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Kensley Panthers #4
Rivaled
Noah Asher
Coach. That’s who I am. The strong, levelheaded, always-dependable coach.
But then my wife left me. And my daughter—well, according to the town—she ran off and left me too. Now I’m branded with scandal.
My reputation is at stake, and I have to play by the rules if I want to keep my job.
But then . . . Along comes Chance Leighton—a rule breaker with a scandal of his own. And worse, he’s not from here. He’s a Big Bend Bear.
I need to keep my head down and follow the rules of this town. This town that’s kept me in their perfect package since day one.
But he makes me want to rebel. To break free and live my life how I want.
So I have a choice to make. A choice that rivals all others. One that’ll change everything.
Chance Leighton
He’s the coach. I’m an outsider.
There’s no bigger rivalry than the one between the Big Bend Bears and the Kensley Panthers. But here I am, forced to work alongside Kensley’s stubborn, grumpy coach.
There’s no way he’ll give me a shot. He sees me how they all do—wrapped up in scandal and exiled from the only place I’ve ever called home.
Just for being who I truly am.
He follows the rules. He believes in a strict structure. It’s worked for him. But I want to chip away at this town’s idea of him and see the real man.
Can rivals become friends? Can they become even more?
I don’t know the answer to that, but we’re about to find out. Because he’s so much more than who this town makes him out to be.
It’s up to him, but I’m ready for the challenge if he’ll just reach out and take it.
Coach. That’s who I am. The strong, levelheaded, always-dependable coach.
But then my wife left me. And my daughter—well, according to the town—she ran off and left me too. Now I’m branded with scandal.
My reputation is at stake, and I have to play by the rules if I want to keep my job.
But then . . . Along comes Chance Leighton—a rule breaker with a scandal of his own. And worse, he’s not from here. He’s a Big Bend Bear.
I need to keep my head down and follow the rules of this town. This town that’s kept me in their perfect package since day one.
But he makes me want to rebel. To break free and live my life how I want.
So I have a choice to make. A choice that rivals all others. One that’ll change everything.
Chance Leighton
He’s the coach. I’m an outsider.
There’s no bigger rivalry than the one between the Big Bend Bears and the Kensley Panthers. But here I am, forced to work alongside Kensley’s stubborn, grumpy coach.
There’s no way he’ll give me a shot. He sees me how they all do—wrapped up in scandal and exiled from the only place I’ve ever called home.
Just for being who I truly am.
He follows the rules. He believes in a strict structure. It’s worked for him. But I want to chip away at this town’s idea of him and see the real man.
Can rivals become friends? Can they become even more?
I don’t know the answer to that, but we’re about to find out. Because he’s so much more than who this town makes him out to be.
It’s up to him, but I’m ready for the challenge if he’ll just reach out and take it.
194 pages, Paperback
First published August 29, 2023
172 people are currently reading
811 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Dykes
95 books2,536 followersNicole Dykes is a wife and a professional assistant/mom to two gorgeous girls. Currently residing in Kansas, she’s a lover of coffee, Kansas City Chiefs, and all things romance.
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 289 reviews
October 27, 2023
4/5
It was absolutely adorable! Amazing main character, great story, not third act break-up, supportive side characters and small town vibes. What a person could possibly want more?
When I saw it’s about a coach, my only thought was Puck Drills & Quick Thrills. I think about this masterpiece at least once a day, so I knew I had to read this one, where the coach was the main character as there. It was my first book by this author and I’m so happy I decided to give this one a chance, because I end up loving it!
The book follows Noah and Chance. Noah is the head coach for the Panthers, but when one day the principal tells him that a new assistant coach will be working alongside him, he doesn't like the idea at all. Especially since the new coach was working for his team's biggest rival school, The Big Bend Bears. Both men, despite a tough beginning, after some time form a friendship that turns into something more day by day. The problem is that their small minded town won't let go of their past problems, which they don't know the whole truth about. Chance and Noah must decide whether other people's opinions will stand in the way of their love and happiness.
I'm a big fan of reading romances with people in their 30s/ 20s, like here 25/39, because they tend to be more mature. The relationship between Noah and Chance was exactly like that, mature, healthy and strong. They went from colleagues to friends to lovers, and their journey there was incredibly satisfying to read.
Their relationship was so cute. Noah was the grumpy with the special soft side for Chance, and Chance was the playful sunshine. who initiated their friendship.
I loved that they overcame their problems without breaking up in the process, and I adored Noah's daughter, who turned out to be their greatest support. In the end, I gave it a four instead of a five, only because "I love yous" felt a bit too fast for me, but that may not be a problem for everyone.
If you want a short and sweet book, I can definitely recommend this one!
*I received a copy of this book from GRR, and this is my honest review.*
It was absolutely adorable! Amazing main character, great story, not third act break-up, supportive side characters and small town vibes. What a person could possibly want more?
When I saw it’s about a coach, my only thought was Puck Drills & Quick Thrills. I think about this masterpiece at least once a day, so I knew I had to read this one, where the coach was the main character as there. It was my first book by this author and I’m so happy I decided to give this one a chance, because I end up loving it!
The book follows Noah and Chance. Noah is the head coach for the Panthers, but when one day the principal tells him that a new assistant coach will be working alongside him, he doesn't like the idea at all. Especially since the new coach was working for his team's biggest rival school, The Big Bend Bears. Both men, despite a tough beginning, after some time form a friendship that turns into something more day by day. The problem is that their small minded town won't let go of their past problems, which they don't know the whole truth about. Chance and Noah must decide whether other people's opinions will stand in the way of their love and happiness.
I'm a big fan of reading romances with people in their 30s/ 20s, like here 25/39, because they tend to be more mature. The relationship between Noah and Chance was exactly like that, mature, healthy and strong. They went from colleagues to friends to lovers, and their journey there was incredibly satisfying to read.
“I want you. You’re more than I could’ve ever imagined.”
Their relationship was so cute. Noah was the grumpy with the special soft side for Chance, and Chance was the playful sunshine. who initiated their friendship.
“Not trying to make you feel uncomfortable, Coach.” I wink. “But you look pretty good for forty.”
I swear to everything, I think he’s blushing."
I loved that they overcame their problems without breaking up in the process, and I adored Noah's daughter, who turned out to be their greatest support. In the end, I gave it a four instead of a five, only because "I love yous" felt a bit too fast for me, but that may not be a problem for everyone.
If you want a short and sweet book, I can definitely recommend this one!
*I received a copy of this book from GRR, and this is my honest review.*
September 21, 2023
***3.5 rating***
"Because I know without a doubt, if I fall apart, he’ll let me. And I think that’s exactly what I need right now"
While I didn't read this series in order, I thoroughly enjoyed "The Defender" and was eagerly anticipating the story of Coach Asher and his man. Regrettably, this turned out to be a read that fell short of a 4-star rating, and it pains me to rate it lower because I'm a huge fan of Nicole 😭😭. However, I believe in providing honest reviews, so here are my thoughts.
Asher and Chance's connection was engaging, but the pace of their relationship development was my primary concern. Coach Asher's initial wariness of Chance, stemming from their history on rival teams, made sense. However, their transition from rivals to friends happened almost too quickly. There were substantial time jumps within the story, and suddenly, they were attracted to each other. Although their friendship was enjoyable, I struggled to sense the romantic feelings or the depth of their attraction. The speed at which everything developed felt like an "insta-love" scenario, which I attribute partly to the novella's length. Unfortunately, I didn't feel the emotional connection between them, which left me somewhat disengaged. Perhaps I've grown accustomed to slow-burning romances, but I found it challenging to comprehend how they could fall in love so swiftly.
Nevertheless, I must acknowledge that they were undeniably adorable together. If you're in the mood for something light-hearted, fluffy, and don't mind the instant love aspect, you'll likely find enjoyment in this story!
Expect:
- Age gap
- Coach x Assistant Coach
- Sports Romance (American football)
-"Enemies" to lovers (sort of?)
- Fast-paced Romance
- Small Town Vibes
- Bisexual Rep
- Opposites Attract
- Lighthearted Romance
- Workplace Romance
I received an advance review copy for free, and this is my honest opinion/review.
"Because I know without a doubt, if I fall apart, he’ll let me. And I think that’s exactly what I need right now"
While I didn't read this series in order, I thoroughly enjoyed "The Defender" and was eagerly anticipating the story of Coach Asher and his man. Regrettably, this turned out to be a read that fell short of a 4-star rating, and it pains me to rate it lower because I'm a huge fan of Nicole 😭😭. However, I believe in providing honest reviews, so here are my thoughts.
Asher and Chance's connection was engaging, but the pace of their relationship development was my primary concern. Coach Asher's initial wariness of Chance, stemming from their history on rival teams, made sense. However, their transition from rivals to friends happened almost too quickly. There were substantial time jumps within the story, and suddenly, they were attracted to each other. Although their friendship was enjoyable, I struggled to sense the romantic feelings or the depth of their attraction. The speed at which everything developed felt like an "insta-love" scenario, which I attribute partly to the novella's length. Unfortunately, I didn't feel the emotional connection between them, which left me somewhat disengaged. Perhaps I've grown accustomed to slow-burning romances, but I found it challenging to comprehend how they could fall in love so swiftly.
Nevertheless, I must acknowledge that they were undeniably adorable together. If you're in the mood for something light-hearted, fluffy, and don't mind the instant love aspect, you'll likely find enjoyment in this story!
Expect:
- Age gap
- Coach x Assistant Coach
- Sports Romance (American football)
-"Enemies" to lovers (sort of?)
- Fast-paced Romance
- Small Town Vibes
- Bisexual Rep
- Opposites Attract
- Lighthearted Romance
- Workplace Romance
I received an advance review copy for free, and this is my honest opinion/review.
August 25, 2023
i love the kensley world so much. i get that it’s highly unrealistic, however this small minded small town is doing better every day and i love to see it. it gives me hope and i feel like that’s one of the best thing that you can get from a book.
i feel like my favorite part wasn’t the romance itself (even though i loved it), but the friendship. you see, these two are extremely lonely and when they realized that they had that one friend they could trust it hit hard. i felt their relief when they found a friend in each other.
i loved how they started on the wrong foot, how they had to overcome prejudice, how they became friends and then fall in love.
a special mention to the side characters: the queen herself lee ann and the beautiful golden retriever oakley family.
i was about to give this 4 stars but i don’t really have a reason to not rate it 5, i feel like a little something is missing but i don’t know what, so 5 it is because i had a wonderful time reading this.
i read an arc and as per usual this is my honest review.
i feel like my favorite part wasn’t the romance itself (even though i loved it), but the friendship. you see, these two are extremely lonely and when they realized that they had that one friend they could trust it hit hard. i felt their relief when they found a friend in each other.
i loved how they started on the wrong foot, how they had to overcome prejudice, how they became friends and then fall in love.
a special mention to the side characters: the queen herself lee ann and the beautiful golden retriever oakley family.
i was about to give this 4 stars but i don’t really have a reason to not rate it 5, i feel like a little something is missing but i don’t know what, so 5 it is because i had a wonderful time reading this.
i read an arc and as per usual this is my honest review.
September 9, 2023
Instant star deduction for the Scream movies slander!!!! Kidding kidding…or am I?🤭 This was a sweet and extremely fast paced read. The pacing is what I struggle with most when it comes to Nicole’s books. We don’t get much buildup before it’s a race towards the finish line. I keep on returning to her books because I have found quite a few I’ve loved but this has been an issue for me time and time again. The main characters here were nice and completely unmemorable. Where did Noah’s grumpiness go!!! A day passes and he’s like…I’m over it actually. New chapter, new me!!! And then they proceeded to just feel like the same character to me idk. Probably because they both weren’t given that many distinct character traits to begin with. I feel like there was potential here for me, the set-up was intriguing at first, but I never fully loved them as a couple. There was just…so little spark or chemistry. I needed sooo much more relationship development and just more, in general!!! But as I always do, I loved Nicole’s writing.💛 I might have set up any book I read today for disaster, directly after reading and loving Names for the Dawn so much!!! Lol.
August 30, 2023
3.5
I like this series but the pacing of the books really bothers me! They start off really slow and detailed, then it gets to around 50% and all of a sudden there's big time jumps that aren't cleary indicated until you've started reading - I've said this a bunch of times, but it's not hard to indicate time passing! For the way these books are written it'd make more sense to clearly have the month indicated, because we go from August/September, to the following summer ridiculously quickly.
Plus once the couple actually gets together in each of these books, it's just sex scenes! I want to see the relationship building, not just through sex. They tell each other they love each other but for me, all I've read is that they've had sex a bunch of times and suddenly boom, they're in love, and it's not believable.
I struggle to connect to the character's because we aren't really seeing any emotion or much personality from them, just a whole lot of lust, and that just doesn't spark my interest in whether they're together or not, every encounter may as well be different people for all I feel like we get to know the characters.
It's weird because I absolutely loved The Pretty Boy vs The Bad Boy, but this series and the Spark of Hope series don't grab my attention the same way because nothing really happens except lust and sex scenes, and for me that's not enough to be invested in the characters stories.
I like this series but the pacing of the books really bothers me! They start off really slow and detailed, then it gets to around 50% and all of a sudden there's big time jumps that aren't cleary indicated until you've started reading - I've said this a bunch of times, but it's not hard to indicate time passing! For the way these books are written it'd make more sense to clearly have the month indicated, because we go from August/September, to the following summer ridiculously quickly.
Plus once the couple actually gets together in each of these books, it's just sex scenes! I want to see the relationship building, not just through sex. They tell each other they love each other but for me, all I've read is that they've had sex a bunch of times and suddenly boom, they're in love, and it's not believable.
I struggle to connect to the character's because we aren't really seeing any emotion or much personality from them, just a whole lot of lust, and that just doesn't spark my interest in whether they're together or not, every encounter may as well be different people for all I feel like we get to know the characters.
It's weird because I absolutely loved The Pretty Boy vs The Bad Boy, but this series and the Spark of Hope series don't grab my attention the same way because nothing really happens except lust and sex scenes, and for me that's not enough to be invested in the characters stories.
September 6, 2023
I just love how easily the authors writing style is. I didn’t pay attention to a single one of my classes ✨
August 24, 2023
Rivaled is a beautifully sweet small-town romance between the Kensley football coach, Noah, and his newly hired assistant coach Chance. They are both very private and have had troubling experiences recently in their personal and professional lives, which makes for a great basis for their friendship. Over time their friendship slowly blossoms into something more and I loved getting to see how it developed.
Their relationship does have its fair share of risks. They both feel a sense of potential negative fallout professionally from their romance. Although this is a risk, I enjoyed seeing both try to navigate their relationship while keeping it mostly hidden from the public.
Overall, this series has so many heartwarming moments and I loved seeing Noah and Chance's relationship, develop, grow, and deepen into something so sincere and real. Their relationship takes its time over an entire year and I loved getting to see all the seasons these two got to share together.
Rivaled is a lovely, low-angst romance that I could not get enough of. These characters, their town, and their relationships with one another made for a great story. So exciting for the next entry!!!
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
Their relationship does have its fair share of risks. They both feel a sense of potential negative fallout professionally from their romance. Although this is a risk, I enjoyed seeing both try to navigate their relationship while keeping it mostly hidden from the public.
Overall, this series has so many heartwarming moments and I loved seeing Noah and Chance's relationship, develop, grow, and deepen into something so sincere and real. Their relationship takes its time over an entire year and I loved getting to see all the seasons these two got to share together.
Rivaled is a lovely, low-angst romance that I could not get enough of. These characters, their town, and their relationships with one another made for a great story. So exciting for the next entry!!!
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
October 3, 2023
I was really exited for coach's book and I'm a little disappointed, so 3.5⭐ it is.
First of all, let me say I always love coming back to Kensley. Even though these books don't go over 3.5⭐ for me, I really like the MMCs, every time. But the thing is, they don't get good stories.
I had no idea coach Noah was such a hot guy in the previous books, honestly. I liked his story, him as a character and I loved him and Chance together.
🟣 Age gap - 15 years
🟢 Coming out
🔵 One MMC gay, other bisexual
🟡 Co - workers, kind of grumpy/sunshine (not really, not for me)
🌶️ Spice was good; vers
This was a really sweet, zero angst story. Coach Noah gets his happy ending, him being a 40-year old divorcee, who's got a daughter in college. He's always been bisexual, but not out, so when Chance, a 25 - year old former football player and coach in the rivaling school comes to work with him, he experiences that bi-awakening again, after a few years of not having any sex or relationships.
Noah and Chance kept telling themselves they're friends and how it's good to be friends, over and over again. Then they went from one scorching hot kiss to talking about a relationship. A 25-year old hot guy who's never had a relationship is down for one after one single kiss, not to mention a 40-year old guy who's never been with a man, divorced and living in a small homophobic town. It wasn't believable at all.
"I'm almost forty years old, and I never expected to ever need condoms again."
Okay, hot 40 - year old coach daddy with sexy chest hair, you're right, you're never ever going to need condoms again. In your life. Ever.
🟡 They're saying they're in a committed relationship waaay to soon. Like, wait a second, you guys are hooking up and testing the waters, so all that talk about a very serious commitment kind of threw me off. Their feelings also came into the story way too fast. A couple of weeks and bam, it's "i love you" already, while I think that could've been said at 73% and not sooner.
They both apparently wanted that white picket fence fairytale and they wanted it in Kensley, where there are plenty of traditional homophobes, so maybe I expected a little bit of drama or something, - anything, - but things were developing so smoothly, that they ended up having the relationship, the house, the dogs, the perfect christmas AND the town not saying anything. I mean, yeah, sure it could happen, but I think it was too perfect.
🌶️ That being said, I loved both MMCs, especially them both being tall, athletic men, Chance a bit taller and much younger, so that was a good visual to have. Noah was experiencing his first time with a man and I was here for it, it was hot.
Their sex was amazing, I loved it. It was really good, descriptive and just the right amount of it.
"It's too good. God, you feel so damn good wrapped around me. I don't ever want to leave."
"Don't. Just stay inside me forever," he says as he rides me, one of his hands disappearing between us as he strokes his hard cock under the jockstrap.
Yes, I did like this book, but it seriously lacked something more, Chance was a really good character here that somehow got too sweet and consequently lost in the story, he was just a bystander by the end of it, moved in, locked, done.
I expected a bit of a conflict and a substantial resolve to them coming out to the whole town and absolutely a different epilogue.
I don't know the details, but I'm guessing Dallas' story will be next.
First of all, let me say I always love coming back to Kensley. Even though these books don't go over 3.5⭐ for me, I really like the MMCs, every time. But the thing is, they don't get good stories.
I had no idea coach Noah was such a hot guy in the previous books, honestly. I liked his story, him as a character and I loved him and Chance together.
🟣 Age gap - 15 years
🟢 Coming out
🔵 One MMC gay, other bisexual
🟡 Co - workers, kind of grumpy/sunshine (not really, not for me)
🌶️ Spice was good; vers
This was a really sweet, zero angst story. Coach Noah gets his happy ending, him being a 40-year old divorcee, who's got a daughter in college. He's always been bisexual, but not out, so when Chance, a 25 - year old former football player and coach in the rivaling school comes to work with him, he experiences that bi-awakening again, after a few years of not having any sex or relationships.
Noah and Chance kept telling themselves they're friends and how it's good to be friends, over and over again. Then they went from one scorching hot kiss to talking about a relationship. A 25-year old hot guy who's never had a relationship is down for one after one single kiss, not to mention a 40-year old guy who's never been with a man, divorced and living in a small homophobic town. It wasn't believable at all.
"I'm almost forty years old, and I never expected to ever need condoms again."
Okay, hot 40 - year old coach daddy with sexy chest hair, you're right, you're never ever going to need condoms again. In your life. Ever.
🟡 They're saying they're in a committed relationship waaay to soon. Like, wait a second, you guys are hooking up and testing the waters, so all that talk about a very serious commitment kind of threw me off. Their feelings also came into the story way too fast. A couple of weeks and bam, it's "i love you" already, while I think that could've been said at 73% and not sooner.
They both apparently wanted that white picket fence fairytale and they wanted it in Kensley, where there are plenty of traditional homophobes, so maybe I expected a little bit of drama or something, - anything, - but things were developing so smoothly, that they ended up having the relationship, the house, the dogs, the perfect christmas AND the town not saying anything. I mean, yeah, sure it could happen, but I think it was too perfect.
🌶️ That being said, I loved both MMCs, especially them both being tall, athletic men, Chance a bit taller and much younger, so that was a good visual to have. Noah was experiencing his first time with a man and I was here for it, it was hot.
Their sex was amazing, I loved it. It was really good, descriptive and just the right amount of it.
"It's too good. God, you feel so damn good wrapped around me. I don't ever want to leave."
"Don't. Just stay inside me forever," he says as he rides me, one of his hands disappearing between us as he strokes his hard cock under the jockstrap.
Yes, I did like this book, but it seriously lacked something more, Chance was a really good character here that somehow got too sweet and consequently lost in the story, he was just a bystander by the end of it, moved in, locked, done.
I expected a bit of a conflict and a substantial resolve to them coming out to the whole town and absolutely a different epilogue.
I don't know the details, but I'm guessing Dallas' story will be next.
August 27, 2023
⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️
Lovely, low-angst friends/coworkers to lovers.
Great addition to the series, Rivaled was sweet and absolutely adorable. Keeper is still my favorite, but this comes in at a close second.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Lovely, low-angst friends/coworkers to lovers.
Great addition to the series, Rivaled was sweet and absolutely adorable. Keeper is still my favorite, but this comes in at a close second.
I know I lied when I said I can handle this because I know, without a doubt, letting him go is going to be next to impossible.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
September 4, 2023
Was this cute? Yes. Will I remember a single thing that happened in 2 weeks time? Probably not.
Ratings
⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶🌶
Ratings
⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶🌶
September 18, 2023
i didn't review these books when i read them bcs i wasn't in the mood but i will say that my brain circled this thought multiple times throughout reading each story:
these are like Cora Rose's Unexpected series if you tone it down by half. they are ott but with a small town romance vibe which makes them a little sweeter.
i totally enjoyed these and am looking forward to reading the fifth installment for sure
these are like Cora Rose's Unexpected series if you tone it down by half. they are ott but with a small town romance vibe which makes them a little sweeter.
i totally enjoyed these and am looking forward to reading the fifth installment for sure
August 25, 2023
I’ve read all the books in this series so far and I’ve loved all the couples and their different stories! The story of Coach Noah and Assistant Coach Chance was one of the best in the series. There wasn’t a single part of the book I didn’t enjoy.
Noah and Chance both had some things to work through while living in a close-minded small town. Dealing with gossip and being worried about just living your life how you want to aren’t things that anyone should have to deal with. I liked the approach these two had and I loved the patience Chance had for Noah while he navigated these changes!
I really felt the connection between these two from the very beginning. Even just as friends you could see something was there. I’m really happy with how things turned out for them and their HEA! I absolutely recommend this book and look forward to reading the last book in the series!
Noah and Chance both had some things to work through while living in a close-minded small town. Dealing with gossip and being worried about just living your life how you want to aren’t things that anyone should have to deal with. I liked the approach these two had and I loved the patience Chance had for Noah while he navigated these changes!
I really felt the connection between these two from the very beginning. Even just as friends you could see something was there. I’m really happy with how things turned out for them and their HEA! I absolutely recommend this book and look forward to reading the last book in the series!
August 29, 2023
"I just want this conversation over before I do or say something stupid. Like he may be the most beautiful person I’ve ever seen. That his eyes often distract me, not only because of the unique color but the spark they seem to have. That his smile seems to make my heart do this weird flutter thing."
Rivaled is book 4 in the Kensley Panthers linked MM sports romance series by Nicole Dykes. This is Chance and Noah's story.
As always with the MCs and their developing relationships in this series, we have a low angst, easy read, this time with a lovable combination of coach/associate coach, age-gap, sports romance and lots of first time steamy action, set in a small town - and of course with the obligatory HEA.
Throw in a touch of small town gossip and a smattering of cameos from earlier in the series and you have the perfect recipe for another sweet read.
3.5-4 stars
Rivaled is book 4 in the Kensley Panthers linked MM sports romance series by Nicole Dykes. This is Chance and Noah's story.
As always with the MCs and their developing relationships in this series, we have a low angst, easy read, this time with a lovable combination of coach/associate coach, age-gap, sports romance and lots of first time steamy action, set in a small town - and of course with the obligatory HEA.
Throw in a touch of small town gossip and a smattering of cameos from earlier in the series and you have the perfect recipe for another sweet read.
3.5-4 stars
August 26, 2023
I enjoyed this very much. Noah is the head coach of a high school football team. In the handful of years before the book opens he's had a handful of things happen near him that make him appear to be not as "wholesome" as western Kansas small town USA would prefer. Then he gets saddled with an assistant coach from their rival team who is too good looking. He's told to keep his ducks in a row and win because they'll find a reason to fire him otherwise.
I appreciated how Chance was desperate for a place to be where people would quit gossiping about lies about him and coach football. It doesn't hurt that the old guy (Nicole, we will be having a conversation about 40 being old post haste) he's working with is super hot.
Things were new and different for Noah but their relationship was lovely. Comfort and companionship are things he was desperate for and I loved how they both grew together.
Thank you to Chaotic Creatives for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I appreciated how Chance was desperate for a place to be where people would quit gossiping about lies about him and coach football. It doesn't hurt that the old guy (Nicole, we will be having a conversation about 40 being old post haste) he's working with is super hot.
Things were new and different for Noah but their relationship was lovely. Comfort and companionship are things he was desperate for and I loved how they both grew together.
Thank you to Chaotic Creatives for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 8, 2023
reread Nov. 2023
4/5 stars
This was so cute and heartwarming! I truthfully loved the friendship over their romance. It was so adorable to read about them bonding over movies 🥺
4/5 stars
This was so cute and heartwarming! I truthfully loved the friendship over their romance. It was so adorable to read about them bonding over movies 🥺
September 5, 2023
* 4 stars *
Rivaled is a small-town romance with an age gap trope. Noah is a high school coach, and Chance is brought in as the assistant coach. To be honest, the "rivals" part didn't last very long and wasn't really a point in the story either but I guess technically Chance and Noah did use to be rivals as they were previously with different teams.
Noah has been divorced for two years but he hasn't made any attempts at a new relationship yet. He's been the topic of gossip for various reasons, but he's trying to not let that affect him. He has a daughter in college that he loves and who was a great side character. Actually, I wouldn't be surprised if she even has a story of her own.
Chance had to leave his life and start over after being accused of something he didn't do. He tries to be honest about who he is no matter the small-town gossip, for which he's a hot topic. To be honest, all the gossiping was kind of frustrating, but that's how I feel about it in real life as well, so it wasn't really a surprise.
I liked the connection between the MCs and their chemistry. They seemed to fit well together. I appreciated Chance's stance on Noah being in the closet and that he never pressured him to come out, and I liked how comfortable they were in their relationship and around each other.
That's the only book I've read from this series, and even though there are appearances from past characters and references to some past events, it was fine as a standalone. It never felt as though I was missing something or I was out of the loop. The story was clearly about Chance and Noah; the focus was on them, and the side characters never stole the spotlight.
~ Copy provided by Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ~
Rivaled is a small-town romance with an age gap trope. Noah is a high school coach, and Chance is brought in as the assistant coach. To be honest, the "rivals" part didn't last very long and wasn't really a point in the story either but I guess technically Chance and Noah did use to be rivals as they were previously with different teams.
Noah has been divorced for two years but he hasn't made any attempts at a new relationship yet. He's been the topic of gossip for various reasons, but he's trying to not let that affect him. He has a daughter in college that he loves and who was a great side character. Actually, I wouldn't be surprised if she even has a story of her own.
Chance had to leave his life and start over after being accused of something he didn't do. He tries to be honest about who he is no matter the small-town gossip, for which he's a hot topic. To be honest, all the gossiping was kind of frustrating, but that's how I feel about it in real life as well, so it wasn't really a surprise.
I liked the connection between the MCs and their chemistry. They seemed to fit well together. I appreciated Chance's stance on Noah being in the closet and that he never pressured him to come out, and I liked how comfortable they were in their relationship and around each other.
That's the only book I've read from this series, and even though there are appearances from past characters and references to some past events, it was fine as a standalone. It never felt as though I was missing something or I was out of the loop. The story was clearly about Chance and Noah; the focus was on them, and the side characters never stole the spotlight.
~ Copy provided by Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ~
August 25, 2023
3.75 stars
- football
- coworkers
- friends to lovers
- age gap (40/25)
- insta-lovey, kinda
Noah Asher has been coaching football going on twenty years, but after his divorce and the drama with his daughter, his reputation and his livelihood are on the line. To top it off, the new assistant coach, Chance Leighton, former assistant coach of the Panther's rival, the Big Bend Bears, went through a scandal of his own.
Despite getting off on the wrong foot, the pair connect over their shared scandals and bad reputations, and strike up a friendship. The more time spent together and getting to know Chance has Noah wanting more, but living in close minded Kensley makes that nearly impossible. Chance is worth it though and makes him want to risk it all.
I love the Kensley Panther's series, and Coach's book did not disappoint. Noah and Chance's story is low angst and pretty adorable. These two found each other when they needed a friend the most, and watching them fall for each other had me all giggly and giddy. Chance is so patient with Noah as he navigates his sexuality, and I just really love them together so much.
- football
- coworkers
- friends to lovers
- age gap (40/25)
- insta-lovey, kinda
Noah Asher has been coaching football going on twenty years, but after his divorce and the drama with his daughter, his reputation and his livelihood are on the line. To top it off, the new assistant coach, Chance Leighton, former assistant coach of the Panther's rival, the Big Bend Bears, went through a scandal of his own.
Despite getting off on the wrong foot, the pair connect over their shared scandals and bad reputations, and strike up a friendship. The more time spent together and getting to know Chance has Noah wanting more, but living in close minded Kensley makes that nearly impossible. Chance is worth it though and makes him want to risk it all.
I love the Kensley Panther's series, and Coach's book did not disappoint. Noah and Chance's story is low angst and pretty adorable. These two found each other when they needed a friend the most, and watching them fall for each other had me all giggly and giddy. Chance is so patient with Noah as he navigates his sexuality, and I just really love them together so much.
August 27, 2023
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
This was such a sweet, light-hearted, small town romance, and Chance and Noah were pretty adorable! Small town romances always hit me in the bittersweets because of the ever present homophobia and small minded gossip that pervades these kinds of stories, but these men got their HEA and that's all that really matters in the grand scheme of things! I enjoyed this quick sexy read, and i'm looking forward to reading more of these lovely romances from ND in the future!
This was such a sweet, light-hearted, small town romance, and Chance and Noah were pretty adorable! Small town romances always hit me in the bittersweets because of the ever present homophobia and small minded gossip that pervades these kinds of stories, but these men got their HEA and that's all that really matters in the grand scheme of things! I enjoyed this quick sexy read, and i'm looking forward to reading more of these lovely romances from ND in the future!
August 30, 2023
Tropes: grumpy/sunshine, age gap, small town
Feels: 3.5/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: no
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content themes: homophobia
Noah is 39. He's a high school football coach. He got his high school girlfriend pregnant at 17 and they got married. They were married for almost 20 years but they broke up a couple years ago because she wanted to move out of the small town. His daughter is now in college and got married young. Noah has always been bisexual but he's never been with anyone other than his wife.
Enter Chance. He's 25, gay. Has been hired as the assistant coach. He was fired from his old job at the rival high school because of a manufactured scandal about his sexuality. Some gossips made up rumors about him being inappropriate with a student. Basically they're homophobic and they just wanted to fire him.
Noah is grumpy and isn't quick to open up or trust. But Chance is friendly and weasels his way in. They become friends and they open up to each other about their lives. They are attracted to each other, and they fall for each other but they're worried about their reputations and whether they'll be accepted.
This was a nice enough book. It wasn't a very deep or high intensity read. It was more of a gentle love story. Noah kind of acted older than he actually is, he was kind of Grandpa-esque from early on, very reserved. They were sweet together. They emotionally glomped onto each other and settled into a nice life. It was super low angst.
A notable moment:
"She covers her eyes with her hands. “Oh my God. Are you seriously naked in bed with a guy?” I try to really listen to her, trying to find out what she’s so disgusted with. “LeAnn . . .” I start, pulling the covers up and over Chance’s bare shoulder. “I can explain this.” She’s still covering her eyes, but she barks out a quick laugh at that. “Dad, I don’t need a sex talk. I just can’t see this. I’m gonna go bleach my eyes.”"
*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: 3.5/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: no
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content themes: homophobia
Noah is 39. He's a high school football coach. He got his high school girlfriend pregnant at 17 and they got married. They were married for almost 20 years but they broke up a couple years ago because she wanted to move out of the small town. His daughter is now in college and got married young. Noah has always been bisexual but he's never been with anyone other than his wife.
Enter Chance. He's 25, gay. Has been hired as the assistant coach. He was fired from his old job at the rival high school because of a manufactured scandal about his sexuality. Some gossips made up rumors about him being inappropriate with a student. Basically they're homophobic and they just wanted to fire him.
Noah is grumpy and isn't quick to open up or trust. But Chance is friendly and weasels his way in. They become friends and they open up to each other about their lives. They are attracted to each other, and they fall for each other but they're worried about their reputations and whether they'll be accepted.
This was a nice enough book. It wasn't a very deep or high intensity read. It was more of a gentle love story. Noah kind of acted older than he actually is, he was kind of Grandpa-esque from early on, very reserved. They were sweet together. They emotionally glomped onto each other and settled into a nice life. It was super low angst.
A notable moment:
"She covers her eyes with her hands. “Oh my God. Are you seriously naked in bed with a guy?” I try to really listen to her, trying to find out what she’s so disgusted with. “LeAnn . . .” I start, pulling the covers up and over Chance’s bare shoulder. “I can explain this.” She’s still covering her eyes, but she barks out a quick laugh at that. “Dad, I don’t need a sex talk. I just can’t see this. I’m gonna go bleach my eyes.”"
*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.
September 12, 2023
It was about time Kensley grew up and everyone mind their own business and I am glad to see more people finally breaks free from gossip mill's grip.
This was lighthearted and sweet read. It follows 2 coaches become slight enemies and then friends and then fall in love with each other.
Chance was funny, charming and pretty mature for his age. Noah was rock solid but I found him less mature at times. I loved the fact there were no drama between the characters and they stood up for themselves.
I really can't understand people meddling with other people's lives just because they are different. Kensley, sadly, has still a lot to be a better place. But Chance and Noah found their bubble and determined not to be bent by the ancient society antics. The younger couples had suffered enough from that in the earlier books.
The book was super fast paced. Time jumps and events were blur on the go. It was also a good thing because it makes it read easier/faster in a way. But sometimes too fast without letting anything sink in.
Noah at 40 acting like an old grandpa, oh wait, he actually became one lol but he is not old. He pretty much started life really early with a kid and marriage so it probably feels like that to him, but 40 is not old in today's world.
And yes, I totally agree with that.
This was lighthearted and sweet read. It follows 2 coaches become slight enemies and then friends and then fall in love with each other.
Chance was funny, charming and pretty mature for his age. Noah was rock solid but I found him less mature at times. I loved the fact there were no drama between the characters and they stood up for themselves.
I really can't understand people meddling with other people's lives just because they are different. Kensley, sadly, has still a lot to be a better place. But Chance and Noah found their bubble and determined not to be bent by the ancient society antics. The younger couples had suffered enough from that in the earlier books.
The book was super fast paced. Time jumps and events were blur on the go. It was also a good thing because it makes it read easier/faster in a way. But sometimes too fast without letting anything sink in.
Noah at 40 acting like an old grandpa, oh wait, he actually became one lol but he is not old. He pretty much started life really early with a kid and marriage so it probably feels like that to him, but 40 is not old in today's world.
A kitten comes up from the barn and climbs onto my lap, purring away.
There’s no way life gets any better than this.
And yes, I totally agree with that.
September 3, 2023
I absolutely love this series and I’ve been waiting to read Coach’s story and I had already decided that it’s going to be fantastic 😄, but I cannot tell you enough, despite those high expectations, how much I loved this book!
Nicole Dykes takes us back to the home of the Kensley Panthers for Chance and Noah’s story, continuing to keep the heavier themes and issues it touches upon positive and uplifting with no drama or miscommunication but still doesn’t shy away from addressing the negativity and the fear of impact and consequence that exists within the tightly controlled cultural layout of Kensley.
I really felt for Noah who comes across as a grump at first but is a big ole softy. He is a good, loyal person who has had to hide a big part of himself for a long time till Chance comes along to make him want to fight for himself and his truth. Chance is resilient and mature with a huge heart and at first while both resist it for different reasons, them forming a connection was just hot and organic and beautiful to see.
I loved how Noah continues to stand up for his daughter and I was so happy to see Oakley again and with how absolutely amazing his dad was at the diner.
I was awed at the sensitivity with which the author shows the courage it takes to take those steps as Noah does with Chance time and again till he finds his way to be free and I was touched by how much acceptance and support Chance gives Noah throughout.
Expect:
* Age gap
* First times
* Small town romance
* Animosity to love
* Bisexual rep
* Football romance
* Opposites attract
I can’t wait for the next book even though it makes me sad it’s going to be the last in the series.
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Swoon: ♥️♥️♥️♥️
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Angst: ❤️🩹❤️🩹.5
Humour: 🤣🤣
Nicole Dykes takes us back to the home of the Kensley Panthers for Chance and Noah’s story, continuing to keep the heavier themes and issues it touches upon positive and uplifting with no drama or miscommunication but still doesn’t shy away from addressing the negativity and the fear of impact and consequence that exists within the tightly controlled cultural layout of Kensley.
I really felt for Noah who comes across as a grump at first but is a big ole softy. He is a good, loyal person who has had to hide a big part of himself for a long time till Chance comes along to make him want to fight for himself and his truth. Chance is resilient and mature with a huge heart and at first while both resist it for different reasons, them forming a connection was just hot and organic and beautiful to see.
I loved how Noah continues to stand up for his daughter and I was so happy to see Oakley again and with how absolutely amazing his dad was at the diner.
I was awed at the sensitivity with which the author shows the courage it takes to take those steps as Noah does with Chance time and again till he finds his way to be free and I was touched by how much acceptance and support Chance gives Noah throughout.
Expect:
* Age gap
* First times
* Small town romance
* Animosity to love
* Bisexual rep
* Football romance
* Opposites attract
I can’t wait for the next book even though it makes me sad it’s going to be the last in the series.
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Swoon: ♥️♥️♥️♥️
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Angst: ❤️🩹❤️🩹.5
Humour: 🤣🤣
August 28, 2023
I really enjoyed reading this one. Their story had me hooked from the start and it only got better as it went along. It was definitely worth reading.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
August 30, 2023
3 stars because Nicole is so lovely. However, the stories are hit or miss most of the time...
December 29, 2025
This book brought on all the feels!! I almost rated lower than a 4 because of some typos but I ended up crying a few times so 🥲 Anyway, Chance and Noah’s story was so sweet. I of course would’ve liked the book to be longer but that’s how I feel with all of her books. With this book, the timing was super fast but a part of me enjoyed that. Once Chance explained to Noah why he was fired it opened up a portal of vulnerability and safety between the two given there was nothing else they needed to hide from each other. The main theme of this series and Big Bend is how the town will feel about people’s sexualities but I just loved how Noah didn’t want to lie about what they had even if he was scared at first. Sometimes someone just comes into your life and rewrites the life you thought you already wrote for yourself, that was who Chance was for him. Our Assistant Coach brought a lifetime of happiness upon our Coach Asher and nothing is better than that. I was absolutely EMO over Noah’s conversation with his daughter and how she explained that she just wanted her dad to be happy and that was all that mattered 🥹 I’m very very happy for them and the life they now get to live without the judgement of anyone.
— quotes :)
“I just want this conversation over before I do or say something stupid. Like he may be the most beautiful person I’ve ever seen. That his eyes often distract me, not only because of the unique color but the spark they seem to have. That his smile—even when he’s being an arrogant shithead—seems to make my heart do this weird flutter thing.”
“Noah . . .” I love the sound of his name coming from my mouth. I want to say it over and over again. His eyes are locked on mine, intense and stormy. “You can trust me.”
“A relationship . . . One with Coach Noah Asher? Yeah, sign me the hell up.”
“But getting to date a super sexy although sometimes very grumpy Coach . . .” I kiss him again, releasing his chin and then kiss along his jaw. “Getting to kiss you . . .” I lean forward and nip at his neck. “And maybe more . . .” — “We can have more.”
“Now you’re here, and you may be the most beautiful human I’ve ever met. And I want you.” (Noah stop i’m crying)
“I’m just happy to be here.” — “”I’m happy you’re here too,” I say with honesty, my heart clenching in my chest, thinking about the short time I’ve known him. It feels like too much and not enough at the same time.”
“I’ve never felt anything like this. This need and desire to be near him as often as I can. To never leave the comfort of his arms. It’s addicting and scary and exciting all at once.”
“You want me, Coach?” — “So fucking bad. You have no idea.”
“I love you.” My words are said quietly, but it wasn’t an accident. It wasn’t a lie. It’s just the truth that came out, and when he looks into my eyes, I don’t see any fear there. — “I’m so in love with you, it scares the hell out of me.” — “That makes two of us.”
“The cold night air couldn’t have cooled the lust and love I felt for him. And there really is nothing like a country night sky. It was breathtaking. And he shared that with me.”
“I just want you happy, Dad.” Emotion clogs my throat as I nod and take Chance’s hand. “He makes me very happy.” (Yup crying!!!)
“It felt like just yesterday, I was lost in despair, thinking nothing would ever get better. Then, just like that, all of a sudden, life is really, really good.”
“If we walk into the diner—the one diner in town—for breakfast, hand in hand, everyone will know we’re a couple by lunch.” I smile, no longer afraid of that fact. No longer afraid at all. He’s my future. I know that now. Whether we live here or anywhere else in the world, he’s it for me. “I know. I want that.”
“I’m more than okay with this. This”—he gestures toward the diner and then at me—“ is all I ever wanted and never thought I’d have.”
“But here, I have Noah by my side, and he has me. We have each other, and that’s really all we need.”
“Who knew the place where I’ve always felt just a little bit trapped could eventually be the home I always wanted it to be? It just took a little bit of courage and a whole lot of Chance.”
“You okay?” — “Yes. I am. I have everything I ever wanted, right here with you.”
“I fucking love you, Coach Noah Asher.” — “I fucking love you too, Assistant Coach Chance Leighton.”
— quotes :)
“I just want this conversation over before I do or say something stupid. Like he may be the most beautiful person I’ve ever seen. That his eyes often distract me, not only because of the unique color but the spark they seem to have. That his smile—even when he’s being an arrogant shithead—seems to make my heart do this weird flutter thing.”
“Noah . . .” I love the sound of his name coming from my mouth. I want to say it over and over again. His eyes are locked on mine, intense and stormy. “You can trust me.”
“A relationship . . . One with Coach Noah Asher? Yeah, sign me the hell up.”
“But getting to date a super sexy although sometimes very grumpy Coach . . .” I kiss him again, releasing his chin and then kiss along his jaw. “Getting to kiss you . . .” I lean forward and nip at his neck. “And maybe more . . .” — “We can have more.”
“Now you’re here, and you may be the most beautiful human I’ve ever met. And I want you.” (Noah stop i’m crying)
“I’m just happy to be here.” — “”I’m happy you’re here too,” I say with honesty, my heart clenching in my chest, thinking about the short time I’ve known him. It feels like too much and not enough at the same time.”
“I’ve never felt anything like this. This need and desire to be near him as often as I can. To never leave the comfort of his arms. It’s addicting and scary and exciting all at once.”
“You want me, Coach?” — “So fucking bad. You have no idea.”
“I love you.” My words are said quietly, but it wasn’t an accident. It wasn’t a lie. It’s just the truth that came out, and when he looks into my eyes, I don’t see any fear there. — “I’m so in love with you, it scares the hell out of me.” — “That makes two of us.”
“The cold night air couldn’t have cooled the lust and love I felt for him. And there really is nothing like a country night sky. It was breathtaking. And he shared that with me.”
“I just want you happy, Dad.” Emotion clogs my throat as I nod and take Chance’s hand. “He makes me very happy.” (Yup crying!!!)
“It felt like just yesterday, I was lost in despair, thinking nothing would ever get better. Then, just like that, all of a sudden, life is really, really good.”
“If we walk into the diner—the one diner in town—for breakfast, hand in hand, everyone will know we’re a couple by lunch.” I smile, no longer afraid of that fact. No longer afraid at all. He’s my future. I know that now. Whether we live here or anywhere else in the world, he’s it for me. “I know. I want that.”
“I’m more than okay with this. This”—he gestures toward the diner and then at me—“ is all I ever wanted and never thought I’d have.”
“But here, I have Noah by my side, and he has me. We have each other, and that’s really all we need.”
“Who knew the place where I’ve always felt just a little bit trapped could eventually be the home I always wanted it to be? It just took a little bit of courage and a whole lot of Chance.”
“You okay?” — “Yes. I am. I have everything I ever wanted, right here with you.”
“I fucking love you, Coach Noah Asher.” — “I fucking love you too, Assistant Coach Chance Leighton.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 24, 2023
4 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐🎧
I think this was the most surprising couple of them all.
Coach Noah divorced the golden girl of the town, and his daughter has an unwarranted reputation, which puts his reputation at stake.
Then his job seems to be imperil because why would his boss hire Chance, a Big Bend Bear fella, their biggest rival?
He learns to play nice and in return, he finds out why Chance is really there and that he needs a second chance, too.
Their love story is sweet, and I like that it felt like it could have been high drama, but really, it was so very low-key, and they get the support in the most unlikely of places, and I loved that.
I need more books now, please, with more Tim and Liam. Yep, yep, please, pretty please.
I think this was the most surprising couple of them all.
Coach Noah divorced the golden girl of the town, and his daughter has an unwarranted reputation, which puts his reputation at stake.
Then his job seems to be imperil because why would his boss hire Chance, a Big Bend Bear fella, their biggest rival?
He learns to play nice and in return, he finds out why Chance is really there and that he needs a second chance, too.
Their love story is sweet, and I like that it felt like it could have been high drama, but really, it was so very low-key, and they get the support in the most unlikely of places, and I loved that.
I need more books now, please, with more Tim and Liam. Yep, yep, please, pretty please.
August 31, 2023
This was a cute short mm age gap romance! I love that Chance was a safe place for Noah and he was finally able to be himself!
August 29, 2023
5⭐
I love a low angst, age gap, grump/sunshine book, and Nicole Dykes brought all of that in this one.
Noah is the head coach for the Kensley Panthers and Chance is the new assistant coach and former player for the enemy team, the Big Bend Bears.
At first, Noah is skeptical about the new hiring, but as the book goes, Chance finally wears him down and their friendship becames a nice secret relationship.
I loved everything about this book, as always, Dykes didn't disappoint.
This is my second book from this series, the first was Keeper, but I'm sure gonna read the others now.
I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion
I love a low angst, age gap, grump/sunshine book, and Nicole Dykes brought all of that in this one.
Noah is the head coach for the Kensley Panthers and Chance is the new assistant coach and former player for the enemy team, the Big Bend Bears.
At first, Noah is skeptical about the new hiring, but as the book goes, Chance finally wears him down and their friendship becames a nice secret relationship.
I loved everything about this book, as always, Dykes didn't disappoint.
This is my second book from this series, the first was Keeper, but I'm sure gonna read the others now.
I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion
August 31, 2023
4 stars
4th book of an amazing series.
Kensley is a small town when everyone knows everything and for a gay or bisexual person it's difficult to live freely their sexuality. In fact, all the MCs from the previous books moved out from this town to live with their partners without being judged.
I like story with the small town vibes, but Kensley is more "small town, small minds" type. Luckily, there are great people too.
Coach Noah has to face a double "scandal": his wife left him and his daughter (the amazing LeAnn from Keeper) fell in love with his teacher and married him. His job as coach of the High School team is at risk and, in addition to that, he's got a new assistant, a young man from Big Bend, the rival town.
Noah is frustrated, worried and disheartened and it doesn't help at all that he finds himself attracted to Chance.
Chance lost his job in the high school because of another scandal: he's been accused, without proof, to be involved with a student. Chance is kind and amazing and he certainly didn't deserve to be shunned by his own community.
The two men didn't hit it off immediately, but then they started hanging out as friends and they confide in each other: I really liked how their friendship evolved, how they could lean onto each other, how they could be themselves. Even if there's an age gap between them, Chance doesn't appear much younger or immature, he's very considerate about Noah's feelings and he neve pressures him into coming out.
What prevented me from giving 5 stars:
I don't want to leave spoilers, so I'll just say that the whole coming out felt anticlimatic and I would have read at least the players reactions to their coaches dating. And what about Billie? After having instilled all those doubts in Noah, he just disappeared from the story.
Anyway, I love this series and fortunately we'll got another book before it ends. I'm very curious about Protector and I hope we'll see all the guys on last time.
Recommended
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
4th book of an amazing series.
Kensley is a small town when everyone knows everything and for a gay or bisexual person it's difficult to live freely their sexuality. In fact, all the MCs from the previous books moved out from this town to live with their partners without being judged.
I like story with the small town vibes, but Kensley is more "small town, small minds" type. Luckily, there are great people too.
Coach Noah has to face a double "scandal": his wife left him and his daughter (the amazing LeAnn from Keeper) fell in love with his teacher and married him. His job as coach of the High School team is at risk and, in addition to that, he's got a new assistant, a young man from Big Bend, the rival town.
Noah is frustrated, worried and disheartened and it doesn't help at all that he finds himself attracted to Chance.
Chance lost his job in the high school because of another scandal: he's been accused, without proof, to be involved with a student. Chance is kind and amazing and he certainly didn't deserve to be shunned by his own community.
The two men didn't hit it off immediately, but then they started hanging out as friends and they confide in each other: I really liked how their friendship evolved, how they could lean onto each other, how they could be themselves. Even if there's an age gap between them, Chance doesn't appear much younger or immature, he's very considerate about Noah's feelings and he neve pressures him into coming out.
What prevented me from giving 5 stars:
I don't want to leave spoilers, so I'll just say that the whole coming out felt anticlimatic and I would have read at least the players reactions to their coaches dating. And what about Billie? After having instilled all those doubts in Noah, he just disappeared from the story.
Anyway, I love this series and fortunately we'll got another book before it ends. I'm very curious about Protector and I hope we'll see all the guys on last time.
Recommended
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
February 19, 2024
Rating: 4/5 🌟
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
This follows Chance and Noah.
Noah is a 40 year old bisexual man that has been keeping his identity hidden because of the people in the town he lives in. He's divorced with a daughter that is older and married. He's also the coach.
Chance is 25 years old and has been given the job of assistant coach along with Noah. He's gay and out.
They start out as rivals/enemies but slowly that wall is broken down as they start spending more time around one another. Once they start to develop feelings the larger issue of Noah coming out becomes the main focus.
Despite most of the people in the town being horrible the story is pretty low angst. The couple is steady, communicate well, and have patience with one another. It's a sweet and steamy relationship and I'm very happy they got their HEA.
I enjoy this series quite a bit, mostly because I love the MMC's so much. The main theme running through this series is the town that refuses to accept them. It's a heavy theme and while it's handled relatively lightly in the series, it's still a lot to read over and over again in each of the books. I think that's the only reason I haven't found a 5 star in it.
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
This follows Chance and Noah.
Noah is a 40 year old bisexual man that has been keeping his identity hidden because of the people in the town he lives in. He's divorced with a daughter that is older and married. He's also the coach.
Chance is 25 years old and has been given the job of assistant coach along with Noah. He's gay and out.
They start out as rivals/enemies but slowly that wall is broken down as they start spending more time around one another. Once they start to develop feelings the larger issue of Noah coming out becomes the main focus.
Despite most of the people in the town being horrible the story is pretty low angst. The couple is steady, communicate well, and have patience with one another. It's a sweet and steamy relationship and I'm very happy they got their HEA.
I enjoy this series quite a bit, mostly because I love the MMC's so much. The main theme running through this series is the town that refuses to accept them. It's a heavy theme and while it's handled relatively lightly in the series, it's still a lot to read over and over again in each of the books. I think that's the only reason I haven't found a 5 star in it.
September 3, 2023
This is totally fine. This little crush I seem to have on the town’s head football coach.
No big deal.
ARC Review~
If I had to sum up the feeling I get reading Nicole’s books in one word, it would be hope. I love the little town of Kensley even with its flaws because it’s so reminiscent of where I grew up and I can only hope that things have changed and will continue to do so for the better like they are in these books.
I loved this low angst romance between the head and assistant coach! Noah and Chance are so sweet together 🥰 Noah makes Chance work to be his friend but once they hear each other out it’s quick progress to lovers. Surprising no one, the small town rumour mill gets some things right but a whole lot wrong. A really lovely romance with cameos from past characters.
“I’ve given enough to this town. It’s time they either give me something back or let me go. I can’t live my life in secret anymore.”
No big deal.
ARC Review~
If I had to sum up the feeling I get reading Nicole’s books in one word, it would be hope. I love the little town of Kensley even with its flaws because it’s so reminiscent of where I grew up and I can only hope that things have changed and will continue to do so for the better like they are in these books.
I loved this low angst romance between the head and assistant coach! Noah and Chance are so sweet together 🥰 Noah makes Chance work to be his friend but once they hear each other out it’s quick progress to lovers. Surprising no one, the small town rumour mill gets some things right but a whole lot wrong. A really lovely romance with cameos from past characters.
“I’ve given enough to this town. It’s time they either give me something back or let me go. I can’t live my life in secret anymore.”
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