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Chicago Thunder #1
Trade Deadline
BLAINE
When my name is involved in yet another scandal, I’m told to keep my head down and my stats up.
The trade deadline is looming, and I don’t want to leave Chicago.
But that night, I meet Alex. The guy with the bluest eyes and the kindest smile.
My reputation precedes me, and he’s determined to resist me, but the more time we spend together, the harder it is to deny the chemistry between us.
He’s someone who might make me want to change for the better.
But can we survive the slap shots that come our way, or will my scandalous past hit harder than any defenseman could?
ALEX
Being a lifelong Chicago Thunder fan, I know that Blaine Olsen is trouble.
Because all hockey players are.
He’s a notorious playboy, and I refuse to be another notch on his bedpost.
But when he shows me the part of himself he keeps hidden, it gets harder to resist him.
I can’t afford any distractions though. I’m up to my eyeballs in debt, doing everything I can to keep my head—and family business—above water.
Will Blaine prove me wrong and show me a hockey player could be my Prince Charming after all?
Trade Deadline is a low angst, hockey player/fan sports romance. It has team shenanigans, fast paced hockey, cheesy texting, no third-act break-up and puppies. It is book one in the Chicago Thunder series and can be read as a standalone.
When my name is involved in yet another scandal, I’m told to keep my head down and my stats up.
The trade deadline is looming, and I don’t want to leave Chicago.
But that night, I meet Alex. The guy with the bluest eyes and the kindest smile.
My reputation precedes me, and he’s determined to resist me, but the more time we spend together, the harder it is to deny the chemistry between us.
He’s someone who might make me want to change for the better.
But can we survive the slap shots that come our way, or will my scandalous past hit harder than any defenseman could?
ALEX
Being a lifelong Chicago Thunder fan, I know that Blaine Olsen is trouble.
Because all hockey players are.
He’s a notorious playboy, and I refuse to be another notch on his bedpost.
But when he shows me the part of himself he keeps hidden, it gets harder to resist him.
I can’t afford any distractions though. I’m up to my eyeballs in debt, doing everything I can to keep my head—and family business—above water.
Will Blaine prove me wrong and show me a hockey player could be my Prince Charming after all?
Trade Deadline is a low angst, hockey player/fan sports romance. It has team shenanigans, fast paced hockey, cheesy texting, no third-act break-up and puppies. It is book one in the Chicago Thunder series and can be read as a standalone.
388 pages, Paperback
First published August 17, 2023
526 people are currently reading
3172 people want to read
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September 20, 2023
Blaine holds my face in his hands. “I don’t really care about what the rest of the world thinks of me, but I want you to see the real me. I did hook up a lot; my headcount is higher than I’d like to admit, but it was more because I didn’t think I was worthy of anything else. You make me want to be better.”
“You are worthy, Blaine. You are so worthy.”
the author knew what she was doing when she stated in her own blurb that this doesn’t have a third act conflict, because i had never added a book so fast after reading that. you really can continue the relationship moving forward if you decide to. shocking! i know. and the fact that this is a DEBUT with none of those “mandatory” revelations that add no angst and instead annoyance and frustration? bravo. 👏🏻 authors, take notes.
i adored this. i haven’t been able to read much, let alone an adult romance, and what first stopped me from picking this up was the length of it. 390 pages doesn’t seem like a lot to some people, but my attention span has been very low recently that i’ve barely managed those common 250 average page books. so color me shocked when i started this and ended up reading it in one go, with a few breaks here and there, yet managing to finish it the same day. i was hooked from the start and didn’t want to stop; i found myself wanting to continue reading. it’s a good sign when i’m 20% and want to continue reading, which was the case here.
while trade deadline isn’t anything new, it offers a nice break from the traditional sports romances already published. it’s no/low angst and fluffy, with absolutely no relationship angst whatsoever. there’s nothing stopping the two characters from being together, creating an obstacle that keeps them apart, except crazy fans of the chicago thunders (which happens when you date a celebrity). other than that, the teammates and family members are supportive all around. there’s no homophobia, unsupportive side characters, insulting remarks, and unnecessary comments made on who the characters are and who they love. this was refreshing, simply because this is exactly what i always look for in a romance, despite liking angsty reads as well. because i’m someone who reads for escapism and needs a break from the harsh reality of real life, reading more lighthearted novels with a reality that seems unrealistic but lovely nonetheless is what brings me joy. i can’t have it in real life so i’ll happily indulge in imagination and fantasy.
trade deadline has some common tropes, but still takes it to another level with how the author decided to develop the relationship. blaine is a reformed playboy, trying to bring his name back up after a social media post almost ruined his career. while he’s trying to stay low and down and not bring any ruckus into his life, he can’t help his attraction towards the blue-eyed and blond fan. when his first rejection comes from this stranger, alex, blaine decides to take the challenge and prove to alex he’s in it for the long run.
the one thing i always need in a romance to believe in the relationship is seeing them getting to know each other. whether that’s through jumping into bed first and dealing with feelings after or deciding to take the chance on seeing where it goes from strangers to lovers, i need to see that friendship build up some way, especially in contemporary setting stories. here, even though alex is a chicago thunder fan and can’t imagine how one of the most popular players of the team is asking him out, alex doesn’t jump right into bed with blaine when the opportunity comes. with blaine being the playboy he is and having the reputation he has, alex is scared of being another notch in his bedpost, and doesn’t want to risk being used and hurt again after experiencing bad relationships in college. he politely rejects blaine, which causes a challenge in him, as he figures out different ways to continue teasing blaine.
He’s been so attentive since we met. Nothing like the guy that’s plastered over the bunny blogs, labeled a man-whore and selfish. Saving my ass when Jacob was sick, constantly checking in to see how I am, how Jacob is, what he can do for me, inviting us for Christmas—it's like online Blaine Olsen is a mere illusion compared to the person he is in real life.
i loved seeing the development unfold this way. it is insta love and lust, as the two men are clearly sexually attracted to each other, but the physical relationship doesn’t happen till after the 50% mark, and it was glorious. we see the two engage in different activities where blaine “courts” alex (literally). blaine is curious and interested in alex, and he loves how alex makes him work for it, giving up his playboy status to see how this fanboy might just be the one to settle down with. while there’s a lot sexual attraction and tension between the two, it isn’t acted on till the two feel ready, taking this slow in a moderate level. we’re witnesses to blaine’s cheesy pick up lines, taco dates, facetime calls, gentle kisses, eating takeout food, mini golf, and more. special shout-out to one of my favorite scenes: blaine brings alex coffee, a small bouquet of white tulips, and a panini for alex to eat because alex couldn’t meet him for coffee due to getting caught up in work at the bakery. this scene was so damn sweet that i cried. yup, no surprise there. it’s always the little things.
blaine and alex are lovely characters. i can’t lie and say they’re not that unique from what many of us are used to, but i still don’t see them as every other copy and pasted version of characters on hockey romances. alex is dedicated and passionate for the sport he loves, but he also makes separate time for those he loves. i loved reading a sports romance where characters get to actually enjoy their life. whether unrealistic or not, it was a nice break from the usual, where they’re so focused on their career and job. the author manages to created a balanced relationship between their work and personal life, which added a little bit of balance, allowing the relationship to grow as well since blaine was not just looking forward to hockey. alex is also dedicated to the bakery he runs with his brother, jacob, which he’s been focusing on due to the unfortunate debt they’ve accumulated. still, he’s a hopeful and optimistic character, always finding different ways to cheer those up around him, including himself. he’s able to see through blaine’s playboy persona. he’s similar to blaine in how they both have aspirations, and although different, they’re both the type to not give up. they fit incredibly well, both supportive for different things they want in life.
they’re incredibly understanding of each other too, never doubting their feelings, communicating their doubts and uncertainty. huge shout out to the author for not creating any unnecessary third act conflict or drama. the only potential obstacle of the relationship were the messages alex was starting to deal with on social media. while there was a chance for the author to great angst and cause conflict due to alex not telling blaine at first, it was refreshing to see blaine constantly reassuring alex of how he felt, making sure to remind him how much he loves him. while there’s no official “label” on the relationship, the two are clearly monogamous and together.
“I’d do anything for you, you know that. If you asked me to find you a leopard-printed dinosaur with a unicorn horn, I’d go to the ends of the earth to find you one. Whatever you ask me, I’ll give it to you in a heartbeat.”
all in all, i highly recommend this for when you want a light and fluffy sports romance. read trade deadline if you like: hockey romance, a relationship between a hockey player and his fan, slow burn, reformed playboy, no third act conflict or any of that bullshit, cheesy pick up lines, going out on dates, PUPPIES!, giant hockey men decorating cakes and cupcakes, found family, supportive and loud relatives and friends, some jealousy and possessiveness (like the kind where the player gets upset the other mc is wearing someone else’s jersey number/name and makes them take it off to put theirs on), the contemporary setting of “i’ll burn the world for you” and “i’ll walk through fire for you”, one mc chasing the other and not giving up, and nothing but romantic love.
i’m really looking forward to the future releases, which, although we don’t know who, we have an idea, with all the hints thrown here. i’m not someone who keep up with series and is usually one who waits for the series to be finished. i say i’ll get to it, and then i never do. this is one i’ll clearly be caught up on, since i’ll be looking forward to the potential future couples: ethan and jacob, elliot and nate, and zach and carter!? ethan and jacob are probably gonna be my most anticipated, just because i am a sucker for gentle, grumpy, broody giants, and ethan is exactly that. he’s the captain of the chicago thunders, he’s grumpy, he’s always scowling, he’s broody, but he’s so soft hearted and wants to help those he can? these are my kryptonite characters. 🥹 they’re so common and i love them each time. also, jacob has a bad past with jock players so he’s reluctant, so OF COURSE he’s gonna be paired with the broody hockey captain giant.
and while i LOVED elliot, i don’t know how the relationship with nate would be, just because they’re both pretty loud and snarky. as for zach and carter, i sense best friends to lovers and possible one-sided pining or mutual pining but they’re both idiots. 👀 also, i will say this series is gonna be another one of those where most of the team, if not the whole team, is gay in some way LOL and while this is very unrealistic compared to real life, i don’t care. i love reading books and series like this because it provides a very necessary break from real life. there is only (1) out hockey player in the world right now, so if i need to suspend disbelief for a series revolving around hockey men that don’t care who and what you like, i gladly will. 😌
jodi oliver, if you see this, please continue this pattern of not third act conflict. pretty please and thank you. please don’t disappoint me. i’m holding out hope for you.
I fucking love this man with every atom in my body. He loves me like there’s no tomorrow. He cares for me in ways I didn’t know I needed. He thinks about me and includes me in everything he does, and despite the trouble I’m still receiving on social media, I have never once doubted his love for me. And that’s all I need. All we need. Because we have each other.
“You are worthy, Blaine. You are so worthy.”
the author knew what she was doing when she stated in her own blurb that this doesn’t have a third act conflict, because i had never added a book so fast after reading that. you really can continue the relationship moving forward if you decide to. shocking! i know. and the fact that this is a DEBUT with none of those “mandatory” revelations that add no angst and instead annoyance and frustration? bravo. 👏🏻 authors, take notes.
i adored this. i haven’t been able to read much, let alone an adult romance, and what first stopped me from picking this up was the length of it. 390 pages doesn’t seem like a lot to some people, but my attention span has been very low recently that i’ve barely managed those common 250 average page books. so color me shocked when i started this and ended up reading it in one go, with a few breaks here and there, yet managing to finish it the same day. i was hooked from the start and didn’t want to stop; i found myself wanting to continue reading. it’s a good sign when i’m 20% and want to continue reading, which was the case here.
while trade deadline isn’t anything new, it offers a nice break from the traditional sports romances already published. it’s no/low angst and fluffy, with absolutely no relationship angst whatsoever. there’s nothing stopping the two characters from being together, creating an obstacle that keeps them apart, except crazy fans of the chicago thunders (which happens when you date a celebrity). other than that, the teammates and family members are supportive all around. there’s no homophobia, unsupportive side characters, insulting remarks, and unnecessary comments made on who the characters are and who they love. this was refreshing, simply because this is exactly what i always look for in a romance, despite liking angsty reads as well. because i’m someone who reads for escapism and needs a break from the harsh reality of real life, reading more lighthearted novels with a reality that seems unrealistic but lovely nonetheless is what brings me joy. i can’t have it in real life so i’ll happily indulge in imagination and fantasy.
trade deadline has some common tropes, but still takes it to another level with how the author decided to develop the relationship. blaine is a reformed playboy, trying to bring his name back up after a social media post almost ruined his career. while he’s trying to stay low and down and not bring any ruckus into his life, he can’t help his attraction towards the blue-eyed and blond fan. when his first rejection comes from this stranger, alex, blaine decides to take the challenge and prove to alex he’s in it for the long run.
the one thing i always need in a romance to believe in the relationship is seeing them getting to know each other. whether that’s through jumping into bed first and dealing with feelings after or deciding to take the chance on seeing where it goes from strangers to lovers, i need to see that friendship build up some way, especially in contemporary setting stories. here, even though alex is a chicago thunder fan and can’t imagine how one of the most popular players of the team is asking him out, alex doesn’t jump right into bed with blaine when the opportunity comes. with blaine being the playboy he is and having the reputation he has, alex is scared of being another notch in his bedpost, and doesn’t want to risk being used and hurt again after experiencing bad relationships in college. he politely rejects blaine, which causes a challenge in him, as he figures out different ways to continue teasing blaine.
He’s been so attentive since we met. Nothing like the guy that’s plastered over the bunny blogs, labeled a man-whore and selfish. Saving my ass when Jacob was sick, constantly checking in to see how I am, how Jacob is, what he can do for me, inviting us for Christmas—it's like online Blaine Olsen is a mere illusion compared to the person he is in real life.
i loved seeing the development unfold this way. it is insta love and lust, as the two men are clearly sexually attracted to each other, but the physical relationship doesn’t happen till after the 50% mark, and it was glorious. we see the two engage in different activities where blaine “courts” alex (literally). blaine is curious and interested in alex, and he loves how alex makes him work for it, giving up his playboy status to see how this fanboy might just be the one to settle down with. while there’s a lot sexual attraction and tension between the two, it isn’t acted on till the two feel ready, taking this slow in a moderate level. we’re witnesses to blaine’s cheesy pick up lines, taco dates, facetime calls, gentle kisses, eating takeout food, mini golf, and more. special shout-out to one of my favorite scenes: blaine brings alex coffee, a small bouquet of white tulips, and a panini for alex to eat because alex couldn’t meet him for coffee due to getting caught up in work at the bakery. this scene was so damn sweet that i cried. yup, no surprise there. it’s always the little things.
blaine and alex are lovely characters. i can’t lie and say they’re not that unique from what many of us are used to, but i still don’t see them as every other copy and pasted version of characters on hockey romances. alex is dedicated and passionate for the sport he loves, but he also makes separate time for those he loves. i loved reading a sports romance where characters get to actually enjoy their life. whether unrealistic or not, it was a nice break from the usual, where they’re so focused on their career and job. the author manages to created a balanced relationship between their work and personal life, which added a little bit of balance, allowing the relationship to grow as well since blaine was not just looking forward to hockey. alex is also dedicated to the bakery he runs with his brother, jacob, which he’s been focusing on due to the unfortunate debt they’ve accumulated. still, he’s a hopeful and optimistic character, always finding different ways to cheer those up around him, including himself. he’s able to see through blaine’s playboy persona. he’s similar to blaine in how they both have aspirations, and although different, they’re both the type to not give up. they fit incredibly well, both supportive for different things they want in life.
they’re incredibly understanding of each other too, never doubting their feelings, communicating their doubts and uncertainty. huge shout out to the author for not creating any unnecessary third act conflict or drama. the only potential obstacle of the relationship were the messages alex was starting to deal with on social media. while there was a chance for the author to great angst and cause conflict due to alex not telling blaine at first, it was refreshing to see blaine constantly reassuring alex of how he felt, making sure to remind him how much he loves him. while there’s no official “label” on the relationship, the two are clearly monogamous and together.
“I’d do anything for you, you know that. If you asked me to find you a leopard-printed dinosaur with a unicorn horn, I’d go to the ends of the earth to find you one. Whatever you ask me, I’ll give it to you in a heartbeat.”
all in all, i highly recommend this for when you want a light and fluffy sports romance. read trade deadline if you like: hockey romance, a relationship between a hockey player and his fan, slow burn, reformed playboy, no third act conflict or any of that bullshit, cheesy pick up lines, going out on dates, PUPPIES!, giant hockey men decorating cakes and cupcakes, found family, supportive and loud relatives and friends, some jealousy and possessiveness (like the kind where the player gets upset the other mc is wearing someone else’s jersey number/name and makes them take it off to put theirs on), the contemporary setting of “i’ll burn the world for you” and “i’ll walk through fire for you”, one mc chasing the other and not giving up, and nothing but romantic love.
i’m really looking forward to the future releases, which, although we don’t know who, we have an idea, with all the hints thrown here. i’m not someone who keep up with series and is usually one who waits for the series to be finished. i say i’ll get to it, and then i never do. this is one i’ll clearly be caught up on, since i’ll be looking forward to the potential future couples: ethan and jacob, elliot and nate, and zach and carter!? ethan and jacob are probably gonna be my most anticipated, just because i am a sucker for gentle, grumpy, broody giants, and ethan is exactly that. he’s the captain of the chicago thunders, he’s grumpy, he’s always scowling, he’s broody, but he’s so soft hearted and wants to help those he can? these are my kryptonite characters. 🥹 they’re so common and i love them each time. also, jacob has a bad past with jock players so he’s reluctant, so OF COURSE he’s gonna be paired with the broody hockey captain giant.
and while i LOVED elliot, i don’t know how the relationship with nate would be, just because they’re both pretty loud and snarky. as for zach and carter, i sense best friends to lovers and possible one-sided pining or mutual pining but they’re both idiots. 👀 also, i will say this series is gonna be another one of those where most of the team, if not the whole team, is gay in some way LOL and while this is very unrealistic compared to real life, i don’t care. i love reading books and series like this because it provides a very necessary break from real life. there is only (1) out hockey player in the world right now, so if i need to suspend disbelief for a series revolving around hockey men that don’t care who and what you like, i gladly will. 😌
jodi oliver, if you see this, please continue this pattern of not third act conflict. pretty please and thank you. please don’t disappoint me. i’m holding out hope for you.
I fucking love this man with every atom in my body. He loves me like there’s no tomorrow. He cares for me in ways I didn’t know I needed. He thinks about me and includes me in everything he does, and despite the trouble I’m still receiving on social media, I have never once doubted his love for me. And that’s all I need. All we need. Because we have each other.
December 10, 2025
Welcome to my cooking channel, this is recipe 2, where I roast the shit out of books that are lacking in flavour, spice and depth because it's 2024, and I'm not apologising for how I feel about books anymore because *reasons*. 😇😇😇
I would highly recommend that if you liked this book, maybe don't read my review? I can be really passionate (mean) and I don't want to taint anyone's positive experience, because I CAN COMPLETELY understand why people like this book... I just kind of want people to see a different perspective.
This review will may have mild spoilers, and will be a lot shorter than the last recipe and is quite easy to follow. (only 4 simple steps and then i'll explain all my feelings tehe!😇)
Let us begin💖.
Step 1: Approximately measure out, 1/4 pages and plot from Rachel Reid's "Game Changers" and mix in 1/4 pages and plot "Shameless Puckboy" by Eden Finley.
This will get your base ready, and all in all, will tell you everything about this book that you need to know right here in step 1.
If you have read these two books mentioned, you have pretty much read Trade deadline and you can just move on to bigger and better books on your tbr.
Step 2: Add one half of the love interest, preferably in the flavouring of "financially fucked MC" and the other half "a very rich hockey star" to your base, because that trope is not completely overused at all and will add real depth and interest like it's never been done before..
Step 3: With whatever is left over for your remaining word count, ensure filling the rest of book with generic sentence structures 🙄, dorky- overused- always lame cliche's 🙄 (like asking someone "how did you know that they were the one?" are we still doing that? no. absolutely not Gary.) and MC's that cum too quickly.
Step 4: Bake yourself in an oven for 5-8 hours, because it would be a better use of your time than reading this.
Ooft, harsh, I know. But life is too short for books that are SO MID.
I've already forgotten most of it and it's been like 3 hours.
This book is FINE. It's SO FINE. But that's it? It's fine. It exists. It will be forgotten, probably by tomorrow. I just think like... you know that book you've been putting off for weeks that sounds suuuuper good but you weren't ready to commit, read that one first and come back to this when your tbr is finished?
Trade deadline has literally not one second of effort put into its creation.
One MC owns a bakery with his brother, works too hard, and is in a lot of debt - (he's literally Kip from Game Changers)
The other, a hockey star who got into a sex scandal and needs to "clean up his reputation" to avoid getting traded, so naturally, he falls inlove with the first person he sees after being told that he needs to pull his head in - (he's literally Oskar from Puckboys)
If you haven't read those books, and just need something SUPER easy on the old noggin after a hard day, maybe this will be the book for you?
Pros
- The teams mascot is a dog
- I did like the text exchanges between MC's, and even though it was insta-love, it felt okay because they didn't fuck right away.
- Short chapters
- Easy on the noggin
- There's actually two dogs in this book
- If you skip, you may find a book that brings more joy.
- No 3rd act break up
- I can understand how people find it easy to read and cute? I guess?
- Low angst
Cons
- MC cums on his own steering wheel instead of walking 3 paces into his house
- The most basic mid plot you've ever read
- Is the definition of "fine"
- The element of this book, that it is seemingly named after; i.e. "Trade deal" was about 0.00001% of the stories plot.
- Smut not overly well written/developed
- My all time most hated type of epilogue -
- Cliché tropes, cliché writing, no original thoughts, brain rot imminent.
- Has 39 chapters and an epilogue
- Uninspiring MC's
- Low angst (I find this a pro and a con)
I said what I saiddddddd, hugs and kisses.
MAY YOU READ IT AND ENJOY AND FEEL HAPPINESS BECAUSE THATS ALL I WANT IN THIS UNIVERSE FOR YOU ALL💖💖💖
I would highly recommend that if you liked this book, maybe don't read my review? I can be really passionate (mean) and I don't want to taint anyone's positive experience, because I CAN COMPLETELY understand why people like this book... I just kind of want people to see a different perspective.
This review will may have mild spoilers, and will be a lot shorter than the last recipe and is quite easy to follow. (only 4 simple steps and then i'll explain all my feelings tehe!😇)
Let us begin💖.
Step 1: Approximately measure out, 1/4 pages and plot from Rachel Reid's "Game Changers" and mix in 1/4 pages and plot "Shameless Puckboy" by Eden Finley.
This will get your base ready, and all in all, will tell you everything about this book that you need to know right here in step 1.
If you have read these two books mentioned, you have pretty much read Trade deadline and you can just move on to bigger and better books on your tbr.
Step 2: Add one half of the love interest, preferably in the flavouring of "financially fucked MC" and the other half "a very rich hockey star" to your base, because that trope is not completely overused at all and will add real depth and interest like it's never been done before..
Step 3: With whatever is left over for your remaining word count, ensure filling the rest of book with generic sentence structures 🙄, dorky- overused- always lame cliche's 🙄 (like asking someone "how did you know that they were the one?" are we still doing that? no. absolutely not Gary.) and MC's that cum too quickly.
Step 4: Bake yourself in an oven for 5-8 hours, because it would be a better use of your time than reading this.
Ooft, harsh, I know. But life is too short for books that are SO MID.
I've already forgotten most of it and it's been like 3 hours.
This book is FINE. It's SO FINE. But that's it? It's fine. It exists. It will be forgotten, probably by tomorrow. I just think like... you know that book you've been putting off for weeks that sounds suuuuper good but you weren't ready to commit, read that one first and come back to this when your tbr is finished?
Trade deadline has literally not one second of effort put into its creation.
One MC owns a bakery with his brother, works too hard, and is in a lot of debt - (he's literally Kip from Game Changers)
The other, a hockey star who got into a sex scandal and needs to "clean up his reputation" to avoid getting traded, so naturally, he falls inlove with the first person he sees after being told that he needs to pull his head in - (he's literally Oskar from Puckboys)
If you haven't read those books, and just need something SUPER easy on the old noggin after a hard day, maybe this will be the book for you?
Pros
- The teams mascot is a dog
- I did like the text exchanges between MC's, and even though it was insta-love, it felt okay because they didn't fuck right away.
- Short chapters
- Easy on the noggin
- There's actually two dogs in this book
- If you skip, you may find a book that brings more joy.
- No 3rd act break up
- I can understand how people find it easy to read and cute? I guess?
- Low angst
Cons
- MC cums on his own steering wheel instead of walking 3 paces into his house
- The most basic mid plot you've ever read
- Is the definition of "fine"
- The element of this book, that it is seemingly named after; i.e. "Trade deal" was about 0.00001% of the stories plot.
- Smut not overly well written/developed
- My all time most hated type of epilogue -
- Cliché tropes, cliché writing, no original thoughts, brain rot imminent.
- Has 39 chapters and an epilogue
- Uninspiring MC's
- Low angst (I find this a pro and a con)
I said what I saiddddddd, hugs and kisses.
MAY YOU READ IT AND ENJOY AND FEEL HAPPINESS BECAUSE THATS ALL I WANT IN THIS UNIVERSE FOR YOU ALL💖💖💖
February 10, 2024
Reread: 08/02/24
🥰💖buddy (re)read with my soul sista Brooke !!!🏒🌩️
Straight up, I've fallen in love with Jodi Oliver's Chicago Thunder Hockey series! It was an easy thing really...soft, steamy and low-angst sweet (my triple "S"), i honestly had no chance! On top of which, this was a debut, and i love to celebrate adorable men who fall in love...but also, it's a romance that includes some ACTUAL HOCKEY! Ahhhh so good I cry.
I've been grinning non-stop since I hastily latched onto this reread, warm and giddy with the love vibes, like I'm the one falling in love... again. I tumbled into this love story and this endearing found family just as easily as the first time. I'm just so enamoured by this whole vibe and i can't get enough of it. But I’m simple like that.
I was snort laughing (just like Alex did) at their first silly texts, because first love butterflies. I felt the unbearable weight of financial burden, because life. I felt the urgency at Jacob’s Delicious Desserts, because I worked at a bakery for a while. I felt the wholehearted support of Alex and Blaine's friends and families, because I've friends like Nate and Ethan, and they're 100% life savers when the going gets tough! and YES my parents are kick ass!
AND OF COURSE I FELT ALL OF THE SPORTING BECAUSE I LOVE NHL HOCKEY!🏒🏆
Ahhhhhh and the EPILOGUE!!! Holy heart eyes, Obi-Wan!!! My gawd hi even though it's predictable and smooshy, it's still romantic as fk and i loved it so much!!! Shout out to Boomer and Ernie who are furbaby best boys and puppy love is life🐶🐾
Is Trade Deadline reinventing the wheel? No…no one in the genre is so swallow that. But is it enjoyable for what it is…a low angst sweet serve up of hockey boys in love and no one collapsing into 3rd act madness? Hello yes. That’s the vibe.
This is no carnival drama fuckfest. There’s no homophobic backlash or caustic bigotry! Bless. It’s a romance where lovers are falling in love, being in love, combining their joys into a mix of families and friends and celebrating the downtime between hockey games with feelings.
Super excited to see what Off Season has to offer, because I just loved everything about Trade Deadline, and I’m looking forward to devouring Ethan and Jacob’s deliciousness because I loved them both in this!
For a debut, this was a wonderful surprise for me, and I am Stanley Cup happy with everything I’ve read so far! Jodi Oliver is very talented and I’m a mega fan of her Chicago Thunder Hockey boys and I can’t wait to gobble up everything she has to come for this fun, sweet and sexy series in the future!
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1st read: 25/07/23
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
🥰💖buddy (re)read with my soul sista Brooke !!!🏒🌩️
Straight up, I've fallen in love with Jodi Oliver's Chicago Thunder Hockey series! It was an easy thing really...soft, steamy and low-angst sweet (my triple "S"), i honestly had no chance! On top of which, this was a debut, and i love to celebrate adorable men who fall in love...but also, it's a romance that includes some ACTUAL HOCKEY! Ahhhh so good I cry.
I've been grinning non-stop since I hastily latched onto this reread, warm and giddy with the love vibes, like I'm the one falling in love... again. I tumbled into this love story and this endearing found family just as easily as the first time. I'm just so enamoured by this whole vibe and i can't get enough of it. But I’m simple like that.
I was snort laughing (just like Alex did) at their first silly texts, because first love butterflies. I felt the unbearable weight of financial burden, because life. I felt the urgency at Jacob’s Delicious Desserts, because I worked at a bakery for a while. I felt the wholehearted support of Alex and Blaine's friends and families, because I've friends like Nate and Ethan, and they're 100% life savers when the going gets tough! and YES my parents are kick ass!
AND OF COURSE I FELT ALL OF THE SPORTING BECAUSE I LOVE NHL HOCKEY!🏒🏆
Ahhhhhh and the EPILOGUE!!! Holy heart eyes, Obi-Wan!!! My gawd hi even though it's predictable and smooshy, it's still romantic as fk and i loved it so much!!! Shout out to Boomer and Ernie who are furbaby best boys and puppy love is life🐶🐾
Is Trade Deadline reinventing the wheel? No…no one in the genre is so swallow that. But is it enjoyable for what it is…a low angst sweet serve up of hockey boys in love and no one collapsing into 3rd act madness? Hello yes. That’s the vibe.
This is no carnival drama fuckfest. There’s no homophobic backlash or caustic bigotry! Bless. It’s a romance where lovers are falling in love, being in love, combining their joys into a mix of families and friends and celebrating the downtime between hockey games with feelings.
Super excited to see what Off Season has to offer, because I just loved everything about Trade Deadline, and I’m looking forward to devouring Ethan and Jacob’s deliciousness because I loved them both in this!
For a debut, this was a wonderful surprise for me, and I am Stanley Cup happy with everything I’ve read so far! Jodi Oliver is very talented and I’m a mega fan of her Chicago Thunder Hockey boys and I can’t wait to gobble up everything she has to come for this fun, sweet and sexy series in the future!
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1st read: 25/07/23
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
June 21, 2024
5 Stars
I was shocked-stupid to find out this wonderfully charming and addictive M/M hockey romance was a debut novel. Honestly, it should be illegal to be this good on a first (official) try!! **bravo**
Blaine is a hot-shot hockey star with a bit of a playboy reputation, with the ladies and the fellas. After one media debacle too many, Blaine’s management urge caution, because the last thing Blaine needs is for (another) sex scandal to result in a trade—especially since he and his baby bro are finally playing professionally on the same team.
Naturally, Blaine lasts all of about 12 hours before he sees an angel of a man sitting in the stands at his latest game and simply cannot resist temptation. The insta-lust is instant, and the sweet stranger seems just as smitten with Blaine… up until he turns down his advances at a bar, post-game.
Alex is a HUGE fan of the Chicago Thunder ice hockey team, but being hit on by one of the teams biggest stars seems like something out of a dream. Blaine seems sweet and charming, but everyone knows his reputation—the type of reputation that Alex has been actively avoiding in his dating life. He has way too many things keeping him busy—co-running a family business that is struggling and in debt—and the last thing Alex needs or has time for is a hockey player looking to score another notch on his bedpost, even if said hockey player does seem genuine, and sure is persistent!
Blaine may hook up a lot, but he’s not arrogant about it and he always treats his partners with respect, but sadly the same can’t always be said for the way they treat him in return (many posting about him on social media after their encounters). His reputation is mostly misconstrued, though, with no one but his dearest family and closest friends on the team really knowing what a down-to-earth, sweet man he truly is. And once he meets Alex, Blaine knows deep in his gut that this time is different—that his rapidly growing feelings for the kind and shy Alex might actually be endgame sort-of feelings; feelings he’s willing to fight for.
This book was so damn sweet and romantic. I LOVED the progression of Alex and Blaine’s relationship. It was full of apprehension and vulnerability and all the best butterflies that come with the getting-to-know-you moments that make up the groundwork for good, solid relationships. These two together were a simply a beautiful pair. The sex was HOT, when it eventually happened, but it was in the smaller, tender moments that they really shone, especially when they were showing unwavering support for one another when the stresses of their professional lives weighed heavy, proving clearly just how good they were together.
Beyond the gorgeous relationship, the story was low-angst, engaging in a “can’t-stop-won’t-stop” kind of way, and impressively written for a debut. It was also funny and joyful and filled with a support-cast that left me smiling and absolutely DESPERATE for sequels… like, seriously, imma need ALL THE SEQUELS!!!
Oh, oh!! And there is no third-act breakup, people. I repeat: THERE IS NO THIRD-ACT BREAKUP. Hallelujah! Honestly, if anyone needed any more convincing that this is a worthwhile MM hockey romance, that would have probably done the trick, amirite?!
In all seriousness, Trade Deadline was a grand-slam of a debut read for me. I enjoyed every second of it and I can’t wait to see what Jodi Oliver does next! (Pls, sweet lord, pls, write more!!)
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! <3
I was shocked-stupid to find out this wonderfully charming and addictive M/M hockey romance was a debut novel. Honestly, it should be illegal to be this good on a first (official) try!! **bravo**
Blaine is a hot-shot hockey star with a bit of a playboy reputation, with the ladies and the fellas. After one media debacle too many, Blaine’s management urge caution, because the last thing Blaine needs is for (another) sex scandal to result in a trade—especially since he and his baby bro are finally playing professionally on the same team.
Naturally, Blaine lasts all of about 12 hours before he sees an angel of a man sitting in the stands at his latest game and simply cannot resist temptation. The insta-lust is instant, and the sweet stranger seems just as smitten with Blaine… up until he turns down his advances at a bar, post-game.
Alex is a HUGE fan of the Chicago Thunder ice hockey team, but being hit on by one of the teams biggest stars seems like something out of a dream. Blaine seems sweet and charming, but everyone knows his reputation—the type of reputation that Alex has been actively avoiding in his dating life. He has way too many things keeping him busy—co-running a family business that is struggling and in debt—and the last thing Alex needs or has time for is a hockey player looking to score another notch on his bedpost, even if said hockey player does seem genuine, and sure is persistent!
Blaine may hook up a lot, but he’s not arrogant about it and he always treats his partners with respect, but sadly the same can’t always be said for the way they treat him in return (many posting about him on social media after their encounters). His reputation is mostly misconstrued, though, with no one but his dearest family and closest friends on the team really knowing what a down-to-earth, sweet man he truly is. And once he meets Alex, Blaine knows deep in his gut that this time is different—that his rapidly growing feelings for the kind and shy Alex might actually be endgame sort-of feelings; feelings he’s willing to fight for.
This book was so damn sweet and romantic. I LOVED the progression of Alex and Blaine’s relationship. It was full of apprehension and vulnerability and all the best butterflies that come with the getting-to-know-you moments that make up the groundwork for good, solid relationships. These two together were a simply a beautiful pair. The sex was HOT, when it eventually happened, but it was in the smaller, tender moments that they really shone, especially when they were showing unwavering support for one another when the stresses of their professional lives weighed heavy, proving clearly just how good they were together.
Beyond the gorgeous relationship, the story was low-angst, engaging in a “can’t-stop-won’t-stop” kind of way, and impressively written for a debut. It was also funny and joyful and filled with a support-cast that left me smiling and absolutely DESPERATE for sequels… like, seriously, imma need ALL THE SEQUELS!!!
Oh, oh!! And there is no third-act breakup, people. I repeat: THERE IS NO THIRD-ACT BREAKUP. Hallelujah! Honestly, if anyone needed any more convincing that this is a worthwhile MM hockey romance, that would have probably done the trick, amirite?!
In all seriousness, Trade Deadline was a grand-slam of a debut read for me. I enjoyed every second of it and I can’t wait to see what Jodi Oliver does next! (Pls, sweet lord, pls, write more!!)
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! <3
March 26, 2024
reread 03/2024
Liked it a bit less the second time around, skipped some sex scenes and overly sappy monologues.
Still a sweet mm hockey romance full of feelings, no miscomunication, no drama, no third act breakup.
3,5 stars.
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read 10/2023
4 stars.
Sweet and enjoyable, with funny banter (texts), and lots of efford from one MC Blaine (hockey player) to win over the other MC Alex (who was a massive fan, but wasn't keen on hooking up with a cocky hockey player).
That is, it was an enjoyable read once I got over the 10% mark... until then Blaine was a cocky self-centered player, and every woman who had sex with a hockey player was called "bunny".
Blaine did quite a 180 after falling in lust with Alex, upon seeing him during warm-ups (insert eye-roll), but I just went with it and had a fun few hours reading how Blaine and Alex fell in love.
There was no (!) third act break up (the author even mentions this in the blurb, how great is that?!?), the story was low angst, and high on sweet and loving gestures and proclamations (the further the story went, the intenser the love, but it didn't get too cheesy, thankfully!).
Liked it a bit less the second time around, skipped some sex scenes and overly sappy monologues.
Still a sweet mm hockey romance full of feelings, no miscomunication, no drama, no third act breakup.
3,5 stars.
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read 10/2023
4 stars.
Sweet and enjoyable, with funny banter (texts), and lots of efford from one MC Blaine (hockey player) to win over the other MC Alex (who was a massive fan, but wasn't keen on hooking up with a cocky hockey player).
That is, it was an enjoyable read once I got over the 10% mark... until then Blaine was a cocky self-centered player, and every woman who had sex with a hockey player was called "bunny".
Blaine did quite a 180 after falling in lust with Alex, upon seeing him during warm-ups (insert eye-roll), but I just went with it and had a fun few hours reading how Blaine and Alex fell in love.
There was no (!) third act break up (the author even mentions this in the blurb, how great is that?!?), the story was low angst, and high on sweet and loving gestures and proclamations (the further the story went, the intenser the love, but it didn't get too cheesy, thankfully!).
October 31, 2023
DNF 60%
Please don’t look at me like that. Nobody hates my romance streak more than I do.
If I had more free time, maybe I would have finished this. It’s a cute story, they are cute characters, but the fact that it’s quite insta-lovish keeps bugging me. I didn’t buy how Blaine became obsessed with Alex even though they had barely talked, he basically saw him during a match and decided to go for the cute fan whose drink was spilled because of him.
If you want the fantasy of a fan/hockey player romance, go for it, but I’m not into that trope and I’m way too skeptical to be sold with this type of execution; I need to see the reason why they are so into the other when they barely know each other. I wished they slowed down to a more realistic pace. That being said, I may try other books by the author because this is their debut and I liked their writing. I just don’t have the time right now to stick with books that aren’t really doing it for me.
Please don’t look at me like that. Nobody hates my romance streak more than I do.
If I had more free time, maybe I would have finished this. It’s a cute story, they are cute characters, but the fact that it’s quite insta-lovish keeps bugging me. I didn’t buy how Blaine became obsessed with Alex even though they had barely talked, he basically saw him during a match and decided to go for the cute fan whose drink was spilled because of him.
If you want the fantasy of a fan/hockey player romance, go for it, but I’m not into that trope and I’m way too skeptical to be sold with this type of execution; I need to see the reason why they are so into the other when they barely know each other. I wished they slowed down to a more realistic pace. That being said, I may try other books by the author because this is their debut and I liked their writing. I just don’t have the time right now to stick with books that aren’t really doing it for me.
April 3, 2024
This book was so ridiculous but I still ate it up.What I loved most about it was that the mcs didn't have sex until like 50% of the book when they were already dating for a while
January 3, 2025
Absolutely adorable 😍 This felt so wholesome and sweet, I smiled almost the entire time I was reading.
Blaine and Alex were just too cute! I love how they built their relationship by spending time together instead of rushing into the sexual side of things. Emotional connections are way more interesting to me than sex scenes so I was very happy with the balance.
The whole thing with Blaine demanding Alex wear his jersey and not the one he already owned had me giggling too.
I also loved the side characters. I need a book for Elliott so badly, but I'm also looking forward to reading Ethan and Jacob, plus Zach and Carter's stories.
Blaine and Alex were just too cute! I love how they built their relationship by spending time together instead of rushing into the sexual side of things. Emotional connections are way more interesting to me than sex scenes so I was very happy with the balance.
The whole thing with Blaine demanding Alex wear his jersey and not the one he already owned had me giggling too.
I also loved the side characters. I need a book for Elliott so badly, but I'm also looking forward to reading Ethan and Jacob, plus Zach and Carter's stories.
October 8, 2023
The book-equivalent to a donut with sugar frosting, whipped cream, unicorn sprinkles, caramel sauce and chocolate flakes on top.
And you know what goes well with caramel sauce? A pinch if salt. Or chilli. And that’s what I’ve been missing here, but seeing as this looks like the authors debut book, I decided against nitpicking.
There’s a reason I went with the donut-analogy here: Alex (and his brother Jacob) own a dessert-shop. They’re both sweet, poor, and work themselves to the bone to keep their business afloat.
Blaine on the other hand is rich, a successful NHS hockey player, (in)famous for hooking up with puck bunnies.
All of that changes when Blaine (after a foursome that blew up in his face) sets his sight on Alex - and gets rejected.
Honestly, there’s so much insta love/lust sweetness in this book that it might give you cavities, but to my surprise, I found myself going with the flow once I got into the right mood. I admit, I was ready to put it to the side in the beginning, but I found myself in need of some totally angst free sweetness, and that’s exactly what this book delivers. If you go in with the right expectation, you’ll end up enjoying it.
And one thing I absolutely loved: the cheesy pickup-line texts 😅
I skimmed a bit, and occasionally REALLY would have loved a bit of tension (helllooooo? This would have been PERFECT for some stalker fan drama, or a bit of “keeping it under wraps but getting outed” - there were a ton of possibilities there!) but I had a good time reading it.
And just when you think things couldn’t get any fluffier, the author threw an animal shelter/puppies in the mix 😂
3 syrupy sweet stars for a well written debut!
And you know what goes well with caramel sauce? A pinch if salt. Or chilli. And that’s what I’ve been missing here, but seeing as this looks like the authors debut book, I decided against nitpicking.
There’s a reason I went with the donut-analogy here: Alex (and his brother Jacob) own a dessert-shop. They’re both sweet, poor, and work themselves to the bone to keep their business afloat.
Blaine on the other hand is rich, a successful NHS hockey player, (in)famous for hooking up with puck bunnies.
All of that changes when Blaine (after a foursome that blew up in his face) sets his sight on Alex - and gets rejected.
Honestly, there’s so much insta love/lust sweetness in this book that it might give you cavities, but to my surprise, I found myself going with the flow once I got into the right mood. I admit, I was ready to put it to the side in the beginning, but I found myself in need of some totally angst free sweetness, and that’s exactly what this book delivers. If you go in with the right expectation, you’ll end up enjoying it.
And one thing I absolutely loved: the cheesy pickup-line texts 😅
I skimmed a bit, and occasionally REALLY would have loved a bit of tension (helllooooo? This would have been PERFECT for some stalker fan drama, or a bit of “keeping it under wraps but getting outed” - there were a ton of possibilities there!) but I had a good time reading it.
And just when you think things couldn’t get any fluffier, the author threw an animal shelter/puppies in the mix 😂
3 syrupy sweet stars for a well written debut!
November 17, 2024
I'm late to the game with this one but finally got around to reading it. The first 20% or so was a struggle. The writing is a bit clunky and, for lack of a better word, basic.
There was a great deal of sex, at the expense of communication and interaction.
The characters, main and secondary, are fun and charming, but I didn't understand why Blaine chose Alex of all people. Besides Alex being cute, what made him so special?
This is fiction, so I don't expect full realism, but an out & proud bi hockey player being reprimanded for fooling around with three women yet no one bats an eye that he's dating a man? Come on. The NHL is going backwards in terms of LGBQT rights. They just announced a "Don't Say Gay" policy.
I don't need homophobia all up in my romance, but this was hugely unrealistic.
This story is all cupcakes and sprinkles: insta love with no conflict or tension between Blaine and Alex.
The HEA is oh so very sweet and romantic!
As the story progressed, I enjoyed it more. I'll give the second book in the series a try.
There was a great deal of sex, at the expense of communication and interaction.
The characters, main and secondary, are fun and charming, but I didn't understand why Blaine chose Alex of all people. Besides Alex being cute, what made him so special?
This is fiction, so I don't expect full realism, but an out & proud bi hockey player being reprimanded for fooling around with three women yet no one bats an eye that he's dating a man? Come on. The NHL is going backwards in terms of LGBQT rights. They just announced a "Don't Say Gay" policy.
I don't need homophobia all up in my romance, but this was hugely unrealistic.
This story is all cupcakes and sprinkles: insta love with no conflict or tension between Blaine and Alex.
The HEA is oh so very sweet and romantic!
As the story progressed, I enjoyed it more. I'll give the second book in the series a try.
July 26, 2023
The beginning of a new MM hockey romance series!
This is definitely one of those ode to hockey books where you can tell the author genuinely loves the game and everything surrounding it. Good debut.
Random thought: I love the term “morning skate”. Hockey is so cute.
Blaine is a reckless hockey player who has trust issues and needs to clean up his image.
Alex is a sweet baker and super #1 hockey fan who has been hurt by bad boy athletes before.
This was no angst, insta-attraction/lust and I didn’t mind because the MCs had chemistry but it still takes time for the relationship to develop and things to get physical.
Side characters just as likable and three dimensional as the mains. Elliot, Blaine’s twin brother, was my fave. Lots of set-up in this book for future books in the series so I’m looking forward to those.
It could have been chopped down a bit in length and the dialogue starts to venture into sap land.
ARC received from gay romance reviews
This is definitely one of those ode to hockey books where you can tell the author genuinely loves the game and everything surrounding it. Good debut.
Random thought: I love the term “morning skate”. Hockey is so cute.
Blaine is a reckless hockey player who has trust issues and needs to clean up his image.
Alex is a sweet baker and super #1 hockey fan who has been hurt by bad boy athletes before.
This was no angst, insta-attraction/lust and I didn’t mind because the MCs had chemistry but it still takes time for the relationship to develop and things to get physical.
Side characters just as likable and three dimensional as the mains. Elliot, Blaine’s twin brother, was my fave. Lots of set-up in this book for future books in the series so I’m looking forward to those.
It could have been chopped down a bit in length and the dialogue starts to venture into sap land.
ARC received from gay romance reviews
March 27, 2024
4.5
I really enjoyed this! Really liked both characters, the story was really sweet, good communication and no miscommunication driven third act conflict. Very enjoyable to read, a lot of good funny parts- really loved all the side characters and it so excited for their books.
At times, however, the dialogue was way too cheesy and cringey for me. Especially the texts, there was one text exchange I could barely read I had too much second hand embarrassment. I know some of it was purposeful because Blaine liked to use cheesy pick up lines, but it was too much and almost unreadable for me at times.
Overall though I really did love it and am looking forward to more of the series!
February 10, 2024
⭐️ 4.5 stars ⭐️
Celebrating this win and my first buddy read with my soul sis Ivana ❤️
The swoon factor in this one was off the charts. Former playboy Blaine finds Mr. Perfect Alex, becomes all sweet and gooey. Love it.
I really loved the pacing — no insta-lust or straight down to business. Instead, they took their time getting to know each other, going on cute romantic dates, slowly falling for the other.
This was just a dive into a pool of fluff and sweetness. Expect no third/act breakup, no unnecessary drama or angst.
The smut wasn’t anything groundbreaking, but what made it still enjoyable was how much you could feel the passion between the characters and how much theywanted needed the other.
The side characters were all intriguing in their own way, and I hope they all get to tell their story in this delightful hockey series.
Tropes and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Hockey player vs baker
- Phone sex
- Rimming
- Strict top/bottom
Celebrating this win and my first buddy read with my soul sis Ivana ❤️
“Are you gonna score another goal for me?”
“Baby, I’ll win the whole game for you.”
The swoon factor in this one was off the charts. Former playboy Blaine finds Mr. Perfect Alex, becomes all sweet and gooey. Love it.
I really loved the pacing — no insta-lust or straight down to business. Instead, they took their time getting to know each other, going on cute romantic dates, slowly falling for the other.
This was just a dive into a pool of fluff and sweetness. Expect no third/act breakup, no unnecessary drama or angst.
The smut wasn’t anything groundbreaking, but what made it still enjoyable was how much you could feel the passion between the characters and how much they
«Because Blaine Olsen might be trouble, but he might be the best kind of trouble.»
The side characters were all intriguing in their own way, and I hope they all get to tell their story in this delightful hockey series.
Tropes and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Hockey player vs baker
- Phone sex
- Rimming
- Strict top/bottom
November 13, 2025
Isn’t it incredible when a book just… chooses joy? No coming out arc, no awakening, no heavy emotional gauntlet. Just two characters existing, experiencing the world, and falling in love. Trade Deadline is absolutely a vibes-over-plot book, and normally I’d be the first to complain about the lack of conflict, but watching Blaine and Alex simply find happiness with each other feels so refreshing.
Some stories are so genuinely sweet they catch you off guard and overwhelm you in the best way. I cried more than once just from pure happiness.
If you want something light, easy, and completely angst-free, this is the book for you. It’s soft, joyful, and exactly the kind of comfort read you reach for when you want love without pain.
Some stories are so genuinely sweet they catch you off guard and overwhelm you in the best way. I cried more than once just from pure happiness.
If you want something light, easy, and completely angst-free, this is the book for you. It’s soft, joyful, and exactly the kind of comfort read you reach for when you want love without pain.
Read
December 12, 2023DNF. too insta lust/love. bland and basic. yawn. review over
September 24, 2023
This book was super cute. Definitely read it if you’re in the mood for something sweet and spicy. Low angst!
July 31, 2023
For a debut book, this is an incredibly well polished piece with a great plot and two fabulous main characters.
It's relatively angst free, and does occasionally stray into overly flowery dialogue declarations but I forgave a lot of that because Alex and Blaine were just so cute together!
The plot follows a commonly used trope but with a small twist, Blaine is needing to clean up his reputation when he's rocked to his core on seeing Alex at a Thunder game.
He's the one doing the chasing as Alex is understandably wary of a hot shock ice hockey player being interested in him.
I loved so much of this book. Not only the clear paean to the Windy City, which is home to the Thunder and Alex's bakery he runs with his older brother, but also the strong sense of family between the hockey guys.
There's plenty of potential for more stories, but none of the introduction to these other possibilities feels shoehorned in.
Overall this was an excellent read and a new series and author I'm looking forward to hearing more from.
#ARC kindly received from the author via GRR in return for an honest and unbiased review.
It's relatively angst free, and does occasionally stray into overly flowery dialogue declarations but I forgave a lot of that because Alex and Blaine were just so cute together!
The plot follows a commonly used trope but with a small twist, Blaine is needing to clean up his reputation when he's rocked to his core on seeing Alex at a Thunder game.
He's the one doing the chasing as Alex is understandably wary of a hot shock ice hockey player being interested in him.
I loved so much of this book. Not only the clear paean to the Windy City, which is home to the Thunder and Alex's bakery he runs with his older brother, but also the strong sense of family between the hockey guys.
There's plenty of potential for more stories, but none of the introduction to these other possibilities feels shoehorned in.
Overall this was an excellent read and a new series and author I'm looking forward to hearing more from.
#ARC kindly received from the author via GRR in return for an honest and unbiased review.
December 20, 2023
❝ I want to make him laugh and smile every day, for all the days I'm on this earth. I want to be the one who makes him smile all the fucking time, and I will do anything to make sure that happens. ❞
when miss swift said, ''in a world full of boys, he's a gentleman.'' all i could think about is blaine olsen of chicago thunder hockey team! the hype is right and well-deserved for this was amazingly fun. it was light, full of highly likable characters, and more importantly very very swoony! my only 'criticism' was the story being too smooth-sailing from start to finish but at the end i didn't truly care because my enjoyment was just high and mighty. my eyes were laser-focused for the sweetness and the charm this book gave. excited for the next one!
November 28, 2023
I absolutely adored this, I could not put it down. What a wonderful debut novel! 😍
Alex and Blaine were absolutely perfect together. Their chemistry was fire right off the bat and I was invested right away.
Also their romance really carried this story, because was there much plot? Not really, but did I care? NopE! Because their romance was the plot, basically, their romance was so goOD!
There was some subplots with Alex and his brother Jacob's bakery business being in trouble, and Blaine needed to "pretty up" his image after a scandal at the beginning of this, but they weren't the driving plot.
Most of this was just a wonderful, fluff filled ride and I LOVED it. It was done in just that perfect way where the romance was SO intriguing and interesting and lovable that it kept me invested all the way through, and a somewhat lack of plot didn't bother me in the slightest, because it was building and Alex and Blaine's love story in such an amazing way.
They also live in a world without homophobia, it seems, because not once did they even encounter any, even in the hyper masculine world of hockey. Maybe in this world Blaine's already been out for years, although at first Alex wasn't sure if Blaine was even into guys, so methinks no. That he just is with who he wants to be and it's not made a big deal, his coming out. Meaning they're a lot farther in terms of bettering homophobia in this world.
Which is a delight, as we could just focus on these two and their love, not more homophobia, as realistic as it would be. But not every sport romance has to deal with that, especially in a fictional world where same sex relationships can just BE (that would be the dream, wouldn't it?)
After Alex turns down Blaine at first, because he doesn't want to be another notch on his bedpost, Blaine is shocked to say the least. Because he's so hot and sex, and a famous hockey player, that he never gets turned down.
But there's more to it. There's more to Alex that Blaine can't quite put his finger on at first. But when he and his hockey buddies end up going to the bakery Alex and his brother own, it's gotta be fate, and Blaine doesn't let the opportunity pass him by to make something more with Alex.
Alex is weary at first, because of being cheated on repeatedly by hockey jocks in the past, but Blaine really is just a sweetheart underneath the bravado, and he proves it to Alex fairly quickly. It doesn't take long for Alex to be a puddle of goo whenever Blaine does or say something sweet to him. I don't blame him, either.
These two are just two sweet men who fall head over heels in love with each other, and one just happens to play hockey.
And it's written so well that I was just gushing over these two, and a potential lack of plot didn't matter to me.
And the secondary characters were so well done too, setting up their romances as well. I can't wait for Jacob and Ethan's - Blaine's teammate - romance next. If it's written anything like this one, I know I'll absolutely love it.
What an amazing debut novel. Just all the stars for this lovely book!
Onto the next! 🥰😘😍
Alex and Blaine were absolutely perfect together. Their chemistry was fire right off the bat and I was invested right away.
Also their romance really carried this story, because was there much plot? Not really, but did I care? NopE! Because their romance was the plot, basically, their romance was so goOD!
There was some subplots with Alex and his brother Jacob's bakery business being in trouble, and Blaine needed to "pretty up" his image after a scandal at the beginning of this, but they weren't the driving plot.
Most of this was just a wonderful, fluff filled ride and I LOVED it. It was done in just that perfect way where the romance was SO intriguing and interesting and lovable that it kept me invested all the way through, and a somewhat lack of plot didn't bother me in the slightest, because it was building and Alex and Blaine's love story in such an amazing way.
They also live in a world without homophobia, it seems, because not once did they even encounter any, even in the hyper masculine world of hockey. Maybe in this world Blaine's already been out for years, although at first Alex wasn't sure if Blaine was even into guys, so methinks no. That he just is with who he wants to be and it's not made a big deal, his coming out. Meaning they're a lot farther in terms of bettering homophobia in this world.
Which is a delight, as we could just focus on these two and their love, not more homophobia, as realistic as it would be. But not every sport romance has to deal with that, especially in a fictional world where same sex relationships can just BE (that would be the dream, wouldn't it?)
After Alex turns down Blaine at first, because he doesn't want to be another notch on his bedpost, Blaine is shocked to say the least. Because he's so hot and sex, and a famous hockey player, that he never gets turned down.
But there's more to it. There's more to Alex that Blaine can't quite put his finger on at first. But when he and his hockey buddies end up going to the bakery Alex and his brother own, it's gotta be fate, and Blaine doesn't let the opportunity pass him by to make something more with Alex.
Alex is weary at first, because of being cheated on repeatedly by hockey jocks in the past, but Blaine really is just a sweetheart underneath the bravado, and he proves it to Alex fairly quickly. It doesn't take long for Alex to be a puddle of goo whenever Blaine does or say something sweet to him. I don't blame him, either.
These two are just two sweet men who fall head over heels in love with each other, and one just happens to play hockey.
And it's written so well that I was just gushing over these two, and a potential lack of plot didn't matter to me.
And the secondary characters were so well done too, setting up their romances as well. I can't wait for Jacob and Ethan's - Blaine's teammate - romance next. If it's written anything like this one, I know I'll absolutely love it.
What an amazing debut novel. Just all the stars for this lovely book!
Onto the next! 🥰😘😍
September 20, 2023
This book was just too cute! I think I smiled through the entire first half as Blaine worked to woo Alex. I loved the text messages and the cheesy pickup lines. And, this may sound weird but, I liked that I could feel the author's excitement about these characters. There were some scenes that could possibly be considered narratively unnecessary or even extraneous, but it felt like the author was so enamored with the characters that she just had to share those fun moments with the readers. And, of course, I loved that there was no coming out drama or miscommunication or 3rd act break up. Knowing this going in made it so easy to settle in for an easy, swoony story about two men getting to know each other and falling in love.
I thought this was a great start for a new author and am excited for book #2. I really need to know what happened in England!
I thought this was a great start for a new author and am excited for book #2. I really need to know what happened in England!
September 27, 2023
3.5⭐️
If I were to be objective, I would say that this book is probably longer than it actually needs to be, but Alex and Blaine were so cute together that I was happy just to read scenes of the two of them being sweet and thoughtful to each other.
If I were to be objective, I would say that this book is probably longer than it actually needs to be, but Alex and Blaine were so cute together that I was happy just to read scenes of the two of them being sweet and thoughtful to each other.
January 28, 2025
“I love being inside of you, how you take every inch of me so perfectly. It’s like you were made for me.”
Well I didnt expect this, this was actually a really wholesome hockey romance. I dont know why I thought it would be more angst filled than it was, it was just a simple straight forward romance. Blaine and Alex were adorable together and the entire side characters were great. I cant wait to see some of their own books and see them get their HEA. Anyways, this is just cute fluff, and unlike some of the other 3 star fluff books I actually kinda connected with these two. I think this was just more down to earth and not soo hallmark over the top insat-love. This was a gradual, but very fast, romance between the two of them. There were a few things that I wished they addressed more, like the DMs that Alex was getting, I wish we had a conclusion with that part of the story, and I think if the book wanted to go into a more emotional direction that entire situation could of been a good point for it. However we god just a nice easy romance that didnt overthink or over dramatize anything and is something you could read in a day and feel pretty good about. It isnt something new and fancy which is okay because why invent the wheel when its already invented you know?
Well I didnt expect this, this was actually a really wholesome hockey romance. I dont know why I thought it would be more angst filled than it was, it was just a simple straight forward romance. Blaine and Alex were adorable together and the entire side characters were great. I cant wait to see some of their own books and see them get their HEA. Anyways, this is just cute fluff, and unlike some of the other 3 star fluff books I actually kinda connected with these two. I think this was just more down to earth and not soo hallmark over the top insat-love. This was a gradual, but very fast, romance between the two of them. There were a few things that I wished they addressed more, like the DMs that Alex was getting, I wish we had a conclusion with that part of the story, and I think if the book wanted to go into a more emotional direction that entire situation could of been a good point for it. However we god just a nice easy romance that didnt overthink or over dramatize anything and is something you could read in a day and feel pretty good about. It isnt something new and fancy which is okay because why invent the wheel when its already invented you know?
September 25, 2023
Super cute, super low angst, very enjoyable.
A bit puritanical in its views of casual sex, and I couldn’t help notice some subtle misogyny, but I will definitely continue with the series. It just bugs me when the women and less masculine characters are always the ones cooking for the group while the men and more masculine characters get to chill and watch TV 🙃
A bit puritanical in its views of casual sex, and I couldn’t help notice some subtle misogyny, but I will definitely continue with the series. It just bugs me when the women and less masculine characters are always the ones cooking for the group while the men and more masculine characters get to chill and watch TV 🙃
February 18, 2024
This is just pure, unadulterated fluff.
Blaine, the big shot hockey playboy, who’s been hurt too many times meets a sweet, normal Alex, who has also been hurt too many times so they don’t trust easily. But it’s amazing how quickly you get over that hesitation when someone’s hot, horny and willing is there. And then together they just build a cute little steamy relationship.
Did this reinvent the wheel? No. Was the dialogue a bit cheesy sometimes? Yes. Was it a good, fun, uncomplicated read? Absolutely.
As an aside, I felt upset on Blaine’s behalf that not more people seemed to be concerned about the emotional damage of such a massive breach of privacy having his pictures leaked online at the start of this story was. Like I get it was bad press for the team, but my god, the dudes had intimate pictures leaked, can someone just ask if he’s okay please
Blaine, the big shot hockey playboy, who’s been hurt too many times meets a sweet, normal Alex, who has also been hurt too many times so they don’t trust easily. But it’s amazing how quickly you get over that hesitation when someone’s hot, horny and willing is there. And then together they just build a cute little steamy relationship.
Did this reinvent the wheel? No. Was the dialogue a bit cheesy sometimes? Yes. Was it a good, fun, uncomplicated read? Absolutely.
As an aside, I felt upset on Blaine’s behalf that not more people seemed to be concerned about the emotional damage of such a massive breach of privacy having his pictures leaked online at the start of this story was. Like I get it was bad press for the team, but my god, the dudes had intimate pictures leaked, can someone just ask if he’s okay please
May 21, 2025
1 star
DNF at 65%
The book starts with the hockey player MC dealing with the public fallout from his foursome with some puck bunnies. I don’t really like poly content, but luckily it doesn’t come up anywhere else in the book. What bothered me is that the MC is told off for getting himself into that situation, when really he’s a victim of revenge porn and attention-hungry assholes. It’s not really fair to put the blame on him. The book also looks down on casual sex and acts like you can only ever have casual sex to fill an emotional void in your life, which is a pretty close-minded view.
My other issue is that the non-hockey-player MC has a thing for hockey players and objectifies and sexualizes ALL of them (not just the hockey player MC). He basically goes to hockey games to ogle the players, not to watch the actual game. Then when the hockey player MC hits on him, he makes it clear that he’s only turning him down in order to play hard to get. It’s one thing to stay away because you have reservations, it’s another thing to play mind games just because you want someone to chase you. And the worst part is, I’m not sure that the hockey player MC would have been interested in more than a hook up if the other MC hadn’t played hard to get.
The MCs conversations are pretty shallow. For the first hundred pages or so, literally all that happens is the hockey player MC throws around cheesy pick up lines and persistently asks out the other MC. Absolutely no meaningful or even engaging conversation. Even once they start dating, their conversations are pretty dry. The romance between the characters was pretty skin-deep as well. There was really no emotional connection there, despite the author repeatedly telling us there was one.
There’s also spanking in this book, which is not my thing.
Ultimately, I DNFed because this book was just plain boring. Absolutely nothing happens, and there’s no plot.
DNF at 65%
The book starts with the hockey player MC dealing with the public fallout from his foursome with some puck bunnies. I don’t really like poly content, but luckily it doesn’t come up anywhere else in the book. What bothered me is that the MC is told off for getting himself into that situation, when really he’s a victim of revenge porn and attention-hungry assholes. It’s not really fair to put the blame on him. The book also looks down on casual sex and acts like you can only ever have casual sex to fill an emotional void in your life, which is a pretty close-minded view.
My other issue is that the non-hockey-player MC has a thing for hockey players and objectifies and sexualizes ALL of them (not just the hockey player MC). He basically goes to hockey games to ogle the players, not to watch the actual game. Then when the hockey player MC hits on him, he makes it clear that he’s only turning him down in order to play hard to get. It’s one thing to stay away because you have reservations, it’s another thing to play mind games just because you want someone to chase you. And the worst part is, I’m not sure that the hockey player MC would have been interested in more than a hook up if the other MC hadn’t played hard to get.
The MCs conversations are pretty shallow. For the first hundred pages or so, literally all that happens is the hockey player MC throws around cheesy pick up lines and persistently asks out the other MC. Absolutely no meaningful or even engaging conversation. Even once they start dating, their conversations are pretty dry. The romance between the characters was pretty skin-deep as well. There was really no emotional connection there, despite the author repeatedly telling us there was one.
There’s also spanking in this book, which is not my thing.
Ultimately, I DNFed because this book was just plain boring. Absolutely nothing happens, and there’s no plot.
September 30, 2023
3.5 stars
This is a great start to a new series. If you’re looking for a cute and sweet hockey romance, you can’t go wrong here. Alex and Blaine were adorable but sometimes a bit too sweet for my grumpy ass. I like a bit of angst in my stories. I loved the side characters and I’m really looking forward to the upcoming books.
This is a great start to a new series. If you’re looking for a cute and sweet hockey romance, you can’t go wrong here. Alex and Blaine were adorable but sometimes a bit too sweet for my grumpy ass. I like a bit of angst in my stories. I loved the side characters and I’m really looking forward to the upcoming books.
October 4, 2023
Tropes: found family, instalove
Feels: 4/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: no
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: online bullying, grief, financial worries
Blaine is 27, plays in the NHL. He's openly bi or pan. He is anti-relationship because he's had his heart broken in the past. And he's been used for his money/fame. He hooks up a lot and his antics have gotten him in so much publicity trouble that he's at risk of being traded. Being traded is the last thing that he wants because he is finally playing on the same NHL team as his twin brother who is their goaltender. Puck bunnies bragging about having a foursome with him (and posting pics) are the last straw with hockey management. Blaine has been ordered into good behavior.
Blaine meets Alex at a game that Alex was attending as a fan. And he's interested. They keep meeting and Alex keeps turning him down. Alex is probably a couple years younger than Blaine. He's gay. He helps his brother run a bakery, but his skill is in graphic design. Which he does on the side. But the bakery really needs help so that is Alex's focus. Alex has been burned in the past as well and he doesn't want to be another notch on Blaine's bedpost. But Blaine proves that he's serious and they start dating.
This is a sweet book. It's the author's debut book. The characters are lovable. There's a decent mix of character building, emotion building, non-relationship plot drama. There's little moments of humor. Alex and Blaine make a good couple and are sweet together. There were a lot of loveable moments.
Something that bothered me for the first 55% of the book was that Blaine was so open/public about pursuing Alex. And he made himself emotionally vulnerable by revealing his feelings very early to everyone in his life, his brother, his mother, his teammates, Alex himself. While I loved that there was no drama about Blaine's sexuality and no one considered him being in a relationship with a man as a scandal (people were grateful he was serious/in a committed relationship), it just didn't seem realistic given there was no guarantee Alex wouldn't end up creating a scandal and Blaine was kind of wearing his heart on his sleeve too much. It would have made more sense if Blaine was a teenager blurting his thoughts and feelings without thought to people rather than a 27 year old who has been burned before. Especially because they didn't even have sex until the 56% mark. It just seems like a mismatch of oversharing compared to where their relationship was.
Also, the professional athletes ate a lot of junk food. That wasn't very representative of a professional athlete's diet. And the way that Alex and Jacob's financial issues were dealt with wasn't terribly realistic either. The team getting involved would have been unfair favoritism that other athletes' spouses would complain over.
Side note about Petford... When we first saw him being grouchy especially towards Peyton when he was talking about his wife Katy, I thought Petford had a thing for Peyton and they might be one of the next couples in this series. I was disappointed when Petford was really just an asshole doing asshole things. Sigh, I see an opportunity for grumpy jealousy and I'm disappointed that's not where it goes.
Some notable moments:
"“You forget that we’re twins. We have that weird ass telepathic jedi juju thing. Everything you think, I hear! I feel what you feel! And fuck me, I thought I was gonna need to go and listen to some Lewis Capaldi while I sit in the shower to contemplate my life choices or something.”"
This groggy morning kiss was so sweet, golden retriever-esque "His sleepy face fills with a soft smile, and he rubs his tired eyes with the heel of his palm as he pads toward me barefoot and naked as the day he was born. I take in his god-like form. His long, thick cock is half hard, hanging heavy between his legs and slapping against his equally thick thighs as he walks closer to me. “Good morning, gorgeous!” He tilts my head up with two fingers beneath my chin and closes his mouth over mine."
I love this chaos "When Coach Harris walks in, his eyes widen slightly in alarm at the state we’re in. I have red icing on my apron, but Elliot has icing everywhere—quite literally. Zach’s squirting the remnants of his icing directly into his mouth. Mitch is wearing some black frosting on his face like a football player, which makes Ethan and Caleb the only two who look presentable."
*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*: 3/5
Kinks: no
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: online bullying, grief, financial worries
Blaine is 27, plays in the NHL. He's openly bi or pan. He is anti-relationship because he's had his heart broken in the past. And he's been used for his money/fame. He hooks up a lot and his antics have gotten him in so much publicity trouble that he's at risk of being traded. Being traded is the last thing that he wants because he is finally playing on the same NHL team as his twin brother who is their goaltender. Puck bunnies bragging about having a foursome with him (and posting pics) are the last straw with hockey management. Blaine has been ordered into good behavior.
Blaine meets Alex at a game that Alex was attending as a fan. And he's interested. They keep meeting and Alex keeps turning him down. Alex is probably a couple years younger than Blaine. He's gay. He helps his brother run a bakery, but his skill is in graphic design. Which he does on the side. But the bakery really needs help so that is Alex's focus. Alex has been burned in the past as well and he doesn't want to be another notch on Blaine's bedpost. But Blaine proves that he's serious and they start dating.
This is a sweet book. It's the author's debut book. The characters are lovable. There's a decent mix of character building, emotion building, non-relationship plot drama. There's little moments of humor. Alex and Blaine make a good couple and are sweet together. There were a lot of loveable moments.
Something that bothered me for the first 55% of the book was that Blaine was so open/public about pursuing Alex. And he made himself emotionally vulnerable by revealing his feelings very early to everyone in his life, his brother, his mother, his teammates, Alex himself. While I loved that there was no drama about Blaine's sexuality and no one considered him being in a relationship with a man as a scandal (people were grateful he was serious/in a committed relationship), it just didn't seem realistic given there was no guarantee Alex wouldn't end up creating a scandal and Blaine was kind of wearing his heart on his sleeve too much. It would have made more sense if Blaine was a teenager blurting his thoughts and feelings without thought to people rather than a 27 year old who has been burned before. Especially because they didn't even have sex until the 56% mark. It just seems like a mismatch of oversharing compared to where their relationship was.
Also, the professional athletes ate a lot of junk food. That wasn't very representative of a professional athlete's diet. And the way that Alex and Jacob's financial issues were dealt with wasn't terribly realistic either. The team getting involved would have been unfair favoritism that other athletes' spouses would complain over.
Side note about Petford... When we first saw him being grouchy especially towards Peyton when he was talking about his wife Katy, I thought Petford had a thing for Peyton and they might be one of the next couples in this series. I was disappointed when Petford was really just an asshole doing asshole things. Sigh, I see an opportunity for grumpy jealousy and I'm disappointed that's not where it goes.
Some notable moments:
"“You forget that we’re twins. We have that weird ass telepathic jedi juju thing. Everything you think, I hear! I feel what you feel! And fuck me, I thought I was gonna need to go and listen to some Lewis Capaldi while I sit in the shower to contemplate my life choices or something.”"
This groggy morning kiss was so sweet, golden retriever-esque "His sleepy face fills with a soft smile, and he rubs his tired eyes with the heel of his palm as he pads toward me barefoot and naked as the day he was born. I take in his god-like form. His long, thick cock is half hard, hanging heavy between his legs and slapping against his equally thick thighs as he walks closer to me. “Good morning, gorgeous!” He tilts my head up with two fingers beneath my chin and closes his mouth over mine."
I love this chaos "When Coach Harris walks in, his eyes widen slightly in alarm at the state we’re in. I have red icing on my apron, but Elliot has icing everywhere—quite literally. Zach’s squirting the remnants of his icing directly into his mouth. Mitch is wearing some black frosting on his face like a football player, which makes Ethan and Caleb the only two who look presentable."
*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.
April 26, 2024
RTC
Perfectly fine/sweet storyline. I like the couple and the side characters too.
However, the writing itself needs work and some heavy editing. The writing seemed to improve some later in the book, but I can see why people DNF’ed early on. I almost did, but persevered.
Perfectly fine/sweet storyline. I like the couple and the side characters too.
However, the writing itself needs work and some heavy editing. The writing seemed to improve some later in the book, but I can see why people DNF’ed early on. I almost did, but persevered.
June 23, 2025
there’s just something about silly little hockey romances that hits so right
October 7, 2023
~3.5
To be honest, it was closer to 3*, but I decided to round up for a debut book
◇ Cute and sweet read with no manufactured drama
◇ Instant attraction but takes time to act on it
◇ Likable MCs
◇ Getting to know each other and strong relationships development
◇ Great secondary characters
Niggles:
◇ Pacing in the middle is off - I got bored and almost Dnf'd around 40% mark
◇ Fantasy world where no one bats an eye at a bi hockey player, he never hides, and everyone supports him having a boyfriend. But at the same time, the same hockey player is almost traded and being shamed for having consensual sex with 3 girls while being single (happens off page before the book starts and discussed in the 1st chapter so not a spoiler). And those girls filmed it without his consent. But the player needs to make up for his behavior. This part felt totally wrong to me
To be honest, it was closer to 3*, but I decided to round up for a debut book
◇ Cute and sweet read with no manufactured drama
◇ Instant attraction but takes time to act on it
◇ Likable MCs
◇ Getting to know each other and strong relationships development
◇ Great secondary characters
Niggles:
◇ Pacing in the middle is off - I got bored and almost Dnf'd around 40% mark
◇ Fantasy world where no one bats an eye at a bi hockey player, he never hides, and everyone supports him having a boyfriend. But at the same time, the same hockey player is almost traded and being shamed for having consensual sex with 3 girls while being single (happens off page before the book starts and discussed in the 1st chapter so not a spoiler). And those girls filmed it without his consent. But the player needs to make up for his behavior. This part felt totally wrong to me
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