Big Stick Energy by Sarina Bowen
4 ⭐️
1.5 🌶️
🏒 Hockey + workplace romance
🏒 Fake dating
I really enjoyed this book! It followed the first book of this series well; out of the 2, I’d say this is my favorite!
The plot and characters were well developed. There was good humor, spice, banter, and of course good romance. We get a nice amount of the sports aspect throughout the book which is something I really appreciate in a sports romance.
Eric is very golden retriever and he’s a bit of a ✨freak in the sheets✨. Darcy is a hardworking, admin badass. We have some trauma bonding and both MCs grow throughout the book. Also, I loved reading about their family dynamics. The whole wedding subplot was soooo captivating.
The onlyyyy parts that didn’t work for me were the use of modern/social media phrases (with the exception of one character lol) and the many Taylor Swift references (my sincerest apologies 😅).
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this ARC!
#sportsromancebooks #arcreader #BookReview #bookrecommendations #hockeyromance
As an avid reader of sports romance, I found "Big Stick Energy" by Sarina Bowen to be a standout in combining the thrill of hockey with an engaging workplace romance and a fake dating trope that keeps the storyline fresh and entertaining. What really sets this book apart is how it effectively integrates the sports element throughout the narrative, creating a genuine atmosphere that fans of both romance and hockey can appreciate. Eric’s characterization as a lovable, golden retriever type who surprises with his passion adds a charming depth to the story, while Darcy’s portrayal as a hardworking, competent admin brings a grounded and relatable perspective. Their dynamic is enhanced by authentic trauma bonding, making their emotional journey compelling and heartfelt. The focus on family relationships and the captivating wedding subplot provide layers of intrigue beyond the sports romance cliches. The mix of witty banter and humor offers lightness that balances the more intense themes, preventing the novel from becoming overly dramatic. However, readers who find modern social media slang and frequent pop culture references distracting might see this as a minor flaw. Despite this, the book offers a rich blend of character development and plot momentum that makes it a favorite within the series. For those who enjoy Ari Bowen’s writing style or are looking for a well-rounded hockey romance, this book is a must-read. It skillfully explores themes of personal growth, romance, and the pressures of professional sports, all wrapped in a fun, spicy, workplace relationship. Overall, "Big Stick Energy" is a compelling addition to the sports romance genre that I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone looking for a blend of sports action and heartfelt romance.