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For Puck's Sake #10
Neutral Zone Trap
I want something true.
Torin
Hiding behind my mascot mask has always worked in my favor. As someone with social anxiety and paralyzing shyness, the ability to be out in the world without being seen is the only way I’m able to function. It also means I can long for my crush from afar without him knowing.
I’m invisible inside my costume and try to go unseen otherwise. Except that Hugo always sees me because he’s such a sweet, kind, thoughtful man. Is it any surprise that I’m completely in love with him?
What starts out as an accidental anonymous text turns into a date but there’s just one problem. Hugo thinks he’s texting a girl. What happens when he finds out that’s not the case?
Hugo
When my closest friends all pair up, I’m left as the unpartnered ninth wheel, which becomes awkward and makes me feel out of place. That’s where my new friend, Torin, comes in.
The face behind the Surry the Seal is Torin Jonah. He’s so quiet and nice, I try to always make sure to say hi to him when I see him. It’s not hard to make sure someone knows that you see them.
We start hanging out all the time - having sleepovers, platonic cuddling, maybe a little throwback to teenage mutual jerking sessions in the shower amongst bros. When I tell him that I’ve been talking to this girl and I think I like her, suddenly I feel like I’m being unfaithful to him.
Now I’m not sure what to do. Date this girl or maybe see if Torin could possibly be interested in me and see what happens.
This is a LGBTQIA+ story with content not intended for those under 18 years of age due to graphic scenes and situations.
Torin
Hiding behind my mascot mask has always worked in my favor. As someone with social anxiety and paralyzing shyness, the ability to be out in the world without being seen is the only way I’m able to function. It also means I can long for my crush from afar without him knowing.
I’m invisible inside my costume and try to go unseen otherwise. Except that Hugo always sees me because he’s such a sweet, kind, thoughtful man. Is it any surprise that I’m completely in love with him?
What starts out as an accidental anonymous text turns into a date but there’s just one problem. Hugo thinks he’s texting a girl. What happens when he finds out that’s not the case?
Hugo
When my closest friends all pair up, I’m left as the unpartnered ninth wheel, which becomes awkward and makes me feel out of place. That’s where my new friend, Torin, comes in.
The face behind the Surry the Seal is Torin Jonah. He’s so quiet and nice, I try to always make sure to say hi to him when I see him. It’s not hard to make sure someone knows that you see them.
We start hanging out all the time - having sleepovers, platonic cuddling, maybe a little throwback to teenage mutual jerking sessions in the shower amongst bros. When I tell him that I’ve been talking to this girl and I think I like her, suddenly I feel like I’m being unfaithful to him.
Now I’m not sure what to do. Date this girl or maybe see if Torin could possibly be interested in me and see what happens.
This is a LGBTQIA+ story with content not intended for those under 18 years of age due to graphic scenes and situations.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 7, 2024
256 people are currently reading
536 people want to read
About the author
Crea Reitan
108 books1,144 followersCrea lives in upstate New York with her dog and husband. She has been writing since grade school, when her second grade teacher had her class keep writing journals. She has a habit of creating secondary, and often time tertiary, characters that take over her stories. When she can't fall asleep at night, she thinks up new scenes for her characters to act out. This, of course, is how most of her meant-to-be-thrown-away characters tend to end up front and center - and utterly swoon-worthy! Don't ask her how many book boyfriends she has...
When not writing, Crea is an avid reader. Her TBR pile is several hundred books high (don't even look at her kindle wish list or the unread books on her tablet). Sometimes, she enjoys crafting; sometimes, exploring nature; sometimes, traveling. Mostly, she enjoys putting her characters on paper and breathing life into them. Oh, and sleeping. Crea loves to sleep!
When not writing, Crea is an avid reader. Her TBR pile is several hundred books high (don't even look at her kindle wish list or the unread books on her tablet). Sometimes, she enjoys crafting; sometimes, exploring nature; sometimes, traveling. Mostly, she enjoys putting her characters on paper and breathing life into them. Oh, and sleeping. Crea loves to sleep!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
December 15, 2024
I just cannot keep reading the same conversations over and over between the MCs about their sexuality with very little sex. Many scenes of intimacy fade to black while I am aware there was no sex beyond cuddling and kissing and conversation.
I really tried to keep reading, but the scene at 72% where one MC is fondling, stroking, and feeling up the other while they are nude and talking, so much talking, about their childhood hangups and being demisexual for one MC and anxiety ridden for the other, was too much when I knew it wasn’t going anywhere except fade to black.
I understand the world does not revolve around sex, but when a reader chooses a book with that cover, they are expecting some intercourse. Instead, I got a college course in alphabet expectations and experiences from all of the friends group. Preaching to a reader who is accepting of lifestyles and sexuality’s got so boring, so fast. I eventually skipped over everyone of those scenes. And there are a lot of them. This is a book of talking. The only sweaty action is on the ice. No joke.
This was the most introspective and soul searching group of hockey players I have ever seen in a book.
There was nary a curse word or heightened emotions.
It was all quiet voices and amused smiles between the side character couples. Again, these are hot hockey players who play some fierce games. I wasn’t sure if they were real guys.
The hockey player MC’s enormous cock was almost a third character. There is a huge amount of talking about it and how MC doesn’t wear underwear because it doesn’t fit around it. He wears gray sweats everywhere with it swinging loose. You know, this was so ridiculous I should have stopped reading. I just kept waiting for some action with it besides some hand and blowjobs. All written with low heat.
When I began reading this book I could tell that it was different. Eventually the disappointment set in that this was a relationship of cuddling. And talking. So much talking. DNF
I really tried to keep reading, but the scene at 72% where one MC is fondling, stroking, and feeling up the other while they are nude and talking, so much talking, about their childhood hangups and being demisexual for one MC and anxiety ridden for the other, was too much when I knew it wasn’t going anywhere except fade to black.
I understand the world does not revolve around sex, but when a reader chooses a book with that cover, they are expecting some intercourse. Instead, I got a college course in alphabet expectations and experiences from all of the friends group. Preaching to a reader who is accepting of lifestyles and sexuality’s got so boring, so fast. I eventually skipped over everyone of those scenes. And there are a lot of them. This is a book of talking. The only sweaty action is on the ice. No joke.
This was the most introspective and soul searching group of hockey players I have ever seen in a book.
There was nary a curse word or heightened emotions.
It was all quiet voices and amused smiles between the side character couples. Again, these are hot hockey players who play some fierce games. I wasn’t sure if they were real guys.
The hockey player MC’s enormous cock was almost a third character. There is a huge amount of talking about it and how MC doesn’t wear underwear because it doesn’t fit around it. He wears gray sweats everywhere with it swinging loose. You know, this was so ridiculous I should have stopped reading. I just kept waiting for some action with it besides some hand and blowjobs. All written with low heat.
When I began reading this book I could tell that it was different. Eventually the disappointment set in that this was a relationship of cuddling. And talking. So much talking. DNF
February 4, 2025
Tropes: friends to lovers, workplace romance, secret identity, player/mascot
Feels: 2/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: size kink, snuggling
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: social anxiety, panic attacks, concussions, brief amnesia, demisexual and Demi romantic rep, somewhat distant relationship with family, pining, Hugo comes off as neurodiverse
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: they've known each other for a couple years and Torin has been pining over Hugo. Hugo goes home with random women almost everyday for a long while and Torin is hurt in his feels over it. There is hookups with other women off page during the first 20 to 30%, it's before anything happens between Hugo and Torin. For the first 46%, Hugo thinks he is talking to a woman online and pursuing a romantic relationship with her while at the same time he is cuddling and kind of sexually touching Torin, but both people are actually Torin. It's a weird gray zone where if they weren't the same person it's almost like Hugo is leading one of them on / cheating?
3 stars
Hugo is 28 and he is a decently successful NHL player. He doesn't think the way that other people think. He always has questions and he wants to understand things, and it turns out it's largely because he doesn't feel things the same way as other people. He's very blunt with his questions and he unintentionally offends a lot of people with his questions, but he means no offense, he just struggles with understanding emotions and nuances of communication. He comes off as neurodiverse. He's on a journey where he comes to a realization that he is demisexual and Demi romantic at least those are the best labels that seem to resonate with him. All of his close friends have coupled up and he feels like a third wheel anytime he hangs out with them. So he started spending more time with the team's mascot, Torin, and he's been chatting over text with someone he thinks is a random woman.
Torin is 24, gay, and he is very shy and suffers social anxiety. He works as the team mascot and he loves it because he doesn't have to be himself, he can hide under another persona. He's been crushing on Hugo for a few years now, because Hugo has always been kind to him and stood out to him. He accidentally anonymously texts Hugo around the same time he starts hanging out with Hugo more outside of work. And he starts building a close friendship with Hugo under two personas. The relationship that he has with Hugo when he's himself and not texting, is a very warm one, with a lot of talking and snuggling because Hugo is a bit touch starved. It comes out before the 50% mark that Torin is the anonymous texter, and pretty quickly after that they get together as a couple, but the rest of the book has conflict focused on Hugo discovering his sexuality and a third act car accident that causes temporary amnesia.
This was an okay book. I liked the first 50% better than the last. I think I was able to excuse certain things during that first half that I couldn't excuse later on.
What I liked:
- I liked Torin as a character, more so in the first 50% because I felt like he was more himself then. You could see his personality and his vulnerabilities in every moment. I like a shy antisocial character, I find I can empathize with them and feel protective of them.
- I loved all the moments we saw Torin in costume as the mascot. He really came out of his shell when he was in the mascot uniform, he was so entertaining and comical to the fans. It was nice comic relief to see him just being silly and effusive.
- I appreciated the queer community that was in this author's world. It was so judgment free and accepting. And I liked that there was representation for a lot of different sexualities and experiences.
- I enjoyed the platonic snuggling connection between Hugo and Torin
- I liked how accepting Hugo was of being attracted to a man
What I didn't like:
- There were some weird moments early on where the author I think exaggerated a couple things to make a point and then said something that completely countered / negated the truth of that.
Example 1 - page 16. Seems kind of weird that Hugo just a couple pages ago was talking about how he has no memory for people, that he doesn't notice his surroundings. Yet he reached out socially to Torin? Seems a little out of character for someone he didn't have a relationship with.
Example 2 - page 41. It's ironic and kind of antithetical that part of the reason why Torin liked Hugo was that Hugo made him feel seen, he was the only one who paid him any attention. Now it turns out Torin is the one who hasn't been paying attention, the others have been noticing Torin and smiling and waving at him, and Torin just didn't notice himself. So he is the one who's been not paying attention.
Example 3 - page 41. Torin says that he and Hugo rarely exchange more than a few words and Hugo is someone who he barely knows. Yet at this point they've been spending hours and hours texting, while it's true that Hugo doesn't know it's Torin, Torin definitely knows that it's Hugo and he actually does know Hugo pretty darn well and know that they exchange a hell of a lot of words. So from his perspective, he shouldn't be saying that he doesn't know hugo. Hugo doesn't know Torin well, it would make more sense if it was Hugo that was expressing that they don't know each other.
- I don't think the anonymous texting made sense. The author missed an opportunity to make it make sense. And it frustrated me because my logical linear brain just rejected how it occurred. Why doesn't Hugo ask who is messaging him? She or he just randomly started messaging him saying hi and he just went with it? Didn't ask any questions, didn't ask who it was, assumed it was a woman and started sharing a lot with this person. This doesn't make sense for Hugo because Hugo is the most curious person ever who asks a billion questions, yet he didn't ask the most basic ones like who the f*** are you?! And for quite a while, the author left the reader wondering whether Torin thought that Hugo knew who he was texting. There were no bread crumbs left as to whether Torin knew.
- For a while there, I thought the tropes were incorrectly tagged. The tropes mentioned there was a virgin MMC, but it didn't appear to be either of them. I was surprised when Hugo revealed he considered himself a virgin, because he had never had penetrative sex. I feel like the author should have left bread crumbs for the reader so that we weren't thinking the author made a whoopsie.
- About the virginity thing, I know people can identify with their experiences differently. But Hugo's view of virginity kind of bothered me. Because there's a lot of people that just don't have penetrative sex and that doesn't make them virgins. So making Hugo identify as a virgin when he took a different woman home almost everyday for years, just doesn't sit right. I know he said later on that in about half of those encounters he just got the woman off, but in the other half he was getting oral and other kinds of sex. He was a man w****. It kind of felt insulting to virgins and insulting to the women he had been with in his situation?
- At 34%, Hugo sleeps naked and on top of Torin. This is kind of crazy that he knows Torin is a gay man and it doesn't even occur to him that he's messing with Torin's libido?
- Personal preference thing. I don't like the deception, of Torin contacting Hugo and having two separate relationships with him, the virtual one and the in-person one deliberately. I prefer this trope when they're communicating online and neither one of them knows who the other is until it comes out by surprise. When it's deliberately deceptive from the start it just doesn't sit as well with me.
- It's a bit excessive how much Hugo talks / thinks about his huge dick. I don't think it needed to be as huge of a plot point as it was.
- I feel like the book was a bit disjointed. The book was going at a particular pace, with a particular dynamic between the characters, and then it's like we took an intermission from that story to have a really academic education on types of sexuality as Hugo was coming to realizations about his identity. Their interactions just seemed out of character personality wise. I think the author had trouble navigating conveying facts while still conveying personality. We went from seeing their attraction/platonic affection in the ways that they thought about each other, the platonic touches they shared, the involuntary blushes and reactions and eye contact... to there being a couple chapters worth of a cold vacuum that was all facts and it took a while for the equilibrium to return.
- I don't think that amnesia was the right fit for this book. It wasn't what the story needed when it occurred at the 85% mark. I feel like it came at a time when they really were building their relationship and it set them back. When you take a slow burn book, have an intermission of very factual education journey for multiple chapters about types of sexuality, have the characters have sex for the first time at 82% and start really developing their physical relationship and relationship as a romantic couple then, and then you give the one character amnesia at 86%, give him his memory back at 91%, and then have the story end at 94% (with just author promoting other books for the rest of the pages), you lose pages at a really key time that could have been spent letting us see the characters develop as a romantic relationship. Yeah it's sad and it hits you in the feels that Torin doesn't remember Hugo and Hugo is worried, but it doesn't serve a greater purpose to their relationship and it makes the story end very abruptly.
Some notable moments:
"To prove my point, I take my most prized printing that I’m incredibly proud of making successfully off the shelf—an exact replica of my hard dick. I hand it to Torin with a huge grin. His eyes go wide. His cheeks heat so much that the red runs into his hairline and down his neck. “Is that…?” His eyes flicker to my pants and then back to the cock. “Yes!” I exclaim. “It’s exactly like the real thing! Like this vein is perfect and everything.” I trace my finger along the vein. Torin looks slightly mortified"
"Hugo sighs. His arm wraps around my middle and he hugs me in return. “I think you’re the best thing that’s happened to me, Torin.” I sniff. “Since hockey?” He shakes his head. “No. Hockey is only a temporary thing. I will grow out of it eventually. Or I suppose more accurately, it will leave me behind. You are different. We can grow together. I want to keep you forever.”"
*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: 2/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: size kink, snuggling
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: social anxiety, panic attacks, concussions, brief amnesia, demisexual and Demi romantic rep, somewhat distant relationship with family, pining, Hugo comes off as neurodiverse
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: they've known each other for a couple years and Torin has been pining over Hugo. Hugo goes home with random women almost everyday for a long while and Torin is hurt in his feels over it. There is hookups with other women off page during the first 20 to 30%, it's before anything happens between Hugo and Torin. For the first 46%, Hugo thinks he is talking to a woman online and pursuing a romantic relationship with her while at the same time he is cuddling and kind of sexually touching Torin, but both people are actually Torin. It's a weird gray zone where if they weren't the same person it's almost like Hugo is leading one of them on / cheating?
3 stars
Hugo is 28 and he is a decently successful NHL player. He doesn't think the way that other people think. He always has questions and he wants to understand things, and it turns out it's largely because he doesn't feel things the same way as other people. He's very blunt with his questions and he unintentionally offends a lot of people with his questions, but he means no offense, he just struggles with understanding emotions and nuances of communication. He comes off as neurodiverse. He's on a journey where he comes to a realization that he is demisexual and Demi romantic at least those are the best labels that seem to resonate with him. All of his close friends have coupled up and he feels like a third wheel anytime he hangs out with them. So he started spending more time with the team's mascot, Torin, and he's been chatting over text with someone he thinks is a random woman.
Torin is 24, gay, and he is very shy and suffers social anxiety. He works as the team mascot and he loves it because he doesn't have to be himself, he can hide under another persona. He's been crushing on Hugo for a few years now, because Hugo has always been kind to him and stood out to him. He accidentally anonymously texts Hugo around the same time he starts hanging out with Hugo more outside of work. And he starts building a close friendship with Hugo under two personas. The relationship that he has with Hugo when he's himself and not texting, is a very warm one, with a lot of talking and snuggling because Hugo is a bit touch starved. It comes out before the 50% mark that Torin is the anonymous texter, and pretty quickly after that they get together as a couple, but the rest of the book has conflict focused on Hugo discovering his sexuality and a third act car accident that causes temporary amnesia.
This was an okay book. I liked the first 50% better than the last. I think I was able to excuse certain things during that first half that I couldn't excuse later on.
What I liked:
- I liked Torin as a character, more so in the first 50% because I felt like he was more himself then. You could see his personality and his vulnerabilities in every moment. I like a shy antisocial character, I find I can empathize with them and feel protective of them.
- I loved all the moments we saw Torin in costume as the mascot. He really came out of his shell when he was in the mascot uniform, he was so entertaining and comical to the fans. It was nice comic relief to see him just being silly and effusive.
- I appreciated the queer community that was in this author's world. It was so judgment free and accepting. And I liked that there was representation for a lot of different sexualities and experiences.
- I enjoyed the platonic snuggling connection between Hugo and Torin
- I liked how accepting Hugo was of being attracted to a man
What I didn't like:
- There were some weird moments early on where the author I think exaggerated a couple things to make a point and then said something that completely countered / negated the truth of that.
Example 1 - page 16. Seems kind of weird that Hugo just a couple pages ago was talking about how he has no memory for people, that he doesn't notice his surroundings. Yet he reached out socially to Torin? Seems a little out of character for someone he didn't have a relationship with.
Example 2 - page 41. It's ironic and kind of antithetical that part of the reason why Torin liked Hugo was that Hugo made him feel seen, he was the only one who paid him any attention. Now it turns out Torin is the one who hasn't been paying attention, the others have been noticing Torin and smiling and waving at him, and Torin just didn't notice himself. So he is the one who's been not paying attention.
Example 3 - page 41. Torin says that he and Hugo rarely exchange more than a few words and Hugo is someone who he barely knows. Yet at this point they've been spending hours and hours texting, while it's true that Hugo doesn't know it's Torin, Torin definitely knows that it's Hugo and he actually does know Hugo pretty darn well and know that they exchange a hell of a lot of words. So from his perspective, he shouldn't be saying that he doesn't know hugo. Hugo doesn't know Torin well, it would make more sense if it was Hugo that was expressing that they don't know each other.
- I don't think the anonymous texting made sense. The author missed an opportunity to make it make sense. And it frustrated me because my logical linear brain just rejected how it occurred. Why doesn't Hugo ask who is messaging him? She or he just randomly started messaging him saying hi and he just went with it? Didn't ask any questions, didn't ask who it was, assumed it was a woman and started sharing a lot with this person. This doesn't make sense for Hugo because Hugo is the most curious person ever who asks a billion questions, yet he didn't ask the most basic ones like who the f*** are you?! And for quite a while, the author left the reader wondering whether Torin thought that Hugo knew who he was texting. There were no bread crumbs left as to whether Torin knew.
- For a while there, I thought the tropes were incorrectly tagged. The tropes mentioned there was a virgin MMC, but it didn't appear to be either of them. I was surprised when Hugo revealed he considered himself a virgin, because he had never had penetrative sex. I feel like the author should have left bread crumbs for the reader so that we weren't thinking the author made a whoopsie.
- About the virginity thing, I know people can identify with their experiences differently. But Hugo's view of virginity kind of bothered me. Because there's a lot of people that just don't have penetrative sex and that doesn't make them virgins. So making Hugo identify as a virgin when he took a different woman home almost everyday for years, just doesn't sit right. I know he said later on that in about half of those encounters he just got the woman off, but in the other half he was getting oral and other kinds of sex. He was a man w****. It kind of felt insulting to virgins and insulting to the women he had been with in his situation?
- At 34%, Hugo sleeps naked and on top of Torin. This is kind of crazy that he knows Torin is a gay man and it doesn't even occur to him that he's messing with Torin's libido?
- Personal preference thing. I don't like the deception, of Torin contacting Hugo and having two separate relationships with him, the virtual one and the in-person one deliberately. I prefer this trope when they're communicating online and neither one of them knows who the other is until it comes out by surprise. When it's deliberately deceptive from the start it just doesn't sit as well with me.
- It's a bit excessive how much Hugo talks / thinks about his huge dick. I don't think it needed to be as huge of a plot point as it was.
- I feel like the book was a bit disjointed. The book was going at a particular pace, with a particular dynamic between the characters, and then it's like we took an intermission from that story to have a really academic education on types of sexuality as Hugo was coming to realizations about his identity. Their interactions just seemed out of character personality wise. I think the author had trouble navigating conveying facts while still conveying personality. We went from seeing their attraction/platonic affection in the ways that they thought about each other, the platonic touches they shared, the involuntary blushes and reactions and eye contact... to there being a couple chapters worth of a cold vacuum that was all facts and it took a while for the equilibrium to return.
- I don't think that amnesia was the right fit for this book. It wasn't what the story needed when it occurred at the 85% mark. I feel like it came at a time when they really were building their relationship and it set them back. When you take a slow burn book, have an intermission of very factual education journey for multiple chapters about types of sexuality, have the characters have sex for the first time at 82% and start really developing their physical relationship and relationship as a romantic couple then, and then you give the one character amnesia at 86%, give him his memory back at 91%, and then have the story end at 94% (with just author promoting other books for the rest of the pages), you lose pages at a really key time that could have been spent letting us see the characters develop as a romantic relationship. Yeah it's sad and it hits you in the feels that Torin doesn't remember Hugo and Hugo is worried, but it doesn't serve a greater purpose to their relationship and it makes the story end very abruptly.
Some notable moments:
"To prove my point, I take my most prized printing that I’m incredibly proud of making successfully off the shelf—an exact replica of my hard dick. I hand it to Torin with a huge grin. His eyes go wide. His cheeks heat so much that the red runs into his hairline and down his neck. “Is that…?” His eyes flicker to my pants and then back to the cock. “Yes!” I exclaim. “It’s exactly like the real thing! Like this vein is perfect and everything.” I trace my finger along the vein. Torin looks slightly mortified"
"Hugo sighs. His arm wraps around my middle and he hugs me in return. “I think you’re the best thing that’s happened to me, Torin.” I sniff. “Since hockey?” He shakes his head. “No. Hockey is only a temporary thing. I will grow out of it eventually. Or I suppose more accurately, it will leave me behind. You are different. We can grow together. I want to keep you forever.”"
*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 16, 2025
Hugo is the most romantic character in the Creaverse, I swear!! I adored the dates he took Torin on, the amount of thought that got put into them, the way he always noticed what Torin needed especially relating to his anxiety...🥰
There was a lot of focus on the relationship between Hugo and Torin, and not really as much on the wider friend group which I actually missed. I wanted to see how hugo introduced Torin as his boyfriend! Hugo meeting Torin's family was also skipped over but it is a bonus scene which I really enjoyed and now I want Sully's story too!
There's also a lot of discussion around the asexual and aromantic spectrums as Hugo tries to figure out where he fits on both. It did start to feel a little bit like an information guide though which was kind of distracting, but I liked how Hugo really thought about things and asked a lot of questions.
I wasn't sold on the temporary amnesia in the last couple of chapters though. I think if it had happened earlier in the book then it would have been better, but it's literally crammed into two chapters and the epilogue so it felt like an afterthought for added emotional drama because the rest of their story was really smooth sailing.
There was a lot of focus on the relationship between Hugo and Torin, and not really as much on the wider friend group which I actually missed. I wanted to see how hugo introduced Torin as his boyfriend! Hugo meeting Torin's family was also skipped over but it is a bonus scene which I really enjoyed and now I want Sully's story too!
There's also a lot of discussion around the asexual and aromantic spectrums as Hugo tries to figure out where he fits on both. It did start to feel a little bit like an information guide though which was kind of distracting, but I liked how Hugo really thought about things and asked a lot of questions.
I wasn't sold on the temporary amnesia in the last couple of chapters though. I think if it had happened earlier in the book then it would have been better, but it's literally crammed into two chapters and the epilogue so it felt like an afterthought for added emotional drama because the rest of their story was really smooth sailing.
December 18, 2024
book 10 of the series
hockey/nhl
shy/anxious mc
virgin playboy mc
extra big um tool
mascot/player
pining/crush
lots of previous characters
slow burn but romantic
barely strangers to friends to more
hockey/nhl
shy/anxious mc
virgin playboy mc
extra big um tool
mascot/player
pining/crush
lots of previous characters
slow burn but romantic
barely strangers to friends to more
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2025
ARC REVIEW
This is an absolute favourite of mine. I really thought I was done adding to the list of my favourite books this year but I was wrong.
This book made me so warm and feeling fuzzy. I was rolling around giggling, squealing and kicking my feet with how cute and swoon-worthy Torin and Hugo were. Everything about these two was beautiful, sweet and absolutely adorable. I never knew I would be a huge fan of friends cuddling and snuggling but Hugo literally made me fall in love with every single moment of this book.
Hugo was beyond charming. The fact that everyone has a misconception about him and he’s just this big soft adorable giant and only Torin got to see that special side of him. The romance in this was top tier. The dates, the thoughts Hugo put into setting up those dates. 🥹 He had me swooning with every action. There was just something extremely precious about the way he loves Torin, the way he treats Torin like a gem.
And Torin just being the absolute, the best person in Hugo’s life, never judging him, always paying attention and doing his best to understand Hugo.
I would’ve been 💯 okay if there was not a single spicy scene in this book. That was just how good it was. It was the sweetest of slow burn and I loved every bit of it. Absolutely loved how the Ace-spec rec was executed well.
This is an absolute favourite of mine. I really thought I was done adding to the list of my favourite books this year but I was wrong.
This book made me so warm and feeling fuzzy. I was rolling around giggling, squealing and kicking my feet with how cute and swoon-worthy Torin and Hugo were. Everything about these two was beautiful, sweet and absolutely adorable. I never knew I would be a huge fan of friends cuddling and snuggling but Hugo literally made me fall in love with every single moment of this book.
Hugo was beyond charming. The fact that everyone has a misconception about him and he’s just this big soft adorable giant and only Torin got to see that special side of him. The romance in this was top tier. The dates, the thoughts Hugo put into setting up those dates. 🥹 He had me swooning with every action. There was just something extremely precious about the way he loves Torin, the way he treats Torin like a gem.
And Torin just being the absolute, the best person in Hugo’s life, never judging him, always paying attention and doing his best to understand Hugo.
I would’ve been 💯 okay if there was not a single spicy scene in this book. That was just how good it was. It was the sweetest of slow burn and I loved every bit of it. Absolutely loved how the Ace-spec rec was executed well.
Want to read
December 15, 2024So I've been interesting to read this series for a long time. The blurb pulled me in, so I ended up checking some of the chapters in this one! I had fun with this!
I liked that he was a bit oblivious but not too much haha. I wonder if the coach will get a book!
I liked that he was a bit oblivious but not too much haha. I wonder if the coach will get a book!
April 18, 2025
It was everything I wanted to read for a long time, and I just binged on it. I wasn't expecting much, but it still served its purpose.
Such a cute read. Torin and Hugo have my heart.
Such a cute read. Torin and Hugo have my heart.
January 15, 2026
meh
how many times can someone say that his dick is too big to fit underwear 😅
how many times can someone say that his dick is too big to fit underwear 😅
January 3, 2026
Awww, this book was absolutely adorable. There is nothing cuter in romance than when two characters do all this super coupley stuff without even realizing it, and then suddenly the penny drops and they realize the things they do aren’t normal for “just friends.” That’s exactly what happened here, and I loved every second.
Hugo being so aware of Torin’s anxiety melted my heart. Without even thinking about it, he makes sure that every situation Torin is in is comfortable and safe for him. And Torin… I adore how he slowly starts to see just how much everyone appreciates him and seeks him out, almost like he’s their little good luck charm.
Hugo being so aware of Torin’s anxiety melted my heart. Without even thinking about it, he makes sure that every situation Torin is in is comfortable and safe for him. And Torin… I adore how he slowly starts to see just how much everyone appreciates him and seeks him out, almost like he’s their little good luck charm.
December 19, 2024
This is the 10th book in the For Pucks sake and this was really sweet. In this story we meet mascot Torin and hockey player Hugo. Torin suffers from anxiety and struggles socially. He had a crush on Hugo for a couple of years but never had the courage to talk to him, however Hugo always says hi to him. Single Hugo feels more lonely after all his friends have coupled up. He is known to hook up with a lot of girls but he never does much with them and is actually a virgin. He starts hanging out with Torin a lot and they become close. At the same time Torin sends an anonymous text to Hugo and they start chatting a lot but Hugo assumes Torin is a girl. Hugo loves hanging out with Torin and he starts questioning his sexuality and his feelings for Torin. When Hugo finds out his anonymous texter is Torin he is relieved and they explore their new relationship. I really enjoyed reading this.
December 15, 2024
4.6 stars
December 20, 2024
4,25⭐️
December 12, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. It’s my second favourite in this series.
Yes it’s a slow burn (but I’m so glad it was) is there plenty of hockey? (yes there is) do we catch up with regulars from the series? Absolutely.
Torin although part of this series, hasn’t really been seen in previous books. He’s the clubs mascot. Hidden behind a mask is just how Torin likes it. Suffering from crippling anxiety meant Torin can’t really get a job that he’s seen! So hiding gives him a wage and a sense of purpose.
Torin also has a HUGE crush on Hugo. It started also as soon as Torin spots Hugo, and when he says hi, or waves to him, it just makes his crush grow.
But Hugo is straight, and Torin wouldn’t ever put himself in a position to say hi.
Hugo is a defender, it’s his job to keep the puck away before it gets to the goal. He’s a big guy, and has been told often he’s just a “jock”, he’s been told to think before he speaks as he often offends! He loves his team mates, and he loves what he does…..
But….. Hugo is lonely! He’s watching his friends pair off and find their happy ever afters. And the puck bunnies don’t really hold any interest for him anymore. (In fact, there is a part in here that makes me 😱 and then 😢)
Torin starts the ball rolling by accidentally texting Hugo! (I’m not going to give that part away, as I did chuckle at that incident.) Hugo responds, and they start a conversation…..
Meanwhile Hugo has started coming over and saying hi to Torin, and a friendship begins…..
Hugo is socially awkward, he just says whatever he thinks or feels. (Not really the done thing, but I found it endearing) he likes the friendship that is growing between Torin and him, but he’s also looking forward to the texts he receives from his new friend. And as his feelings for both of the people, start to grow, he has to make a choice….
So what happens when Hugo goes on a date with his text “girl” and meets the man who has slowly taken over Hugo’s every waking moment?
OMG!! There is apart in here, that absolutely broke me 😢 I kept fingers, toes and everything in between crossed 🤐
The storyline is absorbing, the characters had my attention from the first word, until the last one. I just wanted this story to go on and on and on.
I like the words we get from the author in the beginning of her book, and at the end. Usually very thought provoking.
🦋
Yes it’s a slow burn (but I’m so glad it was) is there plenty of hockey? (yes there is) do we catch up with regulars from the series? Absolutely.
Torin although part of this series, hasn’t really been seen in previous books. He’s the clubs mascot. Hidden behind a mask is just how Torin likes it. Suffering from crippling anxiety meant Torin can’t really get a job that he’s seen! So hiding gives him a wage and a sense of purpose.
Torin also has a HUGE crush on Hugo. It started also as soon as Torin spots Hugo, and when he says hi, or waves to him, it just makes his crush grow.
But Hugo is straight, and Torin wouldn’t ever put himself in a position to say hi.
Hugo is a defender, it’s his job to keep the puck away before it gets to the goal. He’s a big guy, and has been told often he’s just a “jock”, he’s been told to think before he speaks as he often offends! He loves his team mates, and he loves what he does…..
But….. Hugo is lonely! He’s watching his friends pair off and find their happy ever afters. And the puck bunnies don’t really hold any interest for him anymore. (In fact, there is a part in here that makes me 😱 and then 😢)
Torin starts the ball rolling by accidentally texting Hugo! (I’m not going to give that part away, as I did chuckle at that incident.) Hugo responds, and they start a conversation…..
Meanwhile Hugo has started coming over and saying hi to Torin, and a friendship begins…..
Hugo is socially awkward, he just says whatever he thinks or feels. (Not really the done thing, but I found it endearing) he likes the friendship that is growing between Torin and him, but he’s also looking forward to the texts he receives from his new friend. And as his feelings for both of the people, start to grow, he has to make a choice….
So what happens when Hugo goes on a date with his text “girl” and meets the man who has slowly taken over Hugo’s every waking moment?
OMG!! There is apart in here, that absolutely broke me 😢 I kept fingers, toes and everything in between crossed 🤐
The storyline is absorbing, the characters had my attention from the first word, until the last one. I just wanted this story to go on and on and on.
I like the words we get from the author in the beginning of her book, and at the end. Usually very thought provoking.
🦋
December 16, 2024
So happy to have received an ARC for this one!!! Hugo and Torin have now a special place in my heart🥹 They were just perfect, there isn’t a thing I would ever change about these men. The author has placed a “warning” on a page how it’s a slow burn and low spice BUT, I genuinely think that both the pace and spice were absolutely perfect. There was absolutely no need for more spice or the pace to be different, the spice was perfect and HOT and the pace felt so natural and because of how much I loved them both I actually didn’t want the book to end, I wanted it to slow down! I already miss reading about these two so much❣️ A well deserved 5⭐️ from me💗
The plot itself was very easy to follow as the book focused more on them falling in love, obviously there was plot and a plot point which made me tear up for both of them🥹 And I absolutely loved the mental health representation in this book, the way that Torin describes his anxiety is extremely accurate, to me anyway. I’ve not read a book where anxiety is described in such depth and accuracy, especially reading about Torin describing how he overcomes his social anxiety, because he mentions that you have to learn to live with it, there is no cure for it. And if you have never suffered from it the you just simply will not understand it, and I’m glad that’s been said, it was refreshing to see a character not just magically overcome their struggles just because they found a significant other, it’s portrayed very realistically and it made me love the book even more.
I swear I aways get educated in every book from Crea about the different sexualities that exist that I had no idea about and I think that’s such an important subject to include, I was literally sat there getting a full on lesson and in no way did it bore me or made me want to skip those chapters because they were not only relevant but also I do believe it’s important to have at least a surface level knowledge of other sexualities that are out there and this author always manages to include that in the books💕
Gosh I absolutely LOVED Hugo, Whilst reading the other books I was so intrigued about whether there would be a book about him and what that would even look like🤣 I just remember him blurting everything out and not remembering his date’s name so I was quite surprised to see how affectionate he actually was, he was just absolutely adorable! Well hot too obviously 🙄 What dis shock me is learning the truth about him being the one who’s not as experienced as expected 👀 What I probably loved the most though is the way he cared about Torin’s comfort, how he knew about Torin’s anxiety and tried his best to adjust their surroundings to fit Torin’s needs, he definitely had an eye for details!!
I mean just look at what Torin says while he’s on a date with Hugo:
“The food I must have expressed liking the least, he took away and pushed something else in front of me. When I adjusted a couple times on the ground, Hugo brought one of the pillows over for me to sit on. His concern isn’t about needing reassurance at all. His concern is all for me. Wanting me to feel good and comfortable and enjoy everything about right now.” - COME OOON you just have to love the man!
There’s just so many quotes I could share that show how incredible Hugo is, how he shows his love, I mean yes at first there were no feelings involved but the SIGNS! The signs were literally red and bold that they were more than just friends I mean this is what Hugo says when they’re having their “friendly” cuddles:
“Ever notice how perfectly you fit like this?” - Like???? That is not JUST you friend hun 😭
Hugo was also just simply hilarious, i mean probably not intentionally most of the time but sometimes his innocence shone through and it was just so cute and funny, like when he didn’t understand things and decided to question them straight up🤣 like when discussing how his friend is asexual and aromantic but is moving in with a woman:
“I don’t feel a romantic attraction to anyone.”
“Including Dana.”
He smiles. “Yes.”
“Then I’m confused about why you’re letting her move in. Is she homeless?” 😭😭🤣🤣 This really did make me chuckle
And Torin was just such a sweetheart 🥹 Don’t get me wrong tho he absolutely did have hot moments too where I was just like omg where did the innocent and shy man go😳 We do love a man who can do both tho ;) I admire his character so much because of what he has gone through and continues to struggle with, his social anxiety being the main cause of his struggles that’s explained in the book, there were other things too but throughout the book it’s shown to be what he struggles with the most.
And although he does struggle with it, it didn’t stop him from enjoying life, I mean yes it made it more difficult to do so but a lot of the times he tries his best to love with it and simply just try to enjoy life alongside Hugo. I absolutely loved seeing him realise how much he is loved and wanted, like when he acknowledges the fact that the team do actually notice him and actively look for him when hesitating absent, my god that literally made me tear up because that man deserves to be seen 🥺
“I’m overcome to learn they look for me. Even if my presence is a superstition of theirs, they notice when I’m not here. For the first time ever, my breath feels heavy because maybe I matter to someone.” - Literal tears
A quote that I will always laugh at from Torin though is when he says: “Don’t tell me you have eight inches and then show me five. Fuck that.” Like okay queen!
I also couldn’t stop smiling at when Hugo would ask Torin if he is okay like 156 times and Torin would just humour him and reassure him he in fact is still okay, like he knew Hugo needed just as much reassurance if not more that Torin is okay🤣
There’s just so much I can say about these characters like I could write pages worth of my favourite quotes and moments, if you are looking for a quicker read full of sweet, hot, AND funny moments, all included in an MM hockey romance then you absolutely need to read this one because I’m sure you’ll love it! I’ve never been disappointed by a book from this author and probably never will be💕
The plot itself was very easy to follow as the book focused more on them falling in love, obviously there was plot and a plot point which made me tear up for both of them🥹 And I absolutely loved the mental health representation in this book, the way that Torin describes his anxiety is extremely accurate, to me anyway. I’ve not read a book where anxiety is described in such depth and accuracy, especially reading about Torin describing how he overcomes his social anxiety, because he mentions that you have to learn to live with it, there is no cure for it. And if you have never suffered from it the you just simply will not understand it, and I’m glad that’s been said, it was refreshing to see a character not just magically overcome their struggles just because they found a significant other, it’s portrayed very realistically and it made me love the book even more.
I swear I aways get educated in every book from Crea about the different sexualities that exist that I had no idea about and I think that’s such an important subject to include, I was literally sat there getting a full on lesson and in no way did it bore me or made me want to skip those chapters because they were not only relevant but also I do believe it’s important to have at least a surface level knowledge of other sexualities that are out there and this author always manages to include that in the books💕
Gosh I absolutely LOVED Hugo, Whilst reading the other books I was so intrigued about whether there would be a book about him and what that would even look like🤣 I just remember him blurting everything out and not remembering his date’s name so I was quite surprised to see how affectionate he actually was, he was just absolutely adorable! Well hot too obviously 🙄 What dis shock me is learning the truth about him being the one who’s not as experienced as expected 👀 What I probably loved the most though is the way he cared about Torin’s comfort, how he knew about Torin’s anxiety and tried his best to adjust their surroundings to fit Torin’s needs, he definitely had an eye for details!!
I mean just look at what Torin says while he’s on a date with Hugo:
“The food I must have expressed liking the least, he took away and pushed something else in front of me. When I adjusted a couple times on the ground, Hugo brought one of the pillows over for me to sit on. His concern isn’t about needing reassurance at all. His concern is all for me. Wanting me to feel good and comfortable and enjoy everything about right now.” - COME OOON you just have to love the man!
There’s just so many quotes I could share that show how incredible Hugo is, how he shows his love, I mean yes at first there were no feelings involved but the SIGNS! The signs were literally red and bold that they were more than just friends I mean this is what Hugo says when they’re having their “friendly” cuddles:
“Ever notice how perfectly you fit like this?” - Like???? That is not JUST you friend hun 😭
Hugo was also just simply hilarious, i mean probably not intentionally most of the time but sometimes his innocence shone through and it was just so cute and funny, like when he didn’t understand things and decided to question them straight up🤣 like when discussing how his friend is asexual and aromantic but is moving in with a woman:
“I don’t feel a romantic attraction to anyone.”
“Including Dana.”
He smiles. “Yes.”
“Then I’m confused about why you’re letting her move in. Is she homeless?” 😭😭🤣🤣 This really did make me chuckle
And Torin was just such a sweetheart 🥹 Don’t get me wrong tho he absolutely did have hot moments too where I was just like omg where did the innocent and shy man go😳 We do love a man who can do both tho ;) I admire his character so much because of what he has gone through and continues to struggle with, his social anxiety being the main cause of his struggles that’s explained in the book, there were other things too but throughout the book it’s shown to be what he struggles with the most.
And although he does struggle with it, it didn’t stop him from enjoying life, I mean yes it made it more difficult to do so but a lot of the times he tries his best to love with it and simply just try to enjoy life alongside Hugo. I absolutely loved seeing him realise how much he is loved and wanted, like when he acknowledges the fact that the team do actually notice him and actively look for him when hesitating absent, my god that literally made me tear up because that man deserves to be seen 🥺
“I’m overcome to learn they look for me. Even if my presence is a superstition of theirs, they notice when I’m not here. For the first time ever, my breath feels heavy because maybe I matter to someone.” - Literal tears
A quote that I will always laugh at from Torin though is when he says: “Don’t tell me you have eight inches and then show me five. Fuck that.” Like okay queen!
I also couldn’t stop smiling at when Hugo would ask Torin if he is okay like 156 times and Torin would just humour him and reassure him he in fact is still okay, like he knew Hugo needed just as much reassurance if not more that Torin is okay🤣
There’s just so much I can say about these characters like I could write pages worth of my favourite quotes and moments, if you are looking for a quicker read full of sweet, hot, AND funny moments, all included in an MM hockey romance then you absolutely need to read this one because I’m sure you’ll love it! I’ve never been disappointed by a book from this author and probably never will be💕
December 14, 2024
weirdly written
Extremely repetitive. How many times do I need to hear about the size of his parts. How many times do I need to hear about the fact that they are close in height. Repetitive at the beginning, ok in the middle and subject changes and abruptly ends. Make the story flow better.
Extremely repetitive. How many times do I need to hear about the size of his parts. How many times do I need to hear about the fact that they are close in height. Repetitive at the beginning, ok in the middle and subject changes and abruptly ends. Make the story flow better.
May 7, 2025
This was not good/well written. The characters were cute/endearing though, so I didn’t hate it. Loved all the cuddling and the Demi rep. The comically large dick being basically a character was totally unnecessary for a book with relatively few sex scenes. But I still had fun. 2.5 stars rounded up.
December 15, 2024
Reads like a Wikipedia article
While this series is fantastic, the last few books have read more like a Wikipedia article for nontraditional sexual attraction than they have like an actual book full of people experiencing those things.
While this series is fantastic, the last few books have read more like a Wikipedia article for nontraditional sexual attraction than they have like an actual book full of people experiencing those things.
March 29, 2025
This is the problem with 5 star rating, I am giving this there stars but it wasn't as good as the previous book. I am not actually used to thinking in terms of 1-10 rating, but let's just say the last one was around 7 and this would be maybe 5? 5,5?
There wasn't anything I would call bad (writing) but Reitan books can really click with my tastes so when that doesn't happen, it's just an ordinary book - I may read it but it's nothing to write home about and I do mind a few things the book does. Again, it's mostly details but when I don't have those delicious things to distract me, I cannot ignore them so easily.
To touch upon my bingo-card tropes/elements reference, this is the 10th book and things are getting... preachy. I don't know how else to say it and it feels a little unfair of me. In previous books, we had characters living their lives and their truths. The more "unique" representation /sexuality that is now on the menu (after exhausting the other options) the more monologue-y it gets, obviously. Like Adak got preachy but ok, it's her personal battle, it was bound to get extra emotional. But I felt like I was being judged and explained (in kinda judgmental way) about... I can't even remember what the term was about sexuality that is caused by trauma from past. Like, is this a Wikipedia page?? Look, I am stoked you want to enlighten people and I am sure if some ignorant but open-minded person picked up this series, they would get a crash course in a lot of things regarding gender and sexuality. The odds of a person like that picking up this book? Slim to none. Instead, there's me, I have some knowledge, I may count myself among the many letters, somewhere... I don't like being preached to. I couldn't even identify with the person explaining things, like, being indignant with them. So that was a miss for me.
The first thing you see in these books? Foreword. I have seen good introductions in books, this one? *sigh* This one is not to my taste. It's long, it's covering-my-ass speech (even though she made Animal Crossing into... whatever, just like Facebook is that other thing) and it's telling you not to read her books if you are triggered or dislike These Tropes. That feels like a little too late for me and I have seen this EVERY. BOOK. It's reminding you this is a work of fiction. My favourite phrase. Not. I just don't like anything about what happens in that monologue at the front.
Anyway, let me end my own monologue by saying I am watching the author but this book did not find its mark in me.
There wasn't anything I would call bad (writing) but Reitan books can really click with my tastes so when that doesn't happen, it's just an ordinary book - I may read it but it's nothing to write home about and I do mind a few things the book does. Again, it's mostly details but when I don't have those delicious things to distract me, I cannot ignore them so easily.
To touch upon my bingo-card tropes/elements reference, this is the 10th book and things are getting... preachy. I don't know how else to say it and it feels a little unfair of me. In previous books, we had characters living their lives and their truths. The more "unique" representation /sexuality that is now on the menu (after exhausting the other options) the more monologue-y it gets, obviously. Like Adak got preachy but ok, it's her personal battle, it was bound to get extra emotional. But I felt like I was being judged and explained (in kinda judgmental way) about... I can't even remember what the term was about sexuality that is caused by trauma from past. Like, is this a Wikipedia page?? Look, I am stoked you want to enlighten people and I am sure if some ignorant but open-minded person picked up this series, they would get a crash course in a lot of things regarding gender and sexuality. The odds of a person like that picking up this book? Slim to none. Instead, there's me, I have some knowledge, I may count myself among the many letters, somewhere... I don't like being preached to. I couldn't even identify with the person explaining things, like, being indignant with them. So that was a miss for me.
The first thing you see in these books? Foreword. I have seen good introductions in books, this one? *sigh* This one is not to my taste. It's long, it's covering-my-ass speech (even though she made Animal Crossing into... whatever, just like Facebook is that other thing) and it's telling you not to read her books if you are triggered or dislike These Tropes. That feels like a little too late for me and I have seen this EVERY. BOOK. It's reminding you this is a work of fiction. My favourite phrase. Not. I just don't like anything about what happens in that monologue at the front.
Anyway, let me end my own monologue by saying I am watching the author but this book did not find its mark in me.
April 5, 2025
Hugo Bladen und Torin Jonah könnten nicht unterschiedlicher sein. Während Hugo beliebt und offenherzig ist, kämpft Torin mit seiner Schüchternheit und Angstzuständen. Nur wenn Torin in sein Kostüm schlüpft und zu Surry the Seal wird, kann er sich entspannen und "normal" sein. Schon zwei Jahre ist er nun Surry und genauso lange fühlt er sich zu Hugo hingezogen. Doch im Gegensatz zu Torin ist Hugo nicht schwul und es mangelt ihm auch nicht an willigen Begleiterinnen.
Zumindest ist es das, was Hugo der Welt zeigt. Im Team und bei den Fans ist er beliebt. Er ist nicht abgehoben und zu allen freundlich. So hat er auch immer ein nettes Wort und ein Lächeln für den scheuen Torin übrig. Während seine Teamkollegen in Beziehungen sind, ist Hugo noch immer Single. Seine Frauenbekanntschaften sind mehr als flüchtig und oft vergisst er ihre Namen und Gesichter noch am gleichen Tag. Das ist nicht sehr charmant, aber leider Tatsache. Oft fühlt er sich also ein wenig unnütz, auch wenn seine Freunde ihn gern bei sich haben. Und so freundet er sich mit Torin an. Gleichzeitig beginnt er aber auch mit einer Unbekannten ein Chatgespräch, das ihn aber im Laufe der Zeit in eine gewisse Unsicherheit stürzt ....
Torin kann es gar nicht fassen, dass so ein toller und erfolgreicher Mann wie Hugo mit ihm befreundet sein will. Und Hugo hat auch Verständnis für seine Macken und seine Panik, die Menschen und Menschenansammlungen bei ihm verursachen. Gleichzeitig fühlt Torin sich aber auch schuldig. Denn aus einem Versehen heraus hat er einen Chat mit Hugo begonnen und dieser glaubt nun mit einem Mädchen zu plaudern. Aus der Nummer rauszukommen, das ist kaum möglich. Aber Torin fasst seinen Mut zusammen und springt zum ersten Mal in seinem Leben über seinen Schatten.
Hugo kennt man ja schon aus "Stick Lessons", der Geschichte von Toby und Atty. Ein wenig naiv, ohne Filter und wirklich interessiert an allem, stellt er in dieser Geschichte oft sehr persönliche und manchmal befremdliche Fragen. Aber Hugo ist eine gutmütige und sehr freundliche Natur. Man nimmt ihm seine Naivität und Unbedarftheit nicht übel. Die Beziehung zu Torin ist irgendwie die logische Konsequenz und er scheint nun erwachsener zu sein. Aber die Geschichte ist nicht nur romantisch, liebenswert und auch sexy. Beide Helden machen eine interessante Entwicklung durch und es kommen auch einige unerwartete Fakten über Hugo ans Licht.
Diese Geschichte hat mir wirklich gut gefallen. Überhaupt finde ich die Jungs aus dem L.A. Team sehr sympathisch und ihre Geschichte schön zu lesen.
Zumindest ist es das, was Hugo der Welt zeigt. Im Team und bei den Fans ist er beliebt. Er ist nicht abgehoben und zu allen freundlich. So hat er auch immer ein nettes Wort und ein Lächeln für den scheuen Torin übrig. Während seine Teamkollegen in Beziehungen sind, ist Hugo noch immer Single. Seine Frauenbekanntschaften sind mehr als flüchtig und oft vergisst er ihre Namen und Gesichter noch am gleichen Tag. Das ist nicht sehr charmant, aber leider Tatsache. Oft fühlt er sich also ein wenig unnütz, auch wenn seine Freunde ihn gern bei sich haben. Und so freundet er sich mit Torin an. Gleichzeitig beginnt er aber auch mit einer Unbekannten ein Chatgespräch, das ihn aber im Laufe der Zeit in eine gewisse Unsicherheit stürzt ....
Torin kann es gar nicht fassen, dass so ein toller und erfolgreicher Mann wie Hugo mit ihm befreundet sein will. Und Hugo hat auch Verständnis für seine Macken und seine Panik, die Menschen und Menschenansammlungen bei ihm verursachen. Gleichzeitig fühlt Torin sich aber auch schuldig. Denn aus einem Versehen heraus hat er einen Chat mit Hugo begonnen und dieser glaubt nun mit einem Mädchen zu plaudern. Aus der Nummer rauszukommen, das ist kaum möglich. Aber Torin fasst seinen Mut zusammen und springt zum ersten Mal in seinem Leben über seinen Schatten.
Hugo kennt man ja schon aus "Stick Lessons", der Geschichte von Toby und Atty. Ein wenig naiv, ohne Filter und wirklich interessiert an allem, stellt er in dieser Geschichte oft sehr persönliche und manchmal befremdliche Fragen. Aber Hugo ist eine gutmütige und sehr freundliche Natur. Man nimmt ihm seine Naivität und Unbedarftheit nicht übel. Die Beziehung zu Torin ist irgendwie die logische Konsequenz und er scheint nun erwachsener zu sein. Aber die Geschichte ist nicht nur romantisch, liebenswert und auch sexy. Beide Helden machen eine interessante Entwicklung durch und es kommen auch einige unerwartete Fakten über Hugo ans Licht.
Diese Geschichte hat mir wirklich gut gefallen. Überhaupt finde ich die Jungs aus dem L.A. Team sehr sympathisch und ihre Geschichte schön zu lesen.
December 2, 2024
Genre: M/M Romance
Format: E-Book
Series: For Puck's Sake # 10
Prior reading is not required but is recommended to get the best feels from the side-cast
Character Development: 3.9/5 • Torin and Hugo are dynamic characters. Both try to figure themselves out and find a home in each other. Torin's anxiety was handled with care and was so relatable.
Plot: 3.9/5 • The plot was engaging and well written. All the characters in this book felt real like they could be real characters in the real world. This was a slow-burn romance; however, the slow-burn friendship made this romance even more real.
Writing Style: 4.5/5 • The book was well written, with no grammatical or spelling errors. Things were explained in a way that didn't feel like overkill. As always her writing made me feel like I was in the heads of the MCs.
Spice Level: 1.5/5 • The spice evolved with the characters relationship. Looking at the tropes you know what to expect. There may not have been a lot of spice but the emotional intimacy was 10/10.
Overall Rating: 4.5/5 • Torin was such a sweet soul, maybe a bit misunderstood due to his social anxieties. I wasn't sure I would enjoy Hugo because he wasn't my favorite character in Atty and Toby's book (Stick Lessons) but this was a redemption for me. Hugo was such a lovable cuddle bug for me. The care he had for Torin was so heartwarming. I loved this pairing. This is probably my 3rd favorite in the series.
Tropes:
• Hockey Player x Mascot
• Bi-awakening
• Virgin MC
• Social Anxiety Rep
• Demisexual and demiromantic rep
• Slow burn
• HEA
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
KU: Yes
I received an advance review copy, and this is my honest review.
Format: E-Book
Series: For Puck's Sake # 10
Prior reading is not required but is recommended to get the best feels from the side-cast
Character Development: 3.9/5 • Torin and Hugo are dynamic characters. Both try to figure themselves out and find a home in each other. Torin's anxiety was handled with care and was so relatable.
Plot: 3.9/5 • The plot was engaging and well written. All the characters in this book felt real like they could be real characters in the real world. This was a slow-burn romance; however, the slow-burn friendship made this romance even more real.
Writing Style: 4.5/5 • The book was well written, with no grammatical or spelling errors. Things were explained in a way that didn't feel like overkill. As always her writing made me feel like I was in the heads of the MCs.
Spice Level: 1.5/5 • The spice evolved with the characters relationship. Looking at the tropes you know what to expect. There may not have been a lot of spice but the emotional intimacy was 10/10.
Overall Rating: 4.5/5 • Torin was such a sweet soul, maybe a bit misunderstood due to his social anxieties. I wasn't sure I would enjoy Hugo because he wasn't my favorite character in Atty and Toby's book (Stick Lessons) but this was a redemption for me. Hugo was such a lovable cuddle bug for me. The care he had for Torin was so heartwarming. I loved this pairing. This is probably my 3rd favorite in the series.
Tropes:
• Hockey Player x Mascot
• Bi-awakening
• Virgin MC
• Social Anxiety Rep
• Demisexual and demiromantic rep
• Slow burn
• HEA
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
KU: Yes
I received an advance review copy, and this is my honest review.
December 13, 2024
4.5 Stars
This is one of those stories that is part of a series, but it can be read as a stand alone. This is a pretty lengthy series so there are a lot of characters whose stories have been told earlier in the series. But this story is for Hugo. He has been a side character in past books, but this is his time to shine. This is an MM story, which I love reading. I love a bi-awakening because it always makes me happy to see someone open themselves up to love in whatever form it comes. I also really enjoyed seeing discussion of the asexual spectrum. It’s a topic that many don’t know anything about, especially something like demiromantic or demisexual and these are very real relationships. This story was sweet, with just enough angst to make it so that it wasn’t too sweet.
I adored Hugo. Having lived the himbo life that was thrust upon him, I thought he was such a sweetie because he just wanted love. It broke my heart when he talked about how he wanted the women that he had been with to call him, but they never did. He wanted a connection and that’s what he found in Torin. He’s a goofball, but just really the sweetest guy.
Torin was such a relatable character. Who hasn’t had a crush that they pined over from afar? And as someone that suffers from social anxiety, I thought the author did such a good job portraying that. And when he and Hugo start to have real conversations, Hugo was so sweet with Torin and did an amazing job of making him feel seen. These characters were so sweet and you couldn’t help but love them together. I usually get so antsy with a slow burn, but I thought it was so perfect with these two.
This was a sweet, MM hockey romance. There are definitely some spicy scenes, but there is a lot of exploration and learning what each other enjoys. I loved these two men. Their relationship was adorable and I loved reading it develop. This was a sweet MM romance with a splash of angst and an enjoyable read.
This is one of those stories that is part of a series, but it can be read as a stand alone. This is a pretty lengthy series so there are a lot of characters whose stories have been told earlier in the series. But this story is for Hugo. He has been a side character in past books, but this is his time to shine. This is an MM story, which I love reading. I love a bi-awakening because it always makes me happy to see someone open themselves up to love in whatever form it comes. I also really enjoyed seeing discussion of the asexual spectrum. It’s a topic that many don’t know anything about, especially something like demiromantic or demisexual and these are very real relationships. This story was sweet, with just enough angst to make it so that it wasn’t too sweet.
I adored Hugo. Having lived the himbo life that was thrust upon him, I thought he was such a sweetie because he just wanted love. It broke my heart when he talked about how he wanted the women that he had been with to call him, but they never did. He wanted a connection and that’s what he found in Torin. He’s a goofball, but just really the sweetest guy.
Torin was such a relatable character. Who hasn’t had a crush that they pined over from afar? And as someone that suffers from social anxiety, I thought the author did such a good job portraying that. And when he and Hugo start to have real conversations, Hugo was so sweet with Torin and did an amazing job of making him feel seen. These characters were so sweet and you couldn’t help but love them together. I usually get so antsy with a slow burn, but I thought it was so perfect with these two.
This was a sweet, MM hockey romance. There are definitely some spicy scenes, but there is a lot of exploration and learning what each other enjoys. I loved these two men. Their relationship was adorable and I loved reading it develop. This was a sweet MM romance with a splash of angst and an enjoyable read.
December 1, 2024
It’s Hugo’s book! Hugo has watched his friends, one by one, find their person. And it’s really starting to hit him that he doesn’t have someone like that in his life. Someone to go home to, share a life with, cuddle, and just be himself with. He loves his friends. They are super important to him but he knows that they need time with their partners and being a third wheel just doesn’t make him feel great. But things start to change when he gets to know Torin. For years, Torin has watched Hugo from afar at work. Torin works as a mascot for the LA hockey team Hugo is on. And from day one, Hugo has always been kind to him. It was no wonder he formed a crush. But Torin’s severe social anxiety keeps him from doing a lot of things. But everything changes when him and Hugo strike a conversation that leads to them hanging out. And then they just keep hanging out and getting to know one another. His crush changes into something so much more and real. And for Hugo, things are starting to click to him in a way it never has before. Torin makes Hugo feel so many things. Could it be what he has been searching for? I adored these two! They were so, so sweet!! I loved their budding friendship and how it slowly shifted over time. They just understood one another so well and respected one another’s boundaries. No matter what they were. I loved seeing them fall in love and find everything they ever wanted in a partner. As always, we get peeks at what others in the series have been up to while also getting to know some newer faces! This series just has it all. I love the characters and their journeys. Just another great one added to this series and as usual, I can’t wait for the next one!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 12, 2024
Format: 📱eBook 📱 (ARC)
Check CWs before reading
I've been waiting for Hugo's story since he highly featured in Stick Lessons, so was literally jumping with joy when Reitan announced he was getting his own book - and it did not disappoint! Our hockey himbo's journey to love is filled with humour and a few foot-in-mouth moments, but was also such a sweet, beautiful story to read.
I love that at the heart of it all, Hugo just wanted to find his person. He's seen all his closest friends pair off, and all he desires is to be able to do the same. The journey to Hugo getting his happily ever after with Torin is just honestly tooth-rottingly sweet, though there is some angst thrown in there. I love that despite everything, he's constantly this happy-go-lucky ball of energy. Yes, he may not know how to ask questions appropriately, but that's what makes him so endearing. And the rubber duckies? OMG, cutest thing his friends did for him.
Torin is such a sweetheart, and I love that he and Hugo became friends and then more. Reitan wrote his anxiety issues beautifully, highlighting them and making him feel very relatable, without putting too much drama into the anxiety. I loved that Hugo was the one to help ease Torin's anxiety, and on the flip side, that Torin was able to teach Hugo so much about himself, never once pushing.
These boys are honestly perfect for each other. It's such a sweet, slow burn story that ultimately is about finding what you want in life, and who you truly are (and that labels don't matter). I really enjoyed the moments of Torin in his mascot outfit, in the crowds during Hugo's game, and I loved the genuine feel good-ness this book evokes.
Thank you to the author for the eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
Check CWs before reading
I've been waiting for Hugo's story since he highly featured in Stick Lessons, so was literally jumping with joy when Reitan announced he was getting his own book - and it did not disappoint! Our hockey himbo's journey to love is filled with humour and a few foot-in-mouth moments, but was also such a sweet, beautiful story to read.
I love that at the heart of it all, Hugo just wanted to find his person. He's seen all his closest friends pair off, and all he desires is to be able to do the same. The journey to Hugo getting his happily ever after with Torin is just honestly tooth-rottingly sweet, though there is some angst thrown in there. I love that despite everything, he's constantly this happy-go-lucky ball of energy. Yes, he may not know how to ask questions appropriately, but that's what makes him so endearing. And the rubber duckies? OMG, cutest thing his friends did for him.
Torin is such a sweetheart, and I love that he and Hugo became friends and then more. Reitan wrote his anxiety issues beautifully, highlighting them and making him feel very relatable, without putting too much drama into the anxiety. I loved that Hugo was the one to help ease Torin's anxiety, and on the flip side, that Torin was able to teach Hugo so much about himself, never once pushing.
These boys are honestly perfect for each other. It's such a sweet, slow burn story that ultimately is about finding what you want in life, and who you truly are (and that labels don't matter). I really enjoyed the moments of Torin in his mascot outfit, in the crowds during Hugo's game, and I loved the genuine feel good-ness this book evokes.
Thank you to the author for the eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
December 18, 2024
This story is part of a long-running series but can be enjoyed as a standalone, offering readers a deeper look into Hugo, a side character from earlier books. Hugo’s journey is a heartfelt exploration of self-discovery, identity, and connection, paired with Torin’s quiet struggles with social anxiety. While the representation of themes like the asexual spectrum and demisexuality adds depth and inclusivity, the execution may not work for every reader.
The relationship between Hugo and Torin is undeniably sweet, focusing heavily on emotional intimacy and meaningful conversations. For readers who enjoy slow-burn romances centered on self-reflection and personal growth, this story shines. The characters’ thoughtful discussions about their identities and vulnerabilities are touching and nuanced. However, this emphasis on introspection sometimes overshadows the physical aspects of their romance. Moments of intimacy often fade to black, leaving readers who anticipated more explicit content feeling unsatisfied.
While the hockey backdrop adds a unique flavor, the portrayal of the players feels subdued. These characters, while introspective and kind, lack the fiery energy one might expect from professional athletes. The lighthearted moments and camaraderie are enjoyable, but the tone leans more towards quiet contemplation than raw passion.
Overall, this is a romance that prioritizes emotional connection over physical heat. It’s a thoughtful, inclusive read that celebrates love in all its forms, but those looking for a steamy sports romance may find it falls short of expectations.
January 8, 2025
The newest installment in the For Puck's Sake series!
Hugo, the big D man who is always the 9th wheel hanging out with his friends and their spouses. But Hugo has already been a hookup guy, which is strange, because he doesn't actually ENJOY the hookups. They feel empty, and he feels kinda numb when it's happening, but he's terrified of anything more.
When a mysterious girl starts texting him and they bond over a video game, Hugo is intrigued. He likes that the mystery woman isn't like a puck bunny who is just interested in his body or his monster 🍆. He actually feels a connection with her.
At the same time, Hugo has gotten close with the team's mascot, Torin. Torin is different -- so quiet and calm and anxious. But he loves spending quiet time with Hugo, cuddling and just laying low.
Torin, meanwhile, is living both his dream and nightmare. He's been in love with Hugo for years from afar, and now he gets to be wrapped up in Hugo's arms every day...but only platonically. He wants it to be real. Hugo is the best man he's ever met, and all he wants is to make Hugo happy. But Torin is worried that his anxiety will ruin yet another relationship...before it even starts.
This one was so sweet. Probably the sweetest of the series so far. I really related to Torin because I was diagnosed with anxiety almost 20 years ago and it can be crippling at times.
Like I said this one was so sweet, so much so that at like 75% I was like, wow Crea! This is so sweet! Not the usual grit and angst!
I should have known better. 😂
Rating 🔥🔥🔥🔥
@creareitan ....tell me the next book is about Azure!!!
Hugo, the big D man who is always the 9th wheel hanging out with his friends and their spouses. But Hugo has already been a hookup guy, which is strange, because he doesn't actually ENJOY the hookups. They feel empty, and he feels kinda numb when it's happening, but he's terrified of anything more.
When a mysterious girl starts texting him and they bond over a video game, Hugo is intrigued. He likes that the mystery woman isn't like a puck bunny who is just interested in his body or his monster 🍆. He actually feels a connection with her.
At the same time, Hugo has gotten close with the team's mascot, Torin. Torin is different -- so quiet and calm and anxious. But he loves spending quiet time with Hugo, cuddling and just laying low.
Torin, meanwhile, is living both his dream and nightmare. He's been in love with Hugo for years from afar, and now he gets to be wrapped up in Hugo's arms every day...but only platonically. He wants it to be real. Hugo is the best man he's ever met, and all he wants is to make Hugo happy. But Torin is worried that his anxiety will ruin yet another relationship...before it even starts.
This one was so sweet. Probably the sweetest of the series so far. I really related to Torin because I was diagnosed with anxiety almost 20 years ago and it can be crippling at times.
Like I said this one was so sweet, so much so that at like 75% I was like, wow Crea! This is so sweet! Not the usual grit and angst!
I should have known better. 😂
Rating 🔥🔥🔥🔥
@creareitan ....tell me the next book is about Azure!!!
December 24, 2024
Torin and Hugo’s story is absolutely heartwarming and swoon-worthy. Torin, with his shyness and struggles to communicate, felt so relatable. His job as a mascot, where he could hide behind a mask, was a clever way to show how he copes with anxiety. Hugo, on the other hand, is misunderstood by those around him. People see him as a carefree player, but he’s actually thoughtful and just searching for meaningful connections. Their relationship develops naturally, starting as friends and slowly evolving into something much deeper and more beautiful.
The romance in this book is a perfect example of a slow burn done right. Every moment between Torin and Hugo felt meaningful and authentic, whether it was through their texts, heartfelt conversations, or simple acts of care. Hugo’s efforts to plan thoughtful dates and show Torin how much he values him were especially touching. On the flip side, Torin’s unwavering support and understanding of Hugo’s quirks brought balance to their relationship. Their connection was sweet, genuine, and full of moments that made me smile.
Hugo’s character really stood out. Despite being seen as a carefree jock, he’s just a lonely guy who wants to find his person. Watching him open up to Torin and realize his own feelings was incredibly endearing. Torin’s role in helping Hugo see his own worth made their story even more impactful. It was equally beautiful to see how Hugo’s confidence helped Torin feel safe and valued in return.
This book isn’t just about romance—it’s also about personal growth, self-discovery, and finding where you belong. Torin and Hugo’s journey is a touching reminder of how love can bring out the best in people. The mix of sweetness, a touch of angst, and heartfelt moments made this story unforgettable. If you enjoy slow-burn romances with lovable characters and a satisfying emotional arc, this book is a must-read.
🅡🅐🅣🅘🅝🅖
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🅢🅟🅘🅒🅔
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
🅣🅡🅞🅟🅔🅢
🔥MM
🔥Hockey
🔥Mascot
🔥Virgin MMC
🔥Social Anxiety Rep
🔥Demisexual and Demiromantic Rep
The romance in this book is a perfect example of a slow burn done right. Every moment between Torin and Hugo felt meaningful and authentic, whether it was through their texts, heartfelt conversations, or simple acts of care. Hugo’s efforts to plan thoughtful dates and show Torin how much he values him were especially touching. On the flip side, Torin’s unwavering support and understanding of Hugo’s quirks brought balance to their relationship. Their connection was sweet, genuine, and full of moments that made me smile.
Hugo’s character really stood out. Despite being seen as a carefree jock, he’s just a lonely guy who wants to find his person. Watching him open up to Torin and realize his own feelings was incredibly endearing. Torin’s role in helping Hugo see his own worth made their story even more impactful. It was equally beautiful to see how Hugo’s confidence helped Torin feel safe and valued in return.
This book isn’t just about romance—it’s also about personal growth, self-discovery, and finding where you belong. Torin and Hugo’s journey is a touching reminder of how love can bring out the best in people. The mix of sweetness, a touch of angst, and heartfelt moments made this story unforgettable. If you enjoy slow-burn romances with lovable characters and a satisfying emotional arc, this book is a must-read.
🅡🅐🅣🅘🅝🅖
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🅢🅟🅘🅒🅔
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
🅣🅡🅞🅟🅔🅢
🔥MM
🔥Hockey
🔥Mascot
🔥Virgin MMC
🔥Social Anxiety Rep
🔥Demisexual and Demiromantic Rep
December 19, 2024
"One of the reasons I have a job as a mascot is so I can hide. No one is looking at me. They're looking at Surry the Seal. When I'm Surry, I'm a different person. In fact, I'm not a person at all. I'm a character. I'm playing a part."
As a cosplayer with social anxiety, I feel this to my very core. The moment I have my costume on, I'm an entirely different person, yes while some part of my personality comes through the costume itself gives me the confidence I need to talk to people, interact with them, and step out of my comfort zone without being overwhelmed.
Torin is the mascot for the LA team, and his crush on one of the players Hugo, is now a full-blown obsession to the point he even has a fish named after him. Hugo sees Torin, more than he realises. he always goes out of his way to say his, even if Torin is hiding in the shadows. What starts as friendship starts to become more. There are a few twists and turns along the way and Hugo's straight-to-the-point and sometimes misconceived comments were a great way for the author to say "This probably isn't how you should ask this question".
I loved every page and while the steam was a lot lower on the scale than we have seen before from this author, and I really enjoyed it. It's always great to get to see characters from other books, as well as potentially meet the next stories MMCs.
As a cosplayer with social anxiety, I feel this to my very core. The moment I have my costume on, I'm an entirely different person, yes while some part of my personality comes through the costume itself gives me the confidence I need to talk to people, interact with them, and step out of my comfort zone without being overwhelmed.
Torin is the mascot for the LA team, and his crush on one of the players Hugo, is now a full-blown obsession to the point he even has a fish named after him. Hugo sees Torin, more than he realises. he always goes out of his way to say his, even if Torin is hiding in the shadows. What starts as friendship starts to become more. There are a few twists and turns along the way and Hugo's straight-to-the-point and sometimes misconceived comments were a great way for the author to say "This probably isn't how you should ask this question".
I loved every page and while the steam was a lot lower on the scale than we have seen before from this author, and I really enjoyed it. It's always great to get to see characters from other books, as well as potentially meet the next stories MMCs.
January 3, 2025
this one didn’t do it for me
This one is my least liked in the series. It started off ok and then it just tapered and my interest kept waning. I read the authors note and I was good at everything she mentioned and nothing made me not want to continue so I went on my merry way. Sadly for reasons besides what was listed this just did not cut it for me. Some of the dialogue made me cringe and then I had to double check this was a book about a 28 year old and 24 year old……
Spoiler alert one of the MC’s has a huge di**. Oh wait not a spoiler since they literally mentioned it 149 times. I searched how many times di** was used 91 btw and coc* was used 58 times. Let’s just say since this a slow burn and very light spice the times the words were used was about how big he is… I got it in the first few chapters… by halfway through im thinking move on already we get it you haven’t worn underwear since a teen cause they don’t make them to
Be comfortable for people who are well endowed like you!! And the other character has social anxiety. I am all for mental health representation 💯 but between the constant times the anxiety was brought up and the size of the coc* almost made it feel like the plot of the book…. It overshadowed everything. Also I’m still trying to figure out why the thing happened at 91%. I felt not reason for this…
This one is my least liked in the series. It started off ok and then it just tapered and my interest kept waning. I read the authors note and I was good at everything she mentioned and nothing made me not want to continue so I went on my merry way. Sadly for reasons besides what was listed this just did not cut it for me. Some of the dialogue made me cringe and then I had to double check this was a book about a 28 year old and 24 year old……
Spoiler alert one of the MC’s has a huge di**. Oh wait not a spoiler since they literally mentioned it 149 times. I searched how many times di** was used 91 btw and coc* was used 58 times. Let’s just say since this a slow burn and very light spice the times the words were used was about how big he is… I got it in the first few chapters… by halfway through im thinking move on already we get it you haven’t worn underwear since a teen cause they don’t make them to
Be comfortable for people who are well endowed like you!! And the other character has social anxiety. I am all for mental health representation 💯 but between the constant times the anxiety was brought up and the size of the coc* almost made it feel like the plot of the book…. It overshadowed everything. Also I’m still trying to figure out why the thing happened at 91%. I felt not reason for this…
January 6, 2025
I’ve never identified with characters more!
I absolutely needed this book! Usually I find I identify with only one character in books but I felt kinship with both Hugo and Torin! As someone who is bi, has ADHD, and in the last year discovered they are demiromantic and demisexual, I spent a lot of this book wholeheartedly understanding and agreeing with Hugo. I know there is no mention of Hugo having ADHD but there are definitely some traits there. Plus I also have social anxiety, not to the same extent as Torin but I definitely related to his struggle.
I needed this book, I needed to see the love and support between Hugo and Torin but also from their friends. It was truly beautiful and this story felt like it was written just for me. I love this whole series and everything I have read by Crea Reitan but I already know this book will forever be my favourite.
Hugo is the adorable himbo jock just trying to figure out life through endless curiosity and his heart of gold. Torin is the incredibly shy team mascot who thinks he is invisible to everyone but Hugo. I spent most of this book giggling, belly laughing and absolutely giddy.
Tropes/subgenres/themes/triggers:
MM
Bi-awakening
Hockey
Himbo
Demisexual
Demiromantic
Asexual
Aromantic
Social anxiety (severe)
Found family
Slow burn/low spice
Teen pregnancy
Injury
I absolutely needed this book! Usually I find I identify with only one character in books but I felt kinship with both Hugo and Torin! As someone who is bi, has ADHD, and in the last year discovered they are demiromantic and demisexual, I spent a lot of this book wholeheartedly understanding and agreeing with Hugo. I know there is no mention of Hugo having ADHD but there are definitely some traits there. Plus I also have social anxiety, not to the same extent as Torin but I definitely related to his struggle.
I needed this book, I needed to see the love and support between Hugo and Torin but also from their friends. It was truly beautiful and this story felt like it was written just for me. I love this whole series and everything I have read by Crea Reitan but I already know this book will forever be my favourite.
Hugo is the adorable himbo jock just trying to figure out life through endless curiosity and his heart of gold. Torin is the incredibly shy team mascot who thinks he is invisible to everyone but Hugo. I spent most of this book giggling, belly laughing and absolutely giddy.
Tropes/subgenres/themes/triggers:
MM
Bi-awakening
Hockey
Himbo
Demisexual
Demiromantic
Asexual
Aromantic
Social anxiety (severe)
Found family
Slow burn/low spice
Teen pregnancy
Injury
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