Behind the Net Review

by Stephanie Archer

From the Back

He’s the hot, grumpy goalie I had a crush on in high school… and now I’m his live-in assistant.

After my ex crushed my dreams in the music industry, I’m done with getting my heart broken. Working as an assistant for an NHL player was supposed to be a breeze, but nothing about Jamie Streicher is easy. He’s an intimidatingly hot, grouchy jerk who can’t stand me. The guy has a massive ego. Keeping things professional will be no problem, even when he demands I move in with him.

Beneath his surliness, though, Jamie’s surprisingly sweet and protective.

When Jamie learns how bad my ex was in bed, his competitive nature flares, and he encourages and spoils me in every way. The creative spark I used to feel about songwriting? It’s back, and I’m writing music again. Between wearing his jersey at games, rowdy parties with the team, and being brave on stage again, I’m falling for him.

He could break my heart, but it might be worth it.

Behind the Net is a grumpy-sunshine pro hockey romance with lots of spice and an HEA. It’s the first book in the Vancouver Storm series, and can be read as a standalone.

Themes

• Grumpy/Sunshine & "Boy Obsessed" Romance: This theme highlights a serious, reserved male protagonist who becomes protective and deeply committed to the lively, optimistic female lead.

• Rebuilding Self-Worth and Personal Growth: Pippa regains her confidence as a musician, while both characters enhance their lives and achieve happiness together.

• Redefining Family and Loyalty: The narrative explores the characters, especially Pippa, as they navigate complex familial relationships and create new, supportive bonds.

Review

I found this to be an exceptional story of healing in numerous ways. Pippa and Jamie are endearing characters. The narrative begins with their reunion, leaving the question of whether they remember each other, which was skillfully executed. It was gratifying to witness their mutual support. I appreciated the absence of unnecessary drama involving other women. The way both characters dealt with issues related to their ex-partners in a mature manner was commendable. The clear communication between the protagonists was refreshing. Overall, it is a delightful story for those who enjoy a "grumpy to sunshine" dynamic with excellent chemistry and a sense of found family. It is a promising start to the series, and I eagerly anticipate the subsequent books.