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Dirty Puckers #2
Puck, Marry, Kill
A hockey star’s fix his new team. The problem? He’s falling for the coach’s off-limits daughter in this spicy, heartfelt romance from Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author Lauren Landish.
NHL defenseman Dominic Lee is traded mid-season with one save a struggling team from itself. The complication? Briar Johns—a guarded single mom, zookeeper, and his new coach’s daughter. She’s strictly off-limits, but one look at her and Dominic knows some rules are meant to be broken. Too bad hockey players—and relationships—are a firm never again for Briar.
Between surviving a toxic marriage, managing an emotionally absent father, and raising her son Harley, Briar only has room for things that bring joy. A cocky defenseman should never make that list. Dominic isn’t like the men from her past, though. He shows up for Harley’s practices. He listens. He does the dishes. And he’s patient enough to wait for her walls to come down.
When her father forbids their relationship and threatens Dominic’s career, the choice should be simple. Except Briar’s tired of letting fear win. And walking away from her and Harley? That’s the one play Dominic refuses to make.
NHL defenseman Dominic Lee is traded mid-season with one save a struggling team from itself. The complication? Briar Johns—a guarded single mom, zookeeper, and his new coach’s daughter. She’s strictly off-limits, but one look at her and Dominic knows some rules are meant to be broken. Too bad hockey players—and relationships—are a firm never again for Briar.
Between surviving a toxic marriage, managing an emotionally absent father, and raising her son Harley, Briar only has room for things that bring joy. A cocky defenseman should never make that list. Dominic isn’t like the men from her past, though. He shows up for Harley’s practices. He listens. He does the dishes. And he’s patient enough to wait for her walls to come down.
When her father forbids their relationship and threatens Dominic’s career, the choice should be simple. Except Briar’s tired of letting fear win. And walking away from her and Harley? That’s the one play Dominic refuses to make.
Kindle Edition
Published August 11, 2026
About the author
Lauren Landish
180 books6,935 followersLauren Landish is a WALL STREET JOURNAL & USA TODAY bestselling author and her books have garnered a legion of praise from her readers.
When she’s not plotting about how she will introduce you to your next sexy as hell book boyfriend, you can find her deep, deep in her writing cave, furiously tapping away on her keyboard, writing scenes that would make even a hardened sailor blush.
Lauren, who lives in NC with her boyfriend and fur baby, warmly invites you to her worlds of rock hard abs, chiseled smiles, and men with deep, fat pockets…but beware! These stories are guaranteed to have you addicted and needing your next fix!
Visit Lauren's Website at: http://www.laurenlandish.com/
Join the Mailing list at: http://www.subscribepage.com/w1h8x6
Connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/lauren.landish
Follow me on twitter: https://twitter.com/laurenlandish
When she’s not plotting about how she will introduce you to your next sexy as hell book boyfriend, you can find her deep, deep in her writing cave, furiously tapping away on her keyboard, writing scenes that would make even a hardened sailor blush.
Lauren, who lives in NC with her boyfriend and fur baby, warmly invites you to her worlds of rock hard abs, chiseled smiles, and men with deep, fat pockets…but beware! These stories are guaranteed to have you addicted and needing your next fix!
Visit Lauren's Website at: http://www.laurenlandish.com/
Join the Mailing list at: http://www.subscribepage.com/w1h8x6
Connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/lauren.landish
Follow me on twitter: https://twitter.com/laurenlandish
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August 14, 2026Thoughts:
1. I freaking love this book. My only real issue was that Briar had only been with one man, her now ex-husband and her son's father. And, of course, their sex life was meh. Well, hers with him. Because he cheated more than once. I get that it makes a bit more sense, her lack of experience, that is, seeing as how they had sex at eighteen and were married at nineteen with a newborn. But still. I'm tired of only virgin heroines or their sexual history is always lackluster while neither are rarely the case for Heroes in books.
1. I freaking love this book. My only real issue was that Briar had only been with one man, her now ex-husband and her son's father. And, of course, their sex life was meh. Well, hers with him. Because he cheated more than once. I get that it makes a bit more sense, her lack of experience, that is, seeing as how they had sex at eighteen and were married at nineteen with a newborn. But still. I'm tired of only virgin heroines or their sexual history is always lackluster while neither are rarely the case for Heroes in books.
August 13, 2026
Dominic has been traded mid-season from his Stanley cup winning NHL team to the Blizzard. Moving away from his family and friends is hard, especially when he wants to find his forever like his best friend and his sister Penny did. Then he meets Briar and thinks she's the one, but she's just gotten out of a toxic relationship, has a young son, and she's the coach's daughter... totally off limits!
This was a sweet, slow burn hockey romance with relatable characters, great side characters, a cute kid, and fun animal facts from zookeeper Briar. It was refreshing to have a fmc with an occupation totally unrelated to hockey! I didn't read the first book in the series, but any details necessary to this story were explained.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own
This was a sweet, slow burn hockey romance with relatable characters, great side characters, a cute kid, and fun animal facts from zookeeper Briar. It was refreshing to have a fmc with an occupation totally unrelated to hockey! I didn't read the first book in the series, but any details necessary to this story were explained.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own
August 13, 2026
3⭐️ I like a good single mom or single dad trope. This one wasn’t my favorite in that I felt the story was superficial, that I was being told a lot rather than shown, and like most other sports romances. I enjoyed that our FMC had a unique job, zookeeper, and that the author made more real life silly interactions between the main characters than what I’ve read in the past but I just wanted more. This was my first book by this author and I’d be willing to try more from her.
🎧 audiobook
🎧 audiobook
August 11, 2026
dom is such a swoonfest <3 <3
June 7, 2026
ARC review to come <3
June 4, 2026
Thank you so much NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC. 2.5⭐️
This book was really refreshing because lately most books have the same tropes with the same playboy mmc’s and inexperienced and boring fmc’s. Lauren Landish does that very well because the first book of this series was really really good.
For example, I loved that Briar was a zookeeper and it was so cute when she said random animal facts. I feel like that made her so unique because most of the time in sports romances the heroine works in something sports related so it was good to see something so different mostly because I love when characters have weird or interesting or unusual hobbies/jobs.
Nevertheless I must say I didn’t connect much with the characters. It’s not that I didn’t like them but more so that they felt a little bland. Whereas in the first one “The diamond puck-up” I enjoyed the main characters much more.
The plot was somewhat interesting but it just felt very surface level which made it difficult to connect with the characters.
I most definitely will continue to read Lauren Landish’s books.
This book was really refreshing because lately most books have the same tropes with the same playboy mmc’s and inexperienced and boring fmc’s. Lauren Landish does that very well because the first book of this series was really really good.
For example, I loved that Briar was a zookeeper and it was so cute when she said random animal facts. I feel like that made her so unique because most of the time in sports romances the heroine works in something sports related so it was good to see something so different mostly because I love when characters have weird or interesting or unusual hobbies/jobs.
Nevertheless I must say I didn’t connect much with the characters. It’s not that I didn’t like them but more so that they felt a little bland. Whereas in the first one “The diamond puck-up” I enjoyed the main characters much more.
The plot was somewhat interesting but it just felt very surface level which made it difficult to connect with the characters.
I most definitely will continue to read Lauren Landish’s books.
August 11, 2026
PUCK, MARRY, KILL is the second instalment in Lauren Landish’s contemporary, adult DIRTY PUCKERS erotic, hockey romance series. This is defenseman Dominic Lee, and zoo caretaker Briar Boothe Johns’ story line. PUCK, MARRY , KILL can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. DOMINIC LEE is Penny’s brother (The Diamond Puck UP 1).
Told from dual first person perspectives (Dom and Briar) PUCK, MARRY, KILL follows the forbidden relationships between our story line couple. Dominic Lee, defenseman for the Stanley Cup champion Ice Hawks, has been traded mid-season to the Blizzard, a team floundering near the bottom, and begins to wonder what he did wrong. Dominic’s trade is meant to help the struggling Blizzard, whose lineup is a mess, and whose leadership is pulling the team towards collapse but Dominic never expected to come face to face with his future in the guise of single mother Briar Johns, daughter of the cynical and soured Blizzard coach. Briar doesn’t do relationships in the face of her contemptuous divorce but Dominic is determined to prove Briar is worthy of her own happily ever after.
The world building focuses on ‘team building’, friendships, and dysfunctional family dynamics. Robert Boothe, coach of the Blizzard, has a team deteriorating both on and off the ice, due in part to his questionable techniques, and our hero has been tasked with returning the Blizzard to a group worthy of being called a winning team.
The relationship between Dom and Briar is one of immediate attraction but Dom has no idea as to Briar’s familial connections. Briar is a single mother who has struggled on her own but a woman who places her son first, and everyone else if forced to take a back seat . Dom is determined to get to know both Briar and her son Harley, a young boy who needs more than friendship but a man he can count on. The $ex scenes are passionate and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, energetic and struggling secondary and supporting characters including the players and coaching staff of the Blizzards hockey team. We are introduced to Coach Robert Boothe and his wife Vanessa, as well as Briar’s son Harley, and her ex Tyler Johns, as well as the return of Griffin Mahoney and Penny Lee.
PUCK, MARRY, KILL is a story of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, struggle and disharmony, family and friendships, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is captivating and engaging; the characters are enthusiastic and determined; the romance is seductive and intimate.
copy supplied for review
Told from dual first person perspectives (Dom and Briar) PUCK, MARRY, KILL follows the forbidden relationships between our story line couple. Dominic Lee, defenseman for the Stanley Cup champion Ice Hawks, has been traded mid-season to the Blizzard, a team floundering near the bottom, and begins to wonder what he did wrong. Dominic’s trade is meant to help the struggling Blizzard, whose lineup is a mess, and whose leadership is pulling the team towards collapse but Dominic never expected to come face to face with his future in the guise of single mother Briar Johns, daughter of the cynical and soured Blizzard coach. Briar doesn’t do relationships in the face of her contemptuous divorce but Dominic is determined to prove Briar is worthy of her own happily ever after.
The world building focuses on ‘team building’, friendships, and dysfunctional family dynamics. Robert Boothe, coach of the Blizzard, has a team deteriorating both on and off the ice, due in part to his questionable techniques, and our hero has been tasked with returning the Blizzard to a group worthy of being called a winning team.
The relationship between Dom and Briar is one of immediate attraction but Dom has no idea as to Briar’s familial connections. Briar is a single mother who has struggled on her own but a woman who places her son first, and everyone else if forced to take a back seat . Dom is determined to get to know both Briar and her son Harley, a young boy who needs more than friendship but a man he can count on. The $ex scenes are passionate and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, energetic and struggling secondary and supporting characters including the players and coaching staff of the Blizzards hockey team. We are introduced to Coach Robert Boothe and his wife Vanessa, as well as Briar’s son Harley, and her ex Tyler Johns, as well as the return of Griffin Mahoney and Penny Lee.
PUCK, MARRY, KILL is a story of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, struggle and disharmony, family and friendships, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is captivating and engaging; the characters are enthusiastic and determined; the romance is seductive and intimate.
copy supplied for review
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“Puck, Marry, Kill” is an entertaining, spicy yet deeply emotional read about second chances in life, about learning to trust someone again after being hurt too many times, about healing from painful experiences, and about finding emotional stability—a book I literally devoured.
I was particularly captivated by Dominic and Briar’s personalities, which have absolutely nothing in common with the clichéd characters of standard sports romances. Dominic isn’t the rough-and-tumble, superficial hockey player, nor is Briar a heroine who’s desperate to find a partner at any cost.
Both actually embody the opposite: Beneath his rough exterior, Dominic is a rather emotional, values-driven, and thoughtful person who prioritizes family and sincere, deep feelings above all else. As for Briar, while life has certainly left its mark on her, she competently navigates her life as a single mother on her own despite all the hardships, without expecting help from anyone—help she has not received in the past anyway.
I love how Dominic and Briar truly SEE each other, even though they hide behind masks – especially Briar, who has endured a toxic marriage and a childhood with a largely absent father – and how he handles the wounds of her past with such care, tenderness, patience, and mindfulness, gradually helping her heal. I love the characters’ vulnerability, the openness they show toward each other as they get to know one another and learn to trust each other, as well as their down-to-earth nature and authenticity.
Another highlight of this story is Briar’s son Harley, who captivates readers with his personality, a maturity and wisdom astonishing for his age, and his enthusiasm for everything related to hockey. The instant bond between him and Dominic adds such a heartwarming touch to this moving story.
However, this book isn't just about deep emotions; it has a fun side, too—after all, it is an ice hockey romance. The banter between the new teammates is hilarious at times, as are the quirky animal trivia facts Briar shares.
In short: I love this latest work from Ms. Landish’s pen and wish this wonderful series wouldn’t end after just the second book. There’s still so much to learn about the other players on this hockey team.
I would like to thank the author and Montlake for this ARC.
I was particularly captivated by Dominic and Briar’s personalities, which have absolutely nothing in common with the clichéd characters of standard sports romances. Dominic isn’t the rough-and-tumble, superficial hockey player, nor is Briar a heroine who’s desperate to find a partner at any cost.
Both actually embody the opposite: Beneath his rough exterior, Dominic is a rather emotional, values-driven, and thoughtful person who prioritizes family and sincere, deep feelings above all else. As for Briar, while life has certainly left its mark on her, she competently navigates her life as a single mother on her own despite all the hardships, without expecting help from anyone—help she has not received in the past anyway.
I love how Dominic and Briar truly SEE each other, even though they hide behind masks – especially Briar, who has endured a toxic marriage and a childhood with a largely absent father – and how he handles the wounds of her past with such care, tenderness, patience, and mindfulness, gradually helping her heal. I love the characters’ vulnerability, the openness they show toward each other as they get to know one another and learn to trust each other, as well as their down-to-earth nature and authenticity.
Another highlight of this story is Briar’s son Harley, who captivates readers with his personality, a maturity and wisdom astonishing for his age, and his enthusiasm for everything related to hockey. The instant bond between him and Dominic adds such a heartwarming touch to this moving story.
However, this book isn't just about deep emotions; it has a fun side, too—after all, it is an ice hockey romance. The banter between the new teammates is hilarious at times, as are the quirky animal trivia facts Briar shares.
In short: I love this latest work from Ms. Landish’s pen and wish this wonderful series wouldn’t end after just the second book. There’s still so much to learn about the other players on this hockey team.
I would like to thank the author and Montlake for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received an advanced reader copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine
👩👦 Single Mom
🛡️ Protective MMC
🐒 Zoo Setting
✨ Emotional Healing
💌 Slow Burn Romance
🏠 Small Town Feel
🤍 Soft & Comforting Romance
This book ended up being so much more emotional than I expected from a hockey romance. Beneath the sports backdrop, it’s really a story about trust, second chances, and finding people who make life feel safe again.
What I loved most was how grounded the characters felt. Briar isn’t written as someone waiting to be saved — she’s already carrying the weight of motherhood, responsibility, and past disappointments on her own. Her love for Harley shaped every decision she made, and that made her character feel incredibly genuine. Watching her slowly open herself up instead of instantly falling was one of the strongest parts of the story for me.
Dom completely surprised me too. He’s not the loud, cocky hockey player you usually expect in sports romances. He’s quieter, protective, and much softer underneath his grumpy exterior. I really liked how his feelings showed through actions rather than just words. The way he naturally fit into Briar and Harley’s life made the romance feel comforting and believable.
And Harley absolutely stole scenes without trying to. He had so much personality and emotional awareness that every interaction involving him felt meaningful. The bond that developed between him and Dom added so much warmth to the story and made the found-family aspect even more special.
I also appreciated that the story focused just as much on healing and stability as it did romance. Between Briar’s work at the zoo, Dom adjusting to changes in his career, and the complicated family dynamics throughout the book, the story felt layered without becoming overly heavy.
Overall, this was heartfelt, comforting, and emotionally satisfying. It’s the kind of romance that feels soft and steady instead of dramatic, and I really enjoyed that about it. Definitely a 5-star read for me, and now I’m excited to continue with the series 🤍Lauren Landish
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine
👩👦 Single Mom
🛡️ Protective MMC
🐒 Zoo Setting
✨ Emotional Healing
💌 Slow Burn Romance
🏠 Small Town Feel
🤍 Soft & Comforting Romance
This book ended up being so much more emotional than I expected from a hockey romance. Beneath the sports backdrop, it’s really a story about trust, second chances, and finding people who make life feel safe again.
What I loved most was how grounded the characters felt. Briar isn’t written as someone waiting to be saved — she’s already carrying the weight of motherhood, responsibility, and past disappointments on her own. Her love for Harley shaped every decision she made, and that made her character feel incredibly genuine. Watching her slowly open herself up instead of instantly falling was one of the strongest parts of the story for me.
Dom completely surprised me too. He’s not the loud, cocky hockey player you usually expect in sports romances. He’s quieter, protective, and much softer underneath his grumpy exterior. I really liked how his feelings showed through actions rather than just words. The way he naturally fit into Briar and Harley’s life made the romance feel comforting and believable.
And Harley absolutely stole scenes without trying to. He had so much personality and emotional awareness that every interaction involving him felt meaningful. The bond that developed between him and Dom added so much warmth to the story and made the found-family aspect even more special.
I also appreciated that the story focused just as much on healing and stability as it did romance. Between Briar’s work at the zoo, Dom adjusting to changes in his career, and the complicated family dynamics throughout the book, the story felt layered without becoming overly heavy.
Overall, this was heartfelt, comforting, and emotionally satisfying. It’s the kind of romance that feels soft and steady instead of dramatic, and I really enjoyed that about it. Definitely a 5-star read for me, and now I’m excited to continue with the series 🤍Lauren Landish
August 7, 2026
Audiobook Review 🎧:
Okay, I’m just going to start with the narration because WOW. Shiloh James and Ryan West were amazing! The emotion they put into these characters was absolutely perfect. Every reaction, every little bit of tension, every emotional moment, it all came through exactly the way it needed to. I genuinely have zero complaints about the narration… and if you know me, you know that is a BIG statement because I always have something to say. But nope. Nothing. Nada. They nailed it. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this book!
And while this is technically a hockey romance, I found Briar’s side of the story surprisingly relatable. Because, honestly…who is going to bed every single night wearing slinky lingerie like 99% of romance heroines apparently do?! Not me. Give me a giraffe T-shirt and knee-high giraffe socks and I am LIVING MY BEST LIFE. So Briar? Yeah. I get her. I also LOVED that she had such an unconventional job. A zookeeper?! How freaking cool. And the fact that she fully owned it, not just at the zoo but outside of it too, made me love her even more.
But can we talk about her ex? I thought the author handled the whole verbally abusive, narcissistic ex situation really well. It felt realistic without completely taking over the story. Although I have to admit, I was literally laughing my butt off when her ex “dick dialed” her. And in the back of my mind I was sitting there like: PLEASE LET DOMINIC ANSWER HIS CALL. I was crossing every finger and toe hoping Briar would answer the video call and somehow Dominic would end up on a three-way call so he could absolutely ROAST THE CRAP OUT OF HIM hahah.
Also…Dominic Lee. Swoon. Sometimes a girl just needs a Dominic Lee in her life. You know, the kind of man who will willingly dive headfirst into swampy flamingo poop water to unclog a drain for you. I mean…absolute SWOON.
What I really loved about this book was the combination of hockey romance with actual, relatable, everyday life. It wasn’t just hockey, hockey, hockey. There was this perfect balance of normalcy, humor, relationships, and that slight mental health aspect that really rounded everything out. And now I’m REALLY hoping there’s going to be a book three because I absolutely want to see where this series goes next!
Rated: 4 out of 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
* I received a free ALC of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Okay, I’m just going to start with the narration because WOW. Shiloh James and Ryan West were amazing! The emotion they put into these characters was absolutely perfect. Every reaction, every little bit of tension, every emotional moment, it all came through exactly the way it needed to. I genuinely have zero complaints about the narration… and if you know me, you know that is a BIG statement because I always have something to say. But nope. Nothing. Nada. They nailed it. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this book!
And while this is technically a hockey romance, I found Briar’s side of the story surprisingly relatable. Because, honestly…who is going to bed every single night wearing slinky lingerie like 99% of romance heroines apparently do?! Not me. Give me a giraffe T-shirt and knee-high giraffe socks and I am LIVING MY BEST LIFE. So Briar? Yeah. I get her. I also LOVED that she had such an unconventional job. A zookeeper?! How freaking cool. And the fact that she fully owned it, not just at the zoo but outside of it too, made me love her even more.
But can we talk about her ex? I thought the author handled the whole verbally abusive, narcissistic ex situation really well. It felt realistic without completely taking over the story. Although I have to admit, I was literally laughing my butt off when her ex “dick dialed” her. And in the back of my mind I was sitting there like: PLEASE LET DOMINIC ANSWER HIS CALL. I was crossing every finger and toe hoping Briar would answer the video call and somehow Dominic would end up on a three-way call so he could absolutely ROAST THE CRAP OUT OF HIM hahah.
Also…Dominic Lee. Swoon. Sometimes a girl just needs a Dominic Lee in her life. You know, the kind of man who will willingly dive headfirst into swampy flamingo poop water to unclog a drain for you. I mean…absolute SWOON.
What I really loved about this book was the combination of hockey romance with actual, relatable, everyday life. It wasn’t just hockey, hockey, hockey. There was this perfect balance of normalcy, humor, relationships, and that slight mental health aspect that really rounded everything out. And now I’m REALLY hoping there’s going to be a book three because I absolutely want to see where this series goes next!
Rated: 4 out of 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
* I received a free ALC of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received an advanced reader copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was such a heartfelt hockey romance. At its core, it’s not just a love story, but also a story about rebuilding trust, family, and learning how to let people in after life has taught you to be guarded.
Briar’s journey really stood out to me. Her devotion to her son and the sacrifices she makes for him felt incredibly real and grounding. She’s a character who has clearly had to carry a lot on her own, and I liked how the story didn’t rush her healing or her ability to trust Dom. That slow emotional shift made her arc feel authentic rather than forced.
Dom was a really interesting MMC for me because he wasn’t the typical flashy hockey player archetype. I liked that he came across a bit grumpy and reserved on the surface, but underneath that he was steady, loyal, and very intentional about the people he cared about. His relationship with Briar felt built on patience and consistency rather than instant chemistry alone, which I appreciated.
One of my favourite parts of this book was actually Harley. He felt written with so much personality. He's observant, clever, and emotionally aware in a way that made him feel very real rather than just a “cute kid added for impact.” The dynamic between him and Dom added a really sweet layer to the story that made the found-family aspect even stronger.
I also really enjoyed how different this felt compared to a lot of hockey romances I’ve read. Instead of the usual “player vs. good girl” setup, this leaned more into healing, responsibility, and building something stable. Briar working at the zoo added a really unique touch too as it gave her character an extra layer and made her life outside of romance feel fully developed.
Overall, this was emotional, grounded, and genuinely comforting to read. It’s a story about choosing family in different forms and learning that love can look steady instead of chaotic. A strong 4-star read for me, and I’d definitely continue the series.
This was such a heartfelt hockey romance. At its core, it’s not just a love story, but also a story about rebuilding trust, family, and learning how to let people in after life has taught you to be guarded.
Briar’s journey really stood out to me. Her devotion to her son and the sacrifices she makes for him felt incredibly real and grounding. She’s a character who has clearly had to carry a lot on her own, and I liked how the story didn’t rush her healing or her ability to trust Dom. That slow emotional shift made her arc feel authentic rather than forced.
Dom was a really interesting MMC for me because he wasn’t the typical flashy hockey player archetype. I liked that he came across a bit grumpy and reserved on the surface, but underneath that he was steady, loyal, and very intentional about the people he cared about. His relationship with Briar felt built on patience and consistency rather than instant chemistry alone, which I appreciated.
One of my favourite parts of this book was actually Harley. He felt written with so much personality. He's observant, clever, and emotionally aware in a way that made him feel very real rather than just a “cute kid added for impact.” The dynamic between him and Dom added a really sweet layer to the story that made the found-family aspect even stronger.
I also really enjoyed how different this felt compared to a lot of hockey romances I’ve read. Instead of the usual “player vs. good girl” setup, this leaned more into healing, responsibility, and building something stable. Briar working at the zoo added a really unique touch too as it gave her character an extra layer and made her life outside of romance feel fully developed.
Overall, this was emotional, grounded, and genuinely comforting to read. It’s a story about choosing family in different forms and learning that love can look steady instead of chaotic. A strong 4-star read for me, and I’d definitely continue the series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Sports romances continue to be one of my favorite comfort reads, and hockey romances are always near the top of the list. Add in a single mom heroine and a player who is great with kids, and I was immediately interested in this book. From the very beginning, it had the perfect combination of romance, family dynamics, and emotional growth that keeps me turning pages.
I really liked both Briar and Dominic right away. Briar has been through a lot, and it was easy to understand why she was cautious about letting someone new into her life. Between her failed marriage and her complicated relationship with her father, she had plenty of reasons to keep her guard up. Dominic, on the other hand, was impossible not to like. Yes, his attempts at humor were sometimes a little corny, but that was part of his charm. More importantly, he consistently showed up for the people he cared about. I especially loved how naturally he connected with Harley and how patient he was with Briar as she worked through her fears and insecurities.
One of my favorite aspects of the story was that it was about more than just the romance. I enjoyed watching Briar begin to heal some of the wounds left by her father's absence and come to a better understanding of who he was as a person. I also liked seeing Dominic's impact on the team. He brought a sense of family and support that was clearly missing, and it was rewarding to watch those relationships develop throughout the book.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. The romance was sweet, the emotional moments felt earned, and I found myself rooting for both Briar and Dominic from start to finish. By the end, I was just as invested in the team's future as I was in the relationship. This was a great addition to the series, and I am definitely looking forward to reading more.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
I really liked both Briar and Dominic right away. Briar has been through a lot, and it was easy to understand why she was cautious about letting someone new into her life. Between her failed marriage and her complicated relationship with her father, she had plenty of reasons to keep her guard up. Dominic, on the other hand, was impossible not to like. Yes, his attempts at humor were sometimes a little corny, but that was part of his charm. More importantly, he consistently showed up for the people he cared about. I especially loved how naturally he connected with Harley and how patient he was with Briar as she worked through her fears and insecurities.
One of my favorite aspects of the story was that it was about more than just the romance. I enjoyed watching Briar begin to heal some of the wounds left by her father's absence and come to a better understanding of who he was as a person. I also liked seeing Dominic's impact on the team. He brought a sense of family and support that was clearly missing, and it was rewarding to watch those relationships develop throughout the book.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. The romance was sweet, the emotional moments felt earned, and I found myself rooting for both Briar and Dominic from start to finish. By the end, I was just as invested in the team's future as I was in the relationship. This was a great addition to the series, and I am definitely looking forward to reading more.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Puck, Marry, Kill by Lauren Landish is a surprisingly emotional, witty, and deeply heartwarming sports romance that goes far beyond the typical hockey backdrop. Featuring a compelling single-mom heroine, an off-limits dynamic, and a foundational focus on healing and trust, this book delivers an unforgettable story of second chances.
The narrative centers on Dominic Lee, an NHL defenseman traded mid-season with a single mission to save a struggling team. Beneath his rough athletic exterior, Dominic is a values-driven, thoughtful, and remarkably gentle man who is entirely past his playing days and looking for a genuine connection. The complication arises when he meets Briar Johns—a guarded single mother, zookeeper, and his new coach’s daughter who has sworn off hockey players and relationships entirely after surviving a toxic marriage and an absent father. Instead of conforming to romance tropes, both characters feel grounded and authentic, especially Briar, who capably manages her life and prioritizes her young son, Harley, without waiting to be saved.
What makes their slow-burn connection so special is how Dominic shows up through actions rather than just words—whether he is pitching in with chores, bringing endless patience to break down her walls, or forming an instant, heartwarming bond with Harley, whose maturity, wisdom, and hockey obsession steal every scene he is in. Blending hilarious teammate banter, quirky animal trivia shared by Briar, delightful cameos from previous series favorites, and high stakes when the coach forbids their romance, the story maintains a perfect balance of humor, heat, and emotional depth. Elevated by the stellar, chemistry-filled narration of Shiloh James and Ryan West, this heartfelt and comforting read is an absolute winner from start to finish.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The narrative centers on Dominic Lee, an NHL defenseman traded mid-season with a single mission to save a struggling team. Beneath his rough athletic exterior, Dominic is a values-driven, thoughtful, and remarkably gentle man who is entirely past his playing days and looking for a genuine connection. The complication arises when he meets Briar Johns—a guarded single mother, zookeeper, and his new coach’s daughter who has sworn off hockey players and relationships entirely after surviving a toxic marriage and an absent father. Instead of conforming to romance tropes, both characters feel grounded and authentic, especially Briar, who capably manages her life and prioritizes her young son, Harley, without waiting to be saved.
What makes their slow-burn connection so special is how Dominic shows up through actions rather than just words—whether he is pitching in with chores, bringing endless patience to break down her walls, or forming an instant, heartwarming bond with Harley, whose maturity, wisdom, and hockey obsession steal every scene he is in. Blending hilarious teammate banter, quirky animal trivia shared by Briar, delightful cameos from previous series favorites, and high stakes when the coach forbids their romance, the story maintains a perfect balance of humor, heat, and emotional depth. Elevated by the stellar, chemistry-filled narration of Shiloh James and Ryan West, this heartfelt and comforting read is an absolute winner from start to finish.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a fairly light weight bubble gum romance set in the world of hockey players because clearly, we are in the hockey era.
Dom Lee is the quintessential romance novel 'perfect' man. He is not only good looking, and in fabulous physical condition, but possessed of a level of empathy, kindness and generosity of spirit only found in books. He comes off a championship season with his team the Hawks to learn that he has been traded to the 2nd place Blizzards in order to 'save' star player Kipson who is nursing a broken heart and broken spirit. Of course, Dom is so perceptive and evolved, that he immediately sees what's wrong with his new team and how to go about fixing it. In barely a few weeks' time he has started making positive changes. He also befriends Briar, a single mother, who happens to be his new Coach's daughter.
Briar has a crappy ex and thanks to her mostly absentee father, a poor view of men in general and hockey players in particular, but that new guy Dom has something... Before long, Dom is giving her young son Harley, extra coaching in hockey and being a good friend, even willing to muck out the flamingo pond at the zoo where she works. Dom loves kids, and doesn't mind zoo poop smells, and doesn't take the bait when Briar's ex jealously flexes. Briar eventually succumbs to Dom's charms because when she mentions stretch marks and saggy boobs, he volunteers to hold them up for her. Of course, Briar is actually gorgeous, just suffering from a poor self-image thanks to her ex and her dad, but magical hockey star Dom, heals her of that as well, convincing her that he is genuinely attracted to her and won't ever hurt her.
It's not so much that there was anything wrong with this book, it's just that I wasn't wowed. Dom was so magically perfect in every way - like a hockey playing Mary Poppins - that there was very little dramatic tension.
Dom Lee is the quintessential romance novel 'perfect' man. He is not only good looking, and in fabulous physical condition, but possessed of a level of empathy, kindness and generosity of spirit only found in books. He comes off a championship season with his team the Hawks to learn that he has been traded to the 2nd place Blizzards in order to 'save' star player Kipson who is nursing a broken heart and broken spirit. Of course, Dom is so perceptive and evolved, that he immediately sees what's wrong with his new team and how to go about fixing it. In barely a few weeks' time he has started making positive changes. He also befriends Briar, a single mother, who happens to be his new Coach's daughter.
Briar has a crappy ex and thanks to her mostly absentee father, a poor view of men in general and hockey players in particular, but that new guy Dom has something... Before long, Dom is giving her young son Harley, extra coaching in hockey and being a good friend, even willing to muck out the flamingo pond at the zoo where she works. Dom loves kids, and doesn't mind zoo poop smells, and doesn't take the bait when Briar's ex jealously flexes. Briar eventually succumbs to Dom's charms because when she mentions stretch marks and saggy boobs, he volunteers to hold them up for her. Of course, Briar is actually gorgeous, just suffering from a poor self-image thanks to her ex and her dad, but magical hockey star Dom, heals her of that as well, convincing her that he is genuinely attracted to her and won't ever hurt her.
It's not so much that there was anything wrong with this book, it's just that I wasn't wowed. Dom was so magically perfect in every way - like a hockey playing Mary Poppins - that there was very little dramatic tension.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
📖📖📖📖
Series: Dirty Puckers (2)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
“Don’t let the life you had or the one you have keep you from discovering a completely new and unexpected one that might be everything you’ve ever dreamed of.”
This book was a spicy hallmark hug, zero angst but all the delicious feels. Dominic Lee gets traded to a struggling NHL team with one job: fix their star defense man, who is struggling with his divorce. But everything changes when he gets to the Blizzard and sees what a frat style, toxic locker room they have. Dominic takes on a whole new mission, to make this mess into a team who can count on each other. Briar Johns is a fierce, guarded single mom working as a zookeeper who happens to be the coach’s off-limits daughter. Between surviving a walking red flag, toxic ex and raising her son Harley, Briar has zero interest in dating. let alone dating a professional hockey player. But Dom isn't your average cocky MMC; he's patient, steadfast, and determined to earn her trust by showing up for both her and Harley, even if it costs him his career.
Dom is officially elevated to amazing book boyfriend status. The way he was so patient, calm and allowed Briar the space to truly decide what she wanted, respecting her boundaries was so hot. Plus watching him bond with Harley over ice time made my heart melt a bit. The zookeeper angle was a unique, refreshing FMC job and I loved that the conflict focused heavily on team growth, healing, and emotional maturity rather than conflict between the characters directly. My only tiny critique is that Dom is almost too perfect which shows how low our bars really are. The steady slow-burn, amazing chemistry and zero nonsense heroine made this such a comforting, swoony read that I would definitely recommend.
#PuckMarryKill #NetGalley #LaurenLandish #HockeyRomance #Bookstagram
Series: Dirty Puckers (2)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
“Don’t let the life you had or the one you have keep you from discovering a completely new and unexpected one that might be everything you’ve ever dreamed of.”
This book was a spicy hallmark hug, zero angst but all the delicious feels. Dominic Lee gets traded to a struggling NHL team with one job: fix their star defense man, who is struggling with his divorce. But everything changes when he gets to the Blizzard and sees what a frat style, toxic locker room they have. Dominic takes on a whole new mission, to make this mess into a team who can count on each other. Briar Johns is a fierce, guarded single mom working as a zookeeper who happens to be the coach’s off-limits daughter. Between surviving a walking red flag, toxic ex and raising her son Harley, Briar has zero interest in dating. let alone dating a professional hockey player. But Dom isn't your average cocky MMC; he's patient, steadfast, and determined to earn her trust by showing up for both her and Harley, even if it costs him his career.
Dom is officially elevated to amazing book boyfriend status. The way he was so patient, calm and allowed Briar the space to truly decide what she wanted, respecting her boundaries was so hot. Plus watching him bond with Harley over ice time made my heart melt a bit. The zookeeper angle was a unique, refreshing FMC job and I loved that the conflict focused heavily on team growth, healing, and emotional maturity rather than conflict between the characters directly. My only tiny critique is that Dom is almost too perfect which shows how low our bars really are. The steady slow-burn, amazing chemistry and zero nonsense heroine made this such a comforting, swoony read that I would definitely recommend.
#PuckMarryKill #NetGalley #LaurenLandish #HockeyRomance #Bookstagram
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoyed this book! Love Dominic and Briar so much and totally adore the dynamic between him and Briar’s son Harley.
When veteran defensemen Dominic Lee is traded from his championship team to another not as good team he is not happy about it. He is being asked to help “fix” one of the players.
What seems like it is going to be the worst experience ever takes a turn towards the best ever when he meets Briar. Honest with her from jump about the stupid game the players on his new team were playing when he approaches her definitely wins some points with her. She is anti-dating due to the number her ex husband Tyler did on her. He will make you want to throat punch him, several times, and is the reason the only guy she wants in her life is her son Harley.
Harley plays youth hockey and Dominic being the fixer he is offers to help him.
Doesn’t hurt that he also wants to spend more time with Briar. So they start a relationship based on friendship with all of them together including Harley. Love watching that bloom. They fall for each other and are so perfect together.
I love Briar, she is quirky and has the best job at the local zoo. She is so strong to put up with her ex for the sake of her son but his words have clearly done their damage. Luckily Dominic is such a good man and treats her how she should be treated in all the ways.
I love Dominic because of how he really sees her and wants to be there for her and Harley. Their chemistry is crazy hot and amazing.
Love how Dom handles Tyler finally, and also how he handles his coach who is also Briar’s father if you can call him that.
Briar ends up finally handling her dad as well which was spectacular.
Loved these characters and this story so much!
ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
When veteran defensemen Dominic Lee is traded from his championship team to another not as good team he is not happy about it. He is being asked to help “fix” one of the players.
What seems like it is going to be the worst experience ever takes a turn towards the best ever when he meets Briar. Honest with her from jump about the stupid game the players on his new team were playing when he approaches her definitely wins some points with her. She is anti-dating due to the number her ex husband Tyler did on her. He will make you want to throat punch him, several times, and is the reason the only guy she wants in her life is her son Harley.
Harley plays youth hockey and Dominic being the fixer he is offers to help him.
Doesn’t hurt that he also wants to spend more time with Briar. So they start a relationship based on friendship with all of them together including Harley. Love watching that bloom. They fall for each other and are so perfect together.
I love Briar, she is quirky and has the best job at the local zoo. She is so strong to put up with her ex for the sake of her son but his words have clearly done their damage. Luckily Dominic is such a good man and treats her how she should be treated in all the ways.
I love Dominic because of how he really sees her and wants to be there for her and Harley. Their chemistry is crazy hot and amazing.
Love how Dom handles Tyler finally, and also how he handles his coach who is also Briar’s father if you can call him that.
Briar ends up finally handling her dad as well which was spectacular.
Loved these characters and this story so much!
ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 9, 2026
Coming off a spectacular season and ultimately winning the cup, Ice Hawk defenseman Dominic Lee deserves some down time. What he gets is a meeting telling him that he has just been traded to the Blizzards. It's not exactly the words you want to hear, especially when you were a huge part of the team, maybe even irreplaceable. Never dreaming he would be leaving the only team he's ever played for in the NHL, he reluctantly accepts his fate.
At a Blizzard event is where he meets Briar and she is stunning. She's also the coach's daughter and she has a son. Those are not deal breakers for Dom, but it is an unspoken rule that the coach's daughter is off limits. After a painful divorce, the only guy Briar needs in her life is her son, Harley. Briar is fully focused on him and taking care of him is her #1 priority. She's not looking for a new man.
Hockey, for Dom, has been his #1 priority, along with his family. He feels the spark between Briar and himself and would like to see where it goes. Briar is hesitant and Dom isn't pushing, but he sure is persistent by being friendly and helpful.
At first he wasn't happy about being traded, but there may be a silver lining with being a Blizzard, after all he's met Briar and Harley. But when Dom is issued an ultimatum that involves his hockey career, what will that mean for Briar?
I LOVED, LOVED THIS BOOK!!! Dom was caring and supportive of Briar. He always had her back. Briar trusted her instincts when it came to Dom, even when she believed her instincts had let her down before. She was a force to be reckoned with when it came to protecting her son and was able to let her guard down with Dom. This book was fast paced and flowed effortlessly. I lost track of time reading, so good!!!! I loved their story!
I highly recommend this amazing read!!!
I received an advanced reader copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
At a Blizzard event is where he meets Briar and she is stunning. She's also the coach's daughter and she has a son. Those are not deal breakers for Dom, but it is an unspoken rule that the coach's daughter is off limits. After a painful divorce, the only guy Briar needs in her life is her son, Harley. Briar is fully focused on him and taking care of him is her #1 priority. She's not looking for a new man.
Hockey, for Dom, has been his #1 priority, along with his family. He feels the spark between Briar and himself and would like to see where it goes. Briar is hesitant and Dom isn't pushing, but he sure is persistent by being friendly and helpful.
At first he wasn't happy about being traded, but there may be a silver lining with being a Blizzard, after all he's met Briar and Harley. But when Dom is issued an ultimatum that involves his hockey career, what will that mean for Briar?
I LOVED, LOVED THIS BOOK!!! Dom was caring and supportive of Briar. He always had her back. Briar trusted her instincts when it came to Dom, even when she believed her instincts had let her down before. She was a force to be reckoned with when it came to protecting her son and was able to let her guard down with Dom. This book was fast paced and flowed effortlessly. I lost track of time reading, so good!!!! I loved their story!
I highly recommend this amazing read!!!
I received an advanced reader copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Puck, Mary, Kill was such a fun, fast read, and it ended up being sweeter than I expected. I came for the gruff hockey player, but I absolutely stayed for Briar’s “Albie,” which might be my new favorite romance nickname. It was cute, personal, and somehow not cringey, which honestly is a rare thing in the romance book space.
One of my favorite things about this book was that hockey took a backseat to the actual love story. Don’t get me wrong, I love a hockey romance, but Dom’s best role was not defenseman. It was unofficial team therapist, emotional support albatross, Harley’s second biggest fan, and full-time Briar worshipper. The man falls first, falls hard, and then quietly makes himself impossible to live without through patience, follow through, dishes, and steady devotion.
I loved Briar. She felt real in a way I really appreciated. Guarded, but not cold. Strong, but still vulnerable. And completely unapologetically herself. Her and Dom just fit together so easily, and I caught myself smiling at my Kindle more than once. The zookeeper/hockey player setup was unique and cute, Harley added so much heart, and the pacing stayed consistent enough that I flew through it in one day.
I also really liked the self-awareness both Dom and Briar had. Their internal reflections gave the story more depth without making it feel too heavy, and I loved that their personal growth mattered just as much as the romance.
Overall, this was a unique, charming, feel-good hockey romance with a soft center, a swoony MMC, and a nickname that I actually loved!!
I received an advanced reader copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Puck, Mary, Kill was such a fun, fast read, and it ended up being sweeter than I expected. I came for the gruff hockey player, but I absolutely stayed for Briar’s “Albie,” which might be my new favorite romance nickname. It was cute, personal, and somehow not cringey, which honestly is a rare thing in the romance book space.
One of my favorite things about this book was that hockey took a backseat to the actual love story. Don’t get me wrong, I love a hockey romance, but Dom’s best role was not defenseman. It was unofficial team therapist, emotional support albatross, Harley’s second biggest fan, and full-time Briar worshipper. The man falls first, falls hard, and then quietly makes himself impossible to live without through patience, follow through, dishes, and steady devotion.
I loved Briar. She felt real in a way I really appreciated. Guarded, but not cold. Strong, but still vulnerable. And completely unapologetically herself. Her and Dom just fit together so easily, and I caught myself smiling at my Kindle more than once. The zookeeper/hockey player setup was unique and cute, Harley added so much heart, and the pacing stayed consistent enough that I flew through it in one day.
I also really liked the self-awareness both Dom and Briar had. Their internal reflections gave the story more depth without making it feel too heavy, and I loved that their personal growth mattered just as much as the romance.
Overall, this was a unique, charming, feel-good hockey romance with a soft center, a swoony MMC, and a nickname that I actually loved!!
I received an advanced reader copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Dominic is traded mid-season to a team that’s known for being full of playboys. None of the players are interested in settling down, and even the coach is on wife number three. When Dominic joins the team and heads out with the guys, he quickly realizes their lifestyle isn’t really for him. Looking for an escape from their games at the bar, he strikes up a conversation with a beautiful woman. The banter is instant, witty, and effortless… until he finds out she’s the coach’s daughter, Briar.
I absolutely adored Briar. She’s a single mom and a zookeeper, and she was such a fun, spunky, and bubbly heroine. As much as she enjoyed meeting Dominic, she was realistic enough to think it wasn’t going anywhere. But when Dominic offers to give her son hockey lessons, she decides to take him up on it.
What I loved most was that this wasn’t just a story about Dominic falling for Briar or Briar falling for Dominic. It was about all three of them…. Dominic, Briar, and her son… slowly falling in love together and becoming a family. Watching Dominic naturally step into their lives without ever trying to replace anyone was incredibly heartwarming.
This was such a sweet blend of forbidden romance, hockey romance, and single mom romance, with wonderful chemistry, great banter, and a relationship that developed at just the right pace.
Ryan West and Shiloh James absolutely nailed the narration. They brought so much personality and emotion to Dominic and Briar, making an already charming story even more enjoyable to listen to.
Tropes:
Forbidden
Hockey Player/Zoo Keeper
Single Mom
Coach’s Daughter
I absolutely adored Briar. She’s a single mom and a zookeeper, and she was such a fun, spunky, and bubbly heroine. As much as she enjoyed meeting Dominic, she was realistic enough to think it wasn’t going anywhere. But when Dominic offers to give her son hockey lessons, she decides to take him up on it.
What I loved most was that this wasn’t just a story about Dominic falling for Briar or Briar falling for Dominic. It was about all three of them…. Dominic, Briar, and her son… slowly falling in love together and becoming a family. Watching Dominic naturally step into their lives without ever trying to replace anyone was incredibly heartwarming.
This was such a sweet blend of forbidden romance, hockey romance, and single mom romance, with wonderful chemistry, great banter, and a relationship that developed at just the right pace.
Ryan West and Shiloh James absolutely nailed the narration. They brought so much personality and emotion to Dominic and Briar, making an already charming story even more enjoyable to listen to.
Tropes:
Forbidden
Hockey Player/Zoo Keeper
Single Mom
Coach’s Daughter
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
2.5 ⭐
Thank you NetGalley for ARC!
Dominic Lee is not like the other guys.
After winning the Stanley Cup with his best friend and team, Dom Lee gets traded to a team that lacks brotherhood and interconnectedness. With that, he is tasked with saving a player from ruin and then takes it upon himself to rehabilitate the rest of the team. He goes from leaving everything and everyone he knows to overhauling a team. In doing so, Dom presents himself as an infallible savior. He did not make a single mistake in the entire book. Not when he is falling for his coach's daughter, not when dealing with Briar's shitty ex—never. While I do like an MMC to have emotional maturity, I want him to feel real. And nobody is as unrealistically perfect as Dominic.
Briar Johns has had an overall bad experience with men, starting with her father and also her ex-husband, Tyler. But when she meets Dominic at a bar for a team event, they begin to get to know one another. He is instantly different from the other players on her father's team. Before Dom, all Briar focuses on is her job as a zookeeper and her nine-year-old, Harley. Those two aspects of the book were favorites for me. It was interesting to hear her speak passionately about animals. And Harley was very cute, especially his growing relationship with Dom.
In the end, there was nothing really pulling me from page to page. Some added drama and tension would have gone a long way to elevate this book from what it was: a simple, light read. So if that is your cup of tea? Enjoy.
Thank you NetGalley for ARC!
Dominic Lee is not like the other guys.
After winning the Stanley Cup with his best friend and team, Dom Lee gets traded to a team that lacks brotherhood and interconnectedness. With that, he is tasked with saving a player from ruin and then takes it upon himself to rehabilitate the rest of the team. He goes from leaving everything and everyone he knows to overhauling a team. In doing so, Dom presents himself as an infallible savior. He did not make a single mistake in the entire book. Not when he is falling for his coach's daughter, not when dealing with Briar's shitty ex—never. While I do like an MMC to have emotional maturity, I want him to feel real. And nobody is as unrealistically perfect as Dominic.
Briar Johns has had an overall bad experience with men, starting with her father and also her ex-husband, Tyler. But when she meets Dominic at a bar for a team event, they begin to get to know one another. He is instantly different from the other players on her father's team. Before Dom, all Briar focuses on is her job as a zookeeper and her nine-year-old, Harley. Those two aspects of the book were favorites for me. It was interesting to hear her speak passionately about animals. And Harley was very cute, especially his growing relationship with Dom.
In the end, there was nothing really pulling me from page to page. Some added drama and tension would have gone a long way to elevate this book from what it was: a simple, light read. So if that is your cup of tea? Enjoy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Dominic Lee, a member of the Stanley Cup-winning Hawks, was unexpectedly traded to the Blizzards to assist in the rehabilitation of their captain. Despite his love for his team and the family he considered them to be, Dom was disheartened by the news. Upon arriving at his new team’s welcome party, he was met with a chaotic and frat-house-like atmosphere, which only fueled his desire to be traded back.
During a conversation with his new goalie, the goalie posed a peculiar question: “Who in this bar would you Puck, Marry, or Kill?” (He used a different term for the first word). One of the women he mentioned was Briar Johns, the daughter of his new coach. Intrigued, Dom struck up a conversation with her, and they formed an instant connection. However, he hesitated to pursue a romantic relationship with the coach’s daughter, fearing it might jeopardize his position.
Despite his reservations, Dom offered to coach Briar’s son in hockey, and their relationship began to blossom. Briar, burdened by abandonment issues stemming from her father and a jerk of an ex-husband, had built high walls around her heart when it came to men. As Dom’s influence grew, Briar gradually opened up to him, and their bond deepened.
This heartwarming hockey romance is filled with steamy moments and captivating characters. Both the main protagonists are likable, and the side characters on the team undergo significant growth with Dom’s guidance. I eagerly anticipate reading the next installment in this delightful series.
During a conversation with his new goalie, the goalie posed a peculiar question: “Who in this bar would you Puck, Marry, or Kill?” (He used a different term for the first word). One of the women he mentioned was Briar Johns, the daughter of his new coach. Intrigued, Dom struck up a conversation with her, and they formed an instant connection. However, he hesitated to pursue a romantic relationship with the coach’s daughter, fearing it might jeopardize his position.
Despite his reservations, Dom offered to coach Briar’s son in hockey, and their relationship began to blossom. Briar, burdened by abandonment issues stemming from her father and a jerk of an ex-husband, had built high walls around her heart when it came to men. As Dom’s influence grew, Briar gradually opened up to him, and their bond deepened.
This heartwarming hockey romance is filled with steamy moments and captivating characters. Both the main protagonists are likable, and the side characters on the team undergo significant growth with Dom’s guidance. I eagerly anticipate reading the next installment in this delightful series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Rating
4 💎
2 🌶️
Quick Summary
I really liked this book from start to finish. Watching Dom and Briar's friendship grow into something deeper was a joy, and Dom was such a standout character. His support of Harley, especially as he helped him develop his hockey skills. While his insight into people and ability to understand their motivations was brilliantly written. Brair's protective nature toward her son made her growth feel authentic and seeing her gradually let Dom in was beautiful. I also loved the way Dom built meaningful relationships with everyone around him, creating a true sense of family and community. Ultimately, this was a wonderfully heartfelt story that captured the simple magic of falling in love and embracing it when it happens.
While Reading Thoughts
📘Loving the friends they are becoming
📘Dom is swoony and the way he works with Harley on his hockey skills.
📘Dom is just so insightful to people’s motivations and the way he can read people is written brilliantly.
📘Briar is guarded to protect her son but the way she slowly opens up to Dom is beautiful.
📘The relationships that Dom fosters with everyone is brilliant and how he has created this family.
📘Loved this book and the simplicity of just falling in love and letting it happen
Words that linger
It’s all right, Breanna, I don’t mind if you look at me
Tropes
🏒Hockey player MMC
🏒Coach's daughter
🏒Forbidden love
🏒Single mum
🏒Found family
Narrators
Ryan West & Shiloh James
These narrators have beautiful tone that draws you completely into the story. Their delivery adds depth, passion, and charm to every chapter.
Nickname
Alby
4 💎
2 🌶️
Quick Summary
I really liked this book from start to finish. Watching Dom and Briar's friendship grow into something deeper was a joy, and Dom was such a standout character. His support of Harley, especially as he helped him develop his hockey skills. While his insight into people and ability to understand their motivations was brilliantly written. Brair's protective nature toward her son made her growth feel authentic and seeing her gradually let Dom in was beautiful. I also loved the way Dom built meaningful relationships with everyone around him, creating a true sense of family and community. Ultimately, this was a wonderfully heartfelt story that captured the simple magic of falling in love and embracing it when it happens.
While Reading Thoughts
📘Loving the friends they are becoming
📘Dom is swoony and the way he works with Harley on his hockey skills.
📘Dom is just so insightful to people’s motivations and the way he can read people is written brilliantly.
📘Briar is guarded to protect her son but the way she slowly opens up to Dom is beautiful.
📘The relationships that Dom fosters with everyone is brilliant and how he has created this family.
📘Loved this book and the simplicity of just falling in love and letting it happen
Words that linger
It’s all right, Breanna, I don’t mind if you look at me
Tropes
🏒Hockey player MMC
🏒Coach's daughter
🏒Forbidden love
🏒Single mum
🏒Found family
Narrators
Ryan West & Shiloh James
These narrators have beautiful tone that draws you completely into the story. Their delivery adds depth, passion, and charm to every chapter.
Nickname
Alby
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Lauren Landish is my sister from another mister. Her humor, spice level, plot line, and memorable characters are everything I want in a romcom. Every joke lands for me, and I giggle as I live in the moment with her characters.
Puck, Marry, Kill is a novel about a single mom and a hockey player who gets traded to a new town where he doesn't know anyone. He did a lot of hockey camps while at his old team, so he offers up to coach Harley, Briar's son (and the coach's grandson). Yup, she's the coach's daughter. What could go wrong? Lol
Dominic is a good guy. Like a REALLY good guy. He's past his "playing the field" days and just wants a genuine connection with someone just like his parents have. And what his sister, Penny found with his best friend. He has fun with Briar and Harley, and they really like him too. But when coach finds out that his defenseman is dating his daughter...we all know that isn't going to go over well.
I loved this book. Giggled all the way. I loved that Penny and Honey made a cameo, (the Diamond Puck Up is still my favorite). Penny is still accident prone. And the same flawless writing returns for this book. Lauren Landish has perfected the art of crafting hilarious and lovable characters alongside a really great supporting cast (I see you Kipson). If she writes it, I will read it. Every. Damn. Time.
Thank you to Lauren Landish, Montlake Publishing, and NetGalley for the ARC.
Puck, Marry, Kill is a novel about a single mom and a hockey player who gets traded to a new town where he doesn't know anyone. He did a lot of hockey camps while at his old team, so he offers up to coach Harley, Briar's son (and the coach's grandson). Yup, she's the coach's daughter. What could go wrong? Lol
Dominic is a good guy. Like a REALLY good guy. He's past his "playing the field" days and just wants a genuine connection with someone just like his parents have. And what his sister, Penny found with his best friend. He has fun with Briar and Harley, and they really like him too. But when coach finds out that his defenseman is dating his daughter...we all know that isn't going to go over well.
I loved this book. Giggled all the way. I loved that Penny and Honey made a cameo, (the Diamond Puck Up is still my favorite). Penny is still accident prone. And the same flawless writing returns for this book. Lauren Landish has perfected the art of crafting hilarious and lovable characters alongside a really great supporting cast (I see you Kipson). If she writes it, I will read it. Every. Damn. Time.
Thank you to Lauren Landish, Montlake Publishing, and NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This isn’t the first Lauren Landish book that I’ve read, but it has been awhile since I’ve read one of her books, and I forgot how much I enjoy her writing.
This isn’t the hockey romance that I usually read. For me it’s usually romcom, angsty, or even dark romance, but that’s not really what we get from this book. Yes there are moments that had me giggling or even tearing up but for me this book was steady, a lot like Dom.
Dom isn’t the typical hockey MMC that you read. He’s not really cocky (yes he has his moments, but those are rare), he’s not loud or sometimes obnoxious. He’s steady, supportive, protective, knows when to push someone to help them see things that can better themselves but also knows when to back off and let things cool down. He’s like the literal perfect book boyfriend.
Briar has been through so much in her life and I really enjoyed her journey in this book. She had a lot of damage and baggage to unpack to find herself again. I loved how Dom helped her through this and was just there and supportive every step of the way. He was so patient waiting for her to be ready for any type of relationship and it made me fall even harder for him.
I really enjoyed this book and I’m looking forward to more in the series. I am going to have to go back and read the first book in the series because Penny was cracking me up and I really need her story.
*Thank you NetGalley for this review copy.
This isn’t the hockey romance that I usually read. For me it’s usually romcom, angsty, or even dark romance, but that’s not really what we get from this book. Yes there are moments that had me giggling or even tearing up but for me this book was steady, a lot like Dom.
Dom isn’t the typical hockey MMC that you read. He’s not really cocky (yes he has his moments, but those are rare), he’s not loud or sometimes obnoxious. He’s steady, supportive, protective, knows when to push someone to help them see things that can better themselves but also knows when to back off and let things cool down. He’s like the literal perfect book boyfriend.
Briar has been through so much in her life and I really enjoyed her journey in this book. She had a lot of damage and baggage to unpack to find herself again. I loved how Dom helped her through this and was just there and supportive every step of the way. He was so patient waiting for her to be ready for any type of relationship and it made me fall even harder for him.
I really enjoyed this book and I’m looking forward to more in the series. I am going to have to go back and read the first book in the series because Penny was cracking me up and I really need her story.
*Thank you NetGalley for this review copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Personally, Dominic was my least favorite character in the previous book because of his playboy attitude. However, judging him based on this book alone, I actually liked him. He knows what he wants, and he's mature and wise when it comes to both love and life. People look up to him not because he's famous, but because he genuinely wants to help others become better.
Dom was brought to the team because the coach believed he had the emotional maturity to help one of the players recover from heartbreak. That's why the coach's treatment of him after he started dating Briar frustrated me so much. He trusted Dom enough to help someone else heal, yet judged and mistreated him over his own relationship. Although the coach eventually changed his attitude, it wasn't enough to erase his earlier behavior.
Briar is strong, compassionate, and incredible—not just as a mother, but as a person. She could have easily cut her father out of her life, but instead she chose to keep trying to build a relationship with him. She also raised a kind and respectful young man who treats others well.
Overall, it's a sweet and enjoyable romance with great chemistry between the main characters. It can be a little overdramatic at times, but that's very much the author's style.
I received an Advance Review Copy (ARC) of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Dom was brought to the team because the coach believed he had the emotional maturity to help one of the players recover from heartbreak. That's why the coach's treatment of him after he started dating Briar frustrated me so much. He trusted Dom enough to help someone else heal, yet judged and mistreated him over his own relationship. Although the coach eventually changed his attitude, it wasn't enough to erase his earlier behavior.
Briar is strong, compassionate, and incredible—not just as a mother, but as a person. She could have easily cut her father out of her life, but instead she chose to keep trying to build a relationship with him. She also raised a kind and respectful young man who treats others well.
Overall, it's a sweet and enjoyable romance with great chemistry between the main characters. It can be a little overdramatic at times, but that's very much the author's style.
I received an Advance Review Copy (ARC) of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
*Sports
*Off limits
*Single mother
*OM drama
*Golden retriever MMC
*Emotional
*Slow burn
Dom is traded to another team mid-season in order to save its captain and therefore the season while trying not to fall for Briar, coach's daughter and a single mother to Harley, who has sworn off men due to her toxic ex-husband and her complicated relationship to her father. But Dom as a fixer chips a little by little Briar's walls with patience and by treating her as she should.
Briar is a strong but hurt character living and breathing for her son. While she's being hurt by her ex-husband and her father she is distrustful to any man in her viscinity and especially hockey players with their reputation.
Dom on the other hand may be a hockey player but he's surrounded by healthy relationships and knows how to act and wants that for his future. And when his career is threatened he doesn't hesitate to make the right decision even if it costs him everything he fought for.
I loved how Briar's and Dom's relationship evolved. It started as a friendship and then transformed to a relationship. Dom was there for them, both Briar and her son. Sometimes just being there for someone is all they need to face hurtful persons and situations.
It was quite emotional in some points but in no matter heavy reading. There were some funny moments and I loved the tid bids about animals.
I received this arc and this is my honest opinion.
*Off limits
*Single mother
*OM drama
*Golden retriever MMC
*Emotional
*Slow burn
Dom is traded to another team mid-season in order to save its captain and therefore the season while trying not to fall for Briar, coach's daughter and a single mother to Harley, who has sworn off men due to her toxic ex-husband and her complicated relationship to her father. But Dom as a fixer chips a little by little Briar's walls with patience and by treating her as she should.
Briar is a strong but hurt character living and breathing for her son. While she's being hurt by her ex-husband and her father she is distrustful to any man in her viscinity and especially hockey players with their reputation.
Dom on the other hand may be a hockey player but he's surrounded by healthy relationships and knows how to act and wants that for his future. And when his career is threatened he doesn't hesitate to make the right decision even if it costs him everything he fought for.
I loved how Briar's and Dom's relationship evolved. It started as a friendship and then transformed to a relationship. Dom was there for them, both Briar and her son. Sometimes just being there for someone is all they need to face hurtful persons and situations.
It was quite emotional in some points but in no matter heavy reading. There were some funny moments and I loved the tid bids about animals.
I received this arc and this is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.25⭐️
I went into Puck, Marry, Kill expecting a fun sports romance, but I walked away with an entertaining, spicy, and deeply emotional story about second chances and learning to trust again.
The hockey elements are absolutely on point. The teammate camaraderie, fun locker room banter, and sports dynamic are fantastic. However, the true heart of this book lies in the incredible connection between Dominic and Briar. Both characters hide behind protective masks, but the way they truly see each other is beautiful. Dominic’s patience is unmatched; he handles Briar’s past hurts with so much care, gradually helping her heal. Their journey toward vulnerability is built on patience and down-to-earth authenticity. Watching them slowly lower their guards was incredibly moving.
Another absolute highlight was Briar's son, Harley. He is a wonderful, heartwarming character, and his pure enthusiasm for hockey was delightful to read. The bond that develops between Harley and Dominic added a whole new layer of sweetness to the plot. Plus, Briar’s quirky animal trivia was such a fun, unique touch that made her character stand out!
This book offers the perfect blend of spice, entertainment value, and emotional depth. Highly recommend if you want a sports romance with real substance!
My thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy of Puck, Marry, Kill. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
I went into Puck, Marry, Kill expecting a fun sports romance, but I walked away with an entertaining, spicy, and deeply emotional story about second chances and learning to trust again.
The hockey elements are absolutely on point. The teammate camaraderie, fun locker room banter, and sports dynamic are fantastic. However, the true heart of this book lies in the incredible connection between Dominic and Briar. Both characters hide behind protective masks, but the way they truly see each other is beautiful. Dominic’s patience is unmatched; he handles Briar’s past hurts with so much care, gradually helping her heal. Their journey toward vulnerability is built on patience and down-to-earth authenticity. Watching them slowly lower their guards was incredibly moving.
Another absolute highlight was Briar's son, Harley. He is a wonderful, heartwarming character, and his pure enthusiasm for hockey was delightful to read. The bond that develops between Harley and Dominic added a whole new layer of sweetness to the plot. Plus, Briar’s quirky animal trivia was such a fun, unique touch that made her character stand out!
This book offers the perfect blend of spice, entertainment value, and emotional depth. Highly recommend if you want a sports romance with real substance!
My thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy of Puck, Marry, Kill. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
August 8, 2026
I really had fun with this one!
This was my first book of Lauren’s and I truly got right into with Dominic and Briar. I loved the whole vibe of the book from the beginning. Like come on… second chance, new to the team, friends with the coaches daughter, befriended her son.. check, check, check, and check!!
Dom just got traded to a new team, and let it be known he definitely didn’t want to get traded to another team. Now he needs to keep his head down, teach the guys what it means to win and get the heck out of dodge and back to him home. Oh, and definitely stay away from the coaches daughter and definitely don’t befriend her son. Guess too late for both of those. But nothing’s wrong with having some company in his new place. But, things tend to get messy when feeling start to get involved and other people start to get involved. Dom should’ve just kept his head down, but maybe Briar is worth the risk.
Briar has been burned in the past when it comes to relationships, exhibit A, her son‘s father. She thinks if she says away from all men then she can’t be hurt. So, who the heck invited Dom to make these feelings come to the surface. Now it would be easy to not make the feelings known, but the way he acts with her son catches her off guard. Because maybe there is more to Dom than meets the eye. Too bad he’s on the next flight outta here as soon as his old team will take him back, and where does that leave Briar when he leaves?
This was my first book of Lauren’s and I truly got right into with Dominic and Briar. I loved the whole vibe of the book from the beginning. Like come on… second chance, new to the team, friends with the coaches daughter, befriended her son.. check, check, check, and check!!
Dom just got traded to a new team, and let it be known he definitely didn’t want to get traded to another team. Now he needs to keep his head down, teach the guys what it means to win and get the heck out of dodge and back to him home. Oh, and definitely stay away from the coaches daughter and definitely don’t befriend her son. Guess too late for both of those. But nothing’s wrong with having some company in his new place. But, things tend to get messy when feeling start to get involved and other people start to get involved. Dom should’ve just kept his head down, but maybe Briar is worth the risk.
Briar has been burned in the past when it comes to relationships, exhibit A, her son‘s father. She thinks if she says away from all men then she can’t be hurt. So, who the heck invited Dom to make these feelings come to the surface. Now it would be easy to not make the feelings known, but the way he acts with her son catches her off guard. Because maybe there is more to Dom than meets the eye. Too bad he’s on the next flight outta here as soon as his old team will take him back, and where does that leave Briar when he leaves?
August 11, 2026
Puck, Marry, Kill by Lauren Landish (part of the Dirty Puckers series) delivers a swoon-worthy, high-heat sports romance that blends forbidden workplace dynamics with a sweet single-mom trope.
Dominic Lee, a talented NHL defenseman traded mid-season with the mission to turn around a struggling locker room culture. Briar Johns, a guarded zookeeper and single mom who has swore off athletes and relationships after surviving a toxic marriage.Briar is the daughter of Dominic’s new, old-school head coach—making her strictly off-limits if Dominic wants to keep his career intact.
The forbidden nature of their romance ramps up the sexual tension early on, especially given the high-stakes threat to Dominic's career.Dominic defies the "cocky athlete" stereotype when it comes to Briar's young son, Harley. He genuinely steps up—showing up to youth practices, helping around the house, and proving his reliability before ever pushing for physical intimacy.Briar’s character arc centers on overcoming past emotional baggage and learning to trust again. Dominic acts as a steady, patient presence while her walls slowly come down.
Landish balances playful banter and steamy encounters with solid emotional depth. Dominic stands out as a protective yet supportive hero, making this a satisfying pick for fans of low-angst, high-heat hockey romance with found-family elements.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Dominic Lee, a talented NHL defenseman traded mid-season with the mission to turn around a struggling locker room culture. Briar Johns, a guarded zookeeper and single mom who has swore off athletes and relationships after surviving a toxic marriage.Briar is the daughter of Dominic’s new, old-school head coach—making her strictly off-limits if Dominic wants to keep his career intact.
The forbidden nature of their romance ramps up the sexual tension early on, especially given the high-stakes threat to Dominic's career.Dominic defies the "cocky athlete" stereotype when it comes to Briar's young son, Harley. He genuinely steps up—showing up to youth practices, helping around the house, and proving his reliability before ever pushing for physical intimacy.Briar’s character arc centers on overcoming past emotional baggage and learning to trust again. Dominic acts as a steady, patient presence while her walls slowly come down.
Landish balances playful banter and steamy encounters with solid emotional depth. Dominic stands out as a protective yet supportive hero, making this a satisfying pick for fans of low-angst, high-heat hockey romance with found-family elements.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
ARC review
4⭐|3🌶️|8%🌶️frequency
I think leaving the team you love to play for is hard. I felt the pain Dominic felt.
Oh, Dom is no new character. He's Penny's big brother from book 1 "The Diamond Puck-Up". I love that he got his own HEA 😍
I didn't expect him to be like that. I mean, sure, he definitely isn't a bad guy, except if you "you know" with his sister, then he's "not nice" anymore 🙈 But that's the story of the other book 😉 Just one more thing, you will see them in this book again, even though Dom is now playing for another team 😁
I had fun reading this one. Even with all the problematic things in the story. Dads aren't always good dads. You know the saying that everyone can father a child, but not everyone can become a dad. Yeah... That's huge in this book.
Briar is a wonderful mom. And Harley is such a perfect kid 🩷
As I said, I didn't expect Dom to be like that. To fall head over heels for a girl this fast. But he did. Fast and hard 😍 For a girl who hates hockey players, at least as a potential partner 😎
There are not just people in this book. Because Briar is a zookeeper, there are a few animals too. Especially her favorite 🐒 So cute 🩷
Thanks to the author, Montlake, and NetGalley for trusting me with an ARC 🩷
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
4⭐|3🌶️|8%🌶️frequency
I think leaving the team you love to play for is hard. I felt the pain Dominic felt.
Oh, Dom is no new character. He's Penny's big brother from book 1 "The Diamond Puck-Up". I love that he got his own HEA 😍
I didn't expect him to be like that. I mean, sure, he definitely isn't a bad guy, except if you "you know" with his sister, then he's "not nice" anymore 🙈 But that's the story of the other book 😉 Just one more thing, you will see them in this book again, even though Dom is now playing for another team 😁
I had fun reading this one. Even with all the problematic things in the story. Dads aren't always good dads. You know the saying that everyone can father a child, but not everyone can become a dad. Yeah... That's huge in this book.
Briar is a wonderful mom. And Harley is such a perfect kid 🩷
As I said, I didn't expect Dom to be like that. To fall head over heels for a girl this fast. But he did. Fast and hard 😍 For a girl who hates hockey players, at least as a potential partner 😎
There are not just people in this book. Because Briar is a zookeeper, there are a few animals too. Especially her favorite 🐒 So cute 🩷
Thanks to the author, Montlake, and NetGalley for trusting me with an ARC 🩷
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
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