Another Chance: A Wildcatters Hockey Steamy Rom Com

Wildcatters Hockey #7

by Alexa Padgett

He’s her boss. Her heartbreak. Her only safe place.

Gunnar Evaldson built his hockey empire on discipline and grief. After losing his brother, he swore off distractions, attachments, and anything that might crack the armor around his heart.

Then Zaila Monroe walks in.

Brilliant. Blunt. Beautiful. The intern who sees through his control—and makes him feel again.

But Zaila’s already lost her father. And now her mother is dying. Abandoned once as a child, she’s terrified of being left again. So when Gunnar hesitates, she walks—before he can break her.

Only Gunnar won’t let her go. Not this time.

Grumpy boss. Forbidden love. Soul-deep grief. If you love USA Today Bestseller Alexa Padgett’s emotionally wrecked men who fall hard—and fierce women who fight for their hearts—this sports romance will wreck you in the best way.

Genres: Romance

302 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 26, 2025

About the author

Alexa Padgett writes contemporary romance filled with heart, heat, and overflowing with emotion. Her stories include hockey players, rockstars, and the women who find strength, love, and safety along the way. She believes romance should offer emotional refuge, a place to relax and feel understood. Alexa lives near Santa Fe, NM, where she spends her days writing, reading, hiking, and falling a little in love with each character she creates.

Reviews

[BookAddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

When it comes to hockey series, this crafty storyteller scores a hat trick! The Houston Wildcatters and their better half CATS feel like old friends by the time we reach this seventh romance in the series. I’ve been eagerly anticipating this story, and it's better than I ever dreamed.

Part of what I love so much about a sports romance is the found family aspect – the witty banter and good-natured ribbing between teammates but knowing that, no matter what, they always have your back. And now, we finally get to see the owner of the Wildcatters, Gunnar Evaldson, get his HEA!

Our team owner may be a self-made billionaire who rules the boardroom, but he has old scars from the past that are still fresh. Zaila Monroe may be an intern just out of college, but life experience has given her the strength, compassion, kindness, and wisdom of someone twice her age. It's really no surprise that what seems forbidden between these two should work so well.

This gifted storyteller ups the ante with nefarious players and unruly teammates, making for an entertaining, dramatic, heartfelt read while keeping the lively team banter and strong family element. By turns I was on pins and needles and then had my heartstrings masterfully manipulated. The wild array of feelings elicited was the best emotional ride ever.

This is one of those stories I wish I could experience for the first time all over again. At its heart this is a story about family and finding that one place to belong. About cherishing the good parts of the past and letting go of the rest, about learning to trust, and about finding forever with your other half. Humorous, steamy, and bursting with heart, this one is guaranteed to captivate your heart and linger long after the last page.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was crazy, fun, messy, sweet, sexy, and emotional - and I absolutely loved it!

Throughout the Wildcatters series Gunnar’s presence has been felt as the icy team owner and brilliant billionaire. In this 7th book in the series we get to see him still grieving the loss of his older brother from 30 years prior and how his brother’s character has driven him to build an inclusive and supportive organization as well as being involved in supporting the community. As an older character (mid 40s), Gunnar has so many facets that are intriguing and enticing. Let’s just say he fits the sexy silver fox role!

Zaila is a young woman who captures Gunnar’s attention from the moment she accidentally baptizes him with cola and then wows him as the new social media intern.

Despite a 20-year age gap, Gunnar and Zaila are well matched. She incredibly insightful in the social media campaigns she suggests and is quickly loved within the organization.

A 20-year age gap, a billionaire and the young intern and other factors are all obstacles their romance faces. I loved getting to see Gunnar fight his romantic interest in Zaila and then weaken when he is impressed by what she does. Gunnar’s reaction to Zaila is more than a physical attraction - she brings him a sense of peace and connection he hadn’t felt since losing his brother.

The romance is a slow burn physically, but emotionally and intellectually these two quickly build a strong bond. When trouble encroaches on their happiness they have to fight their own internal voices and instincts. Luckily the lovely CATS aren’t shy about stepping in and offering words of wisdom and a kick in the pants.

Actually the CATS giving Gunnar a proverbial kick in the pants and an emotional intervention was awesome. Those ladies are some of my favorite characters and have made this series special.

I received a free ARC from the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.

[Nancy (The Avid Reader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Chance is the seventh installment in the Wildcatters Hockey Series by Alexa Padgett. I have thoroughly enjoyed each book in the Wildcatters Hockey Series, and I must say that Another Chance was just as fantastic, if not better, than the others. Each book holds its own unique charm, featuring some of the most memorable characters ever crafted.

Another Chance revolves around the narratives of Gunnar Evaldson and Zaila Monroe. Gunnar, the owner of the Wildcatters, finds himself drawn to Zaila, who has just landed her dream role as the team's social media intern. An immediate chemistry sparks between them, yet any romantic involvement is strictly off-limits.

Gunnar grapples with the grief of losing his brother and has vowed never to let anyone get too close again. He fears experiencing the kind of loss that accompanied his brother's death.

Similarly, Zaila has also resolved to keep others at a distance due to her tumultuous past, having been abandoned as a child. Her life took a turn for the better when she was adopted at five by a wonderful couple who enveloped her in love. However, she recently lost her father, and now her mother is ill. Zaila has returned home to care for her mother and currently has no room in her life for relationships.

From the very first page to the last, Another Chance had me hooked. I appreciated getting to know the man behind the Wildcatters, the owner himself. I enjoyed that the story was presented through both Gunnar and Zaila’s perspectives. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat, eagerly anticipating whether Gunnar and Zaila would finally achieve the happily ever after they truly deserved.

I highly encourage you to pick up a copy of Another Chance today for yet another wonderful tale in the Wildcatters Hockey Series!

[autwenreads · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my first time reading from this author, and overall it was an okay read for me.

I liked the premise and the emotional setup, especially the grumpy boss / forbidden romance vibe, but it didn’t fully pull me in the way I hoped. The characters had depth and their grief was handled well, but at times the story felt a bit slow and I struggled to really connect on a deeper level. The romance had its moments, but it didn’t completely wow me.

Not a bad book by any means, just one that didn’t quite hit for me. I’d still be open to trying more from this author in the future.

Thank you to Wildfire Marketing Solutions and Alexa Padgett for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book seven in The Wildcatters Hockey series and it is Gunner and Zaila’s story and omg it is definitely a must read. When Gunner and Zaila meet for the first time she spills soda all over him and that starts a attraction and chemistry right from the beginning but Gunner is desperately trying to keep his distance from her especially as there is a big age difference between them. Zaila works as an intern at The Wildcatters Hockey Stadium and enjoys her job while hoping at the end to get a full time job but the only disadvantage is her attraction to her boss. Gunner is the owner of The Wildcatters and even though he is a fair man he can also be ruthless but his attraction to Zaila is now throwing him off his game but he can’t seem to stay away from her which is not good at all because now it is causing complications. When Gunner and Zaila eventually give in to how they feel it is totally explosive and just when things start to go well something happens that could tear them apart or make them stronger but with them both having baggage they will need to communicate better if they are ever going to to ever get the future together that they both want and deserve. Wow I read this book in one sitting as I just couldn’t put it down as it pulled me in right from the beginning and kept my attention throughout as it was so addictive. I have read every single book in this series and I have loved every single one but I have say that this is definitely my favourite book of the series. I definitely recommend you read this book and series and you will not be disappointed.

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gunnar and Zaila’s story is an age-gap, boss/employee romance. It includes plenty of angst, spicy encounters and back-stabbing rivals. Thankfully, Gunnar and Zaila find themselves with plenty of friends to offer support and advice. The Wildcatters and their partners are more like a found family than just friends, and they make sure to set Gunnar and Zaila on a path to a happily ever after.

Gunnar and Zaila are two wounded hearts haunted by grief. Perhaps that’s what attracts them to each other even more than their outer packages. The age gap is definitely a consideration for Gunnar, but even that concern is lessened when he gets to know Zaila. Her quick intelligence, her confidence and the way she stands up for herself are all very appealing to him. Her impressive, conversational skills and her social media savvy are also enticing, but they also make her a target of office rivals. Gunnar find himself unable to stay away from the beautiful intern and others are quick to notice. Zaila resists the advances of another colleague, not at all interested in dating, especially not someone other than Gunnar. Beyond her work, all of her time is taken up caring for her ailing mother. Her attraction to Gunnar and how well they work together is getting noticed and not in a good way. As they grow closer, others are making a plan to expose their relationship and cause trouble. The death of her mother, the nasty business at work and tumultuous emotions send Zaila reeling. We Gunnar step up or take a step back?

I wholeheartedly recommend this entrancing book.

[Angels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gunnar and Zaila's story is an age-gap, boss/employee romance filled with hot, sexy encounters, misunderstandings, dissension, love, and friendship. They find support and advice from their close-knit group of friends, the Wildcatters, who are more like a found family.

Despite their past traumas, Gunnar and Zaila are drawn to each other, with Gunnar admiring Zaila'sintelligence, confidence, and social media skills. However, their relationship faces challenges from office rivals and internal struggles. As they navigate their feelings and external pressures, they must decide if their connection is worth fighting for. Will Gunnar stand by Zaila's side through the turmoil, or will their love be tested beyond repair?

We love a good hockey romance, so we were excited to discover a new author who writes them. The story was enjoyable, and we found the characters, especially the interactions between the team members and the CATS, to be engaging and entertaining. The moments when they were dressing down Gunnar in a humorous yet respectful way were particularly amusing and made us laugh out loud.

We appreciated getting to know the main characters, Gunnar and Zalia, who both have experienced pain and suffering. Our hearts went out to them as they faced challenges and losses. The chemistry between the couple was beautifully portrayed.

Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed this story, its characters, and the emotional drama it presented.

[Kae TheUltimateProcrastination · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a sweet, easy and quick read. It's a workplace, age gap (20 years) story between Gunnar and Zaila, with a dose of grief, for both the MMC and FMC. I really enjoyed reading these two journey through a new relationship with their baggage, guilt and feelings of isolation as well as navigating peoples judgements vs being true to who they are etc. I liked the side character of Tim, although the CATs showed up for their crew, we didnt get enough from them but Tim was solid, always there to support Zaila. I loved the second setting of Sweden, what it represented and the depth and imagery it brought to the story.

I guess the only real issue I had with the book was it almost housed too many complexities. We had work place romance issues, two grieving main characters, acts of sabotage, age gap and a very ill loved one. For what felt like a quick story, perhaps the storyline felt too much. The 3rd act break up like scene in this book didnt read super smoothly for me either, I felt flummoxed as to how it happened over seemingly nothing. But upon reflection, perhaps this actually just makes the story all the more real.

Over all i liked the sweet and fairly easing reading nature of this book that brought in elements of Sweden for something more nuanced and grief for some depth.

[Zoe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another Chance
Wildcatters Hockey Series #7
Alexa Padgett

Zaila had worked her but off to land the internship of her dreams after finishing college.
Gunnar is a 45 year old owner of a hockey team who appears to have it all together despite harbouring deep grief.
This book had me flip flopping, one chapter I’m loving it the next I’m lost like I skipped something and had to reread looking for words that are not actually there. I really wanted to love it and at times I did. I mostly enjoyed the lead characters but the harp on about the ridiculous 20 year age gap was grating. Lots of grief and grieving from both main characters. It would be impossible not to have all the feelings as you read this. I enjoyed the Swedish scenery and it’s cameo.
I haven’t read a book by this author in a while, I had previously read book 2 in this Wildcatters Hockey series. This book can be read as a standalone novel with hea.
I received an arc of this book.
3 stars because the 20 year age gap with a 25 year old was too much for me.

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another Chance by Alexa Padgett is a heartfelt second-chance romance that captures the bittersweet pull of past love and new beginnings. The story follows two former lovers whose lives reconnect under unexpected circumstances, forcing them to confront old wounds, lingering feelings, and the chance for redemption. Padgett’s writing is emotional and engaging, blending tender moments with realistic conflict that made their journey feel authentic.

I appreciated the strong character development and the way the story explores themes of forgiveness, growth, and family ties without feeling overly dramatic. The chemistry reignites slowly and convincingly, leading to swoony scenes that balance heat with genuine connection. The pacing keeps things moving while allowing emotional beats to land effectively.

While second-chance tropes are familiar territory, Padgett’s nuanced characters and heartfelt storytelling make Another Chance stand out. Overall, I’m giving it four stars. It’s a touching and satisfying read perfect for fans of emotional contemporary romances with real heart.

[Marni Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfection absolute perfection, that’s exactly what this series is . Book 7 already , and I’m so freaking obsessed with The Wildcatters Hockey Series . . Each couples story really does have a piece of my heart ❤️. But something about Gunner and Zalias journey really did resonate with me . The struggles they went through, both together and apart the progression of their Relationship . How beautifully broken and flawed both were , which made them that much more relatable for me . . This is so much more than your typical age gap and workplace romance. It’s a journey filled with love and passion and pain , grief and healing and hope and second chances . It’s angsty and steamy , it has drama and obstacles and family and friendships and it’s guaranteed to make you smile , make you laugh out loud, have you sobbing like a baby and keep you cheering so freaking hard from beginning to end . I was here for it all and oh man did I adore every single moment.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 7th book in this impressive series, and this is Gunnar and Zaila’s story.
Gunnar built his hockey empire of discipline and grief, after the loss of his brother, while Zaila sees through his façade, and makes him feel again. Zaila has already lost her father, and now her mom is dying, and suffering from abandonment issues, she walks before Gunnar can break her heart, but he refuses to let her go. Can these two heal each other, and move on with their lives?
This is a well written easy to read, slow burn romance, with family, friendships, emotions, heartbreak, loss, grief, an age gap, boss / employee, challenges, healing, humour, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and unpredictable, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gunnar is the owner of the Wildcatters who keeps himself since the passing of his brother even though it was years earlier. When he meets Zaila, who was recently hired by the team, she inspires feelings in him he has never felt before however they have so many obstacles as not only is she his employee, but she is younger than him as well.

The opportunity to work with the Wildcatters is everything Zaila wanted. Due to her past and the emotional turmoil, she is going through in the present she doesn’t have the time or energy for love especially with her boss who has emotional scars of his own.

Gunnar and Zaila take us on an emotional journey as they have so much to overcome both in the past and in the present. Mistakes are made but they are surrounded by a great group of friends who step in when needed and if anyone deserves happiness it is this captivating couple.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Another Chance: A Wildcatters Hockey Steamy Rom Com by Alexa Padgett. Gunnar Evaldson is all control, grief, and hockey intensity, and Zaila Monroe is smart, blunt, and unafraid to push back. Watching them navigate their connection while carrying so much emotional baggage kept me completely hooked. Every scene between them felt raw and honest, and I couldn’t put the book down.

I loved how Zaila stands her ground even when Gunnar’s intensity is overwhelming, and how Gunnar slowly learns to open up again without losing himself. Their story is emotional, steamy, and sprinkled with just enough humor to balance the heaviness. I was invested in both of them from start to finish, and the way their growth together unfolded felt earned. It’s a great addition to your book collection.
Happy Reading...enjoy!

[Bernie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Simple but effective..a storyline between older man and younger woman, Gunnrr and Zaila. Their situation has its problems, not just because of the age di5 but also she works for him. He is the Wildcatters owner. Workplace relationship and issues are merging together in force as others influence their standing..and she has the most to lose. Whilst keeping their distance, they keep their relationship quiet and that in itself has repercussions. In addition they both share personal fears, fro opposite sides as hevfwars she will leave and she fears being left. Life is difficult but their personalities make it harder and they both need to communicate better and be honest.
Enjoyed reading it.

[Jackie Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Chance is Gunnar Evaldson and Zaila Monroe’s workplace, age-gap romance. It’s book seven in the Wildcatters Hockey Series and I loved everything about it from the easy to love characters to the emotional roller coaster of a journey.
Gunnar is the owner of the Wildcatters and Zaila has just started her dream job as social media intern for the Wildcatters. From the moment they meet sparks fly and it’s not long before they realise they want more than a working relationship. So what happens when lines get crossed…..
This story touched me on so many levels and I was happy I joined them on their roller coaster of a ride. I fell hard and fast for Gunnar and I adored Zaila but it was watching the Wildcatters team join ranks as this couple moved from workers to lovers.

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

This fast-paced novel has all the romance, tension, and humor found in the previous books in this collection as rookie Zaila makes an entrance at the Wildcatters game that Gunnar will never forget. Apart from his soda-soaked shirt, his hormones come to immediate attention when he sets his eyes on the new intern. Despite their difference in age and a forbidden workplace romance, Gunnar cannot help himself and keeps finding excuses to check up on Zaila. Jealousy abounds, and so do competition and glory seeking, almost creating a disaster of epic proportions. With a little help from the CATS the novel, a copy of which I received as a gift, comes to a heartwarming conclusion, and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Floraljoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great end to the series:
This book was fun and entertaining, yet also deeply emotional and brought tears to my eyes. I have loved every book in this romantic hockey series and have been curious about the mysterious and aloof team owner. It was lovely getting to know both Gunner and Zaila and watching them overcome life's challenges. Their journey to HEA was a bumpy one, but despite the odds, they were perfect for one another.
There were a couple of inconsistencies, but all in all, this was a satisfying and enjoyable ending to an amazing series. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Sheila Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alexa Padgett writes with such heart and it shows with every book she pens. Her characters are multi-faceted and her plots are interesting and entertaining. From the first page, a reader is engaged, and even though the outline is: girl (Laila) meets guy Gunnar); girl and guy interact and become a couple; and they eventually find their HEA ending, how Laila and Gunnar get there is absolute writing perfection! The novel is peppered with charming conversation between Laila and Gunnar, supported by the always funny CATS. I'm not sure if this is the final book for a delightful series, but I hope not. And I don't even care about hockey! LOL

[Kathleen]

Gunnar the owner of the hockey team has done everything to build his team. But he keeps himself protected. No one gets too close.
Zalia is getting the job of her, and her father's, dream. PR/Marketing intern with the Wildcatters.
She has an auspicious introduction to the teams owner.
Their connection is immediate. He is intrigued with her intellect and her quick wit.
As these two navigate the 20 year age difference, the employer/employee, and their own relationship baggage, a friendship develops .
This is a great addition to the series. It's nice to see Gunnar let his guard down.

[P · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another Chance ARC by Alexa Padgett: 4 stars
Zaila/Gunner - a lot of chemistry, a big age gap, and so many why nots. This story is so down to earth, with real life development. I have to say I was skeptical of their age difference, but their story made me understand — life is not a guarantee and we need to cherish today and embrace love for the rare gift that it is.
Favorite quote: “But most of all, she taught me love. How to give it freely, and how to accept it when it’s offered.”
—PTATORS

[Stephanie Ditmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Gunnar and have been waiting for his story. Zaila finally got her dream job and is so excited to start this new chapter of her life. It’s instant chemistry from the start with these two and amazing banter I loved. I really enjoyed their story, finding love and taking a chance on yourself and the one you love. Great read.

[Erin Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Star Review Another Chance (Wildcatters Hockey #7) by Alexa Padgett

This is Gunnar Evaldson and Zaila Monroe workplace romance as was a good example of this genre.

This was a highly emotional story that got to me on numerous levels. The characters are complex and their story the same.

Alexa Padgett is a relatively new author to me but what I have read I have enjoyed.

[Sandie Bradley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gunnar Evaldson is the kind of brooding, disciplined hockey hero you instantly fall for his grief and rigid control make his emotional journey deeply compelling. Enter Zaila Monroe: sharp, fearless, and refreshingly honest. Their chemistry crackles from the moment they meet, and watching Zaila dismantle Gunnar’s carefully built walls is pure romance gold.

[M G · Rating 5 out of 5]

The seventh in the series sees Gunnar, the owner of an ice hockey team, and, intern, Zaila giving us a great read. Both have issues regarding family grief and throw themselves into work but the chemistry is felt from the onset and things just get crazy. An age difference romance with a great story line and characters, once you pick the book up you won’t want to put it down!

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It had a lot going for it with sports, jealousy, strong women, men with emotions, love and grief. That’s a lot for one book but the author did a great job putting it all in this book. The characters were all well written and you felt you knew them they were believable. I highly recommend this book for a great winter read.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A forbidden romance and a whirlwind of events. Its like Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde as Gunner waivers on what he wants. Shouting it to the world or hanging back, worried about the professional.consequences. Indecision makes Zaila walk away before her heart breaks even more.

[Nati]

A great series with a great ending. Gunnar and Zaila’s story is full of emotion, conflict, friendship and so much more. The age gap difference, their loses and the grief they had endured make the relationship more powerful even with all the odds against them. Will miss the WildCatters.

[Kenneth Lingenfelter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gunnar is the owner of a ice hockey team that is his priority. An intern Zaila starts working and the two have chemistry from the start. Both have issues from family grief. An age difference romance with a great story line and characters.

[Gladys · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book really gets you up in your feels as it sends your emotions on a roller coaster ride. I really liked Gunner and Zaila. They had an undeniable attraction and created lots of sparks and spice. The story itself was quite potent as it was as deeply poignant as it was emotionally moving.