Recent Reads: Pucking Wild by Emily Rath

Pucking Wild by Emily Rath  

Series: Jacksonville Rays #2
Publisher: Emily Rath Books 
Publication Date:  August 21, 2023

 

Format: Ebook
Source: Kindle Unlimited

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Tess Owens is a confident, 33-year-old plus-sized divorcee daring to start her life over in a new job in a new city. In the process, she meets Ryan Langley, starting forward for the NHL’s Jacksonville Rays. Sure, he’s cute, in a puppy at the beach kind of way. But he’s ten years younger than her, and they have nothing in common.

But to Ryan, Tess is his dream girl. He’s ready to do anything to show her that age doesn’t matter, our pasts don’t define us, and just sometimes, two wrongs can make a right.

PUCKING WILD is a spicy MF hockey romance with positive plus size and bisexual representation. This is book two in the Jacksonville Rays series.

Review: 

I wasn't planning on continuing this series, but to understand all the stories offered in Puck Ever After Vol 1 and II, I needed to read this one. So here we are.

Pucking Wild is in the same world as Pucking Around, with the Jacksonville Rays hockey team. In this installment, we follow Tess and Ryan. Tess is Rachel's bestie trying to leave her cheating, abusive husband and life behind. Ryan is the young forward of the team, trying to make his way in the hockey world.

The story delivers a captivating blend of steam, tension, and emotional depth, centering on Tess, who is determined to escape her toxic marriage and Ryan, a young, earnest hockey player who unexpectedly becomes her refuge. The story leans into a classic will-they/won't-they dynamic, heightened by forced proximity that keeps the sparks flying.

The chemistry between them is undeniable, though their immediate, love-at-first-sight connection may feel a bit rushed for some readers. Both characters are deeply flawed, particularly when it comes to communication and their ability to trust, which adds layers of frustration and authenticity to their relationship. The steamy moments are balanced with heartfelt glimpses into their vulnerabilities, making for a compelling read.

While the narrative occasionally skates (pun intended!) over deeper explorations of their pasts, it still manages to capture the emotional journey of breaking free from abuse and finding hope in unexpected places. Fans of angsty, steamy romance will likely enjoy this one, though those looking for slow-burn development may find it less satisfying.