What do you think?
Rate this book
Dirty Hit
Not yet published
Expected 2 Feb 26Gender-bent TED LASSO meets THE DEAL in a new grumpy/sunshine hockey romance from bestselling author Livy Hart.
When a career-ending injury forces hockey superstar Sadie Rivers to hang up her skates, she never expects to be the NHL’s first female coach. The Portland Fury are the league’s worst team—and Sadie has one season to turn the franchise around. Critics of her “soft touch” coaching style make no secret of their skepticism, but Sadie has never bucked a challenge, on or off the ice.
Defenseman Leo McLaren is hockey royalty. Or he was, until a dirty hit last season left him with a shoulder injury and migraines that have destroyed his game. When he’s traded to the Fury, it feels like the end of his hockey dreams. That is, until the new head coach names him captain—and asks for his help getting to know the team, who resist her personal approach.
Secret coach-captain meet-ups lead to a tentative friendship that quickly turns into sizzling chemistry hot enough to melt a hockey rink. But with the season and both their careers on the line, Sadie and Leo will have to decide if love is a risk worth taking when the game they’re playing demands all they have to give.
Perfect for fans of Elle Kennedy and Emily Rath, DIRTY HIT is an emotional, super-spicy sports romance and the start of the Portland Fury series!
When a career-ending injury forces hockey superstar Sadie Rivers to hang up her skates, she never expects to be the NHL’s first female coach. The Portland Fury are the league’s worst team—and Sadie has one season to turn the franchise around. Critics of her “soft touch” coaching style make no secret of their skepticism, but Sadie has never bucked a challenge, on or off the ice.
Defenseman Leo McLaren is hockey royalty. Or he was, until a dirty hit last season left him with a shoulder injury and migraines that have destroyed his game. When he’s traded to the Fury, it feels like the end of his hockey dreams. That is, until the new head coach names him captain—and asks for his help getting to know the team, who resist her personal approach.
Secret coach-captain meet-ups lead to a tentative friendship that quickly turns into sizzling chemistry hot enough to melt a hockey rink. But with the season and both their careers on the line, Sadie and Leo will have to decide if love is a risk worth taking when the game they’re playing demands all they have to give.
Perfect for fans of Elle Kennedy and Emily Rath, DIRTY HIT is an emotional, super-spicy sports romance and the start of the Portland Fury series!
Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 2, 2026
121 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
Want to read
January 14, 2026THANK YOU, Entangled Publishing, LLC | Entangled: Amara, for sending me this ARC. Can't wait to read this one. I love a good hockey rom-com.
Pub Date Feb 02 2026
As always, all thoughts are my own. 🖤✨
Pub Date Feb 02 2026
As always, all thoughts are my own. 🖤✨
January 16, 2026
I loved this book! I love a female coach who is so super sunshiney; her middle name is Lemon! I love a grumpy hockey player who’s hiding an injury and finds himself drawn to the happiest person in the room. There’s a rag tag team that eventually gets it together and terrible men who finally get their comeuppance!
Dirty Hit has the perfect balance of romance, odd ball side characters and actual hockey knowledge. The relationship between Sadie and Leo was wonderfully done and they really stepped up for each other when it was needed the most. I also loved Sadie and Viv and I feel like they made a great coaching team.
This is a perfect sports romance with lots of humor, spice and enough terrible behavior from men that will have you seething.
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for this eARC in exchange for my honest opinions!
Dirty Hit has the perfect balance of romance, odd ball side characters and actual hockey knowledge. The relationship between Sadie and Leo was wonderfully done and they really stepped up for each other when it was needed the most. I also loved Sadie and Viv and I feel like they made a great coaching team.
This is a perfect sports romance with lots of humor, spice and enough terrible behavior from men that will have you seething.
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for this eARC in exchange for my honest opinions!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I love Livy Hart romances, which are filled with depth and tenderness without sacrificing authenticity or plot. This hockey romance has a great concept, and tackles a lot of great issues with care.
Maybe I'm too raw after watching Heated Rivalry, but this didn't quite hit the target for me. Sadie and Leo were both great characters both as individuals and as a couple, and I enjoyed reading them fall into a deep respect for one another and eventually love.
I found a few plot holes, and the ending of this was very rushed. there was a large cast of characters, which was a bit confusing to me, and some storylines that were started and either didn't come to fruition or were rushed to end.
All in all, still a nice romance, but could have been better.
many thanks to Entangled Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Maybe I'm too raw after watching Heated Rivalry, but this didn't quite hit the target for me. Sadie and Leo were both great characters both as individuals and as a couple, and I enjoyed reading them fall into a deep respect for one another and eventually love.
I found a few plot holes, and the ending of this was very rushed. there was a large cast of characters, which was a bit confusing to me, and some storylines that were started and either didn't come to fruition or were rushed to end.
All in all, still a nice romance, but could have been better.
many thanks to Entangled Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is forbidden romance done right. Sadie is Leo’s coach, and yes, that dynamic could have gone very wrong, but it never does. Livy Hart expertly navigates that line with care, intention, and emotional depth, making you fully root for Sadie and Leo every step of the way. It feels earned, respectful, and deeply satisfying.
This is also a true grumpy/sunshine pairing. Leo is absolutely not thrilled to be chatted up by Sadie or casually befriended by her at first, which makes their dynamic even better. The attraction is there immediately, but this is a slower burn, letting the tension, trust, and emotional connection build in a way that feels authentic and swoon-worthy.
And the banter? Elite. Top-tier. Livy Hart knows exactly how to make you swoon and laugh out loud. I was genuinely cracking up during multiple moments. Those perfectly timed lines that sneak up on you and make you grin like an idiot.
One of my favorite things about Livy’s books is the family element, and Dirty Hit delivers. Bringing in Leo’s twin siblings and family was such a sweet, grounding touch that added so much heart to the story. It made Leo feel fully formed and deeply lovable.
I also loved the team arc in this book. Watching a fractured hockey team slowly come together under Sadie’s patient, thoughtful coaching was incredibly satisfying. Seeing them grow into a real team that learns to trust and rely on one another added real emotional weight and depth to the story.
The side characters? MAIN CHARACTER ENERGY. Every single one of them. Assistant coach and BFF extraordinaire Vivi absolutely stole scenes, and I am begging for her to get her own book. There are so many standout hockey players on this team, and I am fully seated for stories about all of them. Please and thank you.
Dirty Hit has everything you adore from Livy Hart:
✨ top tier banter
✨ chemistry that jumps off the page
✨ laugh out loud moments
✨ heartfelt family dynamics
✨ a hockey romance that truly delivers
Livy Hart is officially in her hockey romance era, and I am HERE for it. This is hockey romance done right. Please let this be a series because I am ready for another one immediately!
Thank you to Entangled publishing for the eArc. All opinions are my own.
This is also a true grumpy/sunshine pairing. Leo is absolutely not thrilled to be chatted up by Sadie or casually befriended by her at first, which makes their dynamic even better. The attraction is there immediately, but this is a slower burn, letting the tension, trust, and emotional connection build in a way that feels authentic and swoon-worthy.
And the banter? Elite. Top-tier. Livy Hart knows exactly how to make you swoon and laugh out loud. I was genuinely cracking up during multiple moments. Those perfectly timed lines that sneak up on you and make you grin like an idiot.
One of my favorite things about Livy’s books is the family element, and Dirty Hit delivers. Bringing in Leo’s twin siblings and family was such a sweet, grounding touch that added so much heart to the story. It made Leo feel fully formed and deeply lovable.
I also loved the team arc in this book. Watching a fractured hockey team slowly come together under Sadie’s patient, thoughtful coaching was incredibly satisfying. Seeing them grow into a real team that learns to trust and rely on one another added real emotional weight and depth to the story.
The side characters? MAIN CHARACTER ENERGY. Every single one of them. Assistant coach and BFF extraordinaire Vivi absolutely stole scenes, and I am begging for her to get her own book. There are so many standout hockey players on this team, and I am fully seated for stories about all of them. Please and thank you.
Dirty Hit has everything you adore from Livy Hart:
✨ top tier banter
✨ chemistry that jumps off the page
✨ laugh out loud moments
✨ heartfelt family dynamics
✨ a hockey romance that truly delivers
Livy Hart is officially in her hockey romance era, and I am HERE for it. This is hockey romance done right. Please let this be a series because I am ready for another one immediately!
Thank you to Entangled publishing for the eArc. All opinions are my own.
December 27, 2025
Livy Hart’s hockey romance era is going to be a fun one. If she has no fans, I’ve somehow forgotten how to read.
A coach x player romance is always going to be risky, and doubly so when all eyes are already on a coach because she’s the first woman to hold the role. It leads to a tension between Sadie and Leo as their attraction is undeniable but carries a forbidden edge. Livy Hart doesn’t shy away from how damaging of a scandal it could be and it gives more weight to the connection between Sadie and Leo that the chance at happiness and love feels bigger than the downfall could be. It is also acknowledged that the reality of this situation is Sadie would be the one to incinerated by the court of public opinion should it all be revealed. It reinforces the strength of the feelings she is experiencing for Leo that she’s choosing to take that risk for herself. Without spoilers, the way things work out shows great character development for both Sadie and Leo, and also really gives a taste of the characters we will hopefully be seeing more of.
I love Sadie’s approach as a head coach and seeing her find the best approach to connect with her players. Resistant as they are, she is persistent and she is good at her job. Her determination to show that she knows the sport, knows how to lead, and care truly care for her team as more than a commodity for the sport is really lovely.
(And because I am deeply attached to the Game Changers/Heated Rivalry universe right now (and forever), I cannot leave out the fact that Leo’s 13-year-old sister, Nola, is who I imagine Ilya Rozanov would have been as a preteen with a healthy home life — an adorable, charming little meddler.)
Thank you to Livy Hart for allowing me to dive into this world and trusting me with an early read.
A coach x player romance is always going to be risky, and doubly so when all eyes are already on a coach because she’s the first woman to hold the role. It leads to a tension between Sadie and Leo as their attraction is undeniable but carries a forbidden edge. Livy Hart doesn’t shy away from how damaging of a scandal it could be and it gives more weight to the connection between Sadie and Leo that the chance at happiness and love feels bigger than the downfall could be. It is also acknowledged that the reality of this situation is Sadie would be the one to incinerated by the court of public opinion should it all be revealed. It reinforces the strength of the feelings she is experiencing for Leo that she’s choosing to take that risk for herself. Without spoilers, the way things work out shows great character development for both Sadie and Leo, and also really gives a taste of the characters we will hopefully be seeing more of.
I love Sadie’s approach as a head coach and seeing her find the best approach to connect with her players. Resistant as they are, she is persistent and she is good at her job. Her determination to show that she knows the sport, knows how to lead, and care truly care for her team as more than a commodity for the sport is really lovely.
(And because I am deeply attached to the Game Changers/Heated Rivalry universe right now (and forever), I cannot leave out the fact that Leo’s 13-year-old sister, Nola, is who I imagine Ilya Rozanov would have been as a preteen with a healthy home life — an adorable, charming little meddler.)
Thank you to Livy Hart for allowing me to dive into this world and trusting me with an early read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Where oh where do I begin??
Dirty Hit was absolutely the next story I needed Livy Hart to tell. Hockey romance? Hell yes!! And one where the FMC is the head coach of a NHL team?? Say less!
Sadie Rivers has worked her way up in the hockey world to become the first female head coach in the NHL. The Portland Fury needs a reset as they have been one of the worst teams in the league. She is determined to turn this team around, but first, she has to meet with the team's newest player Leo McLaren.
Leo McLaren has a secret. The injury that took him out of the last season isn't completely healed, but he isn't telling anyone that. He wants to play. Having been picked up by the Fury due to his past record and experience, he keeps the pain hidden and knows how to get past a physical in order to get clearance to lace up and get out on the rink.
What Sadie and Leo did not expect was that they had more in common than either one wanted to admit. As soon as they meet there is tension and that tension turns into some of the most amazing forbidden chemistry I have ever read in a book (cough... Hot tub roof scene...cough). Their banter is the best and neither take crap from the other, while both of them are consistently looking out for the other. The protective nature they both have while trying to keep their feelings for each other in check was so sweet and spicy. This book is full of stolen looks, pining, will they/won't they vibes.
With a wealth of incredible secondary characters (I absolutely adore Vivi and Isla and NEED to see them again) and some great hockey games, practices, and politics thrown in, this book has so many layers it kept me up at night turning the pages because I couldn't wait to see what was going to be the next obstacle thrown at Sadie and Leo. Livy Hart absolutely "Lit the Lamp" with her first outing with the Portland Fury.
Dirty Hit was absolutely the next story I needed Livy Hart to tell. Hockey romance? Hell yes!! And one where the FMC is the head coach of a NHL team?? Say less!
Sadie Rivers has worked her way up in the hockey world to become the first female head coach in the NHL. The Portland Fury needs a reset as they have been one of the worst teams in the league. She is determined to turn this team around, but first, she has to meet with the team's newest player Leo McLaren.
Leo McLaren has a secret. The injury that took him out of the last season isn't completely healed, but he isn't telling anyone that. He wants to play. Having been picked up by the Fury due to his past record and experience, he keeps the pain hidden and knows how to get past a physical in order to get clearance to lace up and get out on the rink.
What Sadie and Leo did not expect was that they had more in common than either one wanted to admit. As soon as they meet there is tension and that tension turns into some of the most amazing forbidden chemistry I have ever read in a book (cough... Hot tub roof scene...cough). Their banter is the best and neither take crap from the other, while both of them are consistently looking out for the other. The protective nature they both have while trying to keep their feelings for each other in check was so sweet and spicy. This book is full of stolen looks, pining, will they/won't they vibes.
With a wealth of incredible secondary characters (I absolutely adore Vivi and Isla and NEED to see them again) and some great hockey games, practices, and politics thrown in, this book has so many layers it kept me up at night turning the pages because I couldn't wait to see what was going to be the next obstacle thrown at Sadie and Leo. Livy Hart absolutely "Lit the Lamp" with her first outing with the Portland Fury.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Livy Hart is in her hockey romance era, and I’m not mad about it. Dirty Hit is a forbidden workplace romance between a sunshine hockey coach and her grumpy player. As always, the banter and humorous moments make Hart’s story special.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sadie can’t show that she’s nervous when she takes over as head coach of the Portland Fury. Despite her long resume as an Olympic medal winning goalie, people only see her as the first woman coach in the NHL. Meanwhile Leo’s been signed by the cellar-dwelling team as a last resort after last season’s injury. After both of them struggle to fit in with their new team, Sadie deputizes Leo to be her eyes and ears inside the locker room. But as they plan secret meetings to debrief, it becomes tougher to ignore their mutual attraction.
Sadie and Leo are a delightful grumpy sunshine pairing. Their relationship is a slow burn, but their chemistry is noticeable from the first page. And the secondary characters that shine here, too. Leo’s hockey-seeped family is tons of fun, especially his younger sister. And, it’s easy to see which teammates have future main character energy.
Dirty Hit is a cool hockey romance to warm up with this winter. As usual with Livy Hart books, the banter and humor is great, and I had a good time with this grumpy sunshine pair. I’m always excited for more books from this romcom queen, and I can’t wait to read what she writes next.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sadie can’t show that she’s nervous when she takes over as head coach of the Portland Fury. Despite her long resume as an Olympic medal winning goalie, people only see her as the first woman coach in the NHL. Meanwhile Leo’s been signed by the cellar-dwelling team as a last resort after last season’s injury. After both of them struggle to fit in with their new team, Sadie deputizes Leo to be her eyes and ears inside the locker room. But as they plan secret meetings to debrief, it becomes tougher to ignore their mutual attraction.
Sadie and Leo are a delightful grumpy sunshine pairing. Their relationship is a slow burn, but their chemistry is noticeable from the first page. And the secondary characters that shine here, too. Leo’s hockey-seeped family is tons of fun, especially his younger sister. And, it’s easy to see which teammates have future main character energy.
Dirty Hit is a cool hockey romance to warm up with this winter. As usual with Livy Hart books, the banter and humor is great, and I had a good time with this grumpy sunshine pair. I’m always excited for more books from this romcom queen, and I can’t wait to read what she writes next.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.
“Dirty Hit” is a romance novel by Livy Hart. I’ve read one other book by Ms. Hart and have a few others on my TBR list. This book follows newly hired NHL coach, Sadie Rivers, and a new member of the team, Leo McLaren. It’s pretty predictable, which is not a knock against this book at all, but it explores not only the world of hockey but also dealing with male toxicity (some of the players, some of the fans, some of the staff) and how life can throw one unexpected loops. While I liked the two main characters, I really really liked two supporting characters - HR rep Isla and assistant coach Vivi, they were both smart, supportive, and funny as all get out. I’m not a hockey person, so I was glad to see that the hockey talk was kept to a minimum. My only little gripe, is that the ending felt a bit rushed and that, also, my limited knowledge of females on coaching staffs (through a child’s career) was very different from Sadie’s (granted, not a Pro team, but the players were given a “this is how we do it, if you have any issues, you’ll be sitting on the bench if not cut” attitude - which I appreciated). But, that minor quibble aside, I can see many people really enjoying Ms. Hart’s writing (I do like it!) and how this story worked out for everyone, although at times the reader might wonder if that HEA is coming.
“Dirty Hit” is a romance novel by Livy Hart. I’ve read one other book by Ms. Hart and have a few others on my TBR list. This book follows newly hired NHL coach, Sadie Rivers, and a new member of the team, Leo McLaren. It’s pretty predictable, which is not a knock against this book at all, but it explores not only the world of hockey but also dealing with male toxicity (some of the players, some of the fans, some of the staff) and how life can throw one unexpected loops. While I liked the two main characters, I really really liked two supporting characters - HR rep Isla and assistant coach Vivi, they were both smart, supportive, and funny as all get out. I’m not a hockey person, so I was glad to see that the hockey talk was kept to a minimum. My only little gripe, is that the ending felt a bit rushed and that, also, my limited knowledge of females on coaching staffs (through a child’s career) was very different from Sadie’s (granted, not a Pro team, but the players were given a “this is how we do it, if you have any issues, you’ll be sitting on the bench if not cut” attitude - which I appreciated). But, that minor quibble aside, I can see many people really enjoying Ms. Hart’s writing (I do like it!) and how this story worked out for everyone, although at times the reader might wonder if that HEA is coming.
January 17, 2026
Livy Hart is one of my Rom-com queens!! She brings the perfect amount of plot and spice to her books, and has the best banter and one liners! This one is no exception and I can’t wait to see where this series goes!
Sadie and Leo start as coach and player (with a mutual attraction from the get go), who make a deal to work together to get their team and fellow players to the best they can be. Sadie has the weight of the world on her shoulders as a woman in the league and dealing with multiple man-splaining idiots and threats. And Leo comes in and all but says let me help you take that weight and I’ll put in on my bad shoulder that I’m lying to everyone about because he wants to put her first…but he’s grumpy about it which makes it that much more fun when he has his internal battles 😂 They had sweet and vulnerable moments and their hot moments were HOT! I loved seeing the team go from a complete mess to being there for each other. I wish Sadie stood up or spoke up to them a bit more, or a bit more fiercely. She had moments but I wanted to see her kinda rage and have the team have that like almost kind of “oh shit” moment. Great side characters that will bring that main character energy in future books so I’m excited to read those!!
Thank you to Entangled Publishing and Livy Hart for the advanced copy!
Sadie and Leo start as coach and player (with a mutual attraction from the get go), who make a deal to work together to get their team and fellow players to the best they can be. Sadie has the weight of the world on her shoulders as a woman in the league and dealing with multiple man-splaining idiots and threats. And Leo comes in and all but says let me help you take that weight and I’ll put in on my bad shoulder that I’m lying to everyone about because he wants to put her first…but he’s grumpy about it which makes it that much more fun when he has his internal battles 😂 They had sweet and vulnerable moments and their hot moments were HOT! I loved seeing the team go from a complete mess to being there for each other. I wish Sadie stood up or spoke up to them a bit more, or a bit more fiercely. She had moments but I wanted to see her kinda rage and have the team have that like almost kind of “oh shit” moment. Great side characters that will bring that main character energy in future books so I’m excited to read those!!
Thank you to Entangled Publishing and Livy Hart for the advanced copy!
January 2, 2026
Welcome to Livy Hart’s sports romance era! I couldn’t be more excited!! On a personal note, I got my first championship win in my fantasy football league! The high of being a woman in love with the game and its players is something Sadie L. Rivers and I share!
Dirty Hit is filled with some of my favorite tropes like, forced proximity, forbidden love, a broody hockey defenseman obsessed with his girl, a man who cooks, women in leadership positions, hot tubs, and blueberries. Leo and Sadie’s love is special because it requires both characters to search beyond the accolades of professional sports to find a deeper connection with and love of self. The friend’s and players in Dirty Hit are the best additions to this irresistible love story. I’m shamelessly obsessed with Vivian and Isla; two side characters who, like Sadie, are female powerhouses in their field and have the best amount of sass with the skills to back it up. Ugh, I love every character in this book! Except for Eric. Eww Eric!
Romance books written by Livy Hart always leave me blushing and kicking my feet giddy. It’s the comedy within conversations between characters paired with the hot yearning that make me thirsty for her books! Dirty Hit comes this February!!!!
Dirty Hit is filled with some of my favorite tropes like, forced proximity, forbidden love, a broody hockey defenseman obsessed with his girl, a man who cooks, women in leadership positions, hot tubs, and blueberries. Leo and Sadie’s love is special because it requires both characters to search beyond the accolades of professional sports to find a deeper connection with and love of self. The friend’s and players in Dirty Hit are the best additions to this irresistible love story. I’m shamelessly obsessed with Vivian and Isla; two side characters who, like Sadie, are female powerhouses in their field and have the best amount of sass with the skills to back it up. Ugh, I love every character in this book! Except for Eric. Eww Eric!
Romance books written by Livy Hart always leave me blushing and kicking my feet giddy. It’s the comedy within conversations between characters paired with the hot yearning that make me thirsty for her books! Dirty Hit comes this February!!!!
January 17, 2026
“I just couldn’t let you walk in that house without understanding that you, Sadie, are remarkable.” 💜
Fun fact, Livy Hart’s last book she released was my first ever Netgalley review and boy have I come a long way since then! Once I found out Livy was diving into the hockey romance genre, I knew I had to read this one immediately! And to no surprise I absolutely loved it!
Dirty Hit was the perfect blend of sports and romance. There was so much hockey content in this book, which sometimes is lacking in hockey romance books! But as a hockey fan myself, it was so amazing to read about it in detail! Plus, I really felt the Ted Lasso vibes with this book and truly loved the way things unfolded. All of the side characters and found family aspects were great too!
The hot tub scene with Sadie and Leo was also HOT (pun intended)! I loved their slow-burn forbidden romance and their journey to a happily ever after! I can’t wait to read future books set in this world!
If you’re looking for a hockey rom-com with grumpy x sunshine, found family, forbidden romance, and dual point-of-view, then be sure to check this one out! Dirty Hit releases on February 2nd!
Thank you so much to Entangled Publishing for the advanced copy!
Fun fact, Livy Hart’s last book she released was my first ever Netgalley review and boy have I come a long way since then! Once I found out Livy was diving into the hockey romance genre, I knew I had to read this one immediately! And to no surprise I absolutely loved it!
Dirty Hit was the perfect blend of sports and romance. There was so much hockey content in this book, which sometimes is lacking in hockey romance books! But as a hockey fan myself, it was so amazing to read about it in detail! Plus, I really felt the Ted Lasso vibes with this book and truly loved the way things unfolded. All of the side characters and found family aspects were great too!
The hot tub scene with Sadie and Leo was also HOT (pun intended)! I loved their slow-burn forbidden romance and their journey to a happily ever after! I can’t wait to read future books set in this world!
If you’re looking for a hockey rom-com with grumpy x sunshine, found family, forbidden romance, and dual point-of-view, then be sure to check this one out! Dirty Hit releases on February 2nd!
Thank you so much to Entangled Publishing for the advanced copy!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This blew my expectations out of the water.
No really, that just started my year off good we eating GOOD.
This was so fun and sexy as all h-e-double hockey sticks. Sorry, had to make the joke. Hart really leveled up with this. I love her romcoms but she is writing sports in a fresh way. I swooned my ass off every step of the way. The hot tub....whoa that tension was like none other. And then the- okay, don't want to spoil too much. The payoff is very worth it.
I could write a whole paragraph about Leo but you just need to see for yourself. I f*ck with this man so hard.
I locked myself in a room because I didn't want to stop reading. I am so high on girl power right now. I always appreciate how she writes friendship but this was another level to it. It was a romance, but it was more and I am kicking my feet and twirling my umbrella and skipping through the street. I need more Fury and I need it yesterday, but I will settle for tomorrow. As long as I get Vivi the assistant or Isla hr next I will be a happy gorl. I think it'll be Vivi.
The Ted Lasso comparison was spot on. That got my attention.
Will be back after a re-read.
No really, that just started my year off good we eating GOOD.
This was so fun and sexy as all h-e-double hockey sticks. Sorry, had to make the joke. Hart really leveled up with this. I love her romcoms but she is writing sports in a fresh way. I swooned my ass off every step of the way. The hot tub....whoa that tension was like none other. And then the- okay, don't want to spoil too much. The payoff is very worth it.
I could write a whole paragraph about Leo but you just need to see for yourself. I f*ck with this man so hard.
I locked myself in a room because I didn't want to stop reading. I am so high on girl power right now. I always appreciate how she writes friendship but this was another level to it. It was a romance, but it was more and I am kicking my feet and twirling my umbrella and skipping through the street. I need more Fury and I need it yesterday, but I will settle for tomorrow. As long as I get Vivi the assistant or Isla hr next I will be a happy gorl. I think it'll be Vivi.
The Ted Lasso comparison was spot on. That got my attention.
Will be back after a re-read.
January 17, 2026
Thank you entangled for this ARC!
Hockey romance in Portland Maine?! Sign me up.
Overall I really liked this book. A coach x player romance really makes me anxious for some reason so I was fighting that a lot of this book but I was really happy how it was handled in the end!
My favorite part of this book was our FMC - Sadie! Sadie was really badass and her and Vivi kicked ass as women coaches in the NHL. Sadie is the first ever woman head coach and seeing how she is treated, scared, bullied, etc was honestly terrifying, so believable, and absolutely heart breaking. I thought this was really well done and honestly could have had a bit more wrap up with this (though the very very very end was a perfect way to show slow change starting!)
While I loved that this book took place in Portland Maine, it did not have the Portland Maine feel that I was hoping for. Unfortunately I know this is fiction and liberties must be taken but I just love my city so it’s hard for me.
Hockey romance in Portland Maine?! Sign me up.
Overall I really liked this book. A coach x player romance really makes me anxious for some reason so I was fighting that a lot of this book but I was really happy how it was handled in the end!
My favorite part of this book was our FMC - Sadie! Sadie was really badass and her and Vivi kicked ass as women coaches in the NHL. Sadie is the first ever woman head coach and seeing how she is treated, scared, bullied, etc was honestly terrifying, so believable, and absolutely heart breaking. I thought this was really well done and honestly could have had a bit more wrap up with this (though the very very very end was a perfect way to show slow change starting!)
While I loved that this book took place in Portland Maine, it did not have the Portland Maine feel that I was hoping for. Unfortunately I know this is fiction and liberties must be taken but I just love my city so it’s hard for me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If there’s one thing I can count on in life, it’s that Livy Hart will never miss.
I tore through this smart and steamy hockey romance while hating work and sleep and anything that kept me from reading. Sadie Rivers is every woman who has ever had to step into the role of managing men who don’t want us there. I see you Sadie. I have been you. And I would have folded like a lawn chair for Leo too.
Because Leo…oh Leo…
Leo McLaren is f*cking HOT. The veteran presence (HELLO SHORESY VIBES) on the team, Leo the big, gruff, wounded D man, is not about these young hotshots disrespecting Sadie. Even if he’ll all day long… Like I said. Hot.
I am living for Hart’s sports romance era, and I’m literally frothing at the mouth for the next one.
In short: READ THIS BOOK!!!
I tore through this smart and steamy hockey romance while hating work and sleep and anything that kept me from reading. Sadie Rivers is every woman who has ever had to step into the role of managing men who don’t want us there. I see you Sadie. I have been you. And I would have folded like a lawn chair for Leo too.
Because Leo…oh Leo…
Leo McLaren is f*cking HOT. The veteran presence (HELLO SHORESY VIBES) on the team, Leo the big, gruff, wounded D man, is not about these young hotshots disrespecting Sadie. Even if he’ll all day long… Like I said. Hot.
I am living for Hart’s sports romance era, and I’m literally frothing at the mouth for the next one.
In short: READ THIS BOOK!!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.75 stars rounded up
Livy Hart knows how to write romance with the perfect amount of plot and spice. I always enjoy her stories, and this one was no different. I raced through it! A coach/player relationship is always going to have me giving a bit of side eye, and I wish there had been more focus on both of their growing friendships with the rest of the team, but overall, I think it was done well. But if you don’t like that trope, you won’t like this book. Leo was just grumpy enough. Sadie was sweet, and I rooted for her so hard. Sometimes I wanted her to be a bit stronger, but I think I was pushing my ideas of what a hockey coach should be like onto her...? Overall, I really liked both of them and their romance!
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
Livy Hart knows how to write romance with the perfect amount of plot and spice. I always enjoy her stories, and this one was no different. I raced through it! A coach/player relationship is always going to have me giving a bit of side eye, and I wish there had been more focus on both of their growing friendships with the rest of the team, but overall, I think it was done well. But if you don’t like that trope, you won’t like this book. Leo was just grumpy enough. Sadie was sweet, and I rooted for her so hard. Sometimes I wanted her to be a bit stronger, but I think I was pushing my ideas of what a hockey coach should be like onto her...? Overall, I really liked both of them and their romance!
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author and publisher for my #gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
From day 1, I’ve said if Livy writes it, I WILL read it. And y’all, this book? One of her best. The way I smiled and honestly almost cried a few times? I never wanted to put it down.
The way I’m obsessed with both Sadie and Leo? (And really most of the characters?) I was swooning over Leo. He * might * be my new favorite Livy hero. The way he cared about Sadie and how she was perceived 🥹 oh and Sadie. I would like to be friends with her (and Vivi and Isla duh)! I loved her and her strength and perseverance. I loved watching Sadie and Leo really get to know each other and see that magnetic pull between them.
This one is out February 2nd. It’s book 1 in the series and absolutely needs to be on your radar. Now to (im)patiently wait for the rest of the series.
From day 1, I’ve said if Livy writes it, I WILL read it. And y’all, this book? One of her best. The way I smiled and honestly almost cried a few times? I never wanted to put it down.
The way I’m obsessed with both Sadie and Leo? (And really most of the characters?) I was swooning over Leo. He * might * be my new favorite Livy hero. The way he cared about Sadie and how she was perceived 🥹 oh and Sadie. I would like to be friends with her (and Vivi and Isla duh)! I loved her and her strength and perseverance. I loved watching Sadie and Leo really get to know each other and see that magnetic pull between them.
This one is out February 2nd. It’s book 1 in the series and absolutely needs to be on your radar. Now to (im)patiently wait for the rest of the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dirty Hit is a spicy, forbidden, dual POV romance packed with high stakes and absolutely undeniable chemistry. The flirt heavy tension and aching, off limits longing between Leo and Sadie make every interaction feel electric every glance charged with the risk of everything crashing down if they’re discovered. Experiencing their story from both perspectives only intensifies the yearning, the temptation, and the emotional stakes. Sadie shines as the NHL's first female head coach capable, unshakeable, and deeply invested in her team while Leo’s journey from injury to redemption adds a layer of vulnerability and emotional depth that hits hard. With charged banter, relentless yearning, and Livy Hart’s signature blend of heat and heart, this story delivers in all the best ways.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really enjoyed this sports romance. An emotionally battered female coach, Sadie Rivers, goes toe-to-toe with all the naysayers in the professional hockey world. Her new team doesn't believe in her, nor her defense and offense coaches, nor the assistant GM (who is a real a**hole). Fortunately the GM believes she can turn the team around and she has one season to do it. Hockey star Leo MacLaren has been picked up by this loser team after what should have been a career ending injury. He knows he has to produce or it's the end of the line for him. It doesn't help that people keep comparing him to his hockey legend and TV commentator father, Hugo. Nope, not at all. This is a friends to enemies, grumpy/sunshine story that has some real issues to deal with.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4 ⭐ 2 🌶️
This was such a sweet and fun forbidden romance. Livy has been a must read for a while now and Dirty Hit did not disappoint. I loved how Sadie and Leo handled their relationship in secret and ultimately how it got brought to light. Vivi was such a great friend throughout it all too.
I adored how strong Sadie was during the turbulence with her team. She had Leo on her side eventually, but she really won them over by staying the course and unaliving them with kindness.
I can't wait to see what's next up in this series! Thank you so much to Entangled for the advanced copy!
This was such a sweet and fun forbidden romance. Livy has been a must read for a while now and Dirty Hit did not disappoint. I loved how Sadie and Leo handled their relationship in secret and ultimately how it got brought to light. Vivi was such a great friend throughout it all too.
I adored how strong Sadie was during the turbulence with her team. She had Leo on her side eventually, but she really won them over by staying the course and unaliving them with kindness.
I can't wait to see what's next up in this series! Thank you so much to Entangled for the advanced copy!
January 18, 2026
I loved Sadie and Leo together and was extremely satisfied with their HEA. However, there were a few parts of the plot that were too skipped over and felt like holes. I had a great time but wish the story was a bit more flushed out.
January 2, 2026
Loveeeee! Forever thinking about Sadie and Leo. Love the new take on a well loved trope.
January 14, 2026
!!!!! All the feels - so good!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
RTC! Love this book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Uneven plot development where some plots were dropped (like the hostile conditioning coaches). The romance developed too fast given how high the stakes were for Sadie.
Full RTC
Full RTC
January 18, 2026
Livy Hart never disappoints. I loved everything about Dirty Hit, and I can’t wait to read more set in the Portland Fury universe!
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews