After Elle Townsend is dumped by her hockey star boyfriend Christian Riley on the eve of the championship playoffs, she devises a plan for sweet revenge—a fake romance with Christian's arch-rival. Preston Lawrence takes his hockey career very seriously because brawling on the ice is the only thing he’s good at. With the championship trophy and his contract extension on the line, he needs to figure out a way to control his temper that always flares and gets him ejected whenever he faces his rival. So, when a heartbroken blonde asks Preston for a photo with him to try to make Christian jealous, he raises the stakes.

Known for avoiding the spotlight, Preston kisses Elle in front of a crowd of sports reporters, certain the video will go viral. Their “fake” kiss felt a little too real for Elle and Preston. It looks real to Christian too, who goes ballistic when he sees Elle in the stands wearing Preston’s jersey, and holding up a sign that insults the size of Christian’s “stick.” Infuriating Christian helps Preston keep his head in the game so his team could win game one of four. That’s why he suggests to Elle that they keep up their charade through the championships. Christian and Preston have a complicated history. Their rivalry intensifies further when they begin to fight over Elle. As Elle and Preston grow closer, secrets unravel, causing Elle to question if Preston's feelings are genuine or just a part of his revenge plot against Christian.

Revenge is a dish best served cold. Isn't that what they say? This was a great setup for fake dating, the story was engaging and funny from the beginning, and the writing was good. Preston is one of my favorite MMCs in a long time. Great read! 4⭐

I received an advanced complimentary digital copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed are my own.

Fake dating
Sports Romance ( Ice hockey)
Dual POV
Revenge Romance


When a book has ‘my professional hockey star boyfriend’ in the first line I don’t have high hopes, but this book pleasantly surprised me. I did end up enjoying the story and the writing wasn’t as bad as I thought it was going to be. Some of the plot and things that happen did have me thinking, ‘that’s not very realistic’ and ‘that wouldn’t happen like that’ but isn’t that why we read these books, to escape from reality. I’m a sucker for a love story so when he went from not dating for at least 5 years, to fake dating to dropping the L bomb in about 2-3 weeks, I’m not mad at it. Their relationship does move very fast but within the fake dating situationship they're in, it makes sense.
It’s a light hearted romance and an easy read, I felt like time flew away from me when reading this. Before I knew it I was 30% into the story.
Ice hockey is my favourite sport to read about and this definitely ticks the boxes for an easy sports romance. I will be reading the next book in the series as this book sets the characters and story up and I imagine it will start back up from where this one leaves off.

The classic fake dating to get revenge on an awful ex and it was absolutely fantastic. Elle was the perfect fit for Preston and his grumpy demeanor. I already can't wait for the next book to see what happens next.

I really enjoyed this book, Elle and Preston were well written and very engaging characters that were easy to like and root for.
The story moved a fairly quick pace, but it didn't feel rushed or far fetched. I will definitely be reading this author again.

it’s been a while since a book really hooked me but there was just something about this that really got me. I’m a big sports romance fan but have struggled getting into them for a while, from the first few pages I was invested and could have happily read this in one sitting.

Elle and Preston worked so well together and had me rooting for them as soon as they started their fake dating, and I wanted to know more about the supporting characters as soon as I finished.

It did feel like the conflict was resolved a little too easily but it didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the story at all.

I already can’t wait for the next story in this series!

I loved how you dive straight into the action on the very first page of the book!
There is no build up and no waiting around the writer gets straight to the point!
The characters were well written although I did get annoyed with the FMC at times as she was so self pitying (why even go for hockey players in the first place if your going to moan you aren’t enough for them!)
It did feel very much as though it was a debut novel and I was shocked to find that it wasn’t however it does look like the authors first go at a sports romance!
I will 100% be reading book 2 when it comes out though!
🌟🌟🌟🌟

More 4 1/2 🌟Revenge Puck is a light hearted hockey romance featuring Elle and Preston. It is book one at the Shot At Love series and is a fake dating, grumpy/sunshine sports romance. Elle and Preston attraction is instant even though it’s a revenge relationship, Preston’s biggest rival is Elle’s ex boyfriend it was fast paced and kept me invested especially with the side cast of characters. It was an easy read and I look forward to next book in the series.

Fake dating is one of my all time favorite tropes, so I was really excited to read a hockey fake romance story.

One of my favorite aspects that usually goes along with fake dating is the slow burn and tension that builds along the way as the lines between fake and real are blurred. I was really disappointed that this book was missing that.

I would’ve loved this book if the pacing was a bit slower and timeline was longer.

This was extremely fast paced and really dives into the insta love trope (not my vibe). The writing was just okay, but a bit clunky at times. The dialogue felt strange and off and really pulled me out of the story. I think overall this book would’ve greatly benefited with a bit more show instead of tell.

The characters felt very plain and lacked depth and a lot of their decisions and dialogue did not make sense. I found their immaturity to be very frustrating and unfitting for the ages they’re supposed to be. Quite a bit of miscommunication that could’ve easily been solved by a conversation instead of the constant fleeing.

I enjoyed the mystery of the hidden reason why Preston hated Christian, but it was revealed pretty early on. I do like the side storyline for Christian and I’m interested in seeing how that plays out in the next book.

A huge thanks to Netgalley for the ARC!!

After being dumped by her hockey star boyfriend, Elle Townsend enlists his biggest rival, Preston Lawrence, for a little payback. What starts as a staged relationship quickly turns into something more, or is this just another game?

The book starts strong with a compelling setup and plenty of tension. Preston and Christian’s rivalry adds an extra layer of intensity, and the revenge angle keeps things entertaining. However, the breakneck pacing makes it hard to fully invest in the romance. Their relationship unfolds over a single championship series—less than two weeks—which doesn’t allow for much emotional depth. The dialogue-heavy style keeps the story moving, but at the cost of character development. Additionally, a subplot involving Elle's ex often steals the focus, making the main romance feel even more rushed.

I started reading this while I was at work and I couldn't stop reading. The pace of the book was well kept. The relationship that grows between Pres and Elle was great. The personality changes you see in both of them I feel fit the mark for a realistic relationship. I like that Chris and Pres were able to get on to some solid ground and do the right thing for Finn. I absolute love that Pres proposed to her in the same spot that he met her. This was a cute book and I love Ellie and Pres. I don't know how I will feel with Chris and and Maya story being next. Simply because I don't like how he is portrayed in the first book. I can only hope that he changes his way in their book.

There were a couple spots in the copy of the book that I had where the sentence didn't make since. I was more on the fact that the words should have been switch. There was a random "t" after one of the words and had no reason to be in the sentence.

I quite enjoyed the premise of this book. The main character Elle, was an enjoyable character who has gone through a lot of ups and downs in her love life. The romance is this is great, and I really enjoyed the whole fake dating scenario. I actually wish it had lasted longer. The spice in this is good, although I wished there was more of it. The 2 male main characters, Christian and Preston were okay. Christian was just a walking red flag, and that was portrayed quite well. Preston on the other hand was portrayed as the love interest hero, but I really did not get that vibe from him. He came across as very hot-headed, and I feel that Elle deserved someone better than him.

Overall an enjoyable read that I would recommend to those who enjoy fake-dating, hockey romance, and spicy content.

Revenge Puck is a steamy, fast-paced hockey romance with fake dating, chemistry, and tension. I picked up the book as a last minute, quick read and it certainly delivered. The characters were interesting and I was invested right from the start.

Elle is the kind of heroine you can’t help but root for—she gets dumped by her hockey player boyfriend right before the playoffs and decides to get even in the best way possible: by fake-dating his biggest rival. Enter Preston Lawrence, the league’s bad boy enforcer, who usually avoids the spotlight but jumps at the chance to mess with his nemesis. What starts as a little payback quickly turns into something way more real than either of them expected.

I loved Preston. He’s all rough and tough on the outside but secretly a big softie when it comes to Elle. Their chemistry is off the charts, and watching them go from fake to oh wow, this is actually happening was so much fun. Elle is sweet but strong, and she doesn’t put up with anyone’s nonsense—especially her ex’s. And let’s be real, seeing her get under Christian’s skin was so satisfying.

The banter is great, the tension is chef’s kiss, and the romance is the perfect mix of sweet and spicy. Elle’s best friend, Audrey, adds some hilarious moments, and the rivalry between Preston and Christian keeps the drama going. The story moves fast, and I couldn’t put it down—I just had to know how it all played out.

If you’re into hockey romance with fake dating, protective bad boys, and a little bit of chaos, this one’s for you. Highly recommend!

Unfortunately, I DNF’s this at 43%. I really wanted to push through but I just didn’t enjoy a single thing about this. It took instalove to a wholeeee new level and not in a good way. Both MC’s felt so high school—I probably would have enjoyed this if it were YA, but they were just too immature for me. I was really hoping to enjoy this, so maybe someone else still will!

Rating: 4 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Revenge Puck by L.A. Hart is the first book in the Shot at Love series and delivers a sizzling hockey romance packed with fake dating, revenge, and emotional healing in a high-stakes sports setting.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with this ARC!
I absolutely love ice hockey romances, so of course, I had to read this one!

First of all, I had so much fun with this book; there were multiple scenes and situations that made me laugh out loud.

Elle Townsend thought she was in a somewhat relationship—until hockey star Christian Riley blindsided her with a breakup right before the playoffs, revealing she was nothing more than a casual fling. Let’s just say… he’s a total ass about it.

“Why did I merit this talk instead of you just ghosting me?” I ask curiously while staring up at the ceiling rather than his too pretty face.
“Because you’re the only one who can do my fade the way I like,” he responds, as if it’s obvious. “Just because we’re not fucking doesn’t mean I want you to stop cutting my hair and shit.”
“You could sleep with every player in the league, and I wouldn’t care,” he says confidently. “Well, except for Preston Lawrence.”

Determined to get back at him, Elle and her bestie Audrey come up with a revenge plan: fake dating Christian’s biggest rival, Preston Lawrence—the grumpy enforcer known for his hot temper and zero interest in dating. What starts as a simple “let’s take a picture to make him jealous” soon escalates into holding up a sign (I won’t spoil what it says, but trust me—it’s hilarious!) and wearing Preston’s jersey.

“All I want is a photo with you to put on Insta to try and piss Christian off."
“Why do you need to see my silly little sign?”
“A big silly sign. And let’s just say I have a bit of a rage problem whenever I see Christian Riley’s fucking face.”
“No kidding?”
“Your sign, the meaning behind it, would give me a chance to hold some shit over his head for once.”
“He usually holds shit over your head?”
“Something like that.”
“So, we would be helping each other out? You gave me an ussie and I give you a big, glitter sign in the stands?”
“Yes. Only fair, right?”

What begins as a revenge scheme spirals into something real. Preston, who has spent years prioritizing his career and shutting people out, finds himself unexpectedly drawn to Elle. But both of them have baggage.

Preston still holds deep resentment toward Christian for past betrayals, while Elle struggles with self-worth after being treated as disposable. Their chemistry is undeniable, but their fears threaten to tear them apart. Preston constantly worries that Elle isn’t over Christian, and Elle isn’t sure if Preston will ever put her first and cares more about her than getting revenge on Christian.

What I Loved
✔️ Fast-paced, fun, and full of banter!
✔️ Fake dating trope done right—with lots of laugh-out-loud moments.
✔️ Elle’s sass + Preston’s grumpiness = perfection.
✔️ A steamy, emotional romance with a good balance of tension and tenderness.

What Didn’t Quite Work for Me
⚠️ The romance moved a bit too fast. I would have loved to see more gradual development before they went from fake dating to deeply in love.
⚠️ Preston’s temper issues could have been explored more. While his protectiveness was endearing, I felt like his character arc needed more depth and growth.
⚠️ Some grammar mistakes/missing words (hopefully fixed in the final version).

Final Thoughts
Despite a few hiccups, I devoured this book in one sitting. The mix of romance, revenge, and hilarious moments made it such an entertaining read!

If you’re looking for a quick, fun romance filled with banter, fake dating chaos, and swoon-worthy moments, this one’s for you!

Thanks @netgalley for the ARC.

I enjoy a sports chick-lit series, and I thought this would fit the bill, but sadly, it was a little lacklustre and fell a bit flat. The writing was OK but it wasn't really exciting. You didn't feel particularly invested in the characters, and the whole story felt rushed and a bit too unrealistic. This is a genre that has been done time and again, and I think it's going to be better than others that are already out there, then it needs to have something a bit more.

Revenge Puck by L.A. Hart is a fun, fast-paced hockey romance with the perfect mix of banter, spice, and emotional depth. The story follows a fiery enemies-to-lovers dynamic, where past betrayals and simmering tension make for an addictive read. The chemistry between the main characters is electric, and the blend of humor and heartfelt moments keeps the story engaging. Fans of sports romance will love the steamy scenes, witty dialogue, and well-developed characters. If you enjoy a mix of revenge, passion, and hockey, this book is definitely worth picking up!

An fun, easy read!
There was humour, insta lust, rivalry, revenge, fake dating, jealousy and so much more. I enjoyed it, but I felt like some plot points should have been developed a little more (in depth). The plot was interesting and I always like a fake dating scheme to get back at an ex. There was plenty of drama and I am definitely a fan of drama, so them dancing around each other and being unsure of the other's feelings, as well as the drama surrounding Preston's career, was definitely something I found entertaining. Preston also had quite a lot of possessiveness issues, but I like that in a fictional man.
That being said, Elle's 180 of feelings felt slightly rushed, since she was quite heartbroken over Christian. Besides that, Christian did not have enough redemption to get back in my good graces at the end (that could just be me though). I also felt like for me the attention sometimes drifted slightly too much to the Christian/Maya (sub)plot.
All in all an entertaining read that had potential.

Huge thanks to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. If you’re a grumpy/sunshine sports romance lover, this is a great quick read!

Loved:
- The inclusion of a curvy heroine!
- Not glossing over Elle’s insecurities and her struggles with the social media attention
- Preston doing everything he could to protect her from the negative comments
- Preston’s relationship with Maya

Meh:
- The insta-love was a little too rushed for me. I just wish their relationship had more time to develop
- Preston’s temper and distrust of Elle. Like come on dude
- Some plot holes. What happened to the letters Christian sent to Maya? On that note, I often felt more invested in Maya and Christian’s story than Elle and Preston’s
- Minor typos throughout the book. Nothing terrible, but it did interrupt my reading flow

Disliked:
- There was more manufactured conflict than I would like considering there were actual things that could cause real conflict
- Why would Elle tell Christian that the relationship was fake? It just seemed very out of character and caused some of the stupid manufactured conflict
- Sometimes it was hard to root for Preston because he was such an asshole in a lot of moments

Dnf 37%

I am very sad to come on here and say that this sadly enough was not what I expected.

The writing was very dull from the beginning. It didn’t have any ‘flavor’ to it, but I didn’t mind it since I was genuinely interested in the story. Not so good writing is not something that scares me away as long as I’m enjoying the story, but after the 35% the story also became boring to me & mixing that with the flavorless writing just turned this fun read to a not so fun read. I got no connection with the characters & their relationship just turned weird.

I wish the writing had a little bit more to it so we had the opportunity to get to know the characters. I also wished we got more interesting scenes, banter and tension.