Review of The Boyfriend Goal (Love and Hockey Book 1) by Lauren Blakely
When I first stumbled upon The Boyfriend Goal, I couldn’t resist the intriguing pull of a forbidden romance set in the world of hockey. As a fan of Lauren Blakely’s writing—I love how she crafts relatable characters with sizzling chemistry—I dove in, eager to explore the fresh dynamics that awaited me. Little did I know, I was in for a journey full of laughter, steam, and heartwarming moments.
At the core of the story are Josie Winters, a good girl turned librarian, and Wesley Bryant, her brother’s hockey teammate. Their whirlwind romance begins after a chance encounter that leaves both of them breathless—and without exchanging any contact information. The setup is undeniably delicious: a one-night stand leading to unexpected living arrangements that blur the lines between friendship and something more.
One of the standout themes in the book is the idea of stepping out of one’s comfort zone. Josie has come to San Francisco to take a temporary position at a library, but she’s also eager to embrace life a little more fully—hence the spontaneous night with the hotshot hockey player. Wes, on the other hand, grapples with the pressures of his pro hockey career. Together, they navigate the tricky waters of attraction while trying to maintain a strictly “friends-only” policy. However, the tension between them crackles like a power play on the ice, and frankly, it’s impossible to resist.
Blakely’s writing is as engaging as ever. She has a knack for blending humor with heart, resulting in dialogue that had me chuckling one moment and swooning the next. The pacing is spot-on, ensuring a delightful ebb and flow that mirrors the rollercoaster of emotions Josie and Wes experience. One moment that resonated with me came when Wes, addressing Josie’s fears about being “too much,” simply said, “Why don’t we be a lot together instead of apart?” It’s this mix of vulnerability and assertiveness that makes Wes such a magnetic character, perfectly complementing Josie’s growth.
The interactions between the two are lively, peppered with playful banter and moments of tenderness that truly capture the essence of their burgeoning relationship. One particularly unforgettable scene involves them working together to complete a bucket list Josie received from her late aunt—what a touching element that adds depth to her character and their romance!
The Boyfriend Goal isn’t just a romance; it’s about overcoming insecurities and the importance of friendship and family. Readers will find themselves rooting for Josie and Wes as they navigate their feelings against the backdrop of an ever-watchful brother, the competitive hockey world, and their own personal battles.
If you enjoy cozy romances with a mix of humor, steam, and a touch of hockey, this book is undoubtedly for you. It sets the stage beautifully for future installments in the Love and Hockey series, and I can’t wait to see what Blakely has in store next. Reading this was like finding the perfect seat at an exciting game: thrilling and just a little bit heart-stopping. Don’t miss out on this delightful storytelling adventure!
You can find The Boyfriend Goal (Love and Hockey Book 1) here >>