Hey there, romance fans! Ready to hit the ice with a sizzling new series that’ll have you melting faster than a Zamboni can smooth the rink? Buckle up, because Emily Rath’s “Pucking Around” is about to take you on a wild ride through the world of professional hockey, where the action off the ice is just as heated as the games themselves.
A Hat Trick of Hotness
Let’s face it, we’ve all dreamed of that perfect night with a mysterious stranger, right? But what happens when that stranger turns out to be not one, but three smoking hot hockey players? That’s the delicious dilemma facing our heroine, Rachel Price, in “Pucking Around” by Emily Rath.
Rachel thinks she’s scored the job of a lifetime as the new physical therapist for the Jacksonville Rays. Little does she know, she’s about to face off against her one-night stand from two months ago—who doesn’t even recognize her! Talk about a cold shower, am I right?
But hold onto your hockey sticks, because that’s just the beginning. Rath throws Rachel into a steamy love… square? Pentagon? Whatever shape you want to call it when you’re juggling feelings for a playboy forward, a brooding equipment manager, and a superstitious goalie who thinks you’re his good luck charm. It’s enough to make a girl need an ice bath!
Chemistry That Melts the Ice
One thing’s for sure: Emily Rath knows how to write chemistry that’ll fog up your kindle faster than a hockey player’s visor. The tension between Rachel and her trio of temptations is off the charts. You’ll find yourself rooting for all of them, even as you’re yelling at Rachel to just pick one already! (Or, you know, don’t. We’re not here to judge.)
The banter is sharp, the flirting is relentless, and the stolen moments will have you fanning yourself faster than a penalty box door swings open. Rath has a knack for writing scenes that are both steamy and sweet, balancing the physical attraction with genuine emotional connections.
More Than Just a Pretty Face (or Three)
But “Pucking Around” isn’t just about the hot bods and stolen kisses. Rath dives deep into the world of professional sports, giving us a behind-the-scenes look at the pressures, politics, and passion that drive these athletes. Rachel’s struggle to maintain her professionalism while navigating her feelings adds a layer of complexity to the story that elevates it above your average sports romance.
The characters are well-developed, each with their own quirks, flaws, and backstories that make them feel like real people rather than cardboard cutouts of hot athletes. Rachel, in particular, is a refreshing protagonist—smart, ambitious, and not afraid to stand up for herself. You’ll find yourself cheering for her success both professionally and personally.
A Few Penalties Along the Way
Now, no game is perfect, and “Pucking Around” does hit a few rough patches. At times, the pacing can feel a bit rushed, especially when it comes to developing the relationships between Rachel and her suitors. Some readers might find the multiple love interests overwhelming or unrealistic.
Additionally, while the hockey world is well-researched, there are moments where the technical aspects of the sport and Rachel’s job feel glossed over in favor of the romantic drama. A bit more balance between the professional and personal aspects of the story could have added even more depth to the novel.
The Start of Something Big
“Pucking Around” is just the first in Emily Rath’s Jacksonville Rays series, and it sets up a world that readers will be eager to dive back into. With hints of stories to come for other characters (I’m looking at you, brooding equipment manager), Rath has laid the groundwork for what promises to be an addictive series.
Already, fans are buzzing about the upcoming sequels: “Pucking Wild,” “Pucking Sweet,” and the recently announced “Pucking Strong” and “Pucking Free.” If “Pucking Around” is any indication, we’re in for a treat with each new installment.
The Final Score
So, what’s the verdict on “Pucking Around” by Emily Rath? It’s a solid 4 out of 5 stars from me. This book is like that perfectly executed slap shot—it might not always hit the mark, but when it does, it scores big time.
If you’re looking for a steamy romance that’ll keep you entertained from the first page to the last, “Pucking Around” is definitely worth adding to your reading list. It’s got all the ingredients for a satisfying read: hot athletes, witty banter, steamy scenes, and just enough emotional depth to keep you invested in the characters’ journeys.
Who Should Lace Up for This One?
“Pucking Around” is perfect for:
- Fans of sports romances who like their stories with an extra helping of steam
- Readers who enjoy multiple love interests and don’t mind a bit of romantic tension
- Anyone who’s ever fantasized about dating a professional athlete (come on, we’ve all been there)
- Those looking for a fun, easy read that doesn’t skimp on the emotional payoff
The Bottom Line
Emily Rath’s “Pucking Around” is a promising start to what’s shaping up to be an addictive series. It’s got humor, heart, and enough heat to melt an entire hockey rink. While it may not be a perfect game, it’s definitely a crowd-pleaser that’ll leave you eager for the next face-off in the series.
So grab your jersey, settle into your favorite reading spot, and get ready to fall in love with the Jacksonville Rays. Just remember, what happens in the locker room stays in the locker room—unless, of course, it ends up in the sequel!