Poke Check
Series- Harrisburg Railers Book 4
Universe- Hockey Romance Universe Book 4
Author: RJ Scott and V.L. Locey
Publisher: Love Lane Book Limited
Pages: 186
Formats: Kindle
Rating: 5 stars
Up until now, goalie Stanislav “Stan” Lyamin has always been in the background, his lack of English a source of comedic relief, however at the same time coming across as a gentle giant that you know you want to get to know more.
At this point in the series, it could be said that authors could get tired or rest on their laurels but this wouldn’t apply here- after all how does one write a character that speaks little English without coming across as condescending or as a caricature?
That’s why on face value you would think that Poke Check could be either really good or really bad- the fourth book in a series to keep the reader engaged without being hockey.
There is a reason why this novel is- so far- my favourite in the series and I absolutely love Stan as one of my favourite all time characters in a novel.
We find Stan still in his goalie position, living life as a good goalie and best fiend to Tennant Rowe. As in any sport, trade of players and movements happen and soon we see Erik Gunnarsson arrive as a new linemate for the Railers- a huge shock to San as not too long go, they had a relationship at a hockey camp, but not for long as soon as the camp was over Erik “ghosted” Stan.
Not too surprisingly, Stan plays the role of a stoic Russian goalie; talking to his pipes and straight out refusing to speak to Erik or even give him the time of day. This position soon becomes untenable. for soon the team (lead by Tenannt of course!) stages an intervention!
Shortly after, the thawing of relations begins in more ways the none- and I guess it’s fair to say that little Noah, son of Erik, helps with that- we soon see Stan falling heads over heals in love again with Erik and Noah, wanting nothing but the best for them.
While this reads as yet another insta love or insta relove story, it doesn’t detract from the fact that the characterisation of Stan and Erik are amazing- Stan’s’ English doesn’t become magically perfect overnight, frankly if you ask me it becomes sort of worse!- but never in a bad way; its a trait of his and his inner monologue is in that same broken English that you come to expect. Instead Stan is developed as a genuinely good giant of a goalie, who cares both passionately and deeply. As for Erik- the Swede is another brilliant character with both flaws and other traits that you cant’ help but love him and little Noah.
I think i have to admit that this is one book that’s one of my all time favourite reads.