Sierra Lewis's How to Puck Your Boss is a delightful foray into the world of professional hockey, romance, and the complexities of workplace dynamics. The novel deftly combines the thrill of sports with the intricate dance of forbidden romance, making it a compelling read for fans of both genres.

At the heart of the story is Penny Clark, a character who is both relatable and inspiring. As she steps into the daunting role of owning her father’s pro hockey team, Penny is determined to prove herself in a male-dominated industry. Her journey is not just about managing a team but also about navigating her own identity and reputation. The label of being “the crazy daughter” is a burden she carries, and Lewis does an excellent job of exploring how Penny grapples with this stigma. Her determination to succeed and her vulnerability make her a well-rounded and engaging protagonist.

Jack “The Saint” West, on the other hand, is a character who embodies the archetype of the disciplined athlete. His self-imposed rule of no relationships during the season speaks to his commitment to his career. However, his encounter with Penny challenges this rule, and the internal conflict that ensues is portrayed with nuance. Jack’s struggle between maintaining his professional integrity and acknowledging his growing feelings for Penny adds depth to his character. The chemistry between Penny and Jack is palpable, and Lewis captures the tension and attraction between them with skillful prose.

The theme of forbidden romance is central to the novel, and Lewis handles it with a deft touch. The stakes are high for both Penny and Jack, and the consequences of their relationship could be disastrous for their careers. This tension is a driving force in the narrative, keeping readers engaged as they root for the couple to find a way to be together. The exploration of power dynamics in the workplace adds an additional layer of complexity to their relationship, making it not just a personal dilemma but a professional one as well.

Lewis also excels in creating a vivid backdrop of the hockey world. The descriptions of the games, the locker room dynamics, and the pressures faced by the players add authenticity to the story. For readers who are fans of sports romances, this attention to detail will be particularly satisfying. The author’s ability to weave the excitement of the sport with the emotional journey of the characters is commendable.

In terms of character development, both Penny and Jack undergo significant growth throughout the novel. Penny’s journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment. As she navigates the challenges of her new role, she learns to assert herself and embrace her identity. Jack, meanwhile, learns to balance his professional ambitions with his personal desires. Their individual growth is mirrored in the evolution of their relationship, which transitions from a forbidden attraction to a partnership built on mutual respect and understanding.

Comparatively, How to Puck Your Boss shares thematic similarities with other contemporary romances that explore workplace dynamics and forbidden love. Fans of authors like Helena Hunting, known for her Pucked series, will find a similar blend of humor, romance, and sports in Lewis’s work. However, Lewis distinguishes herself with her focus on the female protagonist’s journey in a male-dominated field, offering a fresh perspective on the genre.

The novel’s pacing is well-executed, with a balance of romantic tension, character development, and plot progression. Lewis’s writing style is engaging, with witty dialogue and vivid descriptions that bring the story to life. The emotional depth of the characters and the stakes of their relationship are conveyed with sincerity, making the reader invested in their journey.

Overall, How to Puck Your Boss is a captivating read that offers a perfect blend of romance, sports, and personal growth. Sierra Lewis has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that resonate long after the final page. For readers looking for a romance that challenges traditional gender roles and explores the complexities of love in the workplace, this novel is a must-read.

In conclusion, Sierra Lewis has delivered a story that is not only a romance but also an exploration of identity, ambition, and the courage to defy societal expectations. How to Puck Your Boss is a testament to the power of love to transcend boundaries and the importance of staying true to oneself, making it a standout addition to the contemporary romance genre.