As an avid reader with a penchant for romance novels, especially those with a touch of spice, I couldn’t resist diving into Pucking Around by Emily Rath. The combination of hockey, romance, and a "why choose" narrative intrigued me, and the premise had me excited from the very start. I was eager to see how Rath would weave these elements together, especially when it revolves around a physical therapist who unexpectedly meets her "Mr. Perfect" again—only this time as her patient.
Kicking off with the characters, Rachel Price stood out as a strong female lead—smart, sassy, and incredibly relatable. Her journey through unexpected love, self-discovery, and professional challenges added a rich layer to the narrative. The chemistry she shared with her three love interests—Jake, Caleb, and Ilmari—was palpable, offering both emotional depth and delicious tension that kept me turning the pages. The humorous banter amongst the characters, especially the way they interacted within the context of a hockey team, made for a delightful reading experience.
Despite the many strengths of the book, I found myself aligning with a couple of critiques shared by other readers. Some reviewers mentioned that the pacing felt uneven at times. While I personally enjoyed the gradual buildup, others felt it slowed down the more intimate scenes. I didn’t find it a significant issue, but I understand how some readers might look for a quicker pace, especially in a romance like this that is also packed with spicy moments.
Additionally, there were aspects of Rachel’s character that raised some eyebrows. A few reviewers found her portrayal as a budding doctor somewhat incongruent with her actions throughout the book. I can see why some felt she didn’t completely fit the mold of a traditional medical professional, given her background as a rockstar’s daughter and her somewhat free-spirited approach to her career. Nevertheless, I appreciated her complexity and willingness to break norms, even if some moments felt unrealistic for a healthcare worker.
On the positive side, there were so many aspects that made this book enjoyable! Rath’s ability to create vivid and relatable characters cannot be understated. Readers like Abigail Hayden highlighted how well-written and engaging Rachel’s story was, pairing heartwarming moments with laughter and genuine connection. Jake’s “golden retriever” personality was an absolute joy, embodying the carefree and loving spirit that melted my heart. Caleb’s grumpy charm offered a counterbalance, providing a layered dynamic that contributed to the overall romance. Seeing their growth throughout the book—with each character dealing with their own insecurities and blossoming into a supportive family—was incredibly fulfilling.
Still, the standout moments that had me clutching my heart were undoubtedly the steamy scenes. They were carefully woven into the plot, providing just the right amount of spice without feeling excessive or forced. As noted in many reviews, those climactic kitchen scenes (chapters 55-56) were simply top-tier! Rath nailed the romantic tension, and I found myself eagerly anticipating these moments as I read.
In conclusion, Pucking Around met my expectations and then some. With its perfect blend of humor, romance, and heartfelt emotion, it’s a delightful read that captures the essence of new love and friendship against the backdrop of hockey culture. While it doesn’t come without minor flaws—like pacing and character representation—the engaging storyline and well-developed characters ensure a rewarding experience. If you’re a fan of why-choose romances or just love a good sports romance with a side of spice, I wholeheartedly recommend picking this one up. Emily Rath has crafted a vibrant world that will keep you entertained from cover to cover!
Dive into a thrilling romance filled with hockey passion in “Pucking Around.” >>