Maya Nicole's Hooked On Them is a delightful foray into the world of romantic comedy, set against the backdrop of the high-stakes, testosterone-fueled environment of the NHL. This standalone novel cleverly intertwines themes of love, career challenges, and personal growth, all while maintaining a light-hearted and spicy narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

The protagonist, a female coach in the NHL, is a refreshing character who defies traditional gender roles in sports. Her journey is both relatable and inspiring, as she navigates the complexities of her professional life while dealing with unexpected personal challenges. The book opens with a bang, literally, as a charity gala and a few too many glasses of champagne lead to a life-altering situation: a positive pregnancy test with not one, but two potential fathers. This premise sets the stage for a rollercoaster of emotions and decisions that are both humorous and heartfelt.

Nicole does an excellent job of developing her characters, particularly the protagonist. Her internal struggles and external challenges are portrayed with authenticity, making her a character that readers can root for. Her interactions with the three men in her life are dynamic and layered, each bringing out different facets of her personality. The billionaire who buys into the hockey team adds a layer of intrigue and power dynamics, while the player who tests her patience provides comic relief and tension. The third man, the sweetest guy on the team, offers a sense of stability and warmth, volunteering to be her pretend boyfriend and the baby’s father. This trio of relationships forms the crux of the narrative, each contributing to the protagonist's growth and the story's progression.

One of the standout elements of Hooked On Them is its ability to balance humor with deeper themes. The book tackles issues such as gender roles in sports, the pressures of maintaining a professional image, and the complexities of modern relationships. Nicole's writing is sharp and witty, with dialogue that sparkles and situations that are both laugh-out-loud funny and poignantly real. The comedic elements are well-timed, providing levity without overshadowing the more serious undertones of the story.

The theme of unexpected pregnancy is handled with sensitivity and realism. While the situation is fraught with potential for drama, Nicole avoids melodrama, instead focusing on the protagonist's journey towards acceptance and empowerment. The book also touches on themes of loss and healing, with references to the protagonist’s mother’s passing and the verbal abuse one of the men faces from his father. These elements add depth to the narrative, providing a counterbalance to the lighter, comedic moments.

In terms of romantic comedy, Hooked On Them stands out for its unique setting and strong female lead. It shares similarities with other works in the genre, such as Helena Hunting's Pucked series, which also explores romance in the world of hockey. However, Nicole's novel distinguishes itself with its focus on a female coach, offering a fresh perspective and a narrative that challenges traditional gender dynamics in sports.

The book's pacing is brisk, with each chapter propelling the story forward. Nicole's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy for readers to become immersed in the protagonist's world. The romantic elements are well-developed, with chemistry that sizzles and relationships that evolve naturally over the course of the story. The resolution is satisfying, tying up loose ends while leaving room for the characters to continue growing beyond the pages of the book.

Overall, Hooked On Them is a charming and entertaining read that will appeal to fans of romantic comedies and sports romances alike. Maya Nicole has crafted a story that is both fun and meaningful, with characters that resonate and a plot that keeps readers hooked until the very end. Whether you're a fan of hockey or simply enjoy a good love story, this book is sure to score a hat trick in your heart.