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Review

4.5 “firefly” stars

Yes! This is the story that I wanted for Darren and Charlene!!!

As a long-time fan of the Pucked series, Darren and Charlene’s story intrigued me, but I admit that I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about them getting a full-length book. They aren’t my favourite characters and their relationship dynamic is ‘different’, but there was no way I wasn’t going to read this one, and I am happy to say that their story completely captured my heart, and I loved it! This is the story I wanted for them! This is what I wanted to see, and I was enthralled from start to finish as we finally get to know this secretive couple.

The mystery of Darren and Charlene’s relationship has been simmering away in the background of the series. They haven’t been a focus, but there have been hints of some kinky goings on, and a non-relationship sort of set up that seems to be mainly sex with a bit of a BDSM edge. Well, we knew nothing. Absolutely nothing. And as the truth of their relationship is revealed, I couldn’t get enough of their dynamic.

Without being spoilery, they have both have very difficult childhoods that have impacted on the who they are, and how they handle relationships and intimacy. It has led them to a somewhat unconventional relationship that, although solid, is also somewhat tentative. They have been together for two years and their passion for each other is as all-consuming as it was when they first met, it’s the emotional stuff that hasn’t really progressed, with neither of them really sure how to deal with it. This book is an exploration of that as they finally begin to explore their feelings and what it is they truly want, and everything begins to shift.

“It’s always going to be me and you, Charlene. Whatever you need, I’ll be that for you.”

The changes in their relationship are both helped and hindered along the way with some surprising family drama and the revelation of secrets from the past, forcing a new openness between Darren and Charlene. And the status of Darren’s career and his future in the NHL provides its own strain. All of the pressures combine to put them to the test, and it will take all the strength they have to deal with all they are faced with and find their way forward – truly together.

The feels are intense as they finally begin to let it all out, and I loved watching the changes to them, individually and as a couple, as they open up and show their sweet, emotional sides – Darren in particular – which was beautifully romantic and super swoony.

“I love you more than you can comprehend. I’ll give you anything you want, Charlene. Just stay with me. Let me love you like I’m supposed to. Let me be exactly what you need.”
“You already are.”

The rest of the Pucked crew are a big part of the story, of course, as all up in each other’s lives as they are. I loved seeing them take Darren and Charlene’s backs – the girls with their unique brand of support, and the absolute awesomeness that is the boys all offering Darren romantic advice. The scenes with them together are absolute gold! And there’s quite a bit of story progression for the other couples as well, and I loved seeing them living out their HEAs.

I loved this book. It was surprisingly sweet and emotional, while still maintaining the hilarity, crudeness and steam that make this series so much fun. Darren and Charlene’s story has been a long time coming, and it was definitely worth the wait to get to know these complex, vulnerable yet strong characters and see them get the happy ending they so desperately deserve.

Such a great read – 4.5 stars.

Note – the audio was really good, but if I never hear Sebastian York do a Scottish accent again, I will be very grateful! (poor Lance).

 

Pucked