Alisa Jean’s Lincoln, the first installment in the Los Angeles Quakes Hockey Series, delivers an engaging blend of sports drama and forbidden romance. The story follows 36-year-old NHL player Lincoln, a seasoned goalie facing the harsh realities of an aging athlete. Plagued by a lingering hip injury, his recent performance has faltered, leaving his future with the Quakes uncertain. The roaring crowd isn’t chanting his name in celebration anymore, and whispers of a trade loom large. Amid this uncertainty, an unexpected romance blossoms with Catherine, the poised and ambitious daughter of the team’s owner—and its potential future leader. Their relationship brings newfound energy to Lincoln’s game, but when Catherine takes over as the league’s first female owner, their love faces unprecedented scrutiny.

Jean’s portrayal of Lincoln and Catherine’s love story strikes a compelling balance between passion and realism. Their relationship grows in the shadow of professional pressures, societal judgment, and personal ambitions. The stakes feel real, especially as Catherine navigates the challenges of owning an NHL team while protecting her reputation in a traditionally male-dominated world. Lincoln’s struggle to reconcile his declining career with his desire for love and redemption adds depth to his character, making him relatable and deeply human. Their love story is fiery, tender, and complicated but always captivating.

Hockey serves as the backdrop for the romance, and Jean’s accurate use of hockey jargon adds authenticity to the narrative. Even for readers unfamiliar with the sport, her writing remains accessible and immersive, seamlessly blending the high-stakes action on the ice with the emotional drama off of it. The pacing is brisk, keeping readers hooked as Lincoln and Catherine face not only the challenges of their relationship but also betrayal, greed, and shifting allegiances. These elements enrich the story, transforming it into more than just a sports romance.

Lincoln is a fast-paced and emotionally charged novel that explores themes of love, resilience, and identity. It’s a story with a satisfying ending that leaves readers hopeful. Fans of sports romance, especially those drawn to stories with a hint of angst and plenty of chemistry, will find this book a thrilling ride.

Pages: 248 | ASIN: B0DQYF14H5