these characters!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another fun hockey romance by Sarina Bowen. I really enjoyed the fake dating trope between Darcy (team’s admin) and Eric (team’s captain). The main characters had good banter and I loved all the wedding shenanigans. Eric was the best; he gave big cinnamon roll vibes! Loved the chats and bonding with his teammates. It was interesting to see each of their family backgrounds and how that contributed to their personalities. Overall this a great read with fun banter, team bonding, fake dating, and family drama. Looking forward to book 3.
Thank you NetGalley, Forever Grand Central Publishing, and Sarina Bowen for my eArc. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
“I’ve avoided entanglements for years. But all I want now is to be entangled with you.”
I was so excited for Eric and Darcy’s story! Hockey player and team admin finding their way into a fake relationship? Sign me up!
These two clearly have some family baggage but I loved how they were able to handle each other’s in ways they couldn’t handle their own. Sometimes you need the outside perspective to help see the light! And even if Darcy’s crush brought them together it’s clear that Eric had always been thinking about her too.
These two were great couple for this series and I am so excited for who is coming next!
🔥: “Watch, honey. This is your punishment.”
I was so excited for Eric and Darcy’s story! Hockey player and team admin finding their way into a fake relationship? Sign me up!
These two clearly have some family baggage but I loved how they were able to handle each other’s in ways they couldn’t handle their own. Sometimes you need the outside perspective to help see the light! And even if Darcy’s crush brought them together it’s clear that Eric had always been thinking about her too.
These two were great couple for this series and I am so excited for who is coming next!
🔥: “Watch, honey. This is your punishment.”
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I thoroughly enjoyed Sarina Bowen's last novel, "Thrown for a Loop" and was eagerly awaiting Darcy and Eric's story!
Darcy is such a sassy firecracker and Eric is just one lovable cinnamon roll MMC. Together, the pair of them make the ultimate feel good read.
"Big Stick Energy" is one of those books I binged in a day and I was mad at myself when I finished because I wanted more of them!
If you're looking for a fade to black hockey romcom, this book is one you won't want to pass up! Can't wait for Bowen's next novel!
5/5 Stars
All opinions are my own. Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the ARC!
Darcy is such a sassy firecracker and Eric is just one lovable cinnamon roll MMC. Together, the pair of them make the ultimate feel good read.
"Big Stick Energy" is one of those books I binged in a day and I was mad at myself when I finished because I wanted more of them!
If you're looking for a fade to black hockey romcom, this book is one you won't want to pass up! Can't wait for Bowen's next novel!
5/5 Stars
All opinions are my own. Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the ARC!
January 26, 2026
oh my goodness, i loved this book so much. eric and darcy were adorable and i enjoyed their whole story. darcy was so great and i loved her character, she really was a strong person and her growth throughout the book was so perfect. eric the sweetest man, i am obsessed with him. both of their family trauma was honestly so sad and i cant believe how much they had to go through but am so glad with how it brought them closer. i absolutely loved the ending and can’t wait for the next book! so grateful for the early copy and definitely recommend reading!! you are gonna love eric and darcy!!
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