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Colorado Bulldogs #1
Bad Pucking Timing
The ice is my happy place. My sanctuary. The source of my happiest memories, and the promise of my future. It’s also the reason I’m living a lie.
There’s no better feeling than holding another man in your hand while he comes undone.
Smooth skin wrapped around rigid muscle, a tantalizing mixture of soft and hard that pulses like a heartbeat within your fist. Grunts, moans, and breathless curses are uttered in cadence with the rapid rise and fall of his chest. Strained tendons in his neck.
I’ve yet to see a sexier sight than a man in the throes of his release. The only thing that tops it is when I’m the one who gives it to him.
It’s intoxicating… powerful . For just a moment, I’m in complete control. He’s placed something as sacred as his pleasure in my hands and trusted me to satisfy his needs.
Maybe it’s the fact that men are big and hard that makes watching them fall apart so sexy. Or maybe I just like seeing them vulnerable because society says we shouldn’t be. Whatever the reason, I’m hopelessly drawn to men. Have been since I first learned what attraction was. But that’s my dirty little secret. One that could cost me my shot at the NHL if it comes out.
That’s why he is so dangerous. My lifelong dream is within reach, and now there’s another I want to pursue. If only it weren’t such bad pucking timing.
There’s no better feeling than holding another man in your hand while he comes undone.
Smooth skin wrapped around rigid muscle, a tantalizing mixture of soft and hard that pulses like a heartbeat within your fist. Grunts, moans, and breathless curses are uttered in cadence with the rapid rise and fall of his chest. Strained tendons in his neck.
I’ve yet to see a sexier sight than a man in the throes of his release. The only thing that tops it is when I’m the one who gives it to him.
It’s intoxicating… powerful . For just a moment, I’m in complete control. He’s placed something as sacred as his pleasure in my hands and trusted me to satisfy his needs.
Maybe it’s the fact that men are big and hard that makes watching them fall apart so sexy. Or maybe I just like seeing them vulnerable because society says we shouldn’t be. Whatever the reason, I’m hopelessly drawn to men. Have been since I first learned what attraction was. But that’s my dirty little secret. One that could cost me my shot at the NHL if it comes out.
That’s why he is so dangerous. My lifelong dream is within reach, and now there’s another I want to pursue. If only it weren’t such bad pucking timing.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 8, 2023
384 people are currently reading
1151 people want to read
About the author
Michele Lenard
33 books151 followersMichele writes contemporary romance that is both sweet and steamy. Her goal is to make you fan your face as you wipe a tear from your eye. Several of her books have been named as finalists in the MARA Fiction From the Homeland contest. Her books are part of a series but there are no cliffhangers so each can be read as a standalone. When she isn't reading or writing she enjoys the outdoors, something that pops up in her books from time to time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 219 reviews
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August 31, 2023Dnf at 72%, no rating.
I tried, I really did. Dnf'ing ARCs always makes me feel like a kid cheating on the assignment. But just . . . no.
What worked:
The premise had a lot of promise. Closeted Rookie Hockeybro has an explosive night with a hot stranger. Fast forward a few months: hot stranger is his new coach's Out Son! But Closeted Hockeybro is, of course, closeted. And Out Son has been burned by a closeted jock before, won't go down that road again. And new coach doesn't believe gay and hockey should mix. Dilemmas galore!
Also, this book is horny on main. Bang, bang, bang-ity bang.
What didn't work
I love the "magnetic physical connection leads to deeper feelings" trope, but this wasn't very well executed. It wasn't even that it was insta-ish, it was that I just didn't buy the characters or their connection. I think this was partly the writing, which veered towards the basic, but mostly because there was very little to these characters other than Closeted Hockeybro! / Out Son! to actually invest in.
This is also one of those books where everything is on the surface all the time, spelled out at great length, and then repeated over and over. We got page after page of both characters going on and on (either interior monologue or dialogue) about this really very simple dilemma -- not out! won't be fooled again! coach's son! -- with no forward progress. And even when there is eventually movement on the dicking down front, there is no real change on the dilemma front: they just carry on mono-/dialoguing about their Terrible Situation, only with blowjobs. I made it to 72 percent and these two were still circling the same barren patch of land where they started. Too. Much.
Also, if you're going to give your Closeted Hockeybro Depth by making him a Nerd, doing this by making him like comic books of the Marvel/ DC variety -- and not even knowing what conventions or cosplay are! -- is not the way to go. Closeted Hockeybro's connection with Out Son is supposedly because Out Son gets him, even his secret nerdy side that he's never revealed to anyone, lest they judge! My dude, your secret nerdy side is the source material for 90 percent of the movies that have been made in the last 20 years, I think you're safe. This is not niche content, bro.
Also, and here I admit that I am being pedantic to the extreme, but a Swede would not have the last name "Sven." Svensson, yes. Sven, no. There are, like, 5 last names in Sweden, do not mess with this.
All in all -- a promising premise but unconvincing execution. I gave it way more of a chance than I would have if it hadn't been an ARC, but sometimes even I've gotta concede defeat.
I got an ARC from GRR and this is my honest review.
I tried, I really did. Dnf'ing ARCs always makes me feel like a kid cheating on the assignment. But just . . . no.
What worked:
The premise had a lot of promise. Closeted Rookie Hockeybro has an explosive night with a hot stranger. Fast forward a few months: hot stranger is his new coach's Out Son! But Closeted Hockeybro is, of course, closeted. And Out Son has been burned by a closeted jock before, won't go down that road again. And new coach doesn't believe gay and hockey should mix. Dilemmas galore!
Also, this book is horny on main. Bang, bang, bang-ity bang.
What didn't work
I love the "magnetic physical connection leads to deeper feelings" trope, but this wasn't very well executed. It wasn't even that it was insta-ish, it was that I just didn't buy the characters or their connection. I think this was partly the writing, which veered towards the basic, but mostly because there was very little to these characters other than Closeted Hockeybro! / Out Son! to actually invest in.
This is also one of those books where everything is on the surface all the time, spelled out at great length, and then repeated over and over. We got page after page of both characters going on and on (either interior monologue or dialogue) about this really very simple dilemma -- not out! won't be fooled again! coach's son! -- with no forward progress. And even when there is eventually movement on the dicking down front, there is no real change on the dilemma front: they just carry on mono-/dialoguing about their Terrible Situation, only with blowjobs. I made it to 72 percent and these two were still circling the same barren patch of land where they started. Too. Much.
Also, if you're going to give your Closeted Hockeybro Depth by making him a Nerd, doing this by making him like comic books of the Marvel/ DC variety -- and not even knowing what conventions or cosplay are! -- is not the way to go. Closeted Hockeybro's connection with Out Son is supposedly because Out Son gets him, even his secret nerdy side that he's never revealed to anyone, lest they judge! My dude, your secret nerdy side is the source material for 90 percent of the movies that have been made in the last 20 years, I think you're safe. This is not niche content, bro.
Also, and here I admit that I am being pedantic to the extreme, but a Swede would not have the last name "Sven." Svensson, yes. Sven, no. There are, like, 5 last names in Sweden, do not mess with this.
All in all -- a promising premise but unconvincing execution. I gave it way more of a chance than I would have if it hadn't been an ARC, but sometimes even I've gotta concede defeat.
I got an ARC from GRR and this is my honest review.
January 18, 2026
This... wasn't bad? It wasn't great but it wasn't terrible either. The plot didn't bring anything new and rehashed the same stale (but unfortunately still accurate) fear-of-coming-out concerns as a lot of sports-based books.
Niko is in his rookie year of playing in the NHL and doesn't want to rock the boat by being open about his sexuality until he meets his head coach's son Xander and throws caution to the wind. Michele does create very convincing chemistry between Niko and Xander, which singlehandedly holds this book together.
The whole book culminates in a very happy 'everyone was fine with it the end' that felt unsatisfying. These boys were sure they'd go down swinging...and then nothing really ever tested that. If you want a HEA low angst story then this is a funish easy read that won't tax your brain. Personally, I was hoping for a little more depth and 7 fewer easy to spot typos.
Niko is in his rookie year of playing in the NHL and doesn't want to rock the boat by being open about his sexuality until he meets his head coach's son Xander and throws caution to the wind. Michele does create very convincing chemistry between Niko and Xander, which singlehandedly holds this book together.
The whole book culminates in a very happy 'everyone was fine with it the end' that felt unsatisfying. These boys were sure they'd go down swinging...and then nothing really ever tested that. If you want a HEA low angst story then this is a funish easy read that won't tax your brain. Personally, I was hoping for a little more depth and 7 fewer easy to spot typos.
![Profile Image for Megan [At The Cottage].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1634561405i%2F25103878._UY200_CR50%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
November 9, 2023
MM Romance
Coach’s Son/Star Player
DNF @ 54%
Ok I was ready to DNF this anyway because it was so unbelievably one dimensional and boring but then Niko and Xander become boyfriends and spend the night together and when they wake up in the morning they have a literal SWORD FIGHT with their dicks. WTF 😳🙈 I just cannot 💀
”I’m reminded of something he said the night we met, choosing a jedi for his fantasy basketball team, and before I can process the absurdity of it, I twist my hips so my junk smacks against his.
“Did you just swordfight me with your dick?” He blinks rapidly as his jaw falls open.
“Lightsaber.” …
….“I came first. Even if I didn’t, you played lightsaber dicks with me. You did something fun without me making you do it first. Total win.””
Also, Xander made a big deal about their ages when 24 and 20 isn’t even an issue…
I had this at 1 star but changed it to 2 because I didn’t hate it, just find it extremely boring and cringy.
Coach’s Son/Star Player
DNF @ 54%
Ok I was ready to DNF this anyway because it was so unbelievably one dimensional and boring but then Niko and Xander become boyfriends and spend the night together and when they wake up in the morning they have a literal SWORD FIGHT with their dicks. WTF 😳🙈 I just cannot 💀
”I’m reminded of something he said the night we met, choosing a jedi for his fantasy basketball team, and before I can process the absurdity of it, I twist my hips so my junk smacks against his.
“Did you just swordfight me with your dick?” He blinks rapidly as his jaw falls open.
“Lightsaber.” …
….“I came first. Even if I didn’t, you played lightsaber dicks with me. You did something fun without me making you do it first. Total win.””
Also, Xander made a big deal about their ages when 24 and 20 isn’t even an issue…
I had this at 1 star but changed it to 2 because I didn’t hate it, just find it extremely boring and cringy.
October 27, 2023
⭐️ 4.5 stars ⭐️
Grumpy/sunshine dynamic, closeted hockey player meets the coach’s broody son who makes him rethink his priorities and what he’s willing to risk for love - but will Xander risk his broken heart again?
Bad Pucking Timing might not be anything we haven’t seen before trope-wise, but it was nevertheless absolutely amazing.
The communication and respect between the characters was refreshing, I love it when characters talk to each other about their problems instead of avoiding and running.
Great romance, great side characters that have an actual personality and insanely hot spice - everything I look for in a romance, so this was definitely a win for me.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Tropes and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Hockey player vs coach’s son
- Grumpy/sunshine
- one night stand to lovers
- Vers MCs
- Swedish MC
- Closeted vs out
Grumpy/sunshine dynamic, closeted hockey player meets the coach’s broody son who makes him rethink his priorities and what he’s willing to risk for love - but will Xander risk his broken heart again?
Bad Pucking Timing might not be anything we haven’t seen before trope-wise, but it was nevertheless absolutely amazing.
The communication and respect between the characters was refreshing, I love it when characters talk to each other about their problems instead of avoiding and running.
Great romance, great side characters that have an actual personality and insanely hot spice - everything I look for in a romance, so this was definitely a win for me.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Tropes and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Hockey player vs coach’s son
- Grumpy/sunshine
- one night stand to lovers
- Vers MCs
- Swedish MC
- Closeted vs out
August 24, 2023
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
this was some silly, lighthearted fun with some veeeery sexy moments 🤭 i found X's melodrama a bit annoying ngl, and while i sorta get where he's coming from, i'm just not (nor will i ever be) in camp: but that's a me thing.
stars for niko, star wars references, and the side characters who i thought were all pretty awesome, especially TRIPP!!! lawd that boy is a good time fr 😅
this was some silly, lighthearted fun with some veeeery sexy moments 🤭 i found X's melodrama a bit annoying ngl, and while i sorta get where he's coming from, i'm just not (nor will i ever be) in camp: but that's a me thing.
stars for niko, star wars references, and the side characters who i thought were all pretty awesome, especially TRIPP!!! lawd that boy is a good time fr 😅
Read
January 8, 2024DNF @ 54% - You can’t just take MF romance change the names of the characters and change some of the mechanics of the sex and call it MM romance. Writing felt robotic.
November 5, 2023
3.5 - Easy reading, light, pretty standard hockey romance. This was fine, it was nice and I liked the side characters and set up for the next book. It easily filled my book bucket for the day but I do wish the author had spent more time building the actual relationship for them to be believably in love. I didn’t buy that Niko would risk his career for their relationship.
There was a lot of over explaining and repeated internal monologues. I would have loved if more of this page time was used for really establishing a connection between the characters and seeing them fall in love. And more time spent showing the outcome of them coming out as that was really what the tension through the book was all about. It was quite superficial and easy. I didn’t see how they fell in love so quickly and are both suddenly willing to risk so much after just a short time together that we didn’t really get to see. Apparently they bond over nerdiness but I didn’t see much evidence of this other than a few random mentions of Clark Kent and Thor. I’m a huge sucker for the nerd/jock trope though and I did appreciate the slightly different take on it with Xander being more artsy emo skater boy.
I liked this, but in a sea of hockey m/m this didn’t make any waves for me.
There was a lot of over explaining and repeated internal monologues. I would have loved if more of this page time was used for really establishing a connection between the characters and seeing them fall in love. And more time spent showing the outcome of them coming out as that was really what the tension through the book was all about. It was quite superficial and easy. I didn’t see how they fell in love so quickly and are both suddenly willing to risk so much after just a short time together that we didn’t really get to see. Apparently they bond over nerdiness but I didn’t see much evidence of this other than a few random mentions of Clark Kent and Thor. I’m a huge sucker for the nerd/jock trope though and I did appreciate the slightly different take on it with Xander being more artsy emo skater boy.
I liked this, but in a sea of hockey m/m this didn’t make any waves for me.
August 23, 2023
Awwww… I loved this grumpy/sunshine hockey romance.
A rookie hockey player who’s a ray of sunshine falls for his emotionally closed off coach’s son. Lots of sweet moments and some super hot sex serve to tear down walls and it actually ends up feeling a bit like instalove. One of the MCs even mentions it so it’s the kind of book that acknowledges all of its potential flaws and I’m into that.
This author is new to me and I’m now a fan! I sincerely hope a side character from this story gets his own hockey player in the next book.
Surprisingly low angst!
A rookie hockey player who’s a ray of sunshine falls for his emotionally closed off coach’s son. Lots of sweet moments and some super hot sex serve to tear down walls and it actually ends up feeling a bit like instalove. One of the MCs even mentions it so it’s the kind of book that acknowledges all of its potential flaws and I’m into that.
This author is new to me and I’m now a fan! I sincerely hope a side character from this story gets his own hockey player in the next book.
Surprisingly low angst!
September 28, 2023
5 stars all the way. i loooooooved these two so much. after my last few reads had some form of a miscommunication trope, this was big on cleansing my palate. Xander and Niko (hate the names) are so on with each other. Niko def earns the golden retriever tag. there are some errors in the writing but nothing that ruins immersion and not enough for me to care when the rest is everything i like.
Nikolas is a 20yo Swedish-American transplant who gets drafted to the NHL. mans is gay gay gay and living in the closet because his career takes precedent. he keeps his romantic life confined to strictly physical friendly arrangements until his first year drafted has him wanting to protect his rookie title. those plans are more or less blown to smithereens when he crosses paths with a one night stand he couldn't stop thinking about again and learns he's none other than his new coach's son.
enter Alexander, a broody graphic artist with an aversion to hockey, a tense relationship with his coach father, and a flamboyant bestie named Tripp. after having his heart broken by a closeted hockey player, Xander is a very serious and sexy nerd with no desire to have more than a one night stand when the mood strikes. he's thrown for a loop when he encounters Niko's giant ass.
before these two even know each other's name, they are knocking boots and it is fire. every spicy scene in here did it for me because it always felt so meaningful. i'm a sucker for some deep and sensual lovemaking and they were sooo good at it.
The languid stroke of his fingers over my back makes me fight to keep my eyes open. It’s the most tender moment I’ve ever experienced with another man, both because it’s so intimate and because it follows sex that I laughed during.
when they meet again, Niko is convinced it's fate but Xander is too reserved to be optimistic. in Niko's determination to convince Xander he's serious about his attraction towards him, he settles in to be his friend and really means to be just that. seriously guys, he 100% was fine just being friends with Xander.
“Getting involved? Since when was that your intent?”
“I’m starting to think it always was.”
“So the whole friends thing wasn’t just a means to get into a friends with benefits thing?” His fingers slide down to my hand and lock around mine.
“I mean, I’ve been dying to get you back in bed since the cookout, but if I’m being honest, it wasn’t just about the sex. That was incredible, obviously, but I never felt a connection with anyone like I do with you. Right from the start everything was just…more. I can’t get it out of my head. I can’t get you out of my head.”
"What are you saying?”
“I want you, and I think you want me.”
anyways i just really want to make a note again that the communication here was too fucking good. some examples:
1. Niko is out to his twin sister and openly discusses his feelings about Xander. he is receptive to her hesitation and accepts her feedback graciously. he later takes what she says to heart and uses that when he next interacts with Xander in person.
2. when Xander is frustrated about not being able to discuss their relationship with anyone, not even Tripp, Niko is confused and asks if Xander trusts him. he doesn't hesitate to urge Xander to confide in Tripp and Xander is very reverent about having that trust. the relationship between Xander and Tripp is so cute, Tripp really does shine in his role and i never felt like exchanges with him were anything short of entertaining.
“I don’t hate hockey, I hate that my dad is so obsessed with it. And Niko doesn’t know I love him because I’m still not sure I do.”
“Really? You’re objecting that you’re in love on the basis you’re clueless?”
3. when facing Xander's dad, Niko's coach, he doesn't exactly take it well or handle it favorably. when Xander is about to defend himself and Niko, Niko is even quicker in shutting him down politely. it was hot ngl
okay but ultimately the communication about their feelings was everything. the beginning was what it was. Niko's default was being in the closet, but he was willing to come out for the right person... eventually. despite Xander's past, everything about Niko helped him overlook his otherwise stringent rules and take a chance on him, even though it meant going back in the closet.
“I can’t sit here and promise you a happy ending no matter how much I might want to. There are too many factors at play, and only one of them is me being in the closet. We could find the separation of away games too much of a hassle. I could get traded...”
“I notice none of those things is me deciding I don’t like you.” There’s my sarcastic dark angel.
“And none of them is me ghosting you either. The point is we don’t know what could happen. There’s always that risk, with everything in life. But I’m not interested in missing out on things just because there’s a chance they might not work.”
while they get their HEA without making us suffer through a third act breakup or any real climactic drama, i just adored these two for being exactly the way they were. this bodied its grumpy/sunshine trope. Nikolas being the one to initiate his coming out and proving himself to Xander without Xander needing to go through extreme emotional peril was just the sweetest thing. even though this was basically instalust that veers dangerously close to instalove, i really felt the connection between them. it starts off awkward because initially it is, being a one night stand and total strangers. but when they find how much they have in common and how easy it is for them to just be with each other, the mega sparks between them make sense. they're goofy and smoldering, it's delish.
I’m reminded of something he said the night we met, choosing a jedi for his fantasy basketball team, and before I can process the absurdity of it, I twist my hips so my junk smacks against his.
“Did you just swordfight me with your dick?” He blinks rapidly as his jaw falls open.
“Lightsaber.”
A wicked smile spreads across his face, those luscious dimples issuing a challenge. Then he clamps his hands on my thighs, holding me in place as he rocks side to side, trying to slam his cock against mine.
JUST SO CUTE DAMMIT. i'll shut up now but this is gonna be a reread for me purr
Nikolas is a 20yo Swedish-American transplant who gets drafted to the NHL. mans is gay gay gay and living in the closet because his career takes precedent. he keeps his romantic life confined to strictly physical friendly arrangements until his first year drafted has him wanting to protect his rookie title. those plans are more or less blown to smithereens when he crosses paths with a one night stand he couldn't stop thinking about again and learns he's none other than his new coach's son.
enter Alexander, a broody graphic artist with an aversion to hockey, a tense relationship with his coach father, and a flamboyant bestie named Tripp. after having his heart broken by a closeted hockey player, Xander is a very serious and sexy nerd with no desire to have more than a one night stand when the mood strikes. he's thrown for a loop when he encounters Niko's giant ass.
before these two even know each other's name, they are knocking boots and it is fire. every spicy scene in here did it for me because it always felt so meaningful. i'm a sucker for some deep and sensual lovemaking and they were sooo good at it.
The languid stroke of his fingers over my back makes me fight to keep my eyes open. It’s the most tender moment I’ve ever experienced with another man, both because it’s so intimate and because it follows sex that I laughed during.
when they meet again, Niko is convinced it's fate but Xander is too reserved to be optimistic. in Niko's determination to convince Xander he's serious about his attraction towards him, he settles in to be his friend and really means to be just that. seriously guys, he 100% was fine just being friends with Xander.
“Getting involved? Since when was that your intent?”
“I’m starting to think it always was.”
“So the whole friends thing wasn’t just a means to get into a friends with benefits thing?” His fingers slide down to my hand and lock around mine.
“I mean, I’ve been dying to get you back in bed since the cookout, but if I’m being honest, it wasn’t just about the sex. That was incredible, obviously, but I never felt a connection with anyone like I do with you. Right from the start everything was just…more. I can’t get it out of my head. I can’t get you out of my head.”
"What are you saying?”
“I want you, and I think you want me.”
anyways i just really want to make a note again that the communication here was too fucking good. some examples:
1. Niko is out to his twin sister and openly discusses his feelings about Xander. he is receptive to her hesitation and accepts her feedback graciously. he later takes what she says to heart and uses that when he next interacts with Xander in person.
2. when Xander is frustrated about not being able to discuss their relationship with anyone, not even Tripp, Niko is confused and asks if Xander trusts him. he doesn't hesitate to urge Xander to confide in Tripp and Xander is very reverent about having that trust. the relationship between Xander and Tripp is so cute, Tripp really does shine in his role and i never felt like exchanges with him were anything short of entertaining.
“I don’t hate hockey, I hate that my dad is so obsessed with it. And Niko doesn’t know I love him because I’m still not sure I do.”
“Really? You’re objecting that you’re in love on the basis you’re clueless?”
3. when facing Xander's dad, Niko's coach, he doesn't exactly take it well or handle it favorably. when Xander is about to defend himself and Niko, Niko is even quicker in shutting him down politely. it was hot ngl
okay but ultimately the communication about their feelings was everything. the beginning was what it was. Niko's default was being in the closet, but he was willing to come out for the right person... eventually. despite Xander's past, everything about Niko helped him overlook his otherwise stringent rules and take a chance on him, even though it meant going back in the closet.
“I can’t sit here and promise you a happy ending no matter how much I might want to. There are too many factors at play, and only one of them is me being in the closet. We could find the separation of away games too much of a hassle. I could get traded...”
“I notice none of those things is me deciding I don’t like you.” There’s my sarcastic dark angel.
“And none of them is me ghosting you either. The point is we don’t know what could happen. There’s always that risk, with everything in life. But I’m not interested in missing out on things just because there’s a chance they might not work.”
while they get their HEA without making us suffer through a third act breakup or any real climactic drama, i just adored these two for being exactly the way they were. this bodied its grumpy/sunshine trope. Nikolas being the one to initiate his coming out and proving himself to Xander without Xander needing to go through extreme emotional peril was just the sweetest thing. even though this was basically instalust that veers dangerously close to instalove, i really felt the connection between them. it starts off awkward because initially it is, being a one night stand and total strangers. but when they find how much they have in common and how easy it is for them to just be with each other, the mega sparks between them make sense. they're goofy and smoldering, it's delish.
I’m reminded of something he said the night we met, choosing a jedi for his fantasy basketball team, and before I can process the absurdity of it, I twist my hips so my junk smacks against his.
“Did you just swordfight me with your dick?” He blinks rapidly as his jaw falls open.
“Lightsaber.”
A wicked smile spreads across his face, those luscious dimples issuing a challenge. Then he clamps his hands on my thighs, holding me in place as he rocks side to side, trying to slam his cock against mine.
JUST SO CUTE DAMMIT. i'll shut up now but this is gonna be a reread for me purr
April 15, 2024
Tropes: grumpy/sunshine, NHL player & coach's son, forbidden relationship, secret relationship
Feels: 4/5
Steam*: 3.75/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: homophobia
4.5 stars, loved the vibe
Niko is a 20 year old Swedish hockey player who has been living in the US since age 15 off and on. He tries out for an NHL team in Denver and has a one-night stand with a guy he met at a bar/pub. He goes home and then finds out he made the team, and 2 months after that one night stand he runs into the guy at his coach's house during a team barbecue. The coach is his dad. Niko is completely in the closet, only as family know he's gay. He's only ever done friends with benefits arrangements with people he could trust to keep it secret.
Xander is 23 and out. He was hurt by his boyfriend as a teenager who was in the closet and ended up ghosting him. Ever since then he's avoided relationships and only done one nighters. His dad stopped paying the same attention to him when Xander gave up on playing hockey. They haven't had a horrible relationship, his dad is accepting of him, just hasn't been great. His dad definitely doesn't want him getting involved with one of his players.
Niko and Xander had a really intriguing connection from their one night onward. They talked a lot that night and they shared a lot of interest and they had the best sex of their lives. When they meet again, Niko really really wants more and he convinces Xander to give them a try as friends and then hooking up and then boyfriends. They agree to keep their relationship secret as they see where this could go if anywhere. But Nico doesn't want to keep himself in the closet forever. He doesn't want to live a double life and he doesn't want to make Xander have to make sacrifices. Niko is a genuinely nice guy and really cares about Xander.
This book was delightful. It wasn't perfect. Xander was a little over dramatic in letting the ex he had at 17 affect him so much, immature guys are going to do immature guy s***. Niko at 20 was a little young to settle down with the love of his life. And I wish we had seen them sneaking around for longer, and having more everyday living moments together before the love bombs were dropped. But that didn't matter because I enjoyed the s*** out of the book. I love a grumpy black cat character and Xander was that. And I also love a dimpled sunshine character like Niko who is a good human and in touch with his feelings and open, communicates well.
I enjoyed the friend group, the sister, Tripp, and the teammates had some great interactions. There were some lovely moments of humor. And just honestly the open communication, the honesty was a huge selling point, there were no games here, there were no bad guys who made stupid decisions or had dumb miscommunications. And they were such a good match for each other. They had more in common than you would have thought.
I'm looking forward to Tripp and Noah's story.
Some notable moments:
I really love that Niko is a nice guy. ""But now… I have this strong urge to protect you, even from me, and it makes me want to say we shouldn't date." “Is that what you want?” Xander’s beautiful face is once again expressionless. Another mask. I’m already hurting him, all the more reason to say yes. “Fuck no,” I blurt before my own sense of morality can get in the way. “I want you now more than ever. I just don’t want to disappoint you.”"
I love that Niko considers his relationship with Xander more permanent than his hockey career, and thus more important. "“That’s just it. For now. I know it’s supposed to be the secret that’s temporary, but that’s backward. The only thing temporary here is hockey.” Holy fuck! Did he just say what I think he did?"
Ha! The way the dad instantly knew what was about to happen. "It takes a minute or two for the door to open, and once it does, my dad looks at us for about two seconds before the pink flush starts rising up his neck. “Fuck,” he mutters as he spins away and walks inside, though at least he left the door open."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 4/5
Steam*: 3.75/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: homophobia
4.5 stars, loved the vibe
Niko is a 20 year old Swedish hockey player who has been living in the US since age 15 off and on. He tries out for an NHL team in Denver and has a one-night stand with a guy he met at a bar/pub. He goes home and then finds out he made the team, and 2 months after that one night stand he runs into the guy at his coach's house during a team barbecue. The coach is his dad. Niko is completely in the closet, only as family know he's gay. He's only ever done friends with benefits arrangements with people he could trust to keep it secret.
Xander is 23 and out. He was hurt by his boyfriend as a teenager who was in the closet and ended up ghosting him. Ever since then he's avoided relationships and only done one nighters. His dad stopped paying the same attention to him when Xander gave up on playing hockey. They haven't had a horrible relationship, his dad is accepting of him, just hasn't been great. His dad definitely doesn't want him getting involved with one of his players.
Niko and Xander had a really intriguing connection from their one night onward. They talked a lot that night and they shared a lot of interest and they had the best sex of their lives. When they meet again, Niko really really wants more and he convinces Xander to give them a try as friends and then hooking up and then boyfriends. They agree to keep their relationship secret as they see where this could go if anywhere. But Nico doesn't want to keep himself in the closet forever. He doesn't want to live a double life and he doesn't want to make Xander have to make sacrifices. Niko is a genuinely nice guy and really cares about Xander.
This book was delightful. It wasn't perfect. Xander was a little over dramatic in letting the ex he had at 17 affect him so much, immature guys are going to do immature guy s***. Niko at 20 was a little young to settle down with the love of his life. And I wish we had seen them sneaking around for longer, and having more everyday living moments together before the love bombs were dropped. But that didn't matter because I enjoyed the s*** out of the book. I love a grumpy black cat character and Xander was that. And I also love a dimpled sunshine character like Niko who is a good human and in touch with his feelings and open, communicates well.
I enjoyed the friend group, the sister, Tripp, and the teammates had some great interactions. There were some lovely moments of humor. And just honestly the open communication, the honesty was a huge selling point, there were no games here, there were no bad guys who made stupid decisions or had dumb miscommunications. And they were such a good match for each other. They had more in common than you would have thought.
I'm looking forward to Tripp and Noah's story.
Some notable moments:
I really love that Niko is a nice guy. ""But now… I have this strong urge to protect you, even from me, and it makes me want to say we shouldn't date." “Is that what you want?” Xander’s beautiful face is once again expressionless. Another mask. I’m already hurting him, all the more reason to say yes. “Fuck no,” I blurt before my own sense of morality can get in the way. “I want you now more than ever. I just don’t want to disappoint you.”"
I love that Niko considers his relationship with Xander more permanent than his hockey career, and thus more important. "“That’s just it. For now. I know it’s supposed to be the secret that’s temporary, but that’s backward. The only thing temporary here is hockey.” Holy fuck! Did he just say what I think he did?"
Ha! The way the dad instantly knew what was about to happen. "It takes a minute or two for the door to open, and once it does, my dad looks at us for about two seconds before the pink flush starts rising up his neck. “Fuck,” he mutters as he spins away and walks inside, though at least he left the door open."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Michele Lenard is new author for me with a new series and it didn’t take me long to get hooked on Niko and Xander. They meet early in the book and have a hot hookup. Niko hasn’t had many, if any, one-night stands and he’s unsure of how to proceed. But Xander knows and, even though it was a great night, Xander is out the door. The men meet again in an unexpected way and how that happens is a little bit of a spoiler for the book, so I will not mention that.
Most of the pacing was good, but somewhere along the way it became about waiting to see if Niko was going to come out and it slowed down some. Niko’s teammates becomes a good support for the men and there are subtle hints of other stories to come and when those drop, I will be all in.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Michele Lenard is new author for me with a new series and it didn’t take me long to get hooked on Niko and Xander. They meet early in the book and have a hot hookup. Niko hasn’t had many, if any, one-night stands and he’s unsure of how to proceed. But Xander knows and, even though it was a great night, Xander is out the door. The men meet again in an unexpected way and how that happens is a little bit of a spoiler for the book, so I will not mention that.
Most of the pacing was good, but somewhere along the way it became about waiting to see if Niko was going to come out and it slowed down some. Niko’s teammates becomes a good support for the men and there are subtle hints of other stories to come and when those drop, I will be all in.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
July 31, 2023
4.5 stars
Michele Lenard is a new to me author.
I loved reading Xander and Niko's story. 😍😍
Niko (sunshine)- hockey player, originally from Sweden 🇸🇪/ has a twin, only out to his family.
Xander (grumpy) -hockey Coach's son, openly gay
I loved the camaraderie, the Spice, the nerdy superhero references, the relationship development and Xander's bff- ' Tripp' /the shameless flirt. 😁 I'd love to read his story next. 😊
I highly recommend reading.
It is strictly MM (vers)
Thank you to Candi Kane PR for providing me with this ARC.
Michele Lenard is a new to me author.
I loved reading Xander and Niko's story. 😍😍
Niko (sunshine)- hockey player, originally from Sweden 🇸🇪/ has a twin, only out to his family.
Xander (grumpy) -hockey Coach's son, openly gay
I loved the camaraderie, the Spice, the nerdy superhero references, the relationship development and Xander's bff- ' Tripp' /the shameless flirt. 😁 I'd love to read his story next. 😊
I highly recommend reading.
It is strictly MM (vers)
Thank you to Candi Kane PR for providing me with this ARC.
August 26, 2023
This was my first book by this author and I absolutely loved it! I’m so excited to read more books in this series! This is your regular run-of-the-mill MM hockey romance but it had so many things I love and they don’t get old!
Xander and Nico were wonderful together and I loved how seriously they took their relationship once they committed. Their communication was great and the understanding they had for each with their hang ups was wonderful. These two had incredible chemistry from the very first meeting.
This was a lower-angst romance. There were issues both MCs had to work out and outside problems but they weren’t dragged out or done with unnecessary drama. I really loved that! The supporting characters were all great and I’m hoping for a certain couple to be the MCs in the next book! I absolutely recommend this read!
Xander and Nico were wonderful together and I loved how seriously they took their relationship once they committed. Their communication was great and the understanding they had for each with their hang ups was wonderful. These two had incredible chemistry from the very first meeting.
This was a lower-angst romance. There were issues both MCs had to work out and outside problems but they weren’t dragged out or done with unnecessary drama. I really loved that! The supporting characters were all great and I’m hoping for a certain couple to be the MCs in the next book! I absolutely recommend this read!
Read
July 3, 2024RTC
October 8, 2023
Actual rating: 4-4,5
This was actually very adorable, funny and HOT as hell!
I’ve never read anything by this author before and I was more than pleasantly surprised.
When Niko gets to Dever for a tryout session he finds a cute guy at a bar, who totally blows his mind. But when he actually gets signed as a Rookie weeks later and surprisingly meets that guy again, it’s an even bigger surprise for both who the other person really is, because it’s definitely the worst possible option.
This was a real grumpy/sunshine moment, a forbidden romance with a brooding skater boi and a hockey player…I mean ?!!!!!
I really loved this, the side characters were hilarious and I liked reading about the conflict of the secrecy and hiding.
It was surprisingly very drama free and full of meaningful conversation despite the very hot steam!
Can’t wait for the next book, I hope it will be about Tripp and Noah. 👀
This was actually very adorable, funny and HOT as hell!
I’ve never read anything by this author before and I was more than pleasantly surprised.
When Niko gets to Dever for a tryout session he finds a cute guy at a bar, who totally blows his mind. But when he actually gets signed as a Rookie weeks later and surprisingly meets that guy again, it’s an even bigger surprise for both who the other person really is, because it’s definitely the worst possible option.
This was a real grumpy/sunshine moment, a forbidden romance with a brooding skater boi and a hockey player…I mean ?!!!!!
I really loved this, the side characters were hilarious and I liked reading about the conflict of the secrecy and hiding.
It was surprisingly very drama free and full of meaningful conversation despite the very hot steam!
Can’t wait for the next book, I hope it will be about Tripp and Noah. 👀
August 20, 2023
Unfortunately I’ll be reading the next one bc I want to see Tripp and Noah get their HEA. I just know it’s not going to be good though.
sampled-didn-t-work-for-me
August 27, 2023Tried reading while sick with covid. It started off great but then it lost me. I want more ice time. I’m used to hockey books having actual hockey in them. This was dragging.
April 12, 2024
I enjoyed this book ♥
It's very low angst, very sweet and there's a lot of love making, but nothing kinky or anything.
It's very low angst, very sweet and there's a lot of love making, but nothing kinky or anything.
October 22, 2023
Very good hockey romance! Good communication and both of them are open and honest about their feelings ❤️ The 🌶️ is good! Not a slow burn 🔥
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
February 8, 2024
3/5 stars
March 14, 2024
BAD PUCKING TIMING was exactly what I wanted in an MM hockey romance and I'm really looking forward to more in this series! I loved the combination of golden retriever hockey player Niko and moody skater boy Xander and these two were on fire together. You might want to get a fan because this book was extra spicy but also really tender. The chemistry and care between these two was done so well and I was happy to see that while things start out a little rocky, there's not much angst in their relationship.
The hockey plot wasn't as prominent compared to other books in this trope but it was still enjoyable and I loved the hints at some future MCs and couples.
The hockey plot wasn't as prominent compared to other books in this trope but it was still enjoyable and I loved the hints at some future MCs and couples.
June 21, 2025
Wow, two MCs who aren’t allergic to feelings and understand how to communicate and have adult conversations? If I didn’t just read it then it would sound too good to be true!
The only reason why I didn’t rate this higher was because I felt like it was a bit too idealistic and didn’t feel like there was enough actually at stake to make for an engaging plot. It was too obvious what the outcome would be.
The only reason why I didn’t rate this higher was because I felt like it was a bit too idealistic and didn’t feel like there was enough actually at stake to make for an engaging plot. It was too obvious what the outcome would be.
February 16, 2025
4.5 stars
If you take the sex out of the equation, this was very wholesome, as weird as that sounds. Bill was this cinnamon roll/golden retriever of a character that basically single handedly restored Xander's faith in romantic relationships.
If you take the sex out of the equation, this was very wholesome, as weird as that sounds. Bill was this cinnamon roll/golden retriever of a character that basically single handedly restored Xander's faith in romantic relationships.
February 24, 2025
Hot, but nothing much happened.
July 30, 2024
🎧🎧AUDIOBOOK REVIEW🎧🎧
Narration ⇒ MY EARS HURT! lol, but not really. This is not my first time listening to Alexander Cendese and it probably will not be my last because I'm an audiobook fanatic these days so *shrug* but every single time he makes me so anxious that I never go more than a couple of chapters in his pov before i have to just stop. His style of narration is too fast and he sounds like he's yelling at someone but without the volume. Feel me? AND, his female voices are absolutely horrible. Every single time. So, it wasn't a disco party in my ears, but, Kirt Graves is a narrator I can get behind! I loved him, and he honestly saved the day for me. Him and the actual story, of course! Cendese gets 1 star and Kirt gets 5+ which makes the overall narration rating 3 stars.
Story ⇒ I really liked it! Very well developed with good character growth. The sexy was exactly what I'd expect from an MM romance and that made me very happy. The inherent obstacles because of who they were and what they did weren't dragged on in the storyline or even made to be cliche, which I appreciated. There wasn't anything in the story you didn't really see coming a mile away, but I genuinely enjoyed the storyline. Solid 4 stars
Unfortunately for Bad Pucking Timing, I'm reviewing my audio experience and technically, because math is not hard lol, overall it gets a 3.5 star rating but I can't round up. *shrug* so 3 stars it is! Do with all this information what you will :)
Narration ⇒ MY EARS HURT! lol, but not really. This is not my first time listening to Alexander Cendese and it probably will not be my last because I'm an audiobook fanatic these days so *shrug* but every single time he makes me so anxious that I never go more than a couple of chapters in his pov before i have to just stop. His style of narration is too fast and he sounds like he's yelling at someone but without the volume. Feel me? AND, his female voices are absolutely horrible. Every single time. So, it wasn't a disco party in my ears, but, Kirt Graves is a narrator I can get behind! I loved him, and he honestly saved the day for me. Him and the actual story, of course! Cendese gets 1 star and Kirt gets 5+ which makes the overall narration rating 3 stars.
Story ⇒ I really liked it! Very well developed with good character growth. The sexy was exactly what I'd expect from an MM romance and that made me very happy. The inherent obstacles because of who they were and what they did weren't dragged on in the storyline or even made to be cliche, which I appreciated. There wasn't anything in the story you didn't really see coming a mile away, but I genuinely enjoyed the storyline. Solid 4 stars
Unfortunately for Bad Pucking Timing, I'm reviewing my audio experience and technically, because math is not hard lol, overall it gets a 3.5 star rating but I can't round up. *shrug* so 3 stars it is! Do with all this information what you will :)
April 2, 2024
A well written grumpy-sunshine hockey romance. First of all I have to loudly praise the initial hookup scene. The author did a great job writing a sexy hookup that balanced fun and flirty with sizzling hot (the dirty talk was delicious), while also revealing the characters personalities and showing the emotional connection the characters made despite not trying to. It was an amazing setup and the story mostly lives up to that awesome start. There were a few small things that were less than perfect to me. First of all Xander’s reticence was a bit much. He had been done dirty when he was 17 years old, it made sense that he would have some trust issues. But he’s 24 and not able to engage fully in platonic friendships, let alone date because of it? It felt like a stretch. Secondly, the pacing could have been improved. Things start fast, pump the brakes hard, then accelerate very quickly again. This worked well for the steam side of things, but less well for the emotional side. All of the focus was on whether the characters could be in a relationship with little work on actually building the relationship. Lastly, the bff intruded just a little too much. That always annoys me, but especially when it’s obvious setup for a next book. Stay in your own book, Tripp. Something I really liked is that the characters didn’t cave to the pressure to make coming out a big to do. They said their relationship wasn’t a story and they stuck to it. It was very realistically portrayed as something that wasn’t easy to do, and required unfair restraint on their part, but as something important to them that they made work with the support of good people. Overall a very enjoyable read and I am hopeful that the more the author writes the more refined the stories will become.
August 5, 2023
Bad Pucking Timing by Michele Lenard
Book #1 in the Colorado Bulldogs
5⭐️+
4.5🌶️
Tropes
MM romance
Sports romance (ice hockey)
Forbidden romance
Secret romance (coach’s son)
Grumpy/sunshine
Hidden identity
Soulmates
He falls first/harder
I absolutely loved reading this book. Niko who is just adorable with his golden retriever energy and Xander who is broody and delicious make a fantastic love story.
They both have obstacles to overcome, Niko hasn’t come out as gay and Xander has been hurt in the past so timing is pucking bad!
***
BLURB:
The ice is my happy place. My sanctuary. The source of my happiest memories, and the promise of my future. It’s also the reason I’m living a lie.
There’s no better feeling than holding another man in your hand while he comes undone.
Smooth skin wrapped around rigid muscle, a tantalizing mixture of soft and hard that pulses like a heartbeat within your fist. Grunts, moans, and breathless curses are uttered in cadence with the rapid rise and fall of his chest. Strained tendons in his neck.
I’ve yet to see a sexier sight than a man in the throes of his release. The only thing that tops it is when I’m the one who gives it to him.
It’s intoxicating… powerful. For just a moment, I’m in complete control. He’s placed something as sacred as his pleasure in my hands and trusted me to satisfy his needs.
Maybe it’s the fact that men are big and hard that makes watching them fall apart so sexy. Or maybe I just like seeing them vulnerable because society says we shouldn’t be. Whatever the reason, I’m hopelessly drawn to men. Have been since I first learned what attraction was. But that’s my dirty little secret. One that could cost me my shot at the NHL if it comes out.
That’s why he is so dangerous. My lifelong dream is within reach, and now there’s another I want to pursue. If only it weren’t such bad pucking timing.
***
Their budding relationship both as friends are more was beautiful. It reminds me how important healthy relationships are and that they take work. That we shouldn’t be afraid to ask for what we want or need for our own well-being. That we have a choice and making sacrifices for those we love, aren’t actually sacrifices at all.
I will be reading this again. I highly recommend reading it too.
Book #1 in the Colorado Bulldogs
5⭐️+
4.5🌶️
Tropes
MM romance
Sports romance (ice hockey)
Forbidden romance
Secret romance (coach’s son)
Grumpy/sunshine
Hidden identity
Soulmates
He falls first/harder
I absolutely loved reading this book. Niko who is just adorable with his golden retriever energy and Xander who is broody and delicious make a fantastic love story.
They both have obstacles to overcome, Niko hasn’t come out as gay and Xander has been hurt in the past so timing is pucking bad!
***
BLURB:
The ice is my happy place. My sanctuary. The source of my happiest memories, and the promise of my future. It’s also the reason I’m living a lie.
There’s no better feeling than holding another man in your hand while he comes undone.
Smooth skin wrapped around rigid muscle, a tantalizing mixture of soft and hard that pulses like a heartbeat within your fist. Grunts, moans, and breathless curses are uttered in cadence with the rapid rise and fall of his chest. Strained tendons in his neck.
I’ve yet to see a sexier sight than a man in the throes of his release. The only thing that tops it is when I’m the one who gives it to him.
It’s intoxicating… powerful. For just a moment, I’m in complete control. He’s placed something as sacred as his pleasure in my hands and trusted me to satisfy his needs.
Maybe it’s the fact that men are big and hard that makes watching them fall apart so sexy. Or maybe I just like seeing them vulnerable because society says we shouldn’t be. Whatever the reason, I’m hopelessly drawn to men. Have been since I first learned what attraction was. But that’s my dirty little secret. One that could cost me my shot at the NHL if it comes out.
That’s why he is so dangerous. My lifelong dream is within reach, and now there’s another I want to pursue. If only it weren’t such bad pucking timing.
***
Their budding relationship both as friends are more was beautiful. It reminds me how important healthy relationships are and that they take work. That we shouldn’t be afraid to ask for what we want or need for our own well-being. That we have a choice and making sacrifices for those we love, aren’t actually sacrifices at all.
I will be reading this again. I highly recommend reading it too.
August 11, 2023
Bad Pucking Timing by Michele Lenard is one spectacularly steamy MM hockey romance between the hotshot new rookie & his coach’s son. The chemistry, the adorable nerdy connection & emotional bond are undeniable. This is the first Michele Lenard book I’ve read, but I can easily tell you it won’t be my last! The ability to write face-fanning spice along with strong emotional undertones & fantastic storytelling deserves all the props & this one has it all. *insert roaring applause here.*
Bad Pucking Timing surely scores a spot on any top hockey romance read list!
With Bad Pucking Timing, you get
🏒 sports romance
🏒confident, golden retriever meets dark & broody
🏒forbidden/secret romance
🏒spice with enough peppers to make me blush
🏒great friend group
I love romances that have a sense of authenticity to them. The struggles the main characters faced felt realistic & heartbreaking, but it obviously gave them a realness that added even more reason for me to root for them.
Also, I really enjoyed the side characters including his best friend, the teammates & his sister & I would love if any combination of them had their own story!
If any of these tropes are your favorites, I highly recommend adding this one to your TBR now!
Massive thanks to Candi Kane PR for the gifted arc, which I voluntarily read & reviewed.
Bad Pucking Timing surely scores a spot on any top hockey romance read list!
With Bad Pucking Timing, you get
🏒 sports romance
🏒confident, golden retriever meets dark & broody
🏒forbidden/secret romance
🏒spice with enough peppers to make me blush
🏒great friend group
I love romances that have a sense of authenticity to them. The struggles the main characters faced felt realistic & heartbreaking, but it obviously gave them a realness that added even more reason for me to root for them.
Also, I really enjoyed the side characters including his best friend, the teammates & his sister & I would love if any combination of them had their own story!
If any of these tropes are your favorites, I highly recommend adding this one to your TBR now!
Massive thanks to Candi Kane PR for the gifted arc, which I voluntarily read & reviewed.
August 11, 2023
I loved this book! It was so well written you’re immediately
drawn in from the first page. Niko and Xander were such
a great forbidden romance, with one openly gay and one
still dying to come out so he can just be happy. The first
meet was perfectly spicy to the banter and camarderie
between all the characters. Mr. Grumpy Sunshine stole
my heart and experiencing this relationship from the get-
go was beautiful. Lenard did such a great job building this
hockey romance and the characters, even secondary ones,
were, simply put…A+Mazing! This is my first time with Michele,
and my 2nd hockey romance and I loved every second of this
book. Thank you Candi Kane PR and Michele Lenard for the
opportunity to read this fantastic story.
Definitely highly recommended!
drawn in from the first page. Niko and Xander were such
a great forbidden romance, with one openly gay and one
still dying to come out so he can just be happy. The first
meet was perfectly spicy to the banter and camarderie
between all the characters. Mr. Grumpy Sunshine stole
my heart and experiencing this relationship from the get-
go was beautiful. Lenard did such a great job building this
hockey romance and the characters, even secondary ones,
were, simply put…A+Mazing! This is my first time with Michele,
and my 2nd hockey romance and I loved every second of this
book. Thank you Candi Kane PR and Michele Lenard for the
opportunity to read this fantastic story.
Definitely highly recommended!
November 14, 2024
DNF 43%. I went into this with a strong hunch that it was going to be another underwhelming and predictable NA gay hockey romance and I wasn’t wrong. So underwhelming. So predictable. So snoozy and eye-roll-inducing. The fact that it was narrated by two of my lesser favorite narrators didn’t help. Why is Alexander Cendese always in such a rush? And Kirt Graves. Apologies to him and all the folks who love him but he’s just so meh to me. Onward.
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