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Devlin Mafia #2
Pucking With The Enemy
PUCKING WITH THE ENEMY Devlin Mafia — Book Two
The enemy you love is always the most dangerous one.
Blurb and cover coming soon...release date is a place holder and can be bought forward.
The enemy you love is always the most dangerous one.
Blurb and cover coming soon...release date is a place holder and can be bought forward.
281 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 12, 2026
About the author
Samantha Barrett
26 books57 followersThis page contains works by multiple authors with the same name.
See also: Romance author Samantha Barrett
See also: Romance author Samantha Barrett
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
June 14, 2026
This book said “you like enemies to lovers?” and then took that concept, set it on fire, and threw it onto an ice rink surrounded by mafia men with unresolved trauma.
The hatred between Xaden and Toren? Oh it’s not just tension… it’s a full-blown emotional war crime. These two cannot stand each other, cannot trust each other, and yet??? Cannot. Let. Go. It’s giving toxic magnetism. It’s giving “I’d ruin your life but also die if you looked at someone else.” Absolutely unwell behaviour.
And listen… there were moments in this book that HIT. OUT. OF. NOWHERE. One scene? I actually teared up because WHAT DO YOU MEAN THAT HAPPENED?? That person did NOT deserve that and I will be filing an emotional complaint.
Toren, my girl, is carrying the stress of Xaden AND her brother like she’s been personally hired by the universe to suffer. The amount of pressure she’s under??? In real life we’d be recommending therapy, a long nap, and possibly a new identity. But no, she just keeps pushing forward like an absolute soldier and I’m both impressed and concerned.
Now let’s talk about the hate sex… because WOW. Xaden is not okay. Like at all. That man is one bad decision away from being legally classified as unhinged and honestly? It shows. Every interaction is just dripping in chaos, control issues, and “I need help but instead I chose violence.”
The ending??? Twisty. Messy. RUDE. I closed the book and just sat there like… excuse me??? That’s where you’re leaving me??? I need book three immediately or I will start pacing like a Victorian woman with a secret.
I do wish we got more on the Denver Kings because the crumbs we were given?? Delicious. Suspicious. Not nearly enough. I need the full meal. Their role in taking down Xaden and Toren’s families feels HUGE but the scenes were so quick I was left feral for more.
That said, I LOVED them teaming up with Toren. The potential??? Immaculate. The chaos??? Incoming. Book three is about to go OFF and I’m ready.
Also… tiny note… Xaden showing the smallest flicker of humanity?? Blink and you’ll miss it, but it’s there. Somewhere. Buried under rage, trauma, and terrible coping mechanisms.
Overall? Solid follow-up to Puck Around and Find Out. If you like your romance dark, messy, morally questionable, and sprinkled with hockey sticks and mafia threats… this is for you.
Enemies to lovers but make it emotionally unstable.
The hatred between Xaden and Toren? Oh it’s not just tension… it’s a full-blown emotional war crime. These two cannot stand each other, cannot trust each other, and yet??? Cannot. Let. Go. It’s giving toxic magnetism. It’s giving “I’d ruin your life but also die if you looked at someone else.” Absolutely unwell behaviour.
And listen… there were moments in this book that HIT. OUT. OF. NOWHERE. One scene? I actually teared up because WHAT DO YOU MEAN THAT HAPPENED?? That person did NOT deserve that and I will be filing an emotional complaint.
Toren, my girl, is carrying the stress of Xaden AND her brother like she’s been personally hired by the universe to suffer. The amount of pressure she’s under??? In real life we’d be recommending therapy, a long nap, and possibly a new identity. But no, she just keeps pushing forward like an absolute soldier and I’m both impressed and concerned.
Now let’s talk about the hate sex… because WOW. Xaden is not okay. Like at all. That man is one bad decision away from being legally classified as unhinged and honestly? It shows. Every interaction is just dripping in chaos, control issues, and “I need help but instead I chose violence.”
The ending??? Twisty. Messy. RUDE. I closed the book and just sat there like… excuse me??? That’s where you’re leaving me??? I need book three immediately or I will start pacing like a Victorian woman with a secret.
I do wish we got more on the Denver Kings because the crumbs we were given?? Delicious. Suspicious. Not nearly enough. I need the full meal. Their role in taking down Xaden and Toren’s families feels HUGE but the scenes were so quick I was left feral for more.
That said, I LOVED them teaming up with Toren. The potential??? Immaculate. The chaos??? Incoming. Book three is about to go OFF and I’m ready.
Also… tiny note… Xaden showing the smallest flicker of humanity?? Blink and you’ll miss it, but it’s there. Somewhere. Buried under rage, trauma, and terrible coping mechanisms.
Overall? Solid follow-up to Puck Around and Find Out. If you like your romance dark, messy, morally questionable, and sprinkled with hockey sticks and mafia threats… this is for you.
Enemies to lovers but make it emotionally unstable.
June 18, 2026
I’m giving this 3.5 stars. I loved the first book so much. But I was really hoping for a different outcome in book 2. I was hoping it was more of an enemies to lovers situation but it’s just enemies to enemies that don’t make sense. Xaden and Toren continue to threaten to kill each other and they both have opportunity but don’t. They say how much they hate each other but then talk about this pull to the other. I thought Toren would be stronger and it seemed that way at first but by the end she was still doing whatever Xaden said to do. The random hockey stuff is throwing me off also because this reads much more like a mafia romance. And the Denver Kings don’t make much sense in all of this either. I will probably read book 3 to see how this ends but I was seriously hoping for a Xaden/Toren HEA and I don’t see that as realistic anymore.
June 14, 2026
The start to this awesome very DARK Mafia book is a recap of book 1. You MUST read book 1 to continue Torin and Xaden's complicated story. Also check the TW as there are many that may impact on you. I read this book in one sitting, as I could not put it down and needed to know what happens next!
The old adage is there is a fine line between love and hate and what Torin and Xaden have is definitely the definition of that.
She hates that he has this hold over her. Her body betrays her every time he is near. He feels the pull towards her that no other woman can do. He hates that the monster in him loves her.
He plans to hurt her. He plans to kill her. But not if she kills him first!
This fast paced complicated story has me twisted sideways LOL.
Samantha Barrett certainly likes to have her readers on edge and most of these curveballs I did not see coming.
Xaden knows more of what is happening around him than Torin credits him for and when he shows that he has no remorse in killing her friend, her need for revenge and vengeance ticks up a notch.
I cried and wanted to f3ck up Xaden myself as he certainly knew how to takeover the reigns of his fathers mafia family with ease.
What he does hate is the fact that he still feels the pull towards HER! He knows what he needs to do and even though she has accepted her fate that she will die at the hands of Xaden, she still tries to plot and take down her father and brother and Xaden all at the same time.
Her new found family, The Denver Kings, Halo, Carnage, Omen, Pope and Vatican are there to watch her back and help her win the war that is about to erupt.
Are they enough tho?. Carn and Torin get close. Closer than all the rest, but they all agree she is not alone in this war.
So I read, I absorbed what was going on, I accepted Xaden was definitely a sick physco f3ck, and I accepted that Torin was in love with him. Even if she did not say it out loud. Does the twisted feelings Xaden have for Torin reflect the same as hers....hmmmm that is the question! And when the secret she is carrying around with her is revealed, Xander loses the plot!
The ending to this story came way too soon....Sorry Samantha.....and I need to know what happens next!! Like pronto!! Loved the soft cliff hanger and will wait patiently for Book 3
This is the 2nd instalment in The Devlin Mafia series and is definitely worthy of 5*.
“Xaden Devlin nearly killed me. Toren Kellar brought me back. That's the whole review.” extract from book 2 and sums it up nicely!
The old adage is there is a fine line between love and hate and what Torin and Xaden have is definitely the definition of that.
She hates that he has this hold over her. Her body betrays her every time he is near. He feels the pull towards her that no other woman can do. He hates that the monster in him loves her.
He plans to hurt her. He plans to kill her. But not if she kills him first!
This fast paced complicated story has me twisted sideways LOL.
Samantha Barrett certainly likes to have her readers on edge and most of these curveballs I did not see coming.
Xaden knows more of what is happening around him than Torin credits him for and when he shows that he has no remorse in killing her friend, her need for revenge and vengeance ticks up a notch.
I cried and wanted to f3ck up Xaden myself as he certainly knew how to takeover the reigns of his fathers mafia family with ease.
What he does hate is the fact that he still feels the pull towards HER! He knows what he needs to do and even though she has accepted her fate that she will die at the hands of Xaden, she still tries to plot and take down her father and brother and Xaden all at the same time.
Her new found family, The Denver Kings, Halo, Carnage, Omen, Pope and Vatican are there to watch her back and help her win the war that is about to erupt.
Are they enough tho?. Carn and Torin get close. Closer than all the rest, but they all agree she is not alone in this war.
So I read, I absorbed what was going on, I accepted Xaden was definitely a sick physco f3ck, and I accepted that Torin was in love with him. Even if she did not say it out loud. Does the twisted feelings Xaden have for Torin reflect the same as hers....hmmmm that is the question! And when the secret she is carrying around with her is revealed, Xander loses the plot!
The ending to this story came way too soon....Sorry Samantha.....and I need to know what happens next!! Like pronto!! Loved the soft cliff hanger and will wait patiently for Book 3
This is the 2nd instalment in The Devlin Mafia series and is definitely worthy of 5*.
“Xaden Devlin nearly killed me. Toren Kellar brought me back. That's the whole review.” extract from book 2 and sums it up nicely!
Review of advance copy received from Author
O.M.G. No words, jaw on the floor, book absolutely devoured. If I thought book one was insane, this one. Samantha Barrett, you outdid yourself! You killed it, you wrote something so freaking good! Pucking With The Enemy is book two in the Devlin mafia series. As she does best, Samantha wrote a DARKKKKK, unhinged, emotional mind F, hot as hell college hockey romance! I am telling you, YOU NEED THIS SERIES!
Book two takes us right back. Everything is a mess. Secrets have been revealed. Toren was taken. Zaden is out for blood. And the Denver Kings are all up in it! Xaden… This man, if I thought he was a complete morally grey alphahole in book one, o he outdid himself completely! ! He's dark, so angry, and completely unforgiving, a walking red flag. But I believe this man down deep truly loves our girl. He just cant let go of the past. Toren… I LOVED how she found her voice, her backbone. With her memories back, she is out for blood. And she has the Denver Kings by her side and omg did I love getting to know them all more! She wants to fight what she feels for him because it is such a freaking unhinged mess, but this man has her soul down deep. And the push and pull between these two, the angst, the absolute fire between these two when they give in. It’s so toxic yet so undeniable and inevitable and pure fire!
Add in all their family and friends and the questions they bring into it all. (Heartbreaking moments you will need kleenex for!!)
Just when you think you know one thing, nope, totally wrong. Everything is a question, nothing is as it seems! Everyone is plotting and planning and has their own agenda. I am telling you, this book is every single emotion! And the cliffhanger! OMGGGGG! Samantha! We need to know what happens asap! Just start this series now. It’s everything: dark mafia romance filled with enemies-to-lovers tension, obsessive possessive pure unhinged characters, dangerous secrets and lies and so much more!
Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🌶️
🖤 DarkCollege Hockey Romance
🖤 Bully Romance
🖤 Revenge
🖤 Mafia / Cartel
🖤 Forced Proximity
🖤 Secrets / Betrayal
Book two takes us right back. Everything is a mess. Secrets have been revealed. Toren was taken. Zaden is out for blood. And the Denver Kings are all up in it! Xaden… This man, if I thought he was a complete morally grey alphahole in book one, o he outdid himself completely! ! He's dark, so angry, and completely unforgiving, a walking red flag. But I believe this man down deep truly loves our girl. He just cant let go of the past. Toren… I LOVED how she found her voice, her backbone. With her memories back, she is out for blood. And she has the Denver Kings by her side and omg did I love getting to know them all more! She wants to fight what she feels for him because it is such a freaking unhinged mess, but this man has her soul down deep. And the push and pull between these two, the angst, the absolute fire between these two when they give in. It’s so toxic yet so undeniable and inevitable and pure fire!
Add in all their family and friends and the questions they bring into it all. (Heartbreaking moments you will need kleenex for!!)
Just when you think you know one thing, nope, totally wrong. Everything is a question, nothing is as it seems! Everyone is plotting and planning and has their own agenda. I am telling you, this book is every single emotion! And the cliffhanger! OMGGGGG! Samantha! We need to know what happens asap! Just start this series now. It’s everything: dark mafia romance filled with enemies-to-lovers tension, obsessive possessive pure unhinged characters, dangerous secrets and lies and so much more!
Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🌶️
🖤 DarkCollege Hockey Romance
🖤 Bully Romance
🖤 Revenge
🖤 Mafia / Cartel
🖤 Forced Proximity
🖤 Secrets / Betrayal
June 12, 2026
Just like with the first book, the hate between Xaden and Toren is very much real, yet they can't seem to let each other go. There were a few shocking moments that I wasn't prepared for and one of them did make me tear up because I didn't think the person deserved what happened to them. I'm curious when it comes to Toren's situation how she can manage all of the stress that Xaden and her brother put on her because in normal situations, the magnitude of stress that she experiences can lead to bad things. The hate sex between Xaden and Toren definitely showed how deranged Xaden is.
The ending was twisty as hell and I can't wait to see what happens in the third book. I do wish we got more details as to who the Denver Kings are and why they are so important to bringing Xaden and Toren's family down. Even with what was in the book...I definitely longed for more info because for how fast the pace was, the introduction and scenes with them seemed very short. I did love how they became allies in Torens plan though, and I can't wait to see how they play a role in the third book. Even with Xaden's anger towards everything and everyone, I did appreciate that Xaden was able to show a tiny glimpse of some humanity throughout the book.
Overall, not a bad follow-up to Puck Around and Find Out. Highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy dark college hockey romances mixed with mafia chaos. Also recommend to readers who enjoy true enemies to lovers.
Favorite quote:
"The most dangerous thing a man can do is love someone he was never supposed to protect. The second most dangerous thing is knowing exactly what's coming and walking toward it anyway."
The ending was twisty as hell and I can't wait to see what happens in the third book. I do wish we got more details as to who the Denver Kings are and why they are so important to bringing Xaden and Toren's family down. Even with what was in the book...I definitely longed for more info because for how fast the pace was, the introduction and scenes with them seemed very short. I did love how they became allies in Torens plan though, and I can't wait to see how they play a role in the third book. Even with Xaden's anger towards everything and everyone, I did appreciate that Xaden was able to show a tiny glimpse of some humanity throughout the book.
Overall, not a bad follow-up to Puck Around and Find Out. Highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy dark college hockey romances mixed with mafia chaos. Also recommend to readers who enjoy true enemies to lovers.
Favorite quote:
"The most dangerous thing a man can do is love someone he was never supposed to protect. The second most dangerous thing is knowing exactly what's coming and walking toward it anyway."
June 14, 2026
ARC review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pucking with the Enemy is everything I love about a dark sports romance wrapped in betrayal, secrets, and a love story that feels doomed from the very beginning. It’s intense, emotional, and packed with enough twists to keep you questioning everyone until the very last page.
From the first chapter, there’s an undercurrent of danger that never lets up. The heroine returns to Stormsend carrying the weight of a betrayal that cost her everything, a year of her life, her reputation, and her trust. She’s not coming back for closure. She’s coming back for revenge.
Then there’s Xaden Devlin.
And wow.
Xaden is the definition of a dark romance hero. Ruthless, angry, and carrying enough resentment to burn the world down, he has every reason to hate her. Their relationship begins with hostility, suspicion, and enough tension to light the pages on fire. Every interaction feels like a battle, and neither one is willing to surrender first.
But beneath the threats and bitterness lies something far more dangerous.
The chemistry between them is electric because it’s built on conflict, pain, and the possibility that everything they’ve been told might be a lie. As secrets unravel and loyalties are tested, the story transforms from an enemies-to-lovers romance into something much bigger, a fight for survival against enemies hiding behind familiar faces.
What really stood out to me was the emotional depth. Both characters are damaged by the past, manipulated by people they trusted, and forced to confront truths that could destroy everything they thought they knew. Their connection feels earned because it develops in the middle of absolute chaos.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pucking with the Enemy is everything I love about a dark sports romance wrapped in betrayal, secrets, and a love story that feels doomed from the very beginning. It’s intense, emotional, and packed with enough twists to keep you questioning everyone until the very last page.
From the first chapter, there’s an undercurrent of danger that never lets up. The heroine returns to Stormsend carrying the weight of a betrayal that cost her everything, a year of her life, her reputation, and her trust. She’s not coming back for closure. She’s coming back for revenge.
Then there’s Xaden Devlin.
And wow.
Xaden is the definition of a dark romance hero. Ruthless, angry, and carrying enough resentment to burn the world down, he has every reason to hate her. Their relationship begins with hostility, suspicion, and enough tension to light the pages on fire. Every interaction feels like a battle, and neither one is willing to surrender first.
But beneath the threats and bitterness lies something far more dangerous.
The chemistry between them is electric because it’s built on conflict, pain, and the possibility that everything they’ve been told might be a lie. As secrets unravel and loyalties are tested, the story transforms from an enemies-to-lovers romance into something much bigger, a fight for survival against enemies hiding behind familiar faces.
What really stood out to me was the emotional depth. Both characters are damaged by the past, manipulated by people they trusted, and forced to confront truths that could destroy everything they thought they knew. Their connection feels earned because it develops in the middle of absolute chaos.
June 13, 2026
OMG she has done it again.
And dare I say…this book was even better than the first one.
Toren came out guns and bodyguards blazing and I was hooked from page one. But let’s talk about the real reason I inhaled this book like it was oxygen: Xaden Devlin.
My Xaden.
What does it say about me that this man is objectively terrifying and yet I would probably defend him in a court of law? Don’t answer that.
The enemies are still enemies. The morality is still questionable at best. Everyone is still making decisions that would have a therapist filing paperwork for emotional hazard pay. And somehow it all works perfectly.
The tension? Incredible.
The banter? Twisted and addictive.
The chemistry? Absolutely unhinged.
Every interaction felt like a battle where nobody was willing to surrender and I ate up every second of it. Samantha Barrett has a way of writing characters who are damaged, dangerous, and impossible to look away from. You know they’re bad for each other. You know this relationship is built on secrets, manipulation, and violence. Yet somehow you’re still desperately rooting for them.
And Xaden…
“He was kissed by the devil and wrapped in darkness yet I find beauty in it.”
Honestly, that quote perfectly sums up my entire reading experience.
This book grabbed me by the throat and refused to let go. I devoured every page and now I’m left staring into the void waiting for book three.
I need the next installment like I need oxygen.
Read if you love:
🏒 Dark hockey romance
🖤 Morally black MMCs
🔥 Enemies who never stop being enemies
🔪 Twisted banter and dangerous
And dare I say…this book was even better than the first one.
Toren came out guns and bodyguards blazing and I was hooked from page one. But let’s talk about the real reason I inhaled this book like it was oxygen: Xaden Devlin.
My Xaden.
What does it say about me that this man is objectively terrifying and yet I would probably defend him in a court of law? Don’t answer that.
The enemies are still enemies. The morality is still questionable at best. Everyone is still making decisions that would have a therapist filing paperwork for emotional hazard pay. And somehow it all works perfectly.
The tension? Incredible.
The banter? Twisted and addictive.
The chemistry? Absolutely unhinged.
Every interaction felt like a battle where nobody was willing to surrender and I ate up every second of it. Samantha Barrett has a way of writing characters who are damaged, dangerous, and impossible to look away from. You know they’re bad for each other. You know this relationship is built on secrets, manipulation, and violence. Yet somehow you’re still desperately rooting for them.
And Xaden…
“He was kissed by the devil and wrapped in darkness yet I find beauty in it.”
Honestly, that quote perfectly sums up my entire reading experience.
This book grabbed me by the throat and refused to let go. I devoured every page and now I’m left staring into the void waiting for book three.
I need the next installment like I need oxygen.
Read if you love:
🏒 Dark hockey romance
🖤 Morally black MMCs
🔥 Enemies who never stop being enemies
🔪 Twisted banter and dangerous
June 15, 2026
OMG THIS BOOK HAS ME IN A CHOKEHOLD STILL!! A MUST READ!!
Wow Samantha Barrett, held nothing back in this one and the twists are pure perfection that leaves you screaming out into the void lol. Let me just say this has become one of my absolute favorites by this author!!
This is definitely a read in order series & check TW beforehand because book 2 picks right up where book 1 ended. The chaos is swirling and Toren is finding her inner queen of darkness. She's ready to take down everyone who has wronged her and even Xaden the devil himself. Xaden is the worst in this one because he is definitely the epitome of love to hate here lol.
I absolutely love that we get a few favorites from previous books in this one and especially seeing one male character who gets to show a softer side in this book. This book brings so many action packed twists and the manipulation is at an all time high where you are now trying to figure out who is with who and what will happen next. This book is one you can't put down once you start so beware if you have time constraints because you won't want to stop.
What can you expect this time around is mafia/cartel wars, dark themes, twists and turns, suspense, spice, manipulation, former characters from previous books, secrets unravel, and an epic cliffhanger making you need more ASAP!!
This is a ABSOLUTE MUST READ!! Top 2026 read for series for me!!
Overall: 5/☆☆☆☆☆
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
Wow Samantha Barrett, held nothing back in this one and the twists are pure perfection that leaves you screaming out into the void lol. Let me just say this has become one of my absolute favorites by this author!!
This is definitely a read in order series & check TW beforehand because book 2 picks right up where book 1 ended. The chaos is swirling and Toren is finding her inner queen of darkness. She's ready to take down everyone who has wronged her and even Xaden the devil himself. Xaden is the worst in this one because he is definitely the epitome of love to hate here lol.
I absolutely love that we get a few favorites from previous books in this one and especially seeing one male character who gets to show a softer side in this book. This book brings so many action packed twists and the manipulation is at an all time high where you are now trying to figure out who is with who and what will happen next. This book is one you can't put down once you start so beware if you have time constraints because you won't want to stop.
What can you expect this time around is mafia/cartel wars, dark themes, twists and turns, suspense, spice, manipulation, former characters from previous books, secrets unravel, and an epic cliffhanger making you need more ASAP!!
This is a ABSOLUTE MUST READ!! Top 2026 read for series for me!!
Overall: 5/☆☆☆☆☆
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
June 14, 2026
Pucking With The Enemy, is intense, shocking, and absolutely addictive. You must read Puck Around and Find Out before diving in. Toren is coming into her own and becoming more of a baddie than she already was. Tor realizes that she needs help to take down The Devlin Cosa Nostra and her father and brother. So she enlists the help of the Denver Kings: Carnage, Pope, Vatican, Halo, and Omen. Our unhinged, diabolocal, beautiful Xaden still absolutely loathes Toren and wants to unalive her, along with her family. The toxic chemistry between Toren and Xaden is undeniable. But they are still wholly at war against each other. There are a few events that occurred that had me freaking out, speechless, and in tears (IYKYK) . Seriously, Samantha! I loved the inclusion of characters from other books, like The Denver Kings and the The Filthy Few ( If you haven't, definitely read The Dirty Temptation Series! So good)! I love the relationship between Tor and Carn. This book was insane and incredible! The story does end with a massive cliffhanger. Seriously, the next book can't come soon enough! If a baddie FMC, an unhinged morally black MMC, and a Enemies While Lovers story peaks you're interest then this is a must read! Please, read the warnings before diving in! Xaden is truly extreme and unhinged (But we can't help but be drawn to him anyway)!
June 15, 2026
~Arc Review~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
~Pucking With The Enemy~Devlin Mafia Book 2~Samantha Barrett~
“Psychology says when a woman lives under constant stress and uncertainty, her body adapts by going into survival mode. She becomes tense, alert, and drained, always bracing for the next thing to go wrong. Even in moments of calm, her mind can’t fully relax. It’s not that she’s overreacting. Her nervous system just doesn’t remember what it feels like to be safe.”
♡SAMANTHA these cliffys are going to take me out & we can't have that because I need to be here for book three! Obviously this story starts off where book one left us HANGING & I ate it up leaving nothing behind except maybe my sanity & my morals?? Please for the love of all things holy tell me why I can despise Xaden Devlin to the point of no return one second, then he says one sweet thing & I'm on my knees defending him....? No wonder Toren doesn't know whether she's coming or going (Pun intended because phew does Samantha know how to write spice!)
If you go wild for dark hockey romances but also love a true bully/enemies to lovers trope don't sleep on this series because you're in for the ride of a lifetime so buckle up!♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
~Pucking With The Enemy~Devlin Mafia Book 2~Samantha Barrett~
“Psychology says when a woman lives under constant stress and uncertainty, her body adapts by going into survival mode. She becomes tense, alert, and drained, always bracing for the next thing to go wrong. Even in moments of calm, her mind can’t fully relax. It’s not that she’s overreacting. Her nervous system just doesn’t remember what it feels like to be safe.”
♡SAMANTHA these cliffys are going to take me out & we can't have that because I need to be here for book three! Obviously this story starts off where book one left us HANGING & I ate it up leaving nothing behind except maybe my sanity & my morals?? Please for the love of all things holy tell me why I can despise Xaden Devlin to the point of no return one second, then he says one sweet thing & I'm on my knees defending him....? No wonder Toren doesn't know whether she's coming or going (Pun intended because phew does Samantha know how to write spice!)
If you go wild for dark hockey romances but also love a true bully/enemies to lovers trope don't sleep on this series because you're in for the ride of a lifetime so buckle up!♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
Review of advance copy received from Author
Holy shit… what did I just read.
Pucking with the Enemy absolutely came in swinging with chaos, tension, and emotional whiplash in every direction.
Toren comes back like a force of nature—she’s not just surviving anymore, she’s deciding. She knows what needs to happen and finally finds the support to actually do it. But nothing could’ve prepared her for how her body reacts to Xaden—the man tied to both her deepest hatred and her most confusing feelings.
He’s the source of her pain… and somehow still the source of everything she can’t let go of.
And honestly? This book does not let you settle for a single opinion. It keeps flipping the board. One minute you love someone, the next you’re questioning their entire existence. I didn’t know who to trust, who to root for, or who I wanted to personally drag into the nearest locker room and scream at.
The twists are relentless, the tension is sharp, and the emotional stakes feel constantly on fire. I finished it stunned, slightly unwell, and already desperate for book three.
Pucking with the Enemy absolutely came in swinging with chaos, tension, and emotional whiplash in every direction.
Toren comes back like a force of nature—she’s not just surviving anymore, she’s deciding. She knows what needs to happen and finally finds the support to actually do it. But nothing could’ve prepared her for how her body reacts to Xaden—the man tied to both her deepest hatred and her most confusing feelings.
He’s the source of her pain… and somehow still the source of everything she can’t let go of.
And honestly? This book does not let you settle for a single opinion. It keeps flipping the board. One minute you love someone, the next you’re questioning their entire existence. I didn’t know who to trust, who to root for, or who I wanted to personally drag into the nearest locker room and scream at.
The twists are relentless, the tension is sharp, and the emotional stakes feel constantly on fire. I finished it stunned, slightly unwell, and already desperate for book three.
June 15, 2026
I loved this so much more than book 1 but I say that with love. Book 1 was needed to set the scene and build the story where book 2 DELIVERED!
I enjoyed the recap and found it very helpful.
Check your triggers for this one before diving in.
I also have a little crush on Toren. I love that she came into her own in this book and grew a backbone, YES GURRRLLL. I love that she is called Tor as well as it's my nickname ahah.
I loved the introduction of the Kings also. Very excited to see more of them. Carnage is my Fav.
The bloody cliffhanger left me screaming. As soon as we found out I was like wtf??!!
I really, really enjoyed this. Bring on book 3!
Fav Quotes as always:
"I'll make sure our child knows I was the one who slaughtered their father."
"I'll cut off the head of the snake and wear it like a crown. For Kellan."
"And that's why he's the most dangerous person alive. Not because he can kill me, but because he's the only one who can make me hesitate."
I enjoyed the recap and found it very helpful.
Check your triggers for this one before diving in.
I also have a little crush on Toren. I love that she came into her own in this book and grew a backbone, YES GURRRLLL. I love that she is called Tor as well as it's my nickname ahah.
I loved the introduction of the Kings also. Very excited to see more of them. Carnage is my Fav.
The bloody cliffhanger left me screaming. As soon as we found out I was like wtf??!!
I really, really enjoyed this. Bring on book 3!
Fav Quotes as always:
"I'll make sure our child knows I was the one who slaughtered their father."
"I'll cut off the head of the snake and wear it like a crown. For Kellan."
"And that's why he's the most dangerous person alive. Not because he can kill me, but because he's the only one who can make me hesitate."
June 12, 2026
Pucking With The Enemy is the second book in the Devlin Mafia series and you definitely need to read the first book Puck Around and Find Out before starting this one. This story dives straight back into the chaos where the first book left us hanging as you try to work out what is going on and who can be trusted. More truths are revealed and dynamic's are shifting as Toren and Xaden fight each other and their feelings in this messy, violent and tension filled mafia world. This is a enemies to lovers romance in a world that is filled with darkness, twists and turns, revenge, drama, dangerous secrets and a past that might consume and destroy them all. I loved the addition of the Denver Kings and after another nail biting cliffhanger I will be looking forward to the next book to find out what happens next!!!
June 16, 2026
This book is like enemies to lovers on crack. The genuine hatred that Xaden and Toren feel for one another is actually insane. I feel like in dark romance, it’s so hard to get enemies to ‘lovers’ (I wouldn’t call them lovers) right. But this book just scratched my brain the right way and I think it really portrays them being enemies but having this VERY unwanted attraction/possession of each other very well. It’s so hard to find a perfect separation of the two without too much yearning or coddling happening too quickly. But this book, they just keep finding reasons to hate each other and I love how the Toren really finds her backbone in this book and isn’t letting her past trauma make her into a punching bag. She is so strong and the perfect flame to Xadens house of emotions. I have been smiling at the tension in this book from start to finish. Oh and did I mention the hockey,mafia rivals, dark academic tropes??? Need book 3 ASAP.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2026
At the end of book one all hell breaks loose and Toren ended up back at Walter House. (All thanks to Kellan) for two months she’s been devising her plans for all who fucked her over. Now free she puts her plan for revenge together. Enrolling in Crestview University (CHU) posing as an exchange student. She approaches Nova , Vivian and Tatum asking for and their guys to help her. So now The Denver Kings and The Filthy Few on her side. Xaden is battling his own demons. Should he give in to his feelings for his Lil Fairy or continue his quest to get rid of her and her family. A lot of truths come to light in this story. Man was this crazy af. Loved it from start to finish. Andddd of course the Queen of Cliffy’s didn’t disappoint lol. Thanks for that Sam btw. So don’t go throwing your book or whatever devise you read this on across the room. Lol
June 19, 2026
What a crazy roller coaster!
Xaden and Toren are one hot mess and I'm totally here for every minute of it. I can't get enough of these two. They are so toxic, but at the same time so perfect for each other. Make it make sense.
This is the second book in this trilogy, and it was so good. Full of steam and passion, danger and viciousness, lies and secrets, mysteries and twists that I never saw coming. Seriously, never saw coming. I don't know how I'm going to wait for the next one to come out. It is killing me. I need it right now because I was not expecting that I need to know what happens next.
And on let's not forget how great it was to see characters from another series connected back to this. I really wanted to see more of them and we got that. But now I just want even more of them, too. I'm so ready for the next book. I need it!
Xaden and Toren are one hot mess and I'm totally here for every minute of it. I can't get enough of these two. They are so toxic, but at the same time so perfect for each other. Make it make sense.
This is the second book in this trilogy, and it was so good. Full of steam and passion, danger and viciousness, lies and secrets, mysteries and twists that I never saw coming. Seriously, never saw coming. I don't know how I'm going to wait for the next one to come out. It is killing me. I need it right now because I was not expecting that I need to know what happens next.
And on let's not forget how great it was to see characters from another series connected back to this. I really wanted to see more of them and we got that. But now I just want even more of them, too. I'm so ready for the next book. I need it!
June 4, 2026
Just when I thought I knew what was going on. I was totally wrong.
I have no words for the shock that is that ending. Reading this book was a mind fuck and I trust no one.
Xaden is a psychopath and I don’t know if there are any redeeming qualities. I kinda don’t believe there can be a happy ending for him and Toren. I know their sexual attraction to each other is off the charts but Jesus girl he’s constantly trying to break you, torment you and eventually probably kill you.
I can’t figure out why Xaden still hates Toren, despite knowing she wasn’t the one driving. And the reasoning of her sharing a last name with the killer is just bullshit.
I did love this book but a lot of it was just hate fucking 😂 not mad about it but still.
Thank you to Samantha for the ARC.
I have no words for the shock that is that ending. Reading this book was a mind fuck and I trust no one.
Xaden is a psychopath and I don’t know if there are any redeeming qualities. I kinda don’t believe there can be a happy ending for him and Toren. I know their sexual attraction to each other is off the charts but Jesus girl he’s constantly trying to break you, torment you and eventually probably kill you.
I can’t figure out why Xaden still hates Toren, despite knowing she wasn’t the one driving. And the reasoning of her sharing a last name with the killer is just bullshit.
I did love this book but a lot of it was just hate fucking 😂 not mad about it but still.
Thank you to Samantha for the ARC.
June 12, 2026
OMG!! OMG!! WTAF did I just read!!?? This picks up from Bk.1 & is a continuation of Toren & Xaden's story & I was NOT prepared!! When she comes back, she has vengeance on her mind.... the problem is Xaden does as well. He's drastically different than he was before & she has many secrets. Neither can resist the pull though & it's problematic. Their relationship is toxic on another level. This time, she has help though & it was awesome catching up with the Denver Kings; they're right there beside her & a war is brewing. So many plot twists I did not see coming; betrayals & secrets come to light & I cannot wait until the next one!! The spice was fantastic & the story was amazing!! Highly recommend this series & author!
June 14, 2026
This series has me in the biggest chokehold! This is dark dark romance with a completely unhinged, depraved mmc who hates everybody including the fmc Toren.
This continues straight on from the end of book 1 and maybe the biggest change we see is in fmc Toren. No longer the scared girl who had no friends, she's hardened, tough and out not only for revenge but to take her place as leader.
MMC Xaden is even more twisted in book 2 if that's possible 🤣. So full of hate, especially towards Toren and never wastes a second in telling her how much he despises her, despite their chemistry being off the charts.
But Toren is choosing herself, even if it means they stand on separate sides of the war!
I loved the cameos from The Filthy Few & the Denver Kings... can't wait for book 3!
This continues straight on from the end of book 1 and maybe the biggest change we see is in fmc Toren. No longer the scared girl who had no friends, she's hardened, tough and out not only for revenge but to take her place as leader.
MMC Xaden is even more twisted in book 2 if that's possible 🤣. So full of hate, especially towards Toren and never wastes a second in telling her how much he despises her, despite their chemistry being off the charts.
But Toren is choosing herself, even if it means they stand on separate sides of the war!
I loved the cameos from The Filthy Few & the Denver Kings... can't wait for book 3!
June 13, 2026
Pucking With The Enemy by Samantha Barrett is the continuing story of Xaden and Torren. Whew…this guy really HATES her. She has been away, against her will. Now, she discovers the truth. But, Xaden blames her for everything. And whew…is he ever bitter and wants MAJOR revenge. Somehow they both are hesitant to move forward with their plans.
The family dynamics, the betrayals, all of the truths that slowly come to light. Who would have thought of combining dark mafia and hockey in one incredibly dark, engrossing, bitter romance…that will keep you clawing through this book!! Fantastic read!! Ends in a cliffhanger
The family dynamics, the betrayals, all of the truths that slowly come to light. Who would have thought of combining dark mafia and hockey in one incredibly dark, engrossing, bitter romance…that will keep you clawing through this book!! Fantastic read!! Ends in a cliffhanger
June 13, 2026
Book 2 will blow you away. You have to read book 1 to be able to understand this one.
Toren, Xaden and Caspian are back. 1 has a secret, 1 has a revenge plan and 1 is not who you think they are. Toren came back with a plan to get revenge on the family that used her, she is stronger then ever. Xaden is out for revenge for his sister and will stop at nothing to get it. Caspian is along for the ride and has secrets of his own. The 3 of them are unstoppable but go against each other in ways that they shouldn't. Book 3 should be hotter then anything. Be ready for a wild ride with gut wrenching outcomes. Samantha does not disappoint.
Toren, Xaden and Caspian are back. 1 has a secret, 1 has a revenge plan and 1 is not who you think they are. Toren came back with a plan to get revenge on the family that used her, she is stronger then ever. Xaden is out for revenge for his sister and will stop at nothing to get it. Caspian is along for the ride and has secrets of his own. The 3 of them are unstoppable but go against each other in ways that they shouldn't. Book 3 should be hotter then anything. Be ready for a wild ride with gut wrenching outcomes. Samantha does not disappoint.
June 20, 2026
Xaden Devlin makes me feel physically ill. He's so gross. The story itself is really good, but I'm honestly just sticking with it now in hopes of seeing him die some gruesome death. The writing is great, and the plot is exciting and complicated. I just can't stand him at all. I like anti-hero stories in general, but they also usually have at least some small redeeming quality about the dude, and that is just not the case here. He's just really gross all the way around. I'm hoping this author has other stories that inspire more connection with the characters because I really enjoy her style and storytelling. This MMC just gives ick, though.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Stress, anxiety, nerve wracking, exhaustion. Some of the things I felt reading this book. BUT, I was there for every bit of it! Secrets, lies, betrayals, it's all there in Toren and Xadens story. Xaden stayed on my nerves all throughout the book and I'm left wondering if there's anything at all good about him. And Toren, why does she keep going back. This story is an intense, dramatic, gritty journey that will absolutely have you in a chokehold very quickly and keeps hold of you from start to finish. Devlin Mafia has a fantastic addition to the series with Pucking With The Enemy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Pucking with the enemy
I really enjoyed this one. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic kept me hooked from the start, especially with all the unresolved history between the main characters. Watching them navigate old wounds, confront past mistakes, and slowly rebuild trust added an emotional layer that made the story more than just a typical sports romance.
The hockey setting added to the fun, and I found myself completely invested in how their story would unfold. If you love sports romances with great chemistry, emotional depth, and plenty of swoony moments, this is definitely one to add to your TBR.
I really enjoyed this one. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic kept me hooked from the start, especially with all the unresolved history between the main characters. Watching them navigate old wounds, confront past mistakes, and slowly rebuild trust added an emotional layer that made the story more than just a typical sports romance.
The hockey setting added to the fun, and I found myself completely invested in how their story would unfold. If you love sports romances with great chemistry, emotional depth, and plenty of swoony moments, this is definitely one to add to your TBR.
June 12, 2026
Emotional read
If you are looking for a dark romance with hockey but a little bit of rip your heart out then Pucking with the Enemy is the book for you. We saw how much hatred Xaden had for Torren before he found out the truth. But to see him with her after is heart breaking. Torren was the gurl who live care free. Had big dreams and wanted to go far. Until one night not only destroyed hers but also others. Xaden is ruthless but Torren is coming back and shes not alone. This book is live today
If you are looking for a dark romance with hockey but a little bit of rip your heart out then Pucking with the Enemy is the book for you. We saw how much hatred Xaden had for Torren before he found out the truth. But to see him with her after is heart breaking. Torren was the gurl who live care free. Had big dreams and wanted to go far. Until one night not only destroyed hers but also others. Xaden is ruthless but Torren is coming back and shes not alone. This book is live today
Did Not Finish
June 14, 2026This one ended up being a DNF for me, and not because it was bad.
It just never fully clicked for me. I wasn’t connecting the way I wanted to, and I found myself struggling to stay engaged.
Lately, I’ve been trying to be more intentional with my reading and stick to books that truly pull me in and spark that can’t-stop-reading feeling. As much as I wanted this one to be that book, it just wasn’t the right fit for me at this time.
I’d still encourage giving it a try, it might hit completely different for you.
I plan to come back to this one for a July read!
🫶🏽
It just never fully clicked for me. I wasn’t connecting the way I wanted to, and I found myself struggling to stay engaged.
Lately, I’ve been trying to be more intentional with my reading and stick to books that truly pull me in and spark that can’t-stop-reading feeling. As much as I wanted this one to be that book, it just wasn’t the right fit for me at this time.
I’d still encourage giving it a try, it might hit completely different for you.
I plan to come back to this one for a July read!
🫶🏽
June 16, 2026
O.M.G!! Dark, Bully, Mafia, Cartel, Enemies-to-lovers (hatefck), betrayal, hatred, secrets unravelling, pitch black, all the red flags, all the spice.
Must read in order, and check those TW's, cause... well... yeah...
I did get emotional, my heart ached again for Toren.
Xaden.... he's determined to exterminate Toren's father & brother.
With her memories returning from that night, she's out for revenge, to take down her father, brother and Xaden. With some surprising help.
Loving that Toren is becoming stronger, finding her found family. Hoping that continues through to book 3.
Must read in order, and check those TW's, cause... well... yeah...
I did get emotional, my heart ached again for Toren.
Xaden.... he's determined to exterminate Toren's father & brother.
With her memories returning from that night, she's out for revenge, to take down her father, brother and Xaden. With some surprising help.
Loving that Toren is becoming stronger, finding her found family. Hoping that continues through to book 3.
June 18, 2026
First I have to say this author is a must read for me. With this book, I loved how she incorporated a review from book one within. You can still feel the love / hate relationship between Toren and Xaden. Ofcourse you still have the unexpected twist and turns that you come to love in her books. My opinion on some of the characters changed from book one. We also get appearances from previous book characters which I loved. The cliffhanger had me throwing my Kindle. Can't wait for book 3 to come out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
OMG! I LOVED this book. SO STRESSFUL. It's addictive and full of betrayals. Secrets that feel like they're going to consume you at every corner. The romance/threat storyline is seriously terrifying. And it leaves you DYING for book 2 because it keeps kicking up the stakes and turning your expectations on their head. I love Samantha's books, if she writes it, I am reading it!
PLEASE READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS SO YOU'RE NOT GIVING A BAD REVIEW FOR WHAT YOU SHOULD HAVE ALREADY KNOWN
PLEASE READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS SO YOU'RE NOT GIVING A BAD REVIEW FOR WHAT YOU SHOULD HAVE ALREADY KNOWN
June 12, 2026
This is an amazing read that from the moment you start reading you find yourself in another world, and no matter what happens, you do not know what to expect. This book will keep you interested and reading and craving what is going to happen next. It moves along at a great pace, has amazing characters and a story that does not disappoint. This is a must read book that needs to be at the top of your TBR list. You will not be sorry that you did.
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