Through the Perilous Fight: A Sweet Hockey RomCon Patriotic Special Edition Paperback with Starry Edges

by Elana Johnson

One chaotic summer hockey tournament to celebrate the 250th birthday of the USA, a dietary prank gone wrong, and a kitchen they suddenly have to share... Yeah, things are about to get hot in here.


I have two don’t date chefs, and definitely don’t date hockey players.

As head sports nutritionist and chef for Team West at the elite Stars & Stripes Hockey Tournament, I’m fighting to prove I belong here—and not just because my dad’s on the coaching staff. The pressure is relentless, the stakes are sky-high, and the last thing I need is a distraction.

Especially one as handsome and full of sunshine as Jackson Reeves.

He’s loud, charming, and somehow always smiling. He needs access to my kitchen to cook his mom’s sharp white cheddar mac and cheese for his pre-game ritual, and can't I just slip him my keycard?

No. No, I cannot. And when I’m told last-minute that he’s vegan, I’m stuck planning special meals for him…only to discover it’s all part of a ridiculous hockey prank.

Now I’m sharing tight quarters—and too many heated moments—with a man who makes my pulse misfire and my carefully built walls start to crack.

I don’t do summer flings. I don’t date athletes. So why does three weeks suddenly feel like nowhere near enough?


The second I meet Brooke Brennan, I know I’ve met my match. She’s fiery, focused, and completely immune to my usual charm. Which would be fine if I didn’t need her kitchen for my pre-game ritual.

A prank about me being vegan gets me exactly what I access...to the kitchen, and to Brooke.

While I’m dodging her glares, I'm also falling for her quiet strength and realizing that my biggest game might not be on the ice at all. Because when she looks at me like I matter—really matter—I start to imagine a future that goes way beyond this tournament.

But there’s a final buzzer coming on our sweet summer relationship. She’s headed to Seattle, and I’m going back to Vermont.

And I don’t know how to tell her I want her forever…not just for July.

This is a reverse grumpy-sunshine hockey romcom filled with sizzling kitchen tension, Olympic-level stakes, and a slow-burn summer romance that might just change everything.

Perfect for readers who love sports romance, forced proximity, workplace tension, and swoony clean romcoms with heart. Let the fireworks begin!

Genres: Hockey, Hockey Romance, Summer, Romance, Sports, Chick Lit

360 pages, Paperback

Published May 12, 2026

About the author

3-time USA Today bestselling author Elana Johnson writes adult contemporary beach romance. She is the author of over 130 books across two names, and there's nothing better than sun, sand, and swoon-worthy kisses! Unless it's a sweet-and-sexy cowboy - read those under her pen name of Liz Isaacson. Or an emotional, heartfelt women's fiction novel - read those under her pen name of Jessie Newton.

Learn more at:
www.elanajohnson.com
www.lizisaacson.com
www.authorjessienewton.com

Reviews

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly, I must say thank you for my ARC of this book. This was the second book in this special series written for the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. This story was lovely. It had a few chuckle at moments but was basically a beautifully written sports romance totally capturing the feelings of a 250th celebration. I love foodies and I love sports romance. This was the best of both worlds with a chef and a hockey player. I live outside of DC in Maryland and have been to DC many times including once on a 4th of July and stayed for the fireworks. This was great. I visited the fish market, the mall and sat on the grass watching the fireworks and this book recaptured all those memories for me. The main couple were lovely and I am so glad we got a reference or two to the first book of the series. This was my first time reading Elana Johnson but I know it will not be my last. Her narrative is so well written as are her conversations and I definitely recommend this book.

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 5 out of 5]

“There’s a difference between being good at something and loving it.”

Jackson and Brooke have such a darling story. Their meet-cute is kind of hilarious and really showcases his golden retriever energy and her black cat sass. I love being a part of the 250 Year Stars and Stripes Hockey Exhibition and seeing all the different stories and connections of the teams and their special interests.

A pro hockey player and a member of the culinary team who feeds them is what this book is all about and I found these characters to be utterly adorable, especially together. In a mutual agreement to keep things light and for the duration of the event only, it sure was sweet to watch them each fall head-over-heels in a matter of days.

I love to cook and bake, and it was especially satisfying to follow Brooke around in all her foodie ways. Seafood swears? Yes, she uses them, and I couldn’t stop laughing. Boxing up meals in an effortless and orderly way spoke to my heart just as much as they did to Jacksy's stomach.

I loved all things hockey just as much and enjoyed every moment of this big commemoration–and especially the celebration of true love.

*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*

[Ashley Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute, fun closed door romance. He definitely falls first. I loved the characters in this book and how he pushes her out of her comfort zone.

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's official! This is my favorite book by Elana Johnson! I loved this one so much! I loved the dynamics between Brooke and Jackson! They are opposites in their personalities and yet work so perfectly together. It takes a little bit of time to get Brooke's walls to come down. But rightly so, after her past experiences and Jackson kind of has a few connections to what caused her to be burned before. So it's definitely not going to be easy going for Jackson. But I loved watching him be himself and Brooke seeing that he was a good man and was worth trusting and letting past her defenses!

I've read early copies of a few of the books in this series. And these hockey players are having fun playing pranks on each other. Or more specifically a few players are behind the major pranks. And one of those pranks is what causes our two main characters to meet and have some friction between them. Hahaha! It was pretty funny watching it come about and play out! I was laughing out loud over it. And laughing out loud over several other moments throughout the book. I love the banter between these two characters. Any of the books I've read by this author have me feeling that way with her characters!

And the chemistry between Brooke and Jackson will have you grinning very happily! They're just the cutest! I for one definitely think that only three weeks together is way too short of a time for these two. They need to figure out life in being able to be together forever! Just sayin'!

Content: Clean. Some sweet kisses and nothing further.

I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

[DayDreamer8912 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rate: 5/5
Genre: Clean/Sports Romance
🚨TW/CW: seafood swearing, anxieties, mentions of parents divorce

Favourite Moments
🏒 They first met (can’t spoil it)
🏒 Them bickering, teasing and flirting.
🏒 Moments in the kitchen (can’t spoil it)
🏒 Them sneaking out for a date
🏒 Them opening up to each other
🏒 Moments with his mother.
🏒She went grocery shopping with Capri and Lars.
🏒 Their lists (can’t spoil it)
🏒 The gala (can’t spoil it)
(and lots more)

Swoony Moments
🏒 He falls first
🏒 He loves, protects and also respected her.
🏒 He waits until she is ready.
🏒 He makes Mac and cheese.
🏒 He shows his vulnerable self to her.

Synopsis
Brooke
A chef who dreams of opening a homey restaurant in a small town. She is also the Stars’ Hockey Team’s Coach’s daughter. She vows not to date chef and hockey players.

Jackson
A pro-hockey player of the Stripes’ team. He has a ritual that he needs to make his mom’s special recipe of mac and cheese.

They both meet when he got prank about his food preference that he is a vegan and also a bet that his teammates made to ask her out. However, things get interesting when he found out that she is the opposing team coach’s daughter and also, she vows not to date a hockey player. Will he able to win her heart? Will they ever be together? Read Through the Perilous Fight to find out.

Review
Love this two together, they are just like have black cat and golden retriever vibes in their relationship. Love them sneaking out for dates and also sneaking in the kitchen to do some cooking which is mac and cheese for his ritual before his hockey game. (can’t spoil it) Their bickers, teasing and flirting are just so adorable and also the funniest thing is she use seafood to swear.

He falls for her instantly and on the first day they met he already got prank with someone messing up with his meal which they stated that he is vegan but he is not. Love that they talk it out and also being honest with each other of how they feel and also showing their vulnerable self to each other and opening up to each other about their past and insecurities though it is hard for her to speak out.

Love how supportive her fellow chef friends and always have each other’s back. They asked her to go off with him and covered for her. And love the moments with her chef friends buying groceries and also planning the flow of the food for the players.

As usual there are pranks and his teammates are just fun to be with.

This story made me smile, laugh, swoon and made me really want to eat mac and cheese. Can’t spoil the story you will have to read to find out.

This is the 5th book of the Stars, Stripes and Hockey Nights Series written by 13 authors. Can’t wait to read the next story.

I was gifted complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own. Thanks @elanaromcomvibes for the ARC copy.

Can't wait to read her other books.

You can purchase this book on Amazon and it is available on KU.

[Lindsey Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️

The Stars, Stripes, and Hockey Nights series continues with book 5, Through the Perilous Fight, by Elana Johnson. Continuing this collaborative effort, Elana brings her talents to this closed door, hockey romance series. When our two MCs meet, it may start out as a joke being played, but it quickly turns into so much more. I love how each book focuses on a different couple, yet brings back characters that we have come to love from the earlier books. Brooke and Jackson have obvious chemistry, but reading about these two letting each other in is pure joy.

Brooke is out to prove that she was hired as a head chef because she deserves it, not because her dad, a well known hockey player/coach, is coaching part of the special team put together for the Nation’s 250th Birthday celebration. She is a talented chef, who takes her role in the festivities seriously and she has worked hard to get where she is in her career. Brooke is hard working, talented, but does know how to let her hair down when working hours are over. When she is asked out by one of the hockey players she agrees, thinking it will be a fun night, not the start of something amazing. She quickly learns that so much can happen in 3 weeks!

Jackson is sunshine, which matches his blonde hair perfectly! Yes, folks we have a blonde MMC!! He is focused on his hockey career, after going through a bad breakup about a year ago, and when he asks Brooke out, he isn’t expecting to fall so hard for her. What I loved about Jackson is that yes, he plays hockey and he is passionate about it, but he knows it isn’t going to provide everything he needs in life. He wants love, roots, and a home with someone and he is open about this. He made me smile so many times throughout this book and I truly do not know how Brooke resists him for so long.

This is the first time that I have read anything by Elana and I know I will continue reading books by her. I loved the humor she brought to this book, balancing it perfectly with romance that while sweet kisses only, is still heated and deep. Both our MCs find everything they are looking for, in a person that is outside their normal comfort zones for them. With many swoon worthy moments, I flew this book and look forward to reading more from this series and Elana.

As always, review any author notes before reading.

What to Expect:
🏒Hockey Rom-Com
🍳Grumpy x Sunshine
🏒Black Cat FMC
🍳Golden Retriever MMC
🏒Enemies to Lovers
🍳He Falls First
🏒Forced Proximity
🍳Forbidden Love
🏒Workplace Romance
🍳Closed Door Romance

[Brandi Jackola · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jackson has been tapped to play in the Stars and Stripes exhibition tournament. As he’s from the eastern part of the US, that makes him one of the Stripes, whereas the western part of the US are the Stars. He’s excited to play, but at the same time, the tournament is cutting into the time he would usually be spending with his mother.

Brooke is the head chef and sports nutritionist for the Stars, along with her counterpart, Luca, who is the same for the Stripes. Brooke has had plenty of experience with hockey players, as her dad played hockey, then coached, and is coaching the Stars team. This makes her determined to not give any of the players her attention other than what she needs to do for their nutritional needs.

Jackson does not care about that; he is immediately struck by Brooke, and is subconsciously working out how to win her over.

I love that Brooke is a redhead with pale skin and freckles. I know a little something about that, being born the same way, though my hair is more silver now than red. The funniest thing is that I have a younger sister (she’s only a year younger) who is named Brooke, which, strangely, I don’t see that name much in the books I read.

I love that Jackson is so besotted with Brooke; as mentioned before, she’s known hockey players from her dad’s teams, and the ones she has dated have left much to be desired. What she doesn’t realize, yet, is that Jackson is cut from a different cloth, and he’s determined to get to the root of her distaste for hockey players.

I LOVE hockey romances. And when I heard about this series, I knew I had to read all of the books. And I’ve enjoyed every single one I’ve read so far. Some of these authors I’ve been reading for years, and some are new to me, but overall, I’m getting more than what I’d hoped for, and this series will hold a place in my heart, and on my e-reader, forever. So get the book, and enjoy.

[Mitzi Neiderhiser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Through the Perilous Fight is part of the Stars, Stripes and Hockey Nights series that is celebrating our nation’s 250th birthday with summer hockey tournament held in Washington DC with the best of the best players. This series is a group of stand-alone sweet romances stories that overlap characters but require the reader to have them all or even more than one to enjoy the story.

In this story, Elana Johnson introduces the reader to Jackson Reeves and Brooke Brennan. Brooke’s father is a well-known hockey coach, and she is determined to open her own restaurant and make a name of her own without relying on her father’s influence and without falling for a hockey player. Jackson is an NHL player from Blue Ridge. Jackson starts off on the wrong foot with Brooke due to a prank his fellow players play on him, telling Brooke he is a vegan and needs a special meal. That is just the start of the prank wars that occur during this entire series (I can’t wait to see who is the mastermind in the end). Brooke tries her best to keep her walls up and fight any feelings that might start to rise up for Jackson, but he is going to give it his best shot to knock them down. This is a great story with so much banter and emotion, watching Brooke try to balance her feelings, her future, and making the best decisions can be hard. Jake just wants to be with Brooke, he has his heart on his sleeve, but he must prove that he is there for her first. Grab a copy for yourself to check out the rollercoaster ride.

I really enjoyed this story as Jake fell first and tried show Brooke how great they could be together. Since I enjoy cooking this story was a great combination of my favorite things cooking, hockey, and romance!

I received an ARC copy of this story. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own and left voluntarily.

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The comedic scenes, hockey romance and lots and lots of food references made this book especially fun to read.

Brooke is in charge of the feeding the hungry hordes of the hockey teams. She loves what she does, but more than anything, she wants to prove her worth. It did not take me long to realize that Brooke was top notch. She was just very insecure. She has sworn off ever dating an athlete, especially a hockey player. Famous last words.

Jackson is in town for the all-star extravaganza hockey Stars and Stripes Tournament. He knows he has to get in good with the chef in order to gain access to the kitchen. It is imperative for him as part of his ritual is making his mom's homemade mac and cheese. I will just leave it this way - their first meeting does not go very well. It is nothing to write home about. It was still quite funny.

I loved these characters. It was a little different twist on a hockey romance. The banter and flirting with another was priceless. You could not help but love them both.

I enjoyed how they both were able to open up and show their vulnerabilities and insecurities to one another early on. It did not take long for them to get comfortable with each other.

There were so many unforgettable scenes, including a vegan joke, Brooke forgetting her shoes, and my personal favorite -Brooke swears with seafood. That is an original.

The hockey team pranks continue. I am waiting patiently to see who is responsible.

This clean, swoony romance was charming and perfect with the cherry on top being the 250th year celebration for the good old USA. This multi-author series is a must read for fans of romantic comedy. I love how each book has the author's original touch to it.

Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Anastasiya · Rating 4 out of 5]

I jostle my way to the front, where I've been skating out this entire tournament, and when I step out onto the ice the roar of the crowd hits me like a physical wall. The arena is a sea of red, white, and blue, the fans screaming themselves hoarse.

I enjoyed every minute of this book!

Through the Perilous Fight by Elana Johnson follows the story of Brooke Brennan and Jackson Reeves as they cross paths during the patriotic hockey tournament put on to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the USA.



She's the chef for the tournament, making sure everything is perfect in the kitchen with a tendency to be a glass half empty kinda girl...meanwhile and he's a star hockey player who's a glass half full kinda guy with STRONG golden retriever vibes.

And everything starts between the two of them when his team members pull a nutrition coded hockey prank on him...suddenly they find themselves in the kitchen after hours cooking his mom's famous mac and cheese and planning early morning dates.

Set behind the backdrop of Washington DC, this book features cute bakeries, patriotic parades, fireworks, and a healthy romance!

lol with the amount of hockey romances out there, it's nice to read one that features two emotionally mature characters who know boundaries and what's important.

So if you're in the mood for a clean romance with two emotionally mature characters and a HEA, then this book is for you!!!

Also I want to thank the author for sending me a copy of her book!!! I LOVE the patriotic sprayed edges!!!

That's all for now!!
-Anastasiya (@thebookishwriter13)

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

The next book in the 250th Celebrations of USA 🇺🇸 Independence through thirteen hockey focused stories . All great stories and this book by Elana Johnson is fun and full of puns and spun just right to delight . There’s culinary as well as hockey skills on offer though he only has one dish in his repertoire. She thinks him a dish. So maybe he’ll score at amour.

He thinks she’s cooking up a storm and it’s more than her ingredients that keep him warm at night. Pining over her when they’re not wining and dining and longing to hold her tight. He’s certainly grinning when he’s winning and not just on the ice . Because Brooke is Jackson’s idea of paradise. A bit of alright.

Hockey guy Jackson has an attraction for Brooke the Chef and nutritionist for the West team who can cook up a well balanced diet into a feast ,which is just as well cos she’s feeding man mountains like beasts. Jackson is no exception to the rule but probably the only one who makes her drool.

Brooke is one chef Luca the other ,she’s out to prove herself worthy of this prestigious position on her own merits and not because of her father who is on the coaching staff putting a foot in the door giving extra credits. Here under her own steam and work ethics not some kind of nepotism fix.

She doesn’t suffer fools gladly and doesn’t exactly thank whoever played a prank in her kitchen,in fact she’s itching to discover the culprit and they’d wish they’d not entered her pulpit of cuisine. Because when she’s mad she’s mean,though in her eye there’s a glean for this centre-man. He’s playing and paying it forward for the tournament and for love is this gentleman of the sport with a soft heart just for her who is a bit chaotic but his patriotic for his country the USA.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, a huge thank you to Elana Johnson for trusting me with this story, and to calli for connecting me with another wonderful read. I'm so grateful for the opportunity!

Through the Perilous Fight was the perfect book to finish on the Fourth of July.

Brooke, the chef responsible for preparing meals for the Classic Hockey Match celebrating America's 250th birthday never expects that one harmless prank will introduce her to Jackson, a charming hockey player. What starts as a chance encounter soon blossoms into a heartfelt romance as they navigate demanding careers, personal dreams, and the uncertainty of what comes next.

This story felt like wrapping yourself in a cozy Hallmark movie. There are no over-the-top twists or high spice just two genuinely kind people building a relationship through trust, communication, and shared moments. Watching Brooke and Jackson support one another made their romance feel incredibly heartwarming.

I also loved the Washington, D.C. setting. It added so much charm to the story and made it the perfect patriotic read for today.

If you're looking for a Hockey romance with sweet, closed-door romance, Hallmark-style vibes and a charming Washington, D.C. setting...then Through the Perilous Fight is one I'd definitely recommend.

Sometimes the sweetest love stories are the ones that remind us love doesn't have to be loud to be unforgettable. ❤️

[Angie (mushmysteriesandmore) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Stars and Stripes Hockey Tournament continues with a lot of banter, sneaking around and a big load of mac and cheese.

Brooke is a professional chef and she’s currently working on the Stars and Stripes Hockey tournament, catering for the West team. She’s suddenly thrown by a last minute vegan request from the East team being returned saying that he’s not vegan. Meet Jackson Reeves, right winger for the East team. He’s been pranked by someone who claims he’s vegan when he isn’t but it does give him an excuse to meet the beautiful chef for the West and secure unlicensed access to the kitchen so he can make his mum’s special mac and cheese recipe before each game, a ritual of his.

In between making mac and cheese and secret dates, Brooke and Jackson grown closer and want more than just a tournament length relationship. I found the banter and the spark between them really good and fun to read. Jackson was such a darling, he’s sunny and energetic (and a blonde) whereas Brooke is more grounded and serious. With Jackson, she experiences a lighter side of things, finding the fun in life.

I really enjoyed this book, it had a great energy and such great vibes. The hockey is also really well written in this and all the books of the series I’ve read so far. You feel like you’re at the games, rooting for your favourite side, which changes depending on which male lead you’re reading about at the time.

[Carol Malone · Rating 5 out of 5]

He Shoots. She Scores.
If opposites really do attract, Brooke and Jackson prove it in the most delightful way. Brooke, a talented chef who has sworn off hockey players—and relationships altogether—finds herself responsible for feeding hundreds of people during a summer hockey tournament. Enter Jackson, the golden boy of the two teams, whose bright smile and easygoing charm are impossible to ignore.

Watching these two tiptoe around each other's very different personalities was both compelling and endearing. Brooke is methodical, driven, and cautious, while Jackson leaps first and figures things out later. They're complete opposites, and I loved every minute of it.

When Jackson realizes he wants far more than the three-week fling they agreed to, his thoughts made me smile: "I do really need this meal to go well, as this feels like our hinge date, the one where Brooke will really decide if I get more than three weeks or… not." But my absolute favorite quote comes a little later: "My hands are sweating. Not the normal, I-just-skated-three-periods-and-I’ve-got-to-get-these-gloves-off sweating. More like My-Life-Is-About-To-Change-And-I-Might-Puke-Cheeseburgers-Everywhere sweating."

Jackson's humor is irresistible, and his heart is even better. If you enjoy opposites-attract romances, witty banter, lovable heroes, heartfelt emotion, and plenty of laughs along the way, you'll love Through the Perilous Fight.

[Coffeenbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

- Hockey romance
- Instant attraction
- He falls first
- Semi-forbidden romance

I have been loving this multi-author series! It is set during the 250th anniversary of the US and each can be read as a standalone, but I would recommend reading all of them because they are so good! Also, there is a recurring theme throughout the books of an unknown prankster. I have my suspicions who it is!!!

This story is less about hockey and more about the building relationship between hockey player Jackson and chef for the special team Brooke. Jackson hasn't been very interested in getting romantically involved after his last relationship ended poorly, but once he sees the spunky chef, he is all in. Sure, they are both only in DC for a few weeks for the special series of games and they live on opposite sides of the country, but they could do long distance, right?

However, Brooke isn't as on board as Jackson. First, she doesn't really like hockey players since her father was a coach (and is coincidentally coaching the opposing team from Jackson in the series). Second, her last relationship left her doubting herself and she isn't sure she can trust her heart again.

This is a refreshing book because these characters actually communicate their feelings with one another. Theirs is a very sweet slow burn and I could not put this book down.

[Livy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ugh how cute was this! Brooke and Jackson are so cute!

Brooke is your classic black cat. She’s a little grumpy and a heck of a lot of sassy. She swears in seafood and refuses to let anyone walk over her.

This pairs beautifully with Jacksons golden retriever energy. He’s a ray of sunshine, always using long phrases/made up names to things and situations.

The two figure out how to navigate whatever is brewing during this tournament while she’s the chef, specifically for the other team. She also has not much interest in hockey players after her ex’s.
I love how Brooke knows her limits and sticks to them. I love how Jackson gets his head out of his behind and realizes himself what the problem was and then communicates it on top of everything. SWOON. And they even start adopting each others things. He swears like her, she talks like him. It’s adorable.
 
Favorite quote
✨“That’s the perilous fight. Us fighting for that life. For each other. For time together, and for the team brotherhood, and for a place in town.”✨
 
☀️🏒Sunshine Hockey Player
😒👩🏽‍🍳Grumpy Chef
🦮Golden retriever
🐈‍⬛Black Cat
❣️Casual almost enemies to more
🩷Love when you least expect it
😍A guy not afraid to show his feelings
💭A girl with a dream
🇺🇸All things America and Hockey
💋Closed door, kisses only
🥳Happily ever after

[Kelli M. Stowers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored Brooke and Jackson’s strangers to more story.

I loved Brooke’s storyline. She is so good at her job, but lets self-doubt creep in and make her question her abilities. I loved seeing Jackson support her and show her that she can do it all. I also laughed every time she used a “seafood swear” and loved that Jackson picked up the habit (the halibut?), too.

Jackson is such a great golden retriever book boyfriend. He falls so fast and hard for Brooke. I enjoyed watching as their friendship developed and real feelings formed. I also loved how he made space for Brooke to feel all of her feelings surrounding her work, her family, and especially her feelings toward him. He did not push, which was exactly what she needed.

The semi-secret dating aspect of this story was so fun. They weren’t exactly the sneakiest, but I loved getting caught up in the rush of “what happens if they get found out?” aspect. And then to see how it all played out once everyone knew was fantastic.

This is the 5th of 13 books in the Stars, Stripes & Hockey Nights multi-author series about 2 all-star hockey teams playing a tournament in Washington DC to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the USA.

[Michelle Dodge · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a clean romance. It is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone.

Brooke is a chef for the Stars and Stripes hockey tournament. She is on edge as she not done an event like this before. Jackson is a hockey player on the stripes team. His fellow players pull a prank on him and tell the chefs that he was vegan. This starts the interaction between the two. Jackson is not actually vegan. They get to know each other through the tournament, with Jackson needing to use the kitchen to make his mom’s macaroni and cheese before the games as usual ritual. They get along, but she’s in Seattle and he’s in Virginia. Is there too much distance? They both have demanding jobs.

I am enjoying this series. This was a really good read. I like how the characters interact as well as the side characters. You get some hints of other relationships that might happen in other books. I definitely learned some things about cooking and hockey. I found myself laughing in places and rooting for the both of them. You definitely won’t regret reading this book.

I received an ARC from the author and am leaving an honest review.

[Elise · Rating 5 out of 5]

A love connection that starts with a prank. His teammates tell one of the chefs that he is vegan and it causes a moment of panic since there wasn’t a dietary restriction form on file for him. But once Jackson realizes this is the opening he needs to beg for kitchen access to make his grandma’s mac and cheese (a pregame ritual), he takes it for a good sign.

Brooke is mortified to hear that there is someone who needs a special dietary meal that her team was unaware of. But she recovers quickly and gives in to the golden retriever hockey players ask to make the special mac and cheese.

The two strike up a friendship that grows into more. While Brooke knows just how demanding the hockey life is, as the daughter of a coach, Jackson doesn’t fully understand how demanding the life of a chef is, especially one handling catering for four hockey teams at once.

I loved Brooke’s creatively clean swear words, Jackson’s ability to capitalize and hyphenate everything to make it a title, and the nervousness of both of them meeting the family somewhat unexpectedly. This book will definitely keep you smiling and laughing as you read through it.

[Clare Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jackson for the win!

Oh my goodness…this was a great read! This book has it all—loveable MCs, hockey tournament, American pride, character growth, and lots of fun banter, swoon moments, and smiles!

This sweet romantic comedy focuses on Brooke and Jackson, two of my favorite MCs I’ve read so far this year! Brooke is the daughter of a hockey coach and has a list of exes (lots of them hockey players), and has her reasons to stay away. Jackson is an Olympic hockey star, 7 year NHL veteran and the best golden retriever MMC I’ve read. Despite her guard and their short-term situation, Jackson won’t stop until he’s given it his all.

I love that it didn’t take them long to jump in, and a lot of the book is working through their relationship, Instead of a “will they/wont they” theme.

You’ll love this book if you enjoy:
🏒hockey romcoms
🐈‍⬛ black cat FMC/golden retriever MMC
👩‍🍳 foodie descriptions (she’s a chef!)
🧪 lots of chemistry between characters
♥️HEA

Happy reading!

[Lori Hooten · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was another enjoyable addition to the Stars, Stripes, and Hockey Nights series of romcom stories celebrating the 250th anniversary of the US. Brooke is a well-respected chef brought in to make sure the hockey teams have the right nutrition. Jackson is on one of said hockey teams. Brooke is strong, independent, and wants to stand on her own two feet. Jackson just needs access to her kitchen to make his ritual recipe of his mom's mac and cheese before each game. These two are so sweet together and their story is one that makes you smile as you read along. From the culinary exclamations to the dates that have to end at the final buzzer, you will find yourself enjoying this story and rooting for the team of Brooke and Jackson. What happens at the end of the story is what makes happily-ever-afters such pleasant reading.

You will want to read this for the culinary exclamations, the DC beauty, the sports romance, and the wonderful characters.

I received an ebook copy of this title from the author. All opinions are my own.

[Barbara Hackel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nothing perilous, only perfection!

Wow! When I first learned about this series, I didn't quite know what to expect. I enjoy hockey romances and authors who make them come to life. The authors in this series are true gems (as proven from previous books they have written), and the results are beyond anything one could imagine!
Two diverse careers are used in "Through the Perilous Fight" that have a symbiotic relationship that I had never considered before. The main characters are both at the top of their careers, yet vulnerable and not self absorbed. I loved that each had worries and insecurities even though they were de facto super stars! Their emotions, their depth of professionalism, and their genuine personalities were incredible. I confess that I read this in one sitting, I simply could not put it down!
Although the timing is perfect as we face the 250th year of our great nation, the message is timeless.
This is the 'Hat Trick' of Hockey Romance!

[Op · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!!!

I’m speechless! Though perilous fight was one of the best Elana Johnson books ever!!! I was laughing, and crying (happy tears) and was emotionally invested in the characters. This was one of the best he falls first and harder, but she catches up to him by the end. I even had to put down the book and take a moment to breathe at this one point “I love hockey and it’s my job, but Brooke, I need a home, you’re my home.” I love the golden retriever vibes from Jackson and the black cat vibes from Brooke, but together…one of the best couples!!!

My top 5 reason you should read this book! (In no particular order)

1. Enemies to lovers

2. Fun pranks

3. He falls first

4. Golden retriever energy and black cat vibes

5. She’s careful being with another hockey player (has had her heart broken by hockey players before) he shows her he’s sticking around for the long run.


* I received this as a ARC reader and this is my honest review *

[HEATHER · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the first book I have read by Elana Johnson and I look forward to reading more of her books. This book had two of my favorite things: Hockey and Food! How can you not love a book with those two things being in it. I will warn you though make sure you have eaten before reading this book because it will make you hungry. I've been craving mac & cheese ever since. LOL This book will have you laughing, swooning, smiling and will leave you with a fantastic ending!

I loved getting to know Jackson & Brooke. These two will make sure you are entertained throughout the entire book. Brooke is a chef at the Four Seasons Resort where the teams are staying and when she meets Jackson it's definitely not love at first sight. These two have some great banter and had me laughing so many times. I also love the pranks with these hockey players. They always keep us on our toes. I don't want to give anything away because I want everyone to dive in and enjoy this book without getting too much details.

This book will have you cheering for more and I can't wait to read more in this series. Elana was a perfect edition to this series and I highly recommend this book.

Thank you Elana Johnson for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.

[TJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

🎊THROUGH THE PERILOUS FIGHT🎊 by Elana Johnson is so fun and swoony! ♥️
Just what a romcom should be! ❣️❣️

♥️My Top 10 favorite things about this sweet, lighthearted book, in no particular order:♥️
1 - MMC’s sweet, Golden Retriever energy
2 - Sizzling tension
3 - He falls first
4 - So Sweet & Swoony
5 - Fun, witty banter
6 - Dual POV
7 - Protective hero
8 - He makes her laugh
9 - Hockey team pranks
10 - Off limits attraction
11 - Seafood swears
12 - Veganism vs Cheeganism
13 - Heated moments while keeping it clean
14 - MMC treating the FMC with such respect and care
15 - How talented this author truly is!!❣️
OK 15 favorite things. 🥰

I really enjoyed this entertaining, sweet and swoony book and would definitely recommend it! ❣️❣️
I was given an advanced copy and am voluntarily giving my honest opinion.

[Terry T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Is a sweet grumpy/sunshine, enemies to more, forbidden love, forced proximity, black cat/golden retriever, opposites attract, hockey romcom with no cliffhanger.

Some of lines I really like --- if I don’t want to be caught in a compromising situation, I shouldn’t put myself in compromising situations. --- Are you back from the wharf yet? Your boyfriend looks like he’ll eat any number of raw fish just to talk to you… I’ve been trying to keep him busy, but he’s now using my whisk to stir his coffee. His COFFEE, Brooke. ---

Who will win the Patriotic Exhibition Tournament? Will it be the East Team or West Team? These and other questions will all be answered.

I loved Brooke and Jackson's story and I'm sure you will too. I've loved everyone of her books that I've read and I can't wait to read her next book.

[Shelley Wahls · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really fun book, Brooke is a no nonsense chef, she is all about her kitchen and making the best food. This is a job where she is chef for a group pro hockey players that have been split into two opposing teams for exhibition. both male and female teams. She took to help her save to open her own restaurant. But she has sworn off dating chefs and Hockey players. Jackson is a hockey player, who has a superstition of needing to cook a certain meal before games. He is a kind sweet guy, Brooke is a bit of a grump, and likes rules. So on a bet they meet each other and the story takes off from there. His need to have a place to cook in a hotel is the driving force of this story. It is a quick read and so fun and patriotic, I enjoyed it very much.

[Leann Arave · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another charming addition to this great series. I especially loved Brooke being one of the chefs for the hockey team while they are prepping for their games. And it really throws a curve when she is technically over the opposing teams meals. I thought it was also entertaining that somebody pulled a prank that Jackson was vegan and caused quite a stir. Jackson is the perfect gentleman, a hunky hockey player and loves his mom. What more can you want out of a boyfriend. Brooke is kind of fending for herself, saving for her own restaurant and does not have time for a boyfriend. Which makes this all the more sweet cause he falls first and you wonder if she’s gonna fall or not. It was a fun, entertaining, clean and wholesome romance with lots of witty banter and great hockey vibe.

[Jenny x Carolena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Through the Perilous Fight is a really enjoyable read, perfect for the foodie at heart — Elana Johnson fills this one with so many fun dishes to drool over, especially Jackson's grandma's mac and cheese. The vegan prank that throws Brooke and Jackson together is a hilarious setup, and their chemistry is off the charts — that kitchen gets hotter than an oven fast! Brooke's quirky seafood-themed curses ("holy shrimp," "oh for the halibut," "holy lobster bisque") add so much personality and had me grinning throughout. A sweet, sizzling summer romance with heart, humor, and enough heat to keep you engaged from start to finish — I loved it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.