Game Misconduct: An M/M Hockey Romance

by Brigham Vaughn

The last thing Tanner Clayton needs is to fall in love with his rival ...

He loves playing defense for the Boston Harriers, hooking up with anyone he wants to, and hanging out with the boys.

Settle down? No way!

Especially not with Leif Rasmussen—top scorer for their divisional rival—who he loves to torment during games.

But the more time Tanner and Leif spend together at skills camps and tournaments, the harder the sparks fly on and off the ice.

As the top line center of the New York Rockets, Leif is desperate to live up to the legacy of his superstar father and hold his team together while their captain is out with a long-term injury.

Tanner is nothing but a distraction … and everything Leif refuses to admit he wants.

And when the Harriers and the Rockets go head-to-head in the playoffs, there’s more than just the Cup on the line …

There’s a chance at love.

Genres: Hockey, Sports, M M Romance, Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Grumpy Sunshine, LGBT

588 pages, Paperback

Published August 6, 2026

About the author

Brigham Vaughn is on the adventure of a lifetime as a full-time writer. She devours books at an alarming rate and hasn’t let her short arms and long torso stop her from doing yoga. She makes a killer key lime pie, hates green peppers, and loves wine tasting tours. A collector of vintage Nancy Drew books and green glassware, she enjoys poking around in antique shops and refinishing thrift store furniture. An avid photographer, she dreams of traveling the world and she can’t wait to discover everything else life has to offer her.

Reviews

[-`♡´- · Rating 5 out of 5]

Did I stay up past midnight to finish this& may regret my choices in the morning? Perhaps.

But…

I love them, your honor 🫡

My precious babies, Tanner and Leif. 💘

And blessed with an upcoming ny hockey series? Yes 🙂‍↕️ plz

[The Secret Librarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 3rd person
Genre: sport romance, MM
Tropes / tags: grumpy / sunshine, rivals to lovers, hookup to more

An entertaining and sweet romance with slow burn feelings between rivals and an absolute adorable and chaotic MC!

A long time rivalry, chirping as foreplay and hate sex - Brigham Vaughn spoiled me with this one! Leif and Tanner were opposites in a lot of ways, and I loved to see them agonising each other on and off the ice. Tanner really knew how to get under Leif's skin, and the tension between them was fantastic!

I truly enjoyed the relationship development in this one, seeing them go from rivals to hooking up, to them slowly starting to feel more for each other. The sneaking around and how explosive things got between them once they were alone together was hot, and I loved their chemistry and playful banter. Tanner was such a fun and loveable character, even if he was chaos incarnated, and it was entertaining to see him trying to get Leif to loosen up and relax.

Leif was dealing with anxiety, and he came across as pretty closed off. It took me a little while to warm up to him, and there was a lot more to him than I expected. I didn't expect Leif to fall first, or to feel so strong and deeply for Tanner as he did, but I loved it. It was both sweet and a little heartbreaking to see him realise his feelings for Tanner, not knowing if Tanner felt the same or would even be open to being in a committed relationship. It added a bit of pining, and I loved how the feelings between them and their communication was portrayed.

Game Misconduct was an excellent ending to the Scoring Chances series. I've enjoyed every book in this series and reading the last book is always a bit bittersweet. Leif and Tanner were definitely characters that shouldn’t work together, but ended up being perfect for each other. I loved the hints about Leif’s dad and ‘his’ goalie, and there were other characters that I’m hoping will get stories as well. If you’re a fan of hockey romances and haven’t picked up this series or Relationship Goals yet, I highly recommend reading both of them!

-
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.

[Maddi Marina · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️

binged the absolute shit out of this like every brigham vaughn book, so bingeable! not one of my favorites, i liked the set up of their relationship, very heated rivalry coded but tanner was a bit too sexual for me, like every thought he had about a person was sexual in some way and i just don’t vibe with those thoughts, but the second half where they admitted their feelings and were working through that was making me smile and really attributed to the half-star bump. i love all the cameos from past couples and am looking forward to moving to the new york team, especially since these two will still be prevalent in it!

😪*the feeling like someone you love doesn’t feel the same way gets me…*

[Aysha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Game Misconduct is the sixth and final book in the Scoring Chances series and can be read as a standalone.

I cannot believe this is Brigham Vaughn’s first time writing rivals to lovers because oh my goodness she is a master at it. This book was spectacular. I was obsessed with Cheap Shot and completely feral about this one. Hands down one of the best stories that Vaughn has ever written. This one is a true masterpiece! Both of these books are absolutely in my favourite reads of this year.

I don’t think I can write all the ways I loved Tanner and Leif’s story. Tanner has a genuine, kind heart and an energetic, contagious charisma that you can’t help but fall in love with.
Leif was really conscientious, hardworking, intelligent and introverted.

I loved everything about their relationship development and individual personal growth. Their chemistry, their deep feelings and devotion towards each other… Just thinking about these two causes tears to swell in my eyes.

I adored that this book had scenes across the two previous books. The plot just hit in a different way that I couldn’t get enough of. I honestly didn’t put this book down. A certain scene was kind of epic. Tanner’s kindness and bravery just shone. I loved how protective Leif and Tanner were of each other!

I was ecstatic to catch up with some couples (Zane & Ryan; Anders & Kelly (one of my favourite Brigham characters); Dustin & Charlie; Nico & Auggie; Jessie & Connor).
I love this team so much!!! The teams in the other series, there was either a bad seed, lots of drama or people in the team that felt left out. Whereas with this one, they are such a solid, supportive found family. They lift each other up and have great chemistry. Luke and Tanner’s heartfelt moment made me so emotional! That they think of each other as family warmed my heart.

The things some people said to Tanner, though not malicious, still seemed unkind and I wish there was a conversation about that. It felt like some characters were trying to put a label on Tanner rather than just accepting him for who he was and it felt a bit uncomfortable to me. The homophobic comments from Leif’s teammates annoyed the hell out of me. I wanted to jump into the book and have an argument with them. But Vaughn wrote this scene and the response to it so well.

What a roller coaster of emotions in this book. These characters were off the charts amazing, the plot was incredible, and my heart loved the journey Tanner and Leif took to get their happily ever after. A truly fabulous read - and one I will revisit many times to come. My heart is full.

I always hate the ending of Vaughn’s hockey series but this one hurt the most. I don’t want to say goodbye to any of them 😭. While I am sad to have turned the last page, the series was wrapped up in a way to give the characters and readers the ending they deserve. I also really want a book for Nicky (and a certain podcaster 🤔), Ian (plus a particular basketball player 👀) and then Leif’s dad (with the NY goalie coach?!). And looking forward to seeing more of Leif and Tanner in these books hopefully!

This book contains realistic depictions of hockey player injuries, mild homophobia from secondary characters, and a side character threatening self-harm on page.

🏒 MM Hockey Romance
😤 Rivals to lovers
❤️‍🔥 Opposites attract
😈 Menace x ice princess
🌤️ Grumpy x sunshine
♾️ Neurodivergent rep
🥵 Hate sex
🥰 Found family

Plot: 📚📚📚📚📚
Character rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sexiness: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Feels: 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Writing style: 🖊🖊🖊🖊🖊

[Ana Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leif and Tanner were everything I expected and more. I was so looking forward to their story and Brigham didn’t disappoint.

I don’t know if it’s me or this one was a LOT spicier than the previous books. Either way, I absolutely loved them. Loved how they went from hating each other to making life changing decisions in order to be together.

Leif couldn’t stand Tanner since before they both played professionally. He held a grudge against Tanner that was totally misplaced and as he got to know Tanner better, he realized how wrong he was about him.

Sure, Tanner loved riling him up whenever they faced each other, but Leif could see there was so much more to Tanner than he initially thought. One hookup became two and before they knew it, they couldn’t live without each other.

Tanner never planned to settle down, especially not with his nemesis. But Leif made him feel things he’d never felt before. He looked forward to their nightly conversations and getting to know Leif better.

The more time they spent together, the harder they fell for each other. Yet neither was willing to accept those feelings. Leif knew Tanner wasn’t a relationship guy and would sleep with anything that moved. And Tanner was scared of Leif not feeling the same way as he.

But when it was obvious they both fell head over heels for each other, the problem was how they’d make it work given they were on different teams.
Leif was it for Tanner and he was more than willing to do whatever it took for them to be together.

“𝑨𝒏𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒈𝒓𝒆𝒕𝒔?”
“𝑵𝒐. 𝑵𝒐, 𝑰’𝒎 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝑰 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆.”

I loved them so much! I really enjoyed their rivalry and animosity. Loved how they fell so stupidly in love and didn’t even realize it. They fought it so hard and were so sure it was just seggs. Yet here they are planning their future together 🥰

I’m so excited for what’s coming next! I can’t wait for the Brigham’s new book.

[Jenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been excited for Tanner and Leif since the first book in this series and I'm so happy to finally get to read about them!! Tanner is such a menace and I absolutely loved his high energy personality and how he uses it to torment Leif. I thought they had a really compelling dynamic as past teammates and how that impacts them now in the present on rival teams. I really enjoyed Leif and thought the struggles he faces mentally with the idea of needing to be perfect teammate, partner, and son were really compelling.

This book does start to feel a little long at times (especially once it takes a completely unneeded side plot turn near the end) with all of the rehashing of the previous books in this series as well as laying the foundation for the next series in the Brigham hockey universe, but I still enjoyed the story.

Thank you Brigham Vaughn and Neon Rainbow ARC Reviews for an ARC of Game Misconduct.

[Fernanda Parente · Rating 5 out of 5]

I guess this is the last of the Scoring Chances Series, Tanner was the last player to have a relationship.
Tanner and Leif played Boston and New York’s rival hockey teams, and they hate each other since they’ve met at 16. But if they hate each other, why do they keep hooking up?
Tanner is a loverboy and keeps flirting with everybody he meets and that makes Leif so mad because he doesn’t want to be distracted with Tanner, that keeps tormenting him during their games. Infuriating but so hot!
A typical enemy to lovers, my favorite trope. Love this book and I want to give more than 5 stars

[Sandy Kay]

Such a cute smile for the guy on the cover! But this is one of those where they hook up and are still hooking up with other people for a while, so, definitely not for me. (Learned via FB's MM book spoilers group, thank goodness for them!). It sounds like nothing is on page, just mentions, but, it is happening while they are also physical, so...No. No thanks.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

[Elle · Rating 3 out of 5]

toooooo long but i still finished so

[Julie Underhill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Game Misconduct by Brigham Vaughn is the 6th book in her Scoring Chances series. You may want to read the others first for reoccurring characters in this one. This is a rivals to lovers opposites attract story between two hockey players who are very different and start off hating each other, especially when playing in games, end up getting to know one another, and then to their utter surprise find out they are in love. Leif Rasmussen and Tanner Clayton both played hockey together in high school but Leif held a grudge against Tanner because he thought he had blown his chances to play for the Boston Harriers with a stunt they pulled at that time and that carried on as they both went on to NHL careers. Now Leif plays for the New York Rockets and Tanner plays for the Harriers and every time they meet it’s like an explosion between them. Tanner is loud mouthed and says whatever comes to him mind without thinking and is very good at chirping whoever he plays, and he especially like riling up Leif. Leif is quieter, thinks things through, and everything is in its place, basically the opposite of Tanner. They had both attended Anders Lindholm’s skills camp in the off season and the last night there was a dinner where Tanner started in again. He was the king of one night stands and they had hooked up a long time ago and he keeps bringing it up to the point an exasperated Leif kissed him to shut him up. He had been turned on by their back and forth banter and this led to a steamy scene. However, he vows that it will never happen again, even though he can’t stop thinking about him. Things blow up again when Tanner doesn’t think and says some disparaging things about Leif’s family, whose father is a famous hockey player and now assistant coach for the Harriers and his mother a supermodel with her own charity, and Leif says some things back about Tanner’s father who left the family and his mother and stepfather. So they are back to square one hating each other again and Tanner chirping Leif every time he can during games against each other. Then both men go to the North Atlantic Ice Hockey Tournament with Leif playing for the Nordic Team since his family came from Norway, and Tanner playing for the USA. After a dinner where they both do some drinking, they discover that their rooms are next to each other so of course they end up in bed and have some more hot love scenes. There is also some apologizing for things that have been said and they continue to be together at the tournament, but no one knows about it, especially since Tanner says he doesn’t want him just for the love scenes but also because he wants to be his friend. They still hate each other when playing but Leif is finding Tanner to be less offensive and kind of nice and seeing another side of him. When they both return home, they decide to keep meeting up when they are in town for games but it doesn’t mean anything. Then they start texting and have some hot phone scenes and are able to meet at an apartment when they play each other. The more time they spend together they more they seem to get along and see each other for who they are. Tanner is messy and has ADHD symptoms even though doctors told his mother he didn’t have that, and Leif has a lot of anxiety and Tanner helps to calm it. Soon Leif realizes he loves Tanner but can’t say anything and since Tanner has never been in a real relationship it takes him a little longer to realize his feelings, but he does with the help of his friends and teammates. Leif has been having some problems with some of his teammates because he likes men and things are sometimes tense in the locker room. But he has a couple of friends who also play and like men too so they start thinking of ways they can help the team become more cohesive. Tanner loves his Harrier teammates and they work so well together that Leif is jealous of him for that. They have been telling select friends about their relationship and after a celebration for one of their teammates Tanner sees Leif spiraling and tells him he loves him but Leif wants forever and it isn’t long before Tanner wants that too. There is a scene with another teammate and a stalker and where Tanner disarms her and Leif was terrified, says he loves him, kisses him, and outs their relationship to everyone there. In the end they are able to make changes so they can be together and are looking forward to playing hockey and making a life together. I really enjoyed this book. The love/hate relationship is on full display in the beginning but gradually changes the more they get to know each other. Tanner is a hot mess and doesn’t have a lot of control, especially with his mouth, but he has liked Leif from the time they met and just wants to be his friend. He also loves to hook up so being in a relationship is something very foreign to him. Leif is the opposite, quiet and not very social, afraid that he will misunderstand or not do the right thing. He also has anxiety and has found ways to keep in under control but Tanner seems to bring out. They were attracted to each other from the start but it took a while for them to find out what it meant to be together. There were lots of hot love scenes and some misunderstandings they needed to work through. Many of the hockey players from Ms. Vaughn’s previous books had big parts in this one and it was fun to see where they now were in their lives. There was also a lot of action depicted as their hockey games were played and the interactions between the teams that went on. And one team won the Stanley Cup! I highly recommend this book, especially if you like stories involving hockey, two men who have some problems and are complete opposites who hate each other at first but with time spent together find they are attracted to each other and finally find love.

[Demian Grimm · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.25 ⭐

Game Misconduct is the sixth and final book in Scoring Chances series, and it’s a lovely, bittersweet way to say goodbye to this team. I guess it can be read as a standalone 🤔, but I wouldn’t recommend it. I think you’d get the most enjoyment out of it if you read the whole series in order.

I really enjoyed Tanner and Leif as a couple and how they seemed completely wrong for each other at first. 😁 Tanner is energetic, affectionate, and impossible to ignore... and chaotic, let’s not forget that. 😁 Leif is reserved, quiet, conscientious, and much more comfortable keeping things under control. Their long-standing rivalry made for some great banter and tension, and it also gave them plenty of opportunities to get under each other’s skin... hehehe. 🤭😈 And of course, I loved watching all of that gradually turn into something deeper and much more meaningful. 😊

I also really enjoyed the slower development of their relationship. Don’t get me wrong, there is plenty of chemistry between them, but because of that the emotional side of their connection gets just as much attention. Tanner was especially easy to love. He’s such a menace, but underneath all that energy and teasing, he has a genuinely kind heart. ❤️
Today, I actually saw a text on a hoodie that perfectly describes Tanner. It said, “Chaos is my power.” If that is not Tanner in a nutshell, I don’t know what is. 🤣 (And my orange cat too, to be honest) 😅🤣

Leif, I have to admit, took me a little longer to warm up to, but when I did, I really loved him too. His anxiety and the pressure he puts on himself to be perfect for everyone made his character feel more real to me. Also, by chapter 6, I already had my suspicions about what else was going on with Leif, so the later confirmation didn’t come as much of a surprise...but all of it was very well executed. 🫶
I just loved seeing how protective and supportive they became of each other. 🥰❤️

That said, I did have some doubts about whether Tanner and Leif would actually work as a couple. There are quite a lot of mentions of Tanner’s past and his (*khm*) experiences with all kinds of people, which felt a little too repetitive and distracting at times. There was also quite a bit of focus on what Tanner wanted from a relationship, which made me wonder how they would make it work when their needs seemed so different. I understood why Tanner needed to figure that out, and I could definitely understand why Leif was worried. But sometimes it felt like Leif would have to adjust to Tanner’s expectations, while at other times Tanner seemed prepared to do whatever Leif wanted or needed.

Of course, two people don’t have to want exactly the same things for a relationship to work. I think my problem was that there was so much focus on how different Tanner and Leif were and what they each wanted that, after a while, I started to question the relationship myself... and not in the way books usually want you to.

I will say, I was also a bit hmmmm 🤔 about how the ending solved the problem of them being on rival teams. But I’ll give it a little suspension of disbelief, as they did known each other for a long time. Still, I was invested in Tanner and Leif and very happy with how their relationship developed. ❤️

And what I really love about this series is that this team truly feels like a found family. I loved how supportive they are of one another. I feel like a parrot saying this in almost every review, but I’m a sucker for the found family trope, sue me. 😅🤣

So, this is a sweet, funny, and emotional story, and a satisfying ending to the series. I’m sad to say goodbye to the team, but I hope I read some of the hints the right way and that Brigham will give us more books set in this universe. 🥰❤️ (I'm looking at you, Nicky, Ian and Aksel! I need all your stories!)

I received a copy of this book from Neon Rainbow Reviews, and this is my unbiased review.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was excited to see what was going on under the surface of the on-ice rivalry between Tanner Clayton and Leif Rasmussen.

Tanner is a defenseman for the Boston Harriers. He is extroverted, antsy, energetic, and flirty. He is chaotic sunshine and flirty fun. And his favorite thing to do is get a rise out of Leif. He chirps him relentlessly and pushes all of his buttons.

Leif is a top-line center for the New York Rockets and the son of a hockey legend who is now Tanner's assistant coach. Leif is a perfectionist, responsible, professional, and organized. He is broody, kind of a loner, and Tanner drives him crazy. Tanner called him Ice Princess.

There is a history between them that caused Leif to hold a grudge against Tanner. There is friction and fighting on the ice. And now, as they are in one location to spend more time together, that friction is turning into more foreplay and fire. They both think they can just continue the casual fun without consequences, but it seems to be getting more complicated.

From antagonism to hooking up rivals to horny friends to long-distance and messy feelings. These two get more than they bargained for. Neither was looking for love or a relationship. And they are such complete opposites and live in different cities and are on rival teams. They both have their own quirks that often trigger the other, but I liked seeing them try to understand more and help each other. But they have plenty of challenges due to their careers and lives as well as their own personal issues, needs, and fears.

This brings back a lot of the characters in Brigham's hockey universe, and I loved spending time with all of them. I always open this author's books and get intimidated at first since this was a 600-pager, but I can honestly say I was sucked right in and was totally invested in their story the whole time. I was sad to see it end. I absolutely loved the curly-topped ball of sunshine, Tanner. He is all over the place, but has such a loyal and caring heart. And Leif really grew on me. He was trying to handle everything, but was so regimented he was not really living.

I am excited to get more with the New York characters. I was really glad to see Nicky back from the last book and there are some other characters that have sparked my interest.

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[Lady Macbeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars
This is the last book of the Scoring Chances series that could not end with Tanner’s story!

Since he appeared in the first book, he’s been a lous, chaotic, happy character, a bit annoying too sometimes (ask Luke Crawford how he knows…), he also may have spread a little bit of illness through the whole team, but oh well!

Tanner has known Leif for years, since they played together in Juniors, and they’ve been on each other’s nerves since then. No game passes that doesn’t see them riling up one another. But you know how it ended up with rivals, right? All that tension simmering that reaches the boiling point and explodes into a very hot hookup. Maybe the most surprising part about the whole thing for them is that they have a great chemistry in bed: they have fun, they push each other playfully, they’re also very respectful and they just are what the other needs. And soon enough it becomes difficult to ignore the feelings that little by little grow behind video calls, funny texts and silly pictures they start sharing.

At some point Leif needs more reassurances and certainty but he’s scared to lose Tanner’s friendship, while Tanner has mixed feelings that confuse him and he doesn’t understand what he really wants, he just knows that Leif makes him feel better.

What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
Leif and Tanner become aware of their feelings for each other at different times, Leif first and Tanner later. I’m not blaming Tanner for needing more time to sort out his feelings, he has never been in love before, so it was pretty normal, and I’m not shaming him for being cool about a hypothetical non monogamy in the physical part of a relationship either, because he considers sexual activities funny, refreshing and also stress reducing.
But I needed him to be more adamant about monogamy because it was clear that Leif was very much anxious about it.
I also struggled with the length of the book: I’m used to 500 pages stories from this author, but this book is 600 and sometimes I had trouble keeping my focus on it.

I adored how Leif and Tanner helped each other with coping mechanisms, it was another way for them to be a perfect match.

The whole Boston Harriers family is amazing, I’m both sad to let them go and excited to see how things will go in New York.
Lastly, thank you Brigham Vaughn for letting me have a glimpse of Gabriel Theriault, he will always own my heart.

Recommended.

I received an ARC of this book from Neon Rainbow and this is my honest review.

[Kristina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Man, what an ending to the Boston Harriers series!

All throughout the series, Tanner Clayton has been lurking in the background as a chaos gremlin/defenseman for the Harriers. There was also clearly something going on with the star of the New York team, Leif. We got hints throughout the series, and I have to say, the resulting book paid off!

This book takes place over the course of the of the season, so there is a little overlap with previous books in the series, just told from Tanner and Leif's perspectives. (You can for sure read it without the other books, but the other characters are a lot easier to keep track of if you've read the whole series! Just wanted to give a heads up for the people who hate the nagging feeling that they may have missed something)

These rivals-turned casual hookup-turned friends-turned more definitely had some sizzling chemistry. They use antagonism as a love language, which often leads to some serious banter, so I was here for it! It also leads to some explosive moments, since feelings go from hot with rage to hot with horniness pretty quickly, especially at first.

These two also bring idiots to lovers to the table, which is another favorite trope of mine. While it can lead to frustrating moments, two dummies (lovingly said) refusing to admit feelings or do any real self-reflection can lead to some fun moments.

I also loved the neurodivergence rep in this book--Tanner has some pretty obviously undiagnosed ADHD (though he was evaluated as a kid), and Leif has some not-as-obvious (unless, like me, you share the same condition) undiagnosed autism and definite anxiety. Both of them were portrayed well and with sensitivity, which I appreciated.

The only real drawback is that this book is very long (at just over 600 pages, it's a chunky boy) and while I enjoyed the whole thing, I think that it also could have stood to have had a few more edits. Do not ask me to point out a specific thing that I think should be cut, as now I am too attached to these guys to tell you, but I do think some things probably could have gone and not really impacted the overall story arc. Otherwise, this was a fun book, and I am looking forward to getting a new team to read about and fall in love with!

[Woodatsi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Game Misconduct is the last book in the Scoring Chances series. While it can be read as a standalone, it's beneficial to read the previous ones as we catch up with a lot of previous characters and especially in this story.

Tanner and Leif have known each other since they were 16 and playing in the same hockey team. They were good friends, even had a moment, however that changed into rivals when something happened that blew Leif's chance to be drafted for the Boston Harriers and he blames Tanner for it. He ends up joining the New York Rockets.

Tanner is D-man for the Boston Harriers, he's outgoing, always happy and loves to flirt with everyone. He is however also very chaotic, and super energetic. His favorite thing though is riling Leif up, so whenever they play against each other, they butt heads.

Leif is also a D-man but for the New York Rockets. He's very serious, particular and super neat. His father was a famous hockey player too and Leif's always felt the pressure of trying to be as good as his dad. He loathes Tanner with a vengeance but gives it his all to rile him up as much as Tanner does him.

Being at the same camp and playing together brings everything to a head and they end up in bed together. What starts out as enemies with benefits soon turns into something deeper, they get to know each other better and realise the animosity they're feeling is in fact love. Both keep on insisting though they don't want a relationship but soon things change.

While I really liked the story there were a few things that I found a bit irritating. Tanner always repeating he didn't want a relationship, that he wanted to see other people became pretty frustrating. The book was long, and while it was mentioned that there were scenes we saw in other books, it still dragged a bit.

It was wonderful however to see lots of characters again from previous stories, the epilogue was really nice and I do hope Brigham will give us a new series where we see more of the New York Rocket characters.

**ARC kindly received from the author via NRR. I'm leaving a voluntary honest review.**

[Showarst · Rating 3 out of 5]

Game Misconduct by Brigham Vaughn is book 6 and the final book in the Scoring Chances series. I have been a huge fan of this series and am very sorry to see it ending. I have enjoyed the Boston Harriers quite a bit. This one was not my favorite of the series for many reasons.

I really enjoyed Leif and the way that he dealt with his anxiety. He and Tanner have known each other since they were teenagers and they had a falling out when Leif blamed Tanner for tanking his chances with Boston. They are rivals on the ice and off. Leif was serious and introverted–forever wanting to focus on hockey.

Tanner is the opposite. He is fun, cheerful, flirty, and loves to sleep around. I think part of my problem with this story is the constant talk about Tanner hooking up with everyone (man, woman, nonbinary, trans, etc). It is talked about a lot and takes my focus off the two people who are supposed to be in love. He and Leif seem to want different things in a relationship so it made me doubt that they could make it work.

The whole polyam conversation also threw me off. I understand Tanner needing to understand what kind of relationship he wanted, but it seemed like it was all going to be on Tanner’s terms and Leif would have to deal with it. I completely understand why Leif is worried that Tanner will get bored in the future.

The ending moved so quick too. The men barely got together and Tanner was already talking about a trade. I love that he is determined and confident that the relationship will last, but it did give me pause that maybe they should slow down a little.

I am very interested in the New York team and it seems like it was leading to a spin-off. I would enjoy reading about that team.

I still love the series and most people will love this one as well. I am just rather picky about what I like and don’t like in my romances.

I received an ARC from the author and Neon Rainbow ARC Reviews for my honest review.

[Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t think I’d like Tanner, but by the end I not only liked him, I respected him.

As with Book 5, Cheap Shot, when I started this book, I was not convinced I would like the MCs. Tanner Clayton has been an annoying mosquito of a character to me for the prior five books. His lack of respect for boundaries. His refusal to take things seriously. His chaos. These were all characteristics that made me cringe with every scene he was in. In Book 4, when he took Graham’s phone from him to dig into his personal messages, I wanted to reach through the pages and strangle him (a true pet peeve of mine). In Book 5, when he continually tried to force Luke to divulge his personal life, he drove me to distraction because nothing short of being beaten to a pulp would even cause him to pause how annoying he is. So, suffice it to say, I was shocked when by halfway through the book, I was not only far less irritated by Tanner, but I was rooting for him.

Leif is both what I expected and someone I respected from the first encounter with him. His social awareness is challenging and his bluntness is offputting at times, but his sincerity and drive to be the best he can be is a perfect contrast to Tanner’s ride by the seat of his pants approach to life. I love watching him evolve, especially as the story progresses and more of his personal demons and regular struggles are revealed.

What I love most of all about this story is that this unlikely pairing doesn’t feel forced at all. It is messy and explosive and chaotic but it is also honest, challenging, and raw. It is a relationship that fills in the cracks of two damaged heroes struggling to keep from losing it all. I also love the way their relationship, not just between the MCs but of the MCs and their teams, prepares the way for us to move into the next Hockey Romance series set in New York with the Rockets.

[UnusualChild{beppy} · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars.

Tanner doesn't like Leif's face. Or his hockey playing. Or his attitude. And while Tanner knows just what to say to get under Leif's skin, having played on the same junior team as him, Leif can rile Tanner up just as easily. After a couple of encounters off the ice, they get to see each other for a sustained time at a tournament, and start hooking up. It's not easy, as they don't play for the same team, but they see each other as much as they can and start developing feelings for one another.

You know, I'm pretty sure I liked this. I found it hard to get into Leif's brain, because Tanner was Tannering all over everything, but once I got to know him, I felt for him. He was so much more contained and quieter than Tanner, who was just who he was (not in a bad way. Maybe a little exhausting, though?) and everyone had to deal with it. And even though Tanner acted like he couldn't stand Leif, it really was a case of those kids who pull other kids hair or kick their shins as a way of getting the person of their affections attention on them. I did like them as a couple, although I'm not sure they are my favourite ones. (That might be Shea and Dom or Connor and Jesse, even though NEITHER of those books or couples were my favourite when I first read the books.) It's just that Tanner had such a presence and personality, and I kind of feel like Leif got lost in the shuffle, which just brought down my enjoyment level a little. And I'm not sure that it had enough moments that brought out my feelings or will stick out to me in a couple of weeks that I will be itching to re-read it just for those parts. Which is what happened with the other books that I thought weren't my favourites.

[Sabrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s Tanner and Leif’s turn! I’ve been looking forward to these two. They definitely give those enemies-to-lovers vibes. Tanner and Leif have known one another for ten years. And in those years, they’ve become rivals on the ice. Off the ice? Well, Tanner is determined to be friends and lately, more than that. The first time they hooked up was unforgettable and Tanner wants a repeat. And getting Leif to admit he wants is too is half the fun. Tanner drives Leif crazy and yet he always finds himself being pulled back to him. Neither want a real relationship. No chance, no way. But when they find themselves entering a more solid agreement about their hook ups, then talking more often than not… well, slowly things might be changing between them. Admitting it or even noticing it? Takes them a bit, but all bets are off the table when they realize just exactly how much they mean to one another. But how can they be anything on opposite teams? I adored these two! Tanner is wild and chaotic and overall sweet. He can get Leif to relax and have fun and destress. And for Leif, he never thinks Tanner is ever truly too much. He may feign annoyance, but he doesn’t ask Leif to be anyone but himself. I really loved watching these fall for one another. Oblivious and all in without in realizing it so. Their dynamic was a lot of fun with their banter. But I loved how much depth they both have and the things they deal with it. Just another great story in this series! And I’m looking forward to seeing what comes next in this hockey world!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tanner Clayton, golden retriever and chaos personified, loves hockey and sex with any consenting adult. Leif Rasmussen, major anxiety issues and wound up so uptight he requires breathing exercises to make through any given day. These two are both exceptional hockey players and rivals on different NHL teams but have grown up through the ranks together, sometimes getting along, sometimes hooking up and sometimes coming to blows. But during a special international hockey tournament, they both come to realize that their arguing is also their foreplay and what started as a one night hookup turns into a situationship. As there arrangement grows from just sex to a deeper friendship they get to actually learn more about what makes each of them tick and figure out ways to help the other deal with their undiagnosed neurodivergent issues. Trying to figure out to talk to each other while also making their way into the playoffs and keeping their deeping relationship secret proves difficult but eventually these two finally get their acts together and realize that as important as hockey is to each of them, their relationship is just as or more important. These two work hard on themselves to get where they need to be to make their relationship work to get to there HEA. This is book six in the Scoring Chances series, and need to be read in order as most of this series takes place during the coarse of the Boston Harriers push to make through the hockey season through playoffs to the cup.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Marion · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sixth book in the Scoring Chances series. Each book features a different couple. While it could be read as a standalone read, I really think that you should read the series in order. There are a lot of reoccurring characters from earlier books that help enrich the story. This is the story of Leif Rasmussen and Tanner Clayton. Both played hockey together in high school but a falling out has made them enemies. Both have become professional hockey players. Leif plays for the New York Rockets and Tanner plays for the Harriers. Every time their teams play against each other, their is nonstop chirping and friction between them. Tanner is loud and outgoing. He has absolutely no filter between his brain and his mouth. Messy and chaotic is his natural state. Leif is quieter and likes things organized. The rivalry continued during the Anders Lindholm’s skills camp in the off season. And again during the North Atlantic Ice Hockey Tournament. Tanner represents team USA and Leif represents team Nordic. But this time their relationship changes. Suddenly they begin to see the person behind the image. This is their story. The book is written well and is easy to read. I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Both men still had their quirks and triggers when they were together but now they were trying to help and support each other. I really enjoyed this book. I look forward to the next book in this series.

[This.Girl.Readss · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been so excited for Tanner’s books and it did not disappoint!! As always, the writing was exceptional, the pace was perfect and the spice was HOT!!!

Tanner and Leif have known each other for 10 years and have been rivals for most of it. The occasional hookup wasn’t enough to stop the animosity between them. Tanner loves getting under Leif’s skin and every interaction ends in a fight. Even through all the rage and hostility, the sexual tension that radiates off of them is intense.

I loved how these two came together. The hate sex turning into friendship that slowly turned into more was exactly what I expected from them. Even though they went long periods of time not being able to meet in person, the phone calls and texting helped form their relationship into a strong friendship first.

One of my favorite things about Brigham’s books is the absence of unnecessary drama. I love the open communication and lack of third act breakups! The Boston team dynamics are amazing and easy acceptance of other players and relationships is heart warming. Seeing all the previous couples from the series is always fun, but in this book, we get to see couples from the other series as well! There’s no shortage of amazing side characters and I cannot wait for several of their stories (especially the new head coach of NY & the goalie coach)!

✨ Pro hockey players
✨ Rivals to Lovers
✨ Hate sex
✨ Grumpy Sunshine
✨ Neurodivergent Rep
✨ Low Angst

[Manon · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good end to the Boston Harrier series. Enemies-to-lovers is normally not a preferred topic for me but Brigham Vaughn really makes it work.

Leif and Tanner - their romance is a long time coming. They are so opposite personality wise but they also complete each other. They have plenty of chemistry and when finally the hate is going away and they slowly start to let emotions seep into their frenemies relationship.

You can love Tanner but you also want to take and shake him once in a while. He is the fun, the life of the locker room, the guy who flirts with every breathing person. It takes a long while for him to realise that he falls in love with Leif and a while to accept that it's now just one person for him.
You can see the personal knowledge of a ND person clearly in the author's description of Tanner.

Leif is so different, serious, anxious, always doubting himself. This is why these two work so well, Leif is giving Tanner the tools to bring some calm in his chaos while Tanner shows Leif that not everything has to be perfect and serious.

The book is long and that's my reason for the star deduction. A couple of times I felt scenes weren't necessary, some things repeat a bit too much and there was the urge to skip a bit while reading.
We have plenty of information now about the Rockets in New York and I hope we will move there for more stories, there are a couple of guys who urgently need their HEA as well.

[Angel_2822 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Game Misconduct by Brigham Vaughn is the sixth book in the Scoring Chances series. It’s been a great read. This book is such a fun, chaotic, rivals-to-lovers story! Even though is book six in the series, you can totally jump right in.

Leif and Tanner have this hilarious, super intense hate-hate relationship that goes all the way back to high school. Now they’re both in the NHL, and every time they play against each other, Tanner just will not stop chirping and pushing Leif’s buttons. Tanner is loud, messy, and zero-filter, while Leif is super quiet, organized, and constantly on edge. But that back-and-forth banter between them is so full of chemistry that it eventually explodes into this secret hookup situation.

What I really loved, though, was watching them slowly drop their guards. It turns out Tanner helps calm Leif’s anxiety, and Leif actually gets Tanner in a way nobody else does (especially with his undiagnosed ADHD symptoms). They go from throwing low blows about each other’s families to genuinely being there for each other through locker room drama and personal insecurities.

If you love hockey romances with tons of banter, secret meetings, and two guys who go from ‘I can’t stand you’ to ‘I can’t live without you,’ you’ll definitely enjoy this one.

Thank you, Neon Rainbow ARC and Brigham Vaughn for the free eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Drew H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good news everyone, my sweet angel baby dumpling Tanner Clayton was worth the wait!

Boston in general was the worst of Brigham's three hockey series for me by a long shot, there were a couple of pairings that I didn't think worked at all, and the whole saga of the twins especially was a big miss for me. But these last two books were classic Brigham in the best way, and Tanner and Leif were a huge success. Both of them were really interesting characters, their actions and motivations for the most part made total sense, and I liked their dynamic together. One of the more successful parts for me was poking at the ways where Tanner's aggressively undiagnosed ADHD triggered Leif's anxiety and/or autistic tendencies, and the strategies they developed to work through all of that in addition to managing the distance. I think they maybe got into the I love you's a little quick for my taste, but the last quarter of the book had a LOT to set up in terms of launching to where the Brighamverse is going next, so I guess that can be excused.

New York seems like it's going to be a very different team, bringing back in some general homophobia and antagonists that we haven't had since the likes of Jack Malone and Trevor Underhill. We know one got a redemption arc and a partner, and the other got blacklisted, so it'll be interesting to see how this breaks for them (especially the one that shares my name, that'll be fun)

[Dinoh (Akari) · Rating 4 out of 5]

As always, it's a pleasure to read a Brigham book. They're always entertaining, funny, and romantic, while also tackling certain topics that can be difficult to read about. So, a pleasure. In fact, all of this author's series are, although I do have my favorites.

The only reason I gave it only 4 stars was because I had a little trouble connecting with Tanner. I mean, he's amazing, funny, and very lovable. But (and maybe this is a bit of a personal issue. I always struggle when people talk about sharing or polyam or anything like that because it's not something I could do, and I'm not trying to shame anyone or anything, I'm just amazed and a little envious that others can live their lives so freely. It's just not in my nature) I think that while I found it incredible that Tanner tried to understand himself and be sure he could give Leif what he needed, I think he fell a little short in providing that reassurance to him. In other words, I'm not sure Leif truly felt Tanner could be happy with just him. It's as if, in the long run,Tanner would need someone else (physically, not romantically), and that's something Leif couldn't bear because, like me, he's a one-person person. But hey, that's just my opinion, and like I said, it might just be a me problem.

Aside from that, I loved it. It's a great story, and I will always, always recommend this author's books.

I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Previously I said that book 5 was my favorite of the series -- well strike that, book 6 is it! Our MC (who you might remember as Rafe's & Mickey's scatter brained roomie) Tanner is that golden retriever, sex obsessed, sunshine baby that we sometimes really need. (It's totally not ADHD... ok sure dude). Then we have Leif, a little gruff curmudgeon, set in his ways, neat freak, and excellent hockey player. (Clocked that this might be spectrum rep right away 🤔)

We learn early on that Leif is seriously annoyed by Tanner, and has been for many years as their paths have crossed coming up in the hockey world. Tanner, he is not phased and lets it slip to us as readers that Ooohhhh Leif and Tanner have hooked up before. LEIF! You little liar - acting like you don't want any of him.

This one starts out as enemies/rivals, but quickly turns into more (shocker! we love to see it) There is more plot and more hockey in this one than I expected but I enjoyed that. It was a deserved happy ending and it sounds like Leif's dad and coach Hawk might be telling their story next! YAY. I love older MC's with second chances.

Overall this book was another win and I'm giving it 5 stars because I just really enjoyed it and the feels were great. Can't wait to read the next (and final, I think) book in this Harriers series!

[Amanda Winter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been waiting for Tanner’s story, and it was absolutely worth the wait! As the 6th and longest book in the series, Game Misconduct is a fantastic conclusion.

Tanner and Leif have such a great enemies-to-lovers dynamic. They start as fierce rivals on the ice, then become hookups, and eventually something much more. Their contrasting personalities work so well—Tanner is exuberant, playful and curious, while Leif is organised, meticulous and much more reserved.

I really loved the neurodivergent representation and watching these two learn how to understand, support and make space for each other. Tanner’s ADHD is particularly well done, and seeing him slow down for Leif was incredibly sweet.

There’s plenty of hockey drama, secret hookups and shenanigans, and I loved watching them try to pretend their relationship wasn’t obvious to everyone around them.

The only thing that didn’t quite work for me was how quickly things shifted from friends-with-benefits to love. I would have liked a little more time there, but the emotional payoff and heartwarming ending made up for it.

I also loved the cameos from the Scoring Chances characters—Jesse is still causing chaos and running Connor ragged!

A sweet, low-angst, high-shenanigans romance and the perfect way to finish the series.

[Lindsey Middlemiss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fab ND rep in an adorable rivals-to-lovers hockey romance

I just loved this!

The pansexual fu¢kboi. His upright rival. The undiagnosed neurodivergences getting recognised, the acceptance of polyamory, the found family... So good!

Leif and Tanner were surprisingly adorable given their decade long rivalry.

And all the Harrier faves were there, from Jesse with his goalie magic eyes, to grumpy Crawford

The depiction of ADHD time blindness and novelty-worn-off/out-sight-out-of-mind in Tanner was so well done!

It's a little sad to say goodbye to the Boston Harriers with the end of this series, but I'm looking forward to the New York Rockets series next.

In this, you'll find:
•MM hockey romance
•Rivals to lovers
•Pansexual fu¢kboi with undiagnosed ADHD
•The uptight anxious (and undiagnosed autistic) gay forward whose attention he's been trying to get since Juniors
•Rivals team
•Hate hookups
•"I won't catch feelings"
•Homophobic comments from a teammate
•Stalker of secondary character
•Self-harm ultimatum scene
•Mention of secondary character recovering from post-concussion syndrome
•Mention of minor on-ice injuries
•Mention of past closeted relationship for secondary character
•Mention of child needing heart surgery