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Scoring Chances #5
Cheap Shot
The last thing Luke Crawford needs is to fall in love with anyone …
He’s got a good thing going as the Boston Harriers’ enforcer, and he likes his classic rides and quiet house to himself. Getting off with strangers is fine, but nobody is going to come in and mess up his hard-won peace.
Least of all Vintage Jersey Guy, who comes to every home game to chirp Luke in the penalty box.
Sebastian Breckon left a thriving business in New York to help his sister, a single mom struggling to manage a demanding job and a kid with a chronic health condition.
However, Sebastian’s new flower shop in Boston isn’t taking off like he planned. Thankfully, he can blow off steam by chirping Crawford for the cheap shot he laid on Sebastian’s best friend and captain of the New York team.
Then Luke unexpectedly lands on Sebastian’s doorstep for a hookup and hatred turns to heat.
As injuries pile up, the team struggles to clinch a playoff spot, and Luke’s upcoming contract is suddenly on the line, Sebastian feels like the only solid thing in Luke’s life.
Except Luke doesn’t do romance. Especially not the white-picket-fence type.
But when Sebastian’s family’s struggles worsen right as the Harriers need Luke to play his best, he’ll have to decide if he’s ready to take the leap and convince Sebastian to build a future together.
CONTENT
Neglectful and absent parents and a child with a life-threatening condition.
He’s got a good thing going as the Boston Harriers’ enforcer, and he likes his classic rides and quiet house to himself. Getting off with strangers is fine, but nobody is going to come in and mess up his hard-won peace.
Least of all Vintage Jersey Guy, who comes to every home game to chirp Luke in the penalty box.
Sebastian Breckon left a thriving business in New York to help his sister, a single mom struggling to manage a demanding job and a kid with a chronic health condition.
However, Sebastian’s new flower shop in Boston isn’t taking off like he planned. Thankfully, he can blow off steam by chirping Crawford for the cheap shot he laid on Sebastian’s best friend and captain of the New York team.
Then Luke unexpectedly lands on Sebastian’s doorstep for a hookup and hatred turns to heat.
As injuries pile up, the team struggles to clinch a playoff spot, and Luke’s upcoming contract is suddenly on the line, Sebastian feels like the only solid thing in Luke’s life.
Except Luke doesn’t do romance. Especially not the white-picket-fence type.
But when Sebastian’s family’s struggles worsen right as the Harriers need Luke to play his best, he’ll have to decide if he’s ready to take the leap and convince Sebastian to build a future together.
CONTENT
Neglectful and absent parents and a child with a life-threatening condition.
544 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 10, 2026
106 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
Brigham Vaughn
83 books827 followersBrigham Vaughn is on the adventure of a lifetime as a full-time writer. She devours books at an alarming rate and hasn’t let her short arms and long torso stop her from doing yoga. She makes a killer key lime pie, hates green peppers, and loves wine tasting tours. A collector of vintage Nancy Drew books and green glassware, she enjoys poking around in antique shops and refinishing thrift store furniture. An avid photographer, she dreams of traveling the world and she can’t wait to discover everything else life has to offer her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
April 18, 2026
B / 4 stars.
Big, brooding bruiser Luke Crawford has featured in most of the books in Brigham Vaughn’s Scoring Chances series (and in some of their other books, too) and in Cheap Shot, it’s finally time for him to take centre stage. He’s a defenceman for the Boston Harriers, with a – not undeserved - reputation for fighting on the ice and being a gruff, moody arsehole both on and off of it; he’s also thirty-five, has been feeling the toll the game has taken on his body for a while now and is starting to give some serious thought as to what comes after he retires. One thing he does know – he’s not interested in settling down to that whole white-picket-fence-and-kids thing that so many of his teammates and other players have; casual hook-ups are perfectly fine and he doesn’t plan on changing that.
Sebastian Breckon is a successful small-business owner who moved to Boston from New York in order to support his sister, who became a single parent when her husband left her because he couldn’t deal with their five-year-old daughter’s chronic illness. He has two florist shops in NYC and now one in Boston, and between running his business and being there for Brie and Harper, he doesn’t have a great deal of time for himself. But that’s okay – he loves what he does, he loves his family and quite honestly, quick hook-ups work for scratching those itches just fine.
At pretty much every home game, Luke – who invariably ends up in the penalty box at least once per game – is the recipient of some seriously annoying shit-talking from someone in the crowd he’s named “Vintage Jersey Guy” – because he always shows up wearing a vintage jersey sporting the logo and team colours of the New York Rockets, one of the Harriers’ biggest rivals. It was bad enough when he only had to put up with the chirps a couple of times a year when the Harriers played in New York but now it’s every single home game – the guy must’ve moved to Boston, and has made it his life’s purpose to be a dick to Luke.
Buzzing with restlesness after the game and knowing sex is pretty much the only thing that will bring him down when he’s like this, Luke hits the apps to find someone he can get off with before he heads home for the night. Luke is into men as well as women, but his liking guys isn’t something he’s ever told his teammates; he knows they’d be accepting but it’s none of their damn business and he likes to keep his private life private. Pickings are slim – apps are becoming harder to use because they’re overloaded with bots and fakes – but a new profile catches his eye, so he reaches out. The guy is a more than a bit snarky, but a blowjob is a blowjob and he’s up for what Luke needs.
Luke arrives at the address he’s been given, a bit confused to find it’s a… florists shop? And is fucking pissed when he discovers the guy he’s been messaging is none other than Vintage Jersey Guy. Luke really should just turn around and leave – but he doesn’t; a mouth is a mouth after all, and Luke can see that VJG – Sebastian – is just as pissed off as he is. They’re both weighing up the pros and cons of either getting off with a guy who hates him, or not getting off at all – and horniness wins out. And of course, what’s supposed to be a one-off doesn’t stay that way.
I enjoyed the way the slow-growing affection between Luke and Sebastian develops here, and their push-pull dynamic is pretty entertaining. They don’t like each other, but the sex that first time was great and as they’re both well aware of where they stand with each other, why not keep it going for a while? Neither man is looking for anything long-term or permanent – they’re both busy and prioritise their jobs over their personal lives - so having a source of semi-regular sex with someone close by works for both of them. Their chemistry crackles and they banter and chirp each other endlessly – even during sex – which doesn’t change as the relationship evolves, other than to become a bit less barbed and a bit more affectionate.
Their emotional connection develops slowly as, after a few hook-ups, Sebastian and Luke start to hang out, eating together, watching hockey games on TV (Sebastian played when he was younger so has plenty of opinions to share!) and Luke steps up to help Sebastian with a family emergency. I liked that the author takes their time with this part of the story; the move from just hooking up to friendship to more happens gradually so that by the time the guys realise what’s going on, they’re already in the middle of it.
Luke is written as aromantic – which is something he kind of discovers about himself as the story progresses. He knows he doesn’t feel the need to fall in love or have a relationship but has never needed to define it and doesn’t like or need a label; it’s just who he is and what he wants, and that’s that. But aromanticism is a spectrum, and it’s clear that Luke is becoming emotionally invested in Sebastian, even though it’s not something he’s ever looked for. I liked that they’re both very honest about what they want and expect from each other and what a relationship might look like for them given where they’re at in their lives and careers. They’re both on the same page given their dedication to their jobs and their individual need for space sometimes, and I really appreciated Luke’s character growth as he works through his feelings about relationships, who he is, and starts forming a real plan for his future. His Idgaf attitude is kind of refreshing – he’s closed-off and grouchy, but he’s honest about it and never pretends to be anything he’s not - and I liked Sebastian’s quiet strength – he’s a total sweetheart, but he doesn’t take any crap and gives as good as he gets.
The secondary cast includes many of the series regulars – Connor and Jesse, Thad, Catherine – and Harper is a believable five-year old. I continue to enjoy the team dynamics; it’s clear these guys care for and appreciate one another despite their trash-talking. On the downside, a couple of plot points are a bit too convenient, and the story loses its momentum towards the end so it feels like the story kinda limps over the finish line, plus the plot point about Sebastian’s best friend, who was injured by Luke on the ice years earlier, feels slightly redundant.
Nonetheless, Cheap Shot is a solidly entertaining, funny and sexy character-driven romance and I enjoyed it. I’ll definitely pick up the next book (which sounds like it'll have a bit of a Heated Rivalry vibe) when it comes out later this year.
Big, brooding bruiser Luke Crawford has featured in most of the books in Brigham Vaughn’s Scoring Chances series (and in some of their other books, too) and in Cheap Shot, it’s finally time for him to take centre stage. He’s a defenceman for the Boston Harriers, with a – not undeserved - reputation for fighting on the ice and being a gruff, moody arsehole both on and off of it; he’s also thirty-five, has been feeling the toll the game has taken on his body for a while now and is starting to give some serious thought as to what comes after he retires. One thing he does know – he’s not interested in settling down to that whole white-picket-fence-and-kids thing that so many of his teammates and other players have; casual hook-ups are perfectly fine and he doesn’t plan on changing that.
Sebastian Breckon is a successful small-business owner who moved to Boston from New York in order to support his sister, who became a single parent when her husband left her because he couldn’t deal with their five-year-old daughter’s chronic illness. He has two florist shops in NYC and now one in Boston, and between running his business and being there for Brie and Harper, he doesn’t have a great deal of time for himself. But that’s okay – he loves what he does, he loves his family and quite honestly, quick hook-ups work for scratching those itches just fine.
At pretty much every home game, Luke – who invariably ends up in the penalty box at least once per game – is the recipient of some seriously annoying shit-talking from someone in the crowd he’s named “Vintage Jersey Guy” – because he always shows up wearing a vintage jersey sporting the logo and team colours of the New York Rockets, one of the Harriers’ biggest rivals. It was bad enough when he only had to put up with the chirps a couple of times a year when the Harriers played in New York but now it’s every single home game – the guy must’ve moved to Boston, and has made it his life’s purpose to be a dick to Luke.
Buzzing with restlesness after the game and knowing sex is pretty much the only thing that will bring him down when he’s like this, Luke hits the apps to find someone he can get off with before he heads home for the night. Luke is into men as well as women, but his liking guys isn’t something he’s ever told his teammates; he knows they’d be accepting but it’s none of their damn business and he likes to keep his private life private. Pickings are slim – apps are becoming harder to use because they’re overloaded with bots and fakes – but a new profile catches his eye, so he reaches out. The guy is a more than a bit snarky, but a blowjob is a blowjob and he’s up for what Luke needs.
Luke arrives at the address he’s been given, a bit confused to find it’s a… florists shop? And is fucking pissed when he discovers the guy he’s been messaging is none other than Vintage Jersey Guy. Luke really should just turn around and leave – but he doesn’t; a mouth is a mouth after all, and Luke can see that VJG – Sebastian – is just as pissed off as he is. They’re both weighing up the pros and cons of either getting off with a guy who hates him, or not getting off at all – and horniness wins out. And of course, what’s supposed to be a one-off doesn’t stay that way.
I enjoyed the way the slow-growing affection between Luke and Sebastian develops here, and their push-pull dynamic is pretty entertaining. They don’t like each other, but the sex that first time was great and as they’re both well aware of where they stand with each other, why not keep it going for a while? Neither man is looking for anything long-term or permanent – they’re both busy and prioritise their jobs over their personal lives - so having a source of semi-regular sex with someone close by works for both of them. Their chemistry crackles and they banter and chirp each other endlessly – even during sex – which doesn’t change as the relationship evolves, other than to become a bit less barbed and a bit more affectionate.
Their emotional connection develops slowly as, after a few hook-ups, Sebastian and Luke start to hang out, eating together, watching hockey games on TV (Sebastian played when he was younger so has plenty of opinions to share!) and Luke steps up to help Sebastian with a family emergency. I liked that the author takes their time with this part of the story; the move from just hooking up to friendship to more happens gradually so that by the time the guys realise what’s going on, they’re already in the middle of it.
Luke is written as aromantic – which is something he kind of discovers about himself as the story progresses. He knows he doesn’t feel the need to fall in love or have a relationship but has never needed to define it and doesn’t like or need a label; it’s just who he is and what he wants, and that’s that. But aromanticism is a spectrum, and it’s clear that Luke is becoming emotionally invested in Sebastian, even though it’s not something he’s ever looked for. I liked that they’re both very honest about what they want and expect from each other and what a relationship might look like for them given where they’re at in their lives and careers. They’re both on the same page given their dedication to their jobs and their individual need for space sometimes, and I really appreciated Luke’s character growth as he works through his feelings about relationships, who he is, and starts forming a real plan for his future. His Idgaf attitude is kind of refreshing – he’s closed-off and grouchy, but he’s honest about it and never pretends to be anything he’s not - and I liked Sebastian’s quiet strength – he’s a total sweetheart, but he doesn’t take any crap and gives as good as he gets.
The secondary cast includes many of the series regulars – Connor and Jesse, Thad, Catherine – and Harper is a believable five-year old. I continue to enjoy the team dynamics; it’s clear these guys care for and appreciate one another despite their trash-talking. On the downside, a couple of plot points are a bit too convenient, and the story loses its momentum towards the end so it feels like the story kinda limps over the finish line, plus the plot point about Sebastian’s best friend, who was injured by Luke on the ice years earlier, feels slightly redundant.
Nonetheless, Cheap Shot is a solidly entertaining, funny and sexy character-driven romance and I enjoyed it. I’ll definitely pick up the next book (which sounds like it'll have a bit of a Heated Rivalry vibe) when it comes out later this year.
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April 11, 2026I love an antagonistic relationship that slowly softens and the nuance around aromanticism was great. The ending was a bit flat but overall this is one of the better entries in this series.
April 14, 2026
3.5* rounded up. Not my favourite but it was still very good. I think maybe I had very high hopes for Luke and it ate into my enjoyment. I think it was the end that fizzled it out a bit for me as the first 40/60% was really good.
I am also fed up of the O'Shea's but that's probably a me thing. I just think that they take too much space and I don't have much interest in the extended family and whatever they are up to.
I am also fed up of the O'Shea's but that's probably a me thing. I just think that they take too much space and I don't have much interest in the extended family and whatever they are up to.
April 11, 2026
FINALLY. I have been waiting for Luke's book since I first read his name. my obsession with this man? not healthy. at all. and here we are and FINALLY i get a whole book of Luke fucking Crawford who is everything to me. and it was perfect!! I love the story. I love HIM. I loved Sebastian for him. I cried because I love Luke so much. I cried over Harper. I cried like a fucking baby over Luke 1000 games. honestly I feel all kinds of things. future Luke? sign me UP. also for Brigham to not only already have me obsessed with Luke also make him HANDY?? the guy can FIX A HOUSE?? I need to lay down for 3-5 business days after this. what a book. what a MAN.
April 18, 2026
Classic Brigham is back! I have made no qualms about not really enjoying the Boston series, mainly because I didn't really buy into the brand slash backstory of the twins. But this book brought everything I love most about her writing back to the forefront. I love the way she writes characters that hate each other that slowly come around as they grow on each other like mold. Luke and Sebastian are genuinely perfect for each other, I don't always buy how they're going to fit into each other's lives while one is traveling constantly, but it was set up for success here, and I'm impressed we got a storyline with kids without either of them being parents lmao. All of the Harper scenes were perfection, I love the idea of using her and her reframing of Luke from bully to protector as the first bridge of improving his image, at least in Sebastian's eyes.
There were still some things that landed a little clunkily, especially surrounding Nicky. Does he hate Luke, does he blame Luke, how are we supposed to feel about Luke through it? I feel like the premise of the book was centered around hating Luke, but then in the interest of making him someone we'd still root for, and also keeping Nicky precious bc he's the bridge to the inevitable New York series starting next, it got weird and no one was quite willing to stand ten toes down, the confession to Nicky had such a weird tone that received no followup, and I'm just left in the mud about how it's intended for me to feel about the whole thing.
But yes, this truly felt like a return to form, I'm excited to get a little heated rivalry action out of Tanner and Leif, and then we wait for the most obvious but still exciting announcement ever of Nicky getting a book to start the New York saga.
Thank you to Neon for an e-arc of this book, this is my honest review.
There were still some things that landed a little clunkily, especially surrounding Nicky. Does he hate Luke, does he blame Luke, how are we supposed to feel about Luke through it? I feel like the premise of the book was centered around hating Luke, but then in the interest of making him someone we'd still root for, and also keeping Nicky precious bc he's the bridge to the inevitable New York series starting next, it got weird and no one was quite willing to stand ten toes down, the confession to Nicky had such a weird tone that received no followup, and I'm just left in the mud about how it's intended for me to feel about the whole thing.
But yes, this truly felt like a return to form, I'm excited to get a little heated rivalry action out of Tanner and Leif, and then we wait for the most obvious but still exciting announcement ever of Nicky getting a book to start the New York saga.
Thank you to Neon for an e-arc of this book, this is my honest review.
April 17, 2026
Rating: 4
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 3rd person
Genre: sport romance, MM
Tropes / tags: hate to love, opposites attract, hookup to more
Trust a hockey player to chirp his 'enemy' in the bedroom the way the 'enemy' chirps him on the ice!
I honestly loved the tension between Luke and Sebastian! Neither of them really knew what to do when Luke showed up in Sebastian's flower shop as his anonymous hookup, but it didn't take much for them to convince themselves that they might as well go ahead as planned. Their dynamic was entertaining, and it was fun to see Luke 'chirp' Sebastian during their hookups the same way Sebastian kept chirping him during his games. Their banter was pretty much endless, and the chemistry was intense between them.
It was great seeing the affection that slowly grew between them while casually hooking up, and I liked that the foundation of their relationship never changed. They kept antagonising each other, just in a softer way once the feelings started to emerge between them. Luke could be so gruff and closed off, but there were a lot of other sides to him as well, and I loved seeing him with Sebastian's niece Harper. He was great with her and it was hilarious how he was her favourite player, much to Sebastian's chagrin.
Luke and Sebastian were both fiercely independent, and they had their concerns about relationships. They were brutally honest with each other though, and I really enjoyed the aromantic rep and how Luke communicated what a relationship with him might look like. I wasn't entirely sure at first how these two would go from hating each other to getting a HEA together, but the way their relationship developed was perfect for them.
Cheap Shot was an entertaining read and I loved Luke and Sebastian together! The line between hate and love was thin when it came to them, and I had a lot of fun seeing them navigate the unexpected attraction between them. Sebastian was such a sweetheart, but he could also put Luke in his place when he needed to, and he was exactly the kind of partner that Luke needed. I have so much love for this series, and I can't wait to see what's coming next in Brigham Vaughn's hockey universe!
-
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 3rd person
Genre: sport romance, MM
Tropes / tags: hate to love, opposites attract, hookup to more
Trust a hockey player to chirp his 'enemy' in the bedroom the way the 'enemy' chirps him on the ice!
I honestly loved the tension between Luke and Sebastian! Neither of them really knew what to do when Luke showed up in Sebastian's flower shop as his anonymous hookup, but it didn't take much for them to convince themselves that they might as well go ahead as planned. Their dynamic was entertaining, and it was fun to see Luke 'chirp' Sebastian during their hookups the same way Sebastian kept chirping him during his games. Their banter was pretty much endless, and the chemistry was intense between them.
It was great seeing the affection that slowly grew between them while casually hooking up, and I liked that the foundation of their relationship never changed. They kept antagonising each other, just in a softer way once the feelings started to emerge between them. Luke could be so gruff and closed off, but there were a lot of other sides to him as well, and I loved seeing him with Sebastian's niece Harper. He was great with her and it was hilarious how he was her favourite player, much to Sebastian's chagrin.
Luke and Sebastian were both fiercely independent, and they had their concerns about relationships. They were brutally honest with each other though, and I really enjoyed the aromantic rep and how Luke communicated what a relationship with him might look like. I wasn't entirely sure at first how these two would go from hating each other to getting a HEA together, but the way their relationship developed was perfect for them.
Cheap Shot was an entertaining read and I loved Luke and Sebastian together! The line between hate and love was thin when it came to them, and I had a lot of fun seeing them navigate the unexpected attraction between them. Sebastian was such a sweetheart, but he could also put Luke in his place when he needed to, and he was exactly the kind of partner that Luke needed. I have so much love for this series, and I can't wait to see what's coming next in Brigham Vaughn's hockey universe!
-
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
April 17, 2026
4.25 ⭐
Cheap Shot by Brigham Vaughn is the fifth book in the Scoring Chances series, where we finally get Luke’s story and his HEA. 🤗
Luke and Sebastian are both complex characters in a way that makes them believable and easy to root for. Sebastian has a lot going on in his life, from running his flower shops to supporting his sister and caring for his niece. Still, he is steady, patient, and caring, giving off the kind of strength that makes him very easy to like. Luke, as we already know, comes across as pretty closed-off and rough around the edges, but as the story progresses, we get to see more of what is underneath that grumpy exterior. We get to see a softer, more thoughtful side of him. 🥰
I really enjoyed Luke and Sebastian’s dynamic. ❤️ What starts with a lot of tension and irritation, or even antagonism, slowly builds into something more complicated and meaningful. There is tension, humor, and a genuine emotional connection between them. The shift from something casual and purely physical into a real connection feels natural and not at all rushed. A big part of that is how honest and open they are with each other. Even when things are uncertain or messy, they actually talk things through. 🥰 ❤️ Their chemistry is strong throughout, and I love that the sharp banter is a constant from beginning to end, but there are also softer, sweeter moments between them.
What I really loved was Luke’s growth throughout the book. Watching him work through his feelings about relationships, his identity, and his future in and after hockey uncovers layers I didn’t even suspect he had. I really appreciate the way the aromantic representation is handled… and how it shapes their relationship in a way that feels true to both characters rather than forcing them into something that does not fit.
Harper, Sebastian’s niece, is such a sweet kid and brings a lot of warmth to the story. I loved Luke’s interactions with her. She brings out a different, softer side of him, and their moments together are genuinely sweet.
Although there are a lot of side characters, they do not take attention away from Luke and Sebastian. The team especially helps create a sense of community and found family.❤️
As with all of Brigham’s stories, or at least the ones I have read (all the hockey ones 😉 ), this is a romance with a strong focus on character growth and emotional development rather than big plot moments. It takes its time building the relationship, which feels true to real life, and that slower build really works here.
I am looking forward to Tanner and Leif...and I am keeping my fingers crossed that Nicky will also get a HEA. 🥰 ❤️
I received a copy of this book from Neon Rainbow Reviews, and this is my unbiased review.
Cheap Shot by Brigham Vaughn is the fifth book in the Scoring Chances series, where we finally get Luke’s story and his HEA. 🤗
Luke and Sebastian are both complex characters in a way that makes them believable and easy to root for. Sebastian has a lot going on in his life, from running his flower shops to supporting his sister and caring for his niece. Still, he is steady, patient, and caring, giving off the kind of strength that makes him very easy to like. Luke, as we already know, comes across as pretty closed-off and rough around the edges, but as the story progresses, we get to see more of what is underneath that grumpy exterior. We get to see a softer, more thoughtful side of him. 🥰
I really enjoyed Luke and Sebastian’s dynamic. ❤️ What starts with a lot of tension and irritation, or even antagonism, slowly builds into something more complicated and meaningful. There is tension, humor, and a genuine emotional connection between them. The shift from something casual and purely physical into a real connection feels natural and not at all rushed. A big part of that is how honest and open they are with each other. Even when things are uncertain or messy, they actually talk things through. 🥰 ❤️ Their chemistry is strong throughout, and I love that the sharp banter is a constant from beginning to end, but there are also softer, sweeter moments between them.
What I really loved was Luke’s growth throughout the book. Watching him work through his feelings about relationships, his identity, and his future in and after hockey uncovers layers I didn’t even suspect he had. I really appreciate the way the aromantic representation is handled… and how it shapes their relationship in a way that feels true to both characters rather than forcing them into something that does not fit.
Harper, Sebastian’s niece, is such a sweet kid and brings a lot of warmth to the story. I loved Luke’s interactions with her. She brings out a different, softer side of him, and their moments together are genuinely sweet.
Although there are a lot of side characters, they do not take attention away from Luke and Sebastian. The team especially helps create a sense of community and found family.❤️
As with all of Brigham’s stories, or at least the ones I have read (all the hockey ones 😉 ), this is a romance with a strong focus on character growth and emotional development rather than big plot moments. It takes its time building the relationship, which feels true to real life, and that slower build really works here.
I am looking forward to Tanner and Leif...and I am keeping my fingers crossed that Nicky will also get a HEA. 🥰 ❤️
I received a copy of this book from Neon Rainbow Reviews, and this is my unbiased review.
April 16, 2026
This may be my favorite in the series. Both Luke (34, NHL defenseman for the Harriers) and Sebastian (33, small business owner of three florist shops) are relationship adverse for different reasons, and I liked how their enemies-to-lovers played out over the course of the book. It was a nice change of pace to have to early 30-somethings actually talk through their argument after the “jersey incident” and not go down the typical lack of simple communication trope. The development of Luke in particular was well crafted. Overall a decent read.
Oh, and did I tear up at the 1,000 game celebration for Luke? Yes. I might have.
Oh, and did I tear up at the 1,000 game celebration for Luke? Yes. I might have.
April 18, 2026
I love this book, Sebastian and Luke are so funny and hot together.
Love enemies to lovers trope and this one so much fun the way Sebastian keeps insulting Luke during the games
Can't wait for Tanner's book
Love enemies to lovers trope and this one so much fun the way Sebastian keeps insulting Luke during the games
Can't wait for Tanner's book
April 11, 2026
Maybe 2.75? I read this captive on an airplane, but I skimmed a lot. It was just kind of boring? I’ve read a lot of Brigham Vaughn’s books now, but they all seem to follow the same formula- fairly dry characters who speak in very bland declarative statements, with little humor or excitement. & I appreciate the intent to give time to lots of different identities and orientations, but it sometimes beggars belief a bit. Perhaps I have outgrown these books. 🤷🏻♀️
April 13, 2026
A mixed read overall, with both enjoyable and less engaging parts. There was a lot more hockey focus and game detail than expected, and the story felt too long at times. The side storyline with the sister and niece took up too much space, and I didn’t find the main couple very interesting.
April 11, 2026
Cheap Shot by Brigham Vaughn is the 5th book in her Scoring chances series. It is the story of a professional hockey player and a fan that constantly chirps him and how they meet and eventually fall in love. Sebastian Breckon has been best friends with NHL hockey player Nicholas Calhoun since they went to school together. He lived in New York City and Nicky played for the New York Rockets, but he was given a concussion by a hard hit from Luke Crawford who played for the Boston Harriers. Sebastian loved hockey and had even played it at one time so he attended all the Rockets games and sat near the penalty box where he could chirp Luke every chance he got. Sebastian had a sister Brie, and 5 year old niece Harper who he was very close to. Harper was born with a disease and while it was not terminal it made her very sick at times. When Brie’s husband left them, Sebastian moved to Boston to try to help out. He was the successful owner of 2 flower shops in NYC called Twig and Bloom, so he opened another one there but was having some trouble with finding help so he could expand his business. Now that he was in Boston, he bought season tickets to the Harrier games and attended every one wearing the same old jersey and heckled Luke every time he was in the penalty box so Luke had taken to calling him Vintage Jersey Guy. After a game Luke was feeling quite antsy and there was only one way to ease that feeling. He had never been one for a relationship and was happy by himself, so he used an app to see if anyone was out there that wanted to meet up. He found someone, went to his place, and was shocked to see it was Vintage Jersey Guy. They had a hot hate love scene and he figured that would be the end of that. But both men had liked what happened so they ended up meeting again and that was the start of something that neither man could put a name to. Then Harper showed up at the stadium as a Make a Wish child and spent the day with Luke, her favorite player, and the rest of the Harriers. Sebastian was there too and Luke wasn’t thrilled about that because he wasn’t out and felt his personal life should stay personal, but Sebastian assured him that he wouldn’t say anything. Meanwhile Luke was in contract negotiations and at his age he knows he will probably be retiring soon but Boston will only give him 1 year which doesn’t make him happy. He also doesn’t want to be traded so this is weighing heavily on his mind. He keeps meeting up with Sebastian and then they kiss which leads to even hotter love scenes and they see the caring side of each other when Luke gets hurt and Sebastian tends to him and Luke also helps with repairs on Brie’s condo when there is water damage and he really likes to see Harper. Sebastian’s feelings about what he thought Luke was like are changing and Luke is also feeling things for Sebastian that he’s never felt before and he doesn’t like that. Now they are spending the night with each other and doing a lot of talking and listening to the problems each of them have as well as discussing what a relationship together might look like. The Harriers and their SAPs are helping Brie with time and friendship and Sebastian has gotten to know a lot of them. When Harper has a crisis things come to a head and both men realize they may love each other and after talking to his good friends Luke tells Sebastian that he does love him and Sebastian says he loves him too. Luke has a plan for the future that looks like it may be able to happen, and Sebastian is right there with him as they tell everyone they are together. I really enjoyed this book. Luke is a great hockey player but facing the end of his career. He has never been into relationships and it takes him a while to figure out where he is on the spectrum. Sebastian intrigued him, even though he hated his chirps, but that made their times together even hotter. Sebastian was extremely busy between his shops and caring for his family and didn’t really have any time for a relationship. He loved going to the games and chirping Luke and was shocked when he showed up at his doorstep. As they continued to see each other, he saw the real Luke and started changing his mind about him. He missed him when he was gone on road trips and liked spending time together. He especially liked how he treated Brie and Harper and soon knew he was falling for him. Luke’s teammates played a big part in the story and his D partner, Tanner, added a lot of laughter to it. Brie and Harper were constantly in the background and so was Sebastian’s shop and the work he was doing, plus hockey played a big part in the story. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like stories about a man who plays hockey but doesn’t want any relationships and the busy man who at first hates him but when he sees the real person he is and how they slowly change and fall in love.
Review of advance copy
Luke (Crawford) & Sebastian
"'It's almost like being open and honest and having loving support is good for the game or something."'
"There was a fine line between love and hate and Sebastian and Luke were living proof that it didn't take much to tip from one side of it to the other."
I love the idea that these two started from a purely antagonistic standpoint and then simply could not stop thinking about one another and watching everything slowly build from there. Both guys seem very anti-relationship and anti-romance or aromantic, but it works for their personalities and it doesn't detract from the actual romance of the story. Luke has been a long serving side character in Brigham's hockey universe and it's great to see him finally find his complimentary partner.
The scenes with Luke and Sebastian's niece Harper are incredibly adorable and precious. We've seen Luke's friendly side with kids in the past, mostly with Connor's kids, but it made it really easy to see how Luke could connect with Harper because he has no ill will against children and he's simply just a very hands-on & physical hockey player.
I'm sure it gets said often, but Catherine O'Shea is like an angel when she shows up in these books. I barely remember her from Kelly's story so long ago (and I read it 2 years after its release), but any and all of the stories from Connor's and within this series have included her in some way and she's always there for the player/Harrier employee and their eventual partner and is one of the best people that we get to meet just as a random side character in this series.
I knew Luke's story was going to be a challenge because he's such a seemingly distant and violent individual. But the amount of emotional growth that we get to see from him--and Sebastian-- is really quite incredible and I feel this is one of the more well-rounded stories we've gotten with these guys and this series. Getting the chance to also see Luke truly explore his personal feelings on staying with the team versus retirement and moving into something else also shows a level of maturity that we really haven't seen from some of the older players before.
I absolutely loved my read of Cheap Shot and I cannot wait to see what we're going to get between Leif & Tanner up next! I know they're gonna be a hoot to read, since their tension has been building in the background of several books and seemingly for years.
"There was a reason Luke never wanted to leave Boston, and it had nothing to do with the weather or even the city. It was the people. His people."
*Second hockey book in a row to have a photo shoot with the players to get shelter animals adopted, the other being Charming Puckboy.
** As someone who tentatively sits on the edge of the ace spectrum, it was really great to see an easy and uncomplicated conversation with someone (not an MC) that lives there and isn't afraid to talk about it. Their coverage of aromantic was also really great to see, as it did affect both of the MCs in their situation.
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
"'It's almost like being open and honest and having loving support is good for the game or something."'
"There was a fine line between love and hate and Sebastian and Luke were living proof that it didn't take much to tip from one side of it to the other."
I love the idea that these two started from a purely antagonistic standpoint and then simply could not stop thinking about one another and watching everything slowly build from there. Both guys seem very anti-relationship and anti-romance or aromantic, but it works for their personalities and it doesn't detract from the actual romance of the story. Luke has been a long serving side character in Brigham's hockey universe and it's great to see him finally find his complimentary partner.
The scenes with Luke and Sebastian's niece Harper are incredibly adorable and precious. We've seen Luke's friendly side with kids in the past, mostly with Connor's kids, but it made it really easy to see how Luke could connect with Harper because he has no ill will against children and he's simply just a very hands-on & physical hockey player.
I'm sure it gets said often, but Catherine O'Shea is like an angel when she shows up in these books. I barely remember her from Kelly's story so long ago (and I read it 2 years after its release), but any and all of the stories from Connor's and within this series have included her in some way and she's always there for the player/Harrier employee and their eventual partner and is one of the best people that we get to meet just as a random side character in this series.
I knew Luke's story was going to be a challenge because he's such a seemingly distant and violent individual. But the amount of emotional growth that we get to see from him--and Sebastian-- is really quite incredible and I feel this is one of the more well-rounded stories we've gotten with these guys and this series. Getting the chance to also see Luke truly explore his personal feelings on staying with the team versus retirement and moving into something else also shows a level of maturity that we really haven't seen from some of the older players before.
I absolutely loved my read of Cheap Shot and I cannot wait to see what we're going to get between Leif & Tanner up next! I know they're gonna be a hoot to read, since their tension has been building in the background of several books and seemingly for years.
"There was a reason Luke never wanted to leave Boston, and it had nothing to do with the weather or even the city. It was the people. His people."
*Second hockey book in a row to have a photo shoot with the players to get shelter animals adopted, the other being Charming Puckboy.
** As someone who tentatively sits on the edge of the ace spectrum, it was really great to see an easy and uncomplicated conversation with someone (not an MC) that lives there and isn't afraid to talk about it. Their coverage of aromantic was also really great to see, as it did affect both of the MCs in their situation.
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
April 28, 2026
4 stars
Luke is an enforcer for a hockey team who plays a hard game and isn't really liked outside of whatever team he is on. It used to be that whenever his team played in New York, there was a guy who wore a vintage jersey and would sit near the penalty box and chirp him. But now the guy shows up at all the Boston games and does the same thing. Luke doesn't do relationships, but he does do hookups. One night, his hookup turns out to be the guy in the vintage jersey, and after almost walking away, they realize that the sex is surprisingly good. And then they keep doing it.
I'm of two minds about this story. I was really looking forward to it (like REALLY), and I'm not sure that it delivered what I wanted. However, it wasn't bad, and I did end up enjoying it in the end, even after not being sure I was really into it for about half the book. I did like the representation of different aspects of the Aromantic spectrum. And I did ultimately enjoy that they were both more than okay with that aspect of the relationship. And it might have been because of the aromantic nature, but I'm not entirely sure that I bought the connection between Sebastian and Luke. I think that they liked each other. I think that they supported one another. I also think that they respected each other. I just... I dunno. For most of the story, there was something missing for me. And it felt like we were more in the characters' heads for this one and that they didn't have a lot of together time on page, and weren't necessarily thinking about each other when they weren't together. And I get it: they both had busy lives, and Luke was SUPER private. You know, that might be it: I never felt as though I fully got to know Luke, so he remained this kind of distant figure in the book to me. Did I like the relationship I saw between the two of them? Yes. But I wanted more.
So the first half or so of the book, I was feeling really let down. It wasn't until about 60 percent that I started to think that maybe they might be a couple that I could see happening and root for. The ending left me fairly satisfied, and if the rest of the story had been that engaging, I wouldn't be conflicted with my rating and my enjoyment. However, overall it was an enjoyable experience. It just didn't live up to my expectation of it.
Editing/continuity issues: Several times, in Luke's POV, he was called Crawford. In fact, I often had to double check to see if it was Luke's or Sebatian's POV that I was in at the moment. I don't know, it might be picky, but I just felt that Luke wouldn't be Crawford in his POV, he would be Luke. And Tanner played for Team Canada (pretty sure it was mentioned in previous books that he was born and raised on the North East coast of the US), then in the next breath was playing for Team USA, and a couple of sentences (or paragraphs) later was playing for Team Canada again because he was harassing Dustin Fowler (Team US - he might play for Toronto, but his sister represented Team US at the Olympics in figure skating, and he was born in Illinois.) behind the net. Or maybe Dustin was incorrectly assigned to Team Canada in the book and Tanner was correctly on Team US in that instance? Either way, continuity issue.
Luke is an enforcer for a hockey team who plays a hard game and isn't really liked outside of whatever team he is on. It used to be that whenever his team played in New York, there was a guy who wore a vintage jersey and would sit near the penalty box and chirp him. But now the guy shows up at all the Boston games and does the same thing. Luke doesn't do relationships, but he does do hookups. One night, his hookup turns out to be the guy in the vintage jersey, and after almost walking away, they realize that the sex is surprisingly good. And then they keep doing it.
I'm of two minds about this story. I was really looking forward to it (like REALLY), and I'm not sure that it delivered what I wanted. However, it wasn't bad, and I did end up enjoying it in the end, even after not being sure I was really into it for about half the book. I did like the representation of different aspects of the Aromantic spectrum. And I did ultimately enjoy that they were both more than okay with that aspect of the relationship. And it might have been because of the aromantic nature, but I'm not entirely sure that I bought the connection between Sebastian and Luke. I think that they liked each other. I think that they supported one another. I also think that they respected each other. I just... I dunno. For most of the story, there was something missing for me. And it felt like we were more in the characters' heads for this one and that they didn't have a lot of together time on page, and weren't necessarily thinking about each other when they weren't together. And I get it: they both had busy lives, and Luke was SUPER private. You know, that might be it: I never felt as though I fully got to know Luke, so he remained this kind of distant figure in the book to me. Did I like the relationship I saw between the two of them? Yes. But I wanted more.
So the first half or so of the book, I was feeling really let down. It wasn't until about 60 percent that I started to think that maybe they might be a couple that I could see happening and root for. The ending left me fairly satisfied, and if the rest of the story had been that engaging, I wouldn't be conflicted with my rating and my enjoyment. However, overall it was an enjoyable experience. It just didn't live up to my expectation of it.
Editing/continuity issues: Several times, in Luke's POV, he was called Crawford. In fact, I often had to double check to see if it was Luke's or Sebatian's POV that I was in at the moment. I don't know, it might be picky, but I just felt that Luke wouldn't be Crawford in his POV, he would be Luke. And Tanner played for Team Canada (pretty sure it was mentioned in previous books that he was born and raised on the North East coast of the US), then in the next breath was playing for Team USA, and a couple of sentences (or paragraphs) later was playing for Team Canada again because he was harassing Dustin Fowler (Team US - he might play for Toronto, but his sister represented Team US at the Olympics in figure skating, and he was born in Illinois.) behind the net. Or maybe Dustin was incorrectly assigned to Team Canada in the book and Tanner was correctly on Team US in that instance? Either way, continuity issue.
April 9, 2026
Cheap Shot is the fifth book in the Scoring Chances series and can be read as a standalone.
I was cautious coming into this book. I always thought Luke was a jerk, and the Vintage Jersey Guy who shouts insults at Luke seemed like an odd choice for a love interest, but wow, Brigham Vaughn totally proved me wrong.
I’ve said for a long time that Brigham Vaughn writes some of the most nuanced characters. Sebastian and Luke are prime examples of this; both of them were absolutely fantastic.
Sebastian has so much going on with his sister, his niece, and his flower shops. He handles it all really well, with kindness, patience, and pragmatic thinking.
Luke’s relationship with Sebastian’s niece, Harper, was absolutely adorable. I never thought I would say this, but I really related to Luke. I am very similar to Luke when it comes to relationships, so it was incredibly important for me to see it written so beautifully and positively on page.
I know this is the wrong series 😂, but these two are relationship goals for me. Their dynamic was so complicated and delicious. I adored how openly they communicated and how honest they were with each other. Everything just seemed to fit so well with these two; they understood each other on a fundamental level.
Their chemistry was burning up the pages. When Sebastian defended Luke? Swoon. When Luke takes care of Sebastian? So sweet. The banter (I loved how this continued) and the enemies to lovers trope just made it so much more delectable.
The team and their families really shone in this one. Honestly, all the side characters did. I definitely wanted to see more of Sebastian’s friendship with Nicky. I loved seeing glimpses of Jesse and Connor. Sebastian and Luke are now fighting them for the top spot of my favourite couple in this series.
I really enjoyed Luke thinking about his future after hockey, in the past when characters have done this, it would annoy me. However, I think it’s a testament to how strong and connected this team is that it didn’t bother me at all.
There were definitely some surprising moments, some scenes that had tears in my eyes, and the ending!!
It actually made my breath hitch. I did not want this book to end!
Tanner is next and I’m so excited!!! I’m hoping Nicky might get book at some point as well.
This book contains triggering content such as emotionally neglectful and absent parents and a child with a life-threatening condition being rushed to the hospital.
🏒 MM Hockey Romance
😤 Enemies to lovers
💐 Opposites attracts
🛏️ Accidental hook up
🥰 Found family
💚 Aromantic spectrum rep
❤️🔥 Emotional slow burn
🥺 Hurt/ comfort
🧲 Close proximity
Plot: 📚📚📚📚📚
Character rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sexiness: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Feels: 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Writing style: 🖊🖊🖊🖊🖊
QOTD: Can you tell instantly if you like the book or not?
AOTD: Yes! I can normally tell within the first few chapters.
I was cautious coming into this book. I always thought Luke was a jerk, and the Vintage Jersey Guy who shouts insults at Luke seemed like an odd choice for a love interest, but wow, Brigham Vaughn totally proved me wrong.
I’ve said for a long time that Brigham Vaughn writes some of the most nuanced characters. Sebastian and Luke are prime examples of this; both of them were absolutely fantastic.
Sebastian has so much going on with his sister, his niece, and his flower shops. He handles it all really well, with kindness, patience, and pragmatic thinking.
Luke’s relationship with Sebastian’s niece, Harper, was absolutely adorable. I never thought I would say this, but I really related to Luke. I am very similar to Luke when it comes to relationships, so it was incredibly important for me to see it written so beautifully and positively on page.
I know this is the wrong series 😂, but these two are relationship goals for me. Their dynamic was so complicated and delicious. I adored how openly they communicated and how honest they were with each other. Everything just seemed to fit so well with these two; they understood each other on a fundamental level.
Their chemistry was burning up the pages. When Sebastian defended Luke? Swoon. When Luke takes care of Sebastian? So sweet. The banter (I loved how this continued) and the enemies to lovers trope just made it so much more delectable.
The team and their families really shone in this one. Honestly, all the side characters did. I definitely wanted to see more of Sebastian’s friendship with Nicky. I loved seeing glimpses of Jesse and Connor. Sebastian and Luke are now fighting them for the top spot of my favourite couple in this series.
I really enjoyed Luke thinking about his future after hockey, in the past when characters have done this, it would annoy me. However, I think it’s a testament to how strong and connected this team is that it didn’t bother me at all.
There were definitely some surprising moments, some scenes that had tears in my eyes, and the ending!!
It actually made my breath hitch. I did not want this book to end!
Tanner is next and I’m so excited!!! I’m hoping Nicky might get book at some point as well.
This book contains triggering content such as emotionally neglectful and absent parents and a child with a life-threatening condition being rushed to the hospital.
🏒 MM Hockey Romance
😤 Enemies to lovers
💐 Opposites attracts
🛏️ Accidental hook up
🥰 Found family
💚 Aromantic spectrum rep
❤️🔥 Emotional slow burn
🥺 Hurt/ comfort
🧲 Close proximity
Plot: 📚📚📚📚📚
Character rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sexiness: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Feels: 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Writing style: 🖊🖊🖊🖊🖊
QOTD: Can you tell instantly if you like the book or not?
AOTD: Yes! I can normally tell within the first few chapters.
April 13, 2026
I am a sucker for an anti-hero, and having it be enemies-to-lovers just made it all the more intense. Luke Crawford is the bad boy enforcer for the Boston Harriers. He has a rough reputation on the ice, is very private off the ice, and really does not talk about or even contemplate being in a relationship. He likes his space and his privacy, and is good where he’s at.
Sebastian is a flower shop owner and uncle to a niece with some health issues. He and his niece love hockey. Luke is her favorite player, but her uncle roots for the other team and enjoys chirping Luke while he’s in the penalty box.
But when a hook-up mishap puts them together, the friction at the game turns into a different kind of friction. And they just kind of keep doing it since they both like letting off steam, and they are sure that is all it would ever be.
I honestly loved these two guys together. Luke is so closed off, grumpy, and growly. We slowly start to see under his layers, and there really is a sweetness and a softness about him that he doesn’t show many people. But Sebastian can recognize it as he starts to let him in gradually. They’re snarky, passionate, and both have their priorities. But they are a fun match that definitely bring strong reactions out of the other.
There’s a thin line between love and hate, and it’s fun to see as they kind of slide into a hate-sex to a confusing situationship to an unconventional relationship. They both have things in their life that they’re dealing with career-wise and with family and friends, so it’s a matter of whether they can be there for each other or if it just becomes more of an obligation than neither of them wants to handle.
Sebastian is just such a sweetheart. He’ll do anything for his sister and his niece, but he has a lot on his plate. He’s witty, sarcastic, confident, and loves to challenge Luke. Luke wants to come off as an unfeeling grump, but he feels more than he lets on. There are definite layers to him, and he just wants to be who he is and not fit into any label or box. Luke is dealing with his hockey season and his future. And it’s interesting to see him start to want Sebastian in his space when he was sure he did not need anyone there. And Sebastian is confident enough and not needy, and he lets Luke have that space and privacy that he needs without being threatened by it, so they really do balance each other well. I also loved seeing these two so enamored of a sweet five-year-old girl.
This brings back the Boston Harriers and also has a few New York players. I love this Boston community, but I am also hoping maybe there’s going to be a New York series. But I am really excited for Tanner’s book next, that’s already been set up. And I am interested in one of Sebastian's New York friends, too.
Sebastian is a flower shop owner and uncle to a niece with some health issues. He and his niece love hockey. Luke is her favorite player, but her uncle roots for the other team and enjoys chirping Luke while he’s in the penalty box.
But when a hook-up mishap puts them together, the friction at the game turns into a different kind of friction. And they just kind of keep doing it since they both like letting off steam, and they are sure that is all it would ever be.
I honestly loved these two guys together. Luke is so closed off, grumpy, and growly. We slowly start to see under his layers, and there really is a sweetness and a softness about him that he doesn’t show many people. But Sebastian can recognize it as he starts to let him in gradually. They’re snarky, passionate, and both have their priorities. But they are a fun match that definitely bring strong reactions out of the other.
There’s a thin line between love and hate, and it’s fun to see as they kind of slide into a hate-sex to a confusing situationship to an unconventional relationship. They both have things in their life that they’re dealing with career-wise and with family and friends, so it’s a matter of whether they can be there for each other or if it just becomes more of an obligation than neither of them wants to handle.
Sebastian is just such a sweetheart. He’ll do anything for his sister and his niece, but he has a lot on his plate. He’s witty, sarcastic, confident, and loves to challenge Luke. Luke wants to come off as an unfeeling grump, but he feels more than he lets on. There are definite layers to him, and he just wants to be who he is and not fit into any label or box. Luke is dealing with his hockey season and his future. And it’s interesting to see him start to want Sebastian in his space when he was sure he did not need anyone there. And Sebastian is confident enough and not needy, and he lets Luke have that space and privacy that he needs without being threatened by it, so they really do balance each other well. I also loved seeing these two so enamored of a sweet five-year-old girl.
This brings back the Boston Harriers and also has a few New York players. I love this Boston community, but I am also hoping maybe there’s going to be a New York series. But I am really excited for Tanner’s book next, that’s already been set up. And I am interested in one of Sebastian's New York friends, too.
April 10, 2026
4.5 stars
Luke Crawford has been a constant presence in this author's books for a long time.
He's always been the mean defenseman, the asshole player, the one who never hesitated to slam his opponents on the boards and also the teammate who wasn't very nice in the locker room.
But Brigham Vaughn worked his magic and, oh boy, did I love this story!
I usually prefer more straightforward romantic dynamics, I want the MCs to irremediably fall in love, the tender moments and the sweet gesture and honestly, none of it fits in Luke and Sebastian's story but I still loved it so much.
These two have been on each other's nerves for a long time, with Sebastian showing up at every Harriers' game, dressed in a New York Rockett jersey, to throw chirps at Luke.
The first cracks in Luke's stern appearance started to show in the previous book, when he accepted to take pictures with a little fan, despite her being Jersey Guy's niece.
In this book they connect through a hookup app and are shocked when they recognise each other; they decide to still have sex and they immediately hit it off, being exactly what they need and having an incredible sexual chemistry.
Obviously they still don't like each other and Sebastian doesn't stop to tantalise Luke during the games, but they keep hooking up in secret and their connection grows.
Sebastian is exactly what Luke needs: sexy, independent, easygoing, not demanding of Luke's attention or time because he has his own career to think of and his family to support.
And Sebastian is baffled by how much of a good person Luke is, nice, loyal, reliable, a mature man who knows what he wants in his life. Luke can seem just a rough player unconcerned about hurting others, but he actually cares and he also changed his attitude once he educated himself.
I really appreciated how the author handled Luke's aromantic side: there was nothing to fix and once he and Sebastian had a serious talk, they found a common ground to make their relationship work for real. The emotional build up of this story was very slow but also very satisfying.
I'm not a big fan of Sebastian's sister, I found her too pushy and intrusive sometimes. Instead, I adored how Sebastian and Nicky mended their friendship (I hope he will get a book too!).
The end was everything I needed for them.
Now, the question is will Leif be able to shut Tanner up? I hope he will. In the most delicious way.
I received an ARC of this book from Neon Rainbow and this is my honest review.
Luke Crawford has been a constant presence in this author's books for a long time.
He's always been the mean defenseman, the asshole player, the one who never hesitated to slam his opponents on the boards and also the teammate who wasn't very nice in the locker room.
But Brigham Vaughn worked his magic and, oh boy, did I love this story!
I usually prefer more straightforward romantic dynamics, I want the MCs to irremediably fall in love, the tender moments and the sweet gesture and honestly, none of it fits in Luke and Sebastian's story but I still loved it so much.
These two have been on each other's nerves for a long time, with Sebastian showing up at every Harriers' game, dressed in a New York Rockett jersey, to throw chirps at Luke.
The first cracks in Luke's stern appearance started to show in the previous book, when he accepted to take pictures with a little fan, despite her being Jersey Guy's niece.
In this book they connect through a hookup app and are shocked when they recognise each other; they decide to still have sex and they immediately hit it off, being exactly what they need and having an incredible sexual chemistry.
Obviously they still don't like each other and Sebastian doesn't stop to tantalise Luke during the games, but they keep hooking up in secret and their connection grows.
Sebastian is exactly what Luke needs: sexy, independent, easygoing, not demanding of Luke's attention or time because he has his own career to think of and his family to support.
And Sebastian is baffled by how much of a good person Luke is, nice, loyal, reliable, a mature man who knows what he wants in his life. Luke can seem just a rough player unconcerned about hurting others, but he actually cares and he also changed his attitude once he educated himself.
I really appreciated how the author handled Luke's aromantic side: there was nothing to fix and once he and Sebastian had a serious talk, they found a common ground to make their relationship work for real. The emotional build up of this story was very slow but also very satisfying.
I'm not a big fan of Sebastian's sister, I found her too pushy and intrusive sometimes. Instead, I adored how Sebastian and Nicky mended their friendship (I hope he will get a book too!).
The end was everything I needed for them.
Now, the question is will Leif be able to shut Tanner up? I hope he will. In the most delicious way.
I received an ARC of this book from Neon Rainbow and this is my honest review.
April 18, 2026
4.5 - but rounded up stars cause BV books always a win.
Brigham Vaughn hockey series are always a must read for me! So, I knew I wouldn’t be disappointed. But, I think Cheap Shot is my favorite book in this Harriers Series so far
I don’t know what everyone else pictured when they read it, but for me Luke was like a hockey version of gruff, strong silent type Jason Mamoa, and that was not a bad thing! As open as everyone is on (arguably) the gayest team in the Brigham Vaughn hockey world, (and now we learn about Poly couples too!?) Luke was suuuper private and even to his besties (not that he would admit they were besties) he kept his sexuality a secret. Not because he was ashamed of it, just because no one ever gave him a reason to open up and he never had a desire to share anything very personal. Sebastian is a former hockey player, who left the game because he just could not see himself ever belonging the way the league was in his youth. He has a successful life, with lots of love between his sister & niece, but with a new business and very few friends in Boston, he was still lonely but mostly content. Hookups were enough! But we know these silly men often don’t know what they really need or want. Obviously sparks fly when these two meet up unexpectedly with the help of a hookup app. Despite hating each other they go for it and pretty soon just can’t stop meeting up. With the help of Sebastian's little niece, they grow unexpectedly closer and pretty soon neither of them can deny that there might be real feelings there.
I really liked this one – I liked both MC’s and I liked that they BOTH genuinely didn't want a relationship and liked keeping it casual. More often than not, it’s one MC who starts out telling themselves it’s casual, but kind of deep down it never was. With Luke & Seb it really did start out that way. This book has lots of references and appearances by other MCs from the BV unviverse, which was great. Who wouldn't want to see the O’shea family, and their matriarch Catherine. I loved how things worked out, and the big feels moment with those 3 little words was perfect and I loved who said them first. If you’re a fan of the Harriers series, and enemies to frenemies to more, you’ll love this one too! Next up - I’m really looking forward to Tanner’s story, and learning more about this kid. He seems kind of loveable in this one, I want more.
Brigham Vaughn hockey series are always a must read for me! So, I knew I wouldn’t be disappointed. But, I think Cheap Shot is my favorite book in this Harriers Series so far
I don’t know what everyone else pictured when they read it, but for me Luke was like a hockey version of gruff, strong silent type Jason Mamoa, and that was not a bad thing! As open as everyone is on (arguably) the gayest team in the Brigham Vaughn hockey world, (and now we learn about Poly couples too!?) Luke was suuuper private and even to his besties (not that he would admit they were besties) he kept his sexuality a secret. Not because he was ashamed of it, just because no one ever gave him a reason to open up and he never had a desire to share anything very personal. Sebastian is a former hockey player, who left the game because he just could not see himself ever belonging the way the league was in his youth. He has a successful life, with lots of love between his sister & niece, but with a new business and very few friends in Boston, he was still lonely but mostly content. Hookups were enough! But we know these silly men often don’t know what they really need or want. Obviously sparks fly when these two meet up unexpectedly with the help of a hookup app. Despite hating each other they go for it and pretty soon just can’t stop meeting up. With the help of Sebastian's little niece, they grow unexpectedly closer and pretty soon neither of them can deny that there might be real feelings there.
I really liked this one – I liked both MC’s and I liked that they BOTH genuinely didn't want a relationship and liked keeping it casual. More often than not, it’s one MC who starts out telling themselves it’s casual, but kind of deep down it never was. With Luke & Seb it really did start out that way. This book has lots of references and appearances by other MCs from the BV unviverse, which was great. Who wouldn't want to see the O’shea family, and their matriarch Catherine. I loved how things worked out, and the big feels moment with those 3 little words was perfect and I loved who said them first. If you’re a fan of the Harriers series, and enemies to frenemies to more, you’ll love this one too! Next up - I’m really looking forward to Tanner’s story, and learning more about this kid. He seems kind of loveable in this one, I want more.
April 11, 2026
I guess most of us have been waiting for Luke's story ever since the beginning of his appearance in the Scoring Chances series. To see him find his match and who better than the guy who's been antagonising him during each game.
Luke is the Boston Harrier's defense enforcer, he's gruff, grumpy, mean on the field, basicly the guy they need him to be. He's getting older though and starts to feel his age. Nevertheless, he'd love to end his career at the Harriers but the contract negotiations aren't really going well.
Sebastian Breckon is the owner of a few flower shops and he's recently opened one in Boston mostly to be closer to his sister Brie and niece Harper who's got a heart condition. He loves hockey, is a huge New York Rocketts fan and loves nothing more than wearing their jersey and throw chirps at Luke during games. He's become known at Vintage Jersey Guy just for that reason alone.
Things start to change between them however when they meet through a hook up app each not knowing who the other was but deciding to go through with it. The chemistry between them was of the charts hot, they're exactly what the other needs and despite the aversion they feel for each other they keep meeting in secret.
Slowly things start to change however, both men are different in every way but still so similar. I loved that neither of them wanted to change the other, if there was a problem they talked about it. The banter between them was hilarious at times but there were also a lot of tender moments. Sebastian sees Luke isn't the emotionless player he shows on the field, he's caring and has a heart of gold which shows in the way he treats Harper. And Luke is pleased to see that Sebastian isn't out to change him, he understands Luke's need to still be his own person, to have alone time.
I loved everything about this book, most of all the family dynamic of the team. The team is as hilarious as ever, the banter flows freely but as soon as one of them is in need of something they're ready to step in.
Cheap Shot is yet again another great addition to this series and I can't wait for the next one that -according through some hints Brigham's given us - will be Tanner's story. I can't wait for him to find his match.
**ARC kindly received from the author via Neon Rainbow Reviews. I'm leaving an honest review.**
Luke is the Boston Harrier's defense enforcer, he's gruff, grumpy, mean on the field, basicly the guy they need him to be. He's getting older though and starts to feel his age. Nevertheless, he'd love to end his career at the Harriers but the contract negotiations aren't really going well.
Sebastian Breckon is the owner of a few flower shops and he's recently opened one in Boston mostly to be closer to his sister Brie and niece Harper who's got a heart condition. He loves hockey, is a huge New York Rocketts fan and loves nothing more than wearing their jersey and throw chirps at Luke during games. He's become known at Vintage Jersey Guy just for that reason alone.
Things start to change between them however when they meet through a hook up app each not knowing who the other was but deciding to go through with it. The chemistry between them was of the charts hot, they're exactly what the other needs and despite the aversion they feel for each other they keep meeting in secret.
Slowly things start to change however, both men are different in every way but still so similar. I loved that neither of them wanted to change the other, if there was a problem they talked about it. The banter between them was hilarious at times but there were also a lot of tender moments. Sebastian sees Luke isn't the emotionless player he shows on the field, he's caring and has a heart of gold which shows in the way he treats Harper. And Luke is pleased to see that Sebastian isn't out to change him, he understands Luke's need to still be his own person, to have alone time.
I loved everything about this book, most of all the family dynamic of the team. The team is as hilarious as ever, the banter flows freely but as soon as one of them is in need of something they're ready to step in.
Cheap Shot is yet again another great addition to this series and I can't wait for the next one that -according through some hints Brigham's given us - will be Tanner's story. I can't wait for him to find his match.
**ARC kindly received from the author via Neon Rainbow Reviews. I'm leaving an honest review.**
April 10, 2026
CHEAP SHOT - BRIGHAM VAUGHN
This is book five in the Scoring Chances series, and considered an enemies to lovers trope. Definitely an MC we have been waiting to read!
Luke Crawford is the Defense Enforcer for the Boston Harriers, and hoping to end his career with this team, but contract negotiations are not going the way he was hoping.
Sebastian Breckon has been known as the “vintage jersey guy” throughout this series and chirps Luke whenever he is in the penalty box.
The two meet through a hookup app, and initially banter back and forth about all the reasons they can’t stand the other one, but eventually agree they ultimately just want to get some release and agree to go through with it. Hate sex, yes, but somehow it works for them!
It’s good enough for them to take the chance to continue and hookup whenever either is able to meet. When they run into each other at a team event set up for Sebastian’s niece Harper, Luke shows the caring and gentle side of himself that others rarely see, and it makes Sebastian start thinking there is more to this guy than just being the man who ruined his best friend’s career.
Luke has always been a private person, but he is willing to step out of his comfort zone when Sebastian needs his support. Then he comes out to his team, and admits to Sebastian he has feelings for him. Both men have things in their past that make them cautious and neither feel the need to follow what others consider a normal relationship path. They agree to do what is best for them, and if it means keeping their own homes, both are good with that. The most important thing is knowing they are there for each other.
There are returning characters from each book in the series that everyone loves and gets annoyed with (yes, I am talking about Tanner!), but this found family dynamic is always heartwarming to read, and done in only the way Brigham Vaughn can write it! Definitely worth reading, and I am looking forward to the next book already! The true sign of a good author!
This is book five in the Scoring Chances series, and considered an enemies to lovers trope. Definitely an MC we have been waiting to read!
Luke Crawford is the Defense Enforcer for the Boston Harriers, and hoping to end his career with this team, but contract negotiations are not going the way he was hoping.
Sebastian Breckon has been known as the “vintage jersey guy” throughout this series and chirps Luke whenever he is in the penalty box.
The two meet through a hookup app, and initially banter back and forth about all the reasons they can’t stand the other one, but eventually agree they ultimately just want to get some release and agree to go through with it. Hate sex, yes, but somehow it works for them!
It’s good enough for them to take the chance to continue and hookup whenever either is able to meet. When they run into each other at a team event set up for Sebastian’s niece Harper, Luke shows the caring and gentle side of himself that others rarely see, and it makes Sebastian start thinking there is more to this guy than just being the man who ruined his best friend’s career.
Luke has always been a private person, but he is willing to step out of his comfort zone when Sebastian needs his support. Then he comes out to his team, and admits to Sebastian he has feelings for him. Both men have things in their past that make them cautious and neither feel the need to follow what others consider a normal relationship path. They agree to do what is best for them, and if it means keeping their own homes, both are good with that. The most important thing is knowing they are there for each other.
There are returning characters from each book in the series that everyone loves and gets annoyed with (yes, I am talking about Tanner!), but this found family dynamic is always heartwarming to read, and done in only the way Brigham Vaughn can write it! Definitely worth reading, and I am looking forward to the next book already! The true sign of a good author!
April 10, 2026
I started this book thinking it would take a lot for me to even like Luke Crawford. And for the first couple of chapters I wasn't convinced I would like the book at all.
But I should have had more faith in Brigham Vaughn, I should have known that she would give him a story utterly suitable and perfect for him.
Luke is such a complex character and there is so much more to him than just the grumpy enforcer who gets chirped at each home game by a guy only known as "Vintage Jersey Guy".
Oh man, we slowly get to know the real Luke, the one underneath the force on the ice, the penalties, the sometimes rude guy in the locker room. And I fell in love with him, one small gesture, one small glimps of a very private man behind the public image at a time.
He got me when he was taking care of Harper, when he helped without any reason apart from being horrified that a woman and a small child needed help and nothing was done. He got me when Sebastian needed a strong shoulder to lean on and some reassurance and Luke didn't hesitate.
He is also a man who sees what the game is doing to his - for hockey - old body. But he wants to stay as Boston is more than just a team for him. The way he works through his thoughts, his hope, his fears and discovering his future.
Brigham Vaughn does a brilliant job showing Luke's sexuality without dumping it down, without cheapening it or making excuses. Even better - she didn't attempt to "heal" him. And with Sebastian she gave him a partner who gets him, who understands and fits him. These two have chemistry, from the first hate hookup to the end when both are so much more, they light up the pages.
Sebastian is also well written, torn between loyalties to his sister, his old friend and often buried under the work his flower shop, he uses to hate Luke as a valve to let of steam.
Now, can we also have a HEA for Nicky please?
But I should have had more faith in Brigham Vaughn, I should have known that she would give him a story utterly suitable and perfect for him.
Luke is such a complex character and there is so much more to him than just the grumpy enforcer who gets chirped at each home game by a guy only known as "Vintage Jersey Guy".
Oh man, we slowly get to know the real Luke, the one underneath the force on the ice, the penalties, the sometimes rude guy in the locker room. And I fell in love with him, one small gesture, one small glimps of a very private man behind the public image at a time.
He got me when he was taking care of Harper, when he helped without any reason apart from being horrified that a woman and a small child needed help and nothing was done. He got me when Sebastian needed a strong shoulder to lean on and some reassurance and Luke didn't hesitate.
He is also a man who sees what the game is doing to his - for hockey - old body. But he wants to stay as Boston is more than just a team for him. The way he works through his thoughts, his hope, his fears and discovering his future.
Brigham Vaughn does a brilliant job showing Luke's sexuality without dumping it down, without cheapening it or making excuses. Even better - she didn't attempt to "heal" him. And with Sebastian she gave him a partner who gets him, who understands and fits him. These two have chemistry, from the first hate hookup to the end when both are so much more, they light up the pages.
Sebastian is also well written, torn between loyalties to his sister, his old friend and often buried under the work his flower shop, he uses to hate Luke as a valve to let of steam.
Now, can we also have a HEA for Nicky please?
April 12, 2026
Finally we find out what makes Luke Crawford tick and why Vintage Jersey guy keeps chirping at him when Luke is in the penalty box. This was a great enemies to lovers story. Luke Crawford always seemed like a grumpy, antisocial guy in previous books and he is but we also finally get to see his soft side. Sebastian Breckon has moved from New York to Boston to help his sister, Brie, take care of his 4 year old niece, Harper, who has PHACE syndrome. HE had 2 successful florist shops in New York and is trying to start up a shop in Boston. He also has season tickets to the Boston Harriers hockey games. Not because he likes the team but so he can chirp at Luke Crawford, who is a D-man and enforcer for the team. Luke likes his privacy and remodeling his home himself. He doesn't do relationships but instead uses apps. He and Sebastian agree to meet on an app and are surprised to find out who the other is, but they decide to have a hate hookup. They each get to see a different side to each other when the Make A Wish foundation sets Harper up to meet her hockey hero who happens to be Luke Crawford. Luke gets to see the doting uncle and Sebastian get to see the soft side of Luke and how gentle and patient he is with Harper. When Luke is placed on injured reserve, he and Sebastian spend more time together and Luke ends up helping to fix Brie's busted water pipes and helps when Harper has a medical emergency. They are surprised to find out that they have fallen in love with each other. Sebastian finally tells Luke why he chirps at him which is due to a cheap shot that Luke took on his Sebastian's childhood friend, Nicky, that left him with concussion symptoms. Luke tells Sebastion that he texted and apologized to Nicky after it happened and that he is more careful. I really enjoyed how Luke and Sebastian don't have a conventional relationship but it works for them.
April 20, 2026
CHEAP SHOT is the fifth book in the Scoring Chances series. It can be read as a standalone but I don't know why you'd do that. It needs to be read in the order the author intended to fully experience the book and series.
What to expect:
🏒Enemies to Lovers
🏒Hurt / Comfort
🏒Opposites Attract
🏒Found Family
🏒Aromantic Spectrum Rep
Sebastian Breckon has a huge dislike for Luke Crawford. Sebastian thinks he plays dirty and hurt his friend Nicky from the New York team. Sebastian makes it his mission to chirp him every time he's in the penalty box. Now that he's moved from New York to Boston to help his sister care for he daughter, he makes sure he's there every game to let him know what he thinks of him and his playing. Will Sebastian risk losing his best friend that Luke hurt by continuing to see Luke?
Luke Crawford doesn't know who Sebastian really was but in his head he's just vintage jersey guy. He sits by the penalty box and chirps to him at every single game. When Luke agrees to go to meet a hook up he isn't prepared when Sebastian opens the door. Should he turn around and go home absolutely but something about him makes him want to stay. They fall into a hate sex situation both enjoying the animosity between them. What started out as just a hookup is slowly creeping into territory that Luke wasn't expecting. Can Luke figure out how to be in a relationship and still have the space he needs?
I love this series and finally getting Luke's story is everything I needed. I love the love hate between them. Knowing they probably shouldn't be doing this but doing it anyway all the while Sebastian continues to chirp Luke at every game. Their chemistry was explosive in every way. And getting to see more of the team is always a bonus for me!! I can't wait for what's next for Tanner and Leif!!
I was given a free copy of this book to read and review for Neon Rainbow.
What to expect:
🏒Enemies to Lovers
🏒Hurt / Comfort
🏒Opposites Attract
🏒Found Family
🏒Aromantic Spectrum Rep
Sebastian Breckon has a huge dislike for Luke Crawford. Sebastian thinks he plays dirty and hurt his friend Nicky from the New York team. Sebastian makes it his mission to chirp him every time he's in the penalty box. Now that he's moved from New York to Boston to help his sister care for he daughter, he makes sure he's there every game to let him know what he thinks of him and his playing. Will Sebastian risk losing his best friend that Luke hurt by continuing to see Luke?
Luke Crawford doesn't know who Sebastian really was but in his head he's just vintage jersey guy. He sits by the penalty box and chirps to him at every single game. When Luke agrees to go to meet a hook up he isn't prepared when Sebastian opens the door. Should he turn around and go home absolutely but something about him makes him want to stay. They fall into a hate sex situation both enjoying the animosity between them. What started out as just a hookup is slowly creeping into territory that Luke wasn't expecting. Can Luke figure out how to be in a relationship and still have the space he needs?
I love this series and finally getting Luke's story is everything I needed. I love the love hate between them. Knowing they probably shouldn't be doing this but doing it anyway all the while Sebastian continues to chirp Luke at every game. Their chemistry was explosive in every way. And getting to see more of the team is always a bonus for me!! I can't wait for what's next for Tanner and Leif!!
I was given a free copy of this book to read and review for Neon Rainbow.
Review of advance copy received from Author
We made it to Luke’s story! Was definitely looking forward to his story to find out how who exactly would be a match big, tough Luke. And who better than the guy who loves to wear NY jerseys to a Boston game and sit right near the penalty box to chirp at Luke all night? Yep, Sebastian and Luke are the last guys you would think would get together, but they were actually a pretty great pair. Luke has never pictured himself in a relationship. Whether it was the way he grew up or just something that is just part of who he is, he isn’t sure, but no one has really tempted him. But when these two come face to face for an anonymous hookup, you don’t know who is more surprised at the fact that they met on an app or the fact that neither are opposed to the idea. Their verbal sparring is basically foreplay for them and they learn quickly they have pretty good chemistry. And from there begins a really slow build up from hook ups to friends to eventually something more. Sebastian wasn’t looking for a relationship either. He is busy expanding his business in Boston and is always ready to help his sister and his niece when they need it. Specifically because his young niece has a chronic illness and Sebastian wants to be there for them with whatever they need. But the moments that Luke spend time together, the more they really get to know one another and realize that maybe they don’t really hate each other after all. I really loved these two. It was this slow burn emotional build up but it was so right for them. And it made it so much more satisfying by the end when they realize just how hard they have fallen for one another. Just another great addition to the series and with enough hints that have me super excited for the next book!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 13, 2026
Chirping turns to love
Crawford finally gets his story!
Luke Crawford, the old school enforcer with a reputation for meanness and fighting, on and off the ice – and suspicions he is homophobic having come up in previous books – gets to show both his other side and how he has grown in this.
The idea of him getting together with Vintage Jersey Guy, the man knows for his chirping of Crawford when he's in the penalty box was so fun.
And Sebastian's back story, with his critically ill niece, injured best friend, and having given up hockey as a teen because he knew he wasn't welcome in the sport then as a gay guy, was so good.
The aromantic spectrum in this was so good! I especially loved that Luke came to the realisation that he was aromantic in his thirties, thanks to the people around him starting to be more inclusive in their language. That's the case for so many older people somewhere on the ace/aro spectrums in my experience, thanks to just not having had the language to explain how they felt earlier. Having a younger aroace character, in Luke's teammate Anker, allowed the story to show that asexuality and aromanticism are spectrums, and include very different experiences.
I really appreciated as well that, although he is not out and hates labels, Luke really doesn't have internalised biphobia/homophobia. He just thinks it's no one's business who he sleeps with.
In this, you'll find:
•MM hockey romance
•Bisexual grey-aromantic NHL player
•Gay florist, former youth hockey player
•Both MCs in their 30s
•"Hate you" to "love you"
•History of chirping
•Niece with congenital heart issues and facial birthmark
•Single mom sister after her husband left because of their kid's disabilities
•Hospitalisation
•Secondary character with post concussion syndrome
•Leaving hockey because of homophobia
•Former relationship breakdown because of commitment to work
•Home water damage
Crawford finally gets his story!
Luke Crawford, the old school enforcer with a reputation for meanness and fighting, on and off the ice – and suspicions he is homophobic having come up in previous books – gets to show both his other side and how he has grown in this.
The idea of him getting together with Vintage Jersey Guy, the man knows for his chirping of Crawford when he's in the penalty box was so fun.
And Sebastian's back story, with his critically ill niece, injured best friend, and having given up hockey as a teen because he knew he wasn't welcome in the sport then as a gay guy, was so good.
The aromantic spectrum in this was so good! I especially loved that Luke came to the realisation that he was aromantic in his thirties, thanks to the people around him starting to be more inclusive in their language. That's the case for so many older people somewhere on the ace/aro spectrums in my experience, thanks to just not having had the language to explain how they felt earlier. Having a younger aroace character, in Luke's teammate Anker, allowed the story to show that asexuality and aromanticism are spectrums, and include very different experiences.
I really appreciated as well that, although he is not out and hates labels, Luke really doesn't have internalised biphobia/homophobia. He just thinks it's no one's business who he sleeps with.
In this, you'll find:
•MM hockey romance
•Bisexual grey-aromantic NHL player
•Gay florist, former youth hockey player
•Both MCs in their 30s
•"Hate you" to "love you"
•History of chirping
•Niece with congenital heart issues and facial birthmark
•Single mom sister after her husband left because of their kid's disabilities
•Hospitalisation
•Secondary character with post concussion syndrome
•Leaving hockey because of homophobia
•Former relationship breakdown because of commitment to work
•Home water damage
April 14, 2026
Luke is a hockey player for the Boston Harriers and he has a weird nemesis. An annoying fan that shows up to every Boston home game in a Vintage New York jersey and chirps him every time he lands in the penalty box.
Sebastian is that fan, but he’s got a good reason. He’s best friends with New York’s captain, a man that Luke injured with a dirty hit a couple of seasons ago. A hit his best friend hasn’t returned from yet.
Their story shouldn’t be any deeper than that, but then Luke goes looking for a hookup on an app and ends up at Sebastian’s door. He almost walks away, but Sebastian says they might as well follow through with it, and to both of their shock, the sex is electric.
I adored this book. I absolutely devoured it and only put it down when I absolutely had to.
I love books where the characters just fit together perfectly and this is one of them. Neither of them is looking for a what others would consider to be a typical relationship and what they’re both looking for works so well together.
And both men are so lovable. It’s easy to dislike them both at first. Luke is prickly, and Sebastian chirps him relentlessly at all of his games, but the more you get to know them the more you see they’re both good men.
Luke is intensely private, but he loves the few people he lets in with a fierceness. Plus, he’s incredible with kids. Something about a super prickly super closed off man who is always super soft and gentle and careful with little kids is just sooooo good.
Sebastian is a jerk to Luke at first but when you learn his motives it becomes easy to understand why. He’s intensely loyal to the people he cares about including not only his best friend but also his sister and his niece.
Tropes:
🏒 hockey player/florist
🏒 enemies to enemies with benefits to friends(?) with benefits to lovers
🏒 found family
hockey accuracy: 5/5
Sebastian is that fan, but he’s got a good reason. He’s best friends with New York’s captain, a man that Luke injured with a dirty hit a couple of seasons ago. A hit his best friend hasn’t returned from yet.
Their story shouldn’t be any deeper than that, but then Luke goes looking for a hookup on an app and ends up at Sebastian’s door. He almost walks away, but Sebastian says they might as well follow through with it, and to both of their shock, the sex is electric.
I adored this book. I absolutely devoured it and only put it down when I absolutely had to.
I love books where the characters just fit together perfectly and this is one of them. Neither of them is looking for a what others would consider to be a typical relationship and what they’re both looking for works so well together.
And both men are so lovable. It’s easy to dislike them both at first. Luke is prickly, and Sebastian chirps him relentlessly at all of his games, but the more you get to know them the more you see they’re both good men.
Luke is intensely private, but he loves the few people he lets in with a fierceness. Plus, he’s incredible with kids. Something about a super prickly super closed off man who is always super soft and gentle and careful with little kids is just sooooo good.
Sebastian is a jerk to Luke at first but when you learn his motives it becomes easy to understand why. He’s intensely loyal to the people he cares about including not only his best friend but also his sister and his niece.
Tropes:
🏒 hockey player/florist
🏒 enemies to enemies with benefits to friends(?) with benefits to lovers
🏒 found family
hockey accuracy: 5/5
Review of advance copy received from Author
thanks to the author for the gifted copy.
It's finally time for Luke Crawford's book in Cheap Shots by Brigham Vaughn. He's the grumpy, keep to himself person on the team of oversharers that make up the Boston Harriers. He's also always being chirped by this fan while he's in the penalty box. Tables quickly turn when Luke and the fan (Sebastian) meet up via an app for a hook up and it explodes into some phenomenal hate sex and they both find each other's buttons to push. That should be it expect Sebastian's niece has a make a wish trip because her favorite player much to Sebastian's chagrin is Luke. As they keep ending up in each other's orbit, they become dare they say friends and so begins a unique relationship as both Sebastian and Luke require some space and a partner that understands, they won't always come first or even second in each other's lives. It's not that they don't care for each other it's just the way they're built. If you're a fan of hate sex, this is definitely the book for you.
I absolutely devoured Cheap Shots and couldn't put it down. It was so great to see the Aro spectrum rep, even though Luke isn't a fan of labels, I'd definitely put him into the grey-aro label personally. Seeing the softer side of Luke both with his teammates and Sebastian's niece was a great counter point to his gruff on ice persona and the way those sides of him intertwined was excellent character development. I also appreciated that the chirping never went away from either of them even as their relationship deepened which I feel like often happens in romance stories featuring Aro spectrum characters. In a world that needs a wide variety of happily ever afters, this one is a great edition to an outside the norm HEA.
It's finally time for Luke Crawford's book in Cheap Shots by Brigham Vaughn. He's the grumpy, keep to himself person on the team of oversharers that make up the Boston Harriers. He's also always being chirped by this fan while he's in the penalty box. Tables quickly turn when Luke and the fan (Sebastian) meet up via an app for a hook up and it explodes into some phenomenal hate sex and they both find each other's buttons to push. That should be it expect Sebastian's niece has a make a wish trip because her favorite player much to Sebastian's chagrin is Luke. As they keep ending up in each other's orbit, they become dare they say friends and so begins a unique relationship as both Sebastian and Luke require some space and a partner that understands, they won't always come first or even second in each other's lives. It's not that they don't care for each other it's just the way they're built. If you're a fan of hate sex, this is definitely the book for you.
I absolutely devoured Cheap Shots and couldn't put it down. It was so great to see the Aro spectrum rep, even though Luke isn't a fan of labels, I'd definitely put him into the grey-aro label personally. Seeing the softer side of Luke both with his teammates and Sebastian's niece was a great counter point to his gruff on ice persona and the way those sides of him intertwined was excellent character development. I also appreciated that the chirping never went away from either of them even as their relationship deepened which I feel like often happens in romance stories featuring Aro spectrum characters. In a world that needs a wide variety of happily ever afters, this one is a great edition to an outside the norm HEA.
April 15, 2026
This is the fifth book in the series, and while it can absolutely be read as a standalone, knowing the backstories of some of the characters adds an extra layer of enjoyment.
Luke, the private, grumpy hockey player, finally gets his story—and I loved every second of it. I had been wondering who could possibly break through his walls, and Sebastian turned out to be the perfect match. As a loud, chirp-happy fan with a big personality, he brings exactly the kind of energy Luke didn’t know he needed.
Their back-and-forth is one of the highlights of the book. Between Luke juggling the demands of hockey and Sebastian running his flower shop while helping his sister, both of them are stretched thin and looking for some kind of release. The fact that they end up choosing each other on a hookup site? Unexpected, but it works so well for them.
What starts as purely physical—full of tension and those sharp, love-hate interactions—slowly grows into something deeper. You get angry hookups, nosy teammates, a budding friendship, and eventually a relationship built on understanding and acceptance. There’s also a strong found family element that adds warmth and depth to the story.
Luke’s struggle with what comes after hockey and Sebastian trying to expand his shop give the story a grounded, real-life balance. Even with everything going on, they keep finding their way back to each other—and that’s where the magic happens.
And then there’s Harper, Sebastian’s niece, who completely steals the show. She’s sweet, lovable, and her bond with Luke is just heart-melting. Watching “Mr. Luke” become her hero adds such a soft, emotional layer to his character.
Overall, this book delivers humor, heart, tension, and growth, making it a great addition to the series.
Monica
Luke, the private, grumpy hockey player, finally gets his story—and I loved every second of it. I had been wondering who could possibly break through his walls, and Sebastian turned out to be the perfect match. As a loud, chirp-happy fan with a big personality, he brings exactly the kind of energy Luke didn’t know he needed.
Their back-and-forth is one of the highlights of the book. Between Luke juggling the demands of hockey and Sebastian running his flower shop while helping his sister, both of them are stretched thin and looking for some kind of release. The fact that they end up choosing each other on a hookup site? Unexpected, but it works so well for them.
What starts as purely physical—full of tension and those sharp, love-hate interactions—slowly grows into something deeper. You get angry hookups, nosy teammates, a budding friendship, and eventually a relationship built on understanding and acceptance. There’s also a strong found family element that adds warmth and depth to the story.
Luke’s struggle with what comes after hockey and Sebastian trying to expand his shop give the story a grounded, real-life balance. Even with everything going on, they keep finding their way back to each other—and that’s where the magic happens.
And then there’s Harper, Sebastian’s niece, who completely steals the show. She’s sweet, lovable, and her bond with Luke is just heart-melting. Watching “Mr. Luke” become her hero adds such a soft, emotional layer to his character.
Overall, this book delivers humor, heart, tension, and growth, making it a great addition to the series.
Monica
April 16, 2026
✨ I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.✨
We finally get to know who Vintage Jersey Guy is and why he was being so mean to Luke! He had every reason to be rude to him after what happened with his friend. But I also think that he might have gone a little overboard at times.
After all, it’s not like Luke wanted to hurt anyone. He was paid to fight on the ice and defend his teammates and that’s exactly what he did. Only that time he might have being too rough.
Sebastian swore he hated Luke. He made it his mission to get under his skin by chirping at him every chance Luke’s in the box. It was the highlight of his day whenever he could ruffle Luke’s feathers even if just a little bit.
Sebastian couldn’t stand Luke. But when a hookup brings Luke to his literal doorstep, the right thing should have been to throw him out. Instead, what follows is an intense and heated hookup where hate and anger are completely forgotten.
The chemistry between them is unmatched and neither of them can deny it. What should have been a one off, became something they couldn’t live without.
Sebastian wanted to dislike Luke. He wanted to only see the man who hurt his friend, but Luke made it impossible. His kindness and care towards his niece was Sebastian’s undoing. No matter how hard he tried to only see Luke’s flaws, Sebastian couldn’t deny how big Luke’s heart really was.
I loved that despite of how they started, they both found a balance that worked best for them. They gave each other space when needed but were always there to support one another.
I loved them so much! I loved how their story was completely different from the previous books. Each of them had life goals that were different but they found a way to compromise and make it work.
We finally get to know who Vintage Jersey Guy is and why he was being so mean to Luke! He had every reason to be rude to him after what happened with his friend. But I also think that he might have gone a little overboard at times.
After all, it’s not like Luke wanted to hurt anyone. He was paid to fight on the ice and defend his teammates and that’s exactly what he did. Only that time he might have being too rough.
Sebastian swore he hated Luke. He made it his mission to get under his skin by chirping at him every chance Luke’s in the box. It was the highlight of his day whenever he could ruffle Luke’s feathers even if just a little bit.
Sebastian couldn’t stand Luke. But when a hookup brings Luke to his literal doorstep, the right thing should have been to throw him out. Instead, what follows is an intense and heated hookup where hate and anger are completely forgotten.
The chemistry between them is unmatched and neither of them can deny it. What should have been a one off, became something they couldn’t live without.
Sebastian wanted to dislike Luke. He wanted to only see the man who hurt his friend, but Luke made it impossible. His kindness and care towards his niece was Sebastian’s undoing. No matter how hard he tried to only see Luke’s flaws, Sebastian couldn’t deny how big Luke’s heart really was.
I loved that despite of how they started, they both found a balance that worked best for them. They gave each other space when needed but were always there to support one another.
I loved them so much! I loved how their story was completely different from the previous books. Each of them had life goals that were different but they found a way to compromise and make it work.
Review of advance copy received from Author
From Penalty Box to Something Real
Cheap Shot by Brigham Vaughn is that perfect mix of grumpy athlete, unexpected softness, and “this was supposed to be nothing” turning into everything.
Luke Crawford is the definition of closed-off. He likes his life simple—hockey, cars, and zero emotional attachments. Then there’s Sebastian Breckon, aka the guy chirping him from the stands every game, holding a grudge and absolutely not interested in anything Luke has to offer… until one very unexpected hookup changes the entire dynamic.
The tension between Luke and Sebastian is so good. It starts off sharp and antagonistic, then slowly shifts into something warmer, deeper, and way more vulnerable than either of them planned. Luke especially stands out—watching him go from emotionally unavailable to someone who wants to show up (even if he fights it the whole way) is easily one of the strongest parts of the book.
I also really appreciated the aromantic representation in this one. It wasn’t treated as something to “fix” or erase, and that nuance added a lot of depth to Luke’s internal conflict and how the relationship evolves. It felt intentional and respectful, which you don’t always see done well.
Sebastian brings a different kind of weight to the story with his family responsibilities and everything he’s juggling. It adds a layer of real-life pressure that balances the hockey world really well and makes their relationship feel grounded instead of just situational.
What I really loved was how the story handled growth. This isn’t instant love or easy change—Luke has to work to get there, and you feel every step of it. The emotional payoff hits because it’s earned.
Cheap Shot by Brigham Vaughn is that perfect mix of grumpy athlete, unexpected softness, and “this was supposed to be nothing” turning into everything.
Luke Crawford is the definition of closed-off. He likes his life simple—hockey, cars, and zero emotional attachments. Then there’s Sebastian Breckon, aka the guy chirping him from the stands every game, holding a grudge and absolutely not interested in anything Luke has to offer… until one very unexpected hookup changes the entire dynamic.
The tension between Luke and Sebastian is so good. It starts off sharp and antagonistic, then slowly shifts into something warmer, deeper, and way more vulnerable than either of them planned. Luke especially stands out—watching him go from emotionally unavailable to someone who wants to show up (even if he fights it the whole way) is easily one of the strongest parts of the book.
I also really appreciated the aromantic representation in this one. It wasn’t treated as something to “fix” or erase, and that nuance added a lot of depth to Luke’s internal conflict and how the relationship evolves. It felt intentional and respectful, which you don’t always see done well.
Sebastian brings a different kind of weight to the story with his family responsibilities and everything he’s juggling. It adds a layer of real-life pressure that balances the hockey world really well and makes their relationship feel grounded instead of just situational.
What I really loved was how the story handled growth. This isn’t instant love or easy change—Luke has to work to get there, and you feel every step of it. The emotional payoff hits because it’s earned.
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