The last thing Thad Racine needs is to fall for a guy playing for his brother's hockey team ...
As an ex-con, Thad’s had a rough life. Getting a job in the social media department of the Boston Harriers is his last-ditch effort at a fresh start.
He may not be raking in money like his previously estranged twin—the team’s GM—but he finally has a career he likes, a regular paycheck, and some stability. There’s only one catch: if he screws around with anyone working for the Harriers, he’ll be fired.
The last thing he expects is to fall for Graham Pennington.
The golden boy. The high-scoring forward who’s a crucial part of the team. The assistant captain.
Oh yeah, and he’s straight.
Falling in love with his GM’s brother isn’t part of Graham’s five-year plan.
Graham knows what he wants: find love and help lead his team to a Stanley Cup win.
So why do none of his relationships with women ever seem to work out?
After a totally unexpected but sizzling kiss with his friend Thad, he’s confused and a little conflicted. Has he been looking for love in all the wrong places?
Graham’s desire to be with Thad wars with his goal of helping the team find success. Despite Thad’s growing feelings, he’s terrified to risk his new career or the relationship he’s slowly rebuilding with his brother.
When the pressure from their secrets threatens their carefully laid plans, will they be ready to risk everything for love?
Listen to a sample:
Content Warning
This audiobook contains contains discussions of prison and the prison system, including the impact it has on racial minorities.
Scenes featuring emotional abandonment by parental figures and homophobia (no on page slurs).
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Updated review 5/18/26, 4–>5 ⭐️ for audio book!
Delayed Penalty, Scoring Chances Series book 4, by Brigham Vaughn is a great read AND a great listen. We've been waiting for Thad's redemption arc since we met him in book 2, which features his brother, Gavin, GM of the Boston Harriers (a fictitious pro ice hockey team.) Meanwhile, Graham, who has been the good-boy assistant captain of the Harriers is trying to figure himself out. Think serious type-A, driven, hard-on-himself, but sweet as can be. Thing is, he can't keep up the façade anymore, and his friendship with Thad has potential that even he can't ignore. Thad and Graham have tension to burn, and a good relationship already in place, but circumstances will push them to figure out whether they have what it takes to be more.
James Edward Jones is, as ever, a fabulous voice actor and he lifts the book to five stars for me.
Audiobook Review:
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 5
I loved listening to this audiobook! I knew when I read this with my eyes that the only thing that would make me love it more would be to listen to the audiobook. James Edward Jones did another wonderful job performing this story. My original review of the ebook is shown below.
*•.¸♡ 𝟓 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬 ♡¸.•*
I’ve been enjoying this series so much and when Thad was introduced, I was intrigued to learn more about him. His relationship with his brother Gavin isn’t straight forward and we learn more about how that came to be and why Thad did what he did (no spoilers).
Graham and Thad start out as just good friends; Graham is dating women and goes through a couple of girlfriends during the time that he begins hanging out with Thad. I love a good slow-burn romance and things simmer and then sizzle between Graham and Thad while Graham struggles with the feelings he’s having for Thad. There is a significant age-gap between the two of them but it’s not beat to death (I’m not a fan of those kinds of age-gap stories) and it’s of no concern to Graham.
This was a nice and meaty story coming in at around 116,00 words but I never felt like it dragged anywhere. The special appearance by Noah Boucher (from Bending the Rules) and his husband was really nice. I also enjoyed the teasing of the next book (for Luke Crawford and the fan who chirps him) and I can’t wait to read it!
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
I’m so happy!!! This is exactly what I wanted for Thad. He deserved a proper apology for everything he went through.
He ended up being the best of them all. He had such a pure heart that only hardened due to his time in prison. He had all the right to be upset at his family, especially his brother.
And even still, he never stopped trying to protect him. He deserved to get his own HEA and who better than with Graham. He was the only person who never judged him for his mistakes and saw the real Thad.
I loved that Thad finally got the recognition he deserved. He redeemed himself for something he never should’ve had to atone for in the first place. I’m just glad he got the happiness he worked so hard for.
I have enjoyed this series so much. I have loved all the couples, but Thad and Graham are my favorites. I hope there’s more to come because I need Crawford and the obnoxious vintage jersey guy🤣
🎧audio review
A good read telling the story of the ex-con and the bi-awaking of a hockey player. The connection between these characters is strong from the start but they are slow to react to those feelings.
This story is full of prejudice, family challenges and self discovery.
The emotion an richness that James Edward Jones adds so much more to the story . Thad Racine the twin brother of Gavin Racine of the GM of the Boston Harriers an NHL Hockey team bullies his way into a job in Social Media team. Thad gave up 10 years of his life to protect his twin Gavin. They both have a lot of guilt an trauma over thier own choices from that day when they were 18. Thad is slowly trying to rebuild his life back. Then suddenly NHL star Gramham Pennington makes Thad wish for more in life. No matter how attracted he is to Graham he doesnt beleive he has a chance with him. Plus he promised Gavin he wouldnt mess with anyone on his hockey team.
Graham Pennington has always done the right thing for everyone else but himself. He be friends Thad pretty soon as he comes to the team . The more they spend time together the more Graham wonders if hes not so straight. As Graham an Thad war within themselves for the attraction they feel. Thad promises Gavin he wouldnt an he doesnt want to disappoint Gavin but theres something drawing him to Graham..
Is Graham not so straight? Can they have more than just a platonic friendship? Pick up thier story to find out .. I promise you will not regret it!!
Thad works in Social Media for the Boston Harriers - the Pro hockey team where his twin brother is the GM. He likes and is good at the job. He's finally building a life for himself after many years of struggling to even get by. He cannot jeopardize that nor his relationship he's been slowing rebuilding with his brother. Then Graham happens.
Graham is a top player and assistant captain of the Harriers. He's focused on his job and his game. But after a steamy kiss with his friend Thad, he's completely thrown off kilter. Why at 26 would he suddenly be attracted to a man? So he backs off. Leaves town after the season and gets back together with his girlfriend.
When he gets back to Boston, Graham is stilted in his interactions with Thad. Their friendship is weird now. Graham isn't sure what to do, but he knows that he doesn't like it. His girlfriend asks what is wrong. Um, that's a loaded question.
Once Graham decides he wants to date Thad, he goes for it. But they have to keep in on the DL because of Gavin finds out - well they could both lose a lot. Graham is convinced they can keep it secret. Thad is very nervous. But they give it a go. And they more time they spend together, the more time they want to spend together. Despite some of Thad's issues that keep resurface as they are getting closer, Graham wants more. Like maybe he wants everything with this man who means more to him than anyone he's ever known.
I really enjoyed this story. Although part of Thad's story was told in a previous book in this series, this story really delves into this past. He is definitely dealing with a lot and his budding relationship with Graham brings up a lot of his past. I was so glad that he has been getting help from his therapist who seems like a great fit for him. His relationship with his brother is still a problem to some degree. Gavin is still a bit of a hothead and tends to jump to conclusions and assume the worst of Thad - unfairly. It takes Thad offering himself up again to take the punishment when Gavin's anger and assumptions run away with him. Thankfully cooler heads prevail.
I loved Graham so much! What a good guy. He takes his relationships seriously. He is confused about his feelings at first. He feels bad for acting on them. t takes him a while to figure himself out and when he finally does, he doesn't want to risk either his or Thad's job. The "secrecy" is fun for him, but it's killing Thad. It's one more secret that he's keeping that makes him feel bad about himself. Graham understands and when it comes to a head though, he's not going to let Thad take the hit. They are definitely each other's person :)
The supporting characters in this one are so good. I really loved Madison. What a great support she is for Graham. Also Graham's family were a hoot. Thad and Gavin's family? Not so much. The Harriers and the O'Sheas? Everyone has Graham's and Thad's and Gavin's backs. Gavin finally pulls his head out of his ass which is a welcome change :)
James Edward Jones just a fabulous job with this one. There are soooo many characters. I loved his performance - the call with Graham's family was hilarious! I so enjoyed getting to revisit so many of the characters from past books and series here too. The emotions were just so perfect here - lots of highs and lows. Another fantastic narration. Highly recommended.
Thad & Graham
"Jesus, was this what having a crush was like? It was honestly terrible."
Surprisingly, it took me a little while to really feel like I was getting into the story. I'm not sure exactly why, since I was excited to see how Thad & Graham's romance really developed and evolved. It was actually quite adorable to watch them fall for one another after being such good friends.
I really liked that we got to see a real dynamic shift between Thad & Gavin as they talk and work through their personal and shared issues. They've deserved to have the time to really clear the air since Gavin's story first introduced the details of their past. And throughout this story, Thad repeatedly proved how much of a great quality person he is and what he did for Gavin was completely out of love.
Most of any angst in this story lies with the twins, since once Graham accepted his previously confusing feelings for Thad, they only had a few mostly minor bumps along the way.
*Jesse's Halloween costume made me guffaw, and with a bit of a cough right now, it was quite a noisy to-do in my house when that happened. 😂
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review. (Dec 2025)
Audiobook Update (May 2026)
Narrated by James Edward Jones
What I loved the most about Thad & Graham's story in audio is how much more inner angst each character seemed to present because of the performance we're given. It doesn't matter how many times I hear an audiobook series completed by the same narrator, the best performers know how to give the characters a unique presence. Even the subtle differences between Thad's voice and how James also performs Gavin's voice were fun to pick up on. Although Gavin is definitely the gruffest character to be portrayed in this series. I do wonder if Luke will be similar-ish in his.
Graham actually felt almost softer via audio, although that's not a bad thing. It just gave him more depth and allowed me to feel more behind the tough choices he makes for himself in his evolving relationship with Thad.
Each of the stories in this series are very well performed in audio, and I loved the feelings that get further evoked throughout these sweet pairings.
*Not gonna lie, I had temporarily forgotten about the details of the Halloween party, and experiencing it all over again was just too fun.
I received an authorized copy of this story/audiobook and am volunteering my honest review.
I have to say I was very surprised by how much I enjoyed Thad and Graham’s story. I really didn’t like Thad when he first appeared. When the “kiss” happened I was very much against Graham being taken in by such a “player.”
I should not have worried bc Brigham always gives you the very best characters. Thad’s growth and vulnerability was just so sweet and endearing. Graham’s unwavering support of Thad was well-deserved.
I just love the world Brigham Vaughn has created. Acceptance. Tenderness. Masculinity. Femininity. Growth. Development. Fun. Angst. Family. Friends. All of it!!
Thad and Graham (an audio review)
I was intrigued by Thad when he showed up in book one of the series and Gavin was so clearly distressed by having his twin brother basically blackmail him into giving him a job. Or at least that’s how I saw it. But there are always two sides to a story and as Gavin revealed his truth to Dakota – his love interest in the book - things became a lot clearer about Thad. Suddenly I realized I wanted his story as well.
I only had to wait four books to get it!
Graham was a lesser-known figure for me. I knew he and Thad were friends, but I hadn’t connected how friendly they were. In this book, I got a true glimpse inside Graham – his goals, aspirations, and his inability to make a relationship work. Maybe because, until Thad, he hadn’t met the right person?
From friends to forbidden love was slow and gradual, but once the guys made the leap, they were all in. But deception’s tricky as both men are surrounded by friends and family who perceive them as a certain way. Not only would coming out as dating be disastrous for their careers, but it might potentially upend their relationships with their families. In the end, some of those fears are realized while others are not.
I knew they couldn’t stay a secret forever. Every good book deserves conflict and Brigham gave me that in spades. She also gave me redemption, healing, and a happily ever after.
James Edward Jones is a fantastic narrator and he did a great job with this book. I can’t wait to see what happens in the future as the next book has been well set up. Definitely enjoyed this one!
DELAYED PENALTY is the fourth book in the Scoring Chances series. I don't think this one should be read as a standalone. I think you would miss too much history with Thad and Gavin to fully embrace where they are throughout this one.
🏒Friends to Lovers
🏒Bi Awakening
🏒Forbidden Relationship
🏒Age Gap
🏒Golden Boy/Bad Boy
🏒Redemption Arc
Thad Racine is trying to put his life back together after spending ten years in prison. He's working for the Harriers after his brother reluctantly hired him with the understanding that if he screws around with anyone in the Harriers organization he'll be fired. He isn't about to risk it when he is finally feeling some stability in his life. Thad and Graham have been friends since Graham sat down with him in the hall when he just needed a minute. Graham was there and has been there ever since. Graham is straight, or so he thinks. Something about Thad draws Graham in. One of his goals is finding love what he never expects is it to be with a man. But once their relationship is defined Graham is all in.
The relationship between Thad and Graham was so explosive and sweet. Graham would do anything to make Thad happy but Thad was so jumpy given his prison past. I loved seeing them open up with each other and be vulnerable in ways that they could never with anyone else. I love this world Brigham Vaughn created and nothing makes me happier than visiting these characters again and again.
🎧Nothing is better than getting Thad and Graham in an audio book. As always James Edward Jones does an amazing job bringing life to these characters. Even though I know what is going to happen since I did read the book first. I still completely fall into the audio and lost myself in the story. So good!!🎧
Audio update. The book was good but the narration just gives it that extra umpf...I really enjoyed listening and felt like it just brought more to it .
I've been waiting on Thad's story and wasn't disappointed.
I love that Thad isn't... how do I put it... perfect. He has a big history, is an ex con and you do need to read this series in order for best understanding but at least his brother Gavin's book for sure.
I love how he is trying to rebuild a life but still makes a few not so great choices. I love a flawed MC. I also like Griff and love a gay for you or bi awakening. I liked how he just didnt suddenly say... oops I s I have a thing for Thad now I'm gay. I like how he fought it. Just feels more real.
Now grab the book and see if and how they get together and the road to it because tgere are several big pitfalls...like Griff's mother.
"So maybe I'm into it being a little forbidden."
Thank you, Brigham Vaughn & Neon Rainbow for my audiobook copy of the 4th Scoring Chances book Delayed Penalty narrated by James Edward Jones. This series focusing on the NHL team the Boston Harriers, it can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading the series in order. Actually, I recommend starting with the Rules of the Game series. Delayed Penalty featured nods and cameos from Brigham's previous hockey series.
Delayed Penalty focuses on Thad & Graham and their journey to a HEA. Thad is a bad boy who honestly broke my heart the more we got to know him both through his own POV & Graham’s. But don't worry not only do they get a HEA, readers get Jesse's halloween costume 😜. Delayed Penalty is full of heart, heat, hockey and healing.
🏒 Hockey
📸 Social Media
🏒 MM Romance
📸 Bad Boy
🏒 Golden Boy
📸 Redemption
🏒 Age Gap
📸 Forbidden
🏒 Awakening
📸 MM Romance
🏒 Dual POV
📸 Epilogue
My interest had been peaked about Thad. I was not sure how I felt about him and this book connected me to him and his situation. We learn he is a loyal man determined to fix his life. He does just that and it was lovely to witness. Graham is such a genuine sweetheart, and I felt for both of them after the awkward kiss. The moment felt so real and it was handled as such. I was all in for these two complimenting each other. Thad being older and rebuilding himself and Graham just being young and wonderful! Fabulous narration as always to bring these guys alive.
This is 100% a redemption story!
Great continuation of the Boston Harriers hockey storyline. Thad and Graham's friendship is legendary, and no one thinks it's anything more than that. Until... they each start feeling more, and it changes everything. One of my favorite parts about this whole series is the way that our author reaches back into the previous books, not just to give those characters cameo roles, but as a way of advancing their stories, too. It's especially poignant to see how the relationship with Thad and his twin brother (who is also his boss!) is transformed by the ways they have each found real love. Do you have to read the whole series - I suppose not, but why would you want to deprive yourself of the whole story arc? Highest recommendations - it's definitely a book I'll come back to again.
Listening to the book adds a whole new dimension to the story - no hurrying through to see what happens next. The narrator has such a depth of emotion in all of the characters, especially Thad and Graham. This is probably my favorite audiobook in the series. I'll definitely listen to this one again.
Story: Another great story in this series! Thad might be one of my favorite characters tbh. There's lots of complicated feelings, but the story is absolultely delicious!
Narration: Great performance! Perfectly amplified the feel of the story!
Regarding the story
I loved it!!!! I've been loving this series, and was looking forward to having Thad's book, and I was not disappointed, actually I think it's my favourite book so far. I couldn't put it down. I loved Graham, he's just so kind and patient and perfect for Thad, and I wanted to just hug Thad, who finally got what he deserved with Graham, they go so well together. I did not have enough of them!
This is the fourth book of the series, but can be read/listened as a standalone, even if you would miss on great previous books, and there is some more interconnection with Body check.
Regarding the audio: I loved the audio as well, James Edward Jones does a great job narrating the story and portraying both characters, adapting his voice accordingly.
I got an ALC and this is my honest review.
I just finished the audiobook for Delayed Penalty, and let me say that James Edward Jones nailed the narration. He did a great job bringing Thad and Graham to life. It touched me how you can feel the raw emotion in Thad’s voice, and Graham’s energy was spot on. Both if you’ve read the book or if you haven’t, this audiobook is definitely worth a listen.
Thank you, Brigham Vaughn for the free ALC. This is my honest review and recommendation.
I loved this book! I was so glad to get not only Thad and Graham’s story but we got the back story for Thad and his twin Gavin. This was a moving storyline and I love how Thad pulled himself up after the rocky start to early adulthood. The narration was spot on.
Delayed Penalty is the fourth book in the Scoring Chances series and can be read as a standalone.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I loved Thad and Graham’s story. It was honestly just what I needed in quite a difficult time.
Thad and Graham both won me over very quickly. Graham is so patient and kind, and Thad has been through so much, I loved him being so protective of Graham. One of things I think Brigham Vaughn excels at is creating characters who have such multifaceted depth to them; it makes them feel so relatable. The pace their relationship unfolded at felt realistic, believable and honoured their friendship as the foundation and heart of their budding love. I honestly loved their story, but don’t want to give anything away.
Holy hotness, their chemistry was a smouldering inferno. Can you tell that I really liked Thad and Graham?
What a great listen as well! I had such a lovely time listening to Thad and Graham’s complex and heartfelt story. James Edward Jones did a fantastic job as always, Thad and Graham sounded exactly as I was expecting.
Overall, this book is my third favourite in this series, after Connor & Jesse’s and Luke & Sebastian’s, it definitely had some great surprised and such a lovely tale of trust, vulnerability and learning to love (both themselves and someone else). This one has made me so excited for Luke and Sebastian’s audiobook!
This book contains scenes discussing prison and the prison system, and features emotional abandonment by parental figures.
🏒 MM Hockey romance
😍 Friends to lovers
📸 16 year age gap
😇 Golden boy / bad boy
❤️🩹 Redemption arc
🚫 Forbidden relationship
🌈 Bi awakening
Plot: 📚📚📚📚
Character rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sexiness: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Feels: 🖤🖤🖤🖤
Writing style: 🖊🖊🖊🖊🖊
Narration by James Edward Jones: 🌕🌕🌕🌕
