The Final Score by Lana Ferguson
on July 7, 2026
Genres: Fiction / Romance / Contemporary, Fiction / Romance / New Adult, Fiction / Romance / Sports
Pages: 384
Format: Audiobook, Paperback
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Jack Baker is on top of the world now that he’s back on the rink where he belongs. But the high comes crashing down when he reinjures his arm immediately following his return to the ice, and this time, he might never be able to play again. After a lifetime as the strong, happy hockey guy whose sister needed him, Jack is left questioning everything he knows about himself.
Abigail Thompson feels like she’s hit rock bottom. It’s only been a few months since the massive scandal that finally severed the cord between her and her narcissistic father. And now, in her last weeks of grad school, she’s been kicked out of her building with very short notice. The last thing she wants to do is ask her half-brother for help after what she’s put him through, but it’s looking like his best friend’s spare room might be her only choice.
Jack is flighty, flirty, and a little full of himself—all the things Abby’s learned to avoid in men. However, spending every day together breaks the ice between them, and she starts to realize that Jack might not be who he seems. It’s possible that maybe, just maybe, he might be struggling as much as she is. Soon, confiding in each other leads to falling into bed, and this fling will either play with their hearts—or score them the ultimate goal of love.
First off, Jack was a great character. He was the perfect mix of sarcastically funny and tooth rotting sweet. He’s the kind of guy I would want to shove up against a wall and kiss or cuddle on the couch with. He’s really the best of both worlds. OH and he has dimples. Abby was the more cynical in their dynamic, but her and Jack both had the same struggle of wanting their choices to be respected by their friends and family.
I also loved the trope. Brother’s best friend. But what makes it even funnier, is that Jack’s sister got together with his best friend in the previous book. So in a way it was like payback.
Now, let’s talk plot structure. Abby and Jack got together far too soon in my opinion. I didn’t feel like there was enough time to really build the tension and sexual frustration before they got together. I also wish that they didn’t keep their relationship a secret for so long. Besides that, the third act breakup worked well together with the resolution. I also liked the take on athletic injuries and how that affects you mentally as well as physically.
Ultimately, I had some issues with the overall plot structure, but Lana Ferguson’s writing definitely saved the day. Her writing is so easy to get lost in. It flows so well and has her signature charm that I adore so much. I had to rate 3.5 stars on this one. Was not one of my favorites by her, but was not disappointed that I read it.
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