Video review — tap to play
In The Game: A Secret Baby Hockey Romance (Lakes Hockey Series Book 3)
Raleigh Growing up, the ice was my safe space. I excelled at hockey. However, these days, it's hockey players who provide sanctuary--one bed at a time. We have an arrangement: I give them a night of pleasure, and in return,…
- Release Date
- 2026
We may earn a commission if you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Our Review
About the book
In the third Lakes Hockey novel, Raleigh keeps her flings with Minnesota Lakes players strictly temporary until a one-night stand with Barrett leaves her with a complication she never planned for. Five years later, Barrett crosses paths with her again and meets the four-year-old son who looks just like him.
Our review
A secret-baby hockey romance with a likable heroine and a hero who has a lot of making up to do.
Raleigh is the draw. She’s blunt, guarded and funny, and her fierce protectiveness of her son gives the book an emotional center beyond the romance. The early scenes of Barrett discovering what he missed are affecting, and St. James lets him be awkward and humbled rather than instantly perfect. Her young son is written with enough personality that the family scenes feel warm rather than decorative, which is no small feat in this subgenre.
The time jump does create a problem: Barrett has five missing years to answer for, and some readers will find his redemption arc too quick. The secret-baby premise also invites the usual frustrations of withheld information and conversations postponed for drama. It could also stand to lose a few chapters. Still, readers who enjoy second-chance stories with a family focus and plenty of heat will find a lot to enjoy.
What we loved
- Raleigh’s sharp, guarded voice
- Tender family scenes with a well-drawn child character
- Barrett’s humbling, believable early reckoning
Keep in mind
- The hero’s redemption may feel rushed given his past behavior
- Runs long for its premise
Read it if you like
Fans of Elle Kennedy’s The Score, Rachel Reid’s Game Changers, or second-chance and secret-baby romances.
The verdict
A warm, steamy second-chance story with a strong heroine, held back by a hero who’s forgiven a little too easily.
