Playing the Neutral Zone

by S.L. Sterling

Everything I’d ever done had been because of Scarlett Green.I’d worked hard in school, played hard but trained harder all while waiting for her to get her degree. Her brother, my best friend, knew how I felt about her and the only promise I’d made to him was that I’d wait to make my move until after she’d graduated.

That day finally came, and I’d come home to celebrate with her and send her on her way to new job in a new city. The exact same city I was living in, New York. It was finally going to be our time. I planned to offer her a place to live. After all, I had just bought a large three-bedroom condo after signing a five-year contract with the New York Predators.

Only our time was short lived when my past came back to haunt me in the form of a child I knew nothing about. Overnight, my life was turned upside down. Like the good woman Scarlett is, she immediately put a stop to everything between us, demanding I concentrate on learning how to raise my baby boy while playing hockey.

Now, five years later, I’ve gotten control over our life when the news came that I was being traded to the Vancouver Dominators. Without debate I moved to Vancouver. Within six months of my return, I ran into Scarlett and her brother at one of our home games. She's not only moving to Vancouver but she is here to do an article on the team for the new Canadian division of the Ice Insiders, a sports publication. After one disastrous run in with her I learn she's living in my building and looking to find Mr. Right. I figured now might be the perfect time to pick up where we left off, after all I was certain she was meant to be mine.

Genres: Second Chance, Hockey, Contemporary, Sports Romance

204 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 22, 2025

About the author

USA Today Bestselling Author S.L. Sterling was born and raised in southern Ontario.

An avid reader all her life, S.L. Sterling dreamt of becoming an author. She decided to give writing a try after one of her favorite authors launched a course on how to write your novel. This course gave her the push she needed to put pen to paper and her debut novel "It Was Always You" was born.

When S.L. Sterling isn't writing or plotting her next novel she can be found curled up with a cup of coffee, blanket and the newest romance novel from one of her favorite authors.

In her spare time, she enjoys camping, hiking, sunny destinations, spending quality time with family and friends and of course reading.

Amazon: https://geni.us/SterlingAmazon
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearomance
Instagram: https://geni.us/SLSterlingInstagram
Twitter: https://geni.us/SLSterlingTwitter
Bookbub: https://geni.us/SLSterlingBookbub
Sterlings Silver Sapphires: https://geni.us/SapphiresReaderGroup
Newsletter Signup: https://geni.us/GRNewsletterSignUp
Goodreads: https://geni.us/SterlingGoodreads
Tiktok: https://geni.us/slsterlingtiktok

Reviews

[Darkromancearabia Jin · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars for Levi!!

I'm not really a fan of sports romance, but S.L. Sterling is changing my mind…
Playing the Neutral Zone is a second-chance romance (actually, a third chance if we’re being honest), and I loved it.
Levi loves Scarlett with all his heart. He waited for her to finish school, respected his best friend (her brother)'s wishes. But when life threw him a curveball in the form of a child from a one-night stand, everything changed. Scarlett left. She wasn’t ready to be a mom; and neither was he ready to be a dad but he stepped up. She didn’t.
Honestly, I felt she was selfish. Love means sticking around, supporting each other through the hard stuff. And she just... left. Yes, she regrets it later but to me, it felt like it was too late.
I think Levi was too forgiving. She didn’t deserve to have him back that easily. She didn’t fight for him; he did all the work. He took her out. He made the effort. And then she betrayed him again. Not personally, but through her boss and an article. That was his breaking point, and mine too actually.
That’s when the story truly hit me. Her groveling, her regret, the raw emotion… That’s when I got emotional. That’s when I smiled from the bottom of my heart. I even cried (maybe I’m getting too sensitive lately).
I loved Levi. Really, really loved him. His loyalty, his devotion, the respect he showed Scarlett and her brother... He’s the kind of book boyfriend that sticks with you.
As for Scarlett, she lacked backbone for most of the story, but I’ll give her credit for redeeming herself in the end.
I love how the team members support each other.
All in all: loved the book, love the series, and I can’t wait for the next one.
Recommended.

[Suzanne Normandeau Legault · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dominators from Vancouver are at it again with one of their players. This time it’s Levi Anderson’s turn to find love only to lose it time and time again. Being in love with his best friends sister for years , Levi and Scarlett must overcome the challenges that have kept them apart for years and yet they never stopped being in love with each other. A spicy, high emotional and compelling reading that will keep glued to the last page along with the inevitable tears. This author knows how to capture you, and her writing is amazingly addictive. A very recommended reading!

[Desiree Henley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the Vancouver Dominators series and S.L. Sterling has once again tugged on my heartstrings with Playing the Neutral Zone. This book follows Levi and his relationship with Scarlett. Their journey is unique because they've known one another for a long time with plans to be together and yet somehow circumstances are not in their favor. There were times I wanted the two together and other times I wanted to shake them apart. Sterling has brought me into a world I never want to leave with characters that have depth and I'm truly invested in their lives. Plus, I love getting the chance to read how the other couples are doing too. And the ending of this book blew my mind! OMG! I was not expecting what happened to happen but if you want to find out you'll need to read the book yourself. No spoilers.

[Jenn Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great read! I loved that the story could pull all the feels with lovable characters. Levi and Scarlett have a deep connection, something that is hard to deny even after time has went by. Levi is amazing. He stepped up, he's a great dad, and that love... swoon worthy for sure! I enjoyed getting to dig into their story and their ups and downs. Add in the great friendships with the guys, how close they all are and it all comes together well. I'm on the edge of my seat, looking forward to the next book in this series!

I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Kelchickbooklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love second chance romances. The chemistry that has been simmering under the surface. The heart beating for that one person who owns it. But most of all, it is the happiness shared between two soulmates that pulls on my heartstrings. This is exactly what Ms. Sterling gives us in Playing the Neutral Zone. Her attention to detail, the way she draws you in with her brilliant writing and her characters are easy to relate to and sympathize with. Playing the Neutral Zone is a single dad, hockey sports, brother's best friend romance that will surely find a spot in your heart.
We finally get Levi and Scarlett's story, which is filled with heartbreak, angst, determination and a love that never died. Just when they could act upon the feelings they have been fighting for a few years, their lives fall apart. He finds out he is a dad and is now responsible for the sweetest little girl, Mia. Next to have the only woman he has ever loved leave him and start living her life without him. Years later, they come face to face only to have a hate to love relationship and words are said that can't be taken back. But the magnetism between them is still as strong and Levi is not going to stop at trying to get her back. Scarlett made Levi work for it and I loved her sassiness and her strength to not just give in. To see her grow from the girl she was at the beginning of the book to the woman who stood up and spoke her mind was beautiful.
The bonus was the guys on the team and the way they razzed one another, yet at the same time, were always there for each other. Then there is cute and sweet Mia, who stole every scene she was in. Her innocence and tell it like it is personality melted my heart and had me laughing at the same time.
Another great addition to a must-read series and I look forward to the next book. The teaser at the end of this book piqued my interest.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Sterling has given us an outstanding romantic storyline with wonderful characters. This is book 4 in the Vancouver Dominators Hockey series and it’s just as romantic and swoon worthy as the first three. Levi and Scarlett have had eyes for each other for years. But since she was younger than he was, he promised her brother (his best friend) he wouldn’t make his move until she graduated college and Levi stuck to his promise. But just as they were starting to share their worlds, Levi’s life gets turned inside out when a one night stand drops off an infant at his door and tells him he’s the father. Scarlett overhears this and takes off leaving Levi devastated. So he throws himself into his hockey career and being the best father he can be. Fast forward 5 years. Levi runs into Scarlett again when he learns she has taken a Sports reporting job for Ice Insiders in the same town as Levi. But Levi still hurts from Scarlett's betrayal so is it even possible for these two to rekindle things to even the point of friendship? After all she was engaged to another man, at least that’s what the newspaper said. Not to mention he doesn’t want to put anyone in his daughter's life who is just going to walk away again.

This is a very touching, heartfelt romance with some time of joy and time of heartbreak. All things are not smiles and roses for Levi or Scarlett and they haven’t been since the day she walked away from him. They both have and continue to make many mistakes but hopefully a true love is one worth fighting for, or is it?

I can’t recommend this book and the series enough. I’ll simply say grab them up asap and enjoy. As for the reader, she can’t wait to see what happens next with the Vancouver Dominators.

2 Thumbs Up and 5 Stars

[World Of Books 65 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four books in and the Vancouver Dominators series by S.L. Sterling continues to deliver the perfect storm of hockey heat, heartfelt emotion, and messy, magnetic love stories. In Playing the Neutral Zone, we finally get Levi and Scarlett’s long-awaited, tension-filled romance—and it’s one that comes with a whole lot of history and one absolutely adorable six-year-old game-changer named Mia.

This story is a delicious mix of tropes: single dad ✔️, friends-to-almost-lovers ✔️, enemies-to-lovers ✔️, and the cherry on top—brother’s best friend ✔️. Sterling weaves them together with ease, delivering a story that’s full of longing, missed chances, and second-shot chemistry that never fizzled out—not even after five years apart.

Levi is everything you want in a hockey hero—strong, loyal, and doing his best to raise his daughter after a surprise twist from a one-night stand turns his whole world upside down. I adored Levi from the start, but I’ll be honest—Scarlett took a little more warming up to. While their teenage feelings were mutual and full of promise, when that promise collided with real-life responsibility (and baby Mia), Scarlett’s decision to leave Levi behind felt frustrating. She chose to walk away instead of fighting for them, telling him he needed to focus on being a father—and that she was too young to step into a mother’s shoes.

But here’s where Sterling really redeems her heroine. When Scarlett returns as a sports journalist—now reluctantly working for a publication more interested in scandal than sportsmanship—she gets a second chance not just at love, but at growth. As secrets are revealed and emotional walls start to crumble, Scarlett rises to the moment. She reclaims her strength, her love, and her future.

With the Vancouver Dominators providing that classic locker room banter, and Mia stealing hearts in every scene she’s in, Playing the Neutral Zone is layered with emotional depth, sizzling chemistry, and a satisfying payoff. This is a romance about timing, second chances, and learning to step up when it matters most.

An emotional, trope-packed win that scores big. Can’t wait to see who’s next in the Dominators lineup!

Perfect for fans of:
   •   Catherine Gayle
   •   Kelly Jamieson
   •   Samantha Lind
   •   Kristen Callihan’s Game On series

[Jenna Paavola · Rating 5 out of 5]

Playing the Neutral Zone is the fourth book in the Vancouver Dominators series. This book can be read as standalone, so if you want you don’t have to read the previous books but the characters from the previous books appear in this book as well.

This book is a mix of different tropes and I’m here for that!
• Single dad
• Friends to almost lovers
• Second chance romance
• Brother’s best friend

Playing the Neutral Zone finally gives us the long-waited love story between Levi and Scarlett. Levi has been in love with his best friend’s sister for years but a promise to that brother kept them apart longer than necessary. When they finally were ready for their love story to start unexpected surprises found them. Now years later they meet again and realize that they still love each other. They still have a few challenges to overcome before their possible happy-ever-after.

This book is filled with heartfelt and messy emotions, hocky heat, tension, spice and main characters that are drawn to each other. This book is magnetic and will keep you interested in the outcome of Levi and Scarlett’s story. There is a classic locker room banter, there-for-you teammates and an adorable six-year-old. I read this book in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down. The story kept me glued into the pages. The author’s writing is amazing, and she knows how to capture your attention.

I can’t wait to see what is in store for the rest of the series! I would recommend this book!

[Star-Book Reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This different take on the best friend’s sister, hockey romance with an unusual surprise baby took me on an emotional rollercoaster ride and my like and dislike of the two main characters went along for the ride. Levi Anderson has been friends with Scottie Green since a young age playing hockey and Scottie’s sister, Scarlett, always tagged along. When things developed between them Levi made a promise to Scottie he wouldn’t touch Scarlett until she graduated college. The different take is that Scottie is supportive of them and when things go wrong he’s the one in the middle trying to help them out. Now for the unusual surprise baby, that one I’m not telling but needless to say it’s going to cause a problem. In fact, this book is also about not only a second chance but a third chance so like I said, it’s a rollercoaster ride and you will have to make up your own mind if you think Levi was right or Scarlett was right or were they both wrong at times? The Dominators players are back in force with their witty and inspiring advice to each other bringing humor often when maybe it shouldn’t be for the one on the receiving end of their advice yet they do have each others back. I just wish the book hadn’t ended quite like it did…not a cliffhanger concerning Levi and Scarlett but definitely left me with too many questions.
I received an Advance Review Copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Playing the Neutral Zone is a heartwarming, closed-door hockey romance that pairs devotion, longing, and heartfelt emotion with the excitement of second chances. The story follows Levi, a hockey player who has loved Scarlett Green for years—working hard, training harder, and holding back due to a promise he made to her brother, his best friend. Their romance is sweet and slow-burn, set against the backdrop of Levi’s hockey career and Scarlett’s journey of self-discovery.

What truly stands out is the emotional depth of Levi and Scarlett’s connection. Both must overcome several obstacles—not just the “best friend’s sister” trope but also personal fears and insecurities. The story develops their relationship with plenty of tenderness, gentle tension, and realistic challenges, making you root for their happily ever after.

The book is a refreshing change from the genre’s usual spice, focusing more on romantic buildup and emotional payoff. The supporting cast, family dynamics, and hockey camaraderie add warmth without distracting from the central love story.

If there’s a drawback, it’s that the plot sticks closely to familiar tropes and the pacing can be leisurely at times, but these are minor quibbles in a sweet, feel-good romance.

Perfect for fans who enjoy closed-door stories, “best friend’s sister” drama, and hockey romance with genuine heart, Playing the Neutral Zone delivers a satisfying read with plenty of emotional highlights and second-chance swoon.

[Marea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Levi Anderson and Scarlett Green were meant to be together from the first moment they met years before. But there was always something that stood in the way. First it was her brother, Levi’s best friend who told him hands off and then there was her finishing college. This was it though, they would be together, letting everyone know how serious they were. That was until there was a knock on the door and a baby left for Levi. Scarlett didn’t want to, but she knew she would have to walk away and allow him to be the parent he needed to be, even if it meant heartbreak. Years past and they would both be in the same city again. Levi playing for the Vancouver Dominators and Scarlett working for the Ice Insiders a new sports publication. Would the third time be the charm or would there be doors shut on them being together yet again.
This is next in the Vancouver Dominators series and isn’t disappointing. The love, the sorrow, the spiciness and the reality of life not being perfect. It is a book that captures your attention right from the start and keep it until the end through the good, the bad and the ugly.

Thanks to the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Scarlett Green and Levi Anderson had been a couple and very much in love seven years ago. But Levi had promised his best friend who was Scarlett's brother that he wouldn't make a move on Scarlett until she graduated.
When that happened she had gotten a job in NY that happened to be in the same city that Levi was playing in. Both were excited and she was going to move in with him except that didn't happen and instead a woman with a baby girl from a one night stand showed up and dropped the baby off and left. And then Scarlett left.

Now years later Levi has been traded to the Vancouver Dominators, a team where he had settled in and doing well. What he didn't expect down the road was to see Scarlett in Vancouver and working for a sports publication and doing an article on several of the team players including Levi.
Just when they figure things out and all is going well between them again, it all turns around.

Will they ever get their second chance?

3.5-4 stars
For me it was just ok. The back and forth between them was so much and again brings up the trust and love issues. I think it ended abruptly and left us hanging. I'm sure it's all for the next book but could have ended differently.

[Flavs is Mrs David Gandy♥~♥’ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.50 Stars

Levi has been in love with Scarlett since forever. And he has been waiting patiently for her to finish school so they could tell her brother that they were an item. But when things were going so well, fate stepped in and now Levi is a single dad and he lost the life of his life, when Scarlett left.

Now his daughter is 6years old and look who is back in his life… Scarlett works for a magazine that covers sports, and she was just given an opportunity of a lifetime. Get an interview with Levi and she will have the promotion she has been waiting.

Personally, I was not a fan of Scarlett. Levi did everything right. He gave Scarlett a second chance. But I felt like Scarlett betrayed him once and then she did it again with signing up to write an article on him.

I felt like Levi did everything to make their relationship work, and she had to put in the effort to win him back. Loved the story, and the little bit of angst, loved the characters, well Levi and his daughter more than Scarlett, lol. Lots of emotion and drama, just what you would love in a romance 😊

Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner

[Marni Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever picked up a series that just sucked you right in , in ways you never would have expected ? That had you falling in love with each and every character / couple from the very first book and where you found yourself completely immersed in the world the author has created ? That had the ability to make you feel so many different emotions you never saw coming? Everything from smiling and laughing out loud , to crying like a baby to actually being speechless at times and screaming outta pure frustration during others . That had you cheering so freaking hard from start to finish, Kinda like being on the craziest ride at the amusement park !!! you know that feeling you get in your stomach from being excited and nervous at the same time - the anticipation of whats to come next ? Well S.L Sterling’s Vancouver Dominators Series has very quickly become that for me . In fact if you had asked me prior to reading Playing The Neutral Zone to choose a favorite couple I would have said absolutely impossible. But something about Levit and Scarlett just grabbed onto my heart and OMG was I a goner

[Sassy Southern Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Playing the Neutral Zone was a beautifully written, emotional, and heartbreaking book by S.L. Sterling, and I loved every page of this book. My heart was in this book from the first chapter, and it broke and mended itself a few times throughout their epic journey. This book took me on an emotional ride that I will be feeling for a while. The storyline was original and page-turning. S.L. Sterling's books are filled with drama, action, angst, heartbreak, and redemption. Her books are always well-paced from start to finish, and I love her Vancouver Dominators series. This is part of the series and can be read as a standalone, but I recommend starting from the beginning; you will not be disappointed. It is addictive and exciting. Scarlett and Levi have an undeniable and intense chemistry from the beginning, and I loved the journey they went on in this book, from everything they experienced. This book is a hockey romance with a second chance, bff's, sister/brother bff romance, and will have you swooning, fist-pumping, and getting a little teary-eyed. I can't wait to get Colton's story, it looks amazing!!!-By Brooke

[Trace · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 4th book in the Vancouvere Dominator series. The couple in the one is Scarlett and Levi.
They have known each other for years and wanted to be together but they made a promise to wait until she has finished school. Just when they thought it was about to happen, there was a knock on his door that changed everything.
Six years later they are put together again when she is interviewing them for Ice Insider and also live in the same building. He doesn't like to be interviewed for many reasons. One you will find out about and understand.
After spending time together they realize they still have very strong feelings for each and end up being together. Her boss wants to get some inside dirt and info about Levi but she doesn't want too.
She hands in a article but her boss rewrites it and Levi get very angry. Which brings up a lot of trouble for Levi. He won't let her explain.
So she tries again by writing letter to him and about him and posts it.
Let's just say it works and they get back together and get their HEA.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth book in this amazing series, and this is Levi and Scarlett’s story.
Levi is in love with his best friend’s sister, Scarlett, but he promised her brother he would not act on his feeling until she graduates. Scarlett moves to New York for a job, in the same city where Levi plays. Levi’s past comes back to haunt his when he finds out he is a single dad to baby Mia, and Scarlett steps back for his to concentrate on adjusting to being a dad. Five years later Levi is traded to the Vancouver Dominators, and he runs into Scarlett and her brother at one of his home games, only to find out that Scarlett returned to her hometown 6-months previously. Will they finally get a chance to be together?
This is a well written story with family, friendships, emotions, angst, heartbreak, determination, lovers / enemies / lovers, second chances, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and sweet, hockey romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Bernie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The storyline is quite involved. We learn the Levi and Scarlett have been friends and almost lovers since she was 13 years old. He held off a full relationship until she qualified from her education program and as it came together, it suddenly fell apart. It was her decision after a woman turned up with a baby and to give Levi time to take to his responsibility being a father. Years later, time has moved on for them both, but time has not erased the feelings of the past. It is a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows, truths and lies.
On a side issue, because it feels unfinished in detail, is the scene around Skyler's comments in interview as to her being fired and Levi's reaction to her pregnancy. Apart from this reference there is no further discussion or question. It peters out to nothing.
There is a general move towards Levi and Scarlett's HEA, which isa fitting ending to their story; the book ends with a bit of a cliffhanger as an insight into the next book and another team player's problems to dangle a little teaser in front of the reader.

[Amanda Schumacher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh MY GOSH!!! Levi and Scarlett are amazing!! this story is sweet, angsty, with push and pull.. its also heart wrenching! I can't love this enough!

Long time friends Levi and Scarlett have always had a thing for each other. Levi is Scarlett's brother's best friend who made him wait until she graduated university to date her. They were starting their relationship; Levi had his daughter dropped on the doorstep for him to take care of. Scarlett left him, not because he had a daughter but so he could focus on his daughter and his hockey career. Scarlett has made a career in sports reporting and transferred to the Vancouver branch of the Ice Insiders newsletter. The new boss asks an impossible task of Scarlett. Levi has been wary of her being in his life again. He starts to trust her with his secrets in his life like his daughter Mia who gets super attached to Scarlett.


When love and career collide; you never know what's going to happen... this is a MUST read!

[Brandy Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

Levi and Scarlett I knew had some kind of knew they had some history when Scarlett was mentioned and they asked Levi about it at the end of Two Minutes for Holding. Getting their story was amazing. I love how Levi was closed off and guarded when she first showed up. I also love how it started with how they knew each other and how they had feelings for one another. I love a good backstory at the beginning so we know a little more going into it. Now when little peanut showed up I was like screaming and understanding with Levi. How Scarlett's boss did her dirty was messed up. I love how it ended and I cannot wait to see what this series holds for the rest of the guys and getting glimpses into the lives of the past characters. S. L. Sterling you left me on a cliffhanger but I shall forgive since I know there will be another book because I know you wouldn't be that cruel to leave us hanging like that forever.

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Playing the Neutral Zone is the fourth book in the Vancouver Dominators hockey series and this time we are focused on Levi Anderson, the single dad who likes to stay out of the media. This story follows Levi and his relationship with his best friends younger sister, Scarlett over a number of years from when they were younger into the present, after they haven't spoken to each other since their sudden breakup. As they work through the obstacles that saw them separated years earlier and the challenges of navigating their individual careers this is an emotional story about second chances. I always love the team chats between the guys and how they all support and rally around each other, giving their individual perspectives on the situation. The ending seemed to happen quite quickly, however after reading the epilogue I can't wait to read the next book in the series. If you love your hockey romances then I highly recommend this series!!!

[Renee Entress · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 star

The story has laughs, secrets, pain, second chance, and heartbreak.

If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Inside the Penalty Box (Vancouver Dominators #1)
Ten Minute Misconduct (Vancouver Dominators #2)
Two Minutes for Holding (Vancouver Dominators Book 3)

This is Scarlett and Levi’s story. These two have history and now might have a future together but it’s going to take work and a lot of pushes from a cute little girl. These two wanted a future before but it was cut short when he found out he was a father. She didn’t want that and walked away. Now years later they run into each other, and the pull is still there. Can they build something when the past was so cruel? Or will they try only for it to fall apart again? Second chance at a forever with the help of a little girl. DO they have what it takes build a forever?

I recommend this book.

[Sahar's Honest Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Second Chances on Ice
Scarlett and Levi were supposed to be each other’s future. Once she graduated, they planned to finally take that step from friendship into something more. But the night their lives were meant to change, everything fell apart. A woman arrived at Levi’s door with a child he never knew existed, and Scarlett—practical and selfless—insisted he focus on being a parent.
Five years later, fate puts them in the same city again. Scarlett is working as a sports journalist, Levi is still on the ice, and yet he treats her like she’s his rival instead of the woman he once loved. Why so grumpy, Levi? When he finally lets his guard down, he dares to suggest they pick up where they left off—but second chances aren’t simple. There are old wounds, fresh betrayals, and challenges that won’t vanish overnight.
If you enjoy second-chance sports romances that tug at your heart before stitching it back together, this one might just be for you.

[Liberty Munson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Second chance romance is my least favorite trope, but I have been enjoying this series so I decided to read this one (while these are standalone, they work better when read in order and together). I struggled to like Sophie because she not only left Levi when he needed her the most, she basically ghosted him and then fell into another relationship, getting engaged shortly after... and then she let herself be coerced into researching an article that was intended to smear Levi. Despite everything, I became invested in the story. All of these bad decisions move the plot forward and keep you turning the pages to find out how this will all come crashing down around them.

Of course, it does and suddenly, you are rooting for Sophie. If you're invested in this series, this is a must read because it adds layers to the Vancouver Dominators universe.

[Lilian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Levi has been waiting for the longest time for Scarlett, his best friend’s sister, to graduate and join him in New York. Unfortunately, before their relationship can progress further, Levi is informed of the greatest shock in his life! He is now a father to Mia.

A series of events lead to their separation till they meet six years later, this time in Vancouver. The separation has led to misunderstandings and also misconceptions of each other. Unfortunately, circumstances continue to attempt to tear them apart.

I loved the presence of Scott in their lives. He truly gave good advice and thank God for his impartiality in their relationship. Beyond that, I loved how the Dominators family continues to be a strong support for each member of the family.

[Jackie Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Playing The Neutral Zone is single dad Levi Anderson and Scarlett Green’s friends to enemies to lovers story. It’s book four in the Vancouver Dominators Series and it touched me on so many levels from the emotions to the twists and turns I didn’t see coming.
Levi and Scarlett were meant to be together but there was always something in their way so years later when they end up in the same city it seems fate is working in their favour for once…..
Would this be the break they need or once again will someone or something break their hearts all over again.
This is a well written heartbreaking and heartwarming story, I fell hard and fast for Levi and I adored Scarlett but it was a little girl named Mia who stole my heart and the show.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Levi would do anything for Scarlett and that included honoring his best friend and Scarlett’s brother’s wish that he keeps his distance until she finished school. With that accomplished he believes that they can finally be together only to have his life uprooted by finding out he is a dad however Scarlett wasn’t ready for the responsibilities that would require.

Five years later fate brings them together once again and the chemistry and connection between them is stronger than ever. Once again when the happiness they both want is within their reach they will have an obstacle to overcome that will test their relationship as choices will have to be made.

This is a second chance at love for Levi and Scarlett that is filled with romance, challenges and all the feels.

[Lou Li Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 4 in the Vancouver Dominators series. We're back with the hockey men and their lovely ladies! This is the story of Levi, newly traded to Vancouver and his endless love with Scarlett. Scarlett is Levi's best friends younger sister, and their relationship that started many years ago. She knew she was in love at just 13, but life happened and timing was never on their side. Both deeply in love but unable to pull it together. Lots of emotions in this book, I really felt for Scarlett, and I'm sure I cried with her. A quick read, a standalone with interconnected characters.

I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own

[Stefanie Nelson hetland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scarlett and Levi grew up together. Levi had promised Scottie he would not get in a relationship with Scarlett until she graduates. The day she is going to move in with Levi and tell her brother a surprise appears on Levi’s doorstep. Instead of waiting to get more information from Levi she runs. Fast forward 6 years and Scarlett gets a new job reporting on the hockey team Levi plays for. They think it’s all figured out and another speed bump happens. Love this hockey team and cannot wait for more.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Playing the Neutral Zone by S.L. Sterling is the story of Levi and Scarlett. They were a thing long ago. But, she cut it off after a shocking revelation. Now, years later, she wants to change things….but, he is very bitter and really doesn’t want to see her. Both of these characters have issues they need to deal with. But, neither of them do….until it’s too late….

They both have their own drama to deal with. Both have past mistakes and problems. But, neither approaches them appropriately nor timely. This story was quite good and really tugged at the heartstrings!!