In Leighton Grace's My Pucking Perfect Goalie, the fourth installment of the Vermont Vipers series, elite athlete coach, finds herself unexpectedly falling for Sammy Braun, the Vipers' talented but struggling goalie. Sammy's game needs polishing, but his heart requires even more attention. Their connection begins as a professional coaching arrangement, focused on improving his on-ice performance and helping him win over his long-time crush, the team manager. However, as their bond deepens, they both realize their true challenge lies not in the hockey rink, but within their own feelings. This standalone hockey romance offers a blend of sports, heartfelt emotion, and sizzling chemistry, offering glimpses into the lives of other characters from the beloved Vermont Vipers series.
Review My Pucking Perfect Goalie
Oh my goodness, My Pucking Perfect Goalie completely swept me off my feet! Leighton Grace has done it again; she's crafted another captivating story within the Vermont Vipers series, and honestly, this one might just be my favorite yet. While I adored Brett and Fallon's story (and all the others!), Finn and Sam's journey resonated with me on a deeper level. It wasn't just the sizzling hockey romance – though, let's be honest, the chemistry between them was electric – it was the emotional depth that truly captivated me.
The premise itself is intriguing: a driven, highly accomplished coach, Finn, tasked with fixing a talented but underperforming goalie, Sam. But Finn isn't just addressing his on-ice struggles; she's delving into the root of his issues, uncovering the hidden insecurities and past traumas that are holding him back. This exploration of Sam's inner turmoil felt incredibly authentic and relatable. We've all experienced those moments where our pasts cast a shadow on our present, and watching Sam confront his demons, with Finn's unwavering support and understanding, was both heartwarming and inspiring.
What struck me most was the way Grace intertwined their professional and personal lives. Finn's own past, hinted at in the descriptions, adds another layer of complexity to her character. She's not just a successful coach; she's a woman who has overcome her own challenges and uses that experience to help others. This shared understanding of vulnerability creates a powerful bond between Finn and Sam, forging a connection that transcends the typical sports romance trope. Their relationship evolves organically, building from professional respect to genuine affection and ultimately, passionate love.
I found myself completely invested in their journey. Sam's growth throughout the story is palpable; he's not just a stereotypical “broody hockey player.” He’s complex, flawed, and ultimately, incredibly endearing. Finn, too, is far from perfect. She’s strong and independent, but her emotional walls have been built for a reason, and watching her slowly let down those walls for Sam was both beautiful and poignant. The secondary characters were also well-developed and added to the rich tapestry of the story. Familiar faces from previous books made delightful appearances, offering a sense of continuity and further enriching the overall experience.
While a few minor typos were present (as mentioned in some reviews), they didn't detract significantly from my enjoyment. The pacing was excellent, keeping me hooked from the first chapter to the satisfyingly sweet ending. This book isn't just a fun, lighthearted romance; it's a story about healing, growth, and finding love in the most unexpected places. It’s a testament to the power of vulnerability and the transformative potential of a supportive, loving relationship. If you enjoy well-written sports romances with emotional depth and compelling characters, then My Pucking Perfect Goalie is an absolute must-read. I wholeheartedly recommend this book and the entire Vermont Vipers series!
Information
- Dimensions: 5 x 1 x 8 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 443
- Publication date: 2025
Book table of contents
- Finn
- Finn
- Finn
- Finn
- Finn
- Finn
- Sammy
- Sammy
- Sammy
- Sammy
- Sammy
- Sammy
- 13. Finn
- 14. Finn
- 15. Finn
Preview Book
