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The Elmwood Stories #6
Puck Love
Two rivals, one secret, and a shot at forever…
Jake
Favorite things and hockey, family, friends.
Least favorite person in the entire history of the Mason Trinsky.
I have my reasons, but since you’re curious, Trinsky is a showboat and a loudmouth. Sure, he’s a great athlete. Good for him. I accept that we have mutual friends and I grudgingly accept that he’ll be a coach at Elmwood Junior’s Camp this summer, however, I plan to keep my distance.
Of course, some wise guy pairs us up for a camping expedition and everything that can go wrong does go wrong.
Guess who I’m stuck with?
Trinsky
Favorite things and hockey, surfing, and my kid brother
Least favorite person in the entire history of the Jake Milligan
Look, I might be in the minority, but if you ask me, Jake is a nitpicking diva who wants everything his way. I hope my NHL team crushes his, and this summer, I want my campers to out-prank his. Childish? Nah, it’s all in good fun.
Until it starts to feel…complicated. I shouldn’t care if he’s happy, should I? I don’t want to be Jake’s friend. I don’t want to have feelings for him at all.
The only thing that matters is hockey. It's all about the puck. Not love.
Or is it?
Puck Love is an MM bisexual, small-town romance featuring hockey’s hottest rivals, a hiking trip gone wrong, and a shot at forever…
Jake
Favorite things and hockey, family, friends.
Least favorite person in the entire history of the Mason Trinsky.
I have my reasons, but since you’re curious, Trinsky is a showboat and a loudmouth. Sure, he’s a great athlete. Good for him. I accept that we have mutual friends and I grudgingly accept that he’ll be a coach at Elmwood Junior’s Camp this summer, however, I plan to keep my distance.
Of course, some wise guy pairs us up for a camping expedition and everything that can go wrong does go wrong.
Guess who I’m stuck with?
Trinsky
Favorite things and hockey, surfing, and my kid brother
Least favorite person in the entire history of the Jake Milligan
Look, I might be in the minority, but if you ask me, Jake is a nitpicking diva who wants everything his way. I hope my NHL team crushes his, and this summer, I want my campers to out-prank his. Childish? Nah, it’s all in good fun.
Until it starts to feel…complicated. I shouldn’t care if he’s happy, should I? I don’t want to be Jake’s friend. I don’t want to have feelings for him at all.
The only thing that matters is hockey. It's all about the puck. Not love.
Or is it?
Puck Love is an MM bisexual, small-town romance featuring hockey’s hottest rivals, a hiking trip gone wrong, and a shot at forever…
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 21, 2025
77 people are currently reading
206 people want to read
About the author
Lane Hayes
98 books1,673 followersLane Hayes loves a good romance! She’s the bestselling author of the Out in College, Starting From, Better Than, A Kind Of, Right and Wrong, and Leaning Into Series! Lane loves red wine, chocolate and travel (in no particular order). All things she can find in sunny SoCal where she lives with her amazing husband in a not quite empty nest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
March 23, 2025
Lane Hayes is leaving Elmwood with a BANG! I pucking loved Jake and Mason's HEA.
Fierce competitors to lovers to friends to FOREVER.
Low on the angst, high on the heat, with humor and banter thrown in.
Everyone in Elmwood is thriving. Jake's three lil' siblings are adorable, and Eddy, Mason's teenage bro, is too cute. The way Mason doted on Eddy was sweet beyond words.
It's hard to do wholesome and sexy, but Puck Love managed just that. Very believable bi-awakening too.
I wanted a refreshing, happy story, and I got one.
Fierce competitors to lovers to friends to FOREVER.
Low on the angst, high on the heat, with humor and banter thrown in.
Everyone in Elmwood is thriving. Jake's three lil' siblings are adorable, and Eddy, Mason's teenage bro, is too cute. The way Mason doted on Eddy was sweet beyond words.
It's hard to do wholesome and sexy, but Puck Love managed just that. Very believable bi-awakening too.
I wanted a refreshing, happy story, and I got one.
March 14, 2025
A perfect ending to this amazing series! Honestly I'm so sad that we're leaving Elmwood after this book 😭
Jake and Mason were just adorable! I loved their rivalry and how they pushed each other's buttons. I equally loved them learning more about each other and re-evaluating their opinions of each other. Their romantic relationship though was just so sweet. The way they can just talk everything through and know that they're in this together.... Adorable 😍 This book also had the perfect balance between the romantic relationship development, getting to know the characters and the spicy scenes.
There's nothing in this book that I didn't enjoy! I didn't want the book to end, it gave that feeling of a warm hug the whole way through and I wasn't ready to give that feeling up.
I'm going to miss Elmwood - it's been so easy to picture this town as a real place, to imagine being there and the characters in this series have been brilliant.
Definitely looking forward to the new college hockey series, and I'm also excited to get to know another of the towns too.
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
Jake and Mason were just adorable! I loved their rivalry and how they pushed each other's buttons. I equally loved them learning more about each other and re-evaluating their opinions of each other. Their romantic relationship though was just so sweet. The way they can just talk everything through and know that they're in this together.... Adorable 😍 This book also had the perfect balance between the romantic relationship development, getting to know the characters and the spicy scenes.
There's nothing in this book that I didn't enjoy! I didn't want the book to end, it gave that feeling of a warm hug the whole way through and I wasn't ready to give that feeling up.
I'm going to miss Elmwood - it's been so easy to picture this town as a real place, to imagine being there and the characters in this series have been brilliant.
Definitely looking forward to the new college hockey series, and I'm also excited to get to know another of the towns too.
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
April 1, 2025
someone please give me a decent enemies to lovers to read, I’m losing my mind here.
March 20, 2025
Lane signs off on this first part of her Vermont-based small town series with Elmwood's home town boy Jake Milligan and his rival on the ice Mason Trinsky.
On the surface, it's a kinda enemies to lovers romance, but really it's about two people overcoming their misconceptions of the other outside of the rink and seeing that there's far more depth than the surface view.
In Jake's case, it's his fears that his career is drawing to a close and that he's not sure what his future holds, tied in with the fact his dad's got a new young family (see Thin Ice for details of that) and he's got residual guilt over the sacrifices his dad made for him growing up.
Mason's hiding a whole boatload of vulnerabilities, from his upbringing, to his younger brother's special needs, to his fairly justified mixed feelings about his mother, and then, on top of that, to his bisexual and possibly demi-sexual awakening.
It's the final element that sparks off the narrative in this story as the rivalry on the ice boils over while the two men are forced to share a tent on a sponsored camping trip organised through Vinnie's ice hockey program (see You, Again for more).
From clashing egos to clashing lips, the tension sparks into flames with both men fighting against the attraction they have for the other.
And it's this slow build-up of them starting with just friendly text messages - and scorching hot sexual encounters - which turns into more as the story develops.
It's full of pithy dialogue, smart-mouthed comebacks, funny comments and the sweetest bunch of kids who make up both of their extended families.
I love a small town vibe, I live in one after all, and I love that there's a real sense of community in Elmwood and especially surrounding the rink that Vinnie and Ronnie have built up, that everyone looks out for each other, the gentle ribbing and mickey taking that's meant with kindness.
It all builds up into a truly lovely read that really makes you smile from start to finish. This is the last in the Elmwood section, but Lane's planning to return to the area with stories based in one of the other towns after her next series wraps up.
I, for one, cannot wait!
#ARC kindly received from the author via GRR Tours, I am voluntarily leaving a review
On the surface, it's a kinda enemies to lovers romance, but really it's about two people overcoming their misconceptions of the other outside of the rink and seeing that there's far more depth than the surface view.
In Jake's case, it's his fears that his career is drawing to a close and that he's not sure what his future holds, tied in with the fact his dad's got a new young family (see Thin Ice for details of that) and he's got residual guilt over the sacrifices his dad made for him growing up.
Mason's hiding a whole boatload of vulnerabilities, from his upbringing, to his younger brother's special needs, to his fairly justified mixed feelings about his mother, and then, on top of that, to his bisexual and possibly demi-sexual awakening.
It's the final element that sparks off the narrative in this story as the rivalry on the ice boils over while the two men are forced to share a tent on a sponsored camping trip organised through Vinnie's ice hockey program (see You, Again for more).
From clashing egos to clashing lips, the tension sparks into flames with both men fighting against the attraction they have for the other.
And it's this slow build-up of them starting with just friendly text messages - and scorching hot sexual encounters - which turns into more as the story develops.
It's full of pithy dialogue, smart-mouthed comebacks, funny comments and the sweetest bunch of kids who make up both of their extended families.
I love a small town vibe, I live in one after all, and I love that there's a real sense of community in Elmwood and especially surrounding the rink that Vinnie and Ronnie have built up, that everyone looks out for each other, the gentle ribbing and mickey taking that's meant with kindness.
It all builds up into a truly lovely read that really makes you smile from start to finish. This is the last in the Elmwood section, but Lane's planning to return to the area with stories based in one of the other towns after her next series wraps up.
I, for one, cannot wait!
#ARC kindly received from the author via GRR Tours, I am voluntarily leaving a review
March 30, 2025
Romantic comedy / enemy to lovers of NHL players Jake and Mason.
I am diving into an established series without reading the prior first 5 books 😅 so I’m guess there will be cameos from previous books but I wont know.
This is book 6.
Jakes opinion of Mason :-
‘Trinsky was a conceited dickwad with more confidence than sense. He played dirty and mean and had the audacity to laugh off hits like a seasoned fighter while his opponents limped to safety.’
Masons opinion of Jake:-
‘A golden boy with intense eyes, edgy energy, a shiny leather jacket, and— What the fuck?’
An enemies to lovers story with the main characters as professional NHL players.
“Why is ‘Trinsky-Milligan Feud’ trending?”
Mason and Jake are coaches for the Elmwood charity camping trip… and camp partners.
“Bonding with the enemy for publicity. This is like a bad episode of Survivor in the making.”
Over 48 hours a lot can happen. Two campers go home sick. One tent and our two hockey nemesis’s. Two more campers get sick and go home. The videographer gets injured plus a concussion and is taken by the EMT’s. Mason kisses Jake and has a tiny gay freak out. Jake kisses Mason then it’s game on. There’s orgasms and a sex tree 🤣
“I don’t like you any more than you like me, and I’m not gay or bi, so this has to be an anomaly. Maybe it’s a matter of blowing off steam.”
On the last night…
“One tent,” I deadpanned. “Again? Seriously?”
‘Jake fucking Milligan had the upper hand here, and I had more of a problem with that than I did with the concept that I too might be bi. Yes, I was aware that was messed up, but that was how shit always seemed to go with us. I was also aware that I’d never know for sure if I was bi unless… “We have to do it again.”
Experimentations. Playful sexy teasing banter. More orgasms.
Two weeks later they are in LA, doing a tv interview about the charity camping trip and then find themselves at Masons beach house.
‘My heart pounded against my rib cage. It was so like him to casually discuss our hump-and-grind fests over lunch with the soundtrack of screeching seagulls, giggling children, and a mishmash of music on the beach. There was so much static in the air and yet, he had my undivided attention. “Oh?”
More sexy times. Some communication and boundaries are set. Secret sexy unserious and fun non-relationship it will be.
Next minute Jake is meeting Mason’s brother and mother. 😅🤦🏻♀️
‘Three days in bed with a man. That was a new one.’
Intimate talks. Feelings are developing. Sex is happening.
They agree to have the rest of the summer and then end whatever this is , for the sake of their NHL careers.
They fall in love but it feels hopeless.
It’s not and they have a happy ending.
Ps Ok I’m guessing the previous books were these characters love stories
‘Denny…who also happened to be married to a man. And his husband, Hank, was a fuckin’ cowboy from Colorado.
Former players who’d come out—like Vinnie Kiminski, Riley Thoreau, Court Henderson, and Smitty Paluchek—had changed the game.’
I am diving into an established series without reading the prior first 5 books 😅 so I’m guess there will be cameos from previous books but I wont know.
This is book 6.
Jakes opinion of Mason :-
‘Trinsky was a conceited dickwad with more confidence than sense. He played dirty and mean and had the audacity to laugh off hits like a seasoned fighter while his opponents limped to safety.’
Masons opinion of Jake:-
‘A golden boy with intense eyes, edgy energy, a shiny leather jacket, and— What the fuck?’
An enemies to lovers story with the main characters as professional NHL players.
“Why is ‘Trinsky-Milligan Feud’ trending?”
Mason and Jake are coaches for the Elmwood charity camping trip… and camp partners.
“Bonding with the enemy for publicity. This is like a bad episode of Survivor in the making.”
Over 48 hours a lot can happen. Two campers go home sick. One tent and our two hockey nemesis’s. Two more campers get sick and go home. The videographer gets injured plus a concussion and is taken by the EMT’s. Mason kisses Jake and has a tiny gay freak out. Jake kisses Mason then it’s game on. There’s orgasms and a sex tree 🤣
“I don’t like you any more than you like me, and I’m not gay or bi, so this has to be an anomaly. Maybe it’s a matter of blowing off steam.”
On the last night…
“One tent,” I deadpanned. “Again? Seriously?”
‘Jake fucking Milligan had the upper hand here, and I had more of a problem with that than I did with the concept that I too might be bi. Yes, I was aware that was messed up, but that was how shit always seemed to go with us. I was also aware that I’d never know for sure if I was bi unless… “We have to do it again.”
Experimentations. Playful sexy teasing banter. More orgasms.
Two weeks later they are in LA, doing a tv interview about the charity camping trip and then find themselves at Masons beach house.
‘My heart pounded against my rib cage. It was so like him to casually discuss our hump-and-grind fests over lunch with the soundtrack of screeching seagulls, giggling children, and a mishmash of music on the beach. There was so much static in the air and yet, he had my undivided attention. “Oh?”
More sexy times. Some communication and boundaries are set. Secret sexy unserious and fun non-relationship it will be.
Next minute Jake is meeting Mason’s brother and mother. 😅🤦🏻♀️
‘Three days in bed with a man. That was a new one.’
Intimate talks. Feelings are developing. Sex is happening.
They agree to have the rest of the summer and then end whatever this is , for the sake of their NHL careers.
They fall in love but it feels hopeless.
It’s not and they have a happy ending.
Ps Ok I’m guessing the previous books were these characters love stories
‘Denny…who also happened to be married to a man. And his husband, Hank, was a fuckin’ cowboy from Colorado.
Former players who’d come out—like Vinnie Kiminski, Riley Thoreau, Court Henderson, and Smitty Paluchek—had changed the game.’
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2025
This was utterly adorable.
I wasn't too sure about Trinsky at first, but he really came around and I started liking him more and more.
This was such a nice, angst free book, I loved it.
I wasn't too sure about Trinsky at first, but he really came around and I started liking him more and more.
This was such a nice, angst free book, I loved it.
March 28, 2025
This was actually very good until the epilogue, where once again this author has characters who stated they didn’t want kids, decide to adopt kids. I do understand people change their minds. But this is a trend with this author and they’re clearly baby obsessed so I think I will avoid Lane Hayes and her heteronormativity from now on.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 16, 2025
Arc Review
Back to the wonderful place called Elmwood we go.
Jake Milligan loves being the hockey playing son of Bryson (Thin Ice). He adores his family, and his best friend Denny (Hot Shot). He is an easy going guy and seems to get on with everyone, with one exception, Mason Trinsky.
Mason Trinsky lives for hockey. In the final of the Stanley Cup, he becomes distracted by the animosity towards Jake when he sees him in the stands, and consequentially looses the final, and blames Jake. He keeps his private life very close to his chest.
On the off season, Elmwood hosts a hockey camp for juniors. Jake and his family help out as much as they can. At the last moment one of the coaches drops out due to illness. Seeing this as a business opportunity Trinsky’s agent has him drafted in to help out. One catch is he is paired with Jake, they have to lead a team and share a tent.
Trinsky and Jake hookup when things boil over. They decide they don’t actually hate each other. Jake starts to see a different side to Trinsky, one of a caring, thoughtful older brother. He would do anything for Eddie, who has special needs. He lets Jake in slowly, and they start to fall in love.
This is yet another exceptional trip to Elmwood. Lane Hayes had created such a wonderfully excepting world. This is one of the best enemies to lovers I have read recently. Jake and Trinsky are described perfectly. The way Eddie was written was beautiful. The story as always flows easily.
I know it has to end somewhere, but I really do not want to ever say goodbye to Elmwood.
Back to the wonderful place called Elmwood we go.
Jake Milligan loves being the hockey playing son of Bryson (Thin Ice). He adores his family, and his best friend Denny (Hot Shot). He is an easy going guy and seems to get on with everyone, with one exception, Mason Trinsky.
Mason Trinsky lives for hockey. In the final of the Stanley Cup, he becomes distracted by the animosity towards Jake when he sees him in the stands, and consequentially looses the final, and blames Jake. He keeps his private life very close to his chest.
On the off season, Elmwood hosts a hockey camp for juniors. Jake and his family help out as much as they can. At the last moment one of the coaches drops out due to illness. Seeing this as a business opportunity Trinsky’s agent has him drafted in to help out. One catch is he is paired with Jake, they have to lead a team and share a tent.
Trinsky and Jake hookup when things boil over. They decide they don’t actually hate each other. Jake starts to see a different side to Trinsky, one of a caring, thoughtful older brother. He would do anything for Eddie, who has special needs. He lets Jake in slowly, and they start to fall in love.
This is yet another exceptional trip to Elmwood. Lane Hayes had created such a wonderfully excepting world. This is one of the best enemies to lovers I have read recently. Jake and Trinsky are described perfectly. The way Eddie was written was beautiful. The story as always flows easily.
I know it has to end somewhere, but I really do not want to ever say goodbye to Elmwood.
March 21, 2025
Can never go wrong with a Lane Hayes book! I love Mason & Jake such a sweet story line for archenemies. Even though it was sweet & slow burn the chemistry between these characters is really good. I can’t wait to see what the new series is going to look like. Can’t believe we are leaving Elmwood now.
March 31, 2025
nhl
enemies to lovers
romantic, they fall hard
love this series
double bi awakening
2 bisexual reps
enemies to lovers
romantic, they fall hard
love this series
double bi awakening
2 bisexual reps
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2025
I love a good enemies to lovers, and Jake and Mason definitely hit that vibe. On and off the ice, Mason loves to rile Jake up in any way possible. While Mason can be more loose and goody, to him, Jake is a lot more uptight. And the public loves the rivalry between them. Though Mason may have pushed the limits a bit in his latest mouthing off that leads the two of them to spend a chunk of the summer together and making friends just a bit. And though neither are exactly happy about it, they won’t back down either or make excuses. But both are very surprised when they start to realize that there is more to the other than they thought and they may not actually know one another that well. Add in the fact that their heated rivalry actually translates to some pretty hot chemistry between them. Next thing you know, they are hooking up and neither really want to stop. Or acknowledge just yet it could be more. I really loved Jake and Mason! Their banter was a ton of fun and their chemistry was awesome. I also loved how they really starting really seeing who each other were. Rather than just the surface stuff. And of course, I loved being back in Elmwood and seeing so many favorite characters. This was probably my favorite of the series and you definitely don’t want to miss this one!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 27, 2025
This is finally Jake Milligan‘s book. We’ve seen him grow up from teenage phenom to an NHL veteran. He’s always been a good guy, great son, and now he’s also enjoying being a big brother and veteran hockey player. He still loves hockey and he’s very popular in the sport.
But there’s one player he doesn’t like, and that’s Mason Trisky. Their on-and-off-ice taunting and teasing have been picked up by the media, and they’ve been called be arch rivals. They really get under each other’s skin. It seems to be a hate-hate relationship until they’re forced onto a community camping trip, and all of that frustration and intensity swirls around until it’s let out by some close personal contact that was unexpected. But now they’re both thinking about each other a bit differently, and even Mason is thinking about himself differently.
One man is barely experienced and the other one has no experience in the bisexual sphere, but they figure out that they’re each other‘s only safe option for exploration. And boy, do they start exploring. But along the way, they actually start to see the other real person underneath their public persona and actually start to like each other. And that just makes it messy.
Public enemies, private lovers, secret feelings, and big decisions. It's complicated.
This is a feisty, sexy, sweet, enemies-to-lovers-to-friends-with-benefits-to-secret romance centered around hockey and Elmwood. I actually really like Trinsky. He’s funny, outgoing, snarky, but he does have a big heart. I loved him and his brother together. And Jake’s always had this Mr. perfect, good guy veneer, but underneath that he’s a bit lonely and looking for a connection and a purpose for the future after hockey. I really enjoyed how their dynamic changed throughout. I always enjoy visiting Elmwood and the characters that I have come to love.
But there’s one player he doesn’t like, and that’s Mason Trisky. Their on-and-off-ice taunting and teasing have been picked up by the media, and they’ve been called be arch rivals. They really get under each other’s skin. It seems to be a hate-hate relationship until they’re forced onto a community camping trip, and all of that frustration and intensity swirls around until it’s let out by some close personal contact that was unexpected. But now they’re both thinking about each other a bit differently, and even Mason is thinking about himself differently.
One man is barely experienced and the other one has no experience in the bisexual sphere, but they figure out that they’re each other‘s only safe option for exploration. And boy, do they start exploring. But along the way, they actually start to see the other real person underneath their public persona and actually start to like each other. And that just makes it messy.
Public enemies, private lovers, secret feelings, and big decisions. It's complicated.
This is a feisty, sexy, sweet, enemies-to-lovers-to-friends-with-benefits-to-secret romance centered around hockey and Elmwood. I actually really like Trinsky. He’s funny, outgoing, snarky, but he does have a big heart. I loved him and his brother together. And Jake’s always had this Mr. perfect, good guy veneer, but underneath that he’s a bit lonely and looking for a connection and a purpose for the future after hockey. I really enjoyed how their dynamic changed throughout. I always enjoy visiting Elmwood and the characters that I have come to love.
March 22, 2025
The books in this series just kept getting better and better! This was such a fun wee read! It's exactly what I needed, at this shitty time, to help me forget what's going on in the world. Also, I do love me a cute romance, with small town vibes, and these expectations were met in spades😊
I loved both Jake and Trinsky, they're so well written. They start out disliking each other, Trinsky constantly chirping Jake on the ice, Jake though gives as good as he gets. I don't want to go into details, (no spoilers ), but they eventually discover that they have a lot in common, all the feels, emotions and that the heat between them is sizzling (so so hot), 🔥 🥵
Trinsky had such a mischievous side, with all his pranks and sassy attitude, he's the total opposite of Jake. I loved the witty banter, and flirting between the two, along with their humorous escapades, keeping the book light and funny. But also, the bond between the two, that's deep, emotional, and touching. A special mention here for Trinsky's brother, Eddie....what a lovely and pure soul 🥰
Once again another excellent read from Lane!! It was an easy read, full of love, found family, emotional and had me hooked from the start. The ending is beautiful 😭
"I’ll come live with you in Elmwood, and we’ll coach teenage punks. And we’ll visit Eddie and my mom in California all the time and stay at my mobster house and we’ll go camping and I’ll share my tent, my sleeping bag, and whatever the fuck else you want. Just give us a chance and be mine, Jakey. Please…be mine.”
Gutted when it ended, cos the series ended too. Hope Lane chucks the odd short story into the mix, so I can keep up with much loved characters. One of my favourite series, highly recommended..
I loved both Jake and Trinsky, they're so well written. They start out disliking each other, Trinsky constantly chirping Jake on the ice, Jake though gives as good as he gets. I don't want to go into details, (no spoilers ), but they eventually discover that they have a lot in common, all the feels, emotions and that the heat between them is sizzling (so so hot), 🔥 🥵
Trinsky had such a mischievous side, with all his pranks and sassy attitude, he's the total opposite of Jake. I loved the witty banter, and flirting between the two, along with their humorous escapades, keeping the book light and funny. But also, the bond between the two, that's deep, emotional, and touching. A special mention here for Trinsky's brother, Eddie....what a lovely and pure soul 🥰
Once again another excellent read from Lane!! It was an easy read, full of love, found family, emotional and had me hooked from the start. The ending is beautiful 😭
"I’ll come live with you in Elmwood, and we’ll coach teenage punks. And we’ll visit Eddie and my mom in California all the time and stay at my mobster house and we’ll go camping and I’ll share my tent, my sleeping bag, and whatever the fuck else you want. Just give us a chance and be mine, Jakey. Please…be mine.”
Gutted when it ended, cos the series ended too. Hope Lane chucks the odd short story into the mix, so I can keep up with much loved characters. One of my favourite series, highly recommended..
March 23, 2025
“I have an idea.”
“No,” he deadpanned.
“It’s a good one, Jakey.”
“I doubt it, Mason.”
My smile threatened to crack my face in half. “I like the way you say my name. Like you’re sort of annoyed, but maybe…not.”
This is why I always investigate Lane Hayes' new releases. Cause when she hits, she hits. Puck Love is now competing with A Kind of Romance as my favorite Hayes book. It's funny, because I tried other books in this series and was pretty meh on them. This one, though? LOVED IT!! And that's pretty much down to Jake Milligan and Mason Trinsky. At times, the energy between those two crackled.
“So you just happened to have a tent in your trunk?”
Jake’s lips curved in a shy smile. “No. This was a surprise. Like…a date, but without any weirdness.”
“Oh. Did you bring Pop-Tarts?”
He nodded. “Of course.”
Idk, there is just something about hockey-romances between rivals that hit different. If anything, I wish Puck Love had been a years-spanning story.
March 17, 2025
Puck Love by Lane Hayes is the 6th book in her Elmwood Stories series. It is the story of two men who hate each other but once they are put in a situation to get to know each other better realize they really like what they see and have to overcome some obstacles to find love. Jake Milligan plays NHL hockey for Boston and Mason Trinsky plays for Denver. They have hated each other almost from the beginning of facing each other on the ice which they have done for several years. Jake thinks Mason is conceited with more confidence than sense, who plays dirty and mean and laughs about it. Trinsky thinks Jake is snobby, uptight, and too perfect. Jake tries his best to avoid him but when they are playing against each other it is a little difficult and they have created quite a feud that social media has picked up on. Yet both have a secret attraction to each other that they can’t quite believe is happening and do everything they can to not think about it. Elmwood is known for its hockey and for camps for kids and since Jake grew up there he is behind them 100%. During the summer they have a charity camping trip with pros and people willing to pay big bucks to camp with them as well as the juniors camp for up-and-coming young players who want to hone their skills with the pros. Trinsky has worked at the camp for several years but Jake has always avoided him as much as he could. This year Jake’s partner for the camping trip had to back out and who do they get to replace her? Trinsky of course. On the first day there are competitions at the lake and the grandfather and one of the twins gets sick and has to leave. When it’s time to retire for the night, they realize they have to share a tent and that doesn’t go over well. When Trinsky insults Jake’s playing it leads to fight that ends in an embrace with the anticipated bodily effects happening. Then the next day the other two family members get sick and go back to Elmwood which leaves Trinsky and Jake hiking together to the next campsite. Jake is now finding Trinksy compelling, disgusting, and fascinating all at once and when they go swimming they kiss and have a very hot time in the water which leaves them wanting more. Then Jake is called to LA to have an interview with Trinsky which his manager says he needs to do because his contract is up and he wants to be signed by Boston again. It goes well and Trinsky, who is from LA, shows him around and he meets his mother and brother, Eddie. This leads to them spending the rest of the week together, getting to know each other, and having some hot love scenes. Now Jake is falling for Mason who he has found out is a thoughtful, patient, and kind over the top goofball and Mason learns about Jake’s family and how he grew up and realizes how much he likes him too. The Juniors Camp goes well but both have to keep up the ruse of hating each other because they are worried about their careers if people find out they are together, but their families know them and have figured it out. They think that their relationship will be over when camp ends but they both realize they love each other and are willing to try to make it work long distance, keeping it as quiet as they can until they find the right time to tell everyone about being together and in love. I really enjoyed this story. At first Jake and Mason are about as opposite as they can be and really get on each other’s nerves. But once they are put in a situation where they have time to talk to each other and get to know one another they realize that they really like what they see and want to be together. And they have some very hot times together as they explore that side of their relationship. They have some hard decisions to make in order to stay together but in the end love wins. It was fun to see many of the characters in previous books from the Elmwood series as well as meet their families and see them all help the guys when it was needed. I highly recommend this opposites attract, only one bed hockey story between two rival players who hate and antagonize each other at first, but as they learn who they really are inside like what they learn a lot and this turns to love.
March 20, 2025
'I stared up at Jake’s beautiful face, memorizing the faint lines at his eyes and the wide arc of his smile. I couldn’t remember ever hating him or thinking he was less than f**king perfect.
Perfect for me.'
There was a welcome return to Elmwood when I read Lane Hayes' new release, Puck Love.
Visiting Elmwood is always like being wrapped in a warm hug.This cosy welcoming town is full of wonderful characters who feel like old friends.
It was with a touch of melancholy that I began the final instalment of this fantastic series of Elmwood Stories. However, Lane Hayes made sure that the series went out on a high note with Puck Love, Jake Milligan and Mason Trinsky's story.
To say that Jake and Trinsky don't get along is an understatement 😅 #shinyjacket, but when one of the pro players can't make the annual summer junior hockey camp in Elmwood, Trinsky is called up. And given the press furore over their rivalry, both guys need to play nice!
Things don't always go to plan, however, when they are paired together for a camping trip. Some of the one-liners and barbs between them are hilarious! And yes, there is only one tent!
But as they start to see another side to their rival, and they realise they don't actually know each other, tensions build and spill over in the most delicious exploration between them.
As Jake and Mason (I love how he calls him by his name 🫠) spend the summer hooking up and, whilst they don't want to admit it, falling in love, we go on this wonderful journey with them and I totally fell in love with these two.
Jake is a character we've met throughout the Elmwood Stories, and I loved getting to know him more and seeing him as a big brother to his dad, Bryson, and Smitty's three young kids. Meanwhile, Mason hasn't always had things easy in life, and when we get to know him, we realise just how wonderful a guy he truly is. I adored seeing him with his brother, Eddie. I honestly have loved each couple in this series, but Jake and Mason are my favourites 😍🥹🫶
Puck Love made me laugh; it made me cry, and it made me fall completely head over heels for these guys. This book was unputdownable!
I loved getting to see a glimpse into the lives of all of our beloved characters from this series, and whilst I'm so sad this is the end of the journey in Elmwood, I'm excited for more from the Four Forest area with Lane Hayes' turning the focus to Wood Hollow in the future (and I'm hoping on some Elmwood cameos!)
Goodbye Elmwood, it's been an absolute joy, and I know I'll revisit you for rereads many times 🫶🏒♥️✨️
Perfect for me.'
There was a welcome return to Elmwood when I read Lane Hayes' new release, Puck Love.
Visiting Elmwood is always like being wrapped in a warm hug.This cosy welcoming town is full of wonderful characters who feel like old friends.
It was with a touch of melancholy that I began the final instalment of this fantastic series of Elmwood Stories. However, Lane Hayes made sure that the series went out on a high note with Puck Love, Jake Milligan and Mason Trinsky's story.
To say that Jake and Trinsky don't get along is an understatement 😅 #shinyjacket, but when one of the pro players can't make the annual summer junior hockey camp in Elmwood, Trinsky is called up. And given the press furore over their rivalry, both guys need to play nice!
Things don't always go to plan, however, when they are paired together for a camping trip. Some of the one-liners and barbs between them are hilarious! And yes, there is only one tent!
But as they start to see another side to their rival, and they realise they don't actually know each other, tensions build and spill over in the most delicious exploration between them.
As Jake and Mason (I love how he calls him by his name 🫠) spend the summer hooking up and, whilst they don't want to admit it, falling in love, we go on this wonderful journey with them and I totally fell in love with these two.
Jake is a character we've met throughout the Elmwood Stories, and I loved getting to know him more and seeing him as a big brother to his dad, Bryson, and Smitty's three young kids. Meanwhile, Mason hasn't always had things easy in life, and when we get to know him, we realise just how wonderful a guy he truly is. I adored seeing him with his brother, Eddie. I honestly have loved each couple in this series, but Jake and Mason are my favourites 😍🥹🫶
Puck Love made me laugh; it made me cry, and it made me fall completely head over heels for these guys. This book was unputdownable!
I loved getting to see a glimpse into the lives of all of our beloved characters from this series, and whilst I'm so sad this is the end of the journey in Elmwood, I'm excited for more from the Four Forest area with Lane Hayes' turning the focus to Wood Hollow in the future (and I'm hoping on some Elmwood cameos!)
Goodbye Elmwood, it's been an absolute joy, and I know I'll revisit you for rereads many times 🫶🏒♥️✨️
March 23, 2025
A highly recommended and heartwarming sendoff of a fantastic series. I love it. Read them in order and fall in love with this town and its people
Rating: 4.5🌈
It’s fitting that Lane Hayes brings her heartwarming series, The Elmwood Stories, to a close with one of the boys who we met in the earlier books.
Now grown and playing in the NHL, Jake Milligan is one of the boys we met from the first Elmwood junior hockey camp, and along with Denny Mellon, who’s been a character we’ve watched as their parents got their own romances in the early books.
So it’s perfect that the series finale will have Jake’s own story and we get to see many other familiar faces in this book as Jake’s enemies to lovers story unfolds.
The “enemy” is hockey arch rival Mason Trinsky, a trash talking, exuberant player who has made their rivalry a media firestorm to Jake’s chagrin.
Elmwood’s Junior Hockey Camp is now a huge success, with famous players participating as coaches and that’s how both Trinsky and Jake end up as partners for a camp weekend.
It’s a terrific story that Lane manages to bring together elements of bi awakening, Trinky’s family members with special needs as well as his mother’s history of addiction and recovery. That balances so well with the fears and need for control of Jake’s upbringing.
But we get juicy, sexy scenes of discovery, great characters, hockey, adorable kids in Eddie, Nathan, Ella and Charlotte. Truly a fabulous heartwarming story of love , family and finding your forever home.
Elmwood and its magical, small town places hold a special place in my heart. I know that I’ll be revisiting it and it’s love stories.
Lane is going to bring us a new series based in the neighboring town, Wood Hollow, and hopefully we will see some crossovers in characters. Vermont’s fictional Four Forest area has so much to offer and more towns to explore.
A highly recommended and heartwarming sendoff of a fantastic series. I love it. Read them in order and fall in love with this town and its people.
The Elmwood Stories:
You, Again #1
Next Season #2
Holiday Crush #3
Thin Ice #4
Hot Shot #5
Puck Love #6
Rating: 4.5🌈
It’s fitting that Lane Hayes brings her heartwarming series, The Elmwood Stories, to a close with one of the boys who we met in the earlier books.
Now grown and playing in the NHL, Jake Milligan is one of the boys we met from the first Elmwood junior hockey camp, and along with Denny Mellon, who’s been a character we’ve watched as their parents got their own romances in the early books.
So it’s perfect that the series finale will have Jake’s own story and we get to see many other familiar faces in this book as Jake’s enemies to lovers story unfolds.
The “enemy” is hockey arch rival Mason Trinsky, a trash talking, exuberant player who has made their rivalry a media firestorm to Jake’s chagrin.
Elmwood’s Junior Hockey Camp is now a huge success, with famous players participating as coaches and that’s how both Trinsky and Jake end up as partners for a camp weekend.
It’s a terrific story that Lane manages to bring together elements of bi awakening, Trinky’s family members with special needs as well as his mother’s history of addiction and recovery. That balances so well with the fears and need for control of Jake’s upbringing.
But we get juicy, sexy scenes of discovery, great characters, hockey, adorable kids in Eddie, Nathan, Ella and Charlotte. Truly a fabulous heartwarming story of love , family and finding your forever home.
Elmwood and its magical, small town places hold a special place in my heart. I know that I’ll be revisiting it and it’s love stories.
Lane is going to bring us a new series based in the neighboring town, Wood Hollow, and hopefully we will see some crossovers in characters. Vermont’s fictional Four Forest area has so much to offer and more towns to explore.
A highly recommended and heartwarming sendoff of a fantastic series. I love it. Read them in order and fall in love with this town and its people.
The Elmwood Stories:
You, Again #1
Next Season #2
Holiday Crush #3
Thin Ice #4
Hot Shot #5
Puck Love #6
March 23, 2025
The final book in the Elmwood series gives us the story of Jake and his on-ice nemesis Mason Trinsky. As with the other books in the series, the town of Elmwood takes centre stage for most of the action and I loved the glimpses of some of the earlier couples and people and businesses in the wider community.
Over the course of this series we’ve seen the growth of the town hockey camp, with some of the young characters from the earlier books growing up and becoming professional players by the later books - and Jake is another one of these, like Denny in the last book (Hotshot). I like a series that includes both father and son having their own stories (read Thin Ice for Jake’s Dad’s story). There’s something for everyone, with a wide age range of main characters throughout the series.
Jake and Trinsky were both likeable characters, and despite it being set up as an enemies to lovers trope, it was more a case of each one not really understanding the other until they got to know each other better and learnt a little of each other’s backgrounds. Once they started to become friendly (and started hooking up), the scenes of them just being friends and talking were some of my favourites.
The usual cast of supporting characters make an appearance, but I particularly enjoyed getting to know Trinsky’s younger brother Eddie and meeting Jake’s siblings and seeing how both men cared for their families.
Although this is the end of the Elmwood series, I’m pleased to see that Lane Hayes is planning a connected series with one of the neighbouring towns, it will be interesting to see what she has planned for us with the new characters - and I’m sure we will see some guest appearances.
Over the course of this series we’ve seen the growth of the town hockey camp, with some of the young characters from the earlier books growing up and becoming professional players by the later books - and Jake is another one of these, like Denny in the last book (Hotshot). I like a series that includes both father and son having their own stories (read Thin Ice for Jake’s Dad’s story). There’s something for everyone, with a wide age range of main characters throughout the series.
Jake and Trinsky were both likeable characters, and despite it being set up as an enemies to lovers trope, it was more a case of each one not really understanding the other until they got to know each other better and learnt a little of each other’s backgrounds. Once they started to become friendly (and started hooking up), the scenes of them just being friends and talking were some of my favourites.
The usual cast of supporting characters make an appearance, but I particularly enjoyed getting to know Trinsky’s younger brother Eddie and meeting Jake’s siblings and seeing how both men cared for their families.
Although this is the end of the Elmwood series, I’m pleased to see that Lane Hayes is planning a connected series with one of the neighbouring towns, it will be interesting to see what she has planned for us with the new characters - and I’m sure we will see some guest appearances.
March 24, 2025
I loved reading Puck Love and I’m sad to see The Elmwood Stories series end. However, if it had to end, this was the perfect way to do it. We first met Jake in Thin Ice, the love story for his father and I think it’s so cool that Lane gave Jake his own HEA. Each book in this series can be read as a standalone but all of them are fantastic stories that I highly recommend.
Puck Love is a bi-awaking, secret love, enemies-to-lovers story and it packed a punch for me. Jake and Trinsky start out as adversaries and rivals on separate hockey teams but things happen and they end up in a secret love affair.
The heat between these two guys is off the charts and they can’t stay away from each other. I love how we got to see their relationship develop over time. I especially adored Eddie, Trinsky’s brother, his character added a lot to the story and gave us a glimpse into Trinsky’s family situation and Jake was so cool with Eddie.
I have to say that epilogues are often my favorite part of a book and the one Lane Hayes wrote for Puck Love was so perfect; I loved it so much!
I can’t say enough good things about this series and while I’ll be sad to be away from Elmwood, I’m really looking forward to whatever Lane Hayes has in store next for her readers.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
Puck Love is a bi-awaking, secret love, enemies-to-lovers story and it packed a punch for me. Jake and Trinsky start out as adversaries and rivals on separate hockey teams but things happen and they end up in a secret love affair.
The heat between these two guys is off the charts and they can’t stay away from each other. I love how we got to see their relationship develop over time. I especially adored Eddie, Trinsky’s brother, his character added a lot to the story and gave us a glimpse into Trinsky’s family situation and Jake was so cool with Eddie.
I have to say that epilogues are often my favorite part of a book and the one Lane Hayes wrote for Puck Love was so perfect; I loved it so much!
I can’t say enough good things about this series and while I’ll be sad to be away from Elmwood, I’m really looking forward to whatever Lane Hayes has in store next for her readers.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
March 20, 2025
We are back in Elmwood for the final installment of the series and it was everything I hoped for and more.
Jake, a familiar face in Elmwood is having a difficult season and is annoyed at Mason Trinsky, his rival on the ice.
Trinsky is a cocky but brilliant player and is loved by the media so when he accidentally blames Jake's leather jacket as a reason for losing the Stanley Cup the press start the story of a feud.
Their agents seeing dollar signs, throw them together for a charity camping trip that will be filmed reality TV style
The sass and sniping in the men's conversation have them realise that they don't know each other, just the public personas they wear as a shield.
What the author does so well is the incremental steps toward understanding, respect, friendship and smexy times to become a love story. The vulnerability of them putting down their masks, Mason accepting his interest in a relationship with a man and Jake learning to navigate his way out of the closet was a beautiful tale of acceptance and compassion for themselves and each other
The back drop of small town Elmwood, the cast of previous books being included and the descriptive prose that make you feel like a fly on the wall all come together for a thoroughly entertaining read
I'm really going to miss this series.
I received an ARC from GRR but this opinion is all mine.
Jake, a familiar face in Elmwood is having a difficult season and is annoyed at Mason Trinsky, his rival on the ice.
Trinsky is a cocky but brilliant player and is loved by the media so when he accidentally blames Jake's leather jacket as a reason for losing the Stanley Cup the press start the story of a feud.
Their agents seeing dollar signs, throw them together for a charity camping trip that will be filmed reality TV style
The sass and sniping in the men's conversation have them realise that they don't know each other, just the public personas they wear as a shield.
What the author does so well is the incremental steps toward understanding, respect, friendship and smexy times to become a love story. The vulnerability of them putting down their masks, Mason accepting his interest in a relationship with a man and Jake learning to navigate his way out of the closet was a beautiful tale of acceptance and compassion for themselves and each other
The back drop of small town Elmwood, the cast of previous books being included and the descriptive prose that make you feel like a fly on the wall all come together for a thoroughly entertaining read
I'm really going to miss this series.
I received an ARC from GRR but this opinion is all mine.
March 17, 2025
4 ⭐️ 3 🌶️
This is the sixth offering in Hayes’s Elmwood Stories. Elmwood being a fictional town in Vermont that is teeming with professional hockey players, retired or otherwise. I’d recommend reading the series in order, but it’s not required.
Milligan and Trinsky were introduced in previous stories and become the MCs here after a pretty significant time jump. Jake Milligan was a kid the first time we met him, but he’s in his thirties now, and is embroiled in a rivalry with Mason Trinsky.
Their agents want to capitalize on the media attention and hatch a plan to force the two together for charitable purposes. Spending time together affords them the opportunity to get to know one another and maybe let go of some of their long-held, if false, beliefs about each other.
Rivals to lovers is my favorite sports romance trope. While this is a rivalry romance, I wouldn’t say it’s typical. It’s mostly pretty sweet. These are ultimately GOOD GUYS. Mason’s relationship with his brother makes him supremely lovable, and Jake is the kind of guy that really cares about other people.
Bottom line, this was a good read, and I’m likely to revisit Elmwood at some point in the future.
This is the sixth offering in Hayes’s Elmwood Stories. Elmwood being a fictional town in Vermont that is teeming with professional hockey players, retired or otherwise. I’d recommend reading the series in order, but it’s not required.
Milligan and Trinsky were introduced in previous stories and become the MCs here after a pretty significant time jump. Jake Milligan was a kid the first time we met him, but he’s in his thirties now, and is embroiled in a rivalry with Mason Trinsky.
Their agents want to capitalize on the media attention and hatch a plan to force the two together for charitable purposes. Spending time together affords them the opportunity to get to know one another and maybe let go of some of their long-held, if false, beliefs about each other.
Rivals to lovers is my favorite sports romance trope. While this is a rivalry romance, I wouldn’t say it’s typical. It’s mostly pretty sweet. These are ultimately GOOD GUYS. Mason’s relationship with his brother makes him supremely lovable, and Jake is the kind of guy that really cares about other people.
Bottom line, this was a good read, and I’m likely to revisit Elmwood at some point in the future.
March 24, 2025
Y’all, every new Elmwood book is my new favorite. These couples just keep getting better & better and again I have to say that these two may be my favoritist. They just stole my heart. Jake with his quiet seriousness, holding so much of the world on his shoulders. And loud, boisterous Trinsky, who hides a deeper, softer side. Opposites fighting it out on the ice and, mostly thanks to Trinsky’s big mouth, in the media as well. But time spent together gives them the opportunity to see a little further below the surface.
I loved how these two end up spending time together against their will but find themselves slowly getting to know each other. It is so sweet, so touching, as they discover more about each other. Their dedication and love for others, glimpses of the caring men they are. Creating an unexpected connection … and an inescapable attraction.
Puck Love is low angst, adorable, wholesome, sexy, and such a satisfying end to the series. Returning readers will have the opportunity to catch up with characters from past books, but this can be read as a stand alone … why would you want to tho!
**I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
I loved how these two end up spending time together against their will but find themselves slowly getting to know each other. It is so sweet, so touching, as they discover more about each other. Their dedication and love for others, glimpses of the caring men they are. Creating an unexpected connection … and an inescapable attraction.
Puck Love is low angst, adorable, wholesome, sexy, and such a satisfying end to the series. Returning readers will have the opportunity to catch up with characters from past books, but this can be read as a stand alone … why would you want to tho!
**I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
March 30, 2025
Another enjoyable Elmwood story
I really love this small town in Vermont and I wish it existed and I could move there. I’ve so enjoyed this series. Each of the couples’ stories have been great but in reality it’s the whole town and the whole vibe that’s really captured me. All of the MCs are great, including Jake and Trinsky in this book, but the secondary characters are fun too.
In this book we have an enemies to lovers story. We’ve moved along the timeline as the teenager heading off to college in Bryson and Smitty’s story is now an NHL veteran contemplating the end of his career. Jake plays for Boston and his nemesis, a player he sees as an immature, cocky, showboat, Trinsky plays for Denver. The media plays up the rivalry and after Trinsky essentially blames their Stanley Cup loss on Jake their agents work on a PR campaign getting them together and egging on the rivalry. Of course, that is the opposite of what happens.
It’s a sweet story and there’s a lot of baggage that each player carries and each one realizes they made a lot of bad assumptions about the other one. It is just the kind of story I needed to read right now given the daily angst in the real world.
I really love this small town in Vermont and I wish it existed and I could move there. I’ve so enjoyed this series. Each of the couples’ stories have been great but in reality it’s the whole town and the whole vibe that’s really captured me. All of the MCs are great, including Jake and Trinsky in this book, but the secondary characters are fun too.
In this book we have an enemies to lovers story. We’ve moved along the timeline as the teenager heading off to college in Bryson and Smitty’s story is now an NHL veteran contemplating the end of his career. Jake plays for Boston and his nemesis, a player he sees as an immature, cocky, showboat, Trinsky plays for Denver. The media plays up the rivalry and after Trinsky essentially blames their Stanley Cup loss on Jake their agents work on a PR campaign getting them together and egging on the rivalry. Of course, that is the opposite of what happens.
It’s a sweet story and there’s a lot of baggage that each player carries and each one realizes they made a lot of bad assumptions about the other one. It is just the kind of story I needed to read right now given the daily angst in the real world.
March 31, 2025
This is the kind of book that makes you smile, laugh ... and maybe yell at the characters a little. Jake and Mason are classic rivals - chirping, bickering, and constantly trying to one-up each other - but when they're forced to team up, well, things take a turn they didn't see coming.
The banter is sharp and witty, the tension is top-tier, and watching them go from enemies to more is just fun. Hayes does a fantastic job balancing humor, heart and heat, so the journey feels real and rewarding. While the plot follows the standard romance tropes, the dynamic still feels fresh and engaging, and the exploration of themes like self-discovery and that thin line between love and hate only adds depth to the narrative. The mix of sports, pranks and unexpected feelings keeps things moving, and by the end, you'll be rooting for these two to get it together and figure it out.
If you love hockey, enemies/rivals-to-lovers, and plenty of snark, this is worth the read!
**Note - this is the final book in a series, and I haven't read the others. I didn't find that to be a problem, though now I have to go read the rest of the books too!**
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
The banter is sharp and witty, the tension is top-tier, and watching them go from enemies to more is just fun. Hayes does a fantastic job balancing humor, heart and heat, so the journey feels real and rewarding. While the plot follows the standard romance tropes, the dynamic still feels fresh and engaging, and the exploration of themes like self-discovery and that thin line between love and hate only adds depth to the narrative. The mix of sports, pranks and unexpected feelings keeps things moving, and by the end, you'll be rooting for these two to get it together and figure it out.
If you love hockey, enemies/rivals-to-lovers, and plenty of snark, this is worth the read!
**Note - this is the final book in a series, and I haven't read the others. I didn't find that to be a problem, though now I have to go read the rest of the books too!**
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
March 19, 2025
What a great way to end a great series.
You have:
bi-awakening
enemies-to-lovers
small town
hockey
only one tent
I read all Elmwood Story books and I think Jake and Mason are my favourites. These two have so much to discover about themselves.
I love that it's a slow discovery from hating each other to realising that there is so much more to them.
Mason can't just stop pushing Jake to the limit, on and off ice, there is a rivalery and everyone is eating it up. Thrown together during the Elmwood hockey camp, they are starting to discover who is behind the hockey player and how much they begin to like this person.
I wouldn't say the physical side is a slow burn, they heat up the sleeping bags and sheet before being friends, but I love how they slowly begin to unravel each other emotionally and learn about each other.
There is chemistry, hidden behind hate or at least a severe dislike.
Mason is enthusiastic and open to discovering his bi-side and there is so much fun between these two. His love for his brother is just another point why I love this character so much.
The ending is just perfect. Even if the series is now over.
You have:
bi-awakening
enemies-to-lovers
small town
hockey
only one tent
I read all Elmwood Story books and I think Jake and Mason are my favourites. These two have so much to discover about themselves.
I love that it's a slow discovery from hating each other to realising that there is so much more to them.
Mason can't just stop pushing Jake to the limit, on and off ice, there is a rivalery and everyone is eating it up. Thrown together during the Elmwood hockey camp, they are starting to discover who is behind the hockey player and how much they begin to like this person.
I wouldn't say the physical side is a slow burn, they heat up the sleeping bags and sheet before being friends, but I love how they slowly begin to unravel each other emotionally and learn about each other.
There is chemistry, hidden behind hate or at least a severe dislike.
Mason is enthusiastic and open to discovering his bi-side and there is so much fun between these two. His love for his brother is just another point why I love this character so much.
The ending is just perfect. Even if the series is now over.
March 26, 2025
Puck Love follows Jake Milligan, a laid-back, hockey-loving guy who enjoys his family, his best friend Denny, and generally gets along with everyone—except for Mason Trinsky. Mason, a dedicated hockey player, holds a grudge against Jake after a Stanley Cup final where he blames Jake for his distraction and the subsequent loss. During the off-season, Elmwood hosts a junior hockey camp, and Jake and his family help out. When a coach drops out last minute, Mason is brought in to take over, with the catch that he and Jake must co-lead a team and share a tent. Tensions between them eventually lead to a hookup, and they begin to see that they don’t actually hate each other. Jake starts to understand Mason's more compassionate side, particularly his devotion to his younger brother, Eddie, who has special needs. As they grow closer, they fall in love. This "enemies to lovers" romance in the world of Elmwood is another great read from Lane Hayes, featuring well-developed characters and a heartfelt journey toward love. The dynamic between Jake and Trinsky is particularly well-crafted, making this one of the best enemies-to-lovers stories in recent memory.
March 27, 2025
4.25 Stars!
I enjoyed this rivals-to-lovers, angst-free story. Jake Milligan and Mason Trinsky really don't like each other on and off the ice, but both help out at the Elmwood summer camps every year. Jake tries to avoid Mason as much as possible, but Mason's actions make that impossible this year.
I really liked that Jake and Mason were finally forced to spend time together and face the misconceptions they each had about the other. Underneath they found an attraction that they didn't understand. I was glad that they had time to sort through what was happening before their friends and family found out; they clearly needed that time to themselves. I loved how Mason was with his brother and that Jake fit right in with them. I felt bad for them both when they didn't think they could stay together, but was glad that they found a solution and were finally happy together. I liked that their friends and family were supportive of their changed relationship. It was a wonderful addition to the series.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
I enjoyed this rivals-to-lovers, angst-free story. Jake Milligan and Mason Trinsky really don't like each other on and off the ice, but both help out at the Elmwood summer camps every year. Jake tries to avoid Mason as much as possible, but Mason's actions make that impossible this year.
I really liked that Jake and Mason were finally forced to spend time together and face the misconceptions they each had about the other. Underneath they found an attraction that they didn't understand. I was glad that they had time to sort through what was happening before their friends and family found out; they clearly needed that time to themselves. I loved how Mason was with his brother and that Jake fit right in with them. I felt bad for them both when they didn't think they could stay together, but was glad that they found a solution and were finally happy together. I liked that their friends and family were supportive of their changed relationship. It was a wonderful addition to the series.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
March 30, 2025
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Straight up I 100% love what i've read of this series so far and ngl i'm pretty sad that it's over! Something about Elmwood just hits and Hayes earned another solid 5 with Puck Love because it was marvelous!
There's rivalry, Jakey and Mase were making me laugh, it's got a cozy summer camp-Cali surf vibe and overall I just really loved the energy. As usual, the narrative was vibrant, with tons of lighthearted fun and charismatic characters, great banter and super sexy loving! Everything about the families and the kid siblings gave me heart-eyes, and the myriad ways the softest things got me up in my feelings just gave me so much joy. My heart was full, i was all smiles and i sighed a lot. Lane Hayes delivered in spades and I couldn't have asked for a better time!
This series is honestly such a gem, and i'm sincerely looking forward to when i can vacation binge the whole lot, because Puck Love was everything i could ask for in a romance and i simply could not get enough of it in my brain! Loved this!
Straight up I 100% love what i've read of this series so far and ngl i'm pretty sad that it's over! Something about Elmwood just hits and Hayes earned another solid 5 with Puck Love because it was marvelous!
There's rivalry, Jakey and Mase were making me laugh, it's got a cozy summer camp-Cali surf vibe and overall I just really loved the energy. As usual, the narrative was vibrant, with tons of lighthearted fun and charismatic characters, great banter and super sexy loving! Everything about the families and the kid siblings gave me heart-eyes, and the myriad ways the softest things got me up in my feelings just gave me so much joy. My heart was full, i was all smiles and i sighed a lot. Lane Hayes delivered in spades and I couldn't have asked for a better time!
This series is honestly such a gem, and i'm sincerely looking forward to when i can vacation binge the whole lot, because Puck Love was everything i could ask for in a romance and i simply could not get enough of it in my brain! Loved this!
March 30, 2025
How come I find this love story so sweet? Even with the so-called rivalry between Jake and Trinsky, I find them sweet and just a little afraid of how they truly feel inside.
Jake and Trinsky have been at this rivalry thing for some time now, and it gets notoriously big because of the media. not giving them a chance to just be themselves around each other. But this summer is going to be different because they will both be coaching young teens from Elmwood, Jake's hometown. Jake is quite while Trinsky is not. So things can go epically wrong or it can go really great.
What they didn't expect though is get to know each other. Under all those bravado and loudness, Trinsky is really a smart guy who adores his younger brother. Jake, although quiet, feels too much, loves his family and his step siblings so much. He misses home.
These two are just so sweet for me, the things they do for their families and the attraction that Jake and Trinsky feel for each other became more evident the more they spent time with each other.
Congratulations Ms. Lane Hayes, I love this and I cannot wait for more!
Jake and Trinsky have been at this rivalry thing for some time now, and it gets notoriously big because of the media. not giving them a chance to just be themselves around each other. But this summer is going to be different because they will both be coaching young teens from Elmwood, Jake's hometown. Jake is quite while Trinsky is not. So things can go epically wrong or it can go really great.
What they didn't expect though is get to know each other. Under all those bravado and loudness, Trinsky is really a smart guy who adores his younger brother. Jake, although quiet, feels too much, loves his family and his step siblings so much. He misses home.
These two are just so sweet for me, the things they do for their families and the attraction that Jake and Trinsky feel for each other became more evident the more they spent time with each other.
Congratulations Ms. Lane Hayes, I love this and I cannot wait for more!
March 19, 2025
The Elmwood Stories have all been such fun, but I think Puck Love is the best one yet.
Jake and Mason’s dynamic is electric, with the perfect balance of tension, rivalry, and undeniable chemistry. Mason’s journey of realizing he’s bi—or at least demi—feels authentic and compelling, while Jake’s first real exploration of his bisexuality adds an extra layer of depth to their relationship. The small-town setting of Elmwood has become as familiar and comforting as ever, and the ensemble cast brings warmth and charm, making each book in the series feel like returning to a favorite place.
And the banter—the humor in this book is absolutely on point. I lost count of how many times I laughed out loud. The mix of witty dialogue, playful teasing, and genuine emotion made this an incredibly satisfying read.
It all builds to a poignant climax, where emotions run high before everything falls into place, tying up loose ends in a way that feels both earned and deeply satisfying. And, of course, Jake and Mason get the heartfelt happily-ever-after they deserve. I just loved it.
Jake and Mason’s dynamic is electric, with the perfect balance of tension, rivalry, and undeniable chemistry. Mason’s journey of realizing he’s bi—or at least demi—feels authentic and compelling, while Jake’s first real exploration of his bisexuality adds an extra layer of depth to their relationship. The small-town setting of Elmwood has become as familiar and comforting as ever, and the ensemble cast brings warmth and charm, making each book in the series feel like returning to a favorite place.
And the banter—the humor in this book is absolutely on point. I lost count of how many times I laughed out loud. The mix of witty dialogue, playful teasing, and genuine emotion made this an incredibly satisfying read.
It all builds to a poignant climax, where emotions run high before everything falls into place, tying up loose ends in a way that feels both earned and deeply satisfying. And, of course, Jake and Mason get the heartfelt happily-ever-after they deserve. I just loved it.
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