The Overtime Kiss (Love and Hockey #5) by Lauren Blakely Book Review: A Forbidden Romance That Scores in Overtime
- Joao Nsita
- Jun 29
- 9 min read
Introduction
What happens when a stolen kiss on the ice sparks a love that could cost everything? In The Overtime Kiss, the fifth installment of Lauren Blakely’s bestselling Love and Hockey series, readers are swept into a forbidden romance that pulses with playoff intensity and heart-melting passion. Blakely, a #1 New York Times bestselling author renowned for her witty and spicy rom-coms, delivers a story of teammates-turned-lovers navigating secrets and high stakes. Set against the gritty backdrop of professional hockey, this novel is a power play of emotion and chemistry that you won’t put down. For more irresistible romances, check out That Love Podcast.
Book Summary
The Overtime Kiss follows Sabrina, a dedicated PR manager for the Sea Dogs hockey team, and Tyler, a single-dad hockey star whose charm masks a guarded heart. When a spontaneous kiss during a playoff celebration ignites unexpected sparks, their professional boundaries crumble. As the team chases the Stanley Cup, Sabrina and Tyler must keep their romance under wraps to protect her career and his reputation. The novel weaves intense on-ice action with off-ice tension, from locker room secrets to late-night confessions. Blakely’s vibrant setting and layered characters create a story that’s equal parts heart-pounding and heartwarming, with a forbidden romance that keeps you rooting for their happily-ever-after.
Author’s Style and Craft
Lauren Blakely’s prose is like a perfectly timed slap shot—fast, precise, and exhilarating. In The Overtime Kiss, she employs a dual POV structure, alternating between Sabrina’s ambitious drive and Tyler’s tender vulnerability, which deepens their emotional stakes. The pacing mirrors a hockey game, with quick bursts of action balanced by quieter, introspective moments. Blakely’s dialogue crackles with wit, from Sabrina’s sassy retorts to Tyler’s flirty quips, making their chemistry palpable. Character development shines, particularly in Tyler’s evolution from a guarded player to a devoted partner. A standout line, “One kiss shouldn’t rewrite my rules, but you’re breaking every one,” captures Blakely’s knack for blending humor and heart.
Themes and Deeper Meaning
The Overtime Kiss explores themes of forbidden love, trust, and balancing ambition with vulnerability. The hockey rink serves as a metaphor for life’s high-stakes risks, where every play demands courage. Sabrina’s struggle to maintain professionalism while falling for Tyler reflects broader societal pressures on women in male-dominated fields, highlighting themes of gender dynamics and workplace boundaries. The novel also delves into chosen family, with Tyler’s bond with his daughter and teammates adding emotional depth. Blakely’s nuanced portrayal of trust—both in love and oneself—resonates universally, making the story a poignant reflection on the sacrifices and rewards of following your heart.
Strengths
Blakely’s ability to craft a vivid hockey world is a standout strength, with game scenes that pulse with adrenaline and locker room banter that feels authentic. Sabrina and Tyler’s chemistry is electric, particularly in moments like their clandestine equipment room encounter, which sizzles with tension. The supporting cast, including Tyler’s adorable daughter and the team’s gruff coach, adds warmth and humor, creating a found-family dynamic that enriches the narrative. Blakely’s balance of spice (3/5) and emotional depth ensures a gripping read, with Tyler’s devotion to Sabrina—calling her his “game-changer”—melting hearts. These elements make The Overtime Kiss a winning addition to the series.
Areas for Improvement
While The Overtime Kiss is a crowd-pleaser, it has minor flaws. The pacing slows slightly in the middle, with repetitive internal conflicts about their forbidden romance. Some readers may find the resolution of the no-fraternization policy overly convenient, lacking the complexity of earlier tensions. Secondary characters, like the team’s coach, could be fleshed out further to enhance the stakes. A deeper exploration of Sabrina’s career ambitions might add weight to her arc. These quibbles don’t detract from the novel’s charm but may affect readers seeking more intricate subplots or a grittier resolution.
Comparative Analysis
The Overtime Kiss shares the witty banter and sports romance vibe of Blakely’s The Boyfriend Goal (Amazon), but its forbidden romance trope sets it apart. Compared to Elle Kennedy’s The Deal (Amazon), it offers a lighter, more rom-com feel while retaining hockey’s intensity. It also echoes Hannah Grace’s Icebreaker (Amazon) with its steamy teammate dynamics, yet Blakely’s focus on workplace tension is unique. The novel challenges sports romance conventions by blending professional stakes with emotional depth, cementing Blakely’s place in the genre.
Target Audience
This novel is perfect for readers aged 18-35 who love sports romance, forbidden love stories, and witty rom-coms. Fans of Blakely, Elle Kennedy, or Hannah Grace will adore its steamy chemistry and hockey flair. The 3/5 spice level and themes of workplace dynamics make it suitable for mature readers, with content warnings for explicit scenes and mild emotional intensity. Whether you’re a hockey enthusiast or a sucker for slow-burn romance, The Overtime Kiss delivers a thrilling escape for romance lovers.
Personal Impact
The Overtime Kiss scored a goal straight to my heart, blending the thrill of a playoff game with the warmth of a love story. Sabrina’s ambition resonated with my own career drive, while Tyler’s devotion stirred nostalgia for unexpected connections. The novel’s mix of humor and heart left me smiling, pondering the risks we take for love. Blakely’s storytelling is a reminder that sometimes, breaking the rules leads to the ultimate victory. This is a must-read for anyone craving passion and play-by-play romance.
Conclusion
The Overtime Kiss is Lauren Blakely at her best—a steamy, heartfelt sports romance that skates effortlessly between humor and emotion. With its forbidden love, vivid hockey scenes, and unforgettable characters, this novel is a Stanley Cup-worthy read.
Grab your copy on Amazon and dive into a story that proves love is worth every penalty.
Like a perfect overtime goal, this romance lingers long after the final buzzer. For more swoon-worthy reads, visit That Love Podcast.
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About the Author
Lauren Blakely is a #1 New York Times bestselling author of over 100 contemporary romances, known for her sexy, witty, and feel-good style. Her Love and Hockey series, including The Boyfriend Goal and The Romance Line, has captivated readers with its spicy sports rom-coms. A California native, Blakely infuses her stories with humor and heart, often inspired by her love of dogs, cake, and show tunes. Her books have appeared in US Weekly and People, and she’s active on TikTok (@laurenblakelybooks). Visit laurenblakely.com, Goodreads, and Audible.
FAQ Section
What is The Overtime Kiss about?It’s a forbidden sports romance about PR manager Sabrina and single-dad hockey star Tyler, whose secret kiss sparks a risky love during a playoff run.
Is The Overtime Kiss a standalone?Yes, it’s an interconnected standalone in the Love and Hockey series, readable without prior books.
Who is the target audience?Readers 18-35 who enjoy sports romance, forbidden love, and witty rom-coms, especially fans of Blakely or Elle Kennedy.
How spicy is the novel?It has a 3/5 spice level, with explicit scenes suitable for mature readers.
What themes does the book explore?Forbidden love, trust, workplace dynamics, chosen family, and balancing ambition with vulnerability.
How does it compare to other Blakely books?It’s lighter than The Romance Line but shares the witty banter and hockey flair of The Boyfriend Goal.
Are there content warnings?Explicit content and mild emotional intensity may affect sensitive readers.
What makes Blakely’s writing unique?Her blend of humor, spicy romance, and authentic sports settings creates immersive, feel-good stories.
Where can I buy The Overtime Kiss?It’s available on Amazon in Kindle, paperback, and audiobook formats.
Is an adaptation planned?No announcements yet, but its cinematic hockey scenes make it a strong candidate.
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