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Pucks & Penalties #3
Saving Forever
One year.
One contract.
One fake wife I can’t let go of.
As a professional hockey player, I don’t lose—and I don’t do relationships. But my family demands a wife, and I don’t need the distraction.
So I buy one.
One year.
Two million dollars.
No feelings.
It should’ve been simple.
Except she’s everything I didn’t plan for—smart, tempting, impossible to ignore.
My teammates love her. My family is convinced. And I can’t keep my hands off her.
She was only supposed to be temporary.
But now she’s mine.
I don’t share.
I don’t lose.
And I won’t let her walk away.
One contract.
One fake wife I can’t let go of.
As a professional hockey player, I don’t lose—and I don’t do relationships. But my family demands a wife, and I don’t need the distraction.
So I buy one.
One year.
Two million dollars.
No feelings.
It should’ve been simple.
Except she’s everything I didn’t plan for—smart, tempting, impossible to ignore.
My teammates love her. My family is convinced. And I can’t keep my hands off her.
She was only supposed to be temporary.
But now she’s mine.
I don’t share.
I don’t lose.
And I won’t let her walk away.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 30, 2026
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August 1, 2026Thoughts:
1. Learn ASAP that he was left at the altar not that long ago. It was an arrangement, but he'd planned on making the best of it with kids, etc.
2. I'm interpreting one statement as him being a HUGE (read as gross) manwhore. Here's why in his POV -- i became sexually active at sixteen and have never gone more than three months since then. He's 27. That's eleven years. Say he only has sex once every three months, for an idea. Every three months in a twelve month period equals four. Four times a year times eleven years equals FORTY-FOUR. If there are repeats, it's not as icky. But if not...eww. (All this because he assumes he and Holly won't be intimate during their arrangement, so he'll be celibate for a whole year. Oh no! The torture. *rolls eyes* Which isn't even the case because like two pages later, we learn he'd planned on discreetly taking care of "his needs" with occasional ONS all so he wouldn't be overly frustrated. Viktor sounds like a whiny little bitch. He's so afraid of his mom that he offered this ruse to Holly, which helps her out because her ex stole her money-- two VERY dofferent circumstances. I may not be finishing this due to a rising level of annoyance.
3. Having some of the birds at Holly's grandma's sanctuary was so unnecessary (I don't care that they aren't real) and should've been stated in a trigger warning.
1. Learn ASAP that he was left at the altar not that long ago. It was an arrangement, but he'd planned on making the best of it with kids, etc.
2. I'm interpreting one statement as him being a HUGE (read as gross) manwhore. Here's why in his POV -- i became sexually active at sixteen and have never gone more than three months since then. He's 27. That's eleven years. Say he only has sex once every three months, for an idea. Every three months in a twelve month period equals four. Four times a year times eleven years equals FORTY-FOUR. If there are repeats, it's not as icky. But if not...eww. (All this because he assumes he and Holly won't be intimate during their arrangement, so he'll be celibate for a whole year. Oh no! The torture. *rolls eyes* Which isn't even the case because like two pages later, we learn he'd planned on discreetly taking care of "his needs" with occasional ONS all so he wouldn't be overly frustrated. Viktor sounds like a whiny little bitch. He's so afraid of his mom that he offered this ruse to Holly, which helps her out because her ex stole her money-- two VERY dofferent circumstances. I may not be finishing this due to a rising level of annoyance.
3. Having some of the birds at Holly's grandma's sanctuary was so unnecessary (I don't care that they aren't real) and should've been stated in a trigger warning.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2026
This is the third book in this impressive series, and this is Victor and Holly’s story.
Victor is a Russian pro hockey goalie, who has language challenges, but his family demand he should be married, while Holly has not had the best of pasts, which have left her with money worries, through no fault of her own. Eavesdropping a phone call, and alliances are secured, and Holly signs up to become Victor’s wife for 1-year, with no feeling, and a 2-million-dollar payout.
This is a well written easy to read story, with family, friendships, emotions, alliances, marriage of convenience, drama, fake relationships, touch her and die vibes, engaging and realistic character, humour, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining hockey romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Victor is a Russian pro hockey goalie, who has language challenges, but his family demand he should be married, while Holly has not had the best of pasts, which have left her with money worries, through no fault of her own. Eavesdropping a phone call, and alliances are secured, and Holly signs up to become Victor’s wife for 1-year, with no feeling, and a 2-million-dollar payout.
This is a well written easy to read story, with family, friendships, emotions, alliances, marriage of convenience, drama, fake relationships, touch her and die vibes, engaging and realistic character, humour, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining hockey romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
August 11, 2026
"𝙏𝙃𝙀𝙍𝙀 𝘼𝙍𝙀 𝙉𝙊 𝙊𝙏𝙃𝙀𝙍 𝙒𝙊𝙈𝙀𝙉-𝙊𝙉𝙇𝙔 𝙏𝙃𝙄𝙎 𝙊𝙉𝙀. 𝙈𝙔 𝙒𝙄𝙁𝙀."
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
ONE YEAR.
TWO MILLION DOLLARS.
ONE FAKE RUSSIAN HUSBAND.
Guys.
I have been revived.
We survived the no-spice zone and have officially returned to a place where I understand the rules.
And apparently those rules are:
Marry the Russian hockey player.
🇷🇺🏒😮💨
Kat Mizera is my GO-TO when I need a hockey romance, so obviously I was already sitting comfortably.
But then she gave me Viktor Maslak.
A Russian.
A goalie.
A marriage of convenience.
Possessive.
Protective.
And eventually giving very strong:
That’s my wife. Fuck around and find out.
Well.
My grandparents would be so proud.
Look at me embracing my heritage. 🇷🇺😂
This is basically cultural enrichment.
No further questions.
Viktor doesn’t do relationships.
Unfortunately for him, his family has decided he needs a wife.
And rather than deal with his family throwing potential brides at him, this man approaches the situation with the efficiency I would expect from a professional athlete:
He buys one.
ONE YEAR.
TWO MILLION DOLLARS.
NO FEELINGS.
Everybody walks away happy.
Simple.
Except this is a romance novel, Viktor.
You absolute fucking idiot.
😂
Enter Holly.
She’s drowning financially because of circumstances that weren’t even her fault, and Viktor overhears enough to realize they could solve each other’s problems.
She needs money.
He needs a wife.
CONTRACT SIGNED.
Now listen.
I love fake dating.
You guys KNOW I love fake dating.
But fake MARRIAGE???
Oh, inject that shit directly into my veins.
Because fake dating gives us:
“Pretend you like me.”
Fake marriage gives us:
“Hello, this is my WIFE.”
And something about that just hits DIFFERENT.
😮💨
Especially when the man who insisted this was nothing more than a business arrangement starts malfunctioning because apparently his temporary wife is…
Smart.
Beautiful.
Funny.
Loved by his teammates.
Winning over people in his life.
And becoming increasingly impossible for him to imagine losing.
Who could have possibly predicted this???
ME, VIKTOR.
I predicted it immediately.
Because the second a fictional man says:
“No feelings.”
I start the countdown.
Tick.
Tock.
Motherfucker.
You’re about to be OBSESSED.
And watching Viktor slowly realize that this marriage isn’t feeling particularly fake anymore?
DELICIOUS.
Because Holly understands the contract.
She’s preparing herself for the expiration date.
She’s falling for this man while simultaneously reminding herself:
This isn’t forever.
Meanwhile Viktor is basically entering his possessive Russian husband era like:
Expiration date?
What expiration date?
😂
Sir, there is literally paperwork.
And that’s what I loved about their dynamic.
Holly is trying desperately to protect her heart because she knows exactly what she agreed to.
Viktor is slowly discovering that the thought of his wife actually LEAVING HIM at the end of this arrangement is becoming increasingly unacceptable.
Because apparently we went from:
“I need a wife.”
to
“I need THIS wife.”
And THAT is why marriage-of-convenience romances will continue to have me by the throat.
😮💨
But there’s also a lot happening outside their relationship.
Both Holly and Viktor have complicated family dynamics, and this book gave us plenty of:
Drama.
Jealousy.
Betrayal.
Greed.
Family interference.
An ex who apparently doesn’t understand that his subscription has been CANCELED.
And people who seriously underestimate exactly how protective Viktor is going to become over Holly.
Which is always my favorite mistake for side characters to make.
Please.
Threaten his woman.
I would like to see something.
👀
And I really loved Holly.
She’s been dealt such a shitty hand through circumstances outside her control, but she never felt helpless.
She’s trying to rebuild.
Trying to figure out her future.
Trying to navigate this completely insane arrangement without losing herself in it.
And unfortunately for her emotional stability, she has to do all of that while living with a Russian hockey player who is becoming increasingly attached to his fake wife.
Thoughts and prayers, babe.
I’d fold too.
😂
And Viktor???
Скажем так: русский мужчина снова стал моей слабостью.
Let’s just say a Russian man has once again become my weakness.
🇷🇺😮💨
The language differences added such a fun layer to his character, but what really got me was watching the emotional shift happen.
This man enters the arrangement believing relationships are an unnecessary distraction.
Then Holly sneaks into every corner of his life.
His teammates love her.
She becomes part of his world.
His house starts feeling like their home.
And suddenly Mr. “One Year Only” is discovering that perhaps returning his wife at the end of the contractual period is not an acceptable outcome.
HAHAHAHA.
WELCOME TO LOVE, ASSHOLE.
We’ve been expecting you.
😂
And unlike my previous read…
THE BEDROOM DOOR REMAINED OPEN.
THANK YOU, KAT.
I was beginning to worry about myself.
😮💨😂
🏒 Russian Hockey Goalie
💍 Marriage of Convenience
🏒 Fake Relationship
💰 $2 Million Contract
🇷🇺 Russian MMC
🩷 Protective Husband
🏒 Hockey Romance
💍 “No Feelings” — Sure, Babe
🩷 He Falls HARD
🔥 Undeniable Chemistry
🏒 Found Family / Teammates
🩷 Family Drama
🔥 Touch Her & Find Out Energy
💍 Fake Wife → MY WIFE
🩷 Possessive MMC
🔥 Open Door
💍 Contractual Marriage
🩷 HEA
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS
Kat Mizera once again reminded me why she’s one of my favorite authors to reach for when I need a hockey romance.
Because apparently all I really needed was a giant Russian goalie handing a woman a multimillion-dollar marriage contract and confidently believing he could spend an entire year living with her without developing feelings.
Precious.
Absolutely adorable that he thought that.
😂
Viktor:
One year. No feelings. Then she leaves.
Also Viktor approximately five minutes after falling in love:
She was only supposed to be temporary.
But now she’s mine.
THERE HE IS.
😈
That’s the energy I came for.
Five stars.
No notes.
My Russian ancestors are somewhere nodding approvingly while simultaneously wondering why THIS is apparently how I’ve chosen to reconnect with my roots.
Бабушка, не задавай вопросов.
Grandma, don’t ask questions.
🇷🇺😂🏒
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
ONE YEAR.
TWO MILLION DOLLARS.
ONE FAKE RUSSIAN HUSBAND.
Guys.
I have been revived.
We survived the no-spice zone and have officially returned to a place where I understand the rules.
And apparently those rules are:
Marry the Russian hockey player.
🇷🇺🏒😮💨
Kat Mizera is my GO-TO when I need a hockey romance, so obviously I was already sitting comfortably.
But then she gave me Viktor Maslak.
A Russian.
A goalie.
A marriage of convenience.
Possessive.
Protective.
And eventually giving very strong:
That’s my wife. Fuck around and find out.
Well.
My grandparents would be so proud.
Look at me embracing my heritage. 🇷🇺😂
This is basically cultural enrichment.
No further questions.
Viktor doesn’t do relationships.
Unfortunately for him, his family has decided he needs a wife.
And rather than deal with his family throwing potential brides at him, this man approaches the situation with the efficiency I would expect from a professional athlete:
He buys one.
ONE YEAR.
TWO MILLION DOLLARS.
NO FEELINGS.
Everybody walks away happy.
Simple.
Except this is a romance novel, Viktor.
You absolute fucking idiot.
😂
Enter Holly.
She’s drowning financially because of circumstances that weren’t even her fault, and Viktor overhears enough to realize they could solve each other’s problems.
She needs money.
He needs a wife.
CONTRACT SIGNED.
Now listen.
I love fake dating.
You guys KNOW I love fake dating.
But fake MARRIAGE???
Oh, inject that shit directly into my veins.
Because fake dating gives us:
“Pretend you like me.”
Fake marriage gives us:
“Hello, this is my WIFE.”
And something about that just hits DIFFERENT.
😮💨
Especially when the man who insisted this was nothing more than a business arrangement starts malfunctioning because apparently his temporary wife is…
Smart.
Beautiful.
Funny.
Loved by his teammates.
Winning over people in his life.
And becoming increasingly impossible for him to imagine losing.
Who could have possibly predicted this???
ME, VIKTOR.
I predicted it immediately.
Because the second a fictional man says:
“No feelings.”
I start the countdown.
Tick.
Tock.
Motherfucker.
You’re about to be OBSESSED.
And watching Viktor slowly realize that this marriage isn’t feeling particularly fake anymore?
DELICIOUS.
Because Holly understands the contract.
She’s preparing herself for the expiration date.
She’s falling for this man while simultaneously reminding herself:
This isn’t forever.
Meanwhile Viktor is basically entering his possessive Russian husband era like:
Expiration date?
What expiration date?
😂
Sir, there is literally paperwork.
And that’s what I loved about their dynamic.
Holly is trying desperately to protect her heart because she knows exactly what she agreed to.
Viktor is slowly discovering that the thought of his wife actually LEAVING HIM at the end of this arrangement is becoming increasingly unacceptable.
Because apparently we went from:
“I need a wife.”
to
“I need THIS wife.”
And THAT is why marriage-of-convenience romances will continue to have me by the throat.
😮💨
But there’s also a lot happening outside their relationship.
Both Holly and Viktor have complicated family dynamics, and this book gave us plenty of:
Drama.
Jealousy.
Betrayal.
Greed.
Family interference.
An ex who apparently doesn’t understand that his subscription has been CANCELED.
And people who seriously underestimate exactly how protective Viktor is going to become over Holly.
Which is always my favorite mistake for side characters to make.
Please.
Threaten his woman.
I would like to see something.
👀
And I really loved Holly.
She’s been dealt such a shitty hand through circumstances outside her control, but she never felt helpless.
She’s trying to rebuild.
Trying to figure out her future.
Trying to navigate this completely insane arrangement without losing herself in it.
And unfortunately for her emotional stability, she has to do all of that while living with a Russian hockey player who is becoming increasingly attached to his fake wife.
Thoughts and prayers, babe.
I’d fold too.
😂
And Viktor???
Скажем так: русский мужчина снова стал моей слабостью.
Let’s just say a Russian man has once again become my weakness.
🇷🇺😮💨
The language differences added such a fun layer to his character, but what really got me was watching the emotional shift happen.
This man enters the arrangement believing relationships are an unnecessary distraction.
Then Holly sneaks into every corner of his life.
His teammates love her.
She becomes part of his world.
His house starts feeling like their home.
And suddenly Mr. “One Year Only” is discovering that perhaps returning his wife at the end of the contractual period is not an acceptable outcome.
HAHAHAHA.
WELCOME TO LOVE, ASSHOLE.
We’ve been expecting you.
😂
And unlike my previous read…
THE BEDROOM DOOR REMAINED OPEN.
THANK YOU, KAT.
I was beginning to worry about myself.
😮💨😂
🏒 Russian Hockey Goalie
💍 Marriage of Convenience
🏒 Fake Relationship
💰 $2 Million Contract
🇷🇺 Russian MMC
🩷 Protective Husband
🏒 Hockey Romance
💍 “No Feelings” — Sure, Babe
🩷 He Falls HARD
🔥 Undeniable Chemistry
🏒 Found Family / Teammates
🩷 Family Drama
🔥 Touch Her & Find Out Energy
💍 Fake Wife → MY WIFE
🩷 Possessive MMC
🔥 Open Door
💍 Contractual Marriage
🩷 HEA
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS
Kat Mizera once again reminded me why she’s one of my favorite authors to reach for when I need a hockey romance.
Because apparently all I really needed was a giant Russian goalie handing a woman a multimillion-dollar marriage contract and confidently believing he could spend an entire year living with her without developing feelings.
Precious.
Absolutely adorable that he thought that.
😂
Viktor:
One year. No feelings. Then she leaves.
Also Viktor approximately five minutes after falling in love:
She was only supposed to be temporary.
But now she’s mine.
THERE HE IS.
😈
That’s the energy I came for.
Five stars.
No notes.
My Russian ancestors are somewhere nodding approvingly while simultaneously wondering why THIS is apparently how I’ve chosen to reconnect with my roots.
Бабушка, не задавай вопросов.
Grandma, don’t ask questions.
🇷🇺😂🏒
August 1, 2026
SAVING FOREVER is the third instalment in Kat Mizera’s contemporary, adult PUCKS AND PENALTIES erotic, hockey romance series, a spin off from the author’s LA Phantom series. This is twenty-seven year old, Atlanta Thunder, Russian born goalie Viktor Maslak, and twenty-six year old Holly Grant’s story line. SAVING FOREVER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Viktor and Holly) SAVING FOREVER follows the marriage of convenience between our story line couple. Viktor Maslak needs a wife to keep his mother from arranging women to meet as potential wives but when he overhears Holly Grant’s dilemma, Viktor offers up a marriage of convenience, to help them both. A one year contract, a debt of betrayal paid in full, and everyone walks away with their feelings intact but all does not go according to plan, when extended family members refuse to accept their union, and Holly becomes a target of jealousy and greed.
The world building follows several pathways including Holly’s dysfunctional political family who exert their control over their only daughter. Viktor’s Russian family struggle with our hero’s choice for a bride, and betrayal come from outside and within. Accepting her marriage is not forever, Holly looks to a future without the man with whom she is falling in love.
The relationship between Holly and Viktor begins as a marriage of convenience but quickly turns into something more. Holly battles between head and heart believing there is nothing more than friendship between herself and groom, while Viktor struggles to convince himself that he fell in love with our story line heroine. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate.
The secondary and supporting characters are energetic and dynamic including the return of several members of the Atlanta Thunder and their significant others, team management, as well as Holly and Viktor’s immediate families, and Holly’s ex who refuses to let go.
SAVING FOREVER is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, family and relationships, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is emotional and captivating; the romance is edgy; the characters are determined, desperate and charismatic.
copy supplied for review
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Viktor and Holly) SAVING FOREVER follows the marriage of convenience between our story line couple. Viktor Maslak needs a wife to keep his mother from arranging women to meet as potential wives but when he overhears Holly Grant’s dilemma, Viktor offers up a marriage of convenience, to help them both. A one year contract, a debt of betrayal paid in full, and everyone walks away with their feelings intact but all does not go according to plan, when extended family members refuse to accept their union, and Holly becomes a target of jealousy and greed.
The world building follows several pathways including Holly’s dysfunctional political family who exert their control over their only daughter. Viktor’s Russian family struggle with our hero’s choice for a bride, and betrayal come from outside and within. Accepting her marriage is not forever, Holly looks to a future without the man with whom she is falling in love.
The relationship between Holly and Viktor begins as a marriage of convenience but quickly turns into something more. Holly battles between head and heart believing there is nothing more than friendship between herself and groom, while Viktor struggles to convince himself that he fell in love with our story line heroine. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate.
The secondary and supporting characters are energetic and dynamic including the return of several members of the Atlanta Thunder and their significant others, team management, as well as Holly and Viktor’s immediate families, and Holly’s ex who refuses to let go.
SAVING FOREVER is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, family and relationships, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is emotional and captivating; the romance is edgy; the characters are determined, desperate and charismatic.
copy supplied for review
Review of advance copy
Normally I start with a break down of the characters and their story. But this review is different because you need to know from the start that you will need to have enough time allotted to finish the book. I am saying that as a person who made the mistake of starting it late at night and not putting it down until way to early in the morning. So whatever you need to do, do it because this is a page turning, can’t put it down, don’t disturb me kind of book. Oh by the way you will be getting angry at some of the characters in this book while wanting to adopt a certain one. I love Kat Mizera’s books, always have, but this one I can honestly say is one of my favorites and has been placed in the top 5 of this year.
Holly was put into a horrible situation, she had borrowed money from people you don’t want to borrow money from because her douche ex-fiancée had deleted her trust fund. If she didn’t come up with the money, then she would lose the house and the bird sanctuary that her grandmother had left her. By chance or fate or whatever you want to call it, Viktor stumbled across, and a solution was made. His parents, including his meddling mother, were arriving soon from Russia and he needed a break from her. He offered 2 million dollars for a 1 year marriage contract. When the time was up, they could walk away from each other. There was just one slight teensy wincey problem…. Holly and Viktor were falling in love with each other. They each had to figure out how to tell the other one without causing more problem than solution. Is it possible for an “arranged” marriage to turn into one of love and respect? It also didn’t help that Holly’s father was a Senator who kept trying to get the property and would do anything in order to do so.
Holly’s father and douche ex-fiancee those two characters ticked me off big time. But at the same time I totally and completely fell in love with Viktor’s dad Popa. He might have seemed like this rough Russian man but he was a big soft teddy bear who knew the right words and did the right things for his son, for his daughter-in-law and a peacock called Priscilla
Thanks to Wildfire Marketing and the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Holly was put into a horrible situation, she had borrowed money from people you don’t want to borrow money from because her douche ex-fiancée had deleted her trust fund. If she didn’t come up with the money, then she would lose the house and the bird sanctuary that her grandmother had left her. By chance or fate or whatever you want to call it, Viktor stumbled across, and a solution was made. His parents, including his meddling mother, were arriving soon from Russia and he needed a break from her. He offered 2 million dollars for a 1 year marriage contract. When the time was up, they could walk away from each other. There was just one slight teensy wincey problem…. Holly and Viktor were falling in love with each other. They each had to figure out how to tell the other one without causing more problem than solution. Is it possible for an “arranged” marriage to turn into one of love and respect? It also didn’t help that Holly’s father was a Senator who kept trying to get the property and would do anything in order to do so.
Holly’s father and douche ex-fiancee those two characters ticked me off big time. But at the same time I totally and completely fell in love with Viktor’s dad Popa. He might have seemed like this rough Russian man but he was a big soft teddy bear who knew the right words and did the right things for his son, for his daughter-in-law and a peacock called Priscilla
Thanks to Wildfire Marketing and the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 30, 2026
Chemistry, banter & spice
SAVING FOREVER is another fabulous adddition to Kat Mizera's Pucks & Penalties series. This marriage of convenience, he falls first, possessive hero, hockey romance had humour, emotions, drama, and spice, just how I love my books. It was easy to devour as the writing was flawless and flowed effortlessly.
Holly Grant is in financial trouble. Her ex-fiance robbed her of her trust fund so she borrowed money through a loan shark to continue maintaining the bird sanctuary she inherited from her grandmother. The loan shark wants his payment and Holly is broke. Viktor Maslak is the goalie for the NHL team Atlanta Thunder. He has an interferring Russian mother who wants to see her son marry a Russian bride, even though he's not looking for a relationship. Learning of Holly's circumstances and knowing his own, Viktor comes up with a plan which will benefit both of them ... a marriage of convenience. He offers Holly two million dollars, one million to be paid when they marriage and the other for when the marriage of one year is over.
Holly and Viktor had incredible chemistry, wonderful banter (even when he stuggled with his English), and their spice was red hot. Feelings grow and deepen, but lack of communication doesn't help their situation. I loved that they sought help and advice from theiur friends. They needed to be together, and I cheered every step of their journey. It takes a disaster for them to discover the miscommunication which has happened between them, open honesty has finally found a way.
Kat Mizera always delivers stories with the perfect balance of emotion, humour, and drama, along with completely relatable characters. Naturally there are a couple of villains, and they really are nasty pieces of work. SAVING FOREVER was a terrific and unputdownable read.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ 5 STARS
SAVING FOREVER is another fabulous adddition to Kat Mizera's Pucks & Penalties series. This marriage of convenience, he falls first, possessive hero, hockey romance had humour, emotions, drama, and spice, just how I love my books. It was easy to devour as the writing was flawless and flowed effortlessly.
Holly Grant is in financial trouble. Her ex-fiance robbed her of her trust fund so she borrowed money through a loan shark to continue maintaining the bird sanctuary she inherited from her grandmother. The loan shark wants his payment and Holly is broke. Viktor Maslak is the goalie for the NHL team Atlanta Thunder. He has an interferring Russian mother who wants to see her son marry a Russian bride, even though he's not looking for a relationship. Learning of Holly's circumstances and knowing his own, Viktor comes up with a plan which will benefit both of them ... a marriage of convenience. He offers Holly two million dollars, one million to be paid when they marriage and the other for when the marriage of one year is over.
Holly and Viktor had incredible chemistry, wonderful banter (even when he stuggled with his English), and their spice was red hot. Feelings grow and deepen, but lack of communication doesn't help their situation. I loved that they sought help and advice from theiur friends. They needed to be together, and I cheered every step of their journey. It takes a disaster for them to discover the miscommunication which has happened between them, open honesty has finally found a way.
Kat Mizera always delivers stories with the perfect balance of emotion, humour, and drama, along with completely relatable characters. Naturally there are a couple of villains, and they really are nasty pieces of work. SAVING FOREVER was a terrific and unputdownable read.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ 5 STARS
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Kat Mizera couldn’t have chosen a more perfect couple to take centre ice in Saving Forever, the mesmerising third book in her Pucks & Penalties series. Every time I think this series can’t get any better, she proves me wrong, delivering another romance packed with heart, humour, family drama, sizzling chemistry, and plenty of hockey action.
Viktor is impossible not to fall for. The golden retriever Russian hockey star is equal parts sweet, protective, and utterly swoon-worthy. His occasionally muddled English only makes him more endearing—although there is absolutely nothing lost in translation when it comes to his bedroom confidence! Beneath his playful charm is a man caught between following his own heart and meeting the expectations of his mother, who is determined to see her son marry a nice Russian girl and return home.
Enter Holly.
Needing money to help keep her beloved grandmother’s left bird sanctuary openHolly agrees to an arrangement that seems too good to pass up. Viktor needs a wife to keep his mother off his back, Holly needs financial help, and a one-year marriage of convenience seems like the perfect solution. Simple… except neither of them expected the sparks to fly quite so fiercely.
As their fake marriage turns into something much more real, their connection leaps from the pages. Their chemistry is electric, their banter is effortless, and every stolen glance and lingering touch makes it impossible not to root for them. Add in the wonderful hockey family, teammates and their partners, plenty of emotional moments, and just the right amount of drama, and this story becomes completely addictive.
Kat Mizera once again balances laugh-out-loud moments with heartfelt emotion, creating characters who feel genuine and a romance that is impossible not to believe in. Viktor and Holly are simply made for each other, and watching them discover that love can grow from the most unexpected arrangement was an absolute joy.
Saving Forever is another winning addition to the Pucks & Penalties series and a must-read for anyone who loves hockey romance, fake marriage, found family, irresistible heroes, and all the swoon-worthy feels. I couldn’t put it down.
Viktor is impossible not to fall for. The golden retriever Russian hockey star is equal parts sweet, protective, and utterly swoon-worthy. His occasionally muddled English only makes him more endearing—although there is absolutely nothing lost in translation when it comes to his bedroom confidence! Beneath his playful charm is a man caught between following his own heart and meeting the expectations of his mother, who is determined to see her son marry a nice Russian girl and return home.
Enter Holly.
Needing money to help keep her beloved grandmother’s left bird sanctuary openHolly agrees to an arrangement that seems too good to pass up. Viktor needs a wife to keep his mother off his back, Holly needs financial help, and a one-year marriage of convenience seems like the perfect solution. Simple… except neither of them expected the sparks to fly quite so fiercely.
As their fake marriage turns into something much more real, their connection leaps from the pages. Their chemistry is electric, their banter is effortless, and every stolen glance and lingering touch makes it impossible not to root for them. Add in the wonderful hockey family, teammates and their partners, plenty of emotional moments, and just the right amount of drama, and this story becomes completely addictive.
Kat Mizera once again balances laugh-out-loud moments with heartfelt emotion, creating characters who feel genuine and a romance that is impossible not to believe in. Viktor and Holly are simply made for each other, and watching them discover that love can grow from the most unexpected arrangement was an absolute joy.
Saving Forever is another winning addition to the Pucks & Penalties series and a must-read for anyone who loves hockey romance, fake marriage, found family, irresistible heroes, and all the swoon-worthy feels. I couldn’t put it down.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Oh my goodness I loved reading this book.
Everything was perfect and a little bit frustrating but such a compelling romance.
Holly needs money to save her grandmothers house and bird sanctuary.
Viktor is a Russian Hockey player and partially deaf needs a wife,because his mother won't stop harassing him about marriage.
So they enter an arrangement that will benefit them both..But you guessed it they slowly fall in Love with eachother as time goes by.
Of course they try to deny it and ignore it which is the frustrating part...BUt their chemistry is too strong.They are so Hot together.
Kat Mizera never seems to fail to bring you stories that will have you smitten from the start right until the end.
Saving Forever does exactly that has you captivated.
I enjoyed this book very much.
Excellent 5 Stars.- Cat W.
Saving Forever by Kat Mizera was absolutely fantastic!!! I was not expecting what I read, and man, I loved every minute of this book. I have enjoyed this series and devoured each book, and this book was no different. I love a good sports romance, and this book had the added marriage of convenience, a little mystery, and betrayal(not by either MC’s), some strong angst and tension, and ohhhh the spice was on point for Holly and Viktor. I went through several emotions while reading this book; heartbreak and anger were at the top of my feelings, but the retribution and loyalty had me fist-pumping several times. The characters were very opposite of each other, but the chemistry between them was perfectly paced and the best slow-burn romance I have read in a while. I thought the storyline was original and page-turning, and it kept me intrigued about what would happen next. Let me tell you, the nail-biting I did throughout this book was intense. I love Kat Mizera’s writing style; she is creative and has created a wonderful hockey series that I am obsessed with. I can’t wait to see what comes next from this author.-By Brooke
Everything was perfect and a little bit frustrating but such a compelling romance.
Holly needs money to save her grandmothers house and bird sanctuary.
Viktor is a Russian Hockey player and partially deaf needs a wife,because his mother won't stop harassing him about marriage.
So they enter an arrangement that will benefit them both..But you guessed it they slowly fall in Love with eachother as time goes by.
Of course they try to deny it and ignore it which is the frustrating part...BUt their chemistry is too strong.They are so Hot together.
Kat Mizera never seems to fail to bring you stories that will have you smitten from the start right until the end.
Saving Forever does exactly that has you captivated.
I enjoyed this book very much.
Excellent 5 Stars.- Cat W.
Saving Forever by Kat Mizera was absolutely fantastic!!! I was not expecting what I read, and man, I loved every minute of this book. I have enjoyed this series and devoured each book, and this book was no different. I love a good sports romance, and this book had the added marriage of convenience, a little mystery, and betrayal(not by either MC’s), some strong angst and tension, and ohhhh the spice was on point for Holly and Viktor. I went through several emotions while reading this book; heartbreak and anger were at the top of my feelings, but the retribution and loyalty had me fist-pumping several times. The characters were very opposite of each other, but the chemistry between them was perfectly paced and the best slow-burn romance I have read in a while. I thought the storyline was original and page-turning, and it kept me intrigued about what would happen next. Let me tell you, the nail-biting I did throughout this book was intense. I love Kat Mizera’s writing style; she is creative and has created a wonderful hockey series that I am obsessed with. I can’t wait to see what comes next from this author.-By Brooke
July 30, 2026
I currently own 74 of Kat's books that I purchased before I was fortunate enough to become an ARC reviewer. Saving Forever easily fits in my top 5.
This was a story that appeared exactly when I needed it to appear. It is complex, humorous, stressful, and charming all at the same time. It was also good treadmill walking reading. It kept my mind of the time. As in, I finished the book and 5 miles.
The story is a network of plots that are seamlessly integrated. The protagonists are Victor, a Russian goalie with language challenges, and Holly, a woman who has jettisoned a fiancé with character flaws that have you considering a duct tape solution. The language barriers resonate with me. Sometimes, what is said isn’t what is meant.
The story starts with eavesdropping on a phone call and leads to a strategic alliance between Victor and Holly. I wouldn't call it an arranged marriage because it has an exit date. Families being what they are, Victor and Holly didn't win the lottery. Her father is a self-entitled prat; his mother raises meddling to a whole new level. Victor’s father is an absolute gem (he reminds me of my late father-in-law).
If you have read the Alaska Blizzard series, Gage is back to work his magic and put her father on his back foot. I do like a good plot twist.
Overall, I would give this book 10 stars out of 5. If this is your first book from Kat, I would recommend that you find the Alaska Blizzards series.
This was a story that appeared exactly when I needed it to appear. It is complex, humorous, stressful, and charming all at the same time. It was also good treadmill walking reading. It kept my mind of the time. As in, I finished the book and 5 miles.
The story is a network of plots that are seamlessly integrated. The protagonists are Victor, a Russian goalie with language challenges, and Holly, a woman who has jettisoned a fiancé with character flaws that have you considering a duct tape solution. The language barriers resonate with me. Sometimes, what is said isn’t what is meant.
The story starts with eavesdropping on a phone call and leads to a strategic alliance between Victor and Holly. I wouldn't call it an arranged marriage because it has an exit date. Families being what they are, Victor and Holly didn't win the lottery. Her father is a self-entitled prat; his mother raises meddling to a whole new level. Victor’s father is an absolute gem (he reminds me of my late father-in-law).
If you have read the Alaska Blizzard series, Gage is back to work his magic and put her father on his back foot. I do like a good plot twist.
Overall, I would give this book 10 stars out of 5. If this is your first book from Kat, I would recommend that you find the Alaska Blizzards series.
July 30, 2026
This is my first read by this author, and I enjoyed the premise of the story. The FMC, Holly is a state senator's daughter who's trying to break free of her dad's controlling nature. Viktor is a professional hockey player on Atlanta's new expansion team and still learning the language after moving from Russia ten years ago. In spite of the language issue, Viktor is incredibly sweet, responsible and smart in his goal to protect Holly from her family and her conniving ex-boyfriend. The arranged marriage agreement between them holds mutual benefits for both, and it doesn't take long before emotions and feelings start weaving into their "business contract." Viktor and his team are close to making it to the Stanley Cup so they mutually agree his focus should be on hockey first. For the first time, Holly finally has someone willing to protect her, and the more it happens, the more scared she becomes that after the agreed upon year, her heart will be broken. Viktor is all in with Holly, but she seems to want to maintain a careful distance.
There were moments in the story where Viktor struggled with verbalizing his thoughts out loud. Then there were times, his thoughts came out clearly "articulated", only to realize it was because those were "in his head" and not said aloud. I really liked both characters individually and also cheered them on as a couple trying to figure out if the deep seated feelings both experienced was love.
There were moments in the story where Viktor struggled with verbalizing his thoughts out loud. Then there were times, his thoughts came out clearly "articulated", only to realize it was because those were "in his head" and not said aloud. I really liked both characters individually and also cheered them on as a couple trying to figure out if the deep seated feelings both experienced was love.
August 6, 2026
Holly Grant finds herself in a tough position when she borrows money from a loan shark to keep the bird sanctuary her grandmother had left her going after her ex lost all the money in her trust fund. Viktor is the goalie for the Atlanta Thunder. Viktor overhears the end of Holly's phone conversation about her debt and wants to help when she starts crying. Viktor comes up with a plan that will help them both. They will get married for one year. He will pay Holly 1 million up front to take care of her debt and another million when the marriage is over. He will have a wife, so his mother can stop trying to set him up with a Russian bride. It is a win-win situation for both. What happens when feelings start to develop between Viktor and Holly? Will Viktor and Holly be able to keep their hands off each other? Will miscommunication lead to breaking up Viktor and Holly? Who does Viktor reach out to help save Holly's grandmother's house and sanctuary? I LOVED Saving Forever by Kat Mizera! Viktor and Holly are a great couple with amazing chemistry. Better communication would have solved a lot. I loved Viktor's Dad! He is a sweetheart. Absolutely hated Holly's dad and ex. I would highly recommend getting Saving Forever and the other books in the Pucks & Penalties series by Kat Mizera. I received a free copy of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review for Saving Forever
Advance Reader Copy provided by author
I trust this author, and have enjoyed her books that I have read (so many more to explore!). However, I’m not a big fan of this particular trope of an arranged marriage. They have always sounded very implausible, and I have never encountered a fake marriage with any of my friends in my own life, BUT this is where a gifted writer like Kat comes in to play. This is an absolute gem of a book and she makes every part seamless! Grumpy goalies are definitely a trope - add a grumpy Russian goalie to the mix with a language barrier as well as a cultural barrier? Pure chemistry. I love these characters. I love seeing them struggle and finding a way through advice from their friends to work out their differences. I am also a big bird enthusiast and enjoyed reading the parts describing the wonderful birds in this book (albino peacocks!) and who doesn’t love parents acting badly tropes. This is definitely an HEA and I really enjoyed this book a lot - I carted it around with me even when I didn’t have time to read because it was so easy to fall in love with it. There are great descriptions of hockey games as always, and this one was really impressive. Enjoy!
Advance Reader Copy provided by author
I trust this author, and have enjoyed her books that I have read (so many more to explore!). However, I’m not a big fan of this particular trope of an arranged marriage. They have always sounded very implausible, and I have never encountered a fake marriage with any of my friends in my own life, BUT this is where a gifted writer like Kat comes in to play. This is an absolute gem of a book and she makes every part seamless! Grumpy goalies are definitely a trope - add a grumpy Russian goalie to the mix with a language barrier as well as a cultural barrier? Pure chemistry. I love these characters. I love seeing them struggle and finding a way through advice from their friends to work out their differences. I am also a big bird enthusiast and enjoyed reading the parts describing the wonderful birds in this book (albino peacocks!) and who doesn’t love parents acting badly tropes. This is definitely an HEA and I really enjoyed this book a lot - I carted it around with me even when I didn’t have time to read because it was so easy to fall in love with it. There are great descriptions of hockey games as always, and this one was really impressive. Enjoy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Saving Forever is daughter of US Senator Holly Grant and NHL goalie Viktor Maslak’s entertaining and captivating marriage of convenience, fake to real love story. It’s book three in the Pucks & Penalties Series and I loved everything about it, I was drawn in from the first chapter and there was no putting down until the final word was read.
Holly has broken up with her fiancé after he stole her trust fund but her father is determined for her to stay with him. The most important thing on her mind is how she will keep the bird sanctuary her grandmother left her running without any money while her father is determined to buy the land out from under her……..
Viktor stumbles across Holly when she is at her lowest when he sees her crying in a hallway. When he stops to see what is wrong he comes up with a crazy solution to help her out and to get his mother off his back. A marriage of convenience could be just what they both need.
What follows is two people finding feelings when they least expected to. It’s a journey about trust, taking chances and becoming strong together and never giving up. I fell hard and fast for Viktor and I adored Holly, I smiled and I swooned as I found myself cheering this couple on.
Holly has broken up with her fiancé after he stole her trust fund but her father is determined for her to stay with him. The most important thing on her mind is how she will keep the bird sanctuary her grandmother left her running without any money while her father is determined to buy the land out from under her……..
Viktor stumbles across Holly when she is at her lowest when he sees her crying in a hallway. When he stops to see what is wrong he comes up with a crazy solution to help her out and to get his mother off his back. A marriage of convenience could be just what they both need.
What follows is two people finding feelings when they least expected to. It’s a journey about trust, taking chances and becoming strong together and never giving up. I fell hard and fast for Viktor and I adored Holly, I smiled and I swooned as I found myself cheering this couple on.
August 4, 2026
Saving Forever is an engaging, swoony read
Saving Forever is a fun, heartfelt addition to the Pucks & Penalties series that delivers exactly what I was hoping for from a fake marriage hockey romance. The premise of a professional hockey player paying for a one-year, two-million-dollar fake wife to satisfy his family sounds straightforward enough, but Kat Mizera quickly layers in plenty of chemistry, emotional tension, and genuine character growth.
Watching the hero go from someone who insists he doesn't do relationships to someone who can't imagine letting his temporary wife go was both entertaining and satisfying. Their banter felt natural, the romance was smoldering, and the found-family vibe with his teammates and family added warmth to the story.
While I enjoyed the romance and emotional aspect, there were a few moments where I wished some of the conflicts had been explored a little more deeply. Even so, the characters were engaging, the chemistry was undeniable, and the possessive, protective hero made for a compelling love interest without overshadowing the heroine's strength and personality. If you're a fan of fake marriage, professional hockey romances, and stories where "no feelings" quickly becomes "forever," Saving Forever is absolutely the one for you.
Saving Forever is a fun, heartfelt addition to the Pucks & Penalties series that delivers exactly what I was hoping for from a fake marriage hockey romance. The premise of a professional hockey player paying for a one-year, two-million-dollar fake wife to satisfy his family sounds straightforward enough, but Kat Mizera quickly layers in plenty of chemistry, emotional tension, and genuine character growth.
Watching the hero go from someone who insists he doesn't do relationships to someone who can't imagine letting his temporary wife go was both entertaining and satisfying. Their banter felt natural, the romance was smoldering, and the found-family vibe with his teammates and family added warmth to the story.
While I enjoyed the romance and emotional aspect, there were a few moments where I wished some of the conflicts had been explored a little more deeply. Even so, the characters were engaging, the chemistry was undeniable, and the possessive, protective hero made for a compelling love interest without overshadowing the heroine's strength and personality. If you're a fan of fake marriage, professional hockey romances, and stories where "no feelings" quickly becomes "forever," Saving Forever is absolutely the one for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Saving Forever was beautifully written. Viktor and Holly story was absolutely brilliant. I honestly couldn’t put this down. Holly and Viktor enter their relationship with two things in mind. Viktor needs a wife so his meddling mother stops interfering in his love life. Holly needs help to survive her grandmother farm house and her bird sanctuary. That mean the world to her since her grandmother left it to her. When they enter this agreement it’s go be simply platonic. But nothing ever goes how it’s supposed to go. Viktor is such a gentleman being the best husband and being there for Holly for anything she needs. Holly is being the best wife and support Viktor in his quest in winning the championship. It’s great to see how these two interact especially with the language barrier. When the relationship becomes more, it’s absolutely impossible not to root for them. The connection these two share is absolutely amazing and the chemistry is unbelievable. This had it all, great friends, love, laughs, hockey and so much more. I absolutely loved every moment of this incredible story.
Arc provided for honest review.
Arc provided for honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have missed Kat’s Russian hockey players, nobody writes them quite like she does! And Viktor is such a sweetheart, he’s a bit oblivious of matters of the heart, pragmatic, a bit withdrawn and super cute when he speaks English. One can’t help but adore him.
He jumps headfirst into a fake marriage with Holly thinking they could both benefit and solve some practical meddling parents problems in their lives, without really noticing there’s a connection there right from the start.
Holly tries as much as she can to protect her heart from their imminent breakup when their arrangement is over, but Viktor is so sweet, attentive, kind and supportive even when he doesn’t need to be that she unavoidably falls in love.
Together they have to navigate through many obstacles, disapproving parents, hockey life, growing feelings and an uncertain future as their hearts get more and more involved.
I loved them together so much, this story was so beautiful,sweet with a nice touch of spice and a very satisfying HEA.
I have received an ARC of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
3🌶️/5⭐️
He jumps headfirst into a fake marriage with Holly thinking they could both benefit and solve some practical meddling parents problems in their lives, without really noticing there’s a connection there right from the start.
Holly tries as much as she can to protect her heart from their imminent breakup when their arrangement is over, but Viktor is so sweet, attentive, kind and supportive even when he doesn’t need to be that she unavoidably falls in love.
Together they have to navigate through many obstacles, disapproving parents, hockey life, growing feelings and an uncertain future as their hearts get more and more involved.
I loved them together so much, this story was so beautiful,sweet with a nice touch of spice and a very satisfying HEA.
I have received an ARC of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
3🌶️/5⭐️
Review of advance copy
Pucks & Penalties #3
I enjoyed this book so much. Once you start you don't want to put it down. And be sure you have kleenex close by.
Holly Grant, 26 is the daughter of a US Senator but their relationship is not close. She broke up with her fiance after finding out he stole her trust fund money and other things he did. Her Grandmother left her a house and a bird sanctuary that meant everything to her but without her money she's not sure what she will do. She borrowed money from the wrong people and now has to pay it back or else.
Viktor Maslak, 27 is the starting goalie for the Atlanta Thunder. When he sees Holly in the hallway crying he stops to find out why and comes up with a solution. They marry for a year and he pays her 2 million and when the time is up they can walk away from each other. After being left at the altar last year his mom is determined to find him a Russian wife and if he's already married she can't. So this solution works for both of them, or does it?
What happens if feelings get involved? There's a lot of miscommunication and obstacles to work around.
5 stars
I enjoyed this book so much. Once you start you don't want to put it down. And be sure you have kleenex close by.
Holly Grant, 26 is the daughter of a US Senator but their relationship is not close. She broke up with her fiance after finding out he stole her trust fund money and other things he did. Her Grandmother left her a house and a bird sanctuary that meant everything to her but without her money she's not sure what she will do. She borrowed money from the wrong people and now has to pay it back or else.
Viktor Maslak, 27 is the starting goalie for the Atlanta Thunder. When he sees Holly in the hallway crying he stops to find out why and comes up with a solution. They marry for a year and he pays her 2 million and when the time is up they can walk away from each other. After being left at the altar last year his mom is determined to find him a Russian wife and if he's already married she can't. So this solution works for both of them, or does it?
What happens if feelings get involved? There's a lot of miscommunication and obstacles to work around.
5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Author
Holly and Viktor are a couple that no one saw coming. What could go wrong with a arranged marriage falling in love is not something that either one expected. Holly was put into a horrible position by her ex fiancé and had to borrow money from some horrible people. She needed the money to save her house and bird sanctuary that her grandmother left her. Some how Viktor becomes aware the situation and comes into save the day with the idea of them becoming a couple and getting married. While helping her with her debt by offering her money to marry him for 1 year he also gets the benefit of making his mother happy and stops her from trying to marry him off. While they were trying to figure out how to make their marriage look real they started to fall in love with one another. That made trying to tell one another that their feelings had changed harder because neither one know how to tell the other. Watching Holly's father (who was a senator) and ex try to repeatly get her property made me furious that they just wouldn't go away. Watching this story unroll made me not want to put down the book.
August 1, 2026
Saving Forever was such a fun addition to the Pucks & Penalties series, Kat Mizera really knows how to write hockey romance that feels warm and character-driven instead of just surface-level sporty fluff. The chemistry between the leads had that easy banter-meets-real-tension thing going that she does so well, and I loved how grounded the emotional stuff felt even with all the on-ice drama happening around them.
What I appreciate most about her books is that the heroines always feel like real people, flaws and all, instead of just a type, and this one was no different. Watching the leads navigate their own baggage while falling for each other made the romance feel earned rather than rushed.
The hockey world building is always a highlight in these books too, you get just enough of the sport and team dynamics to feel immersed without it overtaking the actual love story.
Only reason it's not a full 5 is a little pacing dip for me in the middle before things really picked back up. But overall such a sweet, steamy, easy read, and a solid entry in the series. If you've liked the Pucks & Penalties books so far, this one's worth picking up.
What I appreciate most about her books is that the heroines always feel like real people, flaws and all, instead of just a type, and this one was no different. Watching the leads navigate their own baggage while falling for each other made the romance feel earned rather than rushed.
The hockey world building is always a highlight in these books too, you get just enough of the sport and team dynamics to feel immersed without it overtaking the actual love story.
Only reason it's not a full 5 is a little pacing dip for me in the middle before things really picked back up. But overall such a sweet, steamy, easy read, and a solid entry in the series. If you've liked the Pucks & Penalties books so far, this one's worth picking up.
August 3, 2026
*5 stars*
This story took my heart by storm little by little and piece by piece. This one's definitely got me enthralled from beginning until end and was exactly what I needed. There was drama but also a love that unfolded throughout the story which was both adorable and loving. I truly enjoyed the spark and chemistry between Victor & Holly. There was just something about them that made you root for them to the end but there was also something endearing about Victor. Definitely a favorite of this year!
Holly is desperate and at the end of her wits as her ex did a number on her. She's trying everything she can to keep her head above water while hopefully save the sanctuary she's loved for years. When Victor sees the hurt Holly is carrying, he suggest her something that would work for both of them. As they are navigating through their new life together, there's still a language barrier between them but they are trying to figure out while also forming a bond throughout their relationship even though it's not easy with both their families. Slowly their feelings are growing stronger but will it be enough in the end...
This story took my heart by storm little by little and piece by piece. This one's definitely got me enthralled from beginning until end and was exactly what I needed. There was drama but also a love that unfolded throughout the story which was both adorable and loving. I truly enjoyed the spark and chemistry between Victor & Holly. There was just something about them that made you root for them to the end but there was also something endearing about Victor. Definitely a favorite of this year!
Holly is desperate and at the end of her wits as her ex did a number on her. She's trying everything she can to keep her head above water while hopefully save the sanctuary she's loved for years. When Victor sees the hurt Holly is carrying, he suggest her something that would work for both of them. As they are navigating through their new life together, there's still a language barrier between them but they are trying to figure out while also forming a bond throughout their relationship even though it's not easy with both their families. Slowly their feelings are growing stronger but will it be enough in the end...
July 31, 2026
I wasn’t prepared for this book. I didn’t want to put it down. Viktor is a Russian white knight who overhears Holly on the phone and her situation sounds bad. He is tired of his mom setting up marriages only to be embarrassed when they fall through. Holly’s ex stole her money and she went to a loan shark, who wants his money back now. Viktor steps in and offers her two million dollars, one million now and one million after a year of marriage, taking care of both of their problems, for a year anyway.
From their wedding night, when they were sweetly uncomfortable to the very end you could see the connection they had. I loved how protective he was of her and how he realized early on that his feelings were different than what he expected. It also seemed, to me anyway, that she wasn’t used to being treated the way he treated her. There were obstacles that they had to overcome, mainly her family and the questions of their relationship being real or not.
You won’t be able to put this book down, I know I couldn’t. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
From their wedding night, when they were sweetly uncomfortable to the very end you could see the connection they had. I loved how protective he was of her and how he realized early on that his feelings were different than what he expected. It also seemed, to me anyway, that she wasn’t used to being treated the way he treated her. There were obstacles that they had to overcome, mainly her family and the questions of their relationship being real or not.
You won’t be able to put this book down, I know I couldn’t. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
August 2, 2026
After trusting the wrong person Holly finds herself in a desperate situation where she now owes money to the wrong people. She could lose what is most important to her and if that isn’t enough rather than her powerful father helping her he is working against her. Not sure what to do next Viktor offers her a lifeline in the form of a marriage of convenience that includes a timeline.
Viktor is the Russian goalie for Atlanta Thunder who is happy being single however his mother doesn’t share those feelings. He knows that when his parents come to town he is going to be bombarded with matchmaking attempts to who they believe will be an appropriate bride so when he learns about Holly’s situation a temporary marriage with clear rules that doesn’t include emotions seems like a win-win.
Neither Holly nor Viktor were looking for love however the more time they spend together the more intense the chemistry and connection between them becomes. The interactions between them are entertaining however not even the turmoil is enough to divide two people who are meant to be together.
Viktor is the Russian goalie for Atlanta Thunder who is happy being single however his mother doesn’t share those feelings. He knows that when his parents come to town he is going to be bombarded with matchmaking attempts to who they believe will be an appropriate bride so when he learns about Holly’s situation a temporary marriage with clear rules that doesn’t include emotions seems like a win-win.
Neither Holly nor Viktor were looking for love however the more time they spend together the more intense the chemistry and connection between them becomes. The interactions between them are entertaining however not even the turmoil is enough to divide two people who are meant to be together.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had my heart from the first. We had met Viktor before when he played for the Alaska Blizzard and then with the Atlanta expansion team. He is a great guy who struggles at times with his English but he is very genuine. So it’s no surprise he wanted to help Holly. Holly is feeling conflicted and confused, it doesn’t help that Viiktor wants to take care of her, one thing is certain, she loves her bird sanctuary and her grandmothers house. She will do almost anything to maintain the sanctuary. As they start to develop feeling and become intimate the lines blurr and thing get complicated. Viktor’s and Holly’s parents are making everything more difficult. However you can’t help put love Viktor’s dad and how he takes to Holly and the bird sanctuary. My heart breaks when the sanctuary is attacked, Holly is wrecked and her heart is broken in more ways than one. I really love these two together and love that they end up out smarting her father.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This review is a little harder for me to write than normal. Whereas I loved the characters and the storyline. Some things also didn’t quite hit for me.
I love Viktor and how he tried even when it was hard, and this couple had some hardships. There was family drama, a language barrier, and some cultural differences that made things difficult at times for Viktor and Holly. Holly is really just trying to rebuild her life and survive. Her dad has tried to control her life, and she recently got out of a relationship where he stole from her and lied. They both have things they want fixed or a break from, and this is where their arrangement comes to life.
I loved their story, and it kept my attention from the beginning, but I also felt it was a little rushed, especially at the end. I wish we got a little more communication from them at the end and a little more of a look into their future. Overall, though, this was a great book, and I would definitely recommend it.
I love Viktor and how he tried even when it was hard, and this couple had some hardships. There was family drama, a language barrier, and some cultural differences that made things difficult at times for Viktor and Holly. Holly is really just trying to rebuild her life and survive. Her dad has tried to control her life, and she recently got out of a relationship where he stole from her and lied. They both have things they want fixed or a break from, and this is where their arrangement comes to life.
I loved their story, and it kept my attention from the beginning, but I also felt it was a little rushed, especially at the end. I wish we got a little more communication from them at the end and a little more of a look into their future. Overall, though, this was a great book, and I would definitely recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
5 Stars
“HOTlanta” is definitely what this series should be nicknamed…
And this time it’s Viktor and Holly who make it this way! The stoic Russian goalkeeper may have a bit of a language barrier at times but while some things may get lost in translation, other things are understandable no matter what the language. There is no doubt this couple is passionate, though they fight it due to their unconventional start, but the emotions that exist between Viktor and Holly are strong, deep and pure. Readers will fall completely head over heels for this man who truly will do anything for the woman who is his wife, and will adore the woman who cannot resist falling for her husband, even though she has been hurt by the men previously (and even currently in some cases) in her life. Another fantastic book in the Pucks and Penalties series, I look forward Scoring Destiny next!
Cara - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
“HOTlanta” is definitely what this series should be nicknamed…
And this time it’s Viktor and Holly who make it this way! The stoic Russian goalkeeper may have a bit of a language barrier at times but while some things may get lost in translation, other things are understandable no matter what the language. There is no doubt this couple is passionate, though they fight it due to their unconventional start, but the emotions that exist between Viktor and Holly are strong, deep and pure. Readers will fall completely head over heels for this man who truly will do anything for the woman who is his wife, and will adore the woman who cannot resist falling for her husband, even though she has been hurt by the men previously (and even currently in some cases) in her life. Another fantastic book in the Pucks and Penalties series, I look forward Scoring Destiny next!
Cara - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
July 30, 2026
Sweet, sincere and utterly delightful! The next book in Kat Mizera's Pucks & Penalties hockey series is a really fun one! We've seen Viktor a smidge in both of the previous books in the series that centered around West and Bodi finding their true loves and now it's his turn ... but in a very unconventional way. He needs to get his matchmaking mother off his back and Holly needs rescuing from a loan shark. What could go wrong right? The characters are both really sweet and easy to like, they each have family oriented back stories and they simply fit really well as they mesh their lives together. Their story is well developed and even had me falling for his fam in the end. I highly recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone who enjoys a hockey series with teammates that not only are friends, but also roomies and great support systems in life. I'm looking forward to more to come!
July 30, 2026
This book has been a delight to read. I have long wanted Viktor to find his HEA, and in Saving Forever, he finds it in a most unconventional way, though not necessarily in the romance world 😍. Holly has been used by her horrible ex-fiance, and I'd now facing financial ruin and potential danger. In strides our beloved goalie with a proposition that will save them both. From necessity to friendship, to attraction to love! Perfect.
There is a great cast of characters, all fabulous with a few notable exceptions. Although Viktors mother holds strong opinions on who he should marry, Holly really is the right one for him. His kindness and thoughtfulness needs a person with a similar character, and that is Holly. I loved the bird sanctuary, the story of love found in unexpected circumstances, the team of friends surrounding both MMCs and the satisfaction of seeing comeuppances delivered! Lovely, engaging read. 💖💖💖💖💖
There is a great cast of characters, all fabulous with a few notable exceptions. Although Viktors mother holds strong opinions on who he should marry, Holly really is the right one for him. His kindness and thoughtfulness needs a person with a similar character, and that is Holly. I loved the bird sanctuary, the story of love found in unexpected circumstances, the team of friends surrounding both MMCs and the satisfaction of seeing comeuppances delivered! Lovely, engaging read. 💖💖💖💖💖
July 30, 2026
This book has been a delight to read. I have long wanted Viktor to find his HEA, and in Saving Forever, he finds it in a most unconventional way, though not necessarily in the romance world 😍. Holly has been used by her horrible ex-fiance, and I'd now facing financial ruin and potential danger. In strides our beloved goalie with a proposition that will save them both. From necessity to friendship, to attraction to love! Perfect.
There is a great cast of characters, all fabulous with a few notable exceptions. Although Viktors mother holds strong opinions on who he should marry, Holly really is the right one for him. His kindness and thoughtfulness needs a person with a similar character, and that is Holly. I loved the bird sanctuary, the story of love found in unexpected circumstances, the team of friends surrounding both MMCs and the satisfaction of seeing comeuppances delivered! Lovely, engaging read. 💖💖💖💖💖
There is a great cast of characters, all fabulous with a few notable exceptions. Although Viktors mother holds strong opinions on who he should marry, Holly really is the right one for him. His kindness and thoughtfulness needs a person with a similar character, and that is Holly. I loved the bird sanctuary, the story of love found in unexpected circumstances, the team of friends surrounding both MMCs and the satisfaction of seeing comeuppances delivered! Lovely, engaging read. 💖💖💖💖💖
July 31, 2026
Victor is a professional hockey player who lives by a strict set of rules—no distractions, no relationships, and no losing. However, when family pressure to settle down becomes overwhelming, he decides to "buy" a fake wife to satisfy his family without altering his lifestyle. Holly needs money to pay back a loan-shark she borrowed money from because her ex-fiance stole her inheritance. They enter into a one-year, $2 million contract with zero room for feelings.
The arrangement quickly spirals out of control as they spend time together and face her father and then his mother and her scheme. As boundaries blur, their temporary arrangement turns into a possessive desire to make this a real marriage.
I loved watching Victor and Holly connect and their relationship grow. I really disliked her dad and her ex-fiance. I also enjoyed reconnecting with characters we meet in other books.
The arrangement quickly spirals out of control as they spend time together and face her father and then his mother and her scheme. As boundaries blur, their temporary arrangement turns into a possessive desire to make this a real marriage.
I loved watching Victor and Holly connect and their relationship grow. I really disliked her dad and her ex-fiance. I also enjoyed reconnecting with characters we meet in other books.
August 2, 2026
I love reading Kat Mizera’s books because while each one stands alone the characters all inhabit the same world and she includes interactions that are fun and sometimes surprising!
Viktor and Holly start off as just a bit more than acquaintances when he overhears her in a desperate moment. Their contract marriage is a quick solution to her problem and helps Viktor avoid his Russian mother’s matchmaking efforts.
The dual POV storytelling makes it clear both Viktor and Holly have developed feelings for each other but misunderstandings, secrets, assumptions and language barrier challenges all make their road to happiness fraught with extra angst.
I loved getting to know these characters and the opportunity to have some familiar faces show up in this story. I’m eager for Cash’s story next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Viktor and Holly start off as just a bit more than acquaintances when he overhears her in a desperate moment. Their contract marriage is a quick solution to her problem and helps Viktor avoid his Russian mother’s matchmaking efforts.
The dual POV storytelling makes it clear both Viktor and Holly have developed feelings for each other but misunderstandings, secrets, assumptions and language barrier challenges all make their road to happiness fraught with extra angst.
I loved getting to know these characters and the opportunity to have some familiar faces show up in this story. I’m eager for Cash’s story next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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