Rules of the Game Book 3: Changing the Rules by Brigham Vaughn

 

Rules of the Game Book 3

Rule #1: Don’t fall in love with the coach.

Gabriel Theriault’s been skating on thin ice for the past two seasons with Toronto but his arrest following an off-ice fight is the final straw.

His only shot at redemption is to start over in Evanston and prove that he still has what it takes to be a pro player.

No more fights. No more drinking. No more random hookups. 

Rule #2: The team always comes first.

Years ago, Lance Tate’s on-ice injury ended his career and marriage.

His long road to recovery led to a job he loves as assistant coach with the Evanston Otters, and he wouldn’t dream of giving that up. 

Until he meets Gabriel. 

The French-Canadian is fifteen years younger, burdened by too much responsibility, and the most intriguing man Lance has ever met. 

He’s also the absolute last man Lance should get involved with. 

The draw between them is impossible to resist—even if it could cost them the game they love. 

Their only chance at winning it all is to change the rules.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60058858-changing-the-rules

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Gabriel has had a secret for a long time. And unfortunately for him, it’s weighed him down so much that it’s put his NHL career in jeopardy. But after telling his friend the truth, he is able to get him a new start with the Evanston Otters. Gabriel is determined to make the change. His father is suffering from a condition thanks to his long NHL career and too many concussions. Unable to tell anyone about it because he promised he wouldn’t, Gabriel has had to juggle caring for him and finding him help while maintaining his career. But coming to Chicago has helped him find the resources he needs to take care of his dad and he is finally able to get his head in the game and commit to his sport. But what he doesn’t expect is to fall in love along the way. When Gabriel needs someone most, Lance is there. Lance is the assistant coach the Otters and works with the offensive line. Luckily for Gabriel he is on defense. But the moment these two meet, it is clear there is some sort of connection. A dangerous one to pursue thanks to their careers but one neither can resist when they finally let those barriers fall. They know things could end badly for both if anyone finds out, but what they have is too special to give up. I really loved this story because it has been clear that Gabriel has needed someone in his life. He fell into a spiral and wouldn’t let anyone in. But he lets Lance in and they just work. And for Lance, he has been through a lot as well and being with Gabriel let’s him be himself and be comfortable with who he is. Great story around! Really loving this series!