“Pucking Sweet” by Emily Rath is the third installment in the Jacksonville Rays hockey romance series. This MMF (male-male-female) sports romance dives into the dynamic between Poppy, a PR professional, and two hockey players, Lukas and Colton. The novel explores the intricacies of their polyamorous relationship, set against the backdrop of professional hockey. Rath’s storytelling combines elements of humor, intense chemistry, and emotional depth, making it a standout in the sports romance genre.
Plot Overview: Beyond the Rink
The story follows Poppy St. James, who lands her dream job as the Director of Public Relations for the Jacksonville Rays, an NHL expansion team. Tasked with managing the team’s image, she quickly finds herself entangled with two of the team’s star players, Lukas and Colton. The novel navigates the complexities of their growing relationship, blending the high-stakes world of professional hockey with the challenges and joys of a polyamorous romance.
Character Development: Strong, Relatable Leads
One of the highlights of “Pucking Sweet” is the well-developed characters. Rath carefully portrays the leads as complex individuals, each with their insecurities, strengths, and flaws. Poppy is a confident and ambitious woman trying to maintain her professional life while navigating her emotions. Lukas and Colton, both charismatic and compelling, bring depth to the story by highlighting different aspects of vulnerability and desire. The evolution of their relationship from friendship to a deeper, more intimate connection is handled with care and realism, making it relatable for readers who may be new to this type of relationship dynamic.
Themes: Love, Trust, and Balance
The central theme of “Pucking Sweet” revolves around love, trust, and the balance of maintaining a healthy relationship. Unlike many mainstream romances, the book doesn’t shy away from exploring polyamory, showing both the joys and challenges that come with it. Rath explores issues like jealousy, communication, and the need for honesty, offering a realistic portrayal of how non-traditional relationships function. This adds an extra layer of depth to the narrative, making it more than just a steamy read.
Writing Style: Engaging and Accessible
Rath’s writing style is accessible and engaging, with a good balance of humor and emotional depth. She manages to keep the narrative flowing smoothly, blending playful banter with moments of introspection. The steamy scenes are intense yet meaningful, driving the story forward rather than just serving as filler. Rath’s skill in weaving humor into serious moments makes the book a lighthearted yet impactful read, appealing to fans who enjoy a mix of romance and drama.
Strengths: Authenticity and Atmosphere
One of the book’s strengths is its authentic depiction of the sports environment. Rath brings the world of hockey to life, from the locker room banter to the PR challenges, which adds an element of realism that sports romance fans will appreciate. The dynamics between the characters are believable, and the progression of their relationship feels natural rather than forced, which can be a challenge in romance novels with multiple partners. Furthermore, Rath’s willingness to address issues of trust and jealousy head-on sets this book apart from other sports romances that may gloss over these complexities.
Critiques: Familiar Tropes with a Twist
While “Pucking Sweet” delivers a fresh take on familiar tropes, it doesn’t completely break new ground in the romance genre. Some readers may find the narrative predictable, especially if they are accustomed to sports romances. However, Rath’s execution makes up for this, as she handles the tropes with flair and genuine emotion. Additionally, the book’s emphasis on open communication and consent within a polyamorous relationship might be new to some readers, offering a refreshing perspective that isn’t often explored in mainstream romance.
Conclusion: A Must-Read for Romance Fans
Overall, “Pucking Sweet” is a delightful read for anyone who enjoys sports romances with a twist. It combines a steamy love story with well-rounded characters, humor, and a touch of drama. Rath’s approach to handling non-traditional relationships with sensitivity and realism makes this book stand out in the genre. Whether you’re a fan of hockey or just looking for a refreshing take on romance, “Pucking Sweet” delivers on all fronts, making it a worthy addition to your reading list.
