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Offsides #3
Between the Pipes
Nico Mackenzie is angry and argumentative— in every way, he is the exact opposite of NHL goaltender Anthony Lawson. Thrown together for a summer of coaching college hockey at South Carolina University, Anthony makes every effort to be friendly; Nico, on the other hand, seems intent on being infuriating and keeping the other man at arm’s length.
When a causal relationship forms between the pair, they form an unsteady truce. The summer is finite, however, and when it comes to an end a decision has to be do they end things as they are or try for more?
When a causal relationship forms between the pair, they form an unsteady truce. The summer is finite, however, and when it comes to an end a decision has to be do they end things as they are or try for more?
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 309 reviews
September 2, 2024
4**** stars
I was actually about to go for the author’s recent series SCU Hockey when I saw someone raving about Coach and his partner being back on page and so I thought I might as well get their story first. And I was not disappointed. Actually, I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
A closeted college hockey coach and an NHL player who has never been interested in a man like that before.
There were two things that bothered me, though—hence my rating that could’ve easily been higher.
First, and maybe it’s just because I haven’t seen it before quite like this and obv have no personal experience with MM sex. But for Anthony having only to have had sex with women in the past he was strangely confident when he got into bed with Nico for all his firsts with a man. I mean, okay sure, he has gay friends and some of the stuff is not unusual for straight sex either. But without some kind of explanation why he wasn’t the least bit concerned with what to do, I was kind of a little confused.
Anyway. The second thing was the repetitiveness of words and phrases. There were quite a few but this one really stuck with me: I mean, even I can think of a few synonyms for prostate off of my head and reading the word like ten times on one page felt unnecessary. *lol
And yes, as other readers already pointed out, the story ends kind of abrupt but it didn’t felt unfinished to me. And I’m super hyped for Carter’s book now.
Overall, I totally recommend giving this author a shot and I’ve read a few times that other readers find the author’s writing improved quite a lot with each book, so I’m eager to start the spin-off college series now and probably coming back to this one after.
*************
Offsides Series
Book 1 - Changing the Game
Book 2 - Square to the Puck
Book 3 - Between the Pipes - 4.0 stars
Book 4 - From Coast to Coast - release 06/25
Spin-off series ⇢ SCU Hockey
I was actually about to go for the author’s recent series SCU Hockey when I saw someone raving about Coach and his partner being back on page and so I thought I might as well get their story first. And I was not disappointed. Actually, I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
I’ve got a few hours to kill and I need to come up with dinner plans. I’ve decided Nico Mackenzie has a date, whether he wants one or not.
A closeted college hockey coach and an NHL player who has never been interested in a man like that before.
There were two things that bothered me, though—hence my rating that could’ve easily been higher.
First, and maybe it’s just because I haven’t seen it before quite like this and obv have no personal experience with MM sex. But for Anthony having only to have had sex with women in the past he was strangely confident when he got into bed with Nico for all his firsts with a man. I mean, okay sure, he has gay friends and some of the stuff is not unusual for straight sex either. But without some kind of explanation why he wasn’t the least bit concerned with what to do, I was kind of a little confused.
Anyway. The second thing was the repetitiveness of words and phrases. There were quite a few but this one really stuck with me: I mean, even I can think of a few synonyms for prostate off of my head and reading the word like ten times on one page felt unnecessary. *lol
And yes, as other readers already pointed out, the story ends kind of abrupt but it didn’t felt unfinished to me. And I’m super hyped for Carter’s book now.
Overall, I totally recommend giving this author a shot and I’ve read a few times that other readers find the author’s writing improved quite a lot with each book, so I’m eager to start the spin-off college series now and probably coming back to this one after.
*************
Offsides Series
Book 1 - Changing the Game
Book 2 - Square to the Puck
Book 3 - Between the Pipes - 4.0 stars
Book 4 - From Coast to Coast - release 06/25
Spin-off series ⇢ SCU Hockey
July 13, 2025
I think this has been the best book of the series so far. I liked Lawson even when he was a secondary character in the l the first book, so I was keen to read about him.
I will not say the book is perfect because it isn’t, it still had some of the same issues as the other books in the series, mainly, random plot points that are never followed through. Like, what was up with the AC, it seemed to imply something was going on with his weird vibes, but it didn’t go anywhere.
As for the romance, I liked how Anthony was 100% invested in his non-relationship from the beginning, even if Nico was super rude and make not much sense, but I guess sometimes romance is like that? 🤷🏻♀️
Can’t wait to read about Carter next!
I will not say the book is perfect because it isn’t, it still had some of the same issues as the other books in the series, mainly, random plot points that are never followed through. Like, what was up with the AC, it seemed to imply something was going on with his weird vibes, but it didn’t go anywhere.
As for the romance, I liked how Anthony was 100% invested in his non-relationship from the beginning, even if Nico was super rude and make not much sense, but I guess sometimes romance is like that? 🤷🏻♀️
Can’t wait to read about Carter next!
September 8, 2024
This was absolutely freaking gorgeous!!
I loved Nico and Anthony's romance so damn much. Actually, I feel like I need to re-read the other two SCU Hockey books just to get more glimpses of them now that I know their story.
I loved this book so much. Apart from a few niggles (mainly, I wanted Nico to meet Con and Troy and Nigel and Sam a bit more properly; and also a longer epilogue!), I enjoyed the hell out of it, and I literally could not stop reading.
This book is absolutely packed with hurt/comfort (my FAVOURITE trope ever, and the way J.J. Mulder writes it is unparalleled) and I adored the grumpy/sunshine dynamic Nico and Anthony had going on.
I admit, sometimes I wasn't too keen on the way Nico kept kinda mistreating Anthony, but I understand where he was coming from, and regardless, I still ended up loving him. Anthony was the absolute best; he's so damn sweet and lovely and loving, and ughhhhhh, where do I find an Anthony? I loved that he was so unbothered about his attraction to Nico.
I adored the disability rep of the book. Seriously, more authors should follow J.J. Mulder's lead: we need more sports romances with disability rep. (Also, any recommendations?!)
I can't wait to read the next book. I'm so sad I've now finished these books 🥹
TWs/CWs: homophobia, hate crime, violence, injury, outing, hospitalisation and illness.
I loved Nico and Anthony's romance so damn much. Actually, I feel like I need to re-read the other two SCU Hockey books just to get more glimpses of them now that I know their story.
I loved this book so much. Apart from a few niggles (mainly, I wanted Nico to meet Con and Troy and Nigel and Sam a bit more properly; and also a longer epilogue!), I enjoyed the hell out of it, and I literally could not stop reading.
This book is absolutely packed with hurt/comfort (my FAVOURITE trope ever, and the way J.J. Mulder writes it is unparalleled) and I adored the grumpy/sunshine dynamic Nico and Anthony had going on.
I admit, sometimes I wasn't too keen on the way Nico kept kinda mistreating Anthony, but I understand where he was coming from, and regardless, I still ended up loving him. Anthony was the absolute best; he's so damn sweet and lovely and loving, and ughhhhhh, where do I find an Anthony? I loved that he was so unbothered about his attraction to Nico.
I adored the disability rep of the book. Seriously, more authors should follow J.J. Mulder's lead: we need more sports romances with disability rep. (Also, any recommendations?!)
I can't wait to read the next book. I'm so sad I've now finished these books 🥹
TWs/CWs: homophobia, hate crime, violence, injury, outing, hospitalisation and illness.
February 17, 2024
Anthony Lawson - goalie, so earnest, wagging his little tail at Nico, “straight”, goes with the flow
Nico Mackenzie - ex AHL player, brooding and hurt for reasons, grumpy sad boi, will deny his own feelings all day long
Enjoying this author and this low angst series. The characters, the humor, heart, hockey, and steam. Love how they weave everything together from the previous books. Some smart stuff that you have to catch.
Looking forward to Carter’s book next!
3.5 stars
Nico Mackenzie - ex AHL player, brooding and hurt for reasons, grumpy sad boi, will deny his own feelings all day long
Enjoying this author and this low angst series. The characters, the humor, heart, hockey, and steam. Love how they weave everything together from the previous books. Some smart stuff that you have to catch.
Looking forward to Carter’s book next!
3.5 stars
January 22, 2025
I think I’m done. This author creates lovable characters (except Nico in this book…did not love him, Lawson deserved better) but just isn’t a good writer. I’m sorry!
I have lots to complain about but mostly: the fastest “bi-for-you” ever with zero thoughts/angst, and suddenly a gay sex god. No romance. No I love yous. No epilogue. The most abrupt ending I’ve ever read. SO MANY PLOT LINES UNFINISHED AND/OR UNADRESSED!!!!!! Nico’s biggest concern is being outed or being out publicly and when it happens…nothing. Zilch. Weird time jumps! Ugh.
I have lots to complain about but mostly: the fastest “bi-for-you” ever with zero thoughts/angst, and suddenly a gay sex god. No romance. No I love yous. No epilogue. The most abrupt ending I’ve ever read. SO MANY PLOT LINES UNFINISHED AND/OR UNADRESSED!!!!!! Nico’s biggest concern is being outed or being out publicly and when it happens…nothing. Zilch. Weird time jumps! Ugh.
August 31, 2024
Hockey romance, college hockey coach, off-season NHL player helping said coach, bi-awakening, grumpy-sunshine. Another hero named Nico… They seem to pop up a lot in hockey books! Just an aside.
This Nico is a prickly, defensive, grumpy new head coach to a college team, one who’s hiding a pretty serious vision disability (and I have no idea how he can coach with it, bc his vision is pretty limited, but, I suspended disbelief). Nico comes to start work only to find out that the defensive coach he hired has quit just before he was to start. Left in the lurch, Nico’s surprised when his assistant coach offers a fast solution—it’s off season, and NHL goalie Anthony Lawson is happy to coach for the summer.
Nico’s prepared for disappointment, expecting a full-of-himself NHL celebrity who’s expecting to be fawned over. What he gets is the kindhearted, dedicated Anthony, who’s coming off an injury and wants to make a difference to the team. Thrown by his instant awareness of the known womanizer, Nico amps up the prickle and does his best to keep Anthony at arm’s length.
The intuitive Anthony notices Nico right away, including the unique, stiff way he moves, as if he’s unsure of his footing. Anthony knows Nico’s NHL career was cut short by a tragic injury, but that doesn’t explain Nico’s overtly antagonistic attitude toward Anthony. Having no reason to think it’s personal, Anthony stays cool and kills Nico with kindness, not rising to Nico’s mysterious short temper.
Nico’s gay and firmly in the closet, so when Anthony shows up out of the blue and catches him on a date at a gay bar, he’s shocked and alarmed. But the night takes an interesting turn when Anthony winds up driving Nico home. And from there, a tentative cease-fire is formed and they start to get to know each other.
Anthony’s been questioning why no relationships have ever worked out for him, and getting to know Nico has him questioning a lot more. Attraction spirals high and soon they’re agreeing to a colleagues with benefits situation that satisfies Nico’s fears and hurts Anthony’s giving heart. But Anthony’s new to being with a man, and his position is temporary…he has no call to ask for more…
This book has higher angst than the previous two, more romantic tension, more tension overall, with a bigot in the mix, the MCs trying to keep things completely secret, and messy feelings growing out of control. There are also wonderful moments of one MC caring for the other that warmed my heart, as well as Anthony bonding with a troubled team member (hero of a subsequent book) that was lovely to read. And cameos of the previous MCs, who are Anthony’s best friends, added nice layers to the read. Maybe Anthony’s ease with his sudden interest in a man was too easy, but, that didn’t bother me, I liked how accepting and in tune with his own desires he was.
I didn’t enjoy this book as much as the first two bc Nico is honestly a jerk too much to excuse, and once again the author biffs the ending, cutting it off with the romance just resolved but not even an ILY from either MC or a scene of the future, and that felt unsatisfying despite the relationship clearly moving forward. Also, the reason for Nico losing a lot of his sight is revealed, but the fact that it’s never dealt with, there’s no justice, no…anything to say there will be, was disappointing and frustrating. I was left feeling angry about it.
But, I still absolutely loved the characterizations and was sucked in and read it straight through; the book kept me riveted and flipping pages, just as the first two did.
HFN, closeted college hockey coach, player on IR/off-season assisting w coaching, forbidden-romance overtones, grumpy-sunshine dynamic. No cheating or OM drama; MC Nico does go on a date at the beginning before there’s any hit of connection bt them but it’s a bust and Anthony drives him home. Recommended, as is this series. The author’s style is addictive.
This Nico is a prickly, defensive, grumpy new head coach to a college team, one who’s hiding a pretty serious vision disability (and I have no idea how he can coach with it, bc his vision is pretty limited, but, I suspended disbelief). Nico comes to start work only to find out that the defensive coach he hired has quit just before he was to start. Left in the lurch, Nico’s surprised when his assistant coach offers a fast solution—it’s off season, and NHL goalie Anthony Lawson is happy to coach for the summer.
Nico’s prepared for disappointment, expecting a full-of-himself NHL celebrity who’s expecting to be fawned over. What he gets is the kindhearted, dedicated Anthony, who’s coming off an injury and wants to make a difference to the team. Thrown by his instant awareness of the known womanizer, Nico amps up the prickle and does his best to keep Anthony at arm’s length.
The intuitive Anthony notices Nico right away, including the unique, stiff way he moves, as if he’s unsure of his footing. Anthony knows Nico’s NHL career was cut short by a tragic injury, but that doesn’t explain Nico’s overtly antagonistic attitude toward Anthony. Having no reason to think it’s personal, Anthony stays cool and kills Nico with kindness, not rising to Nico’s mysterious short temper.
Nico’s gay and firmly in the closet, so when Anthony shows up out of the blue and catches him on a date at a gay bar, he’s shocked and alarmed. But the night takes an interesting turn when Anthony winds up driving Nico home. And from there, a tentative cease-fire is formed and they start to get to know each other.
Anthony’s been questioning why no relationships have ever worked out for him, and getting to know Nico has him questioning a lot more. Attraction spirals high and soon they’re agreeing to a colleagues with benefits situation that satisfies Nico’s fears and hurts Anthony’s giving heart. But Anthony’s new to being with a man, and his position is temporary…he has no call to ask for more…
This book has higher angst than the previous two, more romantic tension, more tension overall, with a bigot in the mix, the MCs trying to keep things completely secret, and messy feelings growing out of control. There are also wonderful moments of one MC caring for the other that warmed my heart, as well as Anthony bonding with a troubled team member (hero of a subsequent book) that was lovely to read. And cameos of the previous MCs, who are Anthony’s best friends, added nice layers to the read. Maybe Anthony’s ease with his sudden interest in a man was too easy, but, that didn’t bother me, I liked how accepting and in tune with his own desires he was.
I didn’t enjoy this book as much as the first two bc Nico is honestly a jerk too much to excuse, and once again the author biffs the ending, cutting it off with the romance just resolved but not even an ILY from either MC or a scene of the future, and that felt unsatisfying despite the relationship clearly moving forward. Also, the reason for Nico losing a lot of his sight is revealed, but the fact that it’s never dealt with, there’s no justice, no…anything to say there will be, was disappointing and frustrating. I was left feeling angry about it.
But, I still absolutely loved the characterizations and was sucked in and read it straight through; the book kept me riveted and flipping pages, just as the first two did.
HFN, closeted college hockey coach, player on IR/off-season assisting w coaching, forbidden-romance overtones, grumpy-sunshine dynamic. No cheating or OM drama; MC Nico does go on a date at the beginning before there’s any hit of connection bt them but it’s a bust and Anthony drives him home. Recommended, as is this series. The author’s style is addictive.
September 9, 2024
I almost re-read the entire thing, cause I forgot I read it Hahaha.
The usual treat:
🖤 MM sports romance
🖤 Dual POV
🖤 gay + bi-awakening
🖤 grumpy/sunshine
🖤 summer co-teaching
🖤 steam 🧖🏼♀️🧖🏼♀️🧖🏼♀️
The usual treat:
🖤 MM sports romance
🖤 Dual POV
🖤 gay + bi-awakening
🖤 grumpy/sunshine
🖤 summer co-teaching
🖤 steam 🧖🏼♀️🧖🏼♀️🧖🏼♀️
October 14, 2024
4.5 stars
I absolutely loved this!
Nico and Anthony were adorable 💜
I absolutely loved this!
Nico and Anthony were adorable 💜
September 20, 2024
3.5 stars.
This one had a more intense relationship than the previous two books.
I found both Nico and Anthony likeable and I adored that their relationship was mature since they were adults.
This author knows how to write relationships where the characters are adults.
Nico was my favorite here,I connected with him more but the author left a few unanswered questions about him through.
Where is his family ? Does he not have one ?
While I didn't like that the one who was responsible for Nico "accident" didn't get punished this made it more realistic cause life is not fair sometimes(more like all the time).
Anthony was a sweetheart throughout the whole book and I adored his love for Nico.
I liked how there was no big freak out that he likes him,he just goes along with his feelings which I found refreshing.
Their relationship was full of longing and angst and at some point I got frustrated at how slow they were moving but the moments when they were all domestic made me smile.
I wish that we got to see Nico interact with Corwin,Nigel,Troy and Sam cause I was waiting for that to happen but it didn't and it left me feeling a little diaspointed.
I like how every book I've read by this author is realistic to some degree.
I'm excited to read the other series that is connected to this one,especially the one about Carter.
This one had a more intense relationship than the previous two books.
I found both Nico and Anthony likeable and I adored that their relationship was mature since they were adults.
This author knows how to write relationships where the characters are adults.
Nico was my favorite here,I connected with him more but the author left a few unanswered questions about him through.
Where is his family ? Does he not have one ?
While I didn't like that the one who was responsible for Nico "accident" didn't get punished this made it more realistic cause life is not fair sometimes(more like all the time).
Anthony was a sweetheart throughout the whole book and I adored his love for Nico.
I liked how there was no big freak out that he likes him,he just goes along with his feelings which I found refreshing.
Their relationship was full of longing and angst and at some point I got frustrated at how slow they were moving but the moments when they were all domestic made me smile.
I wish that we got to see Nico interact with Corwin,Nigel,Troy and Sam cause I was waiting for that to happen but it didn't and it left me feeling a little diaspointed.
I like how every book I've read by this author is realistic to some degree.
I'm excited to read the other series that is connected to this one,especially the one about Carter.
November 10, 2024
3+
Tym razem było lepiej, nie było żadnych opuszczonych i niedokończonych wątków, ani postaci, które się pojawiają, wydaje się, że odegrają jakąś rolę i znikają właściwie zaraz po pierwszym wejściu (jak choćby homofobiczny Mr Frank z jedynki). Nie było też jednej szybkiej rozmowy, która rozwiązywała wszystkie problemy. Było trudniej, bo Nico nie był specjalnie łatwym bohaterem.
Ostatni rozdział, który równocześnie miał być też chyba epilogiem, też lepszy, choć ciągle mało satysfakcjonujący jak na zakończenie. Ale generalnie to najlepsza część, zatem zaokrąglam w górę 😉
Tym razem było lepiej, nie było żadnych opuszczonych i niedokończonych wątków, ani postaci, które się pojawiają, wydaje się, że odegrają jakąś rolę i znikają właściwie zaraz po pierwszym wejściu (jak choćby homofobiczny Mr Frank z jedynki). Nie było też jednej szybkiej rozmowy, która rozwiązywała wszystkie problemy. Było trudniej, bo Nico nie był specjalnie łatwym bohaterem.
Ostatni rozdział, który równocześnie miał być też chyba epilogiem, też lepszy, choć ciągle mało satysfakcjonujący jak na zakończenie. Ale generalnie to najlepsza część, zatem zaokrąglam w górę 😉
March 19, 2024
Another good one by JJ Mulder! This series is wonderful!
I wish the end of the books went on for a bit longer!
I’m excited for the spin-off series, though!!
I wish the end of the books went on for a bit longer!
I’m excited for the spin-off series, though!!
March 25, 2025
I absolutely love these characters but once again what is that ending 😭😭
March 19, 2025
SOUP🍵🥹
This story was absolutely precious. A forbidden romance between a famous NHL goalie and a retired AHL player turned college hockey coach, complete with some angst, soup, and heartache.
Anthony Lawson has never been attracted to men before but ever since his two best friends found happiness in their gay relationships he’s been wondering what all the fuss is about. Volunteering for SCU’s summer hockey camp, he meets Nico Mackenzie and realizes oh maybe that’s what it’s all about. Lawson dives headfirst into his attraction, no qualms or questions about it. Nico on the other hand is grumpy, reserved, and definitely doesn’t need the stress of Anthony Lawson in his life in addition to adjusting to his first year as head coach and managing his disability (legally blind), not with Anthony taking up space, making him laugh, tearing down his walls, and giving him hope for a future. So of course, Nico offers a friends with benefits summer fling and Anthony (dejected that’s all he wants) agrees to his rules, knowing it’ll be his heart broken at the end of the summer.
It was really sweet to see how carefree Anthony has a really emotional side. He immediately attaches to Nico and decides he can be patient - he’s playing the long game. Nico takes longer, but it’s just as sweet to see him open up, learn his quirks and habits, how he works with the kids, and heal from his past trauma. They both need each other in ways that complement and I loved the caretaking.
I also loved all the cameos from Anthony’s teammates! Plus Carter Morgan - what an origin story! I read his book first so this makes me want to go back and reread his. Another lovable grump!
4.25/5
This story was absolutely precious. A forbidden romance between a famous NHL goalie and a retired AHL player turned college hockey coach, complete with some angst, soup, and heartache.
Anthony Lawson has never been attracted to men before but ever since his two best friends found happiness in their gay relationships he’s been wondering what all the fuss is about. Volunteering for SCU’s summer hockey camp, he meets Nico Mackenzie and realizes oh maybe that’s what it’s all about. Lawson dives headfirst into his attraction, no qualms or questions about it. Nico on the other hand is grumpy, reserved, and definitely doesn’t need the stress of Anthony Lawson in his life in addition to adjusting to his first year as head coach and managing his disability (legally blind), not with Anthony taking up space, making him laugh, tearing down his walls, and giving him hope for a future. So of course, Nico offers a friends with benefits summer fling and Anthony (dejected that’s all he wants) agrees to his rules, knowing it’ll be his heart broken at the end of the summer.
It was really sweet to see how carefree Anthony has a really emotional side. He immediately attaches to Nico and decides he can be patient - he’s playing the long game. Nico takes longer, but it’s just as sweet to see him open up, learn his quirks and habits, how he works with the kids, and heal from his past trauma. They both need each other in ways that complement and I loved the caretaking.
I also loved all the cameos from Anthony’s teammates! Plus Carter Morgan - what an origin story! I read his book first so this makes me want to go back and reread his. Another lovable grump!
4.25/5
Read
February 18, 2025Pleasant, likable, juuuuuust past my ability to suspend disbelief in terms of some small details/plot choices. DNF @ 17%.
January 9, 2025
Reread:
“You’re nothing like I expected you to be, Anthony Lawson,” he says, and sounds improbably sad again. “You’re nothing like I expected you to be, either, Nico Mackenzie.”
Og review:
This is THE book in the series!!!
I read “Shots on Net” first and after meeting Coach I HAD to go back and start from the beginning! Safe to say this book was utter perfection to me.
Anthony is my golden retriever baby! He was so adorable in all the other books and even more so in his own. Despite being agitated by Nico, he finds himself attracted to him, a man, for the first time. In true Tony fashion, he goes all in and wants a relationship even though he’s never wanted one before.
Coach Grumpy has been hurt before and since his accident that has left him almost fully blind, he isn’t ready for a relationship. He sets rules for both him and Tony with my personal favourite “no kissing” rule😌
I love me a grump so I would do absolutely anything for coach. He deserved all the love and attention.
Tony was the best partner. He was so attentive and lovely that it made my heart hurt😭
This had a third act break up that i actually loved? The reason was truly good enough and they both communicated. I was shooketh at how maturely it was handled even though it hurt.
I love them so much. I love the way they adopted Carter. I loved the plot. I loved every single thing about this book!
“You’re nothing like I expected you to be, Anthony Lawson,” he says, and sounds improbably sad again. “You’re nothing like I expected you to be, either, Nico Mackenzie.”
Og review:
This is THE book in the series!!!
I read “Shots on Net” first and after meeting Coach I HAD to go back and start from the beginning! Safe to say this book was utter perfection to me.
Anthony is my golden retriever baby! He was so adorable in all the other books and even more so in his own. Despite being agitated by Nico, he finds himself attracted to him, a man, for the first time. In true Tony fashion, he goes all in and wants a relationship even though he’s never wanted one before.
Coach Grumpy has been hurt before and since his accident that has left him almost fully blind, he isn’t ready for a relationship. He sets rules for both him and Tony with my personal favourite “no kissing” rule😌
I love me a grump so I would do absolutely anything for coach. He deserved all the love and attention.
Tony was the best partner. He was so attentive and lovely that it made my heart hurt😭
This had a third act break up that i actually loved? The reason was truly good enough and they both communicated. I was shooketh at how maturely it was handled even though it hurt.
I love them so much. I love the way they adopted Carter. I loved the plot. I loved every single thing about this book!
August 6, 2024
2.5/3
Okay... I really did enjoy this book but closer to the end I had trouble staying focused on it. It just was the same thing for the entire book it felt like. The ending was... boring honestly. I felt like there could've been a better climax to this book. Actually, I don't think there really was a climax for this book which kinda sucked. I feel like this is common in her books though. The endings need more... zest... more anything to be honest.
Okay... I really did enjoy this book but closer to the end I had trouble staying focused on it. It just was the same thing for the entire book it felt like. The ending was... boring honestly. I felt like there could've been a better climax to this book. Actually, I don't think there really was a climax for this book which kinda sucked. I feel like this is common in her books though. The endings need more... zest... more anything to be honest.
October 5, 2024
4.25⭐️
I’m glad that I got to finally read Anthony and Nico’s story because I first knew about them as Tony and Coach Mackenzie, through Carter’s eyes, in Shots On Net. Carter appears a lot in this book by the way, I loved that! It was a great introduction to his own book.
I enjoyed the book a lot, I love how Anthony showed that Nico could be loved and wanted after his accident on the ice. He was so lonely at the beginning, he deserved to have someone by his side and Anthony was the perfect person. It was angstier than the other books and I loved it.
I’m glad that I got to finally read Anthony and Nico’s story because I first knew about them as Tony and Coach Mackenzie, through Carter’s eyes, in Shots On Net. Carter appears a lot in this book by the way, I loved that! It was a great introduction to his own book.
I enjoyed the book a lot, I love how Anthony showed that Nico could be loved and wanted after his accident on the ice. He was so lonely at the beginning, he deserved to have someone by his side and Anthony was the perfect person. It was angstier than the other books and I loved it.
August 26, 2025
coach mackenzie carries the scu books so i wanted to read his book but this was really nothing special i was quite bored and forced myself to finish it. jj mulder's pacing is always awful but here it was especially unbearable, and i didn't feel the chemistry of the relationship. these books also all feel quite idealistic/unrealistic with the way that EVERYONE is gay and it ends up feeling kind of like a parody. but whatever it's cute i guess live your lives kings
June 14, 2025
I’m obsessed with Anthony. I have been since book 1 in the series. I love how gone he is for Nico so early on.
I accidentally read books 1 & 2 of the SCU series first. I loved seeing Carter, and how the events in this book lead into his own.
I’m eating up this series. I just want moreeee.
I accidentally read books 1 & 2 of the SCU series first. I loved seeing Carter, and how the events in this book lead into his own.
I’m eating up this series. I just want moreeee.
December 31, 2024
How to kill parasite in my brain that longs for these books pls help
March 8, 2024
4.5/5. Another hit from JJ Mulder! Seriously there are no misses in this series. I love Nico and Anthony so, so much. Nico is so stubborn and grumpy while Anthony is so easy going and sunshiney. They both care so much - about each other and the kids they're coaching. i love how Anthony connects with Carter. It's so sweet! And how he takes care of Nico. It's so frustrating to see Nico fight himself at every turn to not allow himself to have something with Anthony. Oh and hiding his disability (near blindness) from Anthony and others. Also, one thing I am devastated I didn't get to see is Nico finding out Corwin and Nigel are together. I wanted his reaction so badly. (JJ if you're reading this - throw me a bone with a novella please!)
Overall, I adored these men. They were so sweet to each other. They were wonderful coaches and loved helping the kids. I greatly disliked Avery from the jump and no wonder. He sucks. But I also enjoyed seeing a little bit of that negativity in hockey because the first two books were so positive. The reactions to Troy and Sam's engagement made everything feel more real.
And finally, I want to read about Anthony caring for a sick Nico forever. Like... over and over and over again please. 3/5 spice levels.
Notes: grumpy/sunshine, MC with a disability (partially blind), homophobia, coworkers, friends with benefits, queer awakening
Overall, I adored these men. They were so sweet to each other. They were wonderful coaches and loved helping the kids. I greatly disliked Avery from the jump and no wonder. He sucks. But I also enjoyed seeing a little bit of that negativity in hockey because the first two books were so positive. The reactions to Troy and Sam's engagement made everything feel more real.
And finally, I want to read about Anthony caring for a sick Nico forever. Like... over and over and over again please. 3/5 spice levels.
Notes: grumpy/sunshine, MC with a disability (partially blind), homophobia, coworkers, friends with benefits, queer awakening
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2024
3.5 stars. Really liked the characters and their relationship (Anthony caring for Nico when he was so ill was very nice), but there were a few small things that kept me from rating this higher:
* There were some weird time skips that annoyed me (the one when Nico was ill was the worst: one moment he is ill in bed and the next we've skipped two months ahead. Why?)
* I wanted more background info on especially Nico. We only know he had a best friend who screwed him over, but what about his parents? How/where did he grow up? Apparently they're not around, because they never visited/called when he was sick?
* I'm glad Nico had a job with the hockey team, but how was he able to coach the team really well when he couldn't see the puck half of the time? How did he cope with new environments when they were on the road?
* I wanted to see more of them being out and about after the statement. How would Nico cope with the increased attention?
But again, I really liked these two together, so I was able to mostly park those questions and just enjoy the story for what it was.
* There were some weird time skips that annoyed me (the one when Nico was ill was the worst: one moment he is ill in bed and the next we've skipped two months ahead. Why?)
* I wanted more background info on especially Nico. We only know he had a best friend who screwed him over, but what about his parents? How/where did he grow up? Apparently they're not around, because they never visited/called when he was sick?
* I'm glad Nico had a job with the hockey team, but how was he able to coach the team really well when he couldn't see the puck half of the time? How did he cope with new environments when they were on the road?
* I wanted to see more of them being out and about after the statement. How would Nico cope with the increased attention?
But again, I really liked these two together, so I was able to mostly park those questions and just enjoy the story for what it was.
January 19, 2025
It's actually a 3,5 star book, but I rounded it a bit. I guess I just liked more the ones about traumatized grown up men (2nd and 3rd books).
Same issues as the previous books, but I kinda expect them at this point and I am willing to feign dementia and pretend they're not there.
Anthony Lawson is the best golden retriever boyfriend. I kinda despised Nico a bit at first, even though I knew where he was coming from. But we made peace somewhere along the road. That man is way stronger than me though, cause who the hell would wait that long to kiss THE Anthony Lawson? Anyways.
Just another silly little story to have me giggling for a while. Seems like I'm gonna be reading all J.J Mulder books at this point. Oh well.
Same issues as the previous books, but I kinda expect them at this point and I am willing to feign dementia and pretend they're not there.
Anthony Lawson is the best golden retriever boyfriend. I kinda despised Nico a bit at first, even though I knew where he was coming from. But we made peace somewhere along the road. That man is way stronger than me though, cause who the hell would wait that long to kiss THE Anthony Lawson? Anyways.
Just another silly little story to have me giggling for a while. Seems like I'm gonna be reading all J.J Mulder books at this point. Oh well.
June 15, 2024
This may have been my favorite of the Offsides series. Mulder's portrayal of a MMC with a vision disability and the trepidation he felt of revealing it was heart-wrenching. The relationship between Nico and Anthony was so sweet and underlined by the kindness found in all of Mulder's characters. As someone with a severe astigmatism requiring non-traditional correction, I found Nico's struggle to be relatable and was yet again impressed by JJ Mulder's writing. They write their characters with such vulnerability and depth you cannot help but to feel all the emotions throughout these stories.
JJ Mulder’s books are like a warm hug. Honestly not sure what I’m going to do without being able to read more about the universe of Sam, Troy, Corwin, Nigel, Anthony, and Nico. They are such fun, lovable characters and I’m gonna miss them!
JJ Mulder’s books are like a warm hug. Honestly not sure what I’m going to do without being able to read more about the universe of Sam, Troy, Corwin, Nigel, Anthony, and Nico. They are such fun, lovable characters and I’m gonna miss them!
June 27, 2025
unfortunately this author has the nasty habit of ending their books in the most sudden way and also having important moments off page (or not at all) like first kiss, first “i love you”… like…. why….. would you do that……
June 27, 2024
Everything about these books just makes me so happy
September 7, 2024
Ohhhh this one really got me, definitely the best one of the series so far
August 14, 2025
I think this is my favourite book of this series. I loved watching Nico and Anthony fall for each other. This has all the feels and Anthony caring for a sick Nico had me swooning. Loved this! Definitely recommend if you're looking for an mm hockey romance that's low on angst.
July 20, 2025
Was this good? No. Did I still finish it in one sitting? Yes.
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