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Portland Wildfire
Crosby: A Portland Wildfire Novel
Not yet published
Expected 19 May 26She’s here to expose hockey’s biggest flaws. He’s the complication she never planned on. Neither one is prepared for the sparks that fly every time they collide.
Juno Paxton has built her award-winning documentary career dismantling institutions people blindly worship. Her latest assignment is her most high-profile immerse herself in the league’s newest hockey expansion team—the Portland Wildfire—for an entire season and create a behind-the-scenes film the league can parade around as “authentic.”
Juno doesn’t buy it. Not the hype, not the hero worship, and definitely not the polished personas of pro athletes. She expects egos, theatrics, and plenty of manufactured grit.
What she doesn’t expect is Crosby Hale.
The Wildfire’s starting goalie is stoic, meticulously focused, and infuriatingly camera-shy. He wants nothing to do with her film, her questions, or her insistence that he “show some personality.” Unfortunately for him, the league wants Juno’s documentary to center on the enigmatic goaltender who refuses to cooperate.
But the more time Juno spends with Crosby, the more she glimpses the steady, thoughtful man beneath his guarded exterior. He isn’t the stereotype she’s built her name exposing—he’s better. The more she learns about him, the harder it becomes to keep her documentary, and her heart, objective. And for Crosby, letting Juno in feels less like a mistake and more like the beginning of something worth fighting for.
Warm, witty, and unexpectedly emotional, CROSBY launches the Portland Wildfire series with a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance between a skeptical filmmaker and the goalie determined to stay out of her spotlight… until she becomes the one thing he can’t turn away from.
Juno Paxton has built her award-winning documentary career dismantling institutions people blindly worship. Her latest assignment is her most high-profile immerse herself in the league’s newest hockey expansion team—the Portland Wildfire—for an entire season and create a behind-the-scenes film the league can parade around as “authentic.”
Juno doesn’t buy it. Not the hype, not the hero worship, and definitely not the polished personas of pro athletes. She expects egos, theatrics, and plenty of manufactured grit.
What she doesn’t expect is Crosby Hale.
The Wildfire’s starting goalie is stoic, meticulously focused, and infuriatingly camera-shy. He wants nothing to do with her film, her questions, or her insistence that he “show some personality.” Unfortunately for him, the league wants Juno’s documentary to center on the enigmatic goaltender who refuses to cooperate.
But the more time Juno spends with Crosby, the more she glimpses the steady, thoughtful man beneath his guarded exterior. He isn’t the stereotype she’s built her name exposing—he’s better. The more she learns about him, the harder it becomes to keep her documentary, and her heart, objective. And for Crosby, letting Juno in feels less like a mistake and more like the beginning of something worth fighting for.
Warm, witty, and unexpectedly emotional, CROSBY launches the Portland Wildfire series with a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance between a skeptical filmmaker and the goalie determined to stay out of her spotlight… until she becomes the one thing he can’t turn away from.
- GenresHockey RomanceRomance
Kindle Edition
Expected publication May 19, 2026
4 people are currently reading
211 people want to read
About the author
Sawyer Bennett
177 books14.4k followersNew York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Sawyer Bennett uses real life experience to create relatable stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From contemporary romance, fantasy romance, and both women’s and general fiction, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.
A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.
If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).
A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.
If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).
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April 28, 20264🌟
Crosby kicks off the Portland Wildfire Hockey series in a great way. He’s the goalie for the new expansion team and also their captain. He’s reserved and is more about the game than the spotlight. So when he meets Juno, a documentary maker, he doesn’t want anything to do with her. Although once he spends time with Juno, he sees her dedication, loyalty, vulnerability and passion which are all things he gravitates to. They were a fabulous couple and one I hope to read more about in the following books. There was no epilogue but it does end with a HEA, and that is SB’s style with these series. Each book might overlap a little so everything feels current.
I listened along to the audio whilst reading and it was exceptional. The only thing that would have been better is if it was in duet style with a full cast. Aaron Shedlock and Amanda Stribling were perfect for Crosby and Juno both hit the marks on emotions and tone throughout the whole production. I would listen to them again for sure.
Crosby kicks off the Portland Wildfire Hockey series in a great way. He’s the goalie for the new expansion team and also their captain. He’s reserved and is more about the game than the spotlight. So when he meets Juno, a documentary maker, he doesn’t want anything to do with her. Although once he spends time with Juno, he sees her dedication, loyalty, vulnerability and passion which are all things he gravitates to. They were a fabulous couple and one I hope to read more about in the following books. There was no epilogue but it does end with a HEA, and that is SB’s style with these series. Each book might overlap a little so everything feels current.
I listened along to the audio whilst reading and it was exceptional. The only thing that would have been better is if it was in duet style with a full cast. Aaron Shedlock and Amanda Stribling were perfect for Crosby and Juno both hit the marks on emotions and tone throughout the whole production. I would listen to them again for sure.
Review of advance copy received from Author
She’s here to expose hockey’s biggest flaws. He’s the complication she never planned on. Neither one is prepared for the sparks that fly every time they collide.
Juno Paxton has built her award-winning documentary career dismantling institutions people blindly worship. Her latest assignment is her most high-profile immerse herself in the league’s newest hockey expansion team—the Portland Wildfire—for an entire season and create a behind-the-scenes film the league can parade around as “authentic.”
Juno doesn’t buy it. Not the hype, not the hero worship, and definitely not the polished personas of pro athletes. She expects egos, theatrics, and plenty of manufactured grit.
What she doesn’t expect is Crosby Hale.
The Wildfire’s starting goalie is stoic, meticulously focused, and infuriatingly camera-shy. He wants nothing to do with her film, her questions, or her insistence that he “show some personality.” Unfortunately for him, the league wants Juno’s documentary to center on the enigmatic goaltender who refuses to cooperate.
But the more time Juno spends with Crosby, the more she glimpses the steady, thoughtful man beneath his guarded exterior. He isn’t the stereotype she’s built her name exposing—he’s better. The more she learns about him, the harder it becomes to keep her documentary and her heart, objective. And for Crosby, letting Juno in feels less like a mistake and more like the beginning of something worth fighting for.
Warm, witty, and unexpectedly emotional, CROSBY launches the Portland Wildfire series with a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance between a skeptical filmmaker and the goalie determined to stay out of her spotlight… until she becomes the one thing he can’t turn away from.
Juno and Crosby’s story hooked me from the very first pages—this was such a strong start to a new series. I loved the dynamic between them: her sharp, skeptical edge paired perfectly with his quiet intensity. The slow-burn tension felt natural and satisfying, and their emotional development really paid off.
Warm, engaging, and full of heart, this was a romance that delivered both emotional depth and addictive storytelling. I’m excited to read Donovan's story next!
Juno Paxton has built her award-winning documentary career dismantling institutions people blindly worship. Her latest assignment is her most high-profile immerse herself in the league’s newest hockey expansion team—the Portland Wildfire—for an entire season and create a behind-the-scenes film the league can parade around as “authentic.”
Juno doesn’t buy it. Not the hype, not the hero worship, and definitely not the polished personas of pro athletes. She expects egos, theatrics, and plenty of manufactured grit.
What she doesn’t expect is Crosby Hale.
The Wildfire’s starting goalie is stoic, meticulously focused, and infuriatingly camera-shy. He wants nothing to do with her film, her questions, or her insistence that he “show some personality.” Unfortunately for him, the league wants Juno’s documentary to center on the enigmatic goaltender who refuses to cooperate.
But the more time Juno spends with Crosby, the more she glimpses the steady, thoughtful man beneath his guarded exterior. He isn’t the stereotype she’s built her name exposing—he’s better. The more she learns about him, the harder it becomes to keep her documentary and her heart, objective. And for Crosby, letting Juno in feels less like a mistake and more like the beginning of something worth fighting for.
Warm, witty, and unexpectedly emotional, CROSBY launches the Portland Wildfire series with a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance between a skeptical filmmaker and the goalie determined to stay out of her spotlight… until she becomes the one thing he can’t turn away from.
Juno and Crosby’s story hooked me from the very first pages—this was such a strong start to a new series. I loved the dynamic between them: her sharp, skeptical edge paired perfectly with his quiet intensity. The slow-burn tension felt natural and satisfying, and their emotional development really paid off.
Warm, engaging, and full of heart, this was a romance that delivered both emotional depth and addictive storytelling. I’m excited to read Donovan's story next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Sawyer Bennett for giving me another fictional hockey team to love! The Portland Wildfire are the newest expansion team and let me just say that I am already in love with this team!
I listened to and read this one. The story is amazing and the narration is fantastic! Aaron Shedlock is the goalie for the Wildfire Crosby Hale, and Amanda Stribling is Juno Paxton, the award winning documentary filmmaker doing a documentary on the new team’s first season. They do an incredible job of bringing these characters to life! I also love his teammate Arch and his sister Birdie and am hoping for something there eventually.
Juno is given all access to the team for the season including traveling with them by the owner. Crosby does not like the spotlight and doesn’t want to be interviewed. Juno has a way of making him feel comfortable enough to talk to her though. Crosby and Juno manage to keep things professional at first, but their chemistry and attraction becomes undeniable. I love them together so much!
After her unconventional childhood and his last relationship, the fact that they fall into an easy relationship with trust and meaningful conversation being as much a part of it as their physical attraction, is just perfect.
When there is a threat to what they have been building together though, it almost feels like there may be no way to make things better after some things were said in the heat of the moment. But luckily Crosby mans up and gets his girl back!
I absolutely loved this first book in what looks to be an incredible new series by Sawyer Bennett!! I can’t wait for more!
I listened to and read this one. The story is amazing and the narration is fantastic! Aaron Shedlock is the goalie for the Wildfire Crosby Hale, and Amanda Stribling is Juno Paxton, the award winning documentary filmmaker doing a documentary on the new team’s first season. They do an incredible job of bringing these characters to life! I also love his teammate Arch and his sister Birdie and am hoping for something there eventually.
Juno is given all access to the team for the season including traveling with them by the owner. Crosby does not like the spotlight and doesn’t want to be interviewed. Juno has a way of making him feel comfortable enough to talk to her though. Crosby and Juno manage to keep things professional at first, but their chemistry and attraction becomes undeniable. I love them together so much!
After her unconventional childhood and his last relationship, the fact that they fall into an easy relationship with trust and meaningful conversation being as much a part of it as their physical attraction, is just perfect.
When there is a threat to what they have been building together though, it almost feels like there may be no way to make things better after some things were said in the heat of the moment. But luckily Crosby mans up and gets his girl back!
I absolutely loved this first book in what looks to be an incredible new series by Sawyer Bennett!! I can’t wait for more!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Crosby is the first book in Sawyer Bennett's new Portland Wildfire series.
Crosby Hale is the starting goalie for the newest team in the league, the Portland Wildfire. He's notoriously private and doesn't love cameras. He is focused, loyal and wants to make sure he brings his best self to the ice.
Juno Paxton works on and produces documentaries, most of them focusing on people and institutions that others trust without further information. Her foray into this career was built after she escaped the cult she was born into. She has been hired to focus on the new expansion team in Portland and showcase them.
Crosby realizes that he is going to be expected to talk with Juno for the documentary and it is the last thing he wants to do. Juno has a way of making Crosby feel comfortable, which makes him open up to her in a way that surprises even him. Both of them have been through quite a bit, so trust does not come easily, but they find they can trust one another with more ease than others. Oh, and let's not discount the fact that they have amazing chemistry too. Will they be able to make something meaningful work between them or will outside forces be too much?
I enjoyed this story and felt like the relationship developed in a way that was very believable. Both Crosby and Juno had been through a lot, but finding someone who they could each be comfortable with was something they both needed. I'm excited to see where this series goes!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
Crosby Hale is the starting goalie for the newest team in the league, the Portland Wildfire. He's notoriously private and doesn't love cameras. He is focused, loyal and wants to make sure he brings his best self to the ice.
Juno Paxton works on and produces documentaries, most of them focusing on people and institutions that others trust without further information. Her foray into this career was built after she escaped the cult she was born into. She has been hired to focus on the new expansion team in Portland and showcase them.
Crosby realizes that he is going to be expected to talk with Juno for the documentary and it is the last thing he wants to do. Juno has a way of making Crosby feel comfortable, which makes him open up to her in a way that surprises even him. Both of them have been through quite a bit, so trust does not come easily, but they find they can trust one another with more ease than others. Oh, and let's not discount the fact that they have amazing chemistry too. Will they be able to make something meaningful work between them or will outside forces be too much?
I enjoyed this story and felt like the relationship developed in a way that was very believable. Both Crosby and Juno had been through a lot, but finding someone who they could each be comfortable with was something they both needed. I'm excited to see where this series goes!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
Review of advance copy received from Author
Compelling Start
Crosby kicks off Sawyer Bennett’s new Portland Wildfire series with a strong, character-driven story that blends romance with an intriguing behind-the-scenes look at professional hockey. Juno Paxton immediately stood out to me—her backstory adds real depth to her perspective, and her skepticism toward the league makes her feel refreshingly different from the typical sports romance heroine.
The dynamic between Juno and Crosby is where the book really shines. Their chemistry feels natural, and I loved how they balance each other—her sharp, probing nature against his quiet, steady presence. Watching Crosby slowly open up, both on and off camera, made their slow-burn connection especially satisfying.
I’m also really interested in where the series is headed. The documentary angle is a unique hook, and I’m curious to see how it unfolds over the Wildfire’s first season. Bennett introduces several side characters—Birdie, Arch, and especially Patrick—who already feel like they’ll bring a lot to future books.
My main critique is the ending. It felt rushed and somewhat abrupt compared to the careful pacing of the rest of the story, which made the conclusion a bit less impactful than it could have been.
Overall, this is a strong and engaging start to a new series, with memorable characters and a fresh premise. 4 stars.
ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Crosby kicks off Sawyer Bennett’s new Portland Wildfire series with a strong, character-driven story that blends romance with an intriguing behind-the-scenes look at professional hockey. Juno Paxton immediately stood out to me—her backstory adds real depth to her perspective, and her skepticism toward the league makes her feel refreshingly different from the typical sports romance heroine.
The dynamic between Juno and Crosby is where the book really shines. Their chemistry feels natural, and I loved how they balance each other—her sharp, probing nature against his quiet, steady presence. Watching Crosby slowly open up, both on and off camera, made their slow-burn connection especially satisfying.
I’m also really interested in where the series is headed. The documentary angle is a unique hook, and I’m curious to see how it unfolds over the Wildfire’s first season. Bennett introduces several side characters—Birdie, Arch, and especially Patrick—who already feel like they’ll bring a lot to future books.
My main critique is the ending. It felt rushed and somewhat abrupt compared to the careful pacing of the rest of the story, which made the conclusion a bit less impactful than it could have been.
Overall, this is a strong and engaging start to a new series, with memorable characters and a fresh premise. 4 stars.
ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Crosby Hale, the starting goalie and team captain for a new expansion team, the Portland Wildfire, shies away from the spotlight, always, so when Juno Paxton and her trusty videographer are hired for a team documentary, things aren’t going to go down well with Crosby. He’s not interested in being on screen, unless he’s playing hockey, however when he actually gets to know Juno he realises he might have been a little too judgemental about her and her documentary. Juno gets the job done, she sees everything, she doesn’t judge and she knows what she wants, she’s very patient. Her honesty and integrity are second to none and I loved that about her. A well matched couple, who actually brought out the best in each other, no games, no half truths, just happy to be in each others company both in and out of the bedroom. A little drama in the mix from a scorned ex (isn’t that always the case), and a great supporting cast who I’m so looking forward to seeing more of in this new team. I listened to the audio book alongside reading the ebook and Amanda Stribling and Aaron Shedlock narrated with ease, entertaining me throughout. A perfect couple narrating the perfect couple. I received advanced copies of both the ebook and the audio. This is my honest review.
Review of advance copy
Crosby is the first book in the new Portland Wildfire series, and it was such a strong start. I loved the concept of a documentary following the formation of a brand-new hockey team...it felt fresh, fun, and so easy to get pulled into!! The way the story unfolded honestly had me wishing the documentary was real so I could watch every second of it.
The relationship between Juno and Crosby felt especially genuine. Their connection was built on trust, and that development felt natural and believable every step of the way. Crosby had so much depth as a character, and watching him grow alongside Juno was one of my favorite parts of the book.
I loved how Juno was completely unapologetic about who she was. She never tried to fit the mold of the people who came before her or change herself to meet anyone else’s expectations. She stayed true to herself the entire time, and that made her character feel even more authentic and easy to root for.
Overall, Crosby was a fantastic kickoff to the series, and now I’m really excited to see what comes next. From what we’ve already seen of Donovan, I have a feeling Locke is going to bring plenty of drama, tension, and all the chaos I’m ready for.
The relationship between Juno and Crosby felt especially genuine. Their connection was built on trust, and that development felt natural and believable every step of the way. Crosby had so much depth as a character, and watching him grow alongside Juno was one of my favorite parts of the book.
I loved how Juno was completely unapologetic about who she was. She never tried to fit the mold of the people who came before her or change herself to meet anyone else’s expectations. She stayed true to herself the entire time, and that made her character feel even more authentic and easy to root for.
Overall, Crosby was a fantastic kickoff to the series, and now I’m really excited to see what comes next. From what we’ve already seen of Donovan, I have a feeling Locke is going to bring plenty of drama, tension, and all the chaos I’m ready for.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I loved Crosby and how he almost always kept his cool whether it was as the goalie or people trying to push his buttons. Juno and Evan were hired to film a documentary for the new Oregon hockey team. I loved hearing how the owner of the new team, who was very rich, had decked out the new arena and team plane. I would have loved being on the plane. Crosby had a long term girlfriend that he had broken up with at least three years ago who was not such a good person. She ended up marrying one of the players on this new team and caused trouble. She was definitely not one of my favorite people. Juno’s past was a horror story that she had come to terms with, and she was a strong, confident woman now. I loved watching Crosby and Juno get to know each other and how they complimented each other. Their love story was so sweet! I loved the book and strongly encourage you to read it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Juno films documentaries. She was born into a cult and was able to escape. Through her documentaries she exposes people. Her next target is the new hockey team.
Crosby is a guy who keeps to himself. Being a public figure there are many thoughts formed about him whether they are true or not. Crosby is very hesitant to be interviewed by Juno.
Juno tries to gain Crosby’s trust by being open with him about her past. That opens the door. They end up spending a lot of time together. Juno is constantly around the team, so it’s not hard to do. They get to know a lot about each other and grow very close.
There are still some aspects of Juno’s work that Crosby isn’t sure he can trust. Together they need to figure it out.
Crosby is a guy who keeps to himself. Being a public figure there are many thoughts formed about him whether they are true or not. Crosby is very hesitant to be interviewed by Juno.
Juno tries to gain Crosby’s trust by being open with him about her past. That opens the door. They end up spending a lot of time together. Juno is constantly around the team, so it’s not hard to do. They get to know a lot about each other and grow very close.
There are still some aspects of Juno’s work that Crosby isn’t sure he can trust. Together they need to figure it out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you, Sawyer, for the ALC and ARC!
I absolutely loved the immersive reading experience for this one—switching between the audiobook and the physical read made it so easy to get completely lost in the story. The narration was so well done and really brought the characters and emotions to life.
As the first book in the Portland Wildfire series, Crosby sets the tone perfectly. This slow-burn, office romance with a grumpy x sunshine dynamic had me deep in my feels from start to finish. The tension, the character growth, and the emotional depth all hit just right.
If you love a romance that builds steadily while pulling at your heartstrings, this one is definitely worth the read (and listen!).
I absolutely loved the immersive reading experience for this one—switching between the audiobook and the physical read made it so easy to get completely lost in the story. The narration was so well done and really brought the characters and emotions to life.
As the first book in the Portland Wildfire series, Crosby sets the tone perfectly. This slow-burn, office romance with a grumpy x sunshine dynamic had me deep in my feels from start to finish. The tension, the character growth, and the emotional depth all hit just right.
If you love a romance that builds steadily while pulling at your heartstrings, this one is definitely worth the read (and listen!).
Review of advance copy received from Author
Great start to a new series. Crosby is the star goalie for the Portland Wildfire. He stats out of the drama and is a very private person. He knows that he’s going to have to address his past when his new teammate is married to his ex. Juno is a documentary filmmaker who is making a film based on the expansion team. She has a crazy past and doesn’t try to hide it. She has to find a way to knock down some walls to get Crosby to talk to her for the documentary. What neither expect is to actually enjoy their conversations.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a great way to start off a new series. Sawyer Bennett expands the hockey scene with a new team, a new goalie and the woman who needs to stay impartial, but feelings and attraction gets in the way. Crosby and Juno have an instant connection and oh boy do the sparks fly. This book will have you flipping the pages and you will not be able to put it down. The audiobook adds just the right about of snark and heat to keep the listener entertained. A great story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is book one in the new Portland wildfire hockey series. We meet Crosby the goalie and captain who is quiet and reserved. He’s all about the game and the team. We also meet Juno, she’s the documentarian who has been hired to make a film about the team. They butt heads because Crosby doesn’t want to be filmed. I got to Listen to the ALC and the narrators were amazing. They hit all the emotions.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars
Crosby by Sawyer Bennett is the first book in her new series Portland Wildfire and I really enjoyed it.
I enjoyed getting to meet these new characters and the storyline held my interest from start to end.
I'm excited to read more as my interest had peaked especially with our next book main male character Donovan Locke.
RTC
Crosby by Sawyer Bennett is the first book in her new series Portland Wildfire and I really enjoyed it.
I enjoyed getting to meet these new characters and the storyline held my interest from start to end.
I'm excited to read more as my interest had peaked especially with our next book main male character Donovan Locke.
RTC
Want to Read
April 16, 2026This book is not released yet, though I already have cover comments. A stoic goalie? Not a chance. The guy on the cover looks like he plays in a band not on a hockey team. A blue leather jacket? A nonchalant expression? Those scream, I'm the lead singer and will get into your pants.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved his book and their chemistry! Another win from this author and I can’t for more!
Review of advance copy received from Author
A soft and tender hearted story. Filled with lots of emotions. A sweet and wonderful read.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews