The Comebacks Book 1: Gross Misconduct by AJ Truman

 

The Comebacks Book 1

As a high school hockey star, I was on track for greatness. Until an opponent attacked me on the ice, leaving me half blind.

For the past twenty-seven years, I’ve avoided hockey and its painful memories. But when my old teammates get back together to play in a local recreational league, I realize it could be a chance to rewrite history. The only person standing in my way is Jack Gross.

Hockey isn’t complete without a rivalry, and ours comes courtesy of the they’re younger, faster, and fronted by Jack, a former professional hockey player who hates my guts after a rooftop hookup gone wrong.

His cockiness and penchant for pranks make me hate him right back. But Jack has a special way of getting under my skin that makes me want to get into his pants. And well, I only have so much willpower.

As our teams get closer to a showdown on the ice, Jack begins shedding his armor of confidence. Despite getting to live the life I dreamed of, maybe Jack is as messed up as me.

The championship game could redeem the past for us both. But there can only be one winner. Will victory taste as sweet if it costs me Jack?

Gross Misconduct is a rivals to lovers, age gap, single dad, gay romance with no cheating and an HEA. It is book 1 in The Comebacks, a series about a friend group of single dads who were hockey all-stars in high school and looking to recapture the magic in their forties. Whether they win or lose, there's always a post-game beer.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/222816623-gross-misconduct

********

My Review: 4/5 Stars

After a terrible injury on the ice that left him no vision in one of his eyes, Griffin has avoided the ice. His future in the NHL was gone in moments. And he has avoided the ice ever since. Now in his forties, he is divorced and raising his young daughters. But his old teammates are more determined than ever to get him on the ice and on their team for the local rec league. At first it is a hard no, but eventually he is persuaded to get back on the ice. Just in time to see Jack. The young, hot guy who right now doesn’t like him after a bit of a misunderstanding. Jack was forced to retire from the NHL after only four years, now at twenty-four, he has no idea what to do next. And he is struggling to find a job and keep a roof over his head. And after an argument with his dad, he finds him giving in to his friends to join the local rec hockey team. Where he runs into Griff. Who he is still a bit mad at. Their chemistry is intense and in this game of push and pull until eventually the two of them just snap. But there is pressure and complications all around them. And it will be up to them to figure out what to do with this intense connection between them. I really enjoyed reading Jack and Griff’s story! It seems like we had a lot of interesting characters and couples, that made me realize this was part of a bigger world. But lots of fun banter in this one along with hockey and romance. There was a lot more to Griff and Jack and I loved getting to know them and see how they fell for one another. Overall, it was a fun read! 

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

IOU Book 6: Ferocious by Leslie McAdam

 

IOU Book 6

When a scrawny, pink-haired ragamuffin tries to rob me at knifepoint, I respond the way any sensible person would and invite him to dinner—where he proceeds to threaten my entire ten-year plan simply by being his effervescent self. Much to my annoyance.

There’s no room in my life for a gorgeous criminal named Rowan. I need to check off the next item on my list: Find the right, respectable husband. I can’t be an accessory to a life of crime.

And yet, my perfect plan’s been a bust. Yes, I have millions of social media followers, a prestigious job, and an expensive car, but I’m realizing I want more from life. My casual hookups aren’t making me happy. I’m … lonely.

While Rowan’s a tattooed menace, he does something to my heart, and I can’t seem to stay away from him. Let’s not get started on how I like seeing my marks on him. Everywhere.

Rowan isn’t who I’m looking for, but it seems he’s not who we think he is, either. Which creates an entirely different set of problems with much, much higher stakes.

I’m in way too deep to get out. If I even want to.

Ferocious is a stand-alone contemporary M/M romance about Rowan, a rideshare-driving twink with a penchant for violence, and Charlie, a grumpy lawyer. It features first times, primal play, kidnapping and other crimes, and a philodendron that likes to ride in the car. HEA? Definitely.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/230633738-ferocious

********

My Review: 5/5 Stars

I’ve been looking forward to Rowan and Charlie’s story since we met them in the previous book and they did not disappoint! This story was even better than what I imagined for them. Everything is about to change for Rowan. He hasn’t had the best life. An orphan who never knew his parents and never had a real home, it’s been rough being on his own. Barely scraping by, things take a bad turn when his car is stolen right from under him. He’s had a pretty bad night and a bit of crazed desperation, he thinks mugging a guy much bigger than him is his best bet. Yet, he never expects for Charlie to turn around and offer to buy him dinner. It’s just the beginning of what becomes a chaotic and yet super sweet relationship between them. Meanwhile, Charlie is nearing the end of his ten year plan. A plan he thought would make him not just successful but happy. But happiness is not that easy. Yet, how can a menace like a pink haired Rowan who just held him at knife point, suddenly become the key to being happy? Nothing about their meeting should promise them love and a happy ending. But together they just work. They bring out the best in one another and become what the other has been searching for all along in life partner. I loved their banter and playfulness as they navigate this new sweet thing between them. And with plenty of more surprises in this story, together they can face it all. Loved this story! Definitely a favorite of mine in this series. I loved how different these two were yet they were exactly what the other needed. The love and connection between them was so clear and sweet. A great story all around!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Portland Evergreens Book 3: On Thin Ice by Beth Bolden

 

Portland Evergreens Book 3

Finn has lived with the pressure of hockey’s expectations since he was old enough to understand his father was one of the greatest the sport had ever known.

He’s changed positions. Changed plans. Changed colleges. But he’s never managed to outrun the pressure.

When it starts ruining his performance on the ice, he knows he needs to find a way to conquer it once and for all.

Desperation sends him running to the one man he thinks can help him. Jacob Braun, a goalie who played against his father.

It doesn’t matter that they hated each other, Finn will use him—use everything—to figure out how to beat this mental block. Even seduce his father’s greatest enemy.

What Finn wasn’t expecting was that they don’t just burn hot in bed, but on the ice, too. And that, ultimately, it isn’t Jacob’s brain he wants to pick apart, it’s his heart he wants to own.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/215538359-on-thin-ice

********

My Review: 5/5 Stars

The pressure that Finn carries for hockey expectations is one that has become heavier every day. And he is about to break. So he throws out a Hail Mary to see if he can save himself and his future in hockey. And that is to ask (or beg just a bit) former NHL goalie, Jacob, to coach him. He is also the one guy that Finn’s dad hates for being so good because he was never able to score on him. They had a rivalry and who better to teach him to tune out his father and everyone else on the ice than the man who seemed to do it with ease? Retiring earlier than planned, Jacob hasn’t really taken it that well. While he has some ideas now for what comes next, he didn’t expect to step back on the ice anytime soon. Especially when Morgan Reynolds’s son comes to him asking for help. At first it’s a hard no. But when he comes back, well Jacob’s willpower is only so much. There is a strong attraction between them but he won’t cross the line. It has bad idea written all over it, especially if he is agreeing to coach Finn. But their connection is so much stronger than either expected and it’s only a matter of time before they can no longer resist. Really loved Finn and Jacob’s story! Loved how these two formed this really strong connection and knew that being together would be tough but worth it. It was clear how much they cared. And it only got stronger the more they got to know one another and be there for one another through some tough things. I also was delightfully surprised that though it seemed like Finn and his dad had a tough relationship, Finn’s dad wasn’t a total jerk to the point where you hate him. I actually was rooting for them to figure out how to be a better father and son duo. And how everything was gonna turn out once Morgan found out about Jacob and Finn. Gotta say, pretty entertaining everyone’s dynamic. Another great book in this series! Can’t wait for more!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The Scarlet Veil Book 2: The Shadow Bride by Shelby Mahurin

 

The Scarlet Veil Book 2

In the thrilling conclusion of the duology set in the world of the New York Times bestselling Serpent & Dove series by Shelby Mahurin, a vampire and the woman who tried to kill him prove that true love can conquer anything, even Death. Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Mass.

Célie’s life is over. She took her final breath trying to save the people she loves—including the powerful and enigmatic vampire king, Michal, who refused to let her go. When Célie wakes, she cannot walk in the sun; she can hear her friends’ heartbeats and she craves their blood. Michal has cursed her to the eternal existence of a vampire.

But Célie isn’t the only dead roaming the earth. Her sister, Filippa, has returned as a shadow of her former self, and other revenants are rising from their graves intent on revenge. The fragile balance between life and death has broken, awakening an even darker force—and he is coming for Célie, ready to claim her as his Bride. With the fate of their world at stake, Célie and Michal must set aside their searing attraction to mend the veil and right the balance, once and for all.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199635112-the-shadow-bride

********

My Review: 5/5 Stars

Célie and Michal’s conclusion to their story has finally arrived! And it was a fantastic way to close their story and this world. Everything has changed for Cèlie. Desperate to save her, Michal does the one thing Célie never would have wanted: turned her into a vampire. Now, she must face her new reality while also facing the new threats that have arrived. The world is out of balance. Her sister has returned as a shadow of her former self, revenants have been created and terrorizing all, and someone has come for Célie. Everyone is in danger and it up to Célie, Michal, and their loved ones to save their world. Loved, loved this story. Everyone has come so far, especially Célie. I’ve loved her character growth. She has struggled to figure out her place and despite it, she still fights for those she loves. We had interesting enemies, twists and turns, and just a satisfying ending to this series. We got to see lots of past favorite characters that are always a joy on the page. I just couldn’t put this story down. I had to find out what happens and if everyone would get their happy ending. A great end to Célie and Michal’s story. If you loved this world and these characters, you definitely don’t want to miss this!

Adrenalin Book 1: Worthy by Michele Lenard

Adrenalin Book 1

 

Okay, I might have a reputation as a playboy, but I swear that’s not my fault.

Cade - When your small tourist town is lacking in single people, your only option for company is the temporary kind. And if given the choice between sleeping alone or sleeping around, well, can you blame me for choosing the latter?

If you think about it, I’m a victim of circumstance. A product of my environment. And that suits me just fine. Or it did, until a sexy stranger knocked me over, literally.

The newcomer is an angel to my devil. The type A to my slacker, working on a PhD thesis while I do everything in my power to delay taking over the family business. We should be totally incompatible. Yet somehow, I feel more at ease with this outsider than people I’ve known my whole life.

For the first time in—ever—I don't want to be just a fling, but how do I win over a relationship prone genius when I’m a notorious flirt? That’s not even the worst part. Did I mention I’m crushing on a guy, and until I met him, I considered myself straight?

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/228746031-worthy

********

My Review: 4/5 Stars

Cade never pictured himself finding love in his small town. The town is a tourist trap and when there aren’t many single people in town, he finds hook ups the best way to go. But nothing prepares him for Maddox. Cade has been wondering for a while now if he could be bisexual, but it isn’t until he sees Maddox that he knows for sure. It’s the first time a guy has grabbed his attention. But it is also more than that. Maddox doesn’t fall for Cade’s flirt and charm like most people do. And when Cade stops doing what others expect him to do, he realizes that he actually likes Maddox. And turns out, Maddox likes him back. They spend their summer together flirting and having fun all the while falling for one another. But neither are going to admit it. For Cade, he doesn’t think he is worthy of Maddox and never wants to hold him back from the bright future he clearly has. Meanwhile, Maddox after first thought Cade was just flirting to hook up but when Maddox challenged Cade to step out of that role, the guy underneath is so much better. And Cade proves to be a great guy every day they spend together. If only Cade would see it too. But Maddox is scared to tell him how he feels as well. These two you just want to shake and tell them to admit their feelings! They bring out the best in one another and care for one another so much. They deserve their happy ending. This was fun story with a charming town! Looking forward to seeing more from this series!

Miami Nights & Club Lights Book 3: French 75 by Addison Beck

 

Miami Nights & Club Lights Book 3

Cassius

I’m in love with my best friend and he doesn’t even know it.

While everyone else can see how gone I am for Skylar, the man himself has no clue. I’ve always done everything in my power to show him how much I love him and prove to him that I’m the one for him.

After one bad breakup between him and his latest fling, he decides he needs to build the perfect boyfriend, and who else is going to help him besides me?

But this is my shot. It’s my chance to show Skylar that the real thing has been in front of him the entire time.

Now, there’s nothing that’s going to keep me from claiming what’s rightfully mine.

French 75 is dual-pov, friends-to-lovers romance. With pining, a bit of hurt/comfort, and lots of XO content, French 75 will leave you panting for more. This is the third in a series of interconnected standalones featuring the workers of club XO as they try to find their HEAs.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/222058798-french-75

********

My Review: 5/5 Stars

It’s Skylar and Cassius’s turn! In the last few books we’ve watched Skylar date terrible guy. They treat him horribly and always end up breaking his heart. While his best friend, Cassius, stays on the sidelines hopelessly in love with Skylar. Cassius and Skylar have been best friends for a long time. There is no one closer than them. But Cassius is too afraid to tell Skylar how he feels. He has made himself believe that he can be there for Skylar in any shape or form, even if it breaks his heart more and more when Skylar refuses to see what is right in front of him. Because the perfect man Skylar is looking for is Cassius. He just needs to open his eyes and see that. But Cassius is also patient. And he knows that despite being afraid to tell Skylar, he also knows that Skylar has to come to this realization himself. He has to choose Cassius. So he’ll wait. And an opportunity has finally arrived that has Cassius hoping their time has finally come. Skylar is determined to make a list to make the perfect boyfriend and he wants Cassius’s help. Cassius decides to show Skylar what it could be like when the right guy comes along and maybe Skylar will finally see Cassius is the one for him. These two! You just wanna shake Skylar to make him see what’s in front of him. These two act more and more like boyfriends throughout the book and even then, Skylar can’t admit to himself that he too is in love with his best friend. But with both their pasts, it’s understandable. And as much as you want to be like their friends who are tip toeing the edge of being blunt with Skylar, you get why Cassius has to wait. And it becomes so much more satisfying when Skylar finally sees what is in front of him. Really enjoyed this story! We also had a new character who had me in stitches and there is definitely going on with him and a certain someone. So I will need that story asap! But overall, another great story to this series!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. 

Desert Ice Hockey Book 5: Skating to Him by Christie Gordon

 

Desert Ice Hockey Book 5

I’m skating to the NHL while he’s running from his past. When we collide, am I brave enough to take the shot?

Tyler

Hockey is my life. My ticket to the NHL is in sight, and I can’t afford distractions.

Then Coach pairs me with Rowan, the new guy from Boston.

He’s talented, sharp, and annoyingly irresistible.

When he asks to hit the gay bar with me and my friends, I chalk it up to curiosity.

But one too many drinks later, I spill my truth—and suddenly, he’s looking at me like he’s ready to cross a line he’s never touched before.

I’ve been burned by straight guys before, and I’m not about to get hurt again.

Rowan swears he’s different. Can I risk believing him?

Rowan

Leaving Boston was my escape—from my mom’s illness, from the pressure, from myself.

But playing alongside Tyler changes everything. He’s not just the best defenseman I’ve ever met, he’s magnetic and so guarded I ache to know what’s underneath.

I’ve never wanted a man before, but Tyler makes me question everything I knew about myself.

I need him to see I’m not playing games.

This is real. He’s real.

And I won’t stop fighting until he believes it.

Skating to Him is the fifth book in the college hockey series, Desert Ice Hockey, and is the follow up to the Rock U series. It features a D-man burned by a curious straight guy and another having a bisexual awakening, hurt/comfort, and found family among the backdrop of the holidays. Desert Ice Hockey follows a group of queer hockey players, known as the squad, while they each battle for their HEA.

Buy now to explore a world where emotions run as high as the heat and hockey isn’t the only game I town!

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/222755467-skating-to-him

********

My Review: 4/5 Stars

Tyler is on his way to the NHL. He’s ready to focus and cross that finish line and get signed. And when his coach assigns him a new D-man on the ice to be his partner, he knows that together him and Rowan are gonna kill it. Though there is one small problem. Tyler is ridiculously attracted to Rowan. He’ll do what he can to make sure his interest isn’t shone. But the there are moments between them that make Tyler wonder if something could happen between them. Rowan has never been attracted to a guy before. So it takes him a while to realize exactly what this feeling is when it comes to Tyler. And the more he learns about Tyler, the more he likes him. Could there be something between them? The moment these two stop fighting their feelings and get together, they are everything! I loved how these two took a chance on one another. Both had their own reasons to be wary to have a relationship, but they the connection between them was undeniable. And the knew ignoring something like this would be a big mistake. Really loved getting to know Tyler and Rowan and watching them become their best selves as they fought hard for a future together. We are nearing the end of this series with one more squad member left and I can’t wait to see how his story goes!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.