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Star Crossed Skates
Rodriguez has established himself as the Seattle Puckaneers' most charming player.
When a chance encounter with a local figure skater leaves him completely iced out, he's determined to know why she's the only person who won't give him the time of day. After months of tentative friendship he finally gets a shot when she needs a date to her sister's wedding. One weekend in Toronto pretending to be hers? He'd fly across the country for far less.
Juliette Chastain knows better than to trust hockey players.
But when she finds out that her ex-boyfriend will be bringing his new fiancée to her sister's wedding desperation makes her do something she asks the one man she's been trying to avoid for help.
What starts as an elaborate performance becomes dangerously real. The notes he leaves on her pillow. The way he looks at her when no one's watching. The kiss that was supposed to be for show but feels like far more.
Back home, the fake relationship has become the most real thing either of them has experienced. But she's terrified of getting burned again, and he's a professional athlete whose life is chaos and uncertainty.
When pretending becomes impossible, they'll have to is love worth the risk when everything feels too good to be true?
When a chance encounter with a local figure skater leaves him completely iced out, he's determined to know why she's the only person who won't give him the time of day. After months of tentative friendship he finally gets a shot when she needs a date to her sister's wedding. One weekend in Toronto pretending to be hers? He'd fly across the country for far less.
Juliette Chastain knows better than to trust hockey players.
But when she finds out that her ex-boyfriend will be bringing his new fiancée to her sister's wedding desperation makes her do something she asks the one man she's been trying to avoid for help.
What starts as an elaborate performance becomes dangerously real. The notes he leaves on her pillow. The way he looks at her when no one's watching. The kiss that was supposed to be for show but feels like far more.
Back home, the fake relationship has become the most real thing either of them has experienced. But she's terrified of getting burned again, and he's a professional athlete whose life is chaos and uncertainty.
When pretending becomes impossible, they'll have to is love worth the risk when everything feels too good to be true?
460 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2026
8 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Okay, listen to me. This book is insanely good. I do not even know how to explain it, but from the 10 percent in, maybe even earlier, you are already watching an exquisite man completely lose his mind, obsess, and basically worship the ground that woman walks on. Rodríguez, you are my man and the whole world needs to know you 😭😭😭😭
Huge thanks to Luna Literary and Tisha for letting me read this ARC ❤️🫰🏻
I absolutely loved the story of Rodríguez and Juliette. This is one of those stories where everything is built so well and so naturally that before you realize it, you are fully invested.
Rodríguez is the kind of man who knows exactly what he wants and does not hesitate. Confident, driven, with a clear goal and one mission only: to win over Juliette, the woman he saw once and instantly knew he needed to know more about.I loved the way they meet because it feels real. Pure coincidence. That is how life works, putting the right people in your path exactly when you need them the most, whether it is for something new, a change, or to turn everything upside down.
Juliette has her life perfectly structured. Training, meal preps, classes, work, and her “boyfriend”. What she never expected was to catch the attention of a hockey player who became obsessed with her while watching her train figure skating and even recorded a video of her as a silent spectator.From the very beginning, Juliette knew he was dangerous. Charming, insanely attractive, talented, and persistent. She knew that if she gave him even the smallest bit of hope, she would be done for. What she did not expect was to find out that her “boyfriend” was a complete idiot and that she now had a bigger problem. She had to go to Toronto for her sister’s wedding and, on top of that, her stupid ex boyfriend was going to be there with his new “girlfriend”.
So what happened next. Our beloved Rodríguez did what any man in love would do. He proposed a deal to help her survive those difficult days. Of course, he also wanted to use that time to show her what a good man he truly was and that he could be so much more than something fake.
In the end, this book was incredible. The chemistry between them was intense, the spicy scenes were sweet and well done, and the kisses were explosive.
Infinite stars for this book. Thank you again for letting me read this ARC ⭐✨
Huge thanks to Luna Literary and Tisha for letting me read this ARC ❤️🫰🏻
I absolutely loved the story of Rodríguez and Juliette. This is one of those stories where everything is built so well and so naturally that before you realize it, you are fully invested.
Rodríguez is the kind of man who knows exactly what he wants and does not hesitate. Confident, driven, with a clear goal and one mission only: to win over Juliette, the woman he saw once and instantly knew he needed to know more about.I loved the way they meet because it feels real. Pure coincidence. That is how life works, putting the right people in your path exactly when you need them the most, whether it is for something new, a change, or to turn everything upside down.
Juliette has her life perfectly structured. Training, meal preps, classes, work, and her “boyfriend”. What she never expected was to catch the attention of a hockey player who became obsessed with her while watching her train figure skating and even recorded a video of her as a silent spectator.From the very beginning, Juliette knew he was dangerous. Charming, insanely attractive, talented, and persistent. She knew that if she gave him even the smallest bit of hope, she would be done for. What she did not expect was to find out that her “boyfriend” was a complete idiot and that she now had a bigger problem. She had to go to Toronto for her sister’s wedding and, on top of that, her stupid ex boyfriend was going to be there with his new “girlfriend”.
So what happened next. Our beloved Rodríguez did what any man in love would do. He proposed a deal to help her survive those difficult days. Of course, he also wanted to use that time to show her what a good man he truly was and that he could be so much more than something fake.
In the end, this book was incredible. The chemistry between them was intense, the spicy scenes were sweet and well done, and the kisses were explosive.
Infinite stars for this book. Thank you again for letting me read this ARC ⭐✨
February 3, 2026
My first ARC of 2026 and wow what a start.
I love a golden retriever man and an “icy” girl combo so naturally I ate this right up. Juliette is perfectly content with her life just as it is until a phone call from her “ex” boyfriend. Her ex who is also her sisters fiancé’s best friend. Who is also the best man in their wedding and Juliette is the maid of honor- recipe for disaster. So after MONTHS of attempts from the golden boy hockey player Rodriguez who’s been trying to get her attention she gives him a bone at just the right time and he offers to be her fake boyfriend and attend the wedding to help her out. Rodriguez knows this means nothing in her eyes, but he can change her mind- he knows it he just has to show her how good they can be together and show her how she should’ve been treated. And boy does he deliver. The banter between not only these two, but the group chat with the guys was absolutely amazing. Finding out Rodriguez’s real name- I won’t spoil it- find out for yourselves!
I love a golden retriever man and an “icy” girl combo so naturally I ate this right up. Juliette is perfectly content with her life just as it is until a phone call from her “ex” boyfriend. Her ex who is also her sisters fiancé’s best friend. Who is also the best man in their wedding and Juliette is the maid of honor- recipe for disaster. So after MONTHS of attempts from the golden boy hockey player Rodriguez who’s been trying to get her attention she gives him a bone at just the right time and he offers to be her fake boyfriend and attend the wedding to help her out. Rodriguez knows this means nothing in her eyes, but he can change her mind- he knows it he just has to show her how good they can be together and show her how she should’ve been treated. And boy does he deliver. The banter between not only these two, but the group chat with the guys was absolutely amazing. Finding out Rodriguez’s real name- I won’t spoil it- find out for yourselves!
February 18, 2026
star crossed skates….lovers or friends
Star Crossed Skates -
By Tisha Patrick
2/14/2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
FMC Juliette ice skater.
MMC Rodriguez plays hockey for the puckaneers.
These two are epic. Quite different start to a friends to lovers romance. I’m loving it. MMC Rodriguez sees our FMC ice skating and is immediately taken by her beautiful skating. Juliette ignores him famously for months. He calls her Juju or ice queen, she doesn’t want to let him in. We know how this may go….
He so falls first, but she catches up….eventually. A forced proximity situation makes things all the better.
“Juliette “Ice Queen” Chastain was using me as a teddy bear and has no idea I know.” This was one of my favorite lines. You have got to read this book. The Banter, the friendship is emotional and amazing. Thank you Tisha Patrick for letting me read this book. Can’t wait for more!!
Star Crossed Skates -
By Tisha Patrick
2/14/2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
FMC Juliette ice skater.
MMC Rodriguez plays hockey for the puckaneers.
These two are epic. Quite different start to a friends to lovers romance. I’m loving it. MMC Rodriguez sees our FMC ice skating and is immediately taken by her beautiful skating. Juliette ignores him famously for months. He calls her Juju or ice queen, she doesn’t want to let him in. We know how this may go….
He so falls first, but she catches up….eventually. A forced proximity situation makes things all the better.
“Juliette “Ice Queen” Chastain was using me as a teddy bear and has no idea I know.” This was one of my favorite lines. You have got to read this book. The Banter, the friendship is emotional and amazing. Thank you Tisha Patrick for letting me read this book. Can’t wait for more!!
February 19, 2026
there were parts where i felt like they weren’t necessary but all in all it was a good book.
romeo and juliette? i died when her whole family found out.
very curious to what happened to sienna though? she disappeared all of a sudden. no explanation, nothing.
i love how the wags took juju in.
and the way he cherished, cared, and loved her? so cute.
romeo and juliette? i died when her whole family found out.
very curious to what happened to sienna though? she disappeared all of a sudden. no explanation, nothing.
i love how the wags took juju in.
and the way he cherished, cared, and loved her? so cute.
December 3, 2025
beta read💕
February 15, 2026
Wow...this book is beyond amazing. Literally, I have been writing, deleting, and rewriting this review because my words don't seem to be doing it justice. Rodriguez and Juliette are perfect for each other even though they seem like an unlikely couple.
Juliette is serious, and disciplined to a fault. As a competitive figure skater, her life revolved around strict routines, training, and meticulously planning to stay physically and mentally healthy for competitions. This dedication to her sport caused problems with her long-term boyfriend which led her to impulsively reinjure her stress fracture. She is the eldest sibling and would do anything for her family, even endure her sister's wedding in which her ex is a part of.
Rodriguez is a NHL player who has too much time on his hands. He likes social media and adores sharing his life with his fans. After sustaining an injury, he needs to rest but he hates the quiet and sitting still. He us like a golden retreiver puppy needing attention. He is a good friend and teammate but hates being on the sidelines.
He became borderline obsessed with Juliette after first seeing her skate. Something about her caught his attention and wouldn't let go. He started dropping by her practices to try to get to know her. He was persistent, even when she gave him the ice queen cold shoulder. He didn't know she had a boyfriend at first but after the breakup, she finally agreed to coffee. Soon they were on their way to becoming friends. After learning about her trip home for the wedding, he offered to go with her for support and to be her "boyfriend". For Rodriguez, it wasn't an act, he was already in deep. He wanted no one but her, she was reluctant to be anything other than friends after being hurt badly. She no longer trusted easily.
During the trip, they got closer and Juliette saw the real Rodriguez. He became someone she wanted, someone she could trust. Someone she could see herself with long term, especially after standing up fir her time after time. He continued to put her first. After returning to their real lives, their relationship continued until a misunderstanding and lack of communication threatened to derail their newfound love. Rodriguez and Juliette were both devastated for different reasons, but after another on ice injury, they both had to talk. They had to work together, they had to decide if being together was better than being apart? Was love worth the risk. Could this Romeo and Juliette pairing get their happily ever after?
I loved this book so much and will definitely be reading it again! Thank you Tisha Patrick and Luna Literary Management for the ARC and the opportunity to review this outstanding book!
Juliette is serious, and disciplined to a fault. As a competitive figure skater, her life revolved around strict routines, training, and meticulously planning to stay physically and mentally healthy for competitions. This dedication to her sport caused problems with her long-term boyfriend which led her to impulsively reinjure her stress fracture. She is the eldest sibling and would do anything for her family, even endure her sister's wedding in which her ex is a part of.
Rodriguez is a NHL player who has too much time on his hands. He likes social media and adores sharing his life with his fans. After sustaining an injury, he needs to rest but he hates the quiet and sitting still. He us like a golden retreiver puppy needing attention. He is a good friend and teammate but hates being on the sidelines.
He became borderline obsessed with Juliette after first seeing her skate. Something about her caught his attention and wouldn't let go. He started dropping by her practices to try to get to know her. He was persistent, even when she gave him the ice queen cold shoulder. He didn't know she had a boyfriend at first but after the breakup, she finally agreed to coffee. Soon they were on their way to becoming friends. After learning about her trip home for the wedding, he offered to go with her for support and to be her "boyfriend". For Rodriguez, it wasn't an act, he was already in deep. He wanted no one but her, she was reluctant to be anything other than friends after being hurt badly. She no longer trusted easily.
During the trip, they got closer and Juliette saw the real Rodriguez. He became someone she wanted, someone she could trust. Someone she could see herself with long term, especially after standing up fir her time after time. He continued to put her first. After returning to their real lives, their relationship continued until a misunderstanding and lack of communication threatened to derail their newfound love. Rodriguez and Juliette were both devastated for different reasons, but after another on ice injury, they both had to talk. They had to work together, they had to decide if being together was better than being apart? Was love worth the risk. Could this Romeo and Juliette pairing get their happily ever after?
I loved this book so much and will definitely be reading it again! Thank you Tisha Patrick and Luna Literary Management for the ARC and the opportunity to review this outstanding book!
February 18, 2026
I had to push past the first section of this book. If you enjoy golden-retriever energy and a persistent MMC, Rodriguez may not bother you the way he initially bothered me. Jules clearly states multiple times that she isn’t interested, yet he continues to pursue her in an effort to crack the “ice queen” exterior. Some readers may find this dynamic endearing; for me, it was less appealing.
That said, the writing itself is solid—actually quite good. I read this as an ARC, and as someone who genuinely enjoys sports romance, the premise absolutely drew me in.
We’re given a grumpy girl meets sunshine boy pairing with Juliette and Rodriguez. As a grumpy girl myself, I immediately connected with Jules and appreciated her strength and confidence. I wanted to see her continue to stand firmly in who she is without needing to soften for the sake of romance. Rodriguez, on the other hand, took longer to grow on me. What he frames as passion sometimes read to me as over-persistence, particularly early on. There are moments where boundaries feel blurred—he struggles to take rejection at face value and has to delete footage filmed without permission—which may be playful or amusing for some readers, but didn’t fully work for me.
However, Rodriguez isn’t a flat character. One aspect I appreciated was his emotional awareness—he notices when Jules is struggling and, rather than pushing her directly when she’s made her feelings clear, seeks advice from others on how to support her. That added depth and intentionality to his character.
Much like a happy dog, Rodriguez did grow on me. Around the 10% mark, I began to see that his behavior isn’t rooted in creepiness but in drive—both as an athlete and as someone who commits fully to what he wants. That determination is ultimately what helped me warm up to him.
While this MMC wasn’t entirely my type, the book is well written, thoughtfully constructed, and will likely appeal to readers who enjoy persistent sunshine heroes paired with grumpy, guarded FMCs.
That said, the writing itself is solid—actually quite good. I read this as an ARC, and as someone who genuinely enjoys sports romance, the premise absolutely drew me in.
We’re given a grumpy girl meets sunshine boy pairing with Juliette and Rodriguez. As a grumpy girl myself, I immediately connected with Jules and appreciated her strength and confidence. I wanted to see her continue to stand firmly in who she is without needing to soften for the sake of romance. Rodriguez, on the other hand, took longer to grow on me. What he frames as passion sometimes read to me as over-persistence, particularly early on. There are moments where boundaries feel blurred—he struggles to take rejection at face value and has to delete footage filmed without permission—which may be playful or amusing for some readers, but didn’t fully work for me.
However, Rodriguez isn’t a flat character. One aspect I appreciated was his emotional awareness—he notices when Jules is struggling and, rather than pushing her directly when she’s made her feelings clear, seeks advice from others on how to support her. That added depth and intentionality to his character.
Much like a happy dog, Rodriguez did grow on me. Around the 10% mark, I began to see that his behavior isn’t rooted in creepiness but in drive—both as an athlete and as someone who commits fully to what he wants. That determination is ultimately what helped me warm up to him.
While this MMC wasn’t entirely my type, the book is well written, thoughtfully constructed, and will likely appeal to readers who enjoy persistent sunshine heroes paired with grumpy, guarded FMCs.
Review of advance copy
Star Crossed Skates was such a fun, swoony read—and honestly, it hit every single note I wanted it to.
Rodriguez is that infamous hockey star—the content-creating, confident, larger-than-life kind of guy—but the moment he catches sight of Juliette, the so-called Ice Queen, he’s completely undone. Watching him go from star-struck to utterly devoted was one of my favorite parts of this story. He doesn’t push, doesn’t demand—he just wants a chance to talk to her, and that alone made him impossible not to love.
Juliette (Juju <3) had my whole heart. She’s disciplined, graceful, and laser-focused on skating, patiently waiting for her boyfriend of three years to finally move to Seattle—until he drops a bombshell no one sees coming. Betrayed and heartbroken, she does what she’s always done: puts on a brave face and strives to be perfect, especially with her sister’s wedding looming and the unavoidable reunion with her ex ahead.
Enter Rodriguez, willing to shove his own feelings aside just to be there for her. The fake dating plan? Foolproof. Iconic. And yes, fake dating always works out… right? Maybe. Especially when the chemistry is undeniable and the devotion runs deep.
These two are the absolute epitome of the fake dating trope done right. The slow burn, the emotional support, the way Rodriguez shows up for Juliette without expecting anything in return—it was everything. I loved how soft he was with her, how steady, and how genuinely invested he became in her happiness.
If you love fake dating, sports romance, and a hero who is completely gone for the woman he adores, Star Crossed Skates deserves a spot on your TBR. I ate this one up. 💙⛸️🏒
Rodriguez is that infamous hockey star—the content-creating, confident, larger-than-life kind of guy—but the moment he catches sight of Juliette, the so-called Ice Queen, he’s completely undone. Watching him go from star-struck to utterly devoted was one of my favorite parts of this story. He doesn’t push, doesn’t demand—he just wants a chance to talk to her, and that alone made him impossible not to love.
Juliette (Juju <3) had my whole heart. She’s disciplined, graceful, and laser-focused on skating, patiently waiting for her boyfriend of three years to finally move to Seattle—until he drops a bombshell no one sees coming. Betrayed and heartbroken, she does what she’s always done: puts on a brave face and strives to be perfect, especially with her sister’s wedding looming and the unavoidable reunion with her ex ahead.
Enter Rodriguez, willing to shove his own feelings aside just to be there for her. The fake dating plan? Foolproof. Iconic. And yes, fake dating always works out… right? Maybe. Especially when the chemistry is undeniable and the devotion runs deep.
These two are the absolute epitome of the fake dating trope done right. The slow burn, the emotional support, the way Rodriguez shows up for Juliette without expecting anything in return—it was everything. I loved how soft he was with her, how steady, and how genuinely invested he became in her happiness.
If you love fake dating, sports romance, and a hero who is completely gone for the woman he adores, Star Crossed Skates deserves a spot on your TBR. I ate this one up. 💙⛸️🏒
Review of advance copy received from Author
Spoilers??
SUMMARY:
Star Crossed Skaters follows Juliette, a figure skater who teaches children at a local rink. She lives a pretty average life, she has her job, her loving family and her long distance boyfriend of three years. (Who you’ll soon learn to hate) 👀
However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Rodriguez, a persistent hockey player who is determined to win her heart.🏒⛸️ Despite her initial reluctance, Rodriguez's relentless charm and unwavering confidence gradually break down Juliette's defenses. ❤️🔥 Dude does not understand the word no!! Especially when it comes to serving golden retriever energy to the ice queen 🧊👸🏼
Rodriguez is the definition of he falls first and never gets up!!😍😍
This new friendship?? romance?? situationship?? takes a playful twist when Rodriguez agrees to fake date during Juliette's sister's wedding. 👀The setup leads to a series of humorous and heartwarming moments involving Juliette’s family but also tense and thrilling as problems arise with Juju’s ex.
And yes, we do get to see A LOT of Rodriguez’s protective side🤤🤤
As they spend more time together, the lines between fantasy and reality begin to blur, and both characters discover deeper feelings for each other.❤️
POSITIVES:
Trisha skillfully combines hockey and figure skating, family dynamics, a jealous, problematic ex, and the journey of romance, making this book an engaging read I couldn’t put down!!✨✨
The chemistry between Juliette and Rodriguez is palpable, and their growth as a couple is beautifully portrayed through Rodriguez acts of love and their pure devotion to each other. 💕
I highly recommend this book to all romance lovers, a long with the rest of the series which provides an equally warm, loving feeling!
⭐️Quote Of The Book⭐️
"𝐹𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐼 𝑠𝑎𝑤 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑠𝑘𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑎𝑙𝑜𝑛𝑒 𝑎𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑘, 𝑡𝑒𝑎𝑐ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑠𝑒 𝑘𝑖𝑑𝑠 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑚𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑝𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑦 𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑒𝑟𝑣𝑒𝑑, 𝐼 𝑤𝑎𝑠 𝑔𝑜𝑛𝑒. 𝐹𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑓𝑖𝑟𝑠𝑡 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑡𝑜𝑙𝑑 𝑚𝑒 𝑡𝑜 𝑏𝑎𝑠𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑦 𝑓𝑢𝑐𝑘 𝑜𝑓𝑓 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝐼 𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑑 𝑡𝑜 𝑡𝑎𝑙𝑘 𝑡𝑜 𝑦𝑜𝑢, 𝐼 𝑤𝑎𝑠 𝑔𝑜𝑛𝑒. 𝐸𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑛 ℎ𝑎𝑠 𝑗𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑏𝑒𝑒𝑛 𝑚𝑒 𝑓𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔 ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑑𝑒𝑟, 𝑑𝑒𝑒𝑝𝑒𝑟, 𝑢𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑙 𝐼 𝑐𝑎𝑛'𝑡 𝑟𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑤ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑖𝑡 𝑓𝑒𝑙𝑡 𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑦𝑜𝑢."
SUMMARY:
Star Crossed Skaters follows Juliette, a figure skater who teaches children at a local rink. She lives a pretty average life, she has her job, her loving family and her long distance boyfriend of three years. (Who you’ll soon learn to hate) 👀
However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Rodriguez, a persistent hockey player who is determined to win her heart.🏒⛸️ Despite her initial reluctance, Rodriguez's relentless charm and unwavering confidence gradually break down Juliette's defenses. ❤️🔥 Dude does not understand the word no!! Especially when it comes to serving golden retriever energy to the ice queen 🧊👸🏼
Rodriguez is the definition of he falls first and never gets up!!😍😍
This new friendship?? romance?? situationship?? takes a playful twist when Rodriguez agrees to fake date during Juliette's sister's wedding. 👀The setup leads to a series of humorous and heartwarming moments involving Juliette’s family but also tense and thrilling as problems arise with Juju’s ex.
And yes, we do get to see A LOT of Rodriguez’s protective side🤤🤤
As they spend more time together, the lines between fantasy and reality begin to blur, and both characters discover deeper feelings for each other.❤️
POSITIVES:
Trisha skillfully combines hockey and figure skating, family dynamics, a jealous, problematic ex, and the journey of romance, making this book an engaging read I couldn’t put down!!✨✨
The chemistry between Juliette and Rodriguez is palpable, and their growth as a couple is beautifully portrayed through Rodriguez acts of love and their pure devotion to each other. 💕
I highly recommend this book to all romance lovers, a long with the rest of the series which provides an equally warm, loving feeling!
⭐️Quote Of The Book⭐️
"𝐹𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐼 𝑠𝑎𝑤 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑠𝑘𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑎𝑙𝑜𝑛𝑒 𝑎𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑘, 𝑡𝑒𝑎𝑐ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑠𝑒 𝑘𝑖𝑑𝑠 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑚𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑝𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑦 𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑒𝑟𝑣𝑒𝑑, 𝐼 𝑤𝑎𝑠 𝑔𝑜𝑛𝑒. 𝐹𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑓𝑖𝑟𝑠𝑡 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑡𝑜𝑙𝑑 𝑚𝑒 𝑡𝑜 𝑏𝑎𝑠𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑦 𝑓𝑢𝑐𝑘 𝑜𝑓𝑓 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝐼 𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑑 𝑡𝑜 𝑡𝑎𝑙𝑘 𝑡𝑜 𝑦𝑜𝑢, 𝐼 𝑤𝑎𝑠 𝑔𝑜𝑛𝑒. 𝐸𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑛 ℎ𝑎𝑠 𝑗𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑏𝑒𝑒𝑛 𝑚𝑒 𝑓𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔 ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑑𝑒𝑟, 𝑑𝑒𝑒𝑝𝑒𝑟, 𝑢𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑙 𝐼 𝑐𝑎𝑛'𝑡 𝑟𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑤ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑖𝑡 𝑓𝑒𝑙𝑡 𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑦𝑜𝑢."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I accidentally clicked that I was an ACR, but I’m a beta reader. I don’t know how to change that but nevermind😄
Just when I thought no one could possibly outdo Brody, who was definitely my favorite throughout the entire series, Rodriguez appeared and proved me wrong. Without any exaggeration, Rodriguez is book boyfriend number one, and it will be very hard for anyone else to top him. The way he actively takes care of Juju is everything. While reading the book, I thought several times that Juliette didn’t deserve him and wondered how she could be so cold toward him when he was trying to get to know her. In the end, I forgave her too :)
What I maybe missed a little in the book was a deeper background to Juliette’s stiffness. Okay, she’s probably just like that by nature, but at the beginning I got the impression that she became that way because of her parents’ attitude toward her. I had a prejudice against them, but in the end they turned out to be completely likable while reading the book, and I didn’t see a major problem in the way they treated her. I would just have liked that part to be described a bit differently or in more detail.
The rest of the book completely swept me off my feet. Finally, I have to mention how much I liked that their physical relationship didn’t happen too quickly or without much thought, but was built very slowly and gradually… a true slow burn :) Tisha, you write beautifully, and I’m eagerly looking forward to the next books.
Just when I thought no one could possibly outdo Brody, who was definitely my favorite throughout the entire series, Rodriguez appeared and proved me wrong. Without any exaggeration, Rodriguez is book boyfriend number one, and it will be very hard for anyone else to top him. The way he actively takes care of Juju is everything. While reading the book, I thought several times that Juliette didn’t deserve him and wondered how she could be so cold toward him when he was trying to get to know her. In the end, I forgave her too :)
What I maybe missed a little in the book was a deeper background to Juliette’s stiffness. Okay, she’s probably just like that by nature, but at the beginning I got the impression that she became that way because of her parents’ attitude toward her. I had a prejudice against them, but in the end they turned out to be completely likable while reading the book, and I didn’t see a major problem in the way they treated her. I would just have liked that part to be described a bit differently or in more detail.
The rest of the book completely swept me off my feet. Finally, I have to mention how much I liked that their physical relationship didn’t happen too quickly or without much thought, but was built very slowly and gradually… a true slow burn :) Tisha, you write beautifully, and I’m eagerly looking forward to the next books.
February 14, 2026
3.5⭐️
3🌶️
This was my first read of the Seattle Puckaneers series, and author Tisha Patrick.
Was the story a bit cliched? Yes. A bit fragmented? Yes. Did I throughly enjoy it? Also yes!
Rodriguez is a total golden retriever and you can’t help but love him. Juliette’s character is more complex but also very relatable. I loved seeing more of her personality come out through the book as her relationship with Rodriguez developed.
When I say the book is a bit fragmented, I mean that it seems to include some very distinct substories that all come together to tell the bigger story. Think like a season long sitcom… the whole season is telling a story arc, but it’s broken down into individual episodes that can also be self contained. I don’t think this was a bad thing - just different from many of the other novels I’ve read. (I actually appreciated that there were some times that felt like a good spot to break for the night!)
That being said, some of the “substories” seemed a bit unnecessary to the overarching story.
‼️ SPOILER WARNING ‼️
The conflict with Sienna felt a bit disjointed from the rest of the story. Perhaps I feel overly critical of this part because it led to the dreaded miscommunication third act breakup. I don’t think the addition necessarily hurt but it also didn’t add anything. To me, the approach Rodriguez took to this situation felt out of character from what we had seen earlier on.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and the chemistry between Rodriguez and Juliette. And the spice was 🔥! The book was a nice palate cleanser between dark romances, and delivered exactly what expected. I’ll be adding the rest of the series to my TBR. 😊
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
3🌶️
This was my first read of the Seattle Puckaneers series, and author Tisha Patrick.
Was the story a bit cliched? Yes. A bit fragmented? Yes. Did I throughly enjoy it? Also yes!
Rodriguez is a total golden retriever and you can’t help but love him. Juliette’s character is more complex but also very relatable. I loved seeing more of her personality come out through the book as her relationship with Rodriguez developed.
When I say the book is a bit fragmented, I mean that it seems to include some very distinct substories that all come together to tell the bigger story. Think like a season long sitcom… the whole season is telling a story arc, but it’s broken down into individual episodes that can also be self contained. I don’t think this was a bad thing - just different from many of the other novels I’ve read. (I actually appreciated that there were some times that felt like a good spot to break for the night!)
That being said, some of the “substories” seemed a bit unnecessary to the overarching story.
‼️ SPOILER WARNING ‼️
The conflict with Sienna felt a bit disjointed from the rest of the story. Perhaps I feel overly critical of this part because it led to the dreaded miscommunication third act breakup. I don’t think the addition necessarily hurt but it also didn’t add anything. To me, the approach Rodriguez took to this situation felt out of character from what we had seen earlier on.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and the chemistry between Rodriguez and Juliette. And the spice was 🔥! The book was a nice palate cleanser between dark romances, and delivered exactly what expected. I’ll be adding the rest of the series to my TBR. 😊
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 20, 2026
Star Crossed Skates by Tisha Patrick is a heartfelt hockey romance with all the tropes I love , fake dating, slow burn, and a hero who is completely gone from the start.
Rodriguez falls for Juliette the first time he sees her skating, but she keeps turning him down due to a long-distance relationship. When that relationship ended in heartbreak, just weeks before her boyfriend was meant to move to Seattle, she’s left devastated, especially after learning he’d been cheating.
Rodriguez never pushes, though. Instead, he shows up in the sweetest ways, bringing her coffee, building a friendship through texts and shared meals, and being a steady, comforting presence. When Juliette is forced to attend her sister’s wedding, where her ex is the best man, Rodriguez agrees to be her fake boyfriend. For him, it’s a chance he’s been waiting for.
Watching their friendship grow into something deeper was beautiful. Rodriguez is charming, warm, and completely devoted, a true golden retriever hero who treats Juliette like a queen. Their chemistry builds naturally, and the emotional payoff is so satisfying.
The hockey team dynamics and banter add so much heart and humour, and the Calgary setting gives the story an extra spark. Even the side characters, especially the coach, had standout moments that had me kicking my feet.
This is a heartfelt, swoony hockey romance with strong character development and a hero who will absolutely steal your heart. Rodriguez will not disappoint. 💛🏒
Rodriguez falls for Juliette the first time he sees her skating, but she keeps turning him down due to a long-distance relationship. When that relationship ended in heartbreak, just weeks before her boyfriend was meant to move to Seattle, she’s left devastated, especially after learning he’d been cheating.
Rodriguez never pushes, though. Instead, he shows up in the sweetest ways, bringing her coffee, building a friendship through texts and shared meals, and being a steady, comforting presence. When Juliette is forced to attend her sister’s wedding, where her ex is the best man, Rodriguez agrees to be her fake boyfriend. For him, it’s a chance he’s been waiting for.
Watching their friendship grow into something deeper was beautiful. Rodriguez is charming, warm, and completely devoted, a true golden retriever hero who treats Juliette like a queen. Their chemistry builds naturally, and the emotional payoff is so satisfying.
The hockey team dynamics and banter add so much heart and humour, and the Calgary setting gives the story an extra spark. Even the side characters, especially the coach, had standout moments that had me kicking my feet.
This is a heartfelt, swoony hockey romance with strong character development and a hero who will absolutely steal your heart. Rodriguez will not disappoint. 💛🏒
Review of advance copy
Juju and Roro – a match made in heaven.
Rodriguez is a driven hockey player, an extrovert and completely gone for the beautiful, reserved Juliette, a talented ice skater.
While he does everything in his power to gain her attention, she sidesteps all hi advances.
But when opportunity knocks, Rodriguez takes his chance to show Juliette his true self, his feelings and how determined he is to make her happy.
He loves fast, hard and loud and Juliette has her walls up to protect herself from heartache.
The story is a complete slow-burn, but its pace is perfect, the writing well done, the characters have depth and the spice is on point.
Star Crossed Skates is literally and Romeo and JulietTE romance, that you definitely need to read to understand it! Don’t worry… it has nothing to do with the Shakesperean tragic story.
Tisha Patrick gives us a beautiful romance about love at first sight, sacrifice, selflessness, support and the perfect book boyfriend to swoon over for.
The way the characters start of as friends, learn about each other and fall in love makes it real.
A story about a fake relationship that never felt fake, that is intense, pure and worth the risk.
Thank you for the ARC.
Rodriguez is a driven hockey player, an extrovert and completely gone for the beautiful, reserved Juliette, a talented ice skater.
While he does everything in his power to gain her attention, she sidesteps all hi advances.
But when opportunity knocks, Rodriguez takes his chance to show Juliette his true self, his feelings and how determined he is to make her happy.
He loves fast, hard and loud and Juliette has her walls up to protect herself from heartache.
The story is a complete slow-burn, but its pace is perfect, the writing well done, the characters have depth and the spice is on point.
Star Crossed Skates is literally and Romeo and JulietTE romance, that you definitely need to read to understand it! Don’t worry… it has nothing to do with the Shakesperean tragic story.
Tisha Patrick gives us a beautiful romance about love at first sight, sacrifice, selflessness, support and the perfect book boyfriend to swoon over for.
The way the characters start of as friends, learn about each other and fall in love makes it real.
A story about a fake relationship that never felt fake, that is intense, pure and worth the risk.
Thank you for the ARC.
February 14, 2026
I recieved this beautiful book, even arc form, this storyline is just a beautifully written cleansing palette. As, I’m currently in my dark romance/thriller era. But this was a nice change..
I loved how the author introduced the characters almost like a “hallmark movie.” The MMC just reminds me of a fluffy tall golden retriever, that swoons on it and gets the girl. This story follows the MFC which is an ice figure skater, that reminds me of myself. Her character seems to be a strong independent young lady, that is focused on her dreams don’t want to be bothered with boys, but when Rodriguez comes in he changes Juliette’s mind and heart and soul on love. Rod, is your everyday “Mr. Mcdreamy” oh la la la, the chemistry between these two is hott. The sweet banter is every girl’s wet dream, this storyline just captured me from the start. This was a one of my favorite reads in 2026. This is one of my first by Tisha Patrick & won’t be my LAST.
So here is my rating
5✨character building/storyline plot
5✨🥵🌶️like I said these two kept me invested in the story.
Tisha thank you kindly for trusting me in reading this gem! Happy Reading, go get your copy now 2/14/26 she is released in the wild on the best day ever Valentine’s Day the day of love💕
I loved how the author introduced the characters almost like a “hallmark movie.” The MMC just reminds me of a fluffy tall golden retriever, that swoons on it and gets the girl. This story follows the MFC which is an ice figure skater, that reminds me of myself. Her character seems to be a strong independent young lady, that is focused on her dreams don’t want to be bothered with boys, but when Rodriguez comes in he changes Juliette’s mind and heart and soul on love. Rod, is your everyday “Mr. Mcdreamy” oh la la la, the chemistry between these two is hott. The sweet banter is every girl’s wet dream, this storyline just captured me from the start. This was a one of my favorite reads in 2026. This is one of my first by Tisha Patrick & won’t be my LAST.
So here is my rating
5✨character building/storyline plot
5✨🥵🌶️like I said these two kept me invested in the story.
Tisha thank you kindly for trusting me in reading this gem! Happy Reading, go get your copy now 2/14/26 she is released in the wild on the best day ever Valentine’s Day the day of love💕
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC
Holy 🔥. How is each book getting better?! Dex from book 2 was my favorite but he’s been bumped down for Rodriguez.
These two have the golden retriever/black cat vibes we all love. Rodriguez was down bad for Juliette from his first time seeing her and our loveable golden retriever is all in. Juliette is a PT student, ex figure skater who uses the same facility as the hockey team and cannot be bothered with the annoying Rodriguez. But life throws some curve balls, her long distant boyfriend dumps her (amount another thing) and she needs a fake date to her sister wedding, where said ex is the best man. Rodriguez goes as her date and these two realize it’s not fake after all. Add in a fight & being detained on the wedding day = perfect.
Once they get back to Seattle, we get some ex drama from his ex (not really a huge deal- he would never cheat!) and playoff season.
I absolutely loved those two and cannot wait for the rest of the groups stories and getting to still see Roman, Dex, Brody and their wives.
Would I recommend this to a friend? Yes
Do I need a trophy? Yes. Already pre-ordered.
Holy 🔥. How is each book getting better?! Dex from book 2 was my favorite but he’s been bumped down for Rodriguez.
These two have the golden retriever/black cat vibes we all love. Rodriguez was down bad for Juliette from his first time seeing her and our loveable golden retriever is all in. Juliette is a PT student, ex figure skater who uses the same facility as the hockey team and cannot be bothered with the annoying Rodriguez. But life throws some curve balls, her long distant boyfriend dumps her (amount another thing) and she needs a fake date to her sister wedding, where said ex is the best man. Rodriguez goes as her date and these two realize it’s not fake after all. Add in a fight & being detained on the wedding day = perfect.
Once they get back to Seattle, we get some ex drama from his ex (not really a huge deal- he would never cheat!) and playoff season.
I absolutely loved those two and cannot wait for the rest of the groups stories and getting to still see Roman, Dex, Brody and their wives.
Would I recommend this to a friend? Yes
Do I need a trophy? Yes. Already pre-ordered.
February 11, 2026
✨ ARC Review ✨
This book was everything I hoped it would be and more!!
I was already in love with Rodriguez from the previous books and especially the teaser in book 3!
He really lived up to the expectations! Even as the funny and carefree character we know him to be, we got to see the caring and thoughtful side of him in this book.
Him and Juliette were perfect together. He brought out the happy and carefree side of her that she was hiding without even realising. All he wanted was for her to be happy and he did exactly that.
I love a man that gets shot down multiple times and on the last try it pays off enough to shock him!!
Honestly the whole story with the fake dating aspect was beautiful! I had so much fun reading this and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series!
This whole team is so so fun to read about especially the Pucks group chat! I love a team group chat!
Thank you to Tisha Patrick and Luna Literary Management for giving me the opportunity to read Star Crossed Skates as an advanced copy!
This book was everything I hoped it would be and more!!
I was already in love with Rodriguez from the previous books and especially the teaser in book 3!
He really lived up to the expectations! Even as the funny and carefree character we know him to be, we got to see the caring and thoughtful side of him in this book.
Him and Juliette were perfect together. He brought out the happy and carefree side of her that she was hiding without even realising. All he wanted was for her to be happy and he did exactly that.
I love a man that gets shot down multiple times and on the last try it pays off enough to shock him!!
Honestly the whole story with the fake dating aspect was beautiful! I had so much fun reading this and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series!
This whole team is so so fun to read about especially the Pucks group chat! I love a team group chat!
Thank you to Tisha Patrick and Luna Literary Management for giving me the opportunity to read Star Crossed Skates as an advanced copy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
*ARC REVIEW*
I was kindly given an ARC of Star Crossed Skates and this was so good! from the moment I started reading, I fell in love with Rodriguez!! he is a dream and I loved how serious and fascinated he was with Juliette. he understood her so well and they were so cute together! they were really right for each other, their banter was so good and they were sweet together, they understood each other so well. they’re both sweet and genuine people and I loved seeing their story play out, they felt so happy and comfortable with each other and it was amazing to see. the spice was so good, was obsessed and the boys group chat was hilarious! it was written well, such a sweet read and it was so wholesome (the concussion scene was so loving and funny!!) really enjoyed reading this, very interested in the next book! (thank you to Tisha Patrick and Luna Literary Management for the ARC, all opinions are my own)
Star Crossed Skates releases February 14!
4.25⭐
I was kindly given an ARC of Star Crossed Skates and this was so good! from the moment I started reading, I fell in love with Rodriguez!! he is a dream and I loved how serious and fascinated he was with Juliette. he understood her so well and they were so cute together! they were really right for each other, their banter was so good and they were sweet together, they understood each other so well. they’re both sweet and genuine people and I loved seeing their story play out, they felt so happy and comfortable with each other and it was amazing to see. the spice was so good, was obsessed and the boys group chat was hilarious! it was written well, such a sweet read and it was so wholesome (the concussion scene was so loving and funny!!) really enjoyed reading this, very interested in the next book! (thank you to Tisha Patrick and Luna Literary Management for the ARC, all opinions are my own)
Star Crossed Skates releases February 14!
4.25⭐
Review of advance copy
So good!
I loved how this story flowed, the amazing characters that you get to love plus the banter between all of the hockey players.
Rodriguez, hockey player for Seattle Puckaneers sees Juliette ice skating and is smitten.
She rebuffs him repeatedly until she doesn’t and they form a friendship.
While Rodriguez wants more he does not push her as she is recently single but when an opportunity presents he takes it and runs.
Well not quite runs, gets on a flight with her back to her home town, to her sister’s wedding where they fake a relationship.
But is it really fake when feelings are involved?
A lot more happens in the story to bring them together, but all is not smooth sailing.
Will they work through it and realise that they are perfect together?
This was a great storyline and I loved my time spent with Juliette and Rodriguez.
Looking forward to reading more stories in this series.
Thank you to Tisha Patrick and Luna Literary for the opportunity to read this book.
I loved how this story flowed, the amazing characters that you get to love plus the banter between all of the hockey players.
Rodriguez, hockey player for Seattle Puckaneers sees Juliette ice skating and is smitten.
She rebuffs him repeatedly until she doesn’t and they form a friendship.
While Rodriguez wants more he does not push her as she is recently single but when an opportunity presents he takes it and runs.
Well not quite runs, gets on a flight with her back to her home town, to her sister’s wedding where they fake a relationship.
But is it really fake when feelings are involved?
A lot more happens in the story to bring them together, but all is not smooth sailing.
Will they work through it and realise that they are perfect together?
This was a great storyline and I loved my time spent with Juliette and Rodriguez.
Looking forward to reading more stories in this series.
Thank you to Tisha Patrick and Luna Literary for the opportunity to read this book.
February 14, 2026
3.5⭐️
I honestly really enjoyed this books vibes for 3/4 of the book and it would have been an easy 4 if the last 1/4 didn’t happen. I was so excited to find out more about Rodriguez and Juliette’s story because I had been enjoying the little tidbits we’d gotten. They were so cute and I loved how much her family loved him and realized that he was the best person for her because he saw her as she was. I loved that he was honest with her when asked at the wedding and seemed to understand why she has trust issues.
The parts I didn’t like…the 3rd act break up. It seemed so out of character for him..and I wish it wouldn’t have happened. I think 2026 should be the year of no 3rd act breakups. Also some of the side stories that added drama just kind of disappeared. Where did Garrett go? What happened to S? Who knows. But honestly overall a fun read. Rodriguez for the most part is a top MMC.
Thank you Tisha Patrick and Luna Literary for the eARC.
I honestly really enjoyed this books vibes for 3/4 of the book and it would have been an easy 4 if the last 1/4 didn’t happen. I was so excited to find out more about Rodriguez and Juliette’s story because I had been enjoying the little tidbits we’d gotten. They were so cute and I loved how much her family loved him and realized that he was the best person for her because he saw her as she was. I loved that he was honest with her when asked at the wedding and seemed to understand why she has trust issues.
The parts I didn’t like…the 3rd act break up. It seemed so out of character for him..and I wish it wouldn’t have happened. I think 2026 should be the year of no 3rd act breakups. Also some of the side stories that added drama just kind of disappeared. Where did Garrett go? What happened to S? Who knows. But honestly overall a fun read. Rodriguez for the most part is a top MMC.
Thank you Tisha Patrick and Luna Literary for the eARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to read the arc for an honest reviews... let's go!!!
First I had been in a book slump all of Jan, this beautiful piece of literature graced my inbox. I downloaded my copy and started. And wow that the journey begin.
While We have our serious and reserved girlie (figure skater), we have a very confident and extroverted dude (Hockey player). Our dude fall first and goes for it. She's not sure....life happens. Opportunity arises. Does it work?
Bad summary over. Now let's get to the feels: this book was beautifully written. I haven't read any of her others and this was the first book for me in the series. The writing flowed, the story continued to grow and build and didn't stall. As the reader you needed to find out WTF was gonna happen next. The journey the characters went on, the story that was built with them...incredible
First I had been in a book slump all of Jan, this beautiful piece of literature graced my inbox. I downloaded my copy and started. And wow that the journey begin.
While We have our serious and reserved girlie (figure skater), we have a very confident and extroverted dude (Hockey player). Our dude fall first and goes for it. She's not sure....life happens. Opportunity arises. Does it work?
Bad summary over. Now let's get to the feels: this book was beautifully written. I haven't read any of her others and this was the first book for me in the series. The writing flowed, the story continued to grow and build and didn't stall. As the reader you needed to find out WTF was gonna happen next. The journey the characters went on, the story that was built with them...incredible
Review of advance copy
Oh!!! Love discovering a book that opened you to a new author. And a great book it was. When I read a book I want to immerse myself into the story and fall in love with the MCs - and that’s exactly what I found here.
Rodriguez is so adorable and so committed to his feelings for Juliette. It’s really cute how he’s this golden retriever for her but the chemistry is so good!! And Juliette is not the ice queen she appears to be. Tisha Patrick lets her personality evolve and roll out as we go through the story. I loved that as much as she held Rodriguez to arm’s length at first that arm kept getting shorter.
There are so many cute moments in this book and oh lord the group team chat is a trip that you can’t miss out on. It was an easy read and I found myself unable to stop reading - which for me is the sign of a good book!!
Rodriguez is so adorable and so committed to his feelings for Juliette. It’s really cute how he’s this golden retriever for her but the chemistry is so good!! And Juliette is not the ice queen she appears to be. Tisha Patrick lets her personality evolve and roll out as we go through the story. I loved that as much as she held Rodriguez to arm’s length at first that arm kept getting shorter.
There are so many cute moments in this book and oh lord the group team chat is a trip that you can’t miss out on. It was an easy read and I found myself unable to stop reading - which for me is the sign of a good book!!
February 14, 2026
Star Crossed Skates is a sweet fake dating romance with a confident, golden retriever hockey player and an Ice Queen figure skater who is all about her routines.
Rodriguez is such a fun character. He has this fun, charming, playful side to him and from the moment he sees Juliette, he wants to know her better. But she shrugs him off with a firm “No.”
Juliette has been looking forward to her boyfriend moving to town in a few weeks until he breaks the news he isn’t moving. Now she has to face him at her sister’s wedding to his best friend. Until Rodriguez throws her a lifeline that he can attend as her date. He plans to use this time to change her mind about him.
The banter between them is pure gold! The chemistry undeniable. I haven’t read the other books in this series but definitely plan on going back and reading them.
Rodriguez is such a fun character. He has this fun, charming, playful side to him and from the moment he sees Juliette, he wants to know her better. But she shrugs him off with a firm “No.”
Juliette has been looking forward to her boyfriend moving to town in a few weeks until he breaks the news he isn’t moving. Now she has to face him at her sister’s wedding to his best friend. Until Rodriguez throws her a lifeline that he can attend as her date. He plans to use this time to change her mind about him.
The banter between them is pure gold! The chemistry undeniable. I haven’t read the other books in this series but definitely plan on going back and reading them.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was the first book I read of the author’s but it is the 4th in a series. Having not read the others yet, was not needed to make this a great Rom Com.
Charming Golden Retriever- (or Poodle) meets Ice Queen
Persistance
Enemies to friends to lovers
Fake dating
He falls first
He gives them nicknames and code words
These are just a few of the tropes in this hockey meets figure skater romance. I was laughing at the banter between these two the entire time. This man does not give up and does it all with a smile and confidence, until one day he changes his approach and just offers to be there as a friend when he sees that something is wrong. From that point things begin to change for both of them.
Charming Golden Retriever- (or Poodle) meets Ice Queen
Persistance
Enemies to friends to lovers
Fake dating
He falls first
He gives them nicknames and code words
These are just a few of the tropes in this hockey meets figure skater romance. I was laughing at the banter between these two the entire time. This man does not give up and does it all with a smile and confidence, until one day he changes his approach and just offers to be there as a friend when he sees that something is wrong. From that point things begin to change for both of them.
February 11, 2026
You know in general I don’t really knock much about Hockey or really any sports, but anything I learn is definitely from a romance book that’s for sure. 5 goals sounds pretty epic though. 😏 I think JuJu would agree. I do wish we had a little epilogue about them getting married, that would’ve been the icing on the cake for sure.
I really enjoyed this book, kind of a grump x sunshine. Ice Queen and Golden Retriever! He falls first, and I am a sucker for that 100% of the time. Their banter is so cute but he makes it meaningful. All the spice is open door/explicit. I also love that Valentine is mentioned and part of the story life since it releases on Valentine’s Day.
Also, screw Garrett and Melissa 🙄
I really enjoyed this book, kind of a grump x sunshine. Ice Queen and Golden Retriever! He falls first, and I am a sucker for that 100% of the time. Their banter is so cute but he makes it meaningful. All the spice is open door/explicit. I also love that Valentine is mentioned and part of the story life since it releases on Valentine’s Day.
Also, screw Garrett and Melissa 🙄
February 16, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️ star read
🌶🌶 spice level
Troupes:
- hockey romance
- hockey player/ ice skater
- fake dating
- 3rd act breakup
- HEA
I really loved the start of this book. I loved how quickly Rodriguez falls for Juilette. How there banter quickly devolps into more. When Juilette need help or a pick me up he Rodriguez was always there.
However the 3rd act break up part let me down. You pretty much are half way through this book alm is really good and then the reason behind the 3rd act break up happens, its completely iced over and fixed up. No talking about the fall out nothing. You really dont know what happens. So for me I found it lacked in that department for character building given the first half showed so much
🌶🌶 spice level
Troupes:
- hockey romance
- hockey player/ ice skater
- fake dating
- 3rd act breakup
- HEA
I really loved the start of this book. I loved how quickly Rodriguez falls for Juilette. How there banter quickly devolps into more. When Juilette need help or a pick me up he Rodriguez was always there.
However the 3rd act break up part let me down. You pretty much are half way through this book alm is really good and then the reason behind the 3rd act break up happens, its completely iced over and fixed up. No talking about the fall out nothing. You really dont know what happens. So for me I found it lacked in that department for character building given the first half showed so much
February 16, 2026
If you know me a little, you know how much I'm into hockey romances! I'm also a former figure skater, so this story hits the mark for me. I'm in a happy relationship, but damn, I think I fell in love with Rodriguez! He knows exactly what he wants (Juliette) and he is not afraid to do what it takes to get it. If it's love at first sight for him, it's a little more complicated for Juliette, who just got dumped (and cheated on) by her ex. They decide to fake a relationship so that Juliette doesn't have to go alone to her sister's wedding, where her ex is the best man. But that relationship never feels fake : it's beautiful, intense, and worth every risk. I LOVED IT. GO GET IT. NOW!
PS: I'm still thinking about the "5 goals" scene.
PS: I'm still thinking about the "5 goals" scene.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review - 3.5 stars
Release date - February 14th
Book 4 of the Seattle Puckaneers series focused on Romeo and Juliette, kind of poetic right. RoRo and JuJu, I loved the nicknames. Romeo, one of the Seattle Puckaneers most charming players has a chance encounter with figure skater Juliette. Fake dating, a wedding and some hockey matches.
I enjoyed there funny moments, the team chats had me cracking up at times. I enjoyed the chemistry and the community throughout. The tension with the ex's and the dynamics that ensued was interesting, I would have liked to see those tied off a bit more and not just disappear.
Release date - February 14th
Book 4 of the Seattle Puckaneers series focused on Romeo and Juliette, kind of poetic right. RoRo and JuJu, I loved the nicknames. Romeo, one of the Seattle Puckaneers most charming players has a chance encounter with figure skater Juliette. Fake dating, a wedding and some hockey matches.
I enjoyed there funny moments, the team chats had me cracking up at times. I enjoyed the chemistry and the community throughout. The tension with the ex's and the dynamics that ensued was interesting, I would have liked to see those tied off a bit more and not just disappear.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I basically devoured this book! This is my first time reading anything by Tisha Patrick, and even though it’s the fourth in the series, it works perfectly as a standalone. Her writing is amazing, and the story kept me hooked from start to finish.
The FMC’s growth was written so beautifully, and listen… the MMC, Rodriguez? Total golden retriever energy 🐶💛 Possessive, loyal, persistent, and absolutely adorable. You’ll get it once you read it!
Juliette was brutal at first, but I honestly loved her for it. If you’re in the mood for an easy, banter-filled hockey romance with laugh-out-loud (sometimes cringey) moments, this one is for you.
Such an easy 4⭐️ read for me!
The FMC’s growth was written so beautifully, and listen… the MMC, Rodriguez? Total golden retriever energy 🐶💛 Possessive, loyal, persistent, and absolutely adorable. You’ll get it once you read it!
Juliette was brutal at first, but I honestly loved her for it. If you’re in the mood for an easy, banter-filled hockey romance with laugh-out-loud (sometimes cringey) moments, this one is for you.
Such an easy 4⭐️ read for me!
February 15, 2026
Rodriquez is a hockey player who spots a beautiful ice skater named Juliette one day. He is determined to win her over despite her ignoring him. When she needs a fake boyfriend, will things stay fake?
I liked this one a lot! It started off kind of slow, but then picked up. Rodriquez was a great “fake” boyfriend. The group chat with the guys was hilarious. I also really enjoyed the banter between the two main characters. It’s the fourth in a series, but I did not feel lost.
The spice took a long time to appear, but once it did…it was niiiice. That bet? Priceless. These two were just fire together and I really liked it.
Overall, very solid hockey player romance.
I liked this one a lot! It started off kind of slow, but then picked up. Rodriquez was a great “fake” boyfriend. The group chat with the guys was hilarious. I also really enjoyed the banter between the two main characters. It’s the fourth in a series, but I did not feel lost.
The spice took a long time to appear, but once it did…it was niiiice. That bet? Priceless. These two were just fire together and I really liked it.
Overall, very solid hockey player romance.
February 19, 2026
I really liked this book. It had me gripped from the start.
I liked Juliette and Romeo’s characters and how well they complemented each other.
This book made me laugh at times and want to scream sometimes at the characters when you could see what was going to happen next.
The level of spice was just right but written well.
I think I would want a man like Romeo who remembers all the little things and goes that extra mile. (The perfect book boyfriend).
The other hockey players were funny and I can’t wait to read their stories.
I would recommend this book to others to read.
I was sent an ARC copy to give an honest review.
I’m so glad I was sent this book. Highly enjoyed it.
I liked Juliette and Romeo’s characters and how well they complemented each other.
This book made me laugh at times and want to scream sometimes at the characters when you could see what was going to happen next.
The level of spice was just right but written well.
I think I would want a man like Romeo who remembers all the little things and goes that extra mile. (The perfect book boyfriend).
The other hockey players were funny and I can’t wait to read their stories.
I would recommend this book to others to read.
I was sent an ARC copy to give an honest review.
I’m so glad I was sent this book. Highly enjoyed it.
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