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The Final Score
Not yet published
Expected 7 Jul 26A hockey player and a grad student are on thin ice until they meet their match in this sexy romance by USA Today bestselling author Lana Ferguson.
Jack Baker is on top of the world now that he’s back on the rink where he belongs. But the high comes crashing down when he reinjures his arm immediately following his return to the ice, and this time, he might never be able to play again. After a lifetime as the strong, happy hockey guy whose sister needed him, Jack is left questioning everything he knows about himself.
Abigail Thompson feels like she’s hit rock bottom. It’s only been a few months since the massive scandal that finally severed the cord between her and her narcissistic father. And now, in her last weeks of grad school, she’s been kicked out of her building with very short notice. The last thing she wants to do is ask her half-brother for help after what she’s put him through, but it’s looking like his best friend’s spare room might be her only choice.
Jack is flighty, flirty, and a little full of himself—all the things Abby’s learned to avoid in men. However, spending every day together breaks the ice between them, and she starts to realize that Jack might not be who he seems. It’s possible that maybe, just maybe, he might be struggling as much as she is. Soon, confiding in each other leads to falling into bed, and this fling will either play with their hearts—or score them the ultimate goal of love.
Jack Baker is on top of the world now that he’s back on the rink where he belongs. But the high comes crashing down when he reinjures his arm immediately following his return to the ice, and this time, he might never be able to play again. After a lifetime as the strong, happy hockey guy whose sister needed him, Jack is left questioning everything he knows about himself.
Abigail Thompson feels like she’s hit rock bottom. It’s only been a few months since the massive scandal that finally severed the cord between her and her narcissistic father. And now, in her last weeks of grad school, she’s been kicked out of her building with very short notice. The last thing she wants to do is ask her half-brother for help after what she’s put him through, but it’s looking like his best friend’s spare room might be her only choice.
Jack is flighty, flirty, and a little full of himself—all the things Abby’s learned to avoid in men. However, spending every day together breaks the ice between them, and she starts to realize that Jack might not be who he seems. It’s possible that maybe, just maybe, he might be struggling as much as she is. Soon, confiding in each other leads to falling into bed, and this fling will either play with their hearts—or score them the ultimate goal of love.
384 pages, Paperback
Expected publication July 7, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
firstly, thank you to the publisher for an arc!
lana ferguson is one of my favorite romance authors; she’s just such a fun and quirky writer, but my favorite book of hers will forever be the fake mate✨
i cannot believe that i'm seeing lana ferguson on tour in july!! i cannot wait to meet her and hear her discuss the final score!! and possibly hear about her upcoming projects💖
the final score is a standalone hockey romance novel but follows jack and abby, two characters that appeared in the game changer, and are also siblings to the couple dee and ian from the first book.
this was a fun and sexy romance novel and perfect for those that enjoy forced proximity, enemies to roommates to lovers, and especially having those smutty scenes early🙂↕️✨
lana ferguson is one of my favorite romance authors; she’s just such a fun and quirky writer, but my favorite book of hers will forever be the fake mate✨
i cannot believe that i'm seeing lana ferguson on tour in july!! i cannot wait to meet her and hear her discuss the final score!! and possibly hear about her upcoming projects💖
the final score is a standalone hockey romance novel but follows jack and abby, two characters that appeared in the game changer, and are also siblings to the couple dee and ian from the first book.
this was a fun and sexy romance novel and perfect for those that enjoy forced proximity, enemies to roommates to lovers, and especially having those smutty scenes early🙂↕️✨
Currently Reading
June 19, 2026𝗽𝗿𝗲-𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 ❀*･ if Lana Ferguson writes it i'm gonna read it
thank you so much Berkley for my eARC!
thank you so much Berkley for my eARC!
Want to Read
January 3, 2026I can't with the bare dogs on the cover but its going on my tbr anyways
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
✨🏒 The Final Score 🏒✨
Lana Ferguson will always be an auto buy author for me. She just knows how to write a romance 🥰😍💖
This hockey romance was so cute! I devoured this in one sitting because it was that good. And Jack? I really freaking loved him. Easily one of my favorite MMCs.
I am going to need the audiobook asap when it releases!
💖 What to Expect
• Hockey player MMC
• Grad student FMC
• Forced proximity
• Hurt x comfort
• Friends to lovers
_ _ _ _
📅 Pub Date: July 7, 2026
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group, Berkley, and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
Lana Ferguson will always be an auto buy author for me. She just knows how to write a romance 🥰😍💖
This hockey romance was so cute! I devoured this in one sitting because it was that good. And Jack? I really freaking loved him. Easily one of my favorite MMCs.
I am going to need the audiobook asap when it releases!
💖 What to Expect
• Hockey player MMC
• Grad student FMC
• Forced proximity
• Hurt x comfort
• Friends to lovers
_ _ _ _
📅 Pub Date: July 7, 2026
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group, Berkley, and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
June 1, 2026
4.5 ★
I have been waiting for this book to come out for so long. Every teaser that Lana posts has been torture! I’m beyond grateful to Netgalley and Berkley for entrusting me with an ARC! Truly a dream come true!
This was exactly what I needed it to be. I loved Jack’s character so much in The Game Changer and getting to know him on a deeper level in his own book was so special. He’s the funny social butterfly who is always down for a good time. But what people don’t realize is that he’s so much more than that. He has his own struggles and anxieties getting to explore that side of him meant so much to me. As someone who has only recently been dealing with medicated anxiety, I understand Jack’s feelings on a deeper personal level. I thought it was so incredibly important to show all those sides of him. Lana did a terrific job of not shying away from the difficult parts of life and I’m so grateful for it.
and Abby! oh sweet amazing baddie Abby! Like Jack, she also puts on a mask to hide her own pain and insecurities. Instead of playful banter, she comes across as grumpy and tough. But beneath that hard exterior, she’s got a heart of gold.
Jack and Abby were truly such a perfect match. And their chemistry?? off the charts!! Lana, truly some of your best spicy work!
I cannot emphasize enough what it means to be able to read this book early!
Thank you again to Netgalley and Berkley! and of course thank you Lana for blessing us with another amazing read!
Everyone be sure to check out The Final Score out on July 7th!!!
I have been waiting for this book to come out for so long. Every teaser that Lana posts has been torture! I’m beyond grateful to Netgalley and Berkley for entrusting me with an ARC! Truly a dream come true!
This was exactly what I needed it to be. I loved Jack’s character so much in The Game Changer and getting to know him on a deeper level in his own book was so special. He’s the funny social butterfly who is always down for a good time. But what people don’t realize is that he’s so much more than that. He has his own struggles and anxieties getting to explore that side of him meant so much to me. As someone who has only recently been dealing with medicated anxiety, I understand Jack’s feelings on a deeper personal level. I thought it was so incredibly important to show all those sides of him. Lana did a terrific job of not shying away from the difficult parts of life and I’m so grateful for it.
and Abby! oh sweet amazing baddie Abby! Like Jack, she also puts on a mask to hide her own pain and insecurities. Instead of playful banter, she comes across as grumpy and tough. But beneath that hard exterior, she’s got a heart of gold.
Jack and Abby were truly such a perfect match. And their chemistry?? off the charts!! Lana, truly some of your best spicy work!
I cannot emphasize enough what it means to be able to read this book early!
Thank you again to Netgalley and Berkley! and of course thank you Lana for blessing us with another amazing read!
Everyone be sure to check out The Final Score out on July 7th!!!
May 1, 2026
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Final Score is a warm, funny, and surprisingly emotionally layered hockey romance that kept me turning pages well past my bedtime. Lana Ferguson has a gift for writing characters who feel genuinely real, and Jack and Abby are two of her best.
Jack is the golden retriever you can't help but fall for — quick with a joke, endlessly energetic, but underneath all of that sunshine he's quietly falling apart. A career-threatening reinjury forces him to confront who he is beyond hockey, and watching him slowly allow someone to see that vulnerability is where this book really shines. Abby, our grumpy black cat FMC, has her own walls built sky-high thanks to a complicated family history, and her dry wit paired with Jack's chaos made for some genuinely laugh-out-loud banter.
What sets this one apart from a lot of sports romances is the emotional depth Ferguson brings to both leads. The mental health rep, especially around anxiety and self-worth, felt honest and handled with real care, not just used as plot decoration. The forced proximity/roommates setup was well-executed, letting their connection build organically rather than feeling rushed.
My only note is that the pacing in the early-to-middle section leans into the physical relationship a little quickly, and I would have loved slightly more slow-burn tension before they got there. A bit more yearning would have made an already great romance even more satisfying.
Overall, this is a really solid, emotionally resonant read that earns its romance. If you enjoy grumpy/sunshine dynamics, forced proximity, and heroes who fall first and fall hard, this one is absolutely worth your time. I'll be recommending it all summer.
The Final Score is a warm, funny, and surprisingly emotionally layered hockey romance that kept me turning pages well past my bedtime. Lana Ferguson has a gift for writing characters who feel genuinely real, and Jack and Abby are two of her best.
Jack is the golden retriever you can't help but fall for — quick with a joke, endlessly energetic, but underneath all of that sunshine he's quietly falling apart. A career-threatening reinjury forces him to confront who he is beyond hockey, and watching him slowly allow someone to see that vulnerability is where this book really shines. Abby, our grumpy black cat FMC, has her own walls built sky-high thanks to a complicated family history, and her dry wit paired with Jack's chaos made for some genuinely laugh-out-loud banter.
What sets this one apart from a lot of sports romances is the emotional depth Ferguson brings to both leads. The mental health rep, especially around anxiety and self-worth, felt honest and handled with real care, not just used as plot decoration. The forced proximity/roommates setup was well-executed, letting their connection build organically rather than feeling rushed.
My only note is that the pacing in the early-to-middle section leans into the physical relationship a little quickly, and I would have loved slightly more slow-burn tension before they got there. A bit more yearning would have made an already great romance even more satisfying.
Overall, this is a really solid, emotionally resonant read that earns its romance. If you enjoy grumpy/sunshine dynamics, forced proximity, and heroes who fall first and fall hard, this one is absolutely worth your time. I'll be recommending it all summer.
June 5, 2026
I DECIDED I WAS TOO NICE BELOW. AFTER FURTHER PROCESSING: 3 stars bc literally any time there was a spice scene my face did this: 😬🥴
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I am leaning toward a 3.5⭐️
it was a very fun listen, I was giggling left and right! sometimes you just need an unserious read!!!
—————————————————————————————
I am leaning toward a 3.5⭐️
it was a very fun listen, I was giggling left and right! sometimes you just need an unserious read!!!
January 22, 2026
I relate to Jack so much in this book! Thank you Lana for writing him and sharing him with the world. Abby was also a delight and it was so heartwarming to see her walls come down!
June 19, 2026
Sugar and spice. The CLASSIC Lana Ferguson ingredients.
True to form, this book packs some HEAT. Like, extra spicy, oh they’re at it again?!, wouldn’t want my mom to read spice. Honestly more than I normally look for, in my reads.
But it works because balancing all the 🥵 are deeply sweet, tender, heartfelt moments and character work. Jack and Abigail are both a little broken for different reasons (and Jack, literally, as he navigates a hockey injury). With that comes some great mental health rep, deeper conversations, and real opening up to the other.
Jack is also my favorite type of MMC: former playboy who is such a shit (affectionate) who is just feral for her. AND a hockey player which like, I am deeply into right now.
Add to that so many top tier tropes (brother’s best friend, forced proximity) and it’s a fun, spicey read.
🎧 I always adore Samantha Summers on a Lana Ferguson audio and she’s once again fantastic here. Nicholas Goroff matches her sooo well. Also it’s DUET and just so good, throughout.
Some of the beats I liked a little less (e.g. third act brake-up) and it didn’t hit quite as much as Lana’s stellar omegaverse stories have. I also don’t loveeee the dating siblings setup. But overall I enjoyed it.
‼️Also, one note: I really wish this were tagged as a series (elsewhere and on Goodreads). I knew Lana had written hockey romance before, but since I didn’t see this as related anywhere, I figured it was fully a standalone. I was definitely a little confused early on lacking some of the context from The Game Changer. By the time I realized they were interconnected, I was in too deep here to pivot. It works on its own but probably works a lot better if you’ve met Delilah and Ian before!
Thank you Berkley for the eARC and PRH Audio for the ALC!
3.5 ⭐️ rounded 🆙
True to form, this book packs some HEAT. Like, extra spicy, oh they’re at it again?!, wouldn’t want my mom to read spice. Honestly more than I normally look for, in my reads.
But it works because balancing all the 🥵 are deeply sweet, tender, heartfelt moments and character work. Jack and Abigail are both a little broken for different reasons (and Jack, literally, as he navigates a hockey injury). With that comes some great mental health rep, deeper conversations, and real opening up to the other.
Jack is also my favorite type of MMC: former playboy who is such a shit (affectionate) who is just feral for her. AND a hockey player which like, I am deeply into right now.
Add to that so many top tier tropes (brother’s best friend, forced proximity) and it’s a fun, spicey read.
🎧 I always adore Samantha Summers on a Lana Ferguson audio and she’s once again fantastic here. Nicholas Goroff matches her sooo well. Also it’s DUET and just so good, throughout.
Some of the beats I liked a little less (e.g. third act brake-up) and it didn’t hit quite as much as Lana’s stellar omegaverse stories have. I also don’t loveeee the dating siblings setup. But overall I enjoyed it.
‼️Also, one note: I really wish this were tagged as a series (elsewhere and on Goodreads). I knew Lana had written hockey romance before, but since I didn’t see this as related anywhere, I figured it was fully a standalone. I was definitely a little confused early on lacking some of the context from The Game Changer. By the time I realized they were interconnected, I was in too deep here to pivot. It works on its own but probably works a lot better if you’ve met Delilah and Ian before!
Thank you Berkley for the eARC and PRH Audio for the ALC!
3.5 ⭐️ rounded 🆙
May 13, 2026
*Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group, an imprint of Penguin Random House, for the free copy for review.*
Review: A riveting roommates-to-lovers romance!
“The Final Score” follows Jack Baker, a hockey player, and Abigail “Abby” Thompson, a grad student, after living under the same roof breaks the ice between them.
On top of some hilarious banter and Ferguson’s trademark spice, I loved the depth of the characters in this one! Both move in together with emotional baggage. While Abby is working through her tumultuous relationship with her father, Jack is struggling to accept what a life without playing hockey looks like. Ferguson handles the topic of mental health with care and the characters’ vulnerability reads as raw and relatable.
The roommates out of necessity plotline was phenomenal, creating the perfect amount of forced proximity for their connection to develop naturally. Spending every day together allows the two to grow closer and work through their hardships side by side. Despite Abby initially trying to keep her distance, they compliment each other perfectly and the slow build up of tension culminates in so many swoony and heartfelt moments.
The dialogue was repetitive at times and the third-act breakup felt a bit abrupt, but I still found the book enjoyable overall.
➤ 4 stars
Review cross-posted to: Book Blog | Bookstagram | Amazon
Review: A riveting roommates-to-lovers romance!
“The Final Score” follows Jack Baker, a hockey player, and Abigail “Abby” Thompson, a grad student, after living under the same roof breaks the ice between them.
On top of some hilarious banter and Ferguson’s trademark spice, I loved the depth of the characters in this one! Both move in together with emotional baggage. While Abby is working through her tumultuous relationship with her father, Jack is struggling to accept what a life without playing hockey looks like. Ferguson handles the topic of mental health with care and the characters’ vulnerability reads as raw and relatable.
The roommates out of necessity plotline was phenomenal, creating the perfect amount of forced proximity for their connection to develop naturally. Spending every day together allows the two to grow closer and work through their hardships side by side. Despite Abby initially trying to keep her distance, they compliment each other perfectly and the slow build up of tension culminates in so many swoony and heartfelt moments.
The dialogue was repetitive at times and the third-act breakup felt a bit abrupt, but I still found the book enjoyable overall.
➤ 4 stars
Review cross-posted to: Book Blog | Bookstagram | Amazon
January 29, 2026
Who, what, when, where, why.
Who cares.
What is different.
When is it over.
Where is the plot.
Why did I request this.
This is a prime example of a book that gives us nothing new or notable. These two had no chemistry and instead of building on that we just got spice. Jack was just recycling lines I’ve read too many times before and Abby’s entire personality was her daddy issues.
It felt like an endless loop: problem, vent sesh with Abby playing therapist, hookup, repeat. I speed read this just to be done.
Thanks NetGalley for the eARC.
Who cares.
What is different.
When is it over.
Where is the plot.
Why did I request this.
This is a prime example of a book that gives us nothing new or notable. These two had no chemistry and instead of building on that we just got spice. Jack was just recycling lines I’ve read too many times before and Abby’s entire personality was her daddy issues.
It felt like an endless loop: problem, vent sesh with Abby playing therapist, hookup, repeat. I speed read this just to be done.
Thanks NetGalley for the eARC.
April 29, 2026
I have no shame in admitting I was feral for this book. Lana Ferguson is an auto-buy author for me. And as soon as I heard Jack and Abby were getting their own book, immediate grabby hands activated. So right off the bat big thank you to NetGalley & Berkley Publishing for giving me a ARC to read and review.
A little back story for those who don’t know. Technically The Final Score is the second book in this duology. We meet Jack & Abby as the siblings to the FMC/MMC in The Game Changers. I knew as soon as I met both in book one that they needed their own story. And I’m so pumped that Lana graced us with their amazing heartfelt journey. So with that in mind I know the publishers will say you can read this as a standalone. However, I disagree so take my advice and read The Game Changers first. It’s important you learn about Jack & Abby’s backstory before you meet them front and center in their own book.
Now that we got my disclaimers out of the way. The best part the review! And I’ll get straight to the point I freaking loved this book. Honestly I think I loved it more than the first one. Jack & Abby are both phenomenal relatable characters. They both have their traumas they are working through and they bring the absolute best out of each other.
Jack, hands down is one of my all-time favorite Lana Ferguson men. When I tell you that boy is down bad for Abby, it’s no joke. On top of that he’s such a golden retriever boyfriend and I’m all here for it. What I absolutely love most about him and his relationship with Abby is he doesn’t have to put up a facade with her. The world sees him as the joking funny guy. But Abby gives him the strength to bring down his walls and be his most genuine self.
Then we Abby. This girl has been through the absolute ringer. But I have so much respect for how strong and resilient her character is. To top it off the girl is absolutely hilarious her banter with Jack had me giggling the entire way through.
Overall, I can’t recommend this book enough Lana has truly done it again. And I can’t wait to own a trophy copy when it releases later this summer!
A little back story for those who don’t know. Technically The Final Score is the second book in this duology. We meet Jack & Abby as the siblings to the FMC/MMC in The Game Changers. I knew as soon as I met both in book one that they needed their own story. And I’m so pumped that Lana graced us with their amazing heartfelt journey. So with that in mind I know the publishers will say you can read this as a standalone. However, I disagree so take my advice and read The Game Changers first. It’s important you learn about Jack & Abby’s backstory before you meet them front and center in their own book.
Now that we got my disclaimers out of the way. The best part the review! And I’ll get straight to the point I freaking loved this book. Honestly I think I loved it more than the first one. Jack & Abby are both phenomenal relatable characters. They both have their traumas they are working through and they bring the absolute best out of each other.
Jack, hands down is one of my all-time favorite Lana Ferguson men. When I tell you that boy is down bad for Abby, it’s no joke. On top of that he’s such a golden retriever boyfriend and I’m all here for it. What I absolutely love most about him and his relationship with Abby is he doesn’t have to put up a facade with her. The world sees him as the joking funny guy. But Abby gives him the strength to bring down his walls and be his most genuine self.
Then we Abby. This girl has been through the absolute ringer. But I have so much respect for how strong and resilient her character is. To top it off the girl is absolutely hilarious her banter with Jack had me giggling the entire way through.
Overall, I can’t recommend this book enough Lana has truly done it again. And I can’t wait to own a trophy copy when it releases later this summer!
June 20, 2026
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
If Lana Ferguson writes it, I'll read it, and chances are I’ll love it. The Final Score was exactly what I needed, and getting to dive deeper into Jack after loving him so much in The Game Changer was incredibly special. On the surface, he’s the funny, goofy social butterfly who is always down for a good time. But seeing how much Jack is actually masking his intense anxiety and deep-seated fears of not being enough completely broke my heart. It drives me absolutely crazy when people have a preconceived notion of who someone is and refuse to look past their public persona. Honestly, Ian is supposed to be Jack's best friend, but neither he nor Jack's sister, Delilah, seems to think very highly of him, treating him like he’s dumb just because he’s the comic relief. It made me want to scream! Why does Ian’s mother seem to understand and see the real Jack better than his own lifelong friends?
Thankfully, watching Abby and Jack open up to one another and build a genuine friendship before turning to romance was lovely. Abby is a character I found myself rooting for from the very beginning; she struggles with those same exact feelings of inadequacy, and watching her realize her own worth through her relationship with Jack was so moving. Lana’s banter is top-tier as always, and the care given to this romance is superb. It’s not just about the chemistry. The attention to detail given to the driving forces that molded these characters is so intentional. I truly appreciated that Lana didn’t shy away from the difficult parts of life. Showing Jack handle his struggles through medication and vulnerable conversations with Abby was incredibly validating and refreshing to see on the page.
Was Jack a perfect main character? No. Did he cause some of his own problems? Maybe so, but he recognized his missteps and actively made amends, which only made me love him more. I will say that, outside of some inconsistencies with how real world hockey actually works, and a couple of highly predictable plot lines , this was a completely delightful read. I do have to admit that Ian and Delilah were kind of insufferable this time around (okay, maybe mostly Delilah), but getting to watch these two deeply relatable main characters find their happily ever after completely salvaged those minor annoyances. It's a fantastic addition to Lana’s world!
If Lana Ferguson writes it, I'll read it, and chances are I’ll love it. The Final Score was exactly what I needed, and getting to dive deeper into Jack after loving him so much in The Game Changer was incredibly special. On the surface, he’s the funny, goofy social butterfly who is always down for a good time. But seeing how much Jack is actually masking his intense anxiety and deep-seated fears of not being enough completely broke my heart. It drives me absolutely crazy when people have a preconceived notion of who someone is and refuse to look past their public persona. Honestly, Ian is supposed to be Jack's best friend, but neither he nor Jack's sister, Delilah, seems to think very highly of him, treating him like he’s dumb just because he’s the comic relief. It made me want to scream! Why does Ian’s mother seem to understand and see the real Jack better than his own lifelong friends?
Thankfully, watching Abby and Jack open up to one another and build a genuine friendship before turning to romance was lovely. Abby is a character I found myself rooting for from the very beginning; she struggles with those same exact feelings of inadequacy, and watching her realize her own worth through her relationship with Jack was so moving. Lana’s banter is top-tier as always, and the care given to this romance is superb. It’s not just about the chemistry. The attention to detail given to the driving forces that molded these characters is so intentional. I truly appreciated that Lana didn’t shy away from the difficult parts of life. Showing Jack handle his struggles through medication and vulnerable conversations with Abby was incredibly validating and refreshing to see on the page.
Was Jack a perfect main character? No. Did he cause some of his own problems? Maybe so, but he recognized his missteps and actively made amends, which only made me love him more. I will say that, outside of some inconsistencies with how real world hockey actually works, and a couple of highly predictable plot lines , this was a completely delightful read. I do have to admit that Ian and Delilah were kind of insufferable this time around (okay, maybe mostly Delilah), but getting to watch these two deeply relatable main characters find their happily ever after completely salvaged those minor annoyances. It's a fantastic addition to Lana’s world!
February 26, 2026
Jack and Abby’s relationship was everything I love in a romance. Their dynamic worked so beautifully together and felt incredibly natural. Abby’s quiet strength and seriousness paired perfectly with Jack’s high energy, golden retriever personality, and watching them balance each other was so satisfying. The chemistry built slowly and intentionally, which made it even better.
The close proximity roommate setup allowed their connection to develop organically, and I loved how their friendship naturally grew into something deeper without ever feeling rushed. Their bond felt genuine, emotional, and unforgettable.
Beyond the romance, the emotional layers of this story really stood out to me. Jack’s journey through injury, identity, and responsibility added so much depth to his character, while Abby’s struggles with family and belonging made her so easy to root for. Together, they found comfort, understanding, and healing in each other in a way that felt honest and heartfelt.
This was a really enjoyable, solid romance that I’m glad I read, and Jack and Abby are a couple I’ll definitely remember.
Thank you so much Berkley, NetGalley, and Lana Ferguson for this e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
June 9, 2026
This was just so much FUN! Lana Ferguson is the queen or flirty banter, this book had me giggling and kicking my feet. Jack was such a cutie pie and his sunshine balanced out Abby’s grumpiness/quietness so well. My only real critiques were that I was a bit confused about the family dynamic and that there were a few too many spicy scenes for my liking.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
May 26, 2026
Won an advanced copy through the Goodreads giveaway and this was amazing! Finished in one sitting as I just couldn’t put it down.
From the “your mom” jokes to him calling them “lovers” to annoy Abby, Jack has this perfect humor that is so natural but still had me cracking up in every chapter.
5 star read for me and I am so grateful for the chance to have read this before its release!!🤩🏒
From the “your mom” jokes to him calling them “lovers” to annoy Abby, Jack has this perfect humor that is so natural but still had me cracking up in every chapter.
5 star read for me and I am so grateful for the chance to have read this before its release!!🤩🏒
February 15, 2026
A huge shoutout to the author, publisher, and Edelweiss for the chance to read this ARC! I am obsessed with Lana Ferguson’s romances, especially the hockey romances 😍 this was so good!!
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Lana Ferguson’s “The Final Score,” the follow-up to The Game Changer, is a forced-proximity sports romance between a psychology graduate student and a professional hockey player.
Twenty-five-year-old Abigail “Abby” Thompson recently had a falling out with her estranged father. After her mother’s death, Abby discovers the identity of her father’s wife and son and the life of luxury they have been living. When the truth becomes public, her father is forced out of his home. Determined to build a relationship with her half-brother, Abby soon realizes that reconnecting with family is not as easy as she hoped.
Jack Baker lost his parents when he was twelve years old. His younger sister, Delilah “Dee,” was only eight at the time. The siblings were raised by their Aunt Bea, and hockey has been a constant in Jack’s life ever since. Now a player for the Boston Druids, Jack shares the ice with his best friend, Ian Chase, a hockey prodigy who also happens to be dating Dee.
When an unexpected flood leaves Abby’s apartment temporarily uninhabitable, she moves into Ian’s apartment. However, sleeping on the couch and listening to Ian’s romantic escapades quickly becomes exhausting. When Jack offers her his spare room, Abby reluctantly accepts. Recovering from an arm and wrist injury, Jack is also struggling with panic attacks, anxiety, and depression. As Abby gets to know him better, she realizes that his flirtatious, easygoing personality is often a way to cope with his own challenges and put others at ease. Meanwhile, Jack must decide whether returning to the ice is worth risking his health. As he battles his inner demons, Abby works through her complicated family situation and learns to trust and rely on others.
While Ferguson’s second novel in the series is marketed as a standalone, it works better as a companion to The Game Changer. Told in alternating points of view, the novel allows readers to gain insight into both Abby and Jack’s personal struggles as their relationship develops. However, much of Abby’s conflict with her father stems from events in the previous novel, yet the timeline between the books is never clearly established. Readers who have not read the first installment may find themselves confused about when Abby discovered her father’s secret family and the aftermath of that revelation.
The novel also suffers from repetition. Several phrases in Jack’s chapters are reused multiple times, and the same issues appear in the book’s intimate scenes. Although the banter between Abby and Jack is charming and often humorous, their romantic chemistry does not feel as strong or compelling as that of the previous novel’s couple. Despite its engaging characters and exploration of mental health, The Final Score ultimately falls short of its predecessor.
I received an ARC through Edelweiss via Berkley and PRH in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
3.5/5 not rounded
BUDDY READ
The Game Changer 4/5
The Final Score 3.5/5
Twenty-five-year-old Abigail “Abby” Thompson recently had a falling out with her estranged father. After her mother’s death, Abby discovers the identity of her father’s wife and son and the life of luxury they have been living. When the truth becomes public, her father is forced out of his home. Determined to build a relationship with her half-brother, Abby soon realizes that reconnecting with family is not as easy as she hoped.
Jack Baker lost his parents when he was twelve years old. His younger sister, Delilah “Dee,” was only eight at the time. The siblings were raised by their Aunt Bea, and hockey has been a constant in Jack’s life ever since. Now a player for the Boston Druids, Jack shares the ice with his best friend, Ian Chase, a hockey prodigy who also happens to be dating Dee.
When an unexpected flood leaves Abby’s apartment temporarily uninhabitable, she moves into Ian’s apartment. However, sleeping on the couch and listening to Ian’s romantic escapades quickly becomes exhausting. When Jack offers her his spare room, Abby reluctantly accepts. Recovering from an arm and wrist injury, Jack is also struggling with panic attacks, anxiety, and depression. As Abby gets to know him better, she realizes that his flirtatious, easygoing personality is often a way to cope with his own challenges and put others at ease. Meanwhile, Jack must decide whether returning to the ice is worth risking his health. As he battles his inner demons, Abby works through her complicated family situation and learns to trust and rely on others.
While Ferguson’s second novel in the series is marketed as a standalone, it works better as a companion to The Game Changer. Told in alternating points of view, the novel allows readers to gain insight into both Abby and Jack’s personal struggles as their relationship develops. However, much of Abby’s conflict with her father stems from events in the previous novel, yet the timeline between the books is never clearly established. Readers who have not read the first installment may find themselves confused about when Abby discovered her father’s secret family and the aftermath of that revelation.
The novel also suffers from repetition. Several phrases in Jack’s chapters are reused multiple times, and the same issues appear in the book’s intimate scenes. Although the banter between Abby and Jack is charming and often humorous, their romantic chemistry does not feel as strong or compelling as that of the previous novel’s couple. Despite its engaging characters and exploration of mental health, The Final Score ultimately falls short of its predecessor.
I received an ARC through Edelweiss via Berkley and PRH in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
3.5/5 not rounded
BUDDY READ
The Game Changer 4/5
The Final Score 3.5/5
June 3, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
No notes. Absolutely adored it.
The Final Score was everything I wanted from Jack and Abby's story. This is a sequel to The Game Changer and it did not miss. I read this book in one sitting.
One of my favorite things about this series is the "dating my sibling's best friend" swap. In The Game Changer, Jack's best friend falls for his sister, and in this book, Jack falls for his best friend's sister. I loved seeing that parallel play out.
Jack and Abby both had so much depth, and I really appreciated how Lana Ferguson handled themes of anxiety, self worth, and healing. Their forced proximity/roommate situation gave them the perfect chance to truly get to know each other, and their chemistry was off the charts.
Overall, this was a heartfelt, emotional sports romance with lovable characters, great chemistry, and a romance worth rooting for. If you loved The Game Changer, you need to pick this one up.
As always, thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
No notes. Absolutely adored it.
The Final Score was everything I wanted from Jack and Abby's story. This is a sequel to The Game Changer and it did not miss. I read this book in one sitting.
One of my favorite things about this series is the "dating my sibling's best friend" swap. In The Game Changer, Jack's best friend falls for his sister, and in this book, Jack falls for his best friend's sister. I loved seeing that parallel play out.
Jack and Abby both had so much depth, and I really appreciated how Lana Ferguson handled themes of anxiety, self worth, and healing. Their forced proximity/roommate situation gave them the perfect chance to truly get to know each other, and their chemistry was off the charts.
Overall, this was a heartfelt, emotional sports romance with lovable characters, great chemistry, and a romance worth rooting for. If you loved The Game Changer, you need to pick this one up.
As always, thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 28, 2026
The plot of this one, a hockey playboy pining after a girl who isn’t interested/guarded, wasn’t anything ground breaking..? Not that I didn’t enjoy it but with how many hockey romances are out there, this one doesn’t stand out as super unique.
However, the most unique part of the book was some of the interpersonal problems the characters were dealing with. It felt relatable on many levels, including anxiety, finding meaning in life, and complex family relationships.
Was this book a fun ride? Absolutely! I recommend if you’re looking for a romance you can fly through and that will probably make you feel warm and fuzzy.
3.5⭐️
Thanks to the publisher for an advanced copy of this one!
However, the most unique part of the book was some of the interpersonal problems the characters were dealing with. It felt relatable on many levels, including anxiety, finding meaning in life, and complex family relationships.
Was this book a fun ride? Absolutely! I recommend if you’re looking for a romance you can fly through and that will probably make you feel warm and fuzzy.
3.5⭐️
Thanks to the publisher for an advanced copy of this one!
April 16, 2026
3.75 stars.
Lana Ferguson's "The Final Score" is an engaging, funny, surprisingly sentimental best-friend's-little-sister, grumpy sunshine (she's the grump!) hockey romance with plenty of self-discovery and sneaking around. The FMC, Abby, doesn't much care for Jack, the MMC. He is best friends with her older half-brother, Ian, and they are on the same hockey team. Abby has been through a lot in her life, and she has erected some massive walls and a serious, grumpy facade to cover the pain she has endured. Underneath it all, though, she's been subjected to a lot of hurt and trauma, and she has yet to work it out. Jack recently broke his arm, which derailed his hockey playing for a while. After another injury with more serious complications, his entire career is on the line, but he won't give up playing for anything because it's what he thinks is all he has in life. When a pipe bursts in her apartment, Jack offers Abby the spare room at his place, and she takes him up on the offer since she's currently sleeping on her brother's couch. As the two spend more and more time together in close proximity, slowly but surely, Abby's sky-high walls start to come down little by little, and she and Jack become friends and eventually "bedroom buddies." Jack learns about Abby's trauma from the fallout of her now non-existent relationship with her father, and Abby discovers that Jack has anxiety attacks and doesn't feel good enough to be or do anything outside of hockey. He doesn't think he is worthy of good things. Their issues help them connect as they begin to help each other heal, and as they heal, they begin to fall in love. Jack and Abby are a good "opposites attract" pairing as Jack is basically a golden retriever, and Abby is a black cat. They complement one another well, though I could have used a *bit* more yearning. Their mental health and trust issues are similar, but also different, and they learn some valuable lessons about each other, and themselves, along the way to falling in love. It wasn't expected, but isn't that the best kind? I really like how Ferguson takes her time getting Abby and Jack to fall for one another. Some readers might find the pacing a bit slow, but I didn't. The witty banter and quick quips in this book made me laugh out loud on several occasions. Abby starts out the book kind of bitter and resentful, but Jack's sunshine-y personality rubs off on her as she starts to miss his jokes, demeanor, and, well, *other* things. I wonder if some readers might think there's not enough hockey playing/SPORTS! in this book, but to me, it made sense because of Jack's injury. This book might not bring anything new to the table, but it's a good enough time.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lana Ferguson, and Berkley Publishing Group for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
Lana Ferguson's "The Final Score" is an engaging, funny, surprisingly sentimental best-friend's-little-sister, grumpy sunshine (she's the grump!) hockey romance with plenty of self-discovery and sneaking around. The FMC, Abby, doesn't much care for Jack, the MMC. He is best friends with her older half-brother, Ian, and they are on the same hockey team. Abby has been through a lot in her life, and she has erected some massive walls and a serious, grumpy facade to cover the pain she has endured. Underneath it all, though, she's been subjected to a lot of hurt and trauma, and she has yet to work it out. Jack recently broke his arm, which derailed his hockey playing for a while. After another injury with more serious complications, his entire career is on the line, but he won't give up playing for anything because it's what he thinks is all he has in life. When a pipe bursts in her apartment, Jack offers Abby the spare room at his place, and she takes him up on the offer since she's currently sleeping on her brother's couch. As the two spend more and more time together in close proximity, slowly but surely, Abby's sky-high walls start to come down little by little, and she and Jack become friends and eventually "bedroom buddies." Jack learns about Abby's trauma from the fallout of her now non-existent relationship with her father, and Abby discovers that Jack has anxiety attacks and doesn't feel good enough to be or do anything outside of hockey. He doesn't think he is worthy of good things. Their issues help them connect as they begin to help each other heal, and as they heal, they begin to fall in love. Jack and Abby are a good "opposites attract" pairing as Jack is basically a golden retriever, and Abby is a black cat. They complement one another well, though I could have used a *bit* more yearning. Their mental health and trust issues are similar, but also different, and they learn some valuable lessons about each other, and themselves, along the way to falling in love. It wasn't expected, but isn't that the best kind? I really like how Ferguson takes her time getting Abby and Jack to fall for one another. Some readers might find the pacing a bit slow, but I didn't. The witty banter and quick quips in this book made me laugh out loud on several occasions. Abby starts out the book kind of bitter and resentful, but Jack's sunshine-y personality rubs off on her as she starts to miss his jokes, demeanor, and, well, *other* things. I wonder if some readers might think there's not enough hockey playing/SPORTS! in this book, but to me, it made sense because of Jack's injury. This book might not bring anything new to the table, but it's a good enough time.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lana Ferguson, and Berkley Publishing Group for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
📚 BOOK 89 OF 2026 📚
🩷 THE FINAL SCORE - LANA FERGUSON🩷
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Summary: The Final Score follows Abby, a grad student struggling to find her feet, and Jack, a professional hockey player and her brother's best friend. As they turn into unexpected roommates, their connection becomes real, and the two find themselves navigating new dreams, and the possibility of a love neither of them expected.
Thoughts: I honestly had the best freaking time with this one! It was fun and sexy, but also had a good amount of emotional depth. Abby was a breath of fresh air! I lived for her black cat energy, not only because it was different for a romance book, bht it added so much humour and banter to the story. She was such a realist and had her struggles, but didn't let them define her. She was just so mature and her growth across the book of her gaining her independence and coming into herself was beautiful to see. Jack was such a loveable goof. He was such a contrast to Abby, but it created such good banter and fun energy. He was also so much more than this though, because he had that more emotional depth to him. Both characters were just incredibly well developed. Their chemistry was so hot as well! It was full of tension, that Lana cleverly amped up and their push and pull was so much fun to read about. I loved the way their relationship developed naturally, beyond the attraction, where they formed a friendship before becoming involved. I love when author's do this because it moves connections beyond the surface level. There were so many moments between them that had me smiling, giggling to myself and rooting for them to get their happily ever after. I enjoyed watching them learn to trust each other and become vulnerable, as it made for so many heartwearming moments. Lana's writing is just so addictive and easy to consume, and I found myself flying through this book. She has such a knack for balancing humour, spice and heartfelt moments, that make you become so invested in the characters right from the start. She just puts good energy and fun vibes into her books that literally make it impossible not to enjoy! While this wasn't quite a five-star read for me, I still thoroughly enjoyed every second of it. There were just a few things that kept me from becoming fully obsessed, like some scenes needed a bit more depth and character bonding. But overall this was such a swoony, fun and heartwarming romance. Lana Ferguson continues to prove why she's an auto-buy author for me, and I can't wait to pick up whatever she writes next!
🩷 THE FINAL SCORE - LANA FERGUSON🩷
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Summary: The Final Score follows Abby, a grad student struggling to find her feet, and Jack, a professional hockey player and her brother's best friend. As they turn into unexpected roommates, their connection becomes real, and the two find themselves navigating new dreams, and the possibility of a love neither of them expected.
Thoughts: I honestly had the best freaking time with this one! It was fun and sexy, but also had a good amount of emotional depth. Abby was a breath of fresh air! I lived for her black cat energy, not only because it was different for a romance book, bht it added so much humour and banter to the story. She was such a realist and had her struggles, but didn't let them define her. She was just so mature and her growth across the book of her gaining her independence and coming into herself was beautiful to see. Jack was such a loveable goof. He was such a contrast to Abby, but it created such good banter and fun energy. He was also so much more than this though, because he had that more emotional depth to him. Both characters were just incredibly well developed. Their chemistry was so hot as well! It was full of tension, that Lana cleverly amped up and their push and pull was so much fun to read about. I loved the way their relationship developed naturally, beyond the attraction, where they formed a friendship before becoming involved. I love when author's do this because it moves connections beyond the surface level. There were so many moments between them that had me smiling, giggling to myself and rooting for them to get their happily ever after. I enjoyed watching them learn to trust each other and become vulnerable, as it made for so many heartwearming moments. Lana's writing is just so addictive and easy to consume, and I found myself flying through this book. She has such a knack for balancing humour, spice and heartfelt moments, that make you become so invested in the characters right from the start. She just puts good energy and fun vibes into her books that literally make it impossible not to enjoy! While this wasn't quite a five-star read for me, I still thoroughly enjoyed every second of it. There were just a few things that kept me from becoming fully obsessed, like some scenes needed a bit more depth and character bonding. But overall this was such a swoony, fun and heartwarming romance. Lana Ferguson continues to prove why she's an auto-buy author for me, and I can't wait to pick up whatever she writes next!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“That’s the funny thing about love. It doesn’t really work on anyone’s schedule. It kicks the door open and makes itself at home, whether you like it or not.”
The Final Score was such a fun, emotional surprise for me. I came for the hockey spice and stayed for the incredibly heartfelt character work, the roommate tension, and one of the most lovable golden retriever MMCs I’ve read in a while.
Jack completely stole this book for me. On the surface he’s flirty, chaotic, funny, and always trying to make everyone around him smile, but underneath all of that he’s struggling so much with his injury, his identity outside of hockey, and the pressure of always being “the happy one.” Lana Ferguson did such a good job showing that kind of quiet emotional burnout, and it made Jack feel so real and easy to love.
And Abby was the perfect match for him. She’s guarded, serious, a little prickly, and carrying years of hurt from her family situation, but I loved how steady and grounded she was. Their black cat/golden retriever dynamic worked SO well. The banter was great, the chemistry was palpable, and I really loved how naturally their friendship developed once they were forced into living together.
I will say this leaned a little less slow burn than I usually prefer. The physical side of the relationship starts fairly early (before the 40% mark), and I personally would’ve loved a bit more tension and yearning beforehand. But honestly, the emotional connection between them was strong enough that it still worked for me.
What really elevated this beyond a typical sports romance was the emotional depth. The conversations around anxiety, self-worth, family trauma, and feeling lost in your own life were handled with a lot of care, and the romance felt stronger because of it. Jack and Abby don’t magically fix each other, but they become a safe place for one another, and I loved watching that trust build over time.
This was spicy, comforting, emotional, and ridiculously readable. I flew through it in a day and ended up way more attached to these characters than I expected. Definitely one of those romances that balances heat and heart really well, and I’m glad there was a fully developed plot woven through the story rather than the sole focus being the smut.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for this eARC!
The Final Score was such a fun, emotional surprise for me. I came for the hockey spice and stayed for the incredibly heartfelt character work, the roommate tension, and one of the most lovable golden retriever MMCs I’ve read in a while.
Jack completely stole this book for me. On the surface he’s flirty, chaotic, funny, and always trying to make everyone around him smile, but underneath all of that he’s struggling so much with his injury, his identity outside of hockey, and the pressure of always being “the happy one.” Lana Ferguson did such a good job showing that kind of quiet emotional burnout, and it made Jack feel so real and easy to love.
And Abby was the perfect match for him. She’s guarded, serious, a little prickly, and carrying years of hurt from her family situation, but I loved how steady and grounded she was. Their black cat/golden retriever dynamic worked SO well. The banter was great, the chemistry was palpable, and I really loved how naturally their friendship developed once they were forced into living together.
I will say this leaned a little less slow burn than I usually prefer. The physical side of the relationship starts fairly early (before the 40% mark), and I personally would’ve loved a bit more tension and yearning beforehand. But honestly, the emotional connection between them was strong enough that it still worked for me.
What really elevated this beyond a typical sports romance was the emotional depth. The conversations around anxiety, self-worth, family trauma, and feeling lost in your own life were handled with a lot of care, and the romance felt stronger because of it. Jack and Abby don’t magically fix each other, but they become a safe place for one another, and I loved watching that trust build over time.
This was spicy, comforting, emotional, and ridiculously readable. I flew through it in a day and ended up way more attached to these characters than I expected. Definitely one of those romances that balances heat and heart really well, and I’m glad there was a fully developed plot woven through the story rather than the sole focus being the smut.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for this eARC!
June 12, 2026
3.75 rounded up. Thank you to Little Brown Book Group UK, Pikatus & NetGalley for sending me an ARC of The Final Score in exchange for an honest review.
Lana Ferguson always delivers on the laughs and the spice, and this one was also extra sweet!
Jack is finally cleared to get back on the ice following a nasty injury, and he couldn’t be more ecstatic to be back where he belongs. The game has other ideas though, after he injures himself again almost immediately and is given the life changing news that he may not be able to play again.
Abby is trying to ride out the aftermath of her father’s scandal, and find her place in her new life alongside her brother Ian and his girlfriend (Jack’s sister), Lila. When her luck goes from bad to worse and her apartment building floods, she finds herself asking to crash with the last person she expected - self assured, flirty Jack. She seems to be the only one immune to his charms, or at least that’s what she tells herself 🙊
This was soooo cute and I enjoyed it more than the first book in the series, The Game Changer. Abby and Jack had fantastic chemistry, their banter was on point, they only showed their real selves to one another, and the story was just better in every way for me!
Abby, my gorgeous little moonbeam. She has been dealt such a rough hand, and I felt so awful for her believing she is a burden and can’t rely on anyone. I love her so much, I just want to wrap her up in a blanket and give her all the forehead kisses.
And Jack, your honour I love him. A traumatised, damaged boy hiding behind a false sense of bravado and humour…ugh my heart. His struggles were so authentic, and I’m so happy Abby is there to help him through.
The spice was also really good in this - something that rarely misses in Lana’s books!
Overall, this was a fun read and was a great palette cleanser (I picked this up after finishing a heavy political fantasy).
Tropes include: brothers best friend/best friends brother (this is a deliciously incestuous little group haha), forced proximity, black cat x golden retriever, frenemies to lovers, roommates to lovers…all the good stuff!
Lana Ferguson always delivers on the laughs and the spice, and this one was also extra sweet!
Jack is finally cleared to get back on the ice following a nasty injury, and he couldn’t be more ecstatic to be back where he belongs. The game has other ideas though, after he injures himself again almost immediately and is given the life changing news that he may not be able to play again.
Abby is trying to ride out the aftermath of her father’s scandal, and find her place in her new life alongside her brother Ian and his girlfriend (Jack’s sister), Lila. When her luck goes from bad to worse and her apartment building floods, she finds herself asking to crash with the last person she expected - self assured, flirty Jack. She seems to be the only one immune to his charms, or at least that’s what she tells herself 🙊
This was soooo cute and I enjoyed it more than the first book in the series, The Game Changer. Abby and Jack had fantastic chemistry, their banter was on point, they only showed their real selves to one another, and the story was just better in every way for me!
Abby, my gorgeous little moonbeam. She has been dealt such a rough hand, and I felt so awful for her believing she is a burden and can’t rely on anyone. I love her so much, I just want to wrap her up in a blanket and give her all the forehead kisses.
And Jack, your honour I love him. A traumatised, damaged boy hiding behind a false sense of bravado and humour…ugh my heart. His struggles were so authentic, and I’m so happy Abby is there to help him through.
The spice was also really good in this - something that rarely misses in Lana’s books!
Overall, this was a fun read and was a great palette cleanser (I picked this up after finishing a heavy political fantasy).
Tropes include: brothers best friend/best friends brother (this is a deliciously incestuous little group haha), forced proximity, black cat x golden retriever, frenemies to lovers, roommates to lovers…all the good stuff!
June 20, 2026
If you are picking up The Final Score expecting a completely standalone sports romance where you can just dive right into the ice and the spice, you might want to hit the brakes and read The Game Changer first. I, unfortunately, learned that the hard way. Lana Ferguson drops us straight into some heavy family fallout between Abby, her narcissistic father, and her brother Ian, and without that prior context, the emotional foundation feels a bit blurry from the start.
That said, there is something really grounding about the core conflict driving our MMC Jack. Ferguson taps into that terrifying identity crisis that happens when the thing you love most, and the only career you've ever known, becomes the very thing destroying your body. Watching Jack navigate a massive shoulder re-injury right as his hockey career is resetting gives the story a lovely, vulnerable centre. Pair that with Abby needing a place to stay, and you get a classic forced proximity setup that keeps the pages turning.
I absolutely adore Ferguson’s omegaverse books because they strike such a brilliant balance between intricate plotting and high-heat romance. For me, this sports romance didn't quite hit those same heights. The tension felt a bit diluted by an instant attraction that felt more like a fast forwarded version of falling in love than a earned, slow-burning connection. Because they tumbled into bed so quickly, some of the deeper relationship development felt rushed.
It is still a very fun, light read that manages to handle some heavier themes like anxiety and deep-seated family angst without ever feeling depressing. Jack is flirty and charming, Abby is resilient, and their banter definitely delivers on the entertainment front. It just falters a bit in the final stretch, where a few noticeable plot holes crop up and things wrap up a little too conveniently.
If you are a fan of spicy sports romance and want a quick, easy escape for a weekend, this is absolutely worth adding to your TBR. Just make sure to read the previous book first so you can fully appreciate the family dynamics, and go in expecting a light, comforting romance rather than a total game-changer.
That said, there is something really grounding about the core conflict driving our MMC Jack. Ferguson taps into that terrifying identity crisis that happens when the thing you love most, and the only career you've ever known, becomes the very thing destroying your body. Watching Jack navigate a massive shoulder re-injury right as his hockey career is resetting gives the story a lovely, vulnerable centre. Pair that with Abby needing a place to stay, and you get a classic forced proximity setup that keeps the pages turning.
I absolutely adore Ferguson’s omegaverse books because they strike such a brilliant balance between intricate plotting and high-heat romance. For me, this sports romance didn't quite hit those same heights. The tension felt a bit diluted by an instant attraction that felt more like a fast forwarded version of falling in love than a earned, slow-burning connection. Because they tumbled into bed so quickly, some of the deeper relationship development felt rushed.
It is still a very fun, light read that manages to handle some heavier themes like anxiety and deep-seated family angst without ever feeling depressing. Jack is flirty and charming, Abby is resilient, and their banter definitely delivers on the entertainment front. It just falters a bit in the final stretch, where a few noticeable plot holes crop up and things wrap up a little too conveniently.
If you are a fan of spicy sports romance and want a quick, easy escape for a weekend, this is absolutely worth adding to your TBR. Just make sure to read the previous book first so you can fully appreciate the family dynamics, and go in expecting a light, comforting romance rather than a total game-changer.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
ARC received via NetGalley.
The Final Score is a follow-up to The Game Changer (which is on my TBR) so I was playing catch up with the backstory of Abby and Ian's family drama - they've got the same dad but different moms and until recently, Abby's existence was a secret. I think The Final Score can be read as a standalone because it didn't spoil my enjoyment not having read The Game Changer beforehand.
I've got to admit, I love it when it's the FMC who's the grump to the MMC's sunshine. Abby is a grad student and she's still figuring out her relationship with her newfound brother, Ian. After Abby's existence was revealed, Ian's parents split up and Abby has internalised a lot of guilt, which isn't helped by the constant barrage of texts and calls she gets from her father demanding she fix the situation. Side Note: I love how Ian's mom, Christine rightfully doesn't blame Abby at all and instead treats her like a bonus daughter.
The situation gets more complicated when Abby's apartment floods and she ends up becoming roommates with Jack, Ian's best friend and teammate (they're both professional hockey players). On the surface, Jack is the sunshine to Abby's grump but he's got a lot of emotional depth. A complication after breaking his arm means that if he continues playing hockey, he risks permanently losing functionality in the arm and he's grappling with who he'll be without hockey.
After Jack and his younger sister, Delilah (who's dating Ian) tragically lost their parents at a young age, they spent time in a foster home before being adopted by their aunt, Bea and it's left a lasting impression on Jack. He's weighted down with responsibility whether that's protecting Delilah or not letting down his teammates on the ice.
Abby and Jack balance each other out so well. Abby's calmness soothes Jack's anxieties and Jack's teasing keeps Abby from becoming too serious.
The Final Score is funny, spicy and surprisingly emotional. I really enjoyed it and am excited to catch up on Ian and Delilah's story in The Game Changer.
The Final Score is a follow-up to The Game Changer (which is on my TBR) so I was playing catch up with the backstory of Abby and Ian's family drama - they've got the same dad but different moms and until recently, Abby's existence was a secret. I think The Final Score can be read as a standalone because it didn't spoil my enjoyment not having read The Game Changer beforehand.
I've got to admit, I love it when it's the FMC who's the grump to the MMC's sunshine. Abby is a grad student and she's still figuring out her relationship with her newfound brother, Ian. After Abby's existence was revealed, Ian's parents split up and Abby has internalised a lot of guilt, which isn't helped by the constant barrage of texts and calls she gets from her father demanding she fix the situation. Side Note: I love how Ian's mom, Christine rightfully doesn't blame Abby at all and instead treats her like a bonus daughter.
The situation gets more complicated when Abby's apartment floods and she ends up becoming roommates with Jack, Ian's best friend and teammate (they're both professional hockey players). On the surface, Jack is the sunshine to Abby's grump but he's got a lot of emotional depth. A complication after breaking his arm means that if he continues playing hockey, he risks permanently losing functionality in the arm and he's grappling with who he'll be without hockey.
After Jack and his younger sister, Delilah (who's dating Ian) tragically lost their parents at a young age, they spent time in a foster home before being adopted by their aunt, Bea and it's left a lasting impression on Jack. He's weighted down with responsibility whether that's protecting Delilah or not letting down his teammates on the ice.
Abby and Jack balance each other out so well. Abby's calmness soothes Jack's anxieties and Jack's teasing keeps Abby from becoming too serious.
The Final Score is funny, spicy and surprisingly emotional. I really enjoyed it and am excited to catch up on Ian and Delilah's story in The Game Changer.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Oooh this was a very spicy, very fun read!
✦Series: MF Interconnected standalone.
This is connected to The Game Changer: Delilah and Ian’s story, who are secondary characters and Jack and Abby’s siblings.
Abby’s apartment has a flood, and Jack offers up his extra room. She doesn’t have a high opinion of him, and he grabs the chance like divine intervention.
✦POV: Dual
They’re both flawed, lovable, and MCs you can root for. She’s a prickly grump and he’s all sunshine golden retriever. I loved how they supported each other to work through the tough stuff without influencing decisions. She gives him safety to be honest about his feelings (and vice versa!) while he melts her hard outer shell.
I loved their banter- cutting and witty verbal foreplay! 😂 Jack doesn’t take himself too seriously and Abby is always ready to take him down a peg.
✦Spice: Open door, explicit
Jack describes feeling “lit the f*ck up” and that’s an accurate reflection of the spice. It goes beyond the bedroom, and I’m here for all of it! Jack’s deliciously filthy mouth gave me the good shivers. 🔥😮💨
» High spice is well-balanced by tender moments that show their growth.
» This is my first read by Lana, and it won’t be the last. I have a few others I can’t wait to dive into now. Her writing is relatable and funny with comfortable pacing.
✩ I LOVE the relationship that Abby has with Ian’s mom, Christine. Their interactions and the way Christine treated Abby as her own made my heart sing ♡ A brilliant example of found family! The concept of finding home and what "home" really looks like is a significant theme, and I love how it was explored.
♡ You’ll love this if you’re looking for something with wonderful characters, that's hopeful and lighthearted with some depth! HEA guaranteed!
Expect
👀 Forced proximity
☀️ Outdoor play
🤳 He talks her through it on Facetime 🔥
🤺 Frenemies to lovers
🧠 Mental health rep
🧍🏻♂️ Sibling’s best friend
🏒 Grad student/Hockey player
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ rounded up to 5!
✨ Thank you to Berkley Romance for the ARC to review via NetGalley.
→ Connect with me on Instagram!
✦Series: MF Interconnected standalone.
This is connected to The Game Changer: Delilah and Ian’s story, who are secondary characters and Jack and Abby’s siblings.
Abby’s apartment has a flood, and Jack offers up his extra room. She doesn’t have a high opinion of him, and he grabs the chance like divine intervention.
✦POV: Dual
They’re both flawed, lovable, and MCs you can root for. She’s a prickly grump and he’s all sunshine golden retriever. I loved how they supported each other to work through the tough stuff without influencing decisions. She gives him safety to be honest about his feelings (and vice versa!) while he melts her hard outer shell.
I loved their banter- cutting and witty verbal foreplay! 😂 Jack doesn’t take himself too seriously and Abby is always ready to take him down a peg.
✦Spice: Open door, explicit
Jack describes feeling “lit the f*ck up” and that’s an accurate reflection of the spice. It goes beyond the bedroom, and I’m here for all of it! Jack’s deliciously filthy mouth gave me the good shivers. 🔥😮💨
» High spice is well-balanced by tender moments that show their growth.
» This is my first read by Lana, and it won’t be the last. I have a few others I can’t wait to dive into now. Her writing is relatable and funny with comfortable pacing.
✩ I LOVE the relationship that Abby has with Ian’s mom, Christine. Their interactions and the way Christine treated Abby as her own made my heart sing ♡ A brilliant example of found family! The concept of finding home and what "home" really looks like is a significant theme, and I love how it was explored.
♡ You’ll love this if you’re looking for something with wonderful characters, that's hopeful and lighthearted with some depth! HEA guaranteed!
Expect
👀 Forced proximity
☀️ Outdoor play
🤳 He talks her through it on Facetime 🔥
🤺 Frenemies to lovers
🧠 Mental health rep
🧍🏻♂️ Sibling’s best friend
🏒 Grad student/Hockey player
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ rounded up to 5!
✨ Thank you to Berkley Romance for the ARC to review via NetGalley.
→ Connect with me on Instagram!
June 5, 2026
Why is Jack so freaking cute? Why do I adore that Abigail is the grumpy one? Why does Jack’s stupid jokes make me so insanely happy?
Probably because Lana Ferguson wrote it and everything she writes seems to draw me in.
First, can we just discuss how well Ferguson approached the topic of mental health in this book? Jack clearly suffers from some extreme anxiety and while there is clearly some shame he feels for it, readers got the sense that it wasn’t because he was ashamed he had it, but more he didn’t want the people in his life to know he wasn’t always completely in control (which was a running problem for his life in general.) Jack needed to feel needed but the effect was he also felt like he wasn’t allowed to have needs.
And watching Abby navigate the toxic relationship with her father was also so, so good. We end relationships when we’re ready, when we need to. Does that mean we do it at the right time? Of course not. Hell , most times people hang onto toxic relationships way longer than they should but Abby was such a great example as to why. People tend to want to believe the best in people, to think those relationships can be improved and only when we realize we deserve better do we end them. But no one can make that decision for us.
Abby and Jack were also so freaking perfect together. Jack didn’t need another person nagging him or scolding him or trying to direct his life. She just let him make the decisions and supported him. She validated him. She acknowledged that he might be making the wrong decision but it was his to make. And Jack really helped her open her eyes to her worth. Not just to him but to her brother who loved her, Dee who wanted to be her friend, Caroline who was a motherly ear to lean on despite having every reason not to want a relationship with Abby.
I just appreciated the hell out of the relationships Ferguson built in this book and I’m am so happy we got to see Jack and Abby’s story.
Probably because Lana Ferguson wrote it and everything she writes seems to draw me in.
First, can we just discuss how well Ferguson approached the topic of mental health in this book? Jack clearly suffers from some extreme anxiety and while there is clearly some shame he feels for it, readers got the sense that it wasn’t because he was ashamed he had it, but more he didn’t want the people in his life to know he wasn’t always completely in control (which was a running problem for his life in general.) Jack needed to feel needed but the effect was he also felt like he wasn’t allowed to have needs.
And watching Abby navigate the toxic relationship with her father was also so, so good. We end relationships when we’re ready, when we need to. Does that mean we do it at the right time? Of course not. Hell , most times people hang onto toxic relationships way longer than they should but Abby was such a great example as to why. People tend to want to believe the best in people, to think those relationships can be improved and only when we realize we deserve better do we end them. But no one can make that decision for us.
Abby and Jack were also so freaking perfect together. Jack didn’t need another person nagging him or scolding him or trying to direct his life. She just let him make the decisions and supported him. She validated him. She acknowledged that he might be making the wrong decision but it was his to make. And Jack really helped her open her eyes to her worth. Not just to him but to her brother who loved her, Dee who wanted to be her friend, Caroline who was a motherly ear to lean on despite having every reason not to want a relationship with Abby.
I just appreciated the hell out of the relationships Ferguson built in this book and I’m am so happy we got to see Jack and Abby’s story.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I am a longtime romance lover, and sports romances have become one of my favorite comfort reads over the last few years. Hockey romances, in particular, always seem to work for me. Between the emotional journeys and the high-stakes sports element, they tend to be some of my favorite books. That is why I was excited to pick up this one.
I really liked Jack and Abby right away. Both characters are carrying around a lot of hurt, and it was easy to understand why they struggled to trust others. Jack has spent much of his life being the person everyone else could rely on, while Abby is still trying to move forward after years of dealing with a difficult family situation. One of my favorite parts of the story was watching Abby see beyond the confident, carefree image Jack presents to the world. Likewise, I loved seeing Jack recognize that Abby deserved to be truly valued and cherished.
I also appreciated how Abby handled Jack's injury situation. While everyone around him seemed to have an opinion about what he should do, she understood that it was ultimately his decision to make. More importantly, she made it clear that she would support him no matter what he chose. That level of respect and trust made me root for them even more. And while the inevitable third-act conflict did make an appearance, I was very happy that it did not drag on for long.
All in all, I really loved this book. The epilogue, which takes place six months later, was especially satisfying and left me with a smile on my face. While this can absolutely be read as a standalone, I do think I would have benefited from reading “The Game Changer” first. I will definitely be going back to read it.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
I really liked Jack and Abby right away. Both characters are carrying around a lot of hurt, and it was easy to understand why they struggled to trust others. Jack has spent much of his life being the person everyone else could rely on, while Abby is still trying to move forward after years of dealing with a difficult family situation. One of my favorite parts of the story was watching Abby see beyond the confident, carefree image Jack presents to the world. Likewise, I loved seeing Jack recognize that Abby deserved to be truly valued and cherished.
I also appreciated how Abby handled Jack's injury situation. While everyone around him seemed to have an opinion about what he should do, she understood that it was ultimately his decision to make. More importantly, she made it clear that she would support him no matter what he chose. That level of respect and trust made me root for them even more. And while the inevitable third-act conflict did make an appearance, I was very happy that it did not drag on for long.
All in all, I really loved this book. The epilogue, which takes place six months later, was especially satisfying and left me with a smile on my face. While this can absolutely be read as a standalone, I do think I would have benefited from reading “The Game Changer” first. I will definitely be going back to read it.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
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