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Playing #3
Playing with Fire
They call me the enforcer. The troublemaker. As the loose puck in the Stag dynasty, I've earned my reputation.
I'm the one who starts fights on the ice and finishes them in bars. The Pittsburgh Fury pays me to be reckless, and I've never been afraid of the penalty box.
Until her.
One anonymous night at my cousin's ski house with the most intriguing woman I've ever met, and I can't get her out of my head. Sloane doesn't know who I am—doesn't care about my family name or my reputation in the NHL. For once, someone sees past the enforcer to the man beneath.
Then she discovers I play alongside her ex-husband.
Now she wants nothing to do with me. But I can't walk away, especially after I learn she's pregnant. With my twins.
Everyone thinks I'm just a hothead with a talent for breaking things. They're not wrong. But for Sloane and our family, I'll become the man she deserves—even if it means risking everything I've built on the ice.
My brothers always said my impulsive nature would burn me someday.
They never said the fire would guide me home.
Playing with Fire is a steamy hockey romance featuring an enforcer with a heart of gold, his teammate's guarded ex-wife, an accidental pregnancy, and a love that changes everything.
I'm the one who starts fights on the ice and finishes them in bars. The Pittsburgh Fury pays me to be reckless, and I've never been afraid of the penalty box.
Until her.
One anonymous night at my cousin's ski house with the most intriguing woman I've ever met, and I can't get her out of my head. Sloane doesn't know who I am—doesn't care about my family name or my reputation in the NHL. For once, someone sees past the enforcer to the man beneath.
Then she discovers I play alongside her ex-husband.
Now she wants nothing to do with me. But I can't walk away, especially after I learn she's pregnant. With my twins.
Everyone thinks I'm just a hothead with a talent for breaking things. They're not wrong. But for Sloane and our family, I'll become the man she deserves—even if it means risking everything I've built on the ice.
My brothers always said my impulsive nature would burn me someday.
They never said the fire would guide me home.
Playing with Fire is a steamy hockey romance featuring an enforcer with a heart of gold, his teammate's guarded ex-wife, an accidental pregnancy, and a love that changes everything.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 22, 2026
22 people are currently reading
199 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
January 25, 2026
All three stars for Tucker. The more the story went on the more I disliked Sloan. She was hypocritical and judgmental and selfish. Yes she had issues she needed to resolve but she didn’t even try. Tucker on the other hand was making himself smaller for her which was sad.
January 3, 2026
After her now ex-husband made a unilateral reproductive decision for them, Sloane has struggled to regain her autonomy as well as self-determination with regard to her education. At a pool party with her bestie, she meets a delicious blonde Viking of a hockey player, Tucker Stag, and they have a one-off tryst. When he gets in touch with her to return the pendant her late grandmother gave her, the pair can’t resist one more shag. Further complicating their delicate connection is the fact that Sloane’s ex-husband is Tucker’s teammate.
After being adamant that their fling cannot be repeated, Sloane blocks Tucker only to find out that she’s been left with something far more permanent than fond memories. Sloane is overwhelmed by the giant, boisterous extended Stag family, and is seriously considering just running far, far away.
Can they navigate the minefield of feelings and baggage they’ve wrought? Will they just be co-parents, or is there something greater worth exploring between them?
I was generously furnished an advance reader copy from the author, and I’m pleased to share my honest review.
After being adamant that their fling cannot be repeated, Sloane blocks Tucker only to find out that she’s been left with something far more permanent than fond memories. Sloane is overwhelmed by the giant, boisterous extended Stag family, and is seriously considering just running far, far away.
Can they navigate the minefield of feelings and baggage they’ve wrought? Will they just be co-parents, or is there something greater worth exploring between them?
I was generously furnished an advance reader copy from the author, and I’m pleased to share my honest review.
January 23, 2026
Stag-thusiasm!!! I say it with every new book, but I’ll say it again: I love the Stags. I really do. All of them. Extended family, friends, teammates (well, maybe not all of them . . . .). The next generation is growing up, making names for themselves in hockey or whatever they excel at, finding their one and only, settling down, starting families, and making mistakes just like those before them did. But they’ve got good genes, or good upbringing, or good role models, because even if they have a few wild oats to sow and at time do regrettable things, they are all loyal, dedicated, keep their word and their promises, help whenever, wherever and however they can, and always – without fail – put family first. They are a joy to read about. And it’s always fun to catch up with them again in a new book.
Playing with Fire is Tucker and Sloane’s story. Tucker is the Baby Stag, talented hockey player, but a playboy, privileged. Loves his big life and is always testing the boundaries. Takes things for granted.
Until that casual hook-up at a party that didn’t feel so casual. What’s up with that? He’s the one-night only guy. Tall, big, strong, handsome – why would he need to tie himself down to one woman? He falls fast and he falls hard for Sloane but he’s too young for this, his career is too important, he’s not ready.
To Sloane, that night was just supposed to be one final poke in the eye to the bad luck in her life, to hockey, to her ex-husband. Her first impression of Tucker as the perfect guy to have a no-strings, no-repeats fling with is quickly changed, though. He’s not like anyone she’s ever met, he makes her feel better than she’s ever felt, more seen than she’s felt in a long, long time. But she’s rebuilding her life, she has goals and things to accomplish, she’s been lost for so long she can’t trust that this could be real.
Well, too young, too busy, still too damaged from past hurts . . . all that has to go to the back burner when Sloane discovers she’s pregnant. Having a baby? Absolutely wonderful. Co-parenting, trusting someone, giving up more of herself again? Not so wonderful. Tucker is all in immediately; it’s like a switch flips in his head and heart and this baby and this woman become the most important thing in his world. But it’s not that simple. Sloane needs to be independent, need to prove to herself she can be independent after losing so much of herself in her marriage, after so many betrayals.
Sloane’s ex-husband, Josh Grentley, is a hockey player, too. On Tucker’s team. He’s a jerk, a moody, critical teammate, jealous and resentful of the Stags, still carrying a grudge against Sloane for daring to leave him and he doesn’t care who knows it. He’s physically aggressive with Tucker, tries to bully Sloane and creates a PR nightmare. Tucker is steadfast throughout, making his new little family a priority. But can they be a family? Sloane wants to do everything on her own. The concept of a large, loving family like the Stags is foreign to her, and terrifying.
Playing with Fire is another wonderful entry in the Stag Saga. They are loud and boisterous but so big-hearted, open, welcoming, always there for those they love and and the love extends to whoever they love. Tucker and Sloane have much more than a physical attraction, but it will take work, effort, patience and understanding from both of them to move forward. Their feelings are so strong and it’s a joy to watch their relationship, even the misunderstandings and the fights. The family is ecstatic over this baby and helpful almost to the point of overbearing. And through it all author Lainey Davis deals with a wide variety of social and personal issues: harassment, bullying, discrimination, equality, disability. As always, she seamlessly integrates all of this into the story, never beating you over the head with anything, never being stringent or harsh but getting you fully on board just a few pages in.
I received an advance copy of Playing with Fire from the author. I loved it and recommend it without hesitation. I don’t know if there will be more Stag stories but I am looking forward to whatever Davis writes next. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
Playing with Fire is Tucker and Sloane’s story. Tucker is the Baby Stag, talented hockey player, but a playboy, privileged. Loves his big life and is always testing the boundaries. Takes things for granted.
Until that casual hook-up at a party that didn’t feel so casual. What’s up with that? He’s the one-night only guy. Tall, big, strong, handsome – why would he need to tie himself down to one woman? He falls fast and he falls hard for Sloane but he’s too young for this, his career is too important, he’s not ready.
To Sloane, that night was just supposed to be one final poke in the eye to the bad luck in her life, to hockey, to her ex-husband. Her first impression of Tucker as the perfect guy to have a no-strings, no-repeats fling with is quickly changed, though. He’s not like anyone she’s ever met, he makes her feel better than she’s ever felt, more seen than she’s felt in a long, long time. But she’s rebuilding her life, she has goals and things to accomplish, she’s been lost for so long she can’t trust that this could be real.
Well, too young, too busy, still too damaged from past hurts . . . all that has to go to the back burner when Sloane discovers she’s pregnant. Having a baby? Absolutely wonderful. Co-parenting, trusting someone, giving up more of herself again? Not so wonderful. Tucker is all in immediately; it’s like a switch flips in his head and heart and this baby and this woman become the most important thing in his world. But it’s not that simple. Sloane needs to be independent, need to prove to herself she can be independent after losing so much of herself in her marriage, after so many betrayals.
Sloane’s ex-husband, Josh Grentley, is a hockey player, too. On Tucker’s team. He’s a jerk, a moody, critical teammate, jealous and resentful of the Stags, still carrying a grudge against Sloane for daring to leave him and he doesn’t care who knows it. He’s physically aggressive with Tucker, tries to bully Sloane and creates a PR nightmare. Tucker is steadfast throughout, making his new little family a priority. But can they be a family? Sloane wants to do everything on her own. The concept of a large, loving family like the Stags is foreign to her, and terrifying.
Playing with Fire is another wonderful entry in the Stag Saga. They are loud and boisterous but so big-hearted, open, welcoming, always there for those they love and and the love extends to whoever they love. Tucker and Sloane have much more than a physical attraction, but it will take work, effort, patience and understanding from both of them to move forward. Their feelings are so strong and it’s a joy to watch their relationship, even the misunderstandings and the fights. The family is ecstatic over this baby and helpful almost to the point of overbearing. And through it all author Lainey Davis deals with a wide variety of social and personal issues: harassment, bullying, discrimination, equality, disability. As always, she seamlessly integrates all of this into the story, never beating you over the head with anything, never being stringent or harsh but getting you fully on board just a few pages in.
I received an advance copy of Playing with Fire from the author. I loved it and recommend it without hesitation. I don’t know if there will be more Stag stories but I am looking forward to whatever Davis writes next. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
February 7, 2026
After Sloane’s husband once again did something behind her back far worse to her than having an affair it was the last straw. I know that sounds like an odd statement, but her ex was so dedicated to the sport he loved far more than her, she now knows. He never wanted her at the games because he said he didn't need the distraction; he never held her hand in public because he needed to be available for the paparazzi; and he made decisions about their lives without consulting her.
Sloane came to this pool party ready to start a new chapter. So she left him because she figured out that he had promised she would be able to finish the few credits she needed to get her degree, but he was never receptive to that because it messed with his schedule, which he needed her for. So she said she didn't think she could continue being married to him. He was not happy. She told him to join the club she was not happy with what he did. She told him before they married there were several major things she wanted, and he said they were doable.
But for the current discussion, he was basically saying not absolute. He reneged on all of them. So, she left him. At a pool party, she met a Thor look-alike in the form of a hocking player, Tucker Stag. They end up having a one-n-done. He was kind enough to get in touch with her to return her grandmother’s necklace. He had held on to it because he had wanted to see her again.
After all, she had made an impression. Even though they both figured out that the other knew who her ex was at the time, they still wanted each other. Truth be told he doesn’t understand what he did to garner her ex’s hatred to begin with all he has ever been is nice to him. They can’t resist being with each other again. Now backstory, Sloane had never had anyone but her grandmother, but then she passed. So that left her husband who said he would be there and make her dreams come true, and then he lied.
But then... He finds out she’s pregnant with his twins. She tried to ghost him, but he was like a mad dog chasing a bone. Not happening. Then he finds out she knew who he was all along, and he gets angry. And she gets a lot scared because her upper hand is lost, that she's been using it can’t work, but does she really want it to? He knows he can become the man that Sloane deserves. Most think he is a hothead, but that is his job. If he has to he will risk it all on ice no contest, his little family is more important.
My brothers always said my impulsive nature would burn me someday, never said the fire would guide me home to them. Yet, Sloane is overwhelmed by his giant, vociferous extended Stag family, and is seriously contemplating running far, far away. Will they be able to navigate the minefield of feelings and baggage they’ve formed? Will they only co-parent or is there more between them? Josh her ex is not making any of their transition easy.
They're divorced, and he’s making it out to be something else. He didn't even show her that much attention when she was married to him. So sit back buckle up and get ready for the Stag family. They’re a lot but they so mean well. Enjoy the read, I did.
Sloane came to this pool party ready to start a new chapter. So she left him because she figured out that he had promised she would be able to finish the few credits she needed to get her degree, but he was never receptive to that because it messed with his schedule, which he needed her for. So she said she didn't think she could continue being married to him. He was not happy. She told him to join the club she was not happy with what he did. She told him before they married there were several major things she wanted, and he said they were doable.
But for the current discussion, he was basically saying not absolute. He reneged on all of them. So, she left him. At a pool party, she met a Thor look-alike in the form of a hocking player, Tucker Stag. They end up having a one-n-done. He was kind enough to get in touch with her to return her grandmother’s necklace. He had held on to it because he had wanted to see her again.
After all, she had made an impression. Even though they both figured out that the other knew who her ex was at the time, they still wanted each other. Truth be told he doesn’t understand what he did to garner her ex’s hatred to begin with all he has ever been is nice to him. They can’t resist being with each other again. Now backstory, Sloane had never had anyone but her grandmother, but then she passed. So that left her husband who said he would be there and make her dreams come true, and then he lied.
But then... He finds out she’s pregnant with his twins. She tried to ghost him, but he was like a mad dog chasing a bone. Not happening. Then he finds out she knew who he was all along, and he gets angry. And she gets a lot scared because her upper hand is lost, that she's been using it can’t work, but does she really want it to? He knows he can become the man that Sloane deserves. Most think he is a hothead, but that is his job. If he has to he will risk it all on ice no contest, his little family is more important.
My brothers always said my impulsive nature would burn me someday, never said the fire would guide me home to them. Yet, Sloane is overwhelmed by his giant, vociferous extended Stag family, and is seriously contemplating running far, far away. Will they be able to navigate the minefield of feelings and baggage they’ve formed? Will they only co-parent or is there more between them? Josh her ex is not making any of their transition easy.
They're divorced, and he’s making it out to be something else. He didn't even show her that much attention when she was married to him. So sit back buckle up and get ready for the Stag family. They’re a lot but they so mean well. Enjoy the read, I did.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Tucker Stag is one of the enforcers on the Fury hockey team, which also contains his twin, Alder. Tucker is definitely a playboy when this book begins, living the high life. At his family’s giant vacation home, during a law school graduation party, Tucker encounters Sloane, a woman who’s out for a good time before she has to buckle back down and finish her degree, after a few years of a gap.
It’s important to mention that Sloane’s ex-husband, Josh, is also one of Tucker’s teammates, so you can imagine some of the interesting situations that will come about.
The thing is, what was supposed to be a one night stand didn’t feel like a one night stand to either Tucker or Sloane, and when they encounter each other again…well. Sparks fly, and babies are made.
I’ve read every book from this author that I can find, and I know all of the Family Stag from the beginning of their saga. This is the one that made me ugly cry more than once. This is not a complaint; I feel everything, all the time, and there is no off switch, and I have learned to embrace this as a strength, not a flaw.
I cried for Sloane, who thought that being independent meant she couldn’t ask for help, and who projected her previous relationship’s problems onto her current situation. I cried for Tucker, who, when realizing Sloane was more than just a one night stand, was devastated when she didn’t want a relationship with him, or any help from him at all. I cried for the disparities of health care between men and women, especially women of color. (Did you know med school doesn’t even teach women’s health with an actual chart of a woman’s body parts? It’s true.) I cried for the lack of leave of absence for Tucker when his family was in crisis. Basically, I cried a lot.
I loved this story. I loved Sloane, even when she wasn’t letting anyone help her. I loved Tucker, even when he was fist fighting with Sloane’s ex. I loved Juniper and Ty, Tucker’s parents, with their enthusiasm over Sloane and the babies, though Sloane felt they were trying to take away her agency. I loved Sloane’s friend Mel, who was supportive while also telling it like it is. I loved Alder, who is always there for his twin, and always will be, no matter what.
There are so many takeaways from this book, but I will highlight the one I think is the most important: asking for help is strength. It’s knowing that you are not diminished by needing help, but bolstered by people who love you and want your success and happiness. And this book shows how a family comes together to make a village for those babies and their mom and dad. Another excellent story of the Stags’ next generation, and wherever these stories go, I am one hundred percent on board.
It’s important to mention that Sloane’s ex-husband, Josh, is also one of Tucker’s teammates, so you can imagine some of the interesting situations that will come about.
The thing is, what was supposed to be a one night stand didn’t feel like a one night stand to either Tucker or Sloane, and when they encounter each other again…well. Sparks fly, and babies are made.
I’ve read every book from this author that I can find, and I know all of the Family Stag from the beginning of their saga. This is the one that made me ugly cry more than once. This is not a complaint; I feel everything, all the time, and there is no off switch, and I have learned to embrace this as a strength, not a flaw.
I cried for Sloane, who thought that being independent meant she couldn’t ask for help, and who projected her previous relationship’s problems onto her current situation. I cried for Tucker, who, when realizing Sloane was more than just a one night stand, was devastated when she didn’t want a relationship with him, or any help from him at all. I cried for the disparities of health care between men and women, especially women of color. (Did you know med school doesn’t even teach women’s health with an actual chart of a woman’s body parts? It’s true.) I cried for the lack of leave of absence for Tucker when his family was in crisis. Basically, I cried a lot.
I loved this story. I loved Sloane, even when she wasn’t letting anyone help her. I loved Tucker, even when he was fist fighting with Sloane’s ex. I loved Juniper and Ty, Tucker’s parents, with their enthusiasm over Sloane and the babies, though Sloane felt they were trying to take away her agency. I loved Sloane’s friend Mel, who was supportive while also telling it like it is. I loved Alder, who is always there for his twin, and always will be, no matter what.
There are so many takeaways from this book, but I will highlight the one I think is the most important: asking for help is strength. It’s knowing that you are not diminished by needing help, but bolstered by people who love you and want your success and happiness. And this book shows how a family comes together to make a village for those babies and their mom and dad. Another excellent story of the Stags’ next generation, and wherever these stories go, I am one hundred percent on board.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨Audiobook Review✨
OH LAINEY you had me swooning and smiling so much throughout this book! The Stag men are the BEST! I loved getting to know Tucker "T-Stag" and Sloane! I'm never disappointed with Lainey's writing and this series is definitely one of my favorites of hers.
I narrators Zoe Black & James Cassidy were absolutely amazing! These two held my attention and kept me entertained the entire time I was listening to this book. I didn't want to stop listening to them because they just had such welcoming voices.
Sloane & Tucker end up hooking up and that hook up ends with a surprise pregnancy! Sloane is trying to go to college and make something of her life. She's wants to be a independent woman and make her own choices. When she was married to her ex he controlled her life and made choices for her all the time. So when this pregnancy comes with Tucker wanting to be there, she doesn't know how to act because she wasn't use to someone caring like that but can she trust him.
Tucker is a hockey player and on the same team as Sloane's ex-husband so things get complicated when she ends up pregnant, But he will do everything he can to help her and be there in anyway he can. Of course once the whole Stag family finds out they become over baring and it scares Sloane. She has a lot of things to over come and a past she needs to let go. This story will take you on an emotional rollercoaster but it will give you all the feels.
I had so many laugh out loud moments through out and I was smiling like crazy! Tucker will steal your heart! I also love the Stag family! Their bond as a family is absolutely beautiful and you will love everyone of them! I HIGHLY recommend this audiobook and book!
Thank you Lainey Davis for allowing me to listen to this ALC and read the ARC for my honest opinion.
OH LAINEY you had me swooning and smiling so much throughout this book! The Stag men are the BEST! I loved getting to know Tucker "T-Stag" and Sloane! I'm never disappointed with Lainey's writing and this series is definitely one of my favorites of hers.
I narrators Zoe Black & James Cassidy were absolutely amazing! These two held my attention and kept me entertained the entire time I was listening to this book. I didn't want to stop listening to them because they just had such welcoming voices.
Sloane & Tucker end up hooking up and that hook up ends with a surprise pregnancy! Sloane is trying to go to college and make something of her life. She's wants to be a independent woman and make her own choices. When she was married to her ex he controlled her life and made choices for her all the time. So when this pregnancy comes with Tucker wanting to be there, she doesn't know how to act because she wasn't use to someone caring like that but can she trust him.
Tucker is a hockey player and on the same team as Sloane's ex-husband so things get complicated when she ends up pregnant, But he will do everything he can to help her and be there in anyway he can. Of course once the whole Stag family finds out they become over baring and it scares Sloane. She has a lot of things to over come and a past she needs to let go. This story will take you on an emotional rollercoaster but it will give you all the feels.
I had so many laugh out loud moments through out and I was smiling like crazy! Tucker will steal your heart! I also love the Stag family! Their bond as a family is absolutely beautiful and you will love everyone of them! I HIGHLY recommend this audiobook and book!
Thank you Lainey Davis for allowing me to listen to this ALC and read the ARC for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lainey Davis is having a ton of fun with the next generation of the Stag family and this one is Tucker's story. He's a professional hockey player with all the money and the toys but he's also open to being in a real relationship. He meets Sloane at a party and they have a real connection - and a hookup.
Sloane's world is a bit more complicated. She has divorced her hockey-playing husband - a team mate of Tucker's, and is realising how much of herself she lost in their marriage. She's enrolled in uni to finish her degree and use her independence to follow her own goals. The time with Tucker was a bit crazy and out of character, so she's really not expecting consequences.
Hilariously, Tucker is spruiking condoms, so it's all unexpected when Sloane finds herself pregnant.
The hockey world is very white, another reason Sloane feels erased when she meets aaallllll the Stag family - they are talented, and boisterous and not very good with boundaries - just as Sloane is trying to set some.
Tucker is a delight, spoilt and a bit silly, but also self-aware and keen to become a better man. There's a bit of hockey, and we can see some of the aggression that is integral to the game, but mostly, the focus is on Sloane adjusting to her new domestic reality as Tucker tries to keep up.
I'm intrigued by Sloane's room mate Mel and I hope she gets her own story :)
If you love low-angst sports romances (think Jennifer Sucevic or Sara Ney) and plenty of meddling family, 'Playing with Fire' will be a joy!
Thank you so much Lainey Davis for the ARC. Opinions are my own.
Sloane's world is a bit more complicated. She has divorced her hockey-playing husband - a team mate of Tucker's, and is realising how much of herself she lost in their marriage. She's enrolled in uni to finish her degree and use her independence to follow her own goals. The time with Tucker was a bit crazy and out of character, so she's really not expecting consequences.
Hilariously, Tucker is spruiking condoms, so it's all unexpected when Sloane finds herself pregnant.
The hockey world is very white, another reason Sloane feels erased when she meets aaallllll the Stag family - they are talented, and boisterous and not very good with boundaries - just as Sloane is trying to set some.
Tucker is a delight, spoilt and a bit silly, but also self-aware and keen to become a better man. There's a bit of hockey, and we can see some of the aggression that is integral to the game, but mostly, the focus is on Sloane adjusting to her new domestic reality as Tucker tries to keep up.
I'm intrigued by Sloane's room mate Mel and I hope she gets her own story :)
If you love low-angst sports romances (think Jennifer Sucevic or Sara Ney) and plenty of meddling family, 'Playing with Fire' will be a joy!
Thank you so much Lainey Davis for the ARC. Opinions are my own.
January 23, 2026
3.5 Stars!
I’m a huge fan of Lainey Davis and have loved all of her books! To this day, Ty Stag is tied for my all time favorite MMC and his sons are not too far off! However, this was actually one of the hardest book for me to review.
While I’ve loved all the Stag men, they are not free of faults! Tucker, the wild, somewhat reckless party guy, was definitely in need of maturity! This story not only highlighted his sweetness and his deep love for family, but also the growth he underwent to become the man he was by the end of the story. And once again, another Stag has stollen a piece of my heart!
Sloan was basically in the process of rebuilding her life. And I felt bad for what she’d been through, but loved that she was trying to get back on track. The hard part for me was that while I understood that she wanted to feel in control of her life, she had no trouble taking it away from Tucker. She did so when she was in the hospital, and again when she chose the names. I thought it was selfish. It took two people to create a miracle(s) so they both needed to be involved, or at the very least be able to offer an opinion.
I almost felt like Tucker was walking on eggshells to not offend or upset Sloan, even though he was putting in the effort to learn about her and the babies’ needs. She did somewhat redeem herself towards the end, but I was just exhausted by then.
I’d love a story about Mel! Maybe she can have her own Stag!!! I’m also very curious to find out what’s going on with Stellan!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion!
I’m a huge fan of Lainey Davis and have loved all of her books! To this day, Ty Stag is tied for my all time favorite MMC and his sons are not too far off! However, this was actually one of the hardest book for me to review.
While I’ve loved all the Stag men, they are not free of faults! Tucker, the wild, somewhat reckless party guy, was definitely in need of maturity! This story not only highlighted his sweetness and his deep love for family, but also the growth he underwent to become the man he was by the end of the story. And once again, another Stag has stollen a piece of my heart!
Sloan was basically in the process of rebuilding her life. And I felt bad for what she’d been through, but loved that she was trying to get back on track. The hard part for me was that while I understood that she wanted to feel in control of her life, she had no trouble taking it away from Tucker. She did so when she was in the hospital, and again when she chose the names. I thought it was selfish. It took two people to create a miracle(s) so they both needed to be involved, or at the very least be able to offer an opinion.
I almost felt like Tucker was walking on eggshells to not offend or upset Sloan, even though he was putting in the effort to learn about her and the babies’ needs. She did somewhat redeem herself towards the end, but I was just exhausted by then.
I’d love a story about Mel! Maybe she can have her own Stag!!! I’m also very curious to find out what’s going on with Stellan!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Gotta love those Stag hockey playing boys! I've read all three of the Playing series and it just keeps getting better. Tucker is the last to fall, but wow does he ever fall hard for Sloane, the guarded, mysterious woman he meets at his cousin's pool party. The two of them hook up for a hot and wild encounter, but there's one big problem, she's the recently divorced ex-wife of the starting goalie on his hockey team so she leaves him the next morning with no intention to stay involved.
Sloane is trying to move on with her life and regain her autonomy after her divorce. She fears that if she gets involved with Tucker, she'll wind up right back in the same position she was in her first marriage, subservient to another hockey player's career and his fame. The one thing she didn't plan on was a pregnancy that throws her life plans into chaos.
Tucker was adorable, warm-hearted although generally not used to considering anyone else's viewpoint. However, he was open to learning, growing, and changing to be the man Sloane needed him to be. He was all in, right from the start, with absolutely no hesitation about being a father. Sloane came from a completely different background that taught her to be fierce, guarded, and wary of anyone trying to help her. Her fears about being swallowed up by Tucker and the large, rather overwhelming Stag family were understandable in the context of her life experiences to date.
Their journey to form a family together was emotional, sweet, and heartfelt with plenty of heat. Although this book is the last one about the hockey playing side of the family, there are plenty of Stag cousins waiting in the wings, so hopefully the Stag family saga will continue! I received an advance copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Sloane is trying to move on with her life and regain her autonomy after her divorce. She fears that if she gets involved with Tucker, she'll wind up right back in the same position she was in her first marriage, subservient to another hockey player's career and his fame. The one thing she didn't plan on was a pregnancy that throws her life plans into chaos.
Tucker was adorable, warm-hearted although generally not used to considering anyone else's viewpoint. However, he was open to learning, growing, and changing to be the man Sloane needed him to be. He was all in, right from the start, with absolutely no hesitation about being a father. Sloane came from a completely different background that taught her to be fierce, guarded, and wary of anyone trying to help her. Her fears about being swallowed up by Tucker and the large, rather overwhelming Stag family were understandable in the context of her life experiences to date.
Their journey to form a family together was emotional, sweet, and heartfelt with plenty of heat. Although this book is the last one about the hockey playing side of the family, there are plenty of Stag cousins waiting in the wings, so hopefully the Stag family saga will continue! I received an advance copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
T-Stag keeps showing up
I loved the emotional connection this story brought. Sloane is determined to gain her independence and sense of self after a betrayal leads to divorce. Tucker Stag was supposed to be anything but permanent. But Sloane must learn to roll with what life brings and that includes a big, noisy, supportive family that she was totally unprepared for.
I love the extended Stag family, their love and support for each other is beautiful, but this story shows how it could be overwhelming for some.
I cried right along with Tucker each time he lost his way, I laughed at the antics, I was frustrated, hurt and angry along with Sloane, and I fell in love with each of them as they worked together.
This is full of heart, change, growth, redemption, healing, humour, tension, angst, family, sweetness and steam.
It’s about holding onto your own identity while accepting support and love by the bucketload.
This next generation of Stag’s is another must read series but Ms Davis.
I loved the emotional connection this story brought. Sloane is determined to gain her independence and sense of self after a betrayal leads to divorce. Tucker Stag was supposed to be anything but permanent. But Sloane must learn to roll with what life brings and that includes a big, noisy, supportive family that she was totally unprepared for.
I love the extended Stag family, their love and support for each other is beautiful, but this story shows how it could be overwhelming for some.
I cried right along with Tucker each time he lost his way, I laughed at the antics, I was frustrated, hurt and angry along with Sloane, and I fell in love with each of them as they worked together.
This is full of heart, change, growth, redemption, healing, humour, tension, angst, family, sweetness and steam.
It’s about holding onto your own identity while accepting support and love by the bucketload.
This next generation of Stag’s is another must read series but Ms Davis.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Accepting Support
A lot of the time fear rules our lives. Fear of being rejected, being hurt or vulnerable, fear for change, to trust another person. Or losing independence. All these things are in this book and two people taking this hurdle and learning to grow and accept changes. Together. Having been raised by her grandmother with no other family, the confrontation with the big, noisy, chaotic Stag family is throwing Sloane way off base. After a marriage where she found herself disappeared in her husband’s life, being able to make her own decisions and life choices is paramount. Tucker wants to take care of her and all her needs and doesn’t realize that she finds it overwhelming and suffocating. Until circumstances change and she sees that the care is given out of love. What a wonderful story. Again. In this series of the next Stag generation. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A lot of the time fear rules our lives. Fear of being rejected, being hurt or vulnerable, fear for change, to trust another person. Or losing independence. All these things are in this book and two people taking this hurdle and learning to grow and accept changes. Together. Having been raised by her grandmother with no other family, the confrontation with the big, noisy, chaotic Stag family is throwing Sloane way off base. After a marriage where she found herself disappeared in her husband’s life, being able to make her own decisions and life choices is paramount. Tucker wants to take care of her and all her needs and doesn’t realize that she finds it overwhelming and suffocating. Until circumstances change and she sees that the care is given out of love. What a wonderful story. Again. In this series of the next Stag generation. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 3, 2026
Lainey Davis is one of those authors that makes me swoon and fall in love with her charactes no matter what. She is my n° 1.
A passionate and intense romance filled with strong attraction and emotional stakes. Lainey Davis delivers sizzling chemistry and a story that keeps you invested until the end. This third installment is as wonderful as the previous books in the series ♥
The lives of Tucker and Slo change when they lock eyes. They have instant chemistry (so much so that the hot night they share ends up with a positive pregnancy test!)
They were complex, as every one of us, with problems to solve, hard decisions to face, and and altering curveball the Universe threw towards them. Despite their rocky love story, the end was wonderful. They deserve everything they want and more. I'll hold them in my heart ♥
Thank you for this fantastic ARC, Lainey!
A passionate and intense romance filled with strong attraction and emotional stakes. Lainey Davis delivers sizzling chemistry and a story that keeps you invested until the end. This third installment is as wonderful as the previous books in the series ♥
The lives of Tucker and Slo change when they lock eyes. They have instant chemistry (so much so that the hot night they share ends up with a positive pregnancy test!)
They were complex, as every one of us, with problems to solve, hard decisions to face, and and altering curveball the Universe threw towards them. Despite their rocky love story, the end was wonderful. They deserve everything they want and more. I'll hold them in my heart ♥
Thank you for this fantastic ARC, Lainey!
January 24, 2026
I get Sloane. She's trying to step back into the life she left when she married the grumpy, uptight, goalie, Josh. She has a ONS with Tucker that rocks both their worlds. She also knows the problems of being with him because he's her ex's teammate. She's also wary of giving up everything again for another hockey player. "But that's the trap, isn't it? Feeling safe with a man, only to discover you've lost yourself in his world." She takes it too far. Confusing because she doesn't know what she wants and blames him. Gets tedious.
There is little plot except her fear of dependence and neither of them will talk. Plus he has a hugely overwhelming and annoying family.
There is little plot except her fear of dependence and neither of them will talk. Plus he has a hugely overwhelming and annoying family.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“I’m all in, Sloane, completely, terrifyingly all in. I’ll wait as long as you need. I’ll give you space when you ask for it. I’ll be here when you are ready to let me in. I’m not going anywhere. Even when you try to push me away” “You and these babies matter more than hockey” “ Hoxkey is your life”. “ You are my life. Hockey is just what I do. You’re who I’m now” Tucker and Sloane’s love story is full of great moments but also pain, distrust, fear until they finally find each other. The audiobook with Zoey Black and James Cassidy makes a great story an even better one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Independence is all she's has ever wanted. Be in charge of her own life. He's always been the playboy. Got whatever he wanted or just took it knowing he could. Total opposites. It was suppose to be one night, but the pull was much greater than expected for both of them. Hot, infuriating, complicated, walking on egg shells, scary for both and oh so HOT!! Hockey romance at its best. Don't want to miss this series with more Stag's than anyone knows what to do with.
January 25, 2026
I enjoyed this book, particularly Tucker. He couldn't have been more perfect. Sloane, the ex-wife of one of Tucker's teammates wants to do everything on her own and by her own decisions. She has a good reason, but I thought she took it too far. Still, it's a great story and Tucker is wonderful as the man stuck between family and career.
There is explicit sex so it isn't for everyone, but I thought it was appropriate for the book.
There is explicit sex so it isn't for everyone, but I thought it was appropriate for the book.
February 18, 2026
A one-night stand (ok, more than one night) with some dodgy condoms leads Sloane, recently divorced from a hockey goalie, to get pregnant by one of her ex-husband's teammates.
Tucker, an enforcer for the team, changes his bad-boy behavior to become super supportive, even when it becomes annoying.
Mostly ridiculous plot, and some spicy scenes, make this an ok read if you have enjoyed her other hockey romances. I didn't hate it, but was glad to finish it.
Tucker, an enforcer for the team, changes his bad-boy behavior to become super supportive, even when it becomes annoying.
Mostly ridiculous plot, and some spicy scenes, make this an ok read if you have enjoyed her other hockey romances. I didn't hate it, but was glad to finish it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ah, I really do love the Stags and all their crazy kids. Tucker's book was overwhelming to be honest. I am emotionally wrung out and the book hangover is going to last for days, but it was worth it to spend time with these boys again. I'm not sure what's next or if there will even be more, but their are still cousins who haven't had their happily ever afters, so here's hoping.
January 12, 2026
This was a good book. I really liked Sloane and Tucker. I liked the way Tucker grew and how he started to give Sloane what she needed. Sloane is a complex character. She has to work through some issues. I liked the storyline. As always I love the Stags! Can't wait for the next book.
Review of advance copy
Audiobook
This pre-published review is from the Audiobook on the Author's YouTube channel.
Narrators:
Zoe Black 🌟 🤩
James Cassidy 🌟 🤩
Pittsburgh locale! 🌟 🤩
Sloane
Tucker Stag - Hockey Enforcer for the Pittsburgh Furies
This pre-published review is from the Audiobook on the Author's YouTube channel.
Narrators:
Zoe Black 🌟 🤩
James Cassidy 🌟 🤩
Pittsburgh locale! 🌟 🤩
Sloane
Tucker Stag - Hockey Enforcer for the Pittsburgh Furies
January 24, 2026
It was ok.
I just didn't like Sloane. She never even thought about getting therapy at all. Before she met Tucker. She just dwelled on everything almost to her downfall. Tucker was kind of annoying, too. I finished it but I'm not going to buy it like I did with his brothers books.
I just didn't like Sloane. She never even thought about getting therapy at all. Before she met Tucker. She just dwelled on everything almost to her downfall. Tucker was kind of annoying, too. I finished it but I'm not going to buy it like I did with his brothers books.
February 1, 2026
While I liked the orher books in this series much this one could not hit it... I did not like the portrayal of the heroine... I mean I get why she is like she is but I could not relate to her behaviors... other than that it was a solid read an I love how the Heroes in these books are so cute.
January 23, 2026
Very cute and sweet. Again, some room was missed for character development, but short and sweet. I liked it a lot.
January 25, 2026
Cute way to end the Stagg family stories!
February 11, 2026
good book but Sloan character was way over the top dramtic and made no sense half the time
January 21, 2026
✨arc review✨
This book was great, and I'm so glad I got to read it! Sloane and Tucker have a one-night stand, and she gets pregnant. He doesn't have the best reputation, but immediately makes an effort to change for her and the baby. I loved how Tucker stepped up right off the bat, and made sure that Sloane was his top priority. I couldn't really understand why Sloane felt suffocated by him and his family, and I would have liked to see race be more of a conversation, but other than that, this was a great book.
Thank you to Lainey Davis for the arc!!
This book was great, and I'm so glad I got to read it! Sloane and Tucker have a one-night stand, and she gets pregnant. He doesn't have the best reputation, but immediately makes an effort to change for her and the baby. I loved how Tucker stepped up right off the bat, and made sure that Sloane was his top priority. I couldn't really understand why Sloane felt suffocated by him and his family, and I would have liked to see race be more of a conversation, but other than that, this was a great book.
Thank you to Lainey Davis for the arc!!
January 21, 2026
This was an interesting book that kept me hooked wanting to see Sloane and Tucker make it together. I’m a sucker for accidental baby romances, so this one was right up my alley. Tucker was such a sweet guy. It took a lot of courage and owning up for him, to lay aside his old ways and own up to being a dad and being there for Sloane. Now Sloane on the other hand really tested my patience. At first she came off as very selfish to me. Every time Tucker tried to take care of her and help her, she would over react and say hurtful things to him that he didn’t deserve. I understand that she had been through a difficult marriage and was trying to find herself again, but at times she was just doing way too much and being extremely ungrateful. Nevertheless, towards the end of the story, she redeemed herself. I love that she was the one who groveled because Tucker was just the absolute sweetest guy. Overall this was a decent story and I loved the fact that it was an interracial romance!
I received a free ARC copy of this book from the lovely Lainey Davis herself, and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.
I received a free ARC copy of this book from the lovely Lainey Davis herself, and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.
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