🏒 rom-com  
🏒 sports romance  
🏒 hockey romance  
🏒 nanny/employer  
🏒 single guardian  
🏒 forced proximity  
🏒 found family  

Star: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: 🌶️ 

Delayed Penalty by Teagan Hunter is a delightful sports romance that mixes humor, heart, and a dash of hockey drama. It’s the perfect blend of a slow-burn romance and witty banter, centering around the blossoming relationship between a quirky woman and a hockey player who is determined to win both on and off the ice. 

The story follows Quinn, who’s had enough of the spotlight that comes with dating hockey players. After a rough breakup, she’s sworn off athletes, especially those involved in hockey. However, life has other plans when she meets Hayes, a charming and persistent hockey player who is determined to change her mind. His personality is a mix of irresistible charm and sincerity, making it hard for her to stick to her "no hockey players" rule. 

This book had me laughing out loud within the first few pages, and it only got funnier as it went on. But it’s not just about the humor; you also witness Hayes, Quinn, and Flora grow into better versions of themselves. 

Quinn is a mess, but in the most relatable way. She’s real—making mistakes, changing her mind, and still figuring out who she is and what she wants. She’s full of sass and sunshine, with a big heart that’s been overlooked by the people who should’ve cherished her. She was fiery and bold with Hayes, yet soft and nurturing with Flora. 

Hayes, on the other hand, is the perfect mix of cocky athlete, swoon-worthy uncle, and dirty-talking charmer. Watching him step into his role as Flora’s guardian was heartwarming, and seeing the three of them bond as a team made my heart melt. They were a little lost individually, but together they found the perfect fit, allowing each other to not just survive but truly thrive. 

The relationships in this book felt fresh and different. Not only did Quinn and Hayes have undeniable chemistry, but the bond between Quinn and Flora was instant and special. The tension between Quinn and Hayes was electric, building up until it was only a matter of time before they broke their own rules—along with shedding some clothes. 

It may not have been love at first sight in the traditional sense, but their hearts knew it from the start. They may not have been blood-related, but they were mother and daughter in every way that mattered. This bond also helped Flora and Hayes grow closer. The more Flora opened up, the more she won me over. She’s the definition of "heartwarming," with her sweet personality capable of softening even the hardest hearts. 

Teagan Hunter’s writing brings a fresh and funny take on the sports romance genre. The characters have great chemistry, with their interactions filled with playful banter and endearing moments. The hockey setting adds an exciting dynamic, especially for readers who enjoy sports-themed romances, but the real heart of the book lies in the characters’ growth and the emotional depth beneath the lighthearted exchanges. 

For fans of sports romances that balance humor with heartfelt moments, Delayed Penalty is a must-read. Teagan Hunter delivers a charming and enjoyable story that will leave readers cheering for this couple on and off the rink.