Pucking Stepbrother, authored by Melinda Terranova, is a contemporary romance novel that explores the often taboo and exhilarating dynamic of step-sibling romance set against the backdrop of competitive ice hockey. The novel not only delves into the complexities of forbidden love but also effectively captures the high stakes and intensity of professional sports. As Melinda Terranova’s latest offering, this book promises to engage readers with its sharp characterizations and energetic narrative.

The story centers around Alexa Monroe, a young and ambitious sports therapist, and Jake Callahan, a rising star in the ice hockey world. Their worlds collide in a twist of fate when Alexa’s mother marries Jake’s father, making them step-siblings. From their first contentious meeting, the book sets up a fiery and problematic relationship between them, characterized by a mixture of intense attraction and societal taboos. The core of the plot wrestles with their internal conflicts and the external pressures from their new family ties and public scrutiny.

Terranova’s writing shines when she navigates the intricate emotional landscapes of her protagonists. Alexa, portrayed as both competent and compassionate, is a character many women can relate to. Her dedication to her career in a male-dominated field and her simultaneous vulnerability in her personal life create a multi-dimensional persona that is compelling and believable. Jake, on the other hand, with his bad-boy charm and underlying vulnerability, captures the quintessential romance hero trope but with enough depth to prevent him from becoming cliched. Their romance, fraught with obstacles, unfolds with a palpable tension and dramatic flair that keeps the reader invested.

The author also deserves praise for her depiction of the ice hockey scenes. The details about training sessions, games, and locker room dynamics are meticulously crafted, lending authenticity to the setting. For readers who are fans of sports romances, these sections of the book offer a gratifying glimpse into the world of professional ice hockey, which complements the romantic storyline. Terranova’s ability to integrate these two facets of the plot seamlessly is a testament to her skill as a storyteller.

However, the novel is not without its shortcomings. The theme of step-sibling romance might not sit well with all readers, and at times the narrative seems to struggle with justifying this relationship, swerving into defensive territory which can pull readers out of the story. Additionally, while the secondary characters are lively and add to the richness of the narrative, they occasionally border on stereotypical. For instance, the overprotective parent figure and the wise-cracking best friend are familiar fixtures that do not always escape predictability.

Structurally, the book maintains a brisk pace, which works well for maintaining tension and drama. Yet, some pivotal scenes, particularly towards the climax, feel slightly rushed. More space dedicated to the development of critical moments would have allowed for a more nuanced exploration of the characters’ emotional journeys. Nevertheless, the dialogue is sharp and often laced with humor, which effectively lightens the mood and balances the more intense themes explored in the narrative.

Fans of the author will appreciate Terranova’s signature style of blending heartfelt emotion with bold storytelling. Pucking Stepbrother is no exception. It captures the thrill and the angst of falling in love with someone who is off-limits, making the eventual payoff satisfying. The moral complexities of the plot are navigated with a careful consideration that adds depth to what could otherwise have been a typical romance narrative.

In conclusion, Pucking Stepbrother by Melinda Terranova is a bold and engaging read that offers both romance and drama, set against an exciting ice hockey backdrop. While it handles a controversial theme that might not be for everyone, it provides a compelling look at the trials and tribulations of forbidden love. The novel’s strengths lie in its dynamic main characters, well-rendered sports scenes, and spirited dialogue, making it a recommended read for those who enjoy their romance novels with a side of spice and sport.