Falling for my childhood best friend was never the plan. Especially when I’m the one responsible for keeping his hockey star image spotless.
Once upon a time, Zach Nelson was my neighbor. The boy who teased me about my science fair disasters, taught me to skate and made me believe he’d always be around.
When he moved away, we still checked in now and then, but life pulled us in different directions.
Now he’s the team’s star forward, and I’m the PR specialist tasked with protecting his reputation.
There’s only one ironclad rule: no dating players. Simple enough… except fate keeps throwing us together.
Side-by-side hotel rooms. Late-night banter that feels too familiar. Stolen glances that remind me he’s not just a flirt—he’s the boy who once knew every secret I had.
Somewhere between the teasing, the memories, and his smile, I fall for him.
Now I am at a crossroads.
One costs me my career. The other costs me my heart.
But what if there’s a way to keep both?
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Sexual Content - 1/5
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Violence - 0/5
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Language - 0/5
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Drugs and Alcohol - 0/5
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Summary
The Off-Limits Hockey Star by Gianna Ward is a wonderful example of how a swoon-worthy sports romance can shine without explicit heat. This sweet friends-to-lovers story delivers powerful chemistry, emotional depth, and plenty of tension—all with closed-door romance.
Jessica and Zach absolutely sizzle together. Ward does a fantastic job of creating moments where the chemistry is felt rather than shown, especially through subtle glances and charged scenes during Zach’s hockey games. The forbidden nature of their relationship and what’s at stake only heighten the emotional pull.
The contract scenes—where Jessica is required to sign and later amend terms—were particularly heartbreaking and added real weight to the story. Zach was a standout hero: respectful of Jessica’s boundaries and obligations, yet open and patient about his feelings. His willingness to wait until she was ready made their romance even more meaningful.
I also loved the side character who regularly offered wisdom and guidance, adding warmth and perspective to the story.
This book proves that authors can create deeply romantic, emotionally rich hockey stories without explicit scenes. A charming, chemistry-filled read perfect for fans of sweet sports romance and opposites-attract dynamics.
Reviewed by Donna