A review by admya
Empty Net by Teagan Hunter

4.0

💍 Fake Engagement 
🥅 Sports Romance 
🧁 Cinnamon Roll Hero 
👩‍💼 Headstrong Heroine 
👫 Forced Proximity 
😂 Banter & Group Chats 
🏡 Found Family 
🔥 Slow-Burn Steam 
💘 Friends to Lovers Vibes 
📱 Team Text Thread 
🎯 Opposites Attract 
💞 Guaranteed HEA 

Star: ⭐⭐⭐⭐️ 

Teagan Hunter delivers another charming, character-driven romance in Empty Net, the fourth standalone in her Seattle Serpents hockey series. This time, the spotlight is on the team’s endearing goalie—a cinnamon roll of a hero whose quiet strength and steady heart bring depth to this fun, fast-paced romantic comedy. 

The story kicks off with a well-loved trope: fake dating. When Lilah Maddison blurts out to her meddling mother that she's already seeing someone, our hero steps in to play the part of doting boyfriend. But one white lie leads to another, and soon, the two are fake-engaged. The setup is delightfully chaotic, but what makes the book shine is the warmth and emotional nuance woven throughout. 

Lilah is a standout female lead—intelligent, confident, and unafraid to take charge. Her chemistry with the goalie is instant and electric, but it’s the slow build of emotional connection that gives the romance its heart. Watching them navigate family expectations, career ambitions, and their evolving feelings makes for a thoroughly satisfying journey. 

Hunter’s writing is sharp, witty, and filled with humour. The dynamic between teammates adds a playful, found-family element that balances the romance beautifully. Group chats, locker room banter, and heartfelt moments between friends provide both laughs and warmth, further grounding the story in a realistic and relatable world. 

While the plot follows a familiar formula, it’s executed with charm and polish. The pacing is tight, the dialogue sparkles, and the intimate scenes are handled with care and sizzle. Most importantly, the relationship feels genuine—rooted in mutual respect, attraction, and a shared vulnerability that grows as the stakes rise.