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Hard to Get: The BRAND NEW steamy opposites attract ice hockey romance from USA Today Bestseller Kelly Jamieson for 2026
He's playing for keeps. She's playing hard to get.
I've built a life I'm proud of - my own successful business, a beautiful condo, amazing friends, and a spoiled dog named Betty who takes up an entire king-sized bed! My life is exactly the way I want it. I know from experience that I need to keep relationships at a distance. A little fun? Fine. Commitment? Absolutely not.
Then I meet Jayden Wood in the park after our dogs nearly tangle their leashes together. He's charming and way too attractive for my peace of mind. As a pro hockey player stuck on a struggling team, Jayden already has enough chaos in his life. But then our paths keep crossing. At the coffee shop. In the park. Around the city. Jayden calls it fate.
I swear he's impossible to get rid of. Now the man who thrives on competition has decided I'm his next challenge-and he's determined to prove I'm not as hard to get as I pretend to be.
Praise for Kelly
'No one does hockey romance like Kelly Jamieson!' Kate Meader
'If you're a fan of Rachel Reid or Elle Kennedy, then you'll definitely enjoy this book' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Perfect for fans of Elle Kennedy! I devoured this in one day' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'I couldn't put this book down! It was so good! I laughed, I cried. Can't wait to read more from this author! yall will NOT want to miss this! Kelly absolutely outdid herself on this one' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I've built a life I'm proud of - my own successful business, a beautiful condo, amazing friends, and a spoiled dog named Betty who takes up an entire king-sized bed! My life is exactly the way I want it. I know from experience that I need to keep relationships at a distance. A little fun? Fine. Commitment? Absolutely not.
Then I meet Jayden Wood in the park after our dogs nearly tangle their leashes together. He's charming and way too attractive for my peace of mind. As a pro hockey player stuck on a struggling team, Jayden already has enough chaos in his life. But then our paths keep crossing. At the coffee shop. In the park. Around the city. Jayden calls it fate.
I swear he's impossible to get rid of. Now the man who thrives on competition has decided I'm his next challenge-and he's determined to prove I'm not as hard to get as I pretend to be.
Praise for Kelly
'No one does hockey romance like Kelly Jamieson!' Kate Meader
'If you're a fan of Rachel Reid or Elle Kennedy, then you'll definitely enjoy this book' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Perfect for fans of Elle Kennedy! I devoured this in one day' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'I couldn't put this book down! It was so good! I laughed, I cried. Can't wait to read more from this author! yall will NOT want to miss this! Kelly absolutely outdid herself on this one' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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First published September 25, 2026
About the author
Kelly Jamieson
109 books2,663 followersKelly Jamieson is a USA Today bestselling author of over 70 romance novels and novellas. Her writing has been described as “emotionally complex,” “sweet and satisfying,” and “blisteringly sexy.” She likes black coffee, white wine and high heels…and of course cheering on her Winnipeg Jets during hockey season! She loves hearing from readers, so please visit her website at www.kellyjamieson.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
September 28, 2026
This was such a sweet romance, with no unnecessary drama, great communication, lots of smiles, and amazing chemistry between the two main characters.
Stella is an incredibly intelligent and independent woman. She has her own business, her own home, a dog, her orchids, and a great group of friends. She is genuinely happy with the life she has built for herself and doesn’t need a man to feel fulfilled. However, some childhood trauma starts resurfacing and forces her to confront fears and insecurities she thought she had left behind.
Jayden, on the other hand, is a hockey player, absolutely hilarious, and basically a walking green flag who also has a dog. He has major golden retriever boyfriend energy, and I loved how naturally he fit into Stella’s life.
Their chemistry was one of my favorite parts of the book. From the moment they met, their interactions felt effortless. Jayden’s jokes actually made me laugh, and I really enjoyed how natural their conversations felt. Nothing between them seemed forced, and their relationship developed in a way that felt easy and believable.
We also have an age gap, with Stella being the older one, which I personally really enjoyed. It never felt like a huge issue between them, and I loved that the age difference wasn’t used for unnecessary drama. I also really appreciated that Jayden fell first.
Seeing everything being addressed instead of dragged out with pointless misunderstandings was so satisfying.
Overall, this was a warm, charming romance with lovable characters, natural chemistry, good communication, and just the right amount of emotional depth. A very easy and enjoyable read.
Stella is an incredibly intelligent and independent woman. She has her own business, her own home, a dog, her orchids, and a great group of friends. She is genuinely happy with the life she has built for herself and doesn’t need a man to feel fulfilled. However, some childhood trauma starts resurfacing and forces her to confront fears and insecurities she thought she had left behind.
Jayden, on the other hand, is a hockey player, absolutely hilarious, and basically a walking green flag who also has a dog. He has major golden retriever boyfriend energy, and I loved how naturally he fit into Stella’s life.
Their chemistry was one of my favorite parts of the book. From the moment they met, their interactions felt effortless. Jayden’s jokes actually made me laugh, and I really enjoyed how natural their conversations felt. Nothing between them seemed forced, and their relationship developed in a way that felt easy and believable.
We also have an age gap, with Stella being the older one, which I personally really enjoyed. It never felt like a huge issue between them, and I loved that the age difference wasn’t used for unnecessary drama. I also really appreciated that Jayden fell first.
Seeing everything being addressed instead of dragged out with pointless misunderstandings was so satisfying.
Overall, this was a warm, charming romance with lovable characters, natural chemistry, good communication, and just the right amount of emotional depth. A very easy and enjoyable read.
September 6, 2026
Kelly Jamieson knows how to write a spicy sports romance! I throughly enjoyed the Jersey storm series and this is no different.
From the get go my favourite character was Jayden, he is so genuinely kind and seems like good fun. Completely opposite to Stella who is serious, driven and loves her single life.
From the start of the book I felt a connection between Stella and Jayden and it felt so honest which drew me in instantly. I loved that through the dual POV it’s clear that both characters are caught up in similar kind of turmoil over their feelings for each other and it really made me smile. Kelly gave each character a strong side as well as a different vulnerable element to their past, I think it was written in a way that highlighted those vulnerabilities which was powerful but also allowed them to grow both as individuals and as friends.
Despite their opposite personalities, they had a lot in common and spending time together came naturally too them, as did the attraction.
Can I also just say….Betty and Frank are ADORABLE 😍.
This was such a fun, spicy romance and I loved the nerdy / stats side of Stella. Strong FMC’s who are intelligent and make the MMC admire them for it are a rarity and it was great.
From the get go my favourite character was Jayden, he is so genuinely kind and seems like good fun. Completely opposite to Stella who is serious, driven and loves her single life.
From the start of the book I felt a connection between Stella and Jayden and it felt so honest which drew me in instantly. I loved that through the dual POV it’s clear that both characters are caught up in similar kind of turmoil over their feelings for each other and it really made me smile. Kelly gave each character a strong side as well as a different vulnerable element to their past, I think it was written in a way that highlighted those vulnerabilities which was powerful but also allowed them to grow both as individuals and as friends.
Despite their opposite personalities, they had a lot in common and spending time together came naturally too them, as did the attraction.
Can I also just say….Betty and Frank are ADORABLE 😍.
This was such a fun, spicy romance and I loved the nerdy / stats side of Stella. Strong FMC’s who are intelligent and make the MMC admire them for it are a rarity and it was great.
September 23, 2026
If you love the sharp banter, swoony sports romance, and relatable leads from Chelsea Curto, Stephanie Archer, or Elle Kennedy, this one is absolutely for you! 🎉
Our heroine has her life exactly how she wants it: thriving business, perfect apartment, great friends, and her dog Betty who’s definitely the real queen of the king-sized bed. She’s got her rules straight—fun is fine, but love? Total “system error” in her book, and commitment is strictly off the table. She’s learned the hard way that keeping people at a distance is the only way to stay safe.
Then Jayden Wood literally crashes into her world when their dogs almost tangle leashes in the park. The pro hockey star is charming, way too handsome, and already dealing with plenty of chaos as part of a struggling team—but fate (or Jayden’s very persistent meddling!) keeps throwing them together: coffee runs, park walks, random run-ins all over the city. For a guy who lives for competition, winning her over quickly becomes his favourite challenge… and he’s convinced she’s not nearly as unshakeable as she acts.
It’s such a fun, addictive read—full of that tense, delicious push-and-pull, laugh-out-loud dialogue, and all the warm, fuzzy feels you crave. I devoured every page and can’t wait for more! 💛🏒
Our heroine has her life exactly how she wants it: thriving business, perfect apartment, great friends, and her dog Betty who’s definitely the real queen of the king-sized bed. She’s got her rules straight—fun is fine, but love? Total “system error” in her book, and commitment is strictly off the table. She’s learned the hard way that keeping people at a distance is the only way to stay safe.
Then Jayden Wood literally crashes into her world when their dogs almost tangle leashes in the park. The pro hockey star is charming, way too handsome, and already dealing with plenty of chaos as part of a struggling team—but fate (or Jayden’s very persistent meddling!) keeps throwing them together: coffee runs, park walks, random run-ins all over the city. For a guy who lives for competition, winning her over quickly becomes his favourite challenge… and he’s convinced she’s not nearly as unshakeable as she acts.
It’s such a fun, addictive read—full of that tense, delicious push-and-pull, laugh-out-loud dialogue, and all the warm, fuzzy feels you crave. I devoured every page and can’t wait for more! 💛🏒
November 4, 2026
Stella is a strong, independent, smart, and successful woman. She walks her dog as usual and bumps into Jayden, a hottie hockey player, at a dog park. Little does she know that this encounter would lead to the thing that she tries to avoid the most, the relationship.
This sport romance is very fun and quick to read. The chemistry between the main characters is so effortless and natural. And I also think this is the best part of the book (but kind of decline a bit as the story goes). This book is quite steamy, with the classic ‘he falls first’ and ‘golden-retriever boy’. However, I lost interests in several parts throughout the book. Very low in drama so I kind of lay back in some parts. I kind of need a bit more depth. I think a bit more tensions would be great. Additionally, the scenes are sometimes too descriptive, telling everything that happens.
Still, the topic such as the fear of commitment is carefully introduced in the story. Stella is super independence, which reflect a lot of women in the current society. (love this!)
Last but not least, the dogs are so adorable.
Thank you the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for an ARC in an exchange for an honest review.
This sport romance is very fun and quick to read. The chemistry between the main characters is so effortless and natural. And I also think this is the best part of the book (but kind of decline a bit as the story goes). This book is quite steamy, with the classic ‘he falls first’ and ‘golden-retriever boy’. However, I lost interests in several parts throughout the book. Very low in drama so I kind of lay back in some parts. I kind of need a bit more depth. I think a bit more tensions would be great. Additionally, the scenes are sometimes too descriptive, telling everything that happens.
Still, the topic such as the fear of commitment is carefully introduced in the story. Stella is super independence, which reflect a lot of women in the current society. (love this!)
Last but not least, the dogs are so adorable.
Thank you the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for an ARC in an exchange for an honest review.
October 17, 2026
I love reading Kelly Jamison, her books always deliver but this one was a miss for me. I tried to be interested in Stella and Jaden‘s story but they just did not hold my interest. Stella just did not grab a hold of me like previous FMC’s from Kelly’s books. This book just didn’t have the chemistry or the banter that I usually get from a Kelly Jamison book. I will definitely continue to read her.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this Arc.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this Arc.
October 24, 2026
This was so fun to read!
Living for how down bad Jayden was for Stella from the moment they met. How he spent the entire book hers even when she tried so hard to stop it from happening. He fell first and harder. Age gap romance where she’s the older one. The smut was so delicious. Swoony, spicy and silly.
Will definitely come back for the rest of the series. Thank you to NetGalley for the arc copy!
Living for how down bad Jayden was for Stella from the moment they met. How he spent the entire book hers even when she tried so hard to stop it from happening. He fell first and harder. Age gap romance where she’s the older one. The smut was so delicious. Swoony, spicy and silly.
Will definitely come back for the rest of the series. Thank you to NetGalley for the arc copy!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Kelly Jamieson sure knows how to write hockey romance, and she proves it once again with Hard to Get. This book is a light, engaging, and incredibly easy-to-read contemporary sports romance that hits so many right notes. What I loved most was the fantastic blend of tropes and dynamics. The meet-cute involving a dog absolutely stole my heart right from the beginning. Jamieson strikes the perfect balance here between emotional pining and lighthearted laughter, anchored by deeply likeable characters. Speaking of the characters, Jayden is an absolute standout. He is the ultimate "green flag" hockey player—sweet, supportive, and just completely charming. The only reason this isn't a full 5-star read for me is that it didn't quite have the addictive, unputdownable pull of the Jersey Storm series. While it's a stellar romance, it lacked a tiny bit of the intensity that made me fall so hard for her previous books. Overall, if you are looking for a feel-good, low-angst hockey romance with great banter and an adorable pup, I highly recommend picking this one up!
My thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
My thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
September 25, 2026
2.5 that I'm rounding down to a 2
There are so many hockey romances out there and while this one isn't terrible, there's nothing about it that sets it apart or makes it memorable in any way by comparison. I honestly thought a lot of the writing came off pretty juvenile and because of that, I had trouble connecting to the characters. Stella and Jayden were fine but their dogs were the real stars of the show which isn't exactly what you want in a romance novel.
I didn't think a lot of the dialogue was organic either, it felt like I was reading a book, if that makes sense. Jayden in particular was written in such a way that came off incredibly inauthentic. I want to be immersed in the world and feel like I'm part of it and to get invested in the story and the characters, not to feel like there are a bunch of points on a storyboard that the author needs to hit.
There are so many hockey romances out there and while this one isn't terrible, there's nothing about it that sets it apart or makes it memorable in any way by comparison. I honestly thought a lot of the writing came off pretty juvenile and because of that, I had trouble connecting to the characters. Stella and Jayden were fine but their dogs were the real stars of the show which isn't exactly what you want in a romance novel.
I didn't think a lot of the dialogue was organic either, it felt like I was reading a book, if that makes sense. Jayden in particular was written in such a way that came off incredibly inauthentic. I want to be immersed in the world and feel like I'm part of it and to get invested in the story and the characters, not to feel like there are a bunch of points on a storyboard that the author needs to hit.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you very much to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Unfortunately, I DNF'd this book after being 35% in but I think that was because I did not immediately bond with the writing style. This is a very cute, quick rom-com packed with Disney movie meet-cutes (did I mention they meet when their dogs find each other in the dog park??? Somebody cue the 101 Dalmatians song). I think right now I am just looking for more from the characters as individuals. For instance, I wanted more information on the FMC's friends and it seemed like she just said "I was out to dinner with so and so" and I was just looking for more from the characters. I thought there was some incredible depth to be had in these characters and I was not receiving that at the level I had hoped for. Even a few chapters of the characters by themselves in the beginning where I can bond more with them as people would help me feel a little more connected to this book. This book is a great epitome of a quick, light, sports romance with a man who is clearly down bad for a woman who is probably way out of his league but we love it. Just because it is not what I am looking for right now, doesn't mean I don't think that other people will appreciate the levity, banter, and easy story telling demonstrated by the author.
Unfortunately, I DNF'd this book after being 35% in but I think that was because I did not immediately bond with the writing style. This is a very cute, quick rom-com packed with Disney movie meet-cutes (did I mention they meet when their dogs find each other in the dog park??? Somebody cue the 101 Dalmatians song). I think right now I am just looking for more from the characters as individuals. For instance, I wanted more information on the FMC's friends and it seemed like she just said "I was out to dinner with so and so" and I was just looking for more from the characters. I thought there was some incredible depth to be had in these characters and I was not receiving that at the level I had hoped for. Even a few chapters of the characters by themselves in the beginning where I can bond more with them as people would help me feel a little more connected to this book. This book is a great epitome of a quick, light, sports romance with a man who is clearly down bad for a woman who is probably way out of his league but we love it. Just because it is not what I am looking for right now, doesn't mean I don't think that other people will appreciate the levity, banter, and easy story telling demonstrated by the author.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐ Rating: 3.75 Stars.
✨ The Vibe
A cute, cozy hockey romance with an adorable dog-park meeting, a slightly older FMC, plenty of chemistry, and two pugs who honestly deserve some credit for making this relationship happen. 😂
📚 What the Book Is About (No Spoilers)
Stella has built a life she loves and has no interest in letting a relationship complicate it. She has her own successful business, great friends, a beautiful home, and Betty, her very spoiled pug.
Then she meets Jayden, a professional hockey player, when their dogs get their leashes tangled at the park (hypothetically speaking). What starts as a cute encounter quickly turns into something more when they keep running into each other around the city. Jayden is convinced it's fate, while Stella is determined to keep him at arm's length.
🖤 My Reading Experience
I really liked Stella and Jayden from the beginning, and their meeting at the dog park was absolutely adorable. They both have pugs, so Betty and Frank definitely deserve some credit for bringing these two together. 😂 In fact, they may have been my favorite duo in the entire book.
I also really enjoyed the age gap between Stella and Jayden, with Stella being five years older. I appreciated that it wasn't treated like some huge obstacle or source of unnecessary drama. Jayden is "only" 25, but he's already been playing professional hockey for several years, and he's actually really mature.
The hockey storyline was another highlight for me. I liked getting a glimpse into a team that isn't exactly having its best season rather than following the usual "star player on the most successful team" storyline. It gave the hockey side of the book a little more depth and also created some interesting possibilities for the rest of the series.
I particularly liked Stella's knowledge of hockey statistics. It was a fun way to incorporate her intelligence and career into the story, rather than having hockey exist purely as Jayden's world. Their lives felt like they had their own identities outside of the romance, which I appreciated.
I also thought the overall concept was refreshing. Stella is older, successful, independent, and very clear about the life she's built for herself, while Jayden never felt immature simply because he was younger. I liked their dynamic and found the story easy to get into.
💭 What Didn't Fully Work for Me
The ending felt a little abrupt for me. Some of the issues that had been building throughout the story were resolved quite quickly, and I would've liked a little more time to actually experience those resolutions with Stella and Jayden rather than having everything wrap up so quickly.
It didn't ruin the reading experience for me, but I definitely finished the book wishing I had a little more time with them toward the end.
🔥 Tropes & Elements
- Hockey romance
- Age gap with an older FMC
- Meet-cute
- Friends-to-lovers vibes
- Professional athlete
- Dog parents
- Cozy romance
💔 Emotional Impact
This was definitely more of a lighthearted, feel-good romance for me than an emotionally intense one, and I think that's exactly where it works best. I enjoyed watching Stella slowly let Jayden into the life she'd carefully built for herself, while Jayden was refreshingly confident about what he wanted.
And honestly, Betty and Frank were doing half the emotional work anyway. 😂❤️
🫶 Final Thoughts
Overall, I really enjoyed Hard to Get. It has a strong premise, likeable main characters, an interesting hockey storyline, and enough romance and cozy moments to make it an easy, enjoyable read.
I especially appreciated the age-gap dynamic and the fact that Stella being older didn't turn into unnecessary drama. I also loved seeing her bring her own knowledge and intelligence into the hockey storyline.
The ending could have been given a little more room to breathe, but otherwise this was a fun and cozy hockey romance that kept me engaged throughout. And obviously, Betty and Frank remain the true stars of the book. 😂
📢 Disclosure: Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with an ARC. As always, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
✨ The Vibe
A cute, cozy hockey romance with an adorable dog-park meeting, a slightly older FMC, plenty of chemistry, and two pugs who honestly deserve some credit for making this relationship happen. 😂
📚 What the Book Is About (No Spoilers)
Stella has built a life she loves and has no interest in letting a relationship complicate it. She has her own successful business, great friends, a beautiful home, and Betty, her very spoiled pug.
Then she meets Jayden, a professional hockey player, when their dogs get their leashes tangled at the park (hypothetically speaking). What starts as a cute encounter quickly turns into something more when they keep running into each other around the city. Jayden is convinced it's fate, while Stella is determined to keep him at arm's length.
🖤 My Reading Experience
I really liked Stella and Jayden from the beginning, and their meeting at the dog park was absolutely adorable. They both have pugs, so Betty and Frank definitely deserve some credit for bringing these two together. 😂 In fact, they may have been my favorite duo in the entire book.
I also really enjoyed the age gap between Stella and Jayden, with Stella being five years older. I appreciated that it wasn't treated like some huge obstacle or source of unnecessary drama. Jayden is "only" 25, but he's already been playing professional hockey for several years, and he's actually really mature.
The hockey storyline was another highlight for me. I liked getting a glimpse into a team that isn't exactly having its best season rather than following the usual "star player on the most successful team" storyline. It gave the hockey side of the book a little more depth and also created some interesting possibilities for the rest of the series.
I particularly liked Stella's knowledge of hockey statistics. It was a fun way to incorporate her intelligence and career into the story, rather than having hockey exist purely as Jayden's world. Their lives felt like they had their own identities outside of the romance, which I appreciated.
I also thought the overall concept was refreshing. Stella is older, successful, independent, and very clear about the life she's built for herself, while Jayden never felt immature simply because he was younger. I liked their dynamic and found the story easy to get into.
💭 What Didn't Fully Work for Me
The ending felt a little abrupt for me. Some of the issues that had been building throughout the story were resolved quite quickly, and I would've liked a little more time to actually experience those resolutions with Stella and Jayden rather than having everything wrap up so quickly.
It didn't ruin the reading experience for me, but I definitely finished the book wishing I had a little more time with them toward the end.
🔥 Tropes & Elements
- Hockey romance
- Age gap with an older FMC
- Meet-cute
- Friends-to-lovers vibes
- Professional athlete
- Dog parents
- Cozy romance
💔 Emotional Impact
This was definitely more of a lighthearted, feel-good romance for me than an emotionally intense one, and I think that's exactly where it works best. I enjoyed watching Stella slowly let Jayden into the life she'd carefully built for herself, while Jayden was refreshingly confident about what he wanted.
And honestly, Betty and Frank were doing half the emotional work anyway. 😂❤️
🫶 Final Thoughts
Overall, I really enjoyed Hard to Get. It has a strong premise, likeable main characters, an interesting hockey storyline, and enough romance and cozy moments to make it an easy, enjoyable read.
I especially appreciated the age-gap dynamic and the fact that Stella being older didn't turn into unnecessary drama. I also loved seeing her bring her own knowledge and intelligence into the hockey storyline.
The ending could have been given a little more room to breathe, but otherwise this was a fun and cozy hockey romance that kept me engaged throughout. And obviously, Betty and Frank remain the true stars of the book. 😂
📢 Disclosure: Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with an ARC. As always, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC received from NetGalley and Boldwood Books in exchange for honest review.
⚡REVIEW⚡
This hockey romance is the perfect palate cleanser - gentle, sweet and very enjoyable. .
FMC Stella is a career driven woman, works incredibly hard and is very content with being single. She's got her stats business, her dog, her orchids, her own home. She sees her friends. There's one thing missing - but not in Stella's opinion. She does not need a man. She doesn't believe love will last, and she doesn't even want to try and find out. So when she locks eyes with Jayden, even though she gets butterflies, she knows it won't get serious. When they meet spontaneously for the third time, she's still very much set on whatever happens next remaining casual. But she doesn't count on Jayden being an A* golden retriever. And the more they see each other, the harder she finds it to pull away.
Jayden is one of the sweetest MMCs I've ever read. Seriously, this guy is green flag after green flag. He's a dad to a dog he adores, he gets Stella heatpads when she has cramps, he brings her to O to try and ease them, he talks to her about her experiences with no judgment or advice, just sits and listens and gives her affirmations. He's adorable. A hockey player for a team who are performing badly, he's struggling with morale, but when he spots Stella across the dog park, he is starstruck. Despite her knocking him back the first time, he manages to sway her into going out with him. And he knows this woman has her own life, that she is independent and sure of herself, but he hopes he can carve out a bit of space there for him. When she helps him out with stats, he starts to feel a little better about his hockey playing, and knows he is falling for her. But this is a romance novel, and love does not ever run to plan in a romance novel!
I have to give a quick shout-out to Betty and Frank. These two cuties have a big part to play in the story, and I so looked forward to scenes they featured in! I can just picture them together. Adorable.
I really liked the way Kelly Jamieson used family dynamics and a big occasion to bring about the third act breakup. It showed just how big an impact Stella's childhood had had on her thought processes when it comes to love and relationships, along with her dating history. The same goes for Jayden and his history in hockey, and how it has impacted on how he behaves as part of the team. These nods to how trauma responses are formed were well informed and executed brilliantly.
If you've read my sports romance reviews, you know I like actual sports content in them, and I'm pleased to say that there was plenty of hockey in this - be it statistics (that honestly went way over my head!), actual game descriptions or post mortem conversations between Jayden and his teammates. There was a sense of camaraderie between some of the team and discord with others, which I'm hoping will be explored in further books should this be part of a series (I'm hoping for an LG book!). I'm desperate to know what the beef is about with Cammy and Bish!
I enjoyed Hard to Get. It was easy to get into, the spice was just right for these characters, and the jeopardy of whether Stella would do the right thing or not kept me turning pages, with a very satisfying HEA. Great stuff!
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to review this book!
⚡REVIEW⚡
This hockey romance is the perfect palate cleanser - gentle, sweet and very enjoyable. .
FMC Stella is a career driven woman, works incredibly hard and is very content with being single. She's got her stats business, her dog, her orchids, her own home. She sees her friends. There's one thing missing - but not in Stella's opinion. She does not need a man. She doesn't believe love will last, and she doesn't even want to try and find out. So when she locks eyes with Jayden, even though she gets butterflies, she knows it won't get serious. When they meet spontaneously for the third time, she's still very much set on whatever happens next remaining casual. But she doesn't count on Jayden being an A* golden retriever. And the more they see each other, the harder she finds it to pull away.
Jayden is one of the sweetest MMCs I've ever read. Seriously, this guy is green flag after green flag. He's a dad to a dog he adores, he gets Stella heatpads when she has cramps, he brings her to O to try and ease them, he talks to her about her experiences with no judgment or advice, just sits and listens and gives her affirmations. He's adorable. A hockey player for a team who are performing badly, he's struggling with morale, but when he spots Stella across the dog park, he is starstruck. Despite her knocking him back the first time, he manages to sway her into going out with him. And he knows this woman has her own life, that she is independent and sure of herself, but he hopes he can carve out a bit of space there for him. When she helps him out with stats, he starts to feel a little better about his hockey playing, and knows he is falling for her. But this is a romance novel, and love does not ever run to plan in a romance novel!
I have to give a quick shout-out to Betty and Frank. These two cuties have a big part to play in the story, and I so looked forward to scenes they featured in! I can just picture them together. Adorable.
I really liked the way Kelly Jamieson used family dynamics and a big occasion to bring about the third act breakup. It showed just how big an impact Stella's childhood had had on her thought processes when it comes to love and relationships, along with her dating history. The same goes for Jayden and his history in hockey, and how it has impacted on how he behaves as part of the team. These nods to how trauma responses are formed were well informed and executed brilliantly.
If you've read my sports romance reviews, you know I like actual sports content in them, and I'm pleased to say that there was plenty of hockey in this - be it statistics (that honestly went way over my head!), actual game descriptions or post mortem conversations between Jayden and his teammates. There was a sense of camaraderie between some of the team and discord with others, which I'm hoping will be explored in further books should this be part of a series (I'm hoping for an LG book!). I'm desperate to know what the beef is about with Cammy and Bish!
I enjoyed Hard to Get. It was easy to get into, the spice was just right for these characters, and the jeopardy of whether Stella would do the right thing or not kept me turning pages, with a very satisfying HEA. Great stuff!
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to review this book!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
After reading two books from Kelly Jamieson's "New Jersey Storm" series, I couldn't wait to see what she had planned next. This is the first book in her new Vancouver series, and I really enjoyed being introduced to this new group of characters. I liked Stella and Jayden right away, especially their adorable meet cute at the dog park. They both have pugs, so I feel like Betty and Frank deserve at least some credit for bringing these two together! As a bit of a "math nerd" myself, I also loved having a FMC who genuinely enjoys statistics. Give me romance and data, and apparently I am very easy to please.
I also enjoyed the age gap between Stella and Jayden, with Stella being five years older. It isn't made into a huge issue, which I appreciated. It did, however, put into perspective just how young many hockey players are when they go pro. Jayden is only 25 but has already spent several years in the league. I also liked seeing a different side of professional hockey through a team that isn't exactly having its best season. That storyline gives the series somewhere interesting to go in future books.
Stella was definitely the one I wanted to shake a few times. 😂 Her family history has had a major impact on the way she views love and relationships, and she is determined not to repeat some of the patterns she grew up watching. I could understand why she had built those walls, even when I wanted her to get out of her own way. Jayden, meanwhile, was very easy to root for, and I loved watching him slowly challenge some of Stella's ideas about relationships without trying to change who she was.
Overall, I really enjoyed Stella and Jayden's story. Between the hockey, the stats, the age gap, and two scene-stealing pugs, there was a lot here that worked for me. Their relationship was fun to follow, and I liked that there are still some things left unresolved within the larger hockey world. This was a great start to the Vancouver series, and I am already looking forward to seeing which characters we get to know next.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
I also enjoyed the age gap between Stella and Jayden, with Stella being five years older. It isn't made into a huge issue, which I appreciated. It did, however, put into perspective just how young many hockey players are when they go pro. Jayden is only 25 but has already spent several years in the league. I also liked seeing a different side of professional hockey through a team that isn't exactly having its best season. That storyline gives the series somewhere interesting to go in future books.
Stella was definitely the one I wanted to shake a few times. 😂 Her family history has had a major impact on the way she views love and relationships, and she is determined not to repeat some of the patterns she grew up watching. I could understand why she had built those walls, even when I wanted her to get out of her own way. Jayden, meanwhile, was very easy to root for, and I loved watching him slowly challenge some of Stella's ideas about relationships without trying to change who she was.
Overall, I really enjoyed Stella and Jayden's story. Between the hockey, the stats, the age gap, and two scene-stealing pugs, there was a lot here that worked for me. Their relationship was fun to follow, and I liked that there are still some things left unresolved within the larger hockey world. This was a great start to the Vancouver series, and I am already looking forward to seeing which characters we get to know next.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Hard to Get was such a sweet and lighthearted hockey romance! It was exactly the kind of book I was in the mood for: an easy, cozy read with plenty of romance, chemistry, and just the right amount of spice.
Jayden was definitely one of my favorite parts of the story. He is the definition of a golden retriever MMC: sweet, caring, affectionate, and absolutely adorable. I really enjoyed watching him fall for Stella, especially because he definitely falls first and harder. His feelings for her were so genuine and sweet, and he was just impossible not to love.
I have to admit that I struggled a little to connect with Stella at first. However, as the story progressed, I started to understand her personality much better and, more importantly, the experiences that had shaped her. I really appreciated getting to see the reasons behind some of her choices and the way she approached relationships.
I also really liked that Stella was portrayed as a strong and independent woman who knows that she doesn't need a man to feel complete. A relationship is something that can enrich her life, not something she needs in order to have a fulfilling one. I thought this was a lovely aspect of her character and something that made her relationship with Jayden even more enjoyable to read.
The romance was definitely a highlight for me. There was plenty of chemistry between Stella and Jayden, and I thought the amount of spice was just right for the story. The intimate scenes were well written and balanced nicely with the sweeter and more romantic moments.
Kelly Jamieson's writing was another positive for me. Her style is smooth and easy to follow, which made the book flow really well and made it an enjoyable, relaxing read.
Overall, I really enjoyed Hard to Get. It's a sweet, feel-good hockey romance that I would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a lighthearted story with a lovable golden retriever MMC who falls first and harder, plenty of romance and spice, and a strong, independent FMC who knows exactly who she is.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Kelly Jamieson for the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Jayden was definitely one of my favorite parts of the story. He is the definition of a golden retriever MMC: sweet, caring, affectionate, and absolutely adorable. I really enjoyed watching him fall for Stella, especially because he definitely falls first and harder. His feelings for her were so genuine and sweet, and he was just impossible not to love.
I have to admit that I struggled a little to connect with Stella at first. However, as the story progressed, I started to understand her personality much better and, more importantly, the experiences that had shaped her. I really appreciated getting to see the reasons behind some of her choices and the way she approached relationships.
I also really liked that Stella was portrayed as a strong and independent woman who knows that she doesn't need a man to feel complete. A relationship is something that can enrich her life, not something she needs in order to have a fulfilling one. I thought this was a lovely aspect of her character and something that made her relationship with Jayden even more enjoyable to read.
The romance was definitely a highlight for me. There was plenty of chemistry between Stella and Jayden, and I thought the amount of spice was just right for the story. The intimate scenes were well written and balanced nicely with the sweeter and more romantic moments.
Kelly Jamieson's writing was another positive for me. Her style is smooth and easy to follow, which made the book flow really well and made it an enjoyable, relaxing read.
Overall, I really enjoyed Hard to Get. It's a sweet, feel-good hockey romance that I would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a lighthearted story with a lovable golden retriever MMC who falls first and harder, plenty of romance and spice, and a strong, independent FMC who knows exactly who she is.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Kelly Jamieson for the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This started out rather adorably when pro hockey player Jayden and stats whiz Stella meet at a dog park as a result of their two almost identical pugs becoming fast friends. From there it quickly moves into an immediate attraction between two seemingly opposite people leading very different lives.
Stella is the older of the pair by five years. She's always loved data and co-owns a successful and expanding sports data analysis company that coincidentally has just installed a new system for all of the pro hockey teams to analyze their player stats. She's 30, very competent, and is fully settled into a life she loves, single by choice, owner of a sweet pug named Betty, with a great group of friends, and no desire to get romantically entangled. Jayden is one of the better performers on a struggling team. Although he's "only" 25, he's mature beyond his years due to having been on the hockey fast track for years, spending a lot of time away from his family as a teen and now playing at the pro level for several years.
Jayden knows right away that Stella is something special and wants to pursue a real relationship. She's more hesitant, having grown up with divorced parents, a father addicted to gambling and a mother who only felt self-worth when she was in a relationship. She sees all of Jayden's green flags, like his caring and consideration for others and his advocacy work with teens to teach them how to speak out if they witness something wrong, but she can't let herself fall for him, afraid she will repeat her mother's destructive patterns.
Still, they are so perfect for each other (and their pugs are so in love also), that those feelings can't be denied forever. This was a total feel good story and a great start to a new series, with two attractive and likable MCs, and there's no way to resist those adorable pugs! I love that it's set in Vancouver, one of my favorite cities, and that the team has been experiencing hard times, so there's plenty of room for them to grow. My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
Stella is the older of the pair by five years. She's always loved data and co-owns a successful and expanding sports data analysis company that coincidentally has just installed a new system for all of the pro hockey teams to analyze their player stats. She's 30, very competent, and is fully settled into a life she loves, single by choice, owner of a sweet pug named Betty, with a great group of friends, and no desire to get romantically entangled. Jayden is one of the better performers on a struggling team. Although he's "only" 25, he's mature beyond his years due to having been on the hockey fast track for years, spending a lot of time away from his family as a teen and now playing at the pro level for several years.
Jayden knows right away that Stella is something special and wants to pursue a real relationship. She's more hesitant, having grown up with divorced parents, a father addicted to gambling and a mother who only felt self-worth when she was in a relationship. She sees all of Jayden's green flags, like his caring and consideration for others and his advocacy work with teens to teach them how to speak out if they witness something wrong, but she can't let herself fall for him, afraid she will repeat her mother's destructive patterns.
Still, they are so perfect for each other (and their pugs are so in love also), that those feelings can't be denied forever. This was a total feel good story and a great start to a new series, with two attractive and likable MCs, and there's no way to resist those adorable pugs! I love that it's set in Vancouver, one of my favorite cities, and that the team has been experiencing hard times, so there's plenty of room for them to grow. My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a quick easy read, I flew through it.
I instantly liked their banter and chemistry. They kept bumping into each other and their attraction grew. They met at a dog park. I loved the dogs, two main characters with dogs and dogs who love each other at that!
They start seeing each other, she says it’s casual, he agrees. They basically start acting like a couple, just without saying it. They both fell for each other, Jayden fell harder. It took Stella a little bit longer to realise her own actual feelings. I liked both the main characters, mostly. The FMC, Stella was a bit annoying at times. I got the thought process behind it all but it just didn’t work for me. I felt someone who had the experiences she had, would be more aware. I liked that she had her own business and was independent. She needs to work on her communication skills, STAT.
The author doesn’t say it explicitly, but you can come to your own conclusion about the situation Jayden confides in Stella about. My heart broke for him. He goes and speaks at events for kids, and he’s trying to actively bring change. Weed out the disgusting toxic behaviour. Let them know it’s okay to not be okay, that it’s okay to talk about feelings, and to speak out when things are inappropriate/ uncomfortable.
I would’ve loved if we got to see on page Jayden and his teammates talking out their issues. Especially now. It is 2026 and I wonder if things are going backwards instead of forwards. Just this year alone, particularly in Canada, there’s been several cases involving hockey players for sexual assault, and other forms of abuse.
I read the authors previous book, and thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books, and Kelly Jamieson for providing an advanced readers copy in exchange for a voluntary, honest review.
I instantly liked their banter and chemistry. They kept bumping into each other and their attraction grew. They met at a dog park. I loved the dogs, two main characters with dogs and dogs who love each other at that!
They start seeing each other, she says it’s casual, he agrees. They basically start acting like a couple, just without saying it. They both fell for each other, Jayden fell harder. It took Stella a little bit longer to realise her own actual feelings. I liked both the main characters, mostly. The FMC, Stella was a bit annoying at times. I got the thought process behind it all but it just didn’t work for me. I felt someone who had the experiences she had, would be more aware. I liked that she had her own business and was independent. She needs to work on her communication skills, STAT.
The author doesn’t say it explicitly, but you can come to your own conclusion about the situation Jayden confides in Stella about. My heart broke for him. He goes and speaks at events for kids, and he’s trying to actively bring change. Weed out the disgusting toxic behaviour. Let them know it’s okay to not be okay, that it’s okay to talk about feelings, and to speak out when things are inappropriate/ uncomfortable.
I would’ve loved if we got to see on page Jayden and his teammates talking out their issues. Especially now. It is 2026 and I wonder if things are going backwards instead of forwards. Just this year alone, particularly in Canada, there’s been several cases involving hockey players for sexual assault, and other forms of abuse.
I read the authors previous book, and thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books, and Kelly Jamieson for providing an advanced readers copy in exchange for a voluntary, honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I found this engaging, passionate hockey romance quite captivating, holding my interest from start to finish.
This is Stella and Jayden’s journey to their happily ever after and what a wonderful, fun and sizzling journey.
Jayden Wood serves as a professional hockey defenseman on the Vancouver Orcas’ first line. After enduring difficult seasons in the league, the team has appointed a new coach, and Jayden hopes this shift will reverse their losses.
Stella is a capable, accomplished woman occupied with engaging pursuits and a fulfilling life. She owns a condo, keeps a charming pug named Betty, and enjoys cultivating orchids. Her enterprise centers on a hockey statistics application she created during high school. The business is expanding as she collaborates with the NHL to collect additional player data.
Despite this full life and earlier experiences with rejection, betrayal, and abandonment, she does not seek or require a partner—until her pug entangles her with a striking man at the dog park. It is a thoroughly delightful, charming meet-cute.
These two keep crossing paths, as if fate or serendipity guided them before they learned each other’s names. Their attraction and chemistry were apparent from the initial meet-cute. Soon they are dating with their pugs in tow. Although Stella prefers a casual arrangement, the pair may be growing into something deeper…Will she realize that “Love” is a leap of faith, and he just might be worth the risk. You will need to read to get all the spicy details.
I received an early copy through NetGalley and the publisher and this is my honest review.
This is Stella and Jayden’s journey to their happily ever after and what a wonderful, fun and sizzling journey.
Jayden Wood serves as a professional hockey defenseman on the Vancouver Orcas’ first line. After enduring difficult seasons in the league, the team has appointed a new coach, and Jayden hopes this shift will reverse their losses.
Stella is a capable, accomplished woman occupied with engaging pursuits and a fulfilling life. She owns a condo, keeps a charming pug named Betty, and enjoys cultivating orchids. Her enterprise centers on a hockey statistics application she created during high school. The business is expanding as she collaborates with the NHL to collect additional player data.
Despite this full life and earlier experiences with rejection, betrayal, and abandonment, she does not seek or require a partner—until her pug entangles her with a striking man at the dog park. It is a thoroughly delightful, charming meet-cute.
These two keep crossing paths, as if fate or serendipity guided them before they learned each other’s names. Their attraction and chemistry were apparent from the initial meet-cute. Soon they are dating with their pugs in tow. Although Stella prefers a casual arrangement, the pair may be growing into something deeper…Will she realize that “Love” is a leap of faith, and he just might be worth the risk. You will need to read to get all the spicy details.
I received an early copy through NetGalley and the publisher and this is my honest review.
September 27, 2026
Hard to get was a truly enjoyable read. The unfolding of Stella & Jaden’s love story was interesting & nuanced. Realistic in a way that a lot of romance novels aren’t.
The characters growth was well portrayed, as well as their conversations & personal shares. Making them more realistic characters rather than perfectly scripted ones.
I very much appreciated having a hockey book where the team isn’t the best 😅 I haven’t read any romance novels featuring hockey where the team & players aren’t really really good. It was such a nice discovery & a welcome change. To have characters with challenges & struggles that aren’t brushed off & resolved in a few pages or book. While still getting our romantic happy end & the main characters growth.
There was some very real subjects being brought up. The behind the scene of hockey & the making money out of gambling business models. Bringing real world issues onto the pages & having characters engage with those while trying to handle things better, honor their values & make a difference.
Stella & Jayden’s dogs, as well as the fate conversation, were such beautiful sparkly parts of the story & well sprinkled. I really liked it.
I liked the story, the unfolding of it, the characters, the side characters. I just wished the story telling was a bit smoother. It felt a bit rocky to me at times. Like being in a nice car, enjoying the trip & landscape going to my destination but the road being a bit bumpy. Best way I can explain what I mean ahah.
The author really pushed herself with all the stats. Honestly, less details of those would have been perfect for me 😊
The characters growth was well portrayed, as well as their conversations & personal shares. Making them more realistic characters rather than perfectly scripted ones.
I very much appreciated having a hockey book where the team isn’t the best 😅 I haven’t read any romance novels featuring hockey where the team & players aren’t really really good. It was such a nice discovery & a welcome change. To have characters with challenges & struggles that aren’t brushed off & resolved in a few pages or book. While still getting our romantic happy end & the main characters growth.
There was some very real subjects being brought up. The behind the scene of hockey & the making money out of gambling business models. Bringing real world issues onto the pages & having characters engage with those while trying to handle things better, honor their values & make a difference.
Stella & Jayden’s dogs, as well as the fate conversation, were such beautiful sparkly parts of the story & well sprinkled. I really liked it.
I liked the story, the unfolding of it, the characters, the side characters. I just wished the story telling was a bit smoother. It felt a bit rocky to me at times. Like being in a nice car, enjoying the trip & landscape going to my destination but the road being a bit bumpy. Best way I can explain what I mean ahah.
The author really pushed herself with all the stats. Honestly, less details of those would have been perfect for me 😊
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Hard to Get was an enjoyable hockey romance with plenty of the tropes you’d expect from the genre, including a reverse age gap, a strong, independent FMC and a seriously sweet, cinnamon-roll MMC.
I liked Stella the FMC as a character. She’s successful, confident and very much has the attitude that she doesn’t need a man to complete her life, which I always enjoy seeing in a romance. I also loved that she works in STEM as a statistician/data analyst. I actually would have liked to see more of this side of her career. Jayden was easy to like. He’s a cinnamon-roll hero, and I enjoyed the contrast between his softer personality and the fact that he’s a professional hockey player.
Ultimately, this was an okay read for me. I’ve read a lot of hockey romance, so I think I’m at the point where I need something that feels a little different to really stand out. The tropes here were enjoyable, but familiar.
I also found some of the teammates and secondary characters a little difficult to keep straight. As this is the first book in the Vancouver series, I wonder if some of that is intentional world-building for future books. I’d definitely be interested to see where the series goes and whether some of these characters get their own stories.
Overall, a fun and easy hockey romance with a great independent heroine and a likeable hero. It just didn’t quite have enough that felt new to me to push it beyond three stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Kelly Jamieson for the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
I liked Stella the FMC as a character. She’s successful, confident and very much has the attitude that she doesn’t need a man to complete her life, which I always enjoy seeing in a romance. I also loved that she works in STEM as a statistician/data analyst. I actually would have liked to see more of this side of her career. Jayden was easy to like. He’s a cinnamon-roll hero, and I enjoyed the contrast between his softer personality and the fact that he’s a professional hockey player.
Ultimately, this was an okay read for me. I’ve read a lot of hockey romance, so I think I’m at the point where I need something that feels a little different to really stand out. The tropes here were enjoyable, but familiar.
I also found some of the teammates and secondary characters a little difficult to keep straight. As this is the first book in the Vancouver series, I wonder if some of that is intentional world-building for future books. I’d definitely be interested to see where the series goes and whether some of these characters get their own stories.
Overall, a fun and easy hockey romance with a great independent heroine and a likeable hero. It just didn’t quite have enough that felt new to me to push it beyond three stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Kelly Jamieson for the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 19, 2026
A new release from a beloved Canadian author, Kelly Jamieson! I can always rely on her to bring me an excellent, steamy, hockey book, and she definitely delivers with Hard to Get.
This one takes place in Canada (many of her previous ones are in NYC), so I very much appreciated that. Not just up here, but out West! So few books take place in Vancouver and Calgary, so that had me hooked from the start, with all the places I know.
Stella is a smart gal, which I also really respect and appreciate being part of this story, and she doesn’t need a guy in her life. She has her numbers, her own place, and an adorable pug named Betty. Jayden is a big deal on the Vancouver Orcas team, but when he meets a beautiful girl with a pug who could be the twin of his own, Frank, he is instantly hooked. She doesn’t seem to know who he is, either!
When they keep running into each other, including at the arena, he knows he has to get her, even if her role in improving the team could be in question, dating a player. But, the dogs need to see each other, regardless of what their humans do! The new series is proving to be a fast favourite of mine - looking forward to more Western Canada hockey romance, and places I’ve been! I highly recommend everyone picking this new release up, as well as reading her back catalogue. There’s always a cute dog involved!
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the early copy. This is my honest feedback.
This one takes place in Canada (many of her previous ones are in NYC), so I very much appreciated that. Not just up here, but out West! So few books take place in Vancouver and Calgary, so that had me hooked from the start, with all the places I know.
Stella is a smart gal, which I also really respect and appreciate being part of this story, and she doesn’t need a guy in her life. She has her numbers, her own place, and an adorable pug named Betty. Jayden is a big deal on the Vancouver Orcas team, but when he meets a beautiful girl with a pug who could be the twin of his own, Frank, he is instantly hooked. She doesn’t seem to know who he is, either!
When they keep running into each other, including at the arena, he knows he has to get her, even if her role in improving the team could be in question, dating a player. But, the dogs need to see each other, regardless of what their humans do! The new series is proving to be a fast favourite of mine - looking forward to more Western Canada hockey romance, and places I’ve been! I highly recommend everyone picking this new release up, as well as reading her back catalogue. There’s always a cute dog involved!
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the early copy. This is my honest feedback.
October 5, 2026
Some 'sports romances' are simply romances where one of the characters happens to play a sport. Others, the sport itself is featured fairly heavily and is an integral part of the plot. Hard to get is the second type. That said, I don't know a great deal about ice hockey, so I can't tell you how accurate it is or how much a die-hard fan would enjoy it.
This is a fun romance between a woman who has her life sorted, more or less. She has a successful business; she does what she wants, when she wants (every woman's dream) so why would she want a man to come and disrupt all of that? Any man that does make his way into her life is there because she wants him, not needs him. Although Jayden is younger than Stella in this book, in many ways he is older than his years and has the maturity and understanding to be the kind of man that Stella would want to be with. Of course, this is a romance book, so as expected, it takes her some time to understand and accept that.
I loved these two. Jayden is just the right kind of understanding and supportive man that a woman like Stella needs, without being a great character in his own right. I loved the growth of these two and how they made such a great couple.
This wasn't a long or complicated read, but one I enjoyed immensely all the same.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
This is a fun romance between a woman who has her life sorted, more or less. She has a successful business; she does what she wants, when she wants (every woman's dream) so why would she want a man to come and disrupt all of that? Any man that does make his way into her life is there because she wants him, not needs him. Although Jayden is younger than Stella in this book, in many ways he is older than his years and has the maturity and understanding to be the kind of man that Stella would want to be with. Of course, this is a romance book, so as expected, it takes her some time to understand and accept that.
I loved these two. Jayden is just the right kind of understanding and supportive man that a woman like Stella needs, without being a great character in his own right. I loved the growth of these two and how they made such a great couple.
This wasn't a long or complicated read, but one I enjoyed immensely all the same.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I fell in love with Kelly Jamieson's books with her New Jersey Strom series (if you haven't read them you really really really neeed to!) So when a new one popped up I knew I had to read this one as well.
If you're a fan of spice and hockey and romance twists then these books are for you.
They're a light and easy read - if you're more of a romance reader then I'd just advise a little caution that it is pretty spicy!
For me this was a solid 4 - whereas the Jersey Storm were a good 5 from me.
The story is sweet and the characters are alright (love the dogs!) and the plot is pretty predictable - but in a comforting, this is why I was here to read it vibe.
The only slight downside is that the other series made me absolutely sob with the backstory for the characters that I was truly drawn into them. There was always another level to the romance / spice / hockey / abs nature to the plot which I really loved.
This one - just didn't quite hit the mark as much as the others did, so I didn't quite feel the same pull to the characters that the other books had brought out in me.
It's going to be a solid recommendation to my book group though and I think a lot of readers will enjoy this one.
4/5
If you're a fan of spice and hockey and romance twists then these books are for you.
They're a light and easy read - if you're more of a romance reader then I'd just advise a little caution that it is pretty spicy!
For me this was a solid 4 - whereas the Jersey Storm were a good 5 from me.
The story is sweet and the characters are alright (love the dogs!) and the plot is pretty predictable - but in a comforting, this is why I was here to read it vibe.
The only slight downside is that the other series made me absolutely sob with the backstory for the characters that I was truly drawn into them. There was always another level to the romance / spice / hockey / abs nature to the plot which I really loved.
This one - just didn't quite hit the mark as much as the others did, so I didn't quite feel the same pull to the characters that the other books had brought out in me.
It's going to be a solid recommendation to my book group though and I think a lot of readers will enjoy this one.
4/5
September 26, 2026
Stella has a life all figured out, she owns a successful business, a beautiful condo, has amazing friends, and a spoiled dog named Betty who takes her entire king-sized bed! Her life is exactly the way she wants it. Experience has taught her that she needs to keep relationships at a distance. A little fun? Fine. Commitment? Absolutely not.
Then she meet Jayden Wood in the park after their dogs nearly tangle their leashes together. He’s charming and way too attractive for Stellas peace of mind. As a pro hockey player stuck on a struggling team, Jayden already has enough chaos in his life. But then their paths keep crossing. At the coffee shop. In the park. Around the city. Jayden calls it fate.
Jayden thrives on competition and has decided Stella is his next challenge—and is determined to prove that she is not as hard to get as she pretends to be.
This was such a fun read. I loved the fun dog park cute meet, amazing chemistry and an adorable pair of dogs. And I really enjoyed to see Jayden having to work to win Stella over and his touch of insecurity because she was so self sufficient. Stella is a successful, independent woman and though Jayden was younger than her, their relationship works and their story easy to read.
Then she meet Jayden Wood in the park after their dogs nearly tangle their leashes together. He’s charming and way too attractive for Stellas peace of mind. As a pro hockey player stuck on a struggling team, Jayden already has enough chaos in his life. But then their paths keep crossing. At the coffee shop. In the park. Around the city. Jayden calls it fate.
Jayden thrives on competition and has decided Stella is his next challenge—and is determined to prove that she is not as hard to get as she pretends to be.
This was such a fun read. I loved the fun dog park cute meet, amazing chemistry and an adorable pair of dogs. And I really enjoyed to see Jayden having to work to win Stella over and his touch of insecurity because she was so self sufficient. Stella is a successful, independent woman and though Jayden was younger than her, their relationship works and their story easy to read.
October 6, 2026
Jayden - be still my heart
Jayden is just perfect: tall (check), ice hockey player (check), sensitive (check), dependable (check), dominant when needed (check), and a dog lover (check).
I absolutely loved Jayden and Stella’s story. Kelly has a real talent for writing page turners that keep you hooked from beginning to end, while still allowing the story to unfold naturally. Nothing feels rushed, and every moment has a purpose.
The characters are incredibly well-developed and feel so real that it’s as if Kelly has climbed inside their heads and brought them to life on the page. Their emotions, fears, and relationships felt authentic, making it easy to become completely invested in their journey.
I especially loved Stella. She’s a refreshing change from the typical FMC - confident, capable, fiercely independent, and already pretty well put together. Rather than fixing her, Jayden simply complements her and makes her life better in all the best ways. Their relationship felt balanced, supportive, and genuine.
Another favourite from Kelly, although, honestly, they all seem to become favourites. This is a superb start to a new series, and I can’t wait to see where it goes next.
Jayden is just perfect: tall (check), ice hockey player (check), sensitive (check), dependable (check), dominant when needed (check), and a dog lover (check).
I absolutely loved Jayden and Stella’s story. Kelly has a real talent for writing page turners that keep you hooked from beginning to end, while still allowing the story to unfold naturally. Nothing feels rushed, and every moment has a purpose.
The characters are incredibly well-developed and feel so real that it’s as if Kelly has climbed inside their heads and brought them to life on the page. Their emotions, fears, and relationships felt authentic, making it easy to become completely invested in their journey.
I especially loved Stella. She’s a refreshing change from the typical FMC - confident, capable, fiercely independent, and already pretty well put together. Rather than fixing her, Jayden simply complements her and makes her life better in all the best ways. Their relationship felt balanced, supportive, and genuine.
Another favourite from Kelly, although, honestly, they all seem to become favourites. This is a superb start to a new series, and I can’t wait to see where it goes next.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Jayden is the definition of a boy down bad for his girl! The initial attraction, pining, and lengths he will go to! Plus, their dogs are part of their meet-cute and have just as strong of a connection?!
Stella is a data analysist which uses her powers to help hockey teams better their players and wining percentages. Remorse over turning down Jayden, she gets her second chance while helping his hockey team. Jayden's hockey team is struggling on the ice, but off the ice, he is romancing Stella and breaking down her barriers against love and relationships. The jokes and humor are unmatched, and Jayden is just such a wonderful human being, trying to right the wrongs in his past and all green flags. Stella has the best of friends, and thankfully has them to turn to when the third act conflict hits, and she questions her motives.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for the arc of Hard to Get in exchange for an honest review. I am excited to read more books by this author as this had all the wonderful aspects in a sports romance. Emotional depth, fantastic characters, laughs and a great love story with just the right amount of pining and spice!
Stella is a data analysist which uses her powers to help hockey teams better their players and wining percentages. Remorse over turning down Jayden, she gets her second chance while helping his hockey team. Jayden's hockey team is struggling on the ice, but off the ice, he is romancing Stella and breaking down her barriers against love and relationships. The jokes and humor are unmatched, and Jayden is just such a wonderful human being, trying to right the wrongs in his past and all green flags. Stella has the best of friends, and thankfully has them to turn to when the third act conflict hits, and she questions her motives.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for the arc of Hard to Get in exchange for an honest review. I am excited to read more books by this author as this had all the wonderful aspects in a sports romance. Emotional depth, fantastic characters, laughs and a great love story with just the right amount of pining and spice!
September 10, 2026
📖 Hard To Get by Kelly Jamieson
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 3,5 stars
I received an ARC of this book thanks to NetGalley, and I requested it because I already knew the chances of me enjoying a hockey romance were pretty high. And honestly, it did not disappoint!
Hard to Get follows Jayden and Stella as their lives and undeniable chemistry collide, bringing together a hockey player and a woman who definitely isn’t looking for an uncomplicated romance. What starts as something that should be easy quickly becomes a lot more complicated as feelings get involved.
I really loved Jayden and Stella’s chemistry and enjoyed their story overall. That being said, I have to admit that I liked Jayden a little more than Stella. I just wish we had gotten a bit more of their backstory, especially Jayden’s. There are hints about some of the things he has been through, but I would have loved to actually explore them more and understand him on a deeper level.
Still, I was absolutely rooting for them and really enjoyed watching their relationship develop. If you’re looking for a fun hockey romance with great chemistry, this one is definitely worth checking out!
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 3,5 stars
I received an ARC of this book thanks to NetGalley, and I requested it because I already knew the chances of me enjoying a hockey romance were pretty high. And honestly, it did not disappoint!
Hard to Get follows Jayden and Stella as their lives and undeniable chemistry collide, bringing together a hockey player and a woman who definitely isn’t looking for an uncomplicated romance. What starts as something that should be easy quickly becomes a lot more complicated as feelings get involved.
I really loved Jayden and Stella’s chemistry and enjoyed their story overall. That being said, I have to admit that I liked Jayden a little more than Stella. I just wish we had gotten a bit more of their backstory, especially Jayden’s. There are hints about some of the things he has been through, but I would have loved to actually explore them more and understand him on a deeper level.
Still, I was absolutely rooting for them and really enjoyed watching their relationship develop. If you’re looking for a fun hockey romance with great chemistry, this one is definitely worth checking out!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Hard To Get by Kelly Jamieson is a fun, steamy hockey romance filled with chemistry, banter, and plenty of heart! Stella was independent, successful, and perfectly happy keeping relationships casual until she meets Jayden, a charming hockey player who is determined to prove that they belong together. I loved the opposites-attract dynamic between these two. Stella’s guarded personality paired perfectly with Jayden’s persistent, caring nature, and their chemistry was impossible to ignore. Their adorable dogs, Betty and Frank, added an extra dose of sweetness and helped make their meet-cute even more memorable. The romance had plenty of spice, but I especially enjoyed the emotional side of the story. Watching Stella slowly lower her walls and Jayden open up made their relationship feel meaningful rather than purely physical. Overall, Hard To Get was an enjoyable hockey romance, with a strong heroine, charming hero, adorable pets, banter, and a healthy dose of steam.
I received an ARC copy from NetGalley. Thank you for giving me the chance to read this novel and share my honest review of the novel
I received an ARC copy from NetGalley. Thank you for giving me the chance to read this novel and share my honest review of the novel
September 28, 2026
Advanced reader copy for NetGalley.
All thoughts and opinions are my own and are not swayed by it being a ARC.
This book follows Stella who is a businesswoman and just looking for a bit of fun, nothing long term and Jayden, a hockey player who isn’t looking for anything in particular but knows what he wants when he finds it. It’s a cozy romance story with a lot of will they, won’t they moments as Stella has a lot of demons she needs to work out before she lets anyone in.
As far as the characters go I found them interesting and funny, Jayden was hilariously cute at times and Stella was a ball buster. I enjoyed the side characters and if this is turned into a series, I’d be interested to see what happens to them. However, I loved the dogs personalities the most 🤣.
As far as the writing style. It was pretty much what you would expect from a romance book, good but a little repetitive at times. It had spice but it wasn’t always thrown in your face and had some really adorable moments.
It’s the first book I’ve read by Kelly Jamieson and I can definitely see myself picking up more of her books in the future when I want a nice easy read.
All thoughts and opinions are my own and are not swayed by it being a ARC.
This book follows Stella who is a businesswoman and just looking for a bit of fun, nothing long term and Jayden, a hockey player who isn’t looking for anything in particular but knows what he wants when he finds it. It’s a cozy romance story with a lot of will they, won’t they moments as Stella has a lot of demons she needs to work out before she lets anyone in.
As far as the characters go I found them interesting and funny, Jayden was hilariously cute at times and Stella was a ball buster. I enjoyed the side characters and if this is turned into a series, I’d be interested to see what happens to them. However, I loved the dogs personalities the most 🤣.
As far as the writing style. It was pretty much what you would expect from a romance book, good but a little repetitive at times. It had spice but it wasn’t always thrown in your face and had some really adorable moments.
It’s the first book I’ve read by Kelly Jamieson and I can definitely see myself picking up more of her books in the future when I want a nice easy read.
October 1, 2026
Kelly Jamieson does it again, hockey romance readers! Get ready to fall in love with Stella and Jayden (and Betty and Frank, obviously!)! This new town and tea
Stella is a driven business woman that is so darn smart! She lives for statistics and I loved her- even though I don’t share the same love of numbers as her!
Jayden is so very cool, calm, collected, hard working, and very aware of himself. As a professional hockey player he isn’t a stranger to hard work, and being on one of the worst teams in the league he has his work cut out for him ... .but Stella also made him work for her heart!
Together Jayden and Stella complemented one another very well- while they are both career driven they are also invested in their friends, their family, and growing as individuals. I think sometimes it is easy for people to invest so much in a relationship that they don’t foster other friendships and both are also focused on their friends and hobbies.
If you enjoy a great meet cute with adorable little fury sidekicks, a romance that burns hot, and couples that complement one another perfectly I cannot recommend this book enough!
Stella is a driven business woman that is so darn smart! She lives for statistics and I loved her- even though I don’t share the same love of numbers as her!
Jayden is so very cool, calm, collected, hard working, and very aware of himself. As a professional hockey player he isn’t a stranger to hard work, and being on one of the worst teams in the league he has his work cut out for him ... .but Stella also made him work for her heart!
Together Jayden and Stella complemented one another very well- while they are both career driven they are also invested in their friends, their family, and growing as individuals. I think sometimes it is easy for people to invest so much in a relationship that they don’t foster other friendships and both are also focused on their friends and hobbies.
If you enjoy a great meet cute with adorable little fury sidekicks, a romance that burns hot, and couples that complement one another perfectly I cannot recommend this book enough!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Hard to Get was such a sweet and emotional hockey romance!
I absolutely loved Stella and Jayden! Stella is independent, successful, and has built a life she loves, but she keeps love at a distance because of what she experienced growing up. I really connected with her fears and loved watching her slowly realize that love doesn’t have to end the way she thinks it will.
And Jayden?! Total cinnamon roll! He falls hard for Stella and he is just so kind and gentle. Watching him slowly break down her walls was EVERYTHING.
I loved their chemistry, all the little moments between them, and the way they kept running into each other until it started feeling like fate. The hockey storyline was also a fun addition, especially watching Jayden try to help his struggling team come together.
I loved that the characters are relatable. I think a lot of people struggle with being in the right place for love and is sometimes scared of it. And we can’t forget about Frank and Betty. I loved these dogs so much, they added just a little extra something more to the story.
I absolutely loved Stella and Jayden! Stella is independent, successful, and has built a life she loves, but she keeps love at a distance because of what she experienced growing up. I really connected with her fears and loved watching her slowly realize that love doesn’t have to end the way she thinks it will.
And Jayden?! Total cinnamon roll! He falls hard for Stella and he is just so kind and gentle. Watching him slowly break down her walls was EVERYTHING.
I loved their chemistry, all the little moments between them, and the way they kept running into each other until it started feeling like fate. The hockey storyline was also a fun addition, especially watching Jayden try to help his struggling team come together.
I loved that the characters are relatable. I think a lot of people struggle with being in the right place for love and is sometimes scared of it. And we can’t forget about Frank and Betty. I loved these dogs so much, they added just a little extra something more to the story.
October 1, 2026
I've read quite a few of Jamieson's works and they are always very enjoyable. This one did not disappoint either. Great characters and I love the twinning pugs in the story. Very well written.
Jayden and Stella randomly meet at the dog park when their two pugs find each other. From that point on it's a little like fate (don't call it that according to Jayden though). They keep seeing each other in the most unexpected places...a clothing store, the ice rink, etc. Stella is very anti relationships but very much up for a fling. Jayden is fine with that at first but then feels a bit like he is always competing with everything else in Stella's life...her job, her friends, her alone time. Whereas Stella is happily single and independent, she wonders if maybe her parents divorce and her own bad relationship are making her "settle" for herself. Both Jayden and Stella have some issues to work through but both are willing to try.
These two seem like the perfect fit and I loved how the story came together. Well written and very enjoyable.
Jayden and Stella randomly meet at the dog park when their two pugs find each other. From that point on it's a little like fate (don't call it that according to Jayden though). They keep seeing each other in the most unexpected places...a clothing store, the ice rink, etc. Stella is very anti relationships but very much up for a fling. Jayden is fine with that at first but then feels a bit like he is always competing with everything else in Stella's life...her job, her friends, her alone time. Whereas Stella is happily single and independent, she wonders if maybe her parents divorce and her own bad relationship are making her "settle" for herself. Both Jayden and Stella have some issues to work through but both are willing to try.
These two seem like the perfect fit and I loved how the story came together. Well written and very enjoyable.
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