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New York Legends #1
Thrown for a Loop
Win a free print copy of this book!
4 days and 09:16:51
25 copies available
U.S. and Canada only
Fans suspect that the bad boy of hockey has a few skeletons in his closet. They have no idea he also has a sparkly bodysuit… #toepick!
When they met at figure skating camp ten years ago, Chase Merritt was a scrappy hockey player from the wrong part of town, and Zoe Carson was the up-and-coming ice princess. They fell in love faster than you can say triple toe loop, until Zoe makes a fateful error that ends up costing Chase dearly.
Almost a decade later, their fortunes are reversed. Chase is the MVP of the New York Legends hockey team, while Zoe—their new skating coach—has years’ worth of personal and professional bruises. It’s hard to face him again—all six feet and two hundred pounds of muscle and swagger.
And anger. Chase is in hot water with management, and refusing to work with Coach Zoe no matter how badly he needs to shore up his stride—and his image. Until a journalist digs up an old video of Zoe and Chase performing a skating program, and the internet goes wild.
Management seizes on the opportunity for a P.R. redemption, ordering Zoe and Chase to reprise their flashy routine.
Skating with him again—to a love song, of course—is pure agony. But it’s also Zoe’s only chance to unpack the truth of what really happened that night ten years ago. And to at least find forgiveness, if she can’t win back his heart.
When they met at figure skating camp ten years ago, Chase Merritt was a scrappy hockey player from the wrong part of town, and Zoe Carson was the up-and-coming ice princess. They fell in love faster than you can say triple toe loop, until Zoe makes a fateful error that ends up costing Chase dearly.
Almost a decade later, their fortunes are reversed. Chase is the MVP of the New York Legends hockey team, while Zoe—their new skating coach—has years’ worth of personal and professional bruises. It’s hard to face him again—all six feet and two hundred pounds of muscle and swagger.
And anger. Chase is in hot water with management, and refusing to work with Coach Zoe no matter how badly he needs to shore up his stride—and his image. Until a journalist digs up an old video of Zoe and Chase performing a skating program, and the internet goes wild.
Management seizes on the opportunity for a P.R. redemption, ordering Zoe and Chase to reprise their flashy routine.
Skating with him again—to a love song, of course—is pure agony. But it’s also Zoe’s only chance to unpack the truth of what really happened that night ten years ago. And to at least find forgiveness, if she can’t win back his heart.
384 pages, Paperback
First published November 4, 2025
55 people are currently reading
9069 people want to read
About the author
Sarina Bowen
104 books18.7k followers
Sarina Bowen is the 24-time USA Today bestselling and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of contemporary fiction, including: The Five Year Lie, the True North series, and the Brooklyn Hockey series. She's the co-author of Him/Us and the WAGs series with Elle Kennedy. And more!
You can find a complete reading order list of Sarina's books on her website. Or see what's coming next from Sarina, and sign up for her newsletter so you don't miss a new book or a deal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 626 reviews
July 26, 2025
4 ⭐️
Thrown for a Loop by Sarina Bowen is a second chance hockey romance with mild The Cutting Edge vibes, forced proximity, great side characters and just a touch of spice. As a hockey fan, this hit the spot and was the perfect palate cleanser between some heavier reads.
Ten years ago, teenage hockey player Chase and figure skater Zoe met at a skating camp and had a brief but intense connection until a mistake by Zoe cost Chase his summer job and more, leaving things on a sour note. Now, Zoe is an Olympic silver medalist turned skating coach for the New York Legends, the same team where Chase is a star player struggling through a tough season. Their unexpected reunion is awkward, to say the least. When an old video of their skating routine resurfaces and goes viral, team management sees a PR opportunity and forces them to perform the routine again, this time for charity.
The story is told in dual timelines—present day and ten years ago. In the first half of the book, flashback chapters alternate with the present, which made it a little harder for me to stay focused on what was happening in the present. However, in the second half, the flashbacks are spaced out more, which made it easier for me to stay connected to the present-day story.
Both Zoe and Chase were likable MCs, and I really liked that you could see how they matured in that decade spent apart. The reason for their ten year gap felt plausible, and there was only one tiny miscommunication that got resolved quickly, so huge kudos for handling those aspects well. This was my first Sarina Bowen novel but most definitely won’t be my last. I’m looking forward to Darcy and Tremaine’s story which will be the next in this new series.
My thanks to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for my eARC. Expected Pub date 11/4/25.
Thrown for a Loop by Sarina Bowen is a second chance hockey romance with mild The Cutting Edge vibes, forced proximity, great side characters and just a touch of spice. As a hockey fan, this hit the spot and was the perfect palate cleanser between some heavier reads.
Ten years ago, teenage hockey player Chase and figure skater Zoe met at a skating camp and had a brief but intense connection until a mistake by Zoe cost Chase his summer job and more, leaving things on a sour note. Now, Zoe is an Olympic silver medalist turned skating coach for the New York Legends, the same team where Chase is a star player struggling through a tough season. Their unexpected reunion is awkward, to say the least. When an old video of their skating routine resurfaces and goes viral, team management sees a PR opportunity and forces them to perform the routine again, this time for charity.
The story is told in dual timelines—present day and ten years ago. In the first half of the book, flashback chapters alternate with the present, which made it a little harder for me to stay focused on what was happening in the present. However, in the second half, the flashbacks are spaced out more, which made it easier for me to stay connected to the present-day story.
Both Zoe and Chase were likable MCs, and I really liked that you could see how they matured in that decade spent apart. The reason for their ten year gap felt plausible, and there was only one tiny miscommunication that got resolved quickly, so huge kudos for handling those aspects well. This was my first Sarina Bowen novel but most definitely won’t be my last. I’m looking forward to Darcy and Tremaine’s story which will be the next in this new series.
My thanks to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for my eARC. Expected Pub date 11/4/25.
October 27, 2025
Needing a fresh start, former figure skating queen Zoe Carson gets a gig as a hockey skating coach for the NHL team the New York Legends. It would be an easy and even an enjoyable job if she didn’t have to come face-to-face with the man who broke her heart ten years ago. But she can handle this inconvenience until she sees the cold fire of anger in his blue eyes whenever he looks at her.
Confused by his anger and the lingering love she still has for him, Zoe tries to keep her distance until a series of unfortunate events, like a brawl at a bar, Chase’s need for help with his skating, and a video of them skating when they were young going viral, force them to be together. They were once magic on and off the ice when they were together, but now their distrust in each other is making them off sync. Can Zoe and Chase put aside their anger and hurt to not only solidify Zoe as a skating coach but also to heal the wounds that have been bleeding all over their lives for a decade?
I am not going to lie, I did not go into this expecting to enjoy it. 😏
I don’t have anything against hockey or romances at all, but perhaps I thought it was going to be slightly cheesy and predictable. Well, most romances are kinda predictable (which is why I enjoy reading them when I want an easy read), but this book was more than just a romance. Sure, it was part of the plot, but it was mainly about Zoe trying to make her mark as a skating coach for the team and realizing she needed to create boundaries with those trying to control her, with a splash of mystery that kept me intrigued to the very end. The romance part was just the cherry on top, which I really appreciate. Not only did I root for Zoe and Chase and their second-chance romance, but I also felt that the ending was well-deserved, given the characters' growth, communication, and eventual resolution. 👏🏼
All that to say, I really enjoyed this book. I loved the terminology and literally everything concerning figure skating and hockey. I feel somewhat smarter now, lol! 😂 I also liked the banter and friendships Zoe created with everyone on and working with the team. It felt real and was more than amusing, putting a stupid smile on my face when the guys would joke around with Chase or defend Zoe. 🤭
This story was just really fun! 🤩 I think I needed it after reading a heartbreaking book, so perhaps it was just right place, right time. Either way, I am so excited that this is going to be a series, which means more hot hockey players and relatable FMCs! Apparently, the next book is about Darcy and Tremaine, so, yes, queen, I am all here for it! 👏🏼😆
I totally recommend this cute and fun hockey romance, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did! 🏒⛸
Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley for the free arc! All opinions and statements are my own.
❗Content Warnings❗
Loss of a parent, mentions alcoholic and abusive parent, & blood
Swearing: Yes
Spice: Yes, but mainly mentions it. (🌶🌶/5)
Confused by his anger and the lingering love she still has for him, Zoe tries to keep her distance until a series of unfortunate events, like a brawl at a bar, Chase’s need for help with his skating, and a video of them skating when they were young going viral, force them to be together. They were once magic on and off the ice when they were together, but now their distrust in each other is making them off sync. Can Zoe and Chase put aside their anger and hurt to not only solidify Zoe as a skating coach but also to heal the wounds that have been bleeding all over their lives for a decade?
I am not going to lie, I did not go into this expecting to enjoy it. 😏
I don’t have anything against hockey or romances at all, but perhaps I thought it was going to be slightly cheesy and predictable. Well, most romances are kinda predictable (which is why I enjoy reading them when I want an easy read), but this book was more than just a romance. Sure, it was part of the plot, but it was mainly about Zoe trying to make her mark as a skating coach for the team and realizing she needed to create boundaries with those trying to control her, with a splash of mystery that kept me intrigued to the very end. The romance part was just the cherry on top, which I really appreciate. Not only did I root for Zoe and Chase and their second-chance romance, but I also felt that the ending was well-deserved, given the characters' growth, communication, and eventual resolution. 👏🏼
All that to say, I really enjoyed this book. I loved the terminology and literally everything concerning figure skating and hockey. I feel somewhat smarter now, lol! 😂 I also liked the banter and friendships Zoe created with everyone on and working with the team. It felt real and was more than amusing, putting a stupid smile on my face when the guys would joke around with Chase or defend Zoe. 🤭
This story was just really fun! 🤩 I think I needed it after reading a heartbreaking book, so perhaps it was just right place, right time. Either way, I am so excited that this is going to be a series, which means more hot hockey players and relatable FMCs! Apparently, the next book is about Darcy and Tremaine, so, yes, queen, I am all here for it! 👏🏼😆
I totally recommend this cute and fun hockey romance, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did! 🏒⛸
Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley for the free arc! All opinions and statements are my own.
❗Content Warnings❗
Loss of a parent, mentions alcoholic and abusive parent, & blood
Swearing: Yes
Spice: Yes, but mainly mentions it. (🌶🌶/5)
September 15, 2025
4 stars
This book was so much fun! I love hockey, figure skating, and Sarina Bowen, so I was sure this would be a win for me. And it was! Chase and Zoe meet at a skating camp when they're teens. A chunk of this book takes place back then, but the majority takes place about 10 years later. Chase is a famous hockey player, and Zoe is a skating coach. I loved watching their second chance love story blossom. I enjoyed the slow burn romance and I'm excited to read more from this series.
This book was so much fun! I love hockey, figure skating, and Sarina Bowen, so I was sure this would be a win for me. And it was! Chase and Zoe meet at a skating camp when they're teens. A chunk of this book takes place back then, but the majority takes place about 10 years later. Chase is a famous hockey player, and Zoe is a skating coach. I loved watching their second chance love story blossom. I enjoyed the slow burn romance and I'm excited to read more from this series.
July 14, 2025
Ten years ago, the characters spent a summer at figure skating camp, quickly fell in love, but one mistake on Zoe’s part tore them apart. Chase is now the MVP of the New York Legends hockey team, while Zoe is their new skating coach. It seems he is still holding a grudge, and she realizes the attraction between them hasn’t gone anywhere.
The moment I got the ARC, I dove right in—this is a brand-new hockey romance from Sarina Bowen! The book follows a dual timeline—we get to see how their love first blossomed, how fiercely Zoe’s mother protected her, and how vulnerable but hopelessly in love Chase was back then. In the present day, things are different—Zoe is a confident woman who can stand her ground, while Chase is a grumpy, closed-off guy. It was so satisfying to watch his walls slowly come down as he let her back into his life.
I also really appreciated how much actual hockey and figure skating are in this book—you can tell the author truly knows what she’s talking about!
The past chapters were written in third person, which made switching between timelines a bit tricky. I would’ve preferred those scenes to also be in the characters’ POVs to keep the emotional flow more consistent.
I finished the book in a day and genuinely enjoyed it! I’m super intrigued by Darcy and Tremaine and can’t wait to read their story next!
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
✓hockey romance
✓second chance
✓dual timeline
✓forced proximity
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The moment I got the ARC, I dove right in—this is a brand-new hockey romance from Sarina Bowen! The book follows a dual timeline—we get to see how their love first blossomed, how fiercely Zoe’s mother protected her, and how vulnerable but hopelessly in love Chase was back then. In the present day, things are different—Zoe is a confident woman who can stand her ground, while Chase is a grumpy, closed-off guy. It was so satisfying to watch his walls slowly come down as he let her back into his life.
I also really appreciated how much actual hockey and figure skating are in this book—you can tell the author truly knows what she’s talking about!
The past chapters were written in third person, which made switching between timelines a bit tricky. I would’ve preferred those scenes to also be in the characters’ POVs to keep the emotional flow more consistent.
I finished the book in a day and genuinely enjoyed it! I’m super intrigued by Darcy and Tremaine and can’t wait to read their story next!
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
✓hockey romance
✓second chance
✓dual timeline
✓forced proximity
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
September 9, 2025
Thank you Netgalley and to Grand Central Publishing as well as the author for providing me with this ARC, in exchange for my honest review.
OMMMG I loveeed this book! I couldn't put it down. Chase Merritt and Zoe Carson met at skating camp 10 years ago while they were kids. They had instant connection but Zoe's mom drove them apart. Life goes on and eventually Zoe lands a coaching job at the Legends, New York hockey team, where Chase plays.
Cannot wait to read the rest of series when the books come out. Hopefully they are as great as this one.
OMMMG I loveeed this book! I couldn't put it down. Chase Merritt and Zoe Carson met at skating camp 10 years ago while they were kids. They had instant connection but Zoe's mom drove them apart. Life goes on and eventually Zoe lands a coaching job at the Legends, New York hockey team, where Chase plays.
Cannot wait to read the rest of series when the books come out. Hopefully they are as great as this one.
October 19, 2025
This one was actually really good. Very easy to read and wasn’t as frustrating as I was thinking it was going to be considering the second chance — and effectively the miscommunication I saw coming a mile away — but the way it unfolded was kinda refreshing but also too good to be true?
The reason it’s not exactly five stars is because the way the miscommunication was resolved felt a little anticlimactic?? Like I needed more drama. Maybe that’s just my chaos loving self being greedy but idk it needed a little more umph iykwim.
Other than that I liked the characters, their roles in the book and surprisingly the past/present time jumps too.
I cannotttt wait for Darcy and Tremaine’s book 🤭🤭🤭
ೃ⁀➷ Thank you NetGalley and Forever for the ARC! ♥︎
The reason it’s not exactly five stars is because the way the miscommunication was resolved felt a little anticlimactic?? Like I needed more drama. Maybe that’s just my chaos loving self being greedy but idk it needed a little more umph iykwim.
Other than that I liked the characters, their roles in the book and surprisingly the past/present time jumps too.
I cannotttt wait for Darcy and Tremaine’s book 🤭🤭🤭
ೃ⁀➷ Thank you NetGalley and Forever for the ARC! ♥︎
July 15, 2025
I've only read the Him series by this author, but I saw this arc available and it looked really good so I thought "why not?". Well guys, I really love hockey romance.
Thrown for a Loop is told in a dual timeline, first person with our main character, Zoe, in the present and past in second person. Not gonna lie, that threw me off at first, but I soon got used to it and it didn't bother me much. We follow a hockey player and a skating coach that in the past skated together in a skating camp. The dual timeline made the story addictive, I couldn't put it down because I just needed to know what happened. This was the perfect length, the right amount of angst and spice too.
Is it a little cheesy? Yes. A bit too cliche? Definitely. But sometimes that's all you want.
I'm looking forward to the second book in the series, I'll miss these characters in the meantime.
Thank you Netgalley and Forever for the ARC!
Thrown for a Loop is told in a dual timeline, first person with our main character, Zoe, in the present and past in second person. Not gonna lie, that threw me off at first, but I soon got used to it and it didn't bother me much. We follow a hockey player and a skating coach that in the past skated together in a skating camp. The dual timeline made the story addictive, I couldn't put it down because I just needed to know what happened. This was the perfect length, the right amount of angst and spice too.
Is it a little cheesy? Yes. A bit too cliche? Definitely. But sometimes that's all you want.
I'm looking forward to the second book in the series, I'll miss these characters in the meantime.
Thank you Netgalley and Forever for the ARC!
November 8, 2025
4 Mushroom Free Pizza Stars⭐️
Spicy Rating: 🌶️.5/5
You can just tell when someone has a passion for hockey and ice sports because it comes out in the writing so well. This is what you ARE LOOKING FOR in a hockey romance. After reading a couple of not-so-good ones, picking this up felt so refreshing! I was immediately sucked into the story, in love with these characters and their world, and having the best time seeing them find love again!
This follows Zoe Carson and Chase Merritt. About ten years ago; Zoe, an Olympic medalist figure skater, and Chase, a college hockey player, both were working at a figure skating summer camp. Chase does not really know who Zoe is and did not realise that her mother is actually the owner and main coach of the camp. The two strike up a friendship and eventually a cute little summer romance that leads to both of their hearts getting broken, and he blocked her and never speaks to her again. Now she has become a technical skating coach for Chase's NHL team, the New York Legends, and the two are put in a position where they have to choose to overcome what happened when they were teenagers or keep avoiding it, with the extra complication that neither of them has gotten over each other. Now Chase has a little PR situation he needs to deal with, and somehow someone finds footage of the two of them skating together. This becomes the perfect opportunity to clean his image and make some money for charity by having both of them re-perform their piece from years ago, meaning they have no choice but to spend time together.
𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨:
I really like Zoe’s character. She has always been in a situation where her mom and her ex-husband told her how to live, what to eat, what to wear, how to act, and how to be. A typical stereotype of what it is like being a professional athlete when your overbearing mother is your coach. Now she is finally doing something for the first time for herself and is just trying to make the best of a difficult situation. I love how brave she is now as an adult and how open she is to discussing her feelings. She was open and communicative about what happened with her and Chase and is just trying to make things better between them. She really cares about him and who he is, and you can see that care in everything she does. She was just such a commendable character.
Chase is a little cinnamon roll, but he has a very dark past. He came from an abusive parental relationship, and when his mom died, he never really had the best childhood. After what happened with him and Zoe, he clawed himself out of that awful upbringing. He is now successful and completely grumpy, moody and broody. AND he is not happy that Zoe has come back into his life and is messing it up. He still has massive feelings for her and still cares about her, so he struggles with this dynamic how present-day Zoe fits while being deeply hurt by their past.
I really like the way this story was told. In that, we see the two of them fall in love across two timelines. The past scenes are told in third person, primarily focused on Chase’s situation and what he went through, with a little insight into what Zoe is doing. It’s mostly about Chase and how he falls in love with Zoe. The present is told in first person from Zoe’s perspective, as she re-falls in love or adds more fuel to the fire of her attraction to Chase. It’s sweet to see them go through this journey twice and find their way back to each other. It really solidifies the idea of soulmates. In the beginning, it’s the right person at the wrong time, but now it’s the right person at the right time, and they finally have a chance to make it work. They’re adults now; they just need to work through a few things.
Now, I did want a little more of the development of their relationship as adults. They fall back into love very easily.
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨 and 𝙈𝙞𝙘𝙧𝙤 𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
▶ Hockey Romance
▶ She's his Coach
▶ Second Chance Romance
▶ Forced Proximity
▶ Always Been You
▶ Grumpy X Neutral
▶ Dual Timeline
▶ Grey Sweatpants
▶ Nicknames
▶ Brings Her Food and Remembers Her Order
▶ "Mine"
Basically, if my issues weren't there, this would have been a five-star for me. Overall, though, this was a really beautiful romantic second chance story, and AGAIN I love how much you can see Sarina Bowen loves Ice Skating and Hockey by how much love and attention she gave to the descriptions and how she writes about each sport. It's not just "insert any sport in here" type of writing, but ACTUAL HOCKEY AND ICE SKATING!
Thank you to Forever Publishing, NetGalley and Sarina Bowen for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Spicy Rating: 🌶️.5/5
You can just tell when someone has a passion for hockey and ice sports because it comes out in the writing so well. This is what you ARE LOOKING FOR in a hockey romance. After reading a couple of not-so-good ones, picking this up felt so refreshing! I was immediately sucked into the story, in love with these characters and their world, and having the best time seeing them find love again!
“Zoe, I measure every woman I meet against what we had that summer. And they’ve all fallen short. I spent ten years trying to forget you, and I couldn’t do it. Not even for a single day.”𝙎𝙮𝙣𝙤𝙥𝙨𝙞𝙨:
This follows Zoe Carson and Chase Merritt. About ten years ago; Zoe, an Olympic medalist figure skater, and Chase, a college hockey player, both were working at a figure skating summer camp. Chase does not really know who Zoe is and did not realise that her mother is actually the owner and main coach of the camp. The two strike up a friendship and eventually a cute little summer romance that leads to both of their hearts getting broken, and he blocked her and never speaks to her again. Now she has become a technical skating coach for Chase's NHL team, the New York Legends, and the two are put in a position where they have to choose to overcome what happened when they were teenagers or keep avoiding it, with the extra complication that neither of them has gotten over each other. Now Chase has a little PR situation he needs to deal with, and somehow someone finds footage of the two of them skating together. This becomes the perfect opportunity to clean his image and make some money for charity by having both of them re-perform their piece from years ago, meaning they have no choice but to spend time together.
𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨:
I really like Zoe’s character. She has always been in a situation where her mom and her ex-husband told her how to live, what to eat, what to wear, how to act, and how to be. A typical stereotype of what it is like being a professional athlete when your overbearing mother is your coach. Now she is finally doing something for the first time for herself and is just trying to make the best of a difficult situation. I love how brave she is now as an adult and how open she is to discussing her feelings. She was open and communicative about what happened with her and Chase and is just trying to make things better between them. She really cares about him and who he is, and you can see that care in everything she does. She was just such a commendable character.
Chase is a little cinnamon roll, but he has a very dark past. He came from an abusive parental relationship, and when his mom died, he never really had the best childhood. After what happened with him and Zoe, he clawed himself out of that awful upbringing. He is now successful and completely grumpy, moody and broody. AND he is not happy that Zoe has come back into his life and is messing it up. He still has massive feelings for her and still cares about her, so he struggles with this dynamic how present-day Zoe fits while being deeply hurt by their past.
I really like the way this story was told. In that, we see the two of them fall in love across two timelines. The past scenes are told in third person, primarily focused on Chase’s situation and what he went through, with a little insight into what Zoe is doing. It’s mostly about Chase and how he falls in love with Zoe. The present is told in first person from Zoe’s perspective, as she re-falls in love or adds more fuel to the fire of her attraction to Chase. It’s sweet to see them go through this journey twice and find their way back to each other. It really solidifies the idea of soulmates. In the beginning, it’s the right person at the wrong time, but now it’s the right person at the right time, and they finally have a chance to make it work. They’re adults now; they just need to work through a few things.
Now, I did want a little more of the development of their relationship as adults. They fall back into love very easily.
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨 and 𝙈𝙞𝙘𝙧𝙤 𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
▶ Hockey Romance
▶ She's his Coach
▶ Second Chance Romance
▶ Forced Proximity
▶ Always Been You
▶ Grumpy X Neutral
▶ Dual Timeline
▶ Grey Sweatpants
▶ Nicknames
▶ Brings Her Food and Remembers Her Order
▶ "Mine"
Basically, if my issues weren't there, this would have been a five-star for me. Overall, though, this was a really beautiful romantic second chance story, and AGAIN I love how much you can see Sarina Bowen loves Ice Skating and Hockey by how much love and attention she gave to the descriptions and how she writes about each sport. It's not just "insert any sport in here" type of writing, but ACTUAL HOCKEY AND ICE SKATING!
Thank you to Forever Publishing, NetGalley and Sarina Bowen for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own
November 4, 2025
this book was so cute!! i’m always down for a second chance romance, and this one was no different. the dual timeline was SO CUTE. chase was so obsessed with zoe when they first met at a skating camp. the yearning!!!!! the tender, stolen moments!!
the present timeline also gripped me. when zoe joins his nhl team as a new coach, he hates her and she’s trying to make amends. there’s also this subplot of workplace harassment that made me question basically everyone.
🎧 brooke bloomingdale and ryan hudson acted their parts so well!! zoe came across so strong and smart and chase was down bad and yearning. I couldn’t ask for anything more.
the two of them were made for each other and I had such a great time!! thank you forever pub and hachette audio for the gifted copies!
the present timeline also gripped me. when zoe joins his nhl team as a new coach, he hates her and she’s trying to make amends. there’s also this subplot of workplace harassment that made me question basically everyone.
🎧 brooke bloomingdale and ryan hudson acted their parts so well!! zoe came across so strong and smart and chase was down bad and yearning. I couldn’t ask for anything more.
the two of them were made for each other and I had such a great time!! thank you forever pub and hachette audio for the gifted copies!
November 3, 2025
As soon as I had the chance to read Thrown For A Loop, I took it... and I absolutely loved it. I devoured it, couldn't put it down.
Chase Merritt and Zoe Carson met at a skating camp when they were teens. They started a sweet relationship, but their break up was so devastating they didn't speak ever again. After an incredible career as a figure skater, Zoe has landed a coaching job at the Legends, New York hockey franchise. After so many medals, she has now to win the players trust and to gain their respect, but it won't be easy because Chase is one of them, and he still despise her.
Zoe and Chase are funny, kind, and driven. Their tension and attraction are palpable, but they can't move forward together if they don't clarify what happened in the past first.
I've enjoyed their journey, it was a pleasure to see them get over their misunderstandings and to build a more mature and stronger relationship because they deserve their happily ever after.
Sarina Bowen wrote a new hit with her engaging storytelling, exciting sports scenes, and charming characters. It was a nice touch to tell the present story through Zoe's pov and the past through Chase's one, it set a good flow, also giving more depth to the story and the characters.
I can't wait to continue the series because there are other two players I'm curious about.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for kindly giving me an advanced copy of this book to read.
August 27, 2025
This is a fun and cute little hockey book with a solid storyline and writing. Zoe and Chase first met as coaches at a skating camp years ago. After a contentious ending, they are now back working together, with her as a skating coach and him as a professional hockey player. When their old skating videos resurface, they are brought back together for the good of the team and their reputations.
The setup of this book was interesting. The present-day chapters were told from Zoe’s POV, while the flashbacks were from Chase’s POV. I thought that was a unique choice, but I am not sure it was very effective here. I wished it had been dual POV in both time frames. The flashbacks also stopped halfway through, and I felt the pacing could have been adjusted to carry that structure throughout the entire book.
Overall, it was very cute, but I am especially looking forward to the next book. Those characters caught my eye, and their story seems like it will be even more fun.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the advanced copy!
The setup of this book was interesting. The present-day chapters were told from Zoe’s POV, while the flashbacks were from Chase’s POV. I thought that was a unique choice, but I am not sure it was very effective here. I wished it had been dual POV in both time frames. The flashbacks also stopped halfway through, and I felt the pacing could have been adjusted to carry that structure throughout the entire book.
Overall, it was very cute, but I am especially looking forward to the next book. Those characters caught my eye, and their story seems like it will be even more fun.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the advanced copy!
November 2, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I don’t know why I waited so long to read this ARC because once I finally sat down with it, I read the entire thing in one sitting. I literally could not put it down.
I loved the dual timeline and how seamlessly it moved back and forth between when they first met and the present. The transitions were so smooth. The scenes felt complete before shifting, so nothing ever felt abrupt or jarring. A lot of authors struggle with that balance, but Sarina Bowen absolutely nailed it here.
I adored both characters. They had been through so much, both together and separately, and because they were so young when everything first happened, they didn’t have the words for any of it. Getting to watch them finally open up, talk through their past, and grow together was honestly beautiful.
If you love books where a woman steps into a career typically dominated by men, this one belongs on your TBR immediately. The vibes were the perfect mix of Chelsea Curto and Peyton Corinne. If you enjoy either of their writing styles, you are going to fall absolutely in love with this story.
And I have to say it. I am already obsessed with book two. I figured out who it would be about halfway through, and now I am counting down the days. I am so excited to see where this series goes next.
I don’t know why I waited so long to read this ARC because once I finally sat down with it, I read the entire thing in one sitting. I literally could not put it down.
I loved the dual timeline and how seamlessly it moved back and forth between when they first met and the present. The transitions were so smooth. The scenes felt complete before shifting, so nothing ever felt abrupt or jarring. A lot of authors struggle with that balance, but Sarina Bowen absolutely nailed it here.
I adored both characters. They had been through so much, both together and separately, and because they were so young when everything first happened, they didn’t have the words for any of it. Getting to watch them finally open up, talk through their past, and grow together was honestly beautiful.
If you love books where a woman steps into a career typically dominated by men, this one belongs on your TBR immediately. The vibes were the perfect mix of Chelsea Curto and Peyton Corinne. If you enjoy either of their writing styles, you are going to fall absolutely in love with this story.
And I have to say it. I am already obsessed with book two. I figured out who it would be about halfway through, and now I am counting down the days. I am so excited to see where this series goes next.
July 12, 2025
Thrown for a Loop by Sarina Bowen
It’s the off-season. No NHL games. No highlights. No dramatic fights over puck possession. So what do I do? I read about hot hockey players falling for fiercely independent women who have zero time for their nonsense. Enter Chase and Zoe — and suddenly, my off-season is looking a lot more interesting.
Zoe is a driven, no-nonsense ice skating coach who’s worked hard to carve out a stable, drama-free life. The last thing she needs is to get tangled up with a cocky hockey player — especially not one who once made her feel like a fool and never really apologized.
But when circumstances force Zoe and Chase, professional hockey player and walking temptations back into each other’s orbit, the spark between them is very much not dead. There’s tension, history, grudges, and a whole lot of banter — and when feelings start to slip through the cracks, things get complicated fast.
Zoe & Chase: Second-Chance Tension Done Right
Zoe is sharp, practical, and has ice in her veins — in the best way. She’s the kind of heroine who keeps her guard up, especially around ex-flings who are too handsome for their own good. She’s focused on her coaching career and has no interest in playing emotional defense against Chase… again.
Chase is charming, slightly clueless, and somehow both cocky and genuinely sweet. He’s carrying a little career baggage, a lot of pride, and more emotional intelligence than you'd expect — when it counts. His arc is all about showing up, growing up, and finally saying what needed to be said years ago.
Their dynamic? Sizzling with unresolved tension, sarcastic quips, stolen glances, and that delicious “we shouldn’t… but we want to” energy. Slow-burn with a history. My favorite kind.
Sass, Spice, and everything nice
There’s no shortage of humor here — Zoe’s internal commentary alone had me grinning. She’s blunt, sharp, and painfully honest in her thoughts, especially when Chase pushes her buttons (which he does. Often. On purpose).
The side characters are fun, vibrant, and bring extra life to the story without stealing focus. And the worldbuilding around the ice — both Zoe’s figure skating world and Chase’s hockey universe — is well done without being overly technical.
And let’s be honest: the spice hits exactly when and how it should. It’s not over the top — it’s earned, intimate, and layered with real emotion. Just how I like it.
4 stars — because even when the rinks are quiet, my love for hockey romance is alive and well.
Thrown for a Loop gives you:
An ice queen coach with a sharp tongue and zero tolerance for BS
A charming, slightly regretful hockey player trying to earn his second shot
Banter that stings, kisses that melt, and tension that refuses to die
And the perfect off-season escape with heart, heat, and humor
Hockey may be out of season — but this romance? Absolute playoff material.
Thank you Netgalley, Forever Grand Central Publishing and Sarina Bowen for my eArc, I was under no obligation to review, all opinions are my own.
It’s the off-season. No NHL games. No highlights. No dramatic fights over puck possession. So what do I do? I read about hot hockey players falling for fiercely independent women who have zero time for their nonsense. Enter Chase and Zoe — and suddenly, my off-season is looking a lot more interesting.
Zoe is a driven, no-nonsense ice skating coach who’s worked hard to carve out a stable, drama-free life. The last thing she needs is to get tangled up with a cocky hockey player — especially not one who once made her feel like a fool and never really apologized.
But when circumstances force Zoe and Chase, professional hockey player and walking temptations back into each other’s orbit, the spark between them is very much not dead. There’s tension, history, grudges, and a whole lot of banter — and when feelings start to slip through the cracks, things get complicated fast.
Zoe & Chase: Second-Chance Tension Done Right
Zoe is sharp, practical, and has ice in her veins — in the best way. She’s the kind of heroine who keeps her guard up, especially around ex-flings who are too handsome for their own good. She’s focused on her coaching career and has no interest in playing emotional defense against Chase… again.
Chase is charming, slightly clueless, and somehow both cocky and genuinely sweet. He’s carrying a little career baggage, a lot of pride, and more emotional intelligence than you'd expect — when it counts. His arc is all about showing up, growing up, and finally saying what needed to be said years ago.
Their dynamic? Sizzling with unresolved tension, sarcastic quips, stolen glances, and that delicious “we shouldn’t… but we want to” energy. Slow-burn with a history. My favorite kind.
Sass, Spice, and everything nice
There’s no shortage of humor here — Zoe’s internal commentary alone had me grinning. She’s blunt, sharp, and painfully honest in her thoughts, especially when Chase pushes her buttons (which he does. Often. On purpose).
The side characters are fun, vibrant, and bring extra life to the story without stealing focus. And the worldbuilding around the ice — both Zoe’s figure skating world and Chase’s hockey universe — is well done without being overly technical.
And let’s be honest: the spice hits exactly when and how it should. It’s not over the top — it’s earned, intimate, and layered with real emotion. Just how I like it.
4 stars — because even when the rinks are quiet, my love for hockey romance is alive and well.
Thrown for a Loop gives you:
An ice queen coach with a sharp tongue and zero tolerance for BS
A charming, slightly regretful hockey player trying to earn his second shot
Banter that stings, kisses that melt, and tension that refuses to die
And the perfect off-season escape with heart, heat, and humor
Hockey may be out of season — but this romance? Absolute playoff material.
Thank you Netgalley, Forever Grand Central Publishing and Sarina Bowen for my eArc, I was under no obligation to review, all opinions are my own.
November 5, 2025
Thrown for a Loop by Sarina Bowen
New York Legends series #1. Contemporary sports romance. Second chance troupe.
Zoe Carson and Chase Merritt met at a skating camp ten years ago. She was on a strict training regime while he was the bad boy from the wrong side of town. The two trained together and played together and fell in love. As with most young relationships, something happens and they go their separate ways.
Zoe is now using her skating experience as a coach for hockey players. She’s hired by the New York Legends team and knows she going to have to clear the air with MVP Chase. He’s avoiding her calls but with her job on the line, she can’t let him ignore her. A truce, a fix, and conversation has the two getting back together. At the same time she’s getting threats from someone that doesn’t want her working with the hockey team. Will her job be over before the end of the season? And what does that mean to their new relationship?
🎧 I was able to alternate between an ecopy and an audiobook version of this story. The alternating POV’s are narrated by Brooke Bloomingdale and Ryan Hudson, both of whom, do a marvelous job of bringing the characters to life. Each is able to do multiple voices as needed as well as bring the angst, the excitement and other emotions to the listener. The story is told in a today and before time frame which is clearly announced with each change. I enjoyed the banter and humor of the takeaways from the referenced movie.
I listened at 1.5 and slightly higher to read along with the book, and to listen at a local conversation speed.
An exciting contrast and merging of a skill. And how smart to use the knowledge of experience combined with physics of the blade and body to crossover for advantages from one sport to another. Fascinating details too on the actual improvements. I learned a few things on top of reading an entertaining romance.
Lively, sweet and sexy, and successful career adventures. Add in a millionaire sports figure and it’s candy.
4.5
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and Hachette Audio.
New York Legends series #1. Contemporary sports romance. Second chance troupe.
Zoe Carson and Chase Merritt met at a skating camp ten years ago. She was on a strict training regime while he was the bad boy from the wrong side of town. The two trained together and played together and fell in love. As with most young relationships, something happens and they go their separate ways.
Zoe is now using her skating experience as a coach for hockey players. She’s hired by the New York Legends team and knows she going to have to clear the air with MVP Chase. He’s avoiding her calls but with her job on the line, she can’t let him ignore her. A truce, a fix, and conversation has the two getting back together. At the same time she’s getting threats from someone that doesn’t want her working with the hockey team. Will her job be over before the end of the season? And what does that mean to their new relationship?
🎧 I was able to alternate between an ecopy and an audiobook version of this story. The alternating POV’s are narrated by Brooke Bloomingdale and Ryan Hudson, both of whom, do a marvelous job of bringing the characters to life. Each is able to do multiple voices as needed as well as bring the angst, the excitement and other emotions to the listener. The story is told in a today and before time frame which is clearly announced with each change. I enjoyed the banter and humor of the takeaways from the referenced movie.
I listened at 1.5 and slightly higher to read along with the book, and to listen at a local conversation speed.
An exciting contrast and merging of a skill. And how smart to use the knowledge of experience combined with physics of the blade and body to crossover for advantages from one sport to another. Fascinating details too on the actual improvements. I learned a few things on top of reading an entertaining romance.
Lively, sweet and sexy, and successful career adventures. Add in a millionaire sports figure and it’s candy.
4.5
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and Hachette Audio.
November 4, 2025
I love that Zoe, as a former figure skater, was hired to teach the hockey players how to adjust how they skate to make them better players. It’s a unique twist to the hockey trope and made for a fun read.
Chase was awesome. Once he and Zoe got over their past, I knew I’d love him for her. I’m not always a fan of going back in time in a book, but I’ll admit I enjoyed reading how these two first fell in love.
Overall, a fun read with great main characters and fun side-characters.
Chase was awesome. Once he and Zoe got over their past, I knew I’d love him for her. I’m not always a fan of going back in time in a book, but I’ll admit I enjoyed reading how these two first fell in love.
Overall, a fun read with great main characters and fun side-characters.
October 10, 2025
this unfortunately was a massive loss for me. i really wanted to love this one as second chance is one of my favorite tropes lately & sarina bowen is an auto buy/read author of mine but this book was incredibly surface level and boring if im being completely honest.
i didnt hate everything about it and there were parts i found myself enjoying which is why im leaning towards two stars right now despite my overall feelings of the book. there were times where i really loved our main characters and other times where i felt they were so annoying. same could be said about most of the other characters aside from tremaine and darcy…
the writing of this book felt very chaotic and all over the place, i think the dual timeline really did this book a disservice. while it was nice to get to see some of their past relationship and how they fell for one another i think it definitely could have been done in a few chapters in the beginning and then switch over to current timeline for the rest of the book, it would have possibly made it feel less jarring and weird???
i didnt hate everything about it and there were parts i found myself enjoying which is why im leaning towards two stars right now despite my overall feelings of the book. there were times where i really loved our main characters and other times where i felt they were so annoying. same could be said about most of the other characters aside from tremaine and darcy…
the writing of this book felt very chaotic and all over the place, i think the dual timeline really did this book a disservice. while it was nice to get to see some of their past relationship and how they fell for one another i think it definitely could have been done in a few chapters in the beginning and then switch over to current timeline for the rest of the book, it would have possibly made it feel less jarring and weird???
August 10, 2025
4⭐️
A new hockey series from Sarina Bowen? I jumped on this SO fast. I loved her Brooklyn/Brooklyn Bruisers series and I'm really hoping we get to see some of the Legend's guys get their turn in the spotlight!
Zoe Carson, former Olympic ice dancer, is starting her new job as a skating coach for the New York Legends hockey team. The only problem? Her ex Chase Merritt, who she hasn't seen or spoken to in ten years, plays for said team. The two of them worked at a figure skating camp when they were teenagers, and fell fast and hard for each other. We get a series of flashback chapters of their time at the camp, interspersed with the current timeline.
I don't think the flashback chapters worked that well? We had short chapters in the beginning with frequent flashbacks- so it felt like every time the current timeline was actually getting somewhere plot-wise, you were thrown back to the camp. It was just kind of jarring. I think it also delayed getting to know Zoe and Chase in the now- they barely even spend time together as adults in the first half of the book.
When I first read the synopsis I won't lie, I thought the plot sounded too cheesy for me. But it actually worked and made sense in this world. Chase has had some bad PR lately and when an old video of him and Zoe ice skating at camp resurfaces and goes viral, the Legends team jumps on the opportunity. They ask Zoe and Chase to recreate the routine at an upcoming charity event, and Zoe agrees because she's desperate to make a good impression and get a full-time job. I thought it added some fun to the hockey-filled world, and can't wait to see what SB comes up with for Darcy and Tremaine!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishing team for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A new hockey series from Sarina Bowen? I jumped on this SO fast. I loved her Brooklyn/Brooklyn Bruisers series and I'm really hoping we get to see some of the Legend's guys get their turn in the spotlight!
Zoe Carson, former Olympic ice dancer, is starting her new job as a skating coach for the New York Legends hockey team. The only problem? Her ex Chase Merritt, who she hasn't seen or spoken to in ten years, plays for said team. The two of them worked at a figure skating camp when they were teenagers, and fell fast and hard for each other. We get a series of flashback chapters of their time at the camp, interspersed with the current timeline.
I don't think the flashback chapters worked that well? We had short chapters in the beginning with frequent flashbacks- so it felt like every time the current timeline was actually getting somewhere plot-wise, you were thrown back to the camp. It was just kind of jarring. I think it also delayed getting to know Zoe and Chase in the now- they barely even spend time together as adults in the first half of the book.
When I first read the synopsis I won't lie, I thought the plot sounded too cheesy for me. But it actually worked and made sense in this world. Chase has had some bad PR lately and when an old video of him and Zoe ice skating at camp resurfaces and goes viral, the Legends team jumps on the opportunity. They ask Zoe and Chase to recreate the routine at an upcoming charity event, and Zoe agrees because she's desperate to make a good impression and get a full-time job. I thought it added some fun to the hockey-filled world, and can't wait to see what SB comes up with for Darcy and Tremaine!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishing team for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 14, 2025
4.5. This was such a cute read! In this book, Zoe and Chase reunite 10 years after their teenage summer fling. Once promising skaters (Zoe as a figure skater, Chase as a hockey player), they are now in new phases of their life -- Chase is a star hockey player on an NHL team while Zoe has retired after going to the Olympics and is now a skating coach for Chase's team. They didn't end their summer of love on a good note, so there's immediate tension when they meet again. The story is told through alternating POV and alternates between present day and flashbacks, adding a nice variety to the read and tension to the plot as you slowly find out what happened in their past.
I will be the first to admit that second chance romance is perhaps my least favorite trope, and author Bowen did an incredible job in making the trope feel fresh and--most importantly for me--not frustrating. Yes, the breakup was based on a miscommunication at the time, but there are nuances to the miscommunication and as adults, the miscommunication is not a belabored plot point (if you can't tell, this is what most bothers me about second chance romances). Instead, I found their teenage romance to be adorably precious and their adult selves to be interesting, well-rounded, and mature as they approached each other again.
I do think there were a few heavier topics that the book introduced that could have been addressed more completely and instead felt a little rushed in the wrap-up (mainly, the issues surrounding Zoe's mom and Chase's dad).
Still, I was glued to this book until I got to the end. I really enjoyed this and I'm already chomping at the bit for the second book in the series (no spoilers, but I can't wait for those characters to get together!)
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the advanced digital copy!
I will be the first to admit that second chance romance is perhaps my least favorite trope, and author Bowen did an incredible job in making the trope feel fresh and--most importantly for me--not frustrating. Yes, the breakup was based on a miscommunication at the time, but there are nuances to the miscommunication and as adults, the miscommunication is not a belabored plot point (if you can't tell, this is what most bothers me about second chance romances). Instead, I found their teenage romance to be adorably precious and their adult selves to be interesting, well-rounded, and mature as they approached each other again.
I do think there were a few heavier topics that the book introduced that could have been addressed more completely and instead felt a little rushed in the wrap-up (mainly, the issues surrounding Zoe's mom and Chase's dad).
Still, I was glued to this book until I got to the end. I really enjoyed this and I'm already chomping at the bit for the second book in the series (no spoilers, but I can't wait for those characters to get together!)
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the advanced digital copy!
October 9, 2025
#Review: *Thrown For A Loop* - Sarina Bowen [16+]
4.7/5✨
2/5🌶️
I got the chance to read this book after I found it in one of Maren Moore's e-mails. Of course I had to read it, because it's a sports romance story😍, which are one of my favorites!
Our main characters had a pretty complicated history. Chase Merritt and Zoe Carson had met for the first time when they were teenagers. They were both present at a figure skating camp, where they had the chance to get to know each other and slowly to start growing some strong feelings for one another. But things weren't that easy at that time and their beautiful relationship suffered a big blow, which was enough to break everything up for them.
Ten years later and Zoe was trying to start over after her divorce with her ex husband. So, she applied for a job at the hockey team where Chase was now playing for. Their past was still hunting them and it was obvious that Chase wasn't that happy to have Zoe in his proximity everyday. Can they rekindle things after so much time? Can they get pass through the hurt they lived?
It was so captivating to see how everything evolved with Zoe and Chase, in both times they were in each other's company, present and past. Their love was so pure and innocent but people around them were against their relationship, so it was really hard to fight for it at that young age, especially when other things might threaten their future. In the present days, we had a clear loathing there, which created lots of tension between Chase and Zoe, which was something I adored in this story. I loved how determined Zoe was in fighting for her love and also for her new job, which wasn't at all an easy task. Also, I always love these hockey romance stories because of the other team members, which are often so much fun and easy to love. This one had that and I really liked those scenes!
A super sweet, second chance romance, which kept me entranced and made me fall in love with their love story. Even though they didn't have the support they wanted from their families, they went against everything to make sure what they had stood a chance. Perfect for readers who like a story with less spice in it🤭.
✨Tropes
#SecondChance
#EnemiesToLovers
#FirstLove
#SportsRomance
#DualTime
#ForcedProximity
4.7/5✨
2/5🌶️
I got the chance to read this book after I found it in one of Maren Moore's e-mails. Of course I had to read it, because it's a sports romance story😍, which are one of my favorites!
Our main characters had a pretty complicated history. Chase Merritt and Zoe Carson had met for the first time when they were teenagers. They were both present at a figure skating camp, where they had the chance to get to know each other and slowly to start growing some strong feelings for one another. But things weren't that easy at that time and their beautiful relationship suffered a big blow, which was enough to break everything up for them.
Ten years later and Zoe was trying to start over after her divorce with her ex husband. So, she applied for a job at the hockey team where Chase was now playing for. Their past was still hunting them and it was obvious that Chase wasn't that happy to have Zoe in his proximity everyday. Can they rekindle things after so much time? Can they get pass through the hurt they lived?
It was so captivating to see how everything evolved with Zoe and Chase, in both times they were in each other's company, present and past. Their love was so pure and innocent but people around them were against their relationship, so it was really hard to fight for it at that young age, especially when other things might threaten their future. In the present days, we had a clear loathing there, which created lots of tension between Chase and Zoe, which was something I adored in this story. I loved how determined Zoe was in fighting for her love and also for her new job, which wasn't at all an easy task. Also, I always love these hockey romance stories because of the other team members, which are often so much fun and easy to love. This one had that and I really liked those scenes!
A super sweet, second chance romance, which kept me entranced and made me fall in love with their love story. Even though they didn't have the support they wanted from their families, they went against everything to make sure what they had stood a chance. Perfect for readers who like a story with less spice in it🤭.
✨Tropes
#SecondChance
#EnemiesToLovers
#FirstLove
#SportsRomance
#DualTime
#ForcedProximity
Read
July 26, 2025unfortunately i have to stop reading this book at 37%..
when i first started reading again sarina bowen was a go to author for me. her hockey romances were so good, when i saw this one announced i needed to read it. sadly there were just so many cringey moments in the dialogue that i was snuggling to push through the story. the book is told in two timelines and the second timeline has out main male character unironically using the word "dudes" ... no thanks
I gave myself two days and i felt no want to pick this book up and finish it. if it comes out and people looooooove the second half maybe i'll pick it up but this wasn't for me. its sad though because rookie move, another second chance hockey romance by this author, is so, so good..
when i first started reading again sarina bowen was a go to author for me. her hockey romances were so good, when i saw this one announced i needed to read it. sadly there were just so many cringey moments in the dialogue that i was snuggling to push through the story. the book is told in two timelines and the second timeline has out main male character unironically using the word "dudes" ... no thanks
I gave myself two days and i felt no want to pick this book up and finish it. if it comes out and people looooooove the second half maybe i'll pick it up but this wasn't for me. its sad though because rookie move, another second chance hockey romance by this author, is so, so good..
November 12, 2025
This year, I’ve been exploring both new and established writers—some I’ve had on my radar for years but never actually read. Sarina Bowen was one of them. Her name’s been floating in my mind ever since her collaborations with Elle Kennedy, but I never picked up her books (solo or otherwise) because, frankly, I didn’t want to be disappointed. Hockey romances are my comfort trope, and Elle Kennedy, in my opinion, sets the gold standard for them. Now that I’ve finally read one of Sarina’s hockey books, I feel like she’s the Claire Kingsley to Elle Kennedy’s Lucy Score—similar vibe, but not quite the same punch.
The premise of Thrown for a Loop was intriguing and had the potential to be great. Chase Merritt, a star hockey player with a rough past, once fell in love with Zoe Carson, an ambitious figure skater, when they met at camp ten years ago. But one fateful mistake tore them apart. Fast forward to the present: Chase is the MVP of a professional hockey team, while Zoe is the new skating coach hired to fix his stride and his image. When an old video of them skating together resurfaces, management seizes the chance for a PR redemption story and forces them to perform again—on ice, to a love song, with ten years of heartbreak and unresolved tension between them.
The setup promised all the right things—nostalgia, tension, forced proximity, and the magic of a shared sport. And to be fair, it was a fun, cute little hockey book with a solid storyline and clean writing. Zoe was a strong, independent female lead whose professional competence stood out, and Chase had the perfect mix of swagger and vulnerability. The figure skating angle added a refreshing twist to the usual hockey romance setup.
But the structure and pacing is where it lost me. The story alternates between past and present, with the present-day scenes told from Zoe’s point-of-view and the flashbacks from a strange third-person-but-almost-first-person perspective focused on Chase. It was a unique stylistic choice, but one that didn’t quite land. Instead of feeling immersive, it gave me whiplash. The constant time jumps every other chapter made it hard to connect with either timeline fully. Halfway through the book, the flashbacks suddenly stopped altogether, disrupting the rhythm even more. I found myself skimming through most of the past scenes because I just didn’t care enough anymore about what tore them apart.
The emotional depth also felt underdeveloped. There were glimpses of trauma and regret—both Zoe and Chase have their share of scars—but the book barely scratched the surface. I kept waiting for that big emotional payoff, the kind of moment that makes second-chance romances worth it, but it never really came. The “big reveal” about their past was anticlimactic, and the resolution lacked impact.
Now, onto the romance itself—cute but not explosive. The chemistry was okay, not something that set my Kindle on fire. The banter was sweet, the sexual tension mild, and the spice level pretty low. I live for good spice in romance, and this one left me wanting more. The connection between Zoe and Chase felt believable, but not electric enough to make me swoon or reread scenes.
What did work, though, were the sports elements. The hockey and skating scenes were well-written and detailed, especially the technical parts of skating that Zoe teaches Chase and his teammates. I appreciated how those scenes showcased her expertise and passion. The supporting characters—Darcy, Zoe’s best friend, and Eric, Chase’s teammate—were also highlights. Their personalities popped off the page, and their dynamic hints at something much more exciting in the next book. Honestly, by the end, I was more eager for their story than I was satisfied with Zoe and Chase’s.
Another small gripe was Chase’s inconsistent personality. He starts off as the grumpy, brooding athlete with deep-seated resentment, but halfway through, he flips into a sunshine-y, almost golden-retriever type. It felt more like a character inconsistency than growth and I think it was the weird third person’s point-of-view that ruined it all. I couldn’t connect with him at all.
In the end, this book was a decent, easy read—a good palate cleanser if you want something light and sportsy. It’s got charm, humor, and a nostalgic second-chance setup, but it doesn’t dig deep enough to leave a lasting impression. The uneven pacing and structural choices definitely took away from what could’ve been a great emotional arc.
Still, I’m glad I finally read Sarina Bowen. Even though this one didn’t hit the mark for me, I can see why readers love her style—it’s comforting, low-angst, and quietly emotional. And I’m definitely looking forward to the next installment featuring Eric and Darcy. If Bowen delivers on that one, I might just become a loyal reader after all.
The premise of Thrown for a Loop was intriguing and had the potential to be great. Chase Merritt, a star hockey player with a rough past, once fell in love with Zoe Carson, an ambitious figure skater, when they met at camp ten years ago. But one fateful mistake tore them apart. Fast forward to the present: Chase is the MVP of a professional hockey team, while Zoe is the new skating coach hired to fix his stride and his image. When an old video of them skating together resurfaces, management seizes the chance for a PR redemption story and forces them to perform again—on ice, to a love song, with ten years of heartbreak and unresolved tension between them.
The setup promised all the right things—nostalgia, tension, forced proximity, and the magic of a shared sport. And to be fair, it was a fun, cute little hockey book with a solid storyline and clean writing. Zoe was a strong, independent female lead whose professional competence stood out, and Chase had the perfect mix of swagger and vulnerability. The figure skating angle added a refreshing twist to the usual hockey romance setup.
But the structure and pacing is where it lost me. The story alternates between past and present, with the present-day scenes told from Zoe’s point-of-view and the flashbacks from a strange third-person-but-almost-first-person perspective focused on Chase. It was a unique stylistic choice, but one that didn’t quite land. Instead of feeling immersive, it gave me whiplash. The constant time jumps every other chapter made it hard to connect with either timeline fully. Halfway through the book, the flashbacks suddenly stopped altogether, disrupting the rhythm even more. I found myself skimming through most of the past scenes because I just didn’t care enough anymore about what tore them apart.
The emotional depth also felt underdeveloped. There were glimpses of trauma and regret—both Zoe and Chase have their share of scars—but the book barely scratched the surface. I kept waiting for that big emotional payoff, the kind of moment that makes second-chance romances worth it, but it never really came. The “big reveal” about their past was anticlimactic, and the resolution lacked impact.
Now, onto the romance itself—cute but not explosive. The chemistry was okay, not something that set my Kindle on fire. The banter was sweet, the sexual tension mild, and the spice level pretty low. I live for good spice in romance, and this one left me wanting more. The connection between Zoe and Chase felt believable, but not electric enough to make me swoon or reread scenes.
What did work, though, were the sports elements. The hockey and skating scenes were well-written and detailed, especially the technical parts of skating that Zoe teaches Chase and his teammates. I appreciated how those scenes showcased her expertise and passion. The supporting characters—Darcy, Zoe’s best friend, and Eric, Chase’s teammate—were also highlights. Their personalities popped off the page, and their dynamic hints at something much more exciting in the next book. Honestly, by the end, I was more eager for their story than I was satisfied with Zoe and Chase’s.
Another small gripe was Chase’s inconsistent personality. He starts off as the grumpy, brooding athlete with deep-seated resentment, but halfway through, he flips into a sunshine-y, almost golden-retriever type. It felt more like a character inconsistency than growth and I think it was the weird third person’s point-of-view that ruined it all. I couldn’t connect with him at all.
In the end, this book was a decent, easy read—a good palate cleanser if you want something light and sportsy. It’s got charm, humor, and a nostalgic second-chance setup, but it doesn’t dig deep enough to leave a lasting impression. The uneven pacing and structural choices definitely took away from what could’ve been a great emotional arc.
Still, I’m glad I finally read Sarina Bowen. Even though this one didn’t hit the mark for me, I can see why readers love her style—it’s comforting, low-angst, and quietly emotional. And I’m definitely looking forward to the next installment featuring Eric and Darcy. If Bowen delivers on that one, I might just become a loyal reader after all.
November 4, 2025
This is a pretty solid hockey romance. I liked Chase and Zoe and felt they worked well together. I especially loved Zoe's strong character and her profession. I didn't love all of the flashbacks and found some of them to be boring and repetitive but I understood the reasoning for them and they did give a bit of understanding/depth to the story. I'm not always a fan of second chance romance but I think this one was done well.
Thank you NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) | Forever for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date: 11/4/25
Thank you NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) | Forever for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date: 11/4/25
November 3, 2025
4.25 Stars ⭐️
What a pleasant surprise! I already knew that Sarina Bowen wrote fantastic hockey romances because I absolutely LOVED the Brooklyn Bruisers series. I was trying to figure out if this new series was set in the same world (I think it is) because it had been a while since I was back in that world.
This is the first book introducing the New York Legends NHL Team. We got to meet MMC Chase Merritt and FMC Zoe Carson. These two met each other 10 years ago when they were in college working at a summer figure skating camp. Chase was a hockey player making extra money while Zoe was a premier figure skater working the camp under her coach, who happened to be her mother.
Things happened and their relationship basically exploded. We don't immediately know exactly what happened as the details are parsed out little by little. The book was told in two timelines - the present and the summer 10 years ago.
The story began with Zoe starting a new temporary job as a technical coach for the Legends, where Chase happens to be a star NHL player. Unfortunately, he is in a bit of a slump and is NOT happy to find out she is now working for the team.
Zoe comes across as a very likeable MC and I found myself immediately rooting for her. We follow along as she finds her footing in her new position. It became clear that Chase harbored some pretty intense anger towards her, and it was just as clear that she did not understand why. Discovering exactly WHAT happened 10 years ago and then watching them deal with figuring out what that meant for their relationship NOW kept me completely enthralled. I wasn't sure about Chase when things started, but after a little bit of a rocky start, I found myself liking him just as much.
This was such a fun listen. I enjoyed the combination of a hockey player and a figure skater. It brought up vibes reminding me of the movie The Cutting Edge - and I LOVED that movie.
One of the other bright spots in this story centered around the actual team and their players. It is always fun to see the comradery and the relationships between the players. I am looking forward to the next book in this series - it looks like Darcy (Zoe's best friend and the Executive Assistant for the GM) and Tremaine are up next.
The audio for this book was performed by a couple of "new to me" actors - Brooke Bloomingdale and Ryan Hudson. They did a good job of bringing this story to life.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hachette Audio | Forever for the opportunity to listen to and review this Audio ARC. This book will be out for publication on November 4, 2025.
What a pleasant surprise! I already knew that Sarina Bowen wrote fantastic hockey romances because I absolutely LOVED the Brooklyn Bruisers series. I was trying to figure out if this new series was set in the same world (I think it is) because it had been a while since I was back in that world.
This is the first book introducing the New York Legends NHL Team. We got to meet MMC Chase Merritt and FMC Zoe Carson. These two met each other 10 years ago when they were in college working at a summer figure skating camp. Chase was a hockey player making extra money while Zoe was a premier figure skater working the camp under her coach, who happened to be her mother.
Things happened and their relationship basically exploded. We don't immediately know exactly what happened as the details are parsed out little by little. The book was told in two timelines - the present and the summer 10 years ago.
The story began with Zoe starting a new temporary job as a technical coach for the Legends, where Chase happens to be a star NHL player. Unfortunately, he is in a bit of a slump and is NOT happy to find out she is now working for the team.
Zoe comes across as a very likeable MC and I found myself immediately rooting for her. We follow along as she finds her footing in her new position. It became clear that Chase harbored some pretty intense anger towards her, and it was just as clear that she did not understand why. Discovering exactly WHAT happened 10 years ago and then watching them deal with figuring out what that meant for their relationship NOW kept me completely enthralled. I wasn't sure about Chase when things started, but after a little bit of a rocky start, I found myself liking him just as much.
This was such a fun listen. I enjoyed the combination of a hockey player and a figure skater. It brought up vibes reminding me of the movie The Cutting Edge - and I LOVED that movie.
One of the other bright spots in this story centered around the actual team and their players. It is always fun to see the comradery and the relationships between the players. I am looking forward to the next book in this series - it looks like Darcy (Zoe's best friend and the Executive Assistant for the GM) and Tremaine are up next.
The audio for this book was performed by a couple of "new to me" actors - Brooke Bloomingdale and Ryan Hudson. They did a good job of bringing this story to life.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hachette Audio | Forever for the opportunity to listen to and review this Audio ARC. This book will be out for publication on November 4, 2025.
October 29, 2025
4 stars
A second-chance hockey romance between a figure skater and NHL player, this book brought Cutting Edge vibes (“toe-pick!”), and it’s such a gorgeous read!
Figure skater, Zoe, and college hockey player, Chase, met as teenagers at a skating camp. They fell hard for each other, but their summer ended with both of their hearts broken. Almost ten years later, Zoe is hired as the skating coach for the New York Legends, which just happens to be Chase’s team. She’s coming out of a toxic relationship and eager to make her mark, he’s a star but is currently in a slump and getting negative press for his bad moods.
It's not the friendliest of reunions for them, with Chase refusing to even engage with Zoe. And then an old video of them skating together at camp goes viral, and the two of them are paired up to skate together again for the team’s upcoming showcase. It’s a situation full of tension and longing (on Zoe’s part at least), and when Chase’s snark finally gives way to actual conversation, they start to get to know each other as adults, and they begin to unravel all that happened between them all those years ago.
The story shifts between the present and the past, with dual perspective in the past (though mostly Chase), and present day is Zoe’s POV, which I love, because there’s so much mystery around Chase in the present, and what he is thinking and feeling. Not knowing where his head is at brings a nice intensity of their encounters as we watch their chemistry-filled interactions.
The romance is a slow burn with a lot of build-up, and my only wish is that we could have seen more of their reconciliation. When they finally get there, it happens really fast, and while we do get to see them happy together, I felt like I needed a bit more. But I really enjoyed this story; Zoe and Chase are great characters, and there’s some fantastic character development as they find their way back to each other.
Along the way, we get to meet a number of the Legends players, and I am so happy this is the beginning of a new series, because this is a fantastic bunch of guys, and I can't wait to read more about them!
This is such an enjoyable read, and I loved this one – 4 stars.
I listened to this as an audiobook, narrated by Brooke Bloomingdale and Ryan Hudson, and it’s a great one to listen to.
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
A second-chance hockey romance between a figure skater and NHL player, this book brought Cutting Edge vibes (“toe-pick!”), and it’s such a gorgeous read!
Figure skater, Zoe, and college hockey player, Chase, met as teenagers at a skating camp. They fell hard for each other, but their summer ended with both of their hearts broken. Almost ten years later, Zoe is hired as the skating coach for the New York Legends, which just happens to be Chase’s team. She’s coming out of a toxic relationship and eager to make her mark, he’s a star but is currently in a slump and getting negative press for his bad moods.
It's not the friendliest of reunions for them, with Chase refusing to even engage with Zoe. And then an old video of them skating together at camp goes viral, and the two of them are paired up to skate together again for the team’s upcoming showcase. It’s a situation full of tension and longing (on Zoe’s part at least), and when Chase’s snark finally gives way to actual conversation, they start to get to know each other as adults, and they begin to unravel all that happened between them all those years ago.
The story shifts between the present and the past, with dual perspective in the past (though mostly Chase), and present day is Zoe’s POV, which I love, because there’s so much mystery around Chase in the present, and what he is thinking and feeling. Not knowing where his head is at brings a nice intensity of their encounters as we watch their chemistry-filled interactions.
The romance is a slow burn with a lot of build-up, and my only wish is that we could have seen more of their reconciliation. When they finally get there, it happens really fast, and while we do get to see them happy together, I felt like I needed a bit more. But I really enjoyed this story; Zoe and Chase are great characters, and there’s some fantastic character development as they find their way back to each other.
Along the way, we get to meet a number of the Legends players, and I am so happy this is the beginning of a new series, because this is a fantastic bunch of guys, and I can't wait to read more about them!
This is such an enjoyable read, and I loved this one – 4 stars.
I listened to this as an audiobook, narrated by Brooke Bloomingdale and Ryan Hudson, and it’s a great one to listen to.
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
October 6, 2025
Overall, I'd give this book 3.5 stars. The story between Zoe and Chase was cute, I love a good second chance story. Overall, I liked Zoe and Chase as the main characters, the book scratches at the surface of their childhood trauma, but I wanted more depth from the story. The flashbacks were interesting, I'm not sure why it was written in 3rd POV. I was also anticipating this big thing to blow up between them, and it was a bit anti-climactic for me. This book was a good palette cleanser for me and a very easy read.
*Second chance romance
*Coach/Hockey player
*1st POV - Zoe with flashbacks in 3rd POV
Format: audiobook (Narrated by Brooke Bloomingdale and Ryan Hudson)
Thank you NetGalley, Sarina Bowen, and Hachette Audio for the ALC.
*Second chance romance
*Coach/Hockey player
*1st POV - Zoe with flashbacks in 3rd POV
Format: audiobook (Narrated by Brooke Bloomingdale and Ryan Hudson)
Thank you NetGalley, Sarina Bowen, and Hachette Audio for the ALC.
October 17, 2025
Thrown for a loop by Sarina Bowen
ARC from Hackett Audio
Release date: Nov 4th 2025
-gotta love a sports romance/ hockey romance
-Zoe is determined, confident, strong and hilarious love her
-Chase is struggling but I feel like Zoe is about too electrify his life and i’m here for it , also blue eyes are my weakness 😫
-love the two timelines of them first meeting and the second chance time line
-them skating together sounds magical on ice they have so much chemistry and sexual tension
-the spice and forest time flashback was beautiful ✨
-this romance was adorable I loved Chase and Zoey together
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
ARC from Hackett Audio
Release date: Nov 4th 2025
-gotta love a sports romance/ hockey romance
-Zoe is determined, confident, strong and hilarious love her
-Chase is struggling but I feel like Zoe is about too electrify his life and i’m here for it , also blue eyes are my weakness 😫
-love the two timelines of them first meeting and the second chance time line
-them skating together sounds magical on ice they have so much chemistry and sexual tension
-the spice and forest time flashback was beautiful ✨
-this romance was adorable I loved Chase and Zoey together
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
November 9, 2025
This book was SO STINKING CUTE!!!!!!
Thrown for a loop has truly reignited my love of hockey romances. Chase, was so darling as a MMC & you can’f help but fall in love him! Zoe, so fun & surefooted- i just loved her.
This is so much more than a hockey romance & it focuses on women in sports, the technicalities of skating, and young love. It was certainly a quick & fun read. I ate this up & UGH y’all need to check this out for real!!!
Thank you to Forever & Grand Central Pub for the gifted finished copy💗
Thrown for a loop has truly reignited my love of hockey romances. Chase, was so darling as a MMC & you can’f help but fall in love him! Zoe, so fun & surefooted- i just loved her.
This is so much more than a hockey romance & it focuses on women in sports, the technicalities of skating, and young love. It was certainly a quick & fun read. I ate this up & UGH y’all need to check this out for real!!!
Thank you to Forever & Grand Central Pub for the gifted finished copy💗
November 12, 2025
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I loved this one! I immersive read this and I feel like it truly added to the reading experience.
A badass female coach and a sexy hockey player? Absolute perfection. Add in an ex-friends-to-lovers setup, and it’s game over for me. The tension, angst, and redemption arc were all spot-on. The plot felt really well-developed, and I loved the dual timeline—her in the present, him in the past—it made their story even more emotional and layered.
If you’re a fan of Peyton Corinne or Becka Mack, this one’s right up your alley!
A badass female coach and a sexy hockey player? Absolute perfection. Add in an ex-friends-to-lovers setup, and it’s game over for me. The tension, angst, and redemption arc were all spot-on. The plot felt really well-developed, and I loved the dual timeline—her in the present, him in the past—it made their story even more emotional and layered.
If you’re a fan of Peyton Corinne or Becka Mack, this one’s right up your alley!
October 5, 2025
3.75/5 ⭐️
1/5 🌶️
Super cute, low-angst second chance romance! Loved the banter and the emotional growth between the characters. It’s cozy, funny, and just the right mix of heart and humor. Not super spicy, but full of feels. Perfect if you want something sweet and satisfying.
The narrators were good, but I hate third person narration. It took me out of the story every time.
Thanks to the author, her publisher, and NetGalley for the early audiobook.
1/5 🌶️
Super cute, low-angst second chance romance! Loved the banter and the emotional growth between the characters. It’s cozy, funny, and just the right mix of heart and humor. Not super spicy, but full of feels. Perfect if you want something sweet and satisfying.
The narrators were good, but I hate third person narration. It took me out of the story every time.
Thanks to the author, her publisher, and NetGalley for the early audiobook.
October 27, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) | Forever for the eARC.
This was my first Sarina Bowen book and it did not disappoint.
I am a sucker for a second chance romance and this was really well done. Zoe and Chase meet during a summer skating camp where they are both counselors. Chase gets to know Zoe and gets her to open up to a world outside of the intense world of figure skating.
Dual timelines set the stage for what went down with Zoe and Chase 10 years ago and what happens when they reconnect as adults when Zoe takes a job working for Chase's hockey team.
This was very sweet and touching with a bit of mystery thrown in. I liked the growth displayed by both MCs and them getting together when they were both ready for love.
I am very interested to read the rest of the series!
This was my first Sarina Bowen book and it did not disappoint.
I am a sucker for a second chance romance and this was really well done. Zoe and Chase meet during a summer skating camp where they are both counselors. Chase gets to know Zoe and gets her to open up to a world outside of the intense world of figure skating.
Dual timelines set the stage for what went down with Zoe and Chase 10 years ago and what happens when they reconnect as adults when Zoe takes a job working for Chase's hockey team.
This was very sweet and touching with a bit of mystery thrown in. I liked the growth displayed by both MCs and them getting together when they were both ready for love.
I am very interested to read the rest of the series!
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