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Breakaway #3
All Hail the Underdogs
When seventeen-year-old Patrick Roman is offered a scholarship to a top hockey preparatory school, he thinks maybe his notorious bad luck has finally ended. With a hearing for his legal emancipation on the horizon, he dreams of getting scouted and securing a place on a D1 college team. There’s only one Roman has serious beef with his new winger on the team, Damien Bordeaux. They’re supposed to be perfectly in sync on the ice. But Roman, with his buzzcut and tattoos, has nothing in common with trust-fund-kid Damien, his floral scrunchies, and designer T-shirts that cost more than all of Roman’s secondhand hockey gear combined. When eighteen-year-old Damien Bordeaux starts his senior year, he tells himself he’s going to focus on hockey and school. No more making out in the stacks, no more dorm parties. He needs to decide what his future will look like. Does he pursue his long-held dream of becoming an author? Or stay in his lane and do what he’s good hockey. Regardless, he’s not going to let any pretty boys distract him from figuring his shit out. Except his new center, Roman, is possibly the most beautiful boy Damien has ever seen. And his hockey—the way he moves on the ice—might be even more beautiful. Too bad he’s also probably a homophobic, racist asshole. But their antagonistic beginning turns into an unlikely friendship and then turns into something much scarier for them both. Navigating relationships is hard enough for normal teenagers. It’s a lot harder when contending with lawyers, NHL scouts, and mutual past trauma. Roman and Damien have to What do they really want in life? Are they willing to fight for each other—including fighting against their own pasts and prejudices—so they can have a happy ending?
389 pages, Paperback
First published August 29, 2023
73 people are currently reading
3075 people want to read
About the author
E.L. Massey
4 books1,007 followersE. L. Massey is a human. Probably. She lives in Colorado with her partner, the best dog in the world (an unbiased assessment), and a frankly excessive collection of books. She spends her holidays climbing mountains and writing fan fiction, occasionally at the same time.
5% of royalties from her first book, LRPD, go to a queer organization each month. So far, readers have helped support organizations like Out Youth, Austin LGBT Coalition on Aging, The Dru Project, and Magic City Acceptance Center. If you want to suggest a beneficiary for future donations, you can do so via:
IG: El_massey
Email: elmasseywrites@gmail.com
Tumblr/AO3 (if you know, you know)
or commenting on a Substack post: https://elmassey.substack.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 562 reviews
September 9, 2023
oh. oh, am i speechless. i didn’t expect this to be as beautiful as it was, to impact me as much as it did. but it did. and i couldn’t have been happier. e.l. massey’s writing style is so goddamn pretty (and that is an understatement) — it reminds me of fanfics in the best ways and it’s just so close to my heart. i was literally kicking my legs up and giggling while reading this, it was that cute and adorable and raw!! the way both rome and damien were rather hostile towards each other in the starting of this, but by the end, they loved each other so hard by understanding and being there for each other through everything. i even cried at certain parts and became so emotional over them as a couple, as well as how some things were dealt with. at its core, this was also so real because of the way it depicted issues like racism, homophobia and money. all the books in this series have been solid four stars from me, cause all of them have their own charm to them, but this one just touches my heart more in some ways because it’s so gorgeous. stunning. these characters have me in such a chokehold. 🥹
this book’s main characters, rome and damien, have gone through so much in their lives. i’d have almost expected this to be a lil darker than the first two books, considering the number of sensitive topics & matter discussed here, but it had that same softness, that same comfort, that same feel of sweetness & adoration & loveliness & sheer perfection attached to it that the first two books did and i loved that so much. the found family was just so prominent in this and it gave me all the feels 😭 and i loved it. the side characters made me laugh helplessly and i wanted to see so much more of them and i hope we have all of their stories pls 🫶 i don’t think i’ll ever have enough of this world.
the chemistry between rome and damien was so subtly there throughout, and i loved it. from the butterfly-inducing hand-holding and smallest gestures they both did for each other to the kisses and clinginess that both of them (mainly rome 😂) had for each other, they had me feeling so much for them and i loved that. 🦋🥺 i especially loved how they had miscommunications in the beginning but both of them tried reaching out to each other in their own ways when they were hurt by the other. i mean — it’s not possible to have a perfect relationship, and this showed all the messiness of that while also being perfectly respectful of boundaries and showing proper communication (i wouldn’t say “like adults” though, because they were teenagers, after all. they fucked up and made mistakes, but they came back to each other and that’s what counts for me). they helped each other overcome their issues, both by being there for each other and knowing when not to be there for each other too — when to stay away because people need alone time, too. and their BANTER??? i was so in love omg. the way damien teases rome and rome flushes and acts all snotty but secretly loves it? my cute boys 🥹 the hurt/comfort was so real with these two. immaculate. absolutely chefs kiss. damien and rome just shared the purest love, end of.
rome. my precious boy. oh my god i love him. he’s so standoffish and closed off but the way he started letting people in, especially damien? the way damien persuaded rome to open his heart, to finally trust someone and let down his guard? rome went through such monumental growth in this and i couldn’t love him more for it. he never believed he deserved any love from anyone, cause he always pushed people away when they tried coming close to him 🥹 but as much as he seemed tough on the outside, he was such a cinnamon roll inside, so soft and squishy and i loved him all the more for that. and helppp it was so funny to see him rebuff and huff at everyone calling him cute when he blushed 😭😂
damien. my lil poet!! from the beginning, i just knew i was gonna love him because i love characters like him — having a seemingly perfect life, giving sunshine energy, with puppy-dog vibes too. but he turned out to have so much depth to him too — abandonment issues, and the way the oppression he faced from society killed him sometimes. i love how damien’s poetry was softly interwoven into the plot!! it wasn’t a huge dramatic thing but it was always there, and while it was never amplified, i love just how MUCH of it was there. and i liked how in the end, it was brought back into their lives in a more serious manner, and damien actually spoke about how it has affected his life.
both of them had to grow up so fast because of the world, though, and i just wanted to give them a hug :( and yet i didn’t not like the twist that came later. yes, i would’ve loved for them to stay in their happy bubble for a little longer, but i also loved the adorable moments that came along with having finley in the picture for them. the way both of them looked at her like she was their sun? and she helped them realize how much of a family they could become, all of them together and intertwined like this? i just… loved it. 🥺
~ i firmly believe two of those people are damien and rome. 🤍
the concept of transformation vs. formation that damien spoke about in the epilogue? i was so captivated by that speech of his. in the end, it just showed me that love was all about being vulnerable — about opening yourself up to the right person, about being brave, about changing yourself with the person you love rather than for. the epilogue is everything to me, and it was perfect in my eyes.
the glimpse of matts and sydney though?? their banter already has me giggling 🤭 i NEED their story asap ma’am. and i already know i’m gonna love them so hard <3 i just know sydney’s gonna put matty in his place when he fucks up (yes, it’s a “when” because i know how insensitive he can be LMAO) and i can’t wait!!
you are
the happiest accident
a book left on the wrong shelf
found by the right hands
an accidental allurement i never want to stop reading
this book’s main characters, rome and damien, have gone through so much in their lives. i’d have almost expected this to be a lil darker than the first two books, considering the number of sensitive topics & matter discussed here, but it had that same softness, that same comfort, that same feel of sweetness & adoration & loveliness & sheer perfection attached to it that the first two books did and i loved that so much. the found family was just so prominent in this and it gave me all the feels 😭 and i loved it. the side characters made me laugh helplessly and i wanted to see so much more of them and i hope we have all of their stories pls 🫶 i don’t think i’ll ever have enough of this world.
the chemistry between rome and damien was so subtly there throughout, and i loved it. from the butterfly-inducing hand-holding and smallest gestures they both did for each other to the kisses and clinginess that both of them (mainly rome 😂) had for each other, they had me feeling so much for them and i loved that. 🦋🥺 i especially loved how they had miscommunications in the beginning but both of them tried reaching out to each other in their own ways when they were hurt by the other. i mean — it’s not possible to have a perfect relationship, and this showed all the messiness of that while also being perfectly respectful of boundaries and showing proper communication (i wouldn’t say “like adults” though, because they were teenagers, after all. they fucked up and made mistakes, but they came back to each other and that’s what counts for me). they helped each other overcome their issues, both by being there for each other and knowing when not to be there for each other too — when to stay away because people need alone time, too. and their BANTER??? i was so in love omg. the way damien teases rome and rome flushes and acts all snotty but secretly loves it? my cute boys 🥹 the hurt/comfort was so real with these two. immaculate. absolutely chefs kiss. damien and rome just shared the purest love, end of.
“you can do better,” rome says. “so much better than me. you’re you. and i’m just…” he shrugs as if that’s all he needs to say.
“you’re just?” damien repeats, incredulous. “what the fuck. there’s nothing just about you.”
rome. my precious boy. oh my god i love him. he’s so standoffish and closed off but the way he started letting people in, especially damien? the way damien persuaded rome to open his heart, to finally trust someone and let down his guard? rome went through such monumental growth in this and i couldn’t love him more for it. he never believed he deserved any love from anyone, cause he always pushed people away when they tried coming close to him 🥹 but as much as he seemed tough on the outside, he was such a cinnamon roll inside, so soft and squishy and i loved him all the more for that. and helppp it was so funny to see him rebuff and huff at everyone calling him cute when he blushed 😭😂
damien. my lil poet!! from the beginning, i just knew i was gonna love him because i love characters like him — having a seemingly perfect life, giving sunshine energy, with puppy-dog vibes too. but he turned out to have so much depth to him too — abandonment issues, and the way the oppression he faced from society killed him sometimes. i love how damien’s poetry was softly interwoven into the plot!! it wasn’t a huge dramatic thing but it was always there, and while it was never amplified, i love just how MUCH of it was there. and i liked how in the end, it was brought back into their lives in a more serious manner, and damien actually spoke about how it has affected his life.
both of them had to grow up so fast because of the world, though, and i just wanted to give them a hug :( and yet i didn’t not like the twist that came later. yes, i would’ve loved for them to stay in their happy bubble for a little longer, but i also loved the adorable moments that came along with having finley in the picture for them. the way both of them looked at her like she was their sun? and she helped them realize how much of a family they could become, all of them together and intertwined like this? i just… loved it. 🥺
maybe there are people who are made of the same sort of dust. people who used to be part of the same star that’s trying to find its way back together again.
~ i firmly believe two of those people are damien and rome. 🤍
the concept of transformation vs. formation that damien spoke about in the epilogue? i was so captivated by that speech of his. in the end, it just showed me that love was all about being vulnerable — about opening yourself up to the right person, about being brave, about changing yourself with the person you love rather than for. the epilogue is everything to me, and it was perfect in my eyes.
the glimpse of matts and sydney though?? their banter already has me giggling 🤭 i NEED their story asap ma’am. and i already know i’m gonna love them so hard <3 i just know sydney’s gonna put matty in his place when he fucks up (yes, it’s a “when” because i know how insensitive he can be LMAO) and i can’t wait!!
September 8, 2023
Loved the first half of the book. In terms of the storyline, it was pretty much what I expected based on the blurb. Just as in the previous books, the characters and their friendships are wonderful. The relationship between Rome and Damien is so adorable and heartwarming.
The story took an unexpected turn in the second half. It was less about school, hockey and their relationship and more about a trope I don't usually like. While I absolutely admire Rome and Damien for making a certain decision, I feel this part of the story was too much. They were already dealing with a lot of issues and things got too serious too fast, before their relationship even had a chance to develop. Why not let them be teenagers? I also wasn't a fan of the time jumps in the epilogue.
The story took an unexpected turn in the second half. It was less about school, hockey and their relationship and more about a trope I don't usually like. While I absolutely admire Rome and Damien for making a certain decision, I feel this part of the story was too much. They were already dealing with a lot of issues and things got too serious too fast, before their relationship even had a chance to develop. Why not let them be teenagers? I also wasn't a fan of the time jumps in the epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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September 8, 2023
"Do you—" Rome reaches for him, maybe a little desperate. "Can you come over here?"
"Here?" Damien asks, climbing onto the bed with him.
"No."
Rome hooks his fingers into Damien's shirt and pulls him closer.
"Here."
rome and damien are my precious boys and i adore them with my whole heart. 😭 while the beginning was a lil slow for me, i was hooked the moment they came to an understanding and, considering my slump lately, the fact that i finished (and loved) this in the end says a lot with how invested i felt after a certain point. i also loved the friendships and some familial moments in this. 🥹
"Here?" Damien asks, climbing onto the bed with him.
"No."
Rome hooks his fingers into Damien's shirt and pulls him closer.
"Here."
rome and damien are my precious boys and i adore them with my whole heart. 😭 while the beginning was a lil slow for me, i was hooked the moment they came to an understanding and, considering my slump lately, the fact that i finished (and loved) this in the end says a lot with how invested i felt after a certain point. i also loved the friendships and some familial moments in this. 🥹
November 22, 2023
You know that feeling when you want to read a book badly? And then you have to wait a loooong time. All Hail the Underdogs was one of my most anticipated 2024 reads until it suddenly got pushed forward to 2023. This introverted human being, aka me, almost danced on the table out of joy. Erica Massey’s books are the softest of softest romcomtraums and I want to read anything she writes, even without reading a blurb. The way she writes comforting stories full of pain and growth, including very likable characters is almost uncanny, and I urge you to read her books if you haven’t yet!
He’d always thought the word love was dangerous, a thing more often used for coercion or justification than romance. And even if it was used kindly it was only kind until it was taken away.
What do I say about All Hail the Underdogs? That this is a perfect story to read in one sitting? That it made my lips pull up in a smile so many times? That Erica’s characters are so extremely lovable even with all their flaws and Rome and Damien are no exception? That the side characters were again so awesome?
”The point is that we love you,” Olly says. “You. Period. And that’s not just Damien. That’s all of us.” … And maybe Damien loves you a little different. … Rome thinks he might need to sit down.
This story warms you like the first rays of spring sun on your face. It comforts you like a blanket wrapped around your body. It makes you soft like a cuddle does with your favorite pet. And it’s written in third person, present tense. My least favorite writing (by far)! But some of my favorite authors like Casey McQuiston and Fredrik Backman do it so well that it instantly becomes my most treasured type of writing, and Erica just belongs to that insanely talented category of authors too!
You are
the happiest accident
A book left on the wrong shelf
Found by the right hands
An accidental allurement I never want to stop reading
I can’t give this story a perfect review. But it doesn’t matter. It just needs to be read and loved. So pick it up, now, you won’t be disappointed. And know that it’s perfectly readable as a standalone.
There’s a want in me for book four. I already read an excerpt. There’s a desperate want in me. Correction. A need. A desperate need …
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He’d always thought the word love was dangerous, a thing more often used for coercion or justification than romance. And even if it was used kindly it was only kind until it was taken away.
What do I say about All Hail the Underdogs? That this is a perfect story to read in one sitting? That it made my lips pull up in a smile so many times? That Erica’s characters are so extremely lovable even with all their flaws and Rome and Damien are no exception? That the side characters were again so awesome?
”The point is that we love you,” Olly says. “You. Period. And that’s not just Damien. That’s all of us.” … And maybe Damien loves you a little different. … Rome thinks he might need to sit down.
This story warms you like the first rays of spring sun on your face. It comforts you like a blanket wrapped around your body. It makes you soft like a cuddle does with your favorite pet. And it’s written in third person, present tense. My least favorite writing (by far)! But some of my favorite authors like Casey McQuiston and Fredrik Backman do it so well that it instantly becomes my most treasured type of writing, and Erica just belongs to that insanely talented category of authors too!
You are
the happiest accident
A book left on the wrong shelf
Found by the right hands
An accidental allurement I never want to stop reading
I can’t give this story a perfect review. But it doesn’t matter. It just needs to be read and loved. So pick it up, now, you won’t be disappointed. And know that it’s perfectly readable as a standalone.
There’s a want in me for book four. I already read an excerpt. There’s a desperate want in me. Correction. A need. A desperate need …
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June 5, 2025
Another incredible story from EL Massey! Though my heart hurts because of the lower-than-expected rating I have to give; I think I’m getting attached to the author’s work 😳
Uff but this one is a very different vibe from the two previous books, right from the start. And that was NOT a bad thing, not at all. Despite the characters being quite young (seventeen, I believe), the overall atmosphere was heavier, more subtle, even melancholy.
Rome and Damien established themselves as incredibly relatable, complex, and lovely characters (though who am I kidding, Rome is an absolute favorite, no contest 💚). And assholes at times, of course.
The tension and dislike between Rome and Damien at the beginning was very genuine - these boys have very differing personalities with contrasting backgrounds, so their social bubbles and troubles clash. Both have different privileges they aren’t conscious of. Soon, they start to challenge each other’s perspective and experiences, they’re both willing to listen and learn without getting defensive, and it was a thing of beauty to witness. Each and every conversation about class, race, and privilege led to another small understanding and brought them closer. And closer. And closer, till they seamlessly became Rome&Damien. I absolutely ADORED watching these beautiful, hurt boys open up for each other 😩
I can’t help but also gush about the exceptional writing because it stood out just as much as the characters. We have two POVs here, and you always know in whose head you’re in because the writing itself complements the character perfectly - especially with Damien being a poet. Massey didn’t just tell us, she showed us with how effortlessly poetic Damien’s mind is, and I was left in awe.
And I’m not one for poetry, never have been. But Damien’s poems hit right in the feels, every damn time, and I would buy his collection in a heartbeat ❤️
I have to admit though, the first half of the book was stronger imo. The story lost its momentum for me after the inclusion of a particular trope I’m not a fan of, I didn’t expect it, and it unfortunately affected my overall enjoyment. I’m probably in the minority, most readers will find it cute and wholesome, and even I appreciate the care and symbolism Massey was probably going for. I’m simply not someone who could connect and relate in any way.
And a thing that makes me pout a bit - the found family aspect wasn’t nearly as prominent here as in LRPD 🥺
Still, I’m convinced there’s some kind of magical ritual going on behind the scenes of creating these stories. Or maybe EL Massey is just that good and knows exactly what we want to read about ❤️ While AHTU wasn’t a perfect read for me, she IS a five-star author for sure!
Now, I can’t thank my dear Pauline enough for bringing me with her on her re-read. I CAN see why it’s your favorite, love, especially Rome, and I loved all the conversations this book sparked off! 🧡
Rome is built out of a sepia palette, a golden out-of-doors creature made for fall forest foliage and cool winds. Against the snowy backdrop of a lit-up winter-clad city, he is something else entirely. An anachronism. A living midnight sunset. Something timeless and untouchable.
”Formation means to create or to build upon. I like to think of personal discovery and developing your perception of self that way, a process of building that needs all the difficult and unsavory experiences at its foundation.”
Uff but this one is a very different vibe from the two previous books, right from the start. And that was NOT a bad thing, not at all. Despite the characters being quite young (seventeen, I believe), the overall atmosphere was heavier, more subtle, even melancholy.
Rome and Damien established themselves as incredibly relatable, complex, and lovely characters (though who am I kidding, Rome is an absolute favorite, no contest 💚). And assholes at times, of course.
The tension and dislike between Rome and Damien at the beginning was very genuine - these boys have very differing personalities with contrasting backgrounds, so their social bubbles and troubles clash. Both have different privileges they aren’t conscious of. Soon, they start to challenge each other’s perspective and experiences, they’re both willing to listen and learn without getting defensive, and it was a thing of beauty to witness. Each and every conversation about class, race, and privilege led to another small understanding and brought them closer. And closer. And closer, till they seamlessly became Rome&Damien. I absolutely ADORED watching these beautiful, hurt boys open up for each other 😩
I can’t help but also gush about the exceptional writing because it stood out just as much as the characters. We have two POVs here, and you always know in whose head you’re in because the writing itself complements the character perfectly - especially with Damien being a poet. Massey didn’t just tell us, she showed us with how effortlessly poetic Damien’s mind is, and I was left in awe.
And I’m not one for poetry, never have been. But Damien’s poems hit right in the feels, every damn time, and I would buy his collection in a heartbeat ❤️
I have to admit though, the first half of the book was stronger imo. The story lost its momentum for me after the inclusion of a particular trope I’m not a fan of, I didn’t expect it, and it unfortunately affected my overall enjoyment. I’m probably in the minority, most readers will find it cute and wholesome, and even I appreciate the care and symbolism Massey was probably going for. I’m simply not someone who could connect and relate in any way.
And a thing that makes me pout a bit - the found family aspect wasn’t nearly as prominent here as in LRPD 🥺
Still, I’m convinced there’s some kind of magical ritual going on behind the scenes of creating these stories. Or maybe EL Massey is just that good and knows exactly what we want to read about ❤️ While AHTU wasn’t a perfect read for me, she IS a five-star author for sure!
Now, I can’t thank my dear Pauline enough for bringing me with her on her re-read. I CAN see why it’s your favorite, love, especially Rome, and I loved all the conversations this book sparked off! 🧡
Rome is built out of a sepia palette, a golden out-of-doors creature made for fall forest foliage and cool winds. Against the snowy backdrop of a lit-up winter-clad city, he is something else entirely. An anachronism. A living midnight sunset. Something timeless and untouchable.
”Formation means to create or to build upon. I like to think of personal discovery and developing your perception of self that way, a process of building that needs all the difficult and unsavory experiences at its foundation.”
December 29, 2024
Reread 12/2024.
My personal Christmas gift ... I'm rereading E.L. Massey's beautiful first 3 books, then I'm going to read the newest release, yay.
This installment is still my favourite, it has stellar character and relationship development. And it has Damien and Rome. How is it even possible to love Damien and Rome so, so much?
Bumping this up to all time favourite.
----------------
Reread 01/2024
Heartwarming and uplifting.
Roman and Damien's story made me so happy, I had the whole time a smile on my face.
It's maybe a bit unrealistic, but no matter, I loved it nevertheless as much as I did last year.
------
09/2023
5 stars!
I loved the author's previous books and I loved this one just as much, if not more ! It's sweet and uplifting, and I'll reread it soon for sure, it's such a fantastic ya romance.
The storyline is beautiful, there's no angst and drama, no miscommunication and unnecessary plot twists or third act break ups. So so refreshing (but typical for E. L. Massey).
The characters are very mature for their age and have distinct voices and personalities, the secondary characters are intersting and supportive.
I loved both Rome and Damien so so much. It was beautiful to see them tentatively get closer, both so unsure of the other (but for very different reasons).
Their friends and families were amazing, too.
I love the author's writing, how she makes me feel so much for her characters is fascinating.
Can'r recommend this book enough (and the two previous ones, too).
My personal Christmas gift ... I'm rereading E.L. Massey's beautiful first 3 books, then I'm going to read the newest release, yay.
This installment is still my favourite, it has stellar character and relationship development. And it has Damien and Rome. How is it even possible to love Damien and Rome so, so much?
Bumping this up to all time favourite.
----------------
Reread 01/2024
Heartwarming and uplifting.
Roman and Damien's story made me so happy, I had the whole time a smile on my face.
It's maybe a bit unrealistic, but no matter, I loved it nevertheless as much as I did last year.
------
09/2023
5 stars!
I loved the author's previous books and I loved this one just as much, if not more ! It's sweet and uplifting, and I'll reread it soon for sure, it's such a fantastic ya romance.
The storyline is beautiful, there's no angst and drama, no miscommunication and unnecessary plot twists or third act break ups. So so refreshing (but typical for E. L. Massey).
The characters are very mature for their age and have distinct voices and personalities, the secondary characters are intersting and supportive.
I loved both Rome and Damien so so much. It was beautiful to see them tentatively get closer, both so unsure of the other (but for very different reasons).
Their friends and families were amazing, too.
I love the author's writing, how she makes me feel so much for her characters is fascinating.
Can'r recommend this book enough (and the two previous ones, too).
September 26, 2023
This book was an experience I'm still reeling from NGL. I've been sitting with a really big feeling, but it's comprised of a whole bunch of, well, feelings. Like one of those tapestries from the middle ages with 12 million fascinating and hideous elements to its visual storytelling, drawing your eye this way and that across the surface... this whole book was like an unfurling myriad of love expressions, made up of everything wonderful to ferocious, running the gamut from sharp toothed to cable knit cozy. Rome and Damien's love story feels like both a fantasy, in their finding and loving one another, and a nightmare, in the reality of the lives they live outside of each other.
Rome and Damien are 17/18 and constantly staring down the maw of that bleak black place inside that houses every fear and insecurity. so this story is rife with that mechanism of scrambling for purchase while navigating everything that's gone (or going) to shit. it's society's ugliness underscoring everything precious. but there's perseverance and real world quality in these characters, because for every marginalized trial they face they find a way to win. and it's thrilling to read!
Massey's books are always spellbinding and deeper than anything i could have imagined from the start. this installment is probably the most thought provoking and prickly, but it's enriching, multifaceted, textured stuff.
09-26-2023 edit: [this review took a long time to write and it took a lot out of me. I’m still thinking about it now, a day later, an ounce of coffee in but wearing my heart really thick. it's not an ideal ending, even if it comes off as a fairytale HEA with the showy successes like poetry awards and nhl contracts. but the takeaway is in the gravitas of growing and in the standing in their reclaimed power that happened before that. it's the way love can steal into the cracks of hurting hearts, filling every gash and slash and cut in an instant. the way they both fell in love with finley at first sight. in a blink. in a breath. and chose her in that moment. chose to be her person, her family. to give her beingness measure as a known instead of other. it's deeply affecting.]
All Hail the Underdogs celebrates the subtle intimacies of falling in love, and along with the social discourse so rare to read with any kind of sincerity in MM romances, i think that makes this one of the more impactful and moving and important reads i've had so far this year. looking forward to rereading these first 3 books as well as everything else E.L. Massey releases in the future!
Rome and Damien are 17/18 and constantly staring down the maw of that bleak black place inside that houses every fear and insecurity. so this story is rife with that mechanism of scrambling for purchase while navigating everything that's gone (or going) to shit. it's society's ugliness underscoring everything precious. but there's perseverance and real world quality in these characters, because for every marginalized trial they face they find a way to win. and it's thrilling to read!
Massey's books are always spellbinding and deeper than anything i could have imagined from the start. this installment is probably the most thought provoking and prickly, but it's enriching, multifaceted, textured stuff.
09-26-2023 edit: [this review took a long time to write and it took a lot out of me. I’m still thinking about it now, a day later, an ounce of coffee in but wearing my heart really thick. it's not an ideal ending, even if it comes off as a fairytale HEA with the showy successes like poetry awards and nhl contracts. but the takeaway is in the gravitas of growing and in the standing in their reclaimed power that happened before that. it's the way love can steal into the cracks of hurting hearts, filling every gash and slash and cut in an instant. the way they both fell in love with finley at first sight. in a blink. in a breath. and chose her in that moment. chose to be her person, her family. to give her beingness measure as a known instead of other. it's deeply affecting.]
All Hail the Underdogs celebrates the subtle intimacies of falling in love, and along with the social discourse so rare to read with any kind of sincerity in MM romances, i think that makes this one of the more impactful and moving and important reads i've had so far this year. looking forward to rereading these first 3 books as well as everything else E.L. Massey releases in the future!
June 4, 2025
This book is my soulmate.
These boys. These broken, wonderful boys.
Rarely have I read such a soft, beautiful, tentative but fierce, all-encompassing but careful love. I had tears in my eyes throughout the entire book because of the softness of it all, the rightness, the brokenness, the utterly convincing development of their characters and their love for each other.
Oh how I felt for them and their loneliness and differences but more importantly their similarities and the way they just wanted to be. Seen. Held. Understood. Loved. Trusted. Accepted. How they came from two completely different worlds but made their own little universe somewhere outside of the bounds of their backgrounds and heritage - they just got to me, went straight to my heart and took up permanent residence.
There were so many scenes that made my heart ache, in the best possible way:
♥️ The hair clipping
🧡 The room make-over
💚 The Green Sweater
♥️ The Knocking on walls and shoulder blades
🧡 Their little acts of service
💚 Their conversations about race, privilege and socioeconomics
♥️ The tentative touches and little flutters
🧡 Jackson pollocks no.5 1948
💚 The roadtrip
♥️ The sitting with each other
🧡 The listening, truly listening
💚 The poems
♥️ The epilogue
This is the best YA book I’ve ever read. Hands down. The writing was gorgeous, all the characters unique and distinct, the setting interesting, the themes incredibly important and beautifully handled. I enjoyed the first half of the book even more than the second and could have maybe done without the *big decision* in the end. That doesn’t change the fact that this is 100% a 5⭐️ read for me though.
I can’t believe I haven’t read this author before but I will rectify it this instance and start reading the first two of the series.
Man, what a wonderful book.
PS: I really, really want Olly’s and Kaner’s story 🥹
Reread 6/25
*sigh*
Everything I said in my original review still stands. This book is so special, and so smart, and so heartbreaking, and so healing, and just so warm. And incredibly well written. I think I highlighted two thirds of the book 🙈
What an absolute joy. Again. Made even more joyful by the wonderful Teru, with whom I could swoon and laugh and cry. Thanks love, as always 🧡
Damien and Rome 4eva. My heart is full ♥️💚
These boys. These broken, wonderful boys.
Rarely have I read such a soft, beautiful, tentative but fierce, all-encompassing but careful love. I had tears in my eyes throughout the entire book because of the softness of it all, the rightness, the brokenness, the utterly convincing development of their characters and their love for each other.
Oh how I felt for them and their loneliness and differences but more importantly their similarities and the way they just wanted to be. Seen. Held. Understood. Loved. Trusted. Accepted. How they came from two completely different worlds but made their own little universe somewhere outside of the bounds of their backgrounds and heritage - they just got to me, went straight to my heart and took up permanent residence.
There were so many scenes that made my heart ache, in the best possible way:
♥️ The hair clipping
🧡 The room make-over
💚 The Green Sweater
♥️ The Knocking on walls and shoulder blades
🧡 Their little acts of service
💚 Their conversations about race, privilege and socioeconomics
♥️ The tentative touches and little flutters
🧡 Jackson pollocks no.5 1948
💚 The roadtrip
♥️ The sitting with each other
🧡 The listening, truly listening
💚 The poems
♥️ The epilogue
This is the best YA book I’ve ever read. Hands down. The writing was gorgeous, all the characters unique and distinct, the setting interesting, the themes incredibly important and beautifully handled. I enjoyed the first half of the book even more than the second and could have maybe done without the *big decision* in the end. That doesn’t change the fact that this is 100% a 5⭐️ read for me though.
I can’t believe I haven’t read this author before but I will rectify it this instance and start reading the first two of the series.
Man, what a wonderful book.
PS: I really, really want Olly’s and Kaner’s story 🥹
Reread 6/25
*sigh*
Everything I said in my original review still stands. This book is so special, and so smart, and so heartbreaking, and so healing, and just so warm. And incredibly well written. I think I highlighted two thirds of the book 🙈
What an absolute joy. Again. Made even more joyful by the wonderful Teru, with whom I could swoon and laugh and cry. Thanks love, as always 🧡
Damien and Rome 4eva. My heart is full ♥️💚
May 10, 2025
this was way too wholesome and cute!
This is a sort of enemies to friends to lovers with a very grumpy boy with a sad past and a loveable and sometimes sad boy.
Damien and Roman were a delight to read, and it was wonderful to see how their relationship developed
This whole series has felt like a hug to my soul.
This is a sort of enemies to friends to lovers with a very grumpy boy with a sad past and a loveable and sometimes sad boy.
Damien and Roman were a delight to read, and it was wonderful to see how their relationship developed
This whole series has felt like a hug to my soul.
August 29, 2023
This beauty is officially out in the world! Go grab a copy and get all up in your feels. 🥰
Ah, my heart. This book was such an emotional journey, friends. I loved every second, it made me smile, laugh, giggle and grin, but mostly cry. Because these characters deserve all the love and happiness in the world and their interactions made my heart sing. They made me happy, just like the characters in Like Real People Do and Like You've Nothing Left to Prove.
There's just something about E.L. Massey's characters that makes you instantly fall in love and root for them, no matter how problematic they may appear at the beginning. The way she sculpts these rocky relationships that go from enemies to friends and then more is just so damn brilliant. I went through so many emotions, I was beyond myself when I finished.
This book tells the story of Patrick Roman (Rome), a 17 year old hockey prodigy and Damien Bordeaux, a rich kid that dabbles in poetry. They're teammates at one of the best hockey prep schools in the US.
I was hooked from the very first chapter
No, that's a lie. I was invested in these characters even before then. We get to briefly meet them at the end of Like You've Nothing Left to Prove, when Rome gets drafted in the NHL on Alex fucking Price's team, the Houston Hellhounds. This book is a prequel, the story of how Rome and Damien meet, how they go from resenting each other because of assumptions made based on their very different backgrounds, to developing the most heartwarming friendship that slowly turns into love and ... family.
They're broken boys, each dealing with their own problems, Rome coming from a broken home and struggling with emotions because of childhood neglect and abuse, and Damien fighting his abandomenet issues that stem from his misunderstood relationship with his adoptive parents. They're so vulnerable towards each other, so open, so raw.. the way they tackle problems together was absolutely beautiful. The character growth is amazing, especially for Rome, he learns to let people in, trust them and accept their love. 😭🤧
The side characters, as always, are magnificent. So supportive and all around good people. And.. Finley!! 🥰
With discussions of racism and discrimination, white privilege and family dynamics, this is a book that will most likely bring you to tears. But trust me, these are good tears, it's therapeutic, and absolutely wonderful.
The book comes out August 29th, and while it can easily be read as a standalone, I must ask you to read the first two books in the series too. They're BEAUTIFUL. ❤️ Thanks to the author for providing an ARC. I'm beyond grateful.
Ah, my heart. This book was such an emotional journey, friends. I loved every second, it made me smile, laugh, giggle and grin, but mostly cry. Because these characters deserve all the love and happiness in the world and their interactions made my heart sing. They made me happy, just like the characters in Like Real People Do and Like You've Nothing Left to Prove.
There's just something about E.L. Massey's characters that makes you instantly fall in love and root for them, no matter how problematic they may appear at the beginning. The way she sculpts these rocky relationships that go from enemies to friends and then more is just so damn brilliant. I went through so many emotions, I was beyond myself when I finished.
This book tells the story of Patrick Roman (Rome), a 17 year old hockey prodigy and Damien Bordeaux, a rich kid that dabbles in poetry. They're teammates at one of the best hockey prep schools in the US.
I was hooked from the very first chapter
No, that's a lie. I was invested in these characters even before then. We get to briefly meet them at the end of Like You've Nothing Left to Prove, when Rome gets drafted in the NHL on Alex fucking Price's team, the Houston Hellhounds. This book is a prequel, the story of how Rome and Damien meet, how they go from resenting each other because of assumptions made based on their very different backgrounds, to developing the most heartwarming friendship that slowly turns into love and ... family.
They're broken boys, each dealing with their own problems, Rome coming from a broken home and struggling with emotions because of childhood neglect and abuse, and Damien fighting his abandomenet issues that stem from his misunderstood relationship with his adoptive parents. They're so vulnerable towards each other, so open, so raw.. the way they tackle problems together was absolutely beautiful. The character growth is amazing, especially for Rome, he learns to let people in, trust them and accept their love. 😭🤧
The side characters, as always, are magnificent. So supportive and all around good people. And.. Finley!! 🥰
With discussions of racism and discrimination, white privilege and family dynamics, this is a book that will most likely bring you to tears. But trust me, these are good tears, it's therapeutic, and absolutely wonderful.
The book comes out August 29th, and while it can easily be read as a standalone, I must ask you to read the first two books in the series too. They're BEAUTIFUL. ❤️ Thanks to the author for providing an ARC. I'm beyond grateful.
September 1, 2023
I've said it before and I'll say it again, E.L. Massey knows how to write love. Not just attraction or sex, but honest to goodness L-O-V-E. Ugh, it's such swoony goodness! The lingering looks. The shoulder knocks. The elbow grazes. The hand holding. The support and patience and understanding and encouragement. And my personal favorite - when a character has to take a moment, a breath, because of something the other character says or does that hits them square in the chest. There were a lot of moments like that between Damien and Rome. They were both young and dumb and floundering in their own frustrating ways, but when they would pause to look at each other in complete awe, I would melt into a gooey mess on the floor. And don't even get me started on those double knocks...❤️❤️❤️
I loved the way topics like race, privilege and class were broached in this story. It could have easily come across as heavy handed or preachy, but I never felt like it did. Damien had the benefit of being well off, but the disadvantage of having brown skin while navigating primarily white spaces. Rome had the privilege of being a cis, white, het-presenting man, but the disadvantage of being well and truly poor. I liked the way they were able to surprise and educate each other, both by subverting stereotypes and assumptions and by simply paying attention and communicating. It's amazing what happens when we stop talking about people and start talking and listening to them.
This was definitely a hockey romance for people who don't like a lot of hockey with their romance. Hockey was mentioned more than it was actually played. I can see how that might bother a sports fan, but since I'm not one of those, there will be no points deducted by me. As a fan of poetry, however, I was really impressed by the poems in this book. One in particular really spoke to me. I also loved the idea of formation vs transformation. It's always nice when a book makes you think well after The End.
I cannot wait for book #4! I was happily surprised to learn that Matts would get a book in this series, but after reading the sneak peak at the end of this one, I'm beyond excited!
I loved the way topics like race, privilege and class were broached in this story. It could have easily come across as heavy handed or preachy, but I never felt like it did. Damien had the benefit of being well off, but the disadvantage of having brown skin while navigating primarily white spaces. Rome had the privilege of being a cis, white, het-presenting man, but the disadvantage of being well and truly poor. I liked the way they were able to surprise and educate each other, both by subverting stereotypes and assumptions and by simply paying attention and communicating. It's amazing what happens when we stop talking about people and start talking and listening to them.
This was definitely a hockey romance for people who don't like a lot of hockey with their romance. Hockey was mentioned more than it was actually played. I can see how that might bother a sports fan, but since I'm not one of those, there will be no points deducted by me. As a fan of poetry, however, I was really impressed by the poems in this book. One in particular really spoke to me. I also loved the idea of formation vs transformation. It's always nice when a book makes you think well after The End.
I cannot wait for book #4! I was happily surprised to learn that Matts would get a book in this series, but after reading the sneak peak at the end of this one, I'm beyond excited!
December 4, 2023
4.5 stars
This was absolutely adorable. Beautiful. Gorgeous. Heartwarming. Funny. Lovely. Sweet.
OMG I LOVED DAMIEN AND ROME SO MUCH.
The book dealt with some heavy topics, but did it in a loving heartwarming way.
Why not 5 stars? I really really really don't like long detailed epilogues. I would have been very happy to just imagine their future rather than have it described in steps.
This was absolutely adorable. Beautiful. Gorgeous. Heartwarming. Funny. Lovely. Sweet.
OMG I LOVED DAMIEN AND ROME SO MUCH.
The book dealt with some heavy topics, but did it in a loving heartwarming way.
Why not 5 stars? I really really really don't like long detailed epilogues. I would have been very happy to just imagine their future rather than have it described in steps.
January 10, 2025
I'm so utterly delighted and happy and in love! Rome and Damien are grumpy/sunshine + opposites attract perfection.
All Hail the Underdogs reminded me why I love to read! Massey's fanfic roots are obvious and she makes use of them in the best way with her published work, too.
All Hail the Underdogs reminded me why I love to read! Massey's fanfic roots are obvious and she makes use of them in the best way with her published work, too.
September 19, 2023
This book isn’t hurt comfort, it’s only comfort comfort. Her books are the absolute sweetest, who needs therapy.
After absolutely devouring and loving the first two Breakaway books I couldn’t wait to read about another couple of idiots on skates to fall in love. I inhaled this book in two days and by now I am convinced Erica isn’t able to write a bad book, because this was also excellent!!!
Opposites attract, hate to love…and they were teammates who are also roommates! I mean?!
Between being right in the middle of the fight for his legal emancipation from his father, moving into a house full of strangers, studying and working as a mechanic to make a living, the last thing Patrick Roman needs is some richboy who has never had a single problem in his life. At least that’s what his first impressions is of Damian Bordeaux.
But they work perfectly on the ice, so being forced together lets both of them see behind the others facade.
.
This was an absolutely beautiful story! Even though both MCs deal with past trauma and ongoing (family) problems none of this took away from the absolute comfort of this story.
It’s a story about feeling save for the first time, being loved unconditionally and the sun coming out at the end of a thunderstorm.
After absolutely devouring and loving the first two Breakaway books I couldn’t wait to read about another couple of idiots on skates to fall in love. I inhaled this book in two days and by now I am convinced Erica isn’t able to write a bad book, because this was also excellent!!!
Opposites attract, hate to love…and they were teammates who are also roommates! I mean?!
Between being right in the middle of the fight for his legal emancipation from his father, moving into a house full of strangers, studying and working as a mechanic to make a living, the last thing Patrick Roman needs is some richboy who has never had a single problem in his life. At least that’s what his first impressions is of Damian Bordeaux.
But they work perfectly on the ice, so being forced together lets both of them see behind the others facade.
.
This was an absolutely beautiful story! Even though both MCs deal with past trauma and ongoing (family) problems none of this took away from the absolute comfort of this story.
It’s a story about feeling save for the first time, being loved unconditionally and the sun coming out at the end of a thunderstorm.
January 1, 2024
This will forever be: the book that cheered me up at Christmas when I was missing my mum. So thanks for that, E.L Massey. You really did me a solid.
THE PREMISE: two ice hockey team mates who couldn’t be more different (and thus hate each other) become really good friends, fall in love and do lots of incredibly adorable, domestic shit.
TROPES & VIBES:
- Enemies to friends to lovers
- Phenomenal shit-talking bants
- I loved the writing style and tone
- ‘We’re actually dating but haven’t realised yet’
- He writes poetry about him <3
STARS OFF FOR: the pacing for the whole book was quite rushed, while also being a reasonably slow-moving slice-of-life plot, which just felt a bit jarring.
4.25⭐️ No🌶️ (YA)
THE PREMISE: two ice hockey team mates who couldn’t be more different (and thus hate each other) become really good friends, fall in love and do lots of incredibly adorable, domestic shit.
TROPES & VIBES:
- Enemies to friends to lovers
- Phenomenal shit-talking bants
- I loved the writing style and tone
- ‘We’re actually dating but haven’t realised yet’
- He writes poetry about him <3
STARS OFF FOR: the pacing for the whole book was quite rushed, while also being a reasonably slow-moving slice-of-life plot, which just felt a bit jarring.
4.25⭐️ No🌶️ (YA)
February 9, 2024
The first half of this, or slightly less than, was really damn good. This author is clearly a talented writer.
The writing starts to drag a bit around half way and gets a bit shaky, which I didn’t experience in the previous two books. Then around 63% the book completely loses the plot and eventually I just started skimming because it became some horrific gay One Tree Hill mimicry-type shit that I certainly didn’t want to read about and that didn’t make sense. I started to get really angry because this is supposed to be YA and it just went wild. I had a true “what the fuck is happening?” moment.
I also felt like there was a lot of unanswered questions. My major one is: if Rome’s extended family was so supportive and kind, where the fuck were they when his dad was beating him!?
The writing starts to drag a bit around half way and gets a bit shaky, which I didn’t experience in the previous two books. Then around 63% the book completely loses the plot and eventually I just started skimming because it became some horrific gay One Tree Hill mimicry-type shit that I certainly didn’t want to read about and that didn’t make sense. I started to get really angry because this is supposed to be YA and it just went wild. I had a true “what the fuck is happening?” moment.
I also felt like there was a lot of unanswered questions. My major one is: if Rome’s extended family was so supportive and kind, where the fuck were they when his dad was beating him!?
July 5, 2025
RTC 🩷
December 7, 2023
so close to perfection🤌🤌 beautiful characters
the dynamic between these two, their development from closed of to this —
“Instead of finding Damien’s bleary-eyed morning grumpiness obnoxious, Rome now sets his alarm five minutes early so he can let Damien pull him back into the bed a few times before they actually get up”
just please read it
the dynamic between these two, their development from closed of to this —
“Instead of finding Damien’s bleary-eyed morning grumpiness obnoxious, Rome now sets his alarm five minutes early so he can let Damien pull him back into the bed a few times before they actually get up”
just please read it
June 26, 2024
E.L. Massey has published 3 books so far. I've read all 3 of them in 2024. I loved them all and gave 5 stars. And all 3 of her books made it to the list of "my favourite books of 2024"! Quite impressive no?
Guess it's high time I add E.L. Massey to the list of my favorite authors
"All Hail the Underdogs" is the third book in the Breakway series, which is a mm hockey romance series. It's neither young adult nor adult; I guess we could call it new adult romance. Our two main characters, Damien and Rome, are so precious. I loved the characterization in this book. The author takes her sweet time to slowly but perfectly develop the characters over the course of the story. Especially Rome's personal growth was pretty impressive. I just felt like a proud parent!
Guess it's high time I add E.L. Massey to the list of my favorite authors
"All Hail the Underdogs" is the third book in the Breakway series, which is a mm hockey romance series. It's neither young adult nor adult; I guess we could call it new adult romance. Our two main characters, Damien and Rome, are so precious. I loved the characterization in this book. The author takes her sweet time to slowly but perfectly develop the characters over the course of the story. Especially Rome's personal growth was pretty impressive. I just felt like a proud parent!
January 29, 2024
oh my god. OH MY GOD. oh my god.
please, please, please!! i need more of those hockey players, please!! i'm in love with all of them and how all the stories are tangled.
also, finley??? it was so cute, and i know damien had a epiphany but i had one too so...cool.
i'm already missing those guys and i c-a-n-t wait to read more about them, their stories and etc.
please, please, please!! i need more of those hockey players, please!! i'm in love with all of them and how all the stories are tangled.
also, finley??? it was so cute, and i know damien had a epiphany but i had one too so...cool.
i'm already missing those guys and i c-a-n-t wait to read more about them, their stories and etc.
August 26, 2023
E.L Massey, bestie, you know how to make me emotional holy shit.
This series has become my favorite and each book has left me more emotional, unstable and happy than the previous one.
This one though? Wow I was not expecting anything in this and it was perfect. Damien and Rome are everything.
Rome hits a little close to him in the sense that he doesn’t think he deserves good things. He had a rough life but man he deserved everything and Damien was there to help. They both helped each other through so much at such a young age😭
“You’re one of the strongest people I know.”
One of his hands slides up to splay, palm down, over the center of Rome’s chest. “But strong people need gentleness, too, sometimes.”
😭🩵 I need a minute
THE EPILOGUE THOUGH???? everyone knows I have a thing for epilogues and it can make or break a book for me but wow this was perfect in every way.
“Maybe there are people who are made of the same sort of dust. People who used to be part of the same star that’s trying to find its way back together again.”
Wow I love them endlessly
This series has become my favorite and each book has left me more emotional, unstable and happy than the previous one.
This one though? Wow I was not expecting anything in this and it was perfect. Damien and Rome are everything.
Rome hits a little close to him in the sense that he doesn’t think he deserves good things. He had a rough life but man he deserved everything and Damien was there to help. They both helped each other through so much at such a young age😭
“You’re one of the strongest people I know.”
One of his hands slides up to splay, palm down, over the center of Rome’s chest. “But strong people need gentleness, too, sometimes.”
😭🩵 I need a minute
THE EPILOGUE THOUGH???? everyone knows I have a thing for epilogues and it can make or break a book for me but wow this was perfect in every way.
“Maybe there are people who are made of the same sort of dust. People who used to be part of the same star that’s trying to find its way back together again.”
Wow I love them endlessly
September 2, 2023
"He wakes up to a persuasive mouth under his ear and slow kisses interspersed with laughter and what might very well be something close to I love you trying to force its way from behind his clenched teeth."
I LOVED THIS! If I could inject the serotonin E.L. Massey's books give me into my veins i would. She hasn't written a single thing that I haven't been obsessed with, and Rome and Damien were no different.
Whilst they have some animosity towards each other in the beginning, once they take the time to understand each other, it was *chefs kiss*. I also loved how shy Rome is, especially with how tough he pretended to be. The way they supported each other was enough to revive my cold, dead heart. They had the sweetest, purest kind of love. I never wanted it to be over 🥹🥹🥹
DYING FOR MATTS AND SYDNEY NOW 🥰
I LOVED THIS! If I could inject the serotonin E.L. Massey's books give me into my veins i would. She hasn't written a single thing that I haven't been obsessed with, and Rome and Damien were no different.
Whilst they have some animosity towards each other in the beginning, once they take the time to understand each other, it was *chefs kiss*. I also loved how shy Rome is, especially with how tough he pretended to be. The way they supported each other was enough to revive my cold, dead heart. They had the sweetest, purest kind of love. I never wanted it to be over 🥹🥹🥹
DYING FOR MATTS AND SYDNEY NOW 🥰
December 12, 2023
Pleasant enough, though the YA aspect softened the edges of conflicts that would have been more interesting unsoftened.
August 23, 2023
<“Are they flirting again?” Chai asks Olly, sotto voce, from the kitchen doorway. “Or are they fighting?”
“Hard to tell with them,” Olly murmurs back.
“I think it’s both,” Kaner says helpfully.>
This book, this freaking book, it took my heart and hugged it hard, squeezed feelings out of it, slapped some tears on my face, spanked my soul with happiness. I may just be a poet like Damien.
All Hail the Underdogs tells us the story of how Rome and Damien met and fell in love. It's enemies to lovers, it's slow burn, it's being vulnerable for the first time, it's knowing that you were wrong and learning to apologize, it's putting aside your prejudices to see the person underneath, it's growing up, it's allowing people inside your safe space and letting them help you, it's cuddles, small gestures of love, kisses, banter, healing from trauma, new beginnings, new experiences. It's so much and also more. I loved it when it made me mad, when I laughed and when I cried, when I gasped in surprise and when everything came together for not one but two beautiful epilogues.
Rome and Damien could not be more different, and that's why Rome full on hated Damien from the day he met him. Fighting outside the ice, chemistry on the ice, the perfect combo for an enemies to lovers. It was so emotional and it dealed with a lot of things that made me want to hug them both so much. Being vulnerable is not easy and when they finally opened up, my heart hurt. The emotions that the author gives us with beautiful words, poems from Damien's heart, they go beyond letting us know how the characters feel. All the feels, I knew it was going to happen, yet I'm never fully ready!
“Hard to tell with them,” Olly murmurs back.
“I think it’s both,” Kaner says helpfully.>
This book, this freaking book, it took my heart and hugged it hard, squeezed feelings out of it, slapped some tears on my face, spanked my soul with happiness. I may just be a poet like Damien.
All Hail the Underdogs tells us the story of how Rome and Damien met and fell in love. It's enemies to lovers, it's slow burn, it's being vulnerable for the first time, it's knowing that you were wrong and learning to apologize, it's putting aside your prejudices to see the person underneath, it's growing up, it's allowing people inside your safe space and letting them help you, it's cuddles, small gestures of love, kisses, banter, healing from trauma, new beginnings, new experiences. It's so much and also more. I loved it when it made me mad, when I laughed and when I cried, when I gasped in surprise and when everything came together for not one but two beautiful epilogues.
Rome and Damien could not be more different, and that's why Rome full on hated Damien from the day he met him. Fighting outside the ice, chemistry on the ice, the perfect combo for an enemies to lovers. It was so emotional and it dealed with a lot of things that made me want to hug them both so much. Being vulnerable is not easy and when they finally opened up, my heart hurt. The emotions that the author gives us with beautiful words, poems from Damien's heart, they go beyond letting us know how the characters feel. All the feels, I knew it was going to happen, yet I'm never fully ready!
August 30, 2023
fav of the series so far. i love you patrick roman
September 1, 2023
This book is just one of the cutest fluffy comfort reads. An easy one to want to read in one sitting.
While at first glance this is marketed as a bit of a hockey romance, I wouldn’t let that turn you off it if you are someone who doesn’t enjoy sports romances. It’s more a cute coming of age, romance and the characters just happen to play hockey during the development of their relationship.
I thought that the themes of classism and racism were handled in a surprisingly deft manner and I found myself invested in the development of the relationship, the growth of the characters and their chemistry together was adorable. Fade to black though so this isn’t the book to look to for spice.
I’ll be going through this authors back catalog if their other works are this sweet and emotional.
While at first glance this is marketed as a bit of a hockey romance, I wouldn’t let that turn you off it if you are someone who doesn’t enjoy sports romances. It’s more a cute coming of age, romance and the characters just happen to play hockey during the development of their relationship.
I thought that the themes of classism and racism were handled in a surprisingly deft manner and I found myself invested in the development of the relationship, the growth of the characters and their chemistry together was adorable. Fade to black though so this isn’t the book to look to for spice.
I’ll be going through this authors back catalog if their other works are this sweet and emotional.
January 2, 2026
Damien, who wants to know Rome’s weaknesses not so he can use those weaknesses against him, but so he can know how to love Rome better.
Maybe. Or, maybe not love.
He wonders if it is love though.
He wants it to be love.
Maybe. Or, maybe not love.
He wonders if it is love though.
He wants it to be love.
August 31, 2025
SHUT THE F UP, MKAY?! i need you guys to drop everything and just go and read this masterpiece. PLEASE!!
GAAHHH!! it was BEAUTIFUL. Excruciatingly tender and so damn heart melting. Who would've thought i would fall in love with a YA high school romance and vow to make it my entire personality for the upcoming week and gush about it to everyone i encounter for said week? No one, right? But i did! Like Real People Do was an amazing rollercoaster of feelings on it's own but the hold this book and Rome and Damien had over me? I. Am. Smitten.
Rome and Damien, my two utterly cute cinnamon rolls with Rome being the 'looks like could kill you, is a cinnamon roll' and Damien giving the 'looks like a cinnamon roll, is a cinnamon roll' vibes. I just want to shrink them both and keep them in my pocket forever, only to take them out for a couple smooches here and there. Damien was such a cutie pie from the beginning and ngl it was love at first sight for him (yes, it was!) and Rome literally went from fuck you (derogatory) to fuck you (your face is pretty and i might want to kiss it) to fuck you (i love you and i want to raise a baby with you) and i loved every second of it. The pace of it all might've been a little fast but i was a-okay with it. My only complaint? It should've definitely been at least 300 pages more of them and Finley growing up (i would literally give you my kidney for that Erica darling, please make it happen!!)
Also, i started reading it with Elvis' Can't Help Falling In Love playing in the bg and i kid you not this book actually feels like slowly falling in love with someone with this very song playing in the bg. Just go and fucking read it please
GAAHHH!! it was BEAUTIFUL. Excruciatingly tender and so damn heart melting. Who would've thought i would fall in love with a YA high school romance and vow to make it my entire personality for the upcoming week and gush about it to everyone i encounter for said week? No one, right? But i did! Like Real People Do was an amazing rollercoaster of feelings on it's own but the hold this book and Rome and Damien had over me? I. Am. Smitten.
Rome and Damien, my two utterly cute cinnamon rolls with Rome being the 'looks like could kill you, is a cinnamon roll' and Damien giving the 'looks like a cinnamon roll, is a cinnamon roll' vibes. I just want to shrink them both and keep them in my pocket forever, only to take them out for a couple smooches here and there. Damien was such a cutie pie from the beginning and ngl it was love at first sight for him (yes, it was!) and Rome literally went from fuck you (derogatory) to fuck you (your face is pretty and i might want to kiss it) to fuck you (i love you and i want to raise a baby with you) and i loved every second of it. The pace of it all might've been a little fast but i was a-okay with it. My only complaint? It should've definitely been at least 300 pages more of them and Finley growing up (i would literally give you my kidney for that Erica darling, please make it happen!!)
Also, i started reading it with Elvis' Can't Help Falling In Love playing in the bg and i kid you not this book actually feels like slowly falling in love with someone with this very song playing in the bg. Just go and fucking read it please
September 16, 2023
4.5 stars
E. L. Massey write more for us, please!
E. L. Massey write more for us, please!
August 21, 2023
Ok so E.L. Massey’s first two books in the Breakaway series altered my brain chemistry. I loved them so much and y’all should have heard the scream I screamt when I received an ARC for the third book in the series, All Hail the Underdogs.
All Hail the Underdogs introduces readers to teenagers Patrick Roman aka Rome (not Patrick, not Roman, just Rome- this is important) and Damien Bordeaux. Rome is a hockey phenomenon accepted to one of the best hockey prep high schools in the country. Rome comes from a life of poverty, neglect, and abuse. He’s grumpy and extremely leery of others. His sole focus is to do well in school and excel at hockey in order to enter the NHL draft.
Damien grew up in the lap of luxury. A Black boy adopted by wealthy, white parents, Rome can’t help but scoff at the privilege he assumes Damien has as a result of his wealth. But while Damien is a ray of sunshine exuding cinnamon roll vibes, absentee parents and systematic racism plague his everyday life. As the two athletes begin to get glimpses into one another’s lives, they begin to grow as individuals, teammates, friends, and eventually more.
E.L. did it again. I loved this book. I’m going to warn you that this definitely deals with some heavy ass shit compared to Like Real People Do and Like You’ve Nothing Left to Prove, so please heed the CWs that E.L. provides at the beginning of the book. My boys were going through it and my heart broke for both of them at times. The boathouse scene? Girl stop. Have your tissues readyyy my friends. But their enemies to lovers story was beautiful; full of growth and resilience from both boys. I really hope we get to see more of Rome and Damien (and Finley the littlest loml) with the Hell Hounds in book 4; let’s goooo Matts redemption arc!
Thank you so much to the author for this ARC 💕
**Ebook pre-order is available now on Amazon and Nine Star Press. And if you order from the publisher (same price as Amazon) you’ll receive the book early on 8/25/23 vs 8/29/23 👀 Check out the link in E.L.’s bio.
All Hail the Underdogs introduces readers to teenagers Patrick Roman aka Rome (not Patrick, not Roman, just Rome- this is important) and Damien Bordeaux. Rome is a hockey phenomenon accepted to one of the best hockey prep high schools in the country. Rome comes from a life of poverty, neglect, and abuse. He’s grumpy and extremely leery of others. His sole focus is to do well in school and excel at hockey in order to enter the NHL draft.
Damien grew up in the lap of luxury. A Black boy adopted by wealthy, white parents, Rome can’t help but scoff at the privilege he assumes Damien has as a result of his wealth. But while Damien is a ray of sunshine exuding cinnamon roll vibes, absentee parents and systematic racism plague his everyday life. As the two athletes begin to get glimpses into one another’s lives, they begin to grow as individuals, teammates, friends, and eventually more.
E.L. did it again. I loved this book. I’m going to warn you that this definitely deals with some heavy ass shit compared to Like Real People Do and Like You’ve Nothing Left to Prove, so please heed the CWs that E.L. provides at the beginning of the book. My boys were going through it and my heart broke for both of them at times. The boathouse scene? Girl stop. Have your tissues readyyy my friends. But their enemies to lovers story was beautiful; full of growth and resilience from both boys. I really hope we get to see more of Rome and Damien (and Finley the littlest loml) with the Hell Hounds in book 4; let’s goooo Matts redemption arc!
Thank you so much to the author for this ARC 💕
**Ebook pre-order is available now on Amazon and Nine Star Press. And if you order from the publisher (same price as Amazon) you’ll receive the book early on 8/25/23 vs 8/29/23 👀 Check out the link in E.L.’s bio.
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