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The Final Score
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Expected 7 Jul 26Win a free print copy of this book!
20 days and 13:08:30
15 copies available
U.S. only
A 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
22788 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Want to read
January 3, 2026I can't with the bare dogs on the cover but its going on my tbr anyways
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!
Want to read
March 5, 2026🏒 The Final Score by Lana Ferguson
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
I’ll be sharing my full review closer to publication date.
📅 Pub Date: July 7, 2026
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
I’ll be sharing my full review closer to publication date.
📅 Pub Date: July 7, 2026
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.
Want to read
December 1, 2025I am waiting for the application for this ARC.
I really enjoyed The Game Changer!
I really enjoyed The Game Changer!
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 Netgalley
4.5 stars thanks net galley and Berkley for the ARC (:
this dynamic worked beautifully together which shocked me because I didn't like the idea of a brother dating his sisters boyfriends sister... but that was definitely overshadowed by Abby's soft and seriousness mixed with Jack's hyperactive personality. They really balanced each other very well and I was obsessed with them especially once they started getting it awnnnnn. This is definitely going to be a relationship I'll always remember as one that had a seriously perfect connection. No doubt that these two liked each other, LOVED each other!
But this book def made me a little annoyed by Lila and Ian from the first book in this series. They were too judgy and overbearing which ive seen happen to me in my personal life so it pissed me off because of the connection I had to it.
Also maybe could have toned it down with Jack saying Abby looked like Ian in the beginning of the book because like WEIRD!! but luckily it never happens again past like 25%
Another thing.... I'm saying this as a natural blond but he describes her pubes as "blond curls" and I just don't believe that exists. I have never seen blond pubes in my damn life. Please correct me if I'm wrong but this took me so outttt
But anywayssss I love a good roommate romance and ofc a hot hockey player with mega golden retriever vibes and a girl who just eats it up
this dynamic worked beautifully together which shocked me because I didn't like the idea of a brother dating his sisters boyfriends sister... but that was definitely overshadowed by Abby's soft and seriousness mixed with Jack's hyperactive personality. They really balanced each other very well and I was obsessed with them especially once they started getting it awnnnnn. This is definitely going to be a relationship I'll always remember as one that had a seriously perfect connection. No doubt that these two liked each other, LOVED each other!
But this book def made me a little annoyed by Lila and Ian from the first book in this series. They were too judgy and overbearing which ive seen happen to me in my personal life so it pissed me off because of the connection I had to it.
Also maybe could have toned it down with Jack saying Abby looked like Ian in the beginning of the book because like WEIRD!! but luckily it never happens again past like 25%
Another thing.... I'm saying this as a natural blond but he describes her pubes as "blond curls" and I just don't believe that exists. I have never seen blond pubes in my damn life. Please correct me if I'm wrong but this took me so outttt
But anywayssss I love a good roommate romance and ofc a hot hockey player with mega golden retriever vibes and a girl who just eats it up
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a solid romance novel, *particularly* if you like your spice early (before the 40% mark) and often. I thought the Final Score ended stronger than it began, which is basically unheard of for a romance novel!
I, personally, like a slow burn with lots of tension, so I would have liked it if the will-they-won’t-they would have lasted a little longer. Instead we jumped right in to hooking up. So the beginning of the story, while fun, was a little repetitive: hook up, be worried about X & Z, hook up, repeat.
The Final Score’s strength is Jack. His past trauma and current injury are the heart of the story. I adored him. He felt very fully formed.
I haven’t read book one in this series and I think if I had, it would have added even more to my love and understanding of both characters, but particularly Abby.
In a truly shocking turn of events, I really loved the 3rd act tension (who am I??? And I feeling alright??). I thought it was valid, handled maturely, and wrapped up quickly. It really made me appreciate this book and the characters more.
I read this in one day while I was home sick with a cold. It’s very readable and the writing is addictive. I would definitely recommend this is you’re wanting something a little smutty.
I’m excited to dip my toe into her werewolf romances in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publish Group for the advanced reader copy!
I, personally, like a slow burn with lots of tension, so I would have liked it if the will-they-won’t-they would have lasted a little longer. Instead we jumped right in to hooking up. So the beginning of the story, while fun, was a little repetitive: hook up, be worried about X & Z, hook up, repeat.
The Final Score’s strength is Jack. His past trauma and current injury are the heart of the story. I adored him. He felt very fully formed.
I haven’t read book one in this series and I think if I had, it would have added even more to my love and understanding of both characters, but particularly Abby.
In a truly shocking turn of events, I really loved the 3rd act tension (who am I??? And I feeling alright??). I thought it was valid, handled maturely, and wrapped up quickly. It really made me appreciate this book and the characters more.
I read this in one day while I was home sick with a cold. It’s very readable and the writing is addictive. I would definitely recommend this is you’re wanting something a little smutty.
I’m excited to dip my toe into her werewolf romances in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publish Group for the advanced reader copy!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
At its core, this story is about something so many of us struggle with, choosing between the thing you love most and protecting your health. That tension runs through every page, and it’s handled with so much care and emotional weight. It never feels forced or dramatic for the sake of it. It feels real.
Jack is such a strong, grounded character. Not just physically strong but emotionally steady, patient, and deeply supportive. He doesn’t overpower the story. He anchors it. Watching him show up for Abby in quiet, consistent ways made their relationship feel authentic and earned.
And the forced proximity? it was done well. It wasn’t just about being stuck together, it created vulnerability. It forced conversations. It built intimacy in a way that felt organic instead of rushed.
Abby and Jack together were everything. Their chemistry felt natural, their emotional connection felt layered, and the way their relationship developed alongside Abby’s internal struggle made it hit even harder.
Jack is such a strong, grounded character. Not just physically strong but emotionally steady, patient, and deeply supportive. He doesn’t overpower the story. He anchors it. Watching him show up for Abby in quiet, consistent ways made their relationship feel authentic and earned.
And the forced proximity? it was done well. It wasn’t just about being stuck together, it created vulnerability. It forced conversations. It built intimacy in a way that felt organic instead of rushed.
Abby and Jack together were everything. Their chemistry felt natural, their emotional connection felt layered, and the way their relationship developed alongside Abby’s internal struggle made it hit even harder.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I adored Jack as a supporting character in The Game Changer so I was excited to hear he would be the MMC in The Final Score! Jack gives off golden retriever sunshine energy, which I love, but we also get to see a more vulnerable and serious side of him that he usually keeps tucked away. Jack struggles with choosing between the thing that makes him feel whole and what is best for his long-term health. Our grumpy black cat, Abby, is his perfect match. She brings out Jack’s more serious side, while Jack helps Abby come out of her shell and gain the confidence to believe she deserves good things. Abby is trying to figure out how to deal with her toxic father while also navigating the aftermath and picking up the pieces. The connection and budding romance between Abby and Jack worked so well. I also appreciated how both characters tried to handle their internal struggles on their own before realizing they needed to ask for help. Those moments came across as very raw and genuine. I liked how the story balanced tender, emotional scenes with fun and sexy banter. It was also fun to see Delilah and Ian as supporting characters and watch their relationship progress. If you loved The Game Changer, I definitely recommend picking this one up!
Thank you Berkley Romance for the free copy
Thank you Berkley Romance for the free copy
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
I read The Final Score by Lana Ferguson and ended up giving it 3 stars.
Unfortunately, I felt like I was missing a lot of important backstory about Ian and Abby because I hadn’t read The Game Changer first. None of the book review sites I checked clearly showed this as part of a connected series, so I went in expecting a more standalone experience. That left me at a disadvantage, especially since the protagonists from The Game Changer appear frequently throughout this book. There’s quite a bit of history and relationship development that carries over, and without that context, I sometimes felt like I was trying to catch up.
That said, I did enjoy Ian and Abby’s story overall. The writing was strong and engaging, and the characters were entertaining and easy to root for. Once I settled in, I appreciated the chemistry and emotional beats between them.
I just wish I had known to start with the first book—reading in order would definitely enhance the experience.
Unfortunately, I felt like I was missing a lot of important backstory about Ian and Abby because I hadn’t read The Game Changer first. None of the book review sites I checked clearly showed this as part of a connected series, so I went in expecting a more standalone experience. That left me at a disadvantage, especially since the protagonists from The Game Changer appear frequently throughout this book. There’s quite a bit of history and relationship development that carries over, and without that context, I sometimes felt like I was trying to catch up.
That said, I did enjoy Ian and Abby’s story overall. The writing was strong and engaging, and the characters were entertaining and easy to root for. Once I settled in, I appreciated the chemistry and emotional beats between them.
I just wish I had known to start with the first book—reading in order would definitely enhance the experience.
March 9, 2026
I’m completely obsessed with this book! From the moment I started, I couldn’t put it down. One minute I was giggling, the next I was tearing up, it had me fully in my feelings the entire time.
Abby comes from a difficult upbringing that left her questioning her worth and building walls around her heart. Now she’s studying to become a therapist, determined to help others break unhealthy patterns and heal from their past.
Enter Jake, her brother’s best friend and the one person she absolutely cannot stand. But when circumstances force them to live together, the tension between them quickly turns into something deeper. Jake slowly chips away at Abby’s walls, showing her that she deserves far more than she believes.
Watching their relationship evolve was so satisfying. The banter, the tension, the vulnerability, it all made their journey feel real and heartfelt. Their enemies-to-lovers dynamic was everything, and I loved seeing them become each other’s safe haven.
Abby comes from a difficult upbringing that left her questioning her worth and building walls around her heart. Now she’s studying to become a therapist, determined to help others break unhealthy patterns and heal from their past.
Enter Jake, her brother’s best friend and the one person she absolutely cannot stand. But when circumstances force them to live together, the tension between them quickly turns into something deeper. Jake slowly chips away at Abby’s walls, showing her that she deserves far more than she believes.
Watching their relationship evolve was so satisfying. The banter, the tension, the vulnerability, it all made their journey feel real and heartfelt. Their enemies-to-lovers dynamic was everything, and I loved seeing them become each other’s safe haven.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jack's world is shattered when doctors deliver an ultimatum: keep playing the game he loves and risk permanent nerve damage, or walk away from hockey forever. Dealing with the fallout of a difficult childhood and the responsibility of family, Jack is at a breaking point.
His journey intersects with Abby’s, whose own upbringing was defined by her father's resentment and a longing for belonging. The dynamic is further complicated by their shared circle—Abby is the sister of Jack’s best friend, Ian. When the two become roommates, the "close proximity" trope shines, allowing a slow-burn romance to develop naturally.
This was a touching story about healing and finding love in unexpected places. A solid 4-star read for anyone who loves a sports romance with deep emotional stakes.
His journey intersects with Abby’s, whose own upbringing was defined by her father's resentment and a longing for belonging. The dynamic is further complicated by their shared circle—Abby is the sister of Jack’s best friend, Ian. When the two become roommates, the "close proximity" trope shines, allowing a slow-burn romance to develop naturally.
This was a touching story about healing and finding love in unexpected places. A solid 4-star read for anyone who loves a sports romance with deep emotional stakes.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was able to read an advanced reader copy of this book thanks to Netgalley.
Ok, first of all, I didn't know I was a girl who was into hockey romances, but here we are.
I LOVE, "The Game Changer," by Lana Ferguson. I was so excited to see she had a second hockey themed romance that it didn't even register that it featured of of my absolute favorite characters from, "The Game Changer," Jack. To say I was excited to read this book is an understatement!
This book was everything I have come to love from Ferguson: it's sexy, funny, smart, entertaining as hell. Ferguson is able to write spicy scenes just as well as she writes touching and dramatic ones.
If you like a little spicy romance, hockey, and a book that makes you laugh out loud, add this one to your TBR list!
Ok, first of all, I didn't know I was a girl who was into hockey romances, but here we are.
I LOVE, "The Game Changer," by Lana Ferguson. I was so excited to see she had a second hockey themed romance that it didn't even register that it featured of of my absolute favorite characters from, "The Game Changer," Jack. To say I was excited to read this book is an understatement!
This book was everything I have come to love from Ferguson: it's sexy, funny, smart, entertaining as hell. Ferguson is able to write spicy scenes just as well as she writes touching and dramatic ones.
If you like a little spicy romance, hockey, and a book that makes you laugh out loud, add this one to your TBR list!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Lana Ferguson keeps her readers fed! Be it contemporary, paranormal, omegaverse, or anything else she writes, I will read it. Beyond one title that's audio only at the moment, I've read all the others that I can.
The Final Score for the time being, is my favorite Lana contemporary. The care that is given to Jack and Abby's romance is superb. It's not just the romance, but the attention to detail given to the driving forces in their lives that have molded them into who they are, is done with such intention. I'm hard pressed to think of another contemporary romance that has dealt with what Jack and Abby do and done it so well.
Everything in this book worked for me and it'll be one of my go to summer read recs.
The Final Score for the time being, is my favorite Lana contemporary. The care that is given to Jack and Abby's romance is superb. It's not just the romance, but the attention to detail given to the driving forces in their lives that have molded them into who they are, is done with such intention. I'm hard pressed to think of another contemporary romance that has dealt with what Jack and Abby do and done it so well.
Everything in this book worked for me and it'll be one of my go to summer read recs.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Final Score unfortunately felt like every other popular romance book to me. Nothing about it will probably stick out to me in the long run. The relationship was lacking throughout the entire book. I never felt any true chemistry that would have made it more interesting. There was a good amount of spice that could have been spent building their relationship in a more real way. Overall, I did not enjoy this one at all. After this and another Lana Ferguson, I think this author might not really be for me.
Thank you NetGalley, Berkley, & Lana Ferguson for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you NetGalley, Berkley, & Lana Ferguson for 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!
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I LOVED this book! I was looking for a hockey romance and it gave me everything I was hoping for - character growth, warmth, humor and the perfect amount of spice! My first by this author, but it won't be my last. Really loved the quick witted banter between the main characters and loved the supporting characters that added to the story in perfect ways. I laughed, smiled & got emotional during various times throughout, and I love when a book makes me FEEL. Thanks to #Netgalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.25 🌟
I didnt hate it or anything! I just loved The Game changer sooo much more. These characters are funny and have powerful mental health aspects that felt important. I do wish that was explored a little more in Abby but really loved how Jack's story unfolds. The ending is cute and ill always be a Lana Ferguson fan.
I didnt hate it or anything! I just loved The Game changer sooo much more. These characters are funny and have powerful mental health aspects that felt important. I do wish that was explored a little more in Abby but really loved how Jack's story unfolds. The ending is cute and ill always be a Lana Ferguson fan.
February 25, 2026
Hockey romance is really big right now. This book though is elite. Lana Ferguson is NOT afraid to take you there, whether it’s talking about mental health, family drama, or a romping good time in the bedroom. This book is perfect for a cold winter night snuggled up by the fire.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Want to read
November 9, 2025I’VE BEEN WAITING FOR JACK’S BOOK FOR FOREVER. HE’S BEEN MY MAN EVER SINCE HE FIRST GOT MENTION IN THE ‘THE GAME CHANGER’🤭🤭🤭
Review of advance copy received from Storygraph
Uní j usb
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
So fun! Loved reading this addition to Game Changer, anyone who loves a reverse grumpy/sunshine trope with some added depth (and spice) should read this! Lana Ferguson is a romance genius 🫶🏻
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
YUP. ATE THIS UP. can’t wait for this to be released!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
found out this was book 2 AFTER finishing it so i’m sad about that but i loved it regardless! so sweet & it actually felt realistic
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received this ebook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
This was my 4th Lana Ferguson book and think it might be my last. It's a me thing, I'm sure she is just great for other readers.
Thanks to Berkley & Edelweiss for an early copy.
Thanks to Berkley & Edelweiss for an early copy.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
<3 <3 <3 Jack
Did a re-read of The Game Changer before smashing through The Final Score in one evening. I loved the bits of Jack and Abby's banter already, but getting to know them more... chef's kiss. Absolutely my favorite couple. They've both been through so much trauma, and are able to be there for each other in ways not everyone could (it's handled really well, too).
I just... as a fellow ADHDer I really loved Jack.
Thanks to Berkely and PRH for the eARC.
Did a re-read of The Game Changer before smashing through The Final Score in one evening. I loved the bits of Jack and Abby's banter already, but getting to know them more... chef's kiss. Absolutely my favorite couple. They've both been through so much trauma, and are able to be there for each other in ways not everyone could (it's handled really well, too).
I just... as a fellow ADHDer I really loved Jack.
Thanks to Berkely and PRH for the eARC.
February 9, 2026
3.5 stars. If I’d read this back to back with The Game Changer, my experience might’ve been different. There’s a lot that carries over from the first book, especially Abby’s relationship with her father, that doesn’t get explained well here. It’s been two years since I read the earlier one and I didn’t remember the details of their falling out or even what he did. I could’ve used a little more exposition.
Abby and Jack are very sweet together, and seem to be a good match, but their relationship felt a little flat. There’s not a lot of hockey in this one, other than Jack dealing with an injury. An enjoyable book, although not my favorite Ferguson.
Thanks to Edelweiss, the publisher, and the author for the ARC to review. All opinions are my own.
Abby and Jack are very sweet together, and seem to be a good match, but their relationship felt a little flat. There’s not a lot of hockey in this one, other than Jack dealing with an injury. An enjoyable book, although not my favorite Ferguson.
Thanks to Edelweiss, the publisher, and the author for the ARC to review. All opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews