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One More Time
Tyler Riley never thought he’d get the chance to leave home. In the small, coastal town of Perth, Australia, he can only dream of being the next big hockey star. But as luck would have it, opportunity knocks in the form of a prestigious hockey scholarship. Torn between his devotion to his family and his career, Tyler puts everything on the line to start over halfway across the world.
Brooding Bostonian Hunter Graves has one goal in head down, focus on his career. A chance encounter with a transfer student from Australia, however, throws a wrench in his plans. Unbeknownst to him, Tyler is not only a fellow student—but his new teammate. Helmets clash on and off the ice, creating a level of tension that neither man can ignore.
Tyler dreams of a pro hockey career, but at what cost? Hunter finds himself falling for the new guy in town, but can he break down that wall he’s hidden behind all these years?
With every electrifying clash on the ice—and in the bedroom—One More Time takes readers on a rollercoaster journey of love and self-discovery. Do these two men have what it takes to prove that love can truly conquer all?
Brooding Bostonian Hunter Graves has one goal in head down, focus on his career. A chance encounter with a transfer student from Australia, however, throws a wrench in his plans. Unbeknownst to him, Tyler is not only a fellow student—but his new teammate. Helmets clash on and off the ice, creating a level of tension that neither man can ignore.
Tyler dreams of a pro hockey career, but at what cost? Hunter finds himself falling for the new guy in town, but can he break down that wall he’s hidden behind all these years?
With every electrifying clash on the ice—and in the bedroom—One More Time takes readers on a rollercoaster journey of love and self-discovery. Do these two men have what it takes to prove that love can truly conquer all?
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 8, 2024
61 people are currently reading
410 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
August 16, 2024
It's 4.30 AM and I've just finished reading this book.
It's about 100 pages too long, that's one.
Main or side characters weren't fleshed out, most of them pretty annoying and some of them downright not believable.
This is a debut, which is fine - more the reason I have to be really honest.
🔵 American/Aussie
🟡 College hockey
🟢 Bisexual/gay-awakening
🟣 Secret relationship, hiding, but not really
🔵 No relationship development
🟠 Abusive parent, death of a parent
🌶️ A lot of sex; good but would've liked more quality to the story itself; both vers
Tyler and Hunter are two college hockey players who supposedly have a rivals/enemies energy to them, but they really don't. That gets taken care of in a hot minute, it only takes one party where Tyler is drawn into a threesome with Hunter and his unofficial girlfriend and then everything's suddenly forgotten.
Feelings were supposed to start developing at a rapid pace, yet I wasn't able to detect them. Tyler and Hunter just started having sex and talked about it being something more, but it was all talk, no show. Their relationship didn't convince me in the slightest.
More so, Tyler was a brat. He was so juvenile and had temper tantrums that I disliked.
Hunter had much more promise and his part of the story was worth reading, but again, it had no closure, so it looked like the author put that in there just for a little bit of drama and in general the story started reminding me of Hidden Scars, right off the bat.
Tyler's brother Jamie as a 14 year old kid sounded like a college guy. No way a 14 year old kid talks like he did. Especially with his older brother who's always taken care of him, the only family he's got left.
“My perfect brother fucked up by fucking his own teammate!”
It was also weird how Jamie and Tyler's aunt just said to Tyler, who was in Boston on a hockey scholarship, to take Jamie with him to the dorms for a few months when their mother died. How is that possible? He can't do that. And why wasn't the aunt taking care of a minor? So many things here just didn't add up.
Overall dialogues and monologues weren't palatable. The style of writing didn't sit right with me. I didn't like it.
“How do you always know where my head is, even so far away?”
“The same way I can connect a puck to your stick without seeing you. I feel you baby.” 🥴
The part where Tyler is defending Hunter from his abusive father. I expected him to get into a fight or something, but they were just yapping at each other. It was ridiculous and again looked very juvenile, the whole thing.
“Admit it Mr. Graves, all you have is fists and no heart. All you want is to beat your son into submission but it hasn’t worked up to now, has it?”
“He is my son, and I’ll discipline him any way I like!”
The end. Case closed. They just told his father to leave him alone and that was it.
The writing and storytelling definitely needs maturing.
I didn't like anything, pretty much, I think this author took the books they loved reading and combined them into this new story that isn't authentic, I can't feel any kind of passion or originality behind it.
I did find the setting promising and if a few of the side characters were a bit more polished, I can see this series succeeding.
It's about 100 pages too long, that's one.
Main or side characters weren't fleshed out, most of them pretty annoying and some of them downright not believable.
This is a debut, which is fine - more the reason I have to be really honest.
🔵 American/Aussie
🟡 College hockey
🟢 Bisexual/gay-awakening
🟣 Secret relationship, hiding, but not really
🔵 No relationship development
🟠 Abusive parent, death of a parent
🌶️ A lot of sex; good but would've liked more quality to the story itself; both vers
Tyler and Hunter are two college hockey players who supposedly have a rivals/enemies energy to them, but they really don't. That gets taken care of in a hot minute, it only takes one party where Tyler is drawn into a threesome with Hunter and his unofficial girlfriend and then everything's suddenly forgotten.
Feelings were supposed to start developing at a rapid pace, yet I wasn't able to detect them. Tyler and Hunter just started having sex and talked about it being something more, but it was all talk, no show. Their relationship didn't convince me in the slightest.
More so, Tyler was a brat. He was so juvenile and had temper tantrums that I disliked.
Hunter had much more promise and his part of the story was worth reading, but again, it had no closure, so it looked like the author put that in there just for a little bit of drama and in general the story started reminding me of Hidden Scars, right off the bat.
Tyler's brother Jamie as a 14 year old kid sounded like a college guy. No way a 14 year old kid talks like he did. Especially with his older brother who's always taken care of him, the only family he's got left.
“My perfect brother fucked up by fucking his own teammate!”
It was also weird how Jamie and Tyler's aunt just said to Tyler, who was in Boston on a hockey scholarship, to take Jamie with him to the dorms for a few months when their mother died. How is that possible? He can't do that. And why wasn't the aunt taking care of a minor? So many things here just didn't add up.
Overall dialogues and monologues weren't palatable. The style of writing didn't sit right with me. I didn't like it.
“How do you always know where my head is, even so far away?”
“The same way I can connect a puck to your stick without seeing you. I feel you baby.” 🥴
The part where Tyler is defending Hunter from his abusive father. I expected him to get into a fight or something, but they were just yapping at each other. It was ridiculous and again looked very juvenile, the whole thing.
“Admit it Mr. Graves, all you have is fists and no heart. All you want is to beat your son into submission but it hasn’t worked up to now, has it?”
“He is my son, and I’ll discipline him any way I like!”
The end. Case closed. They just told his father to leave him alone and that was it.
The writing and storytelling definitely needs maturing.
I didn't like anything, pretty much, I think this author took the books they loved reading and combined them into this new story that isn't authentic, I can't feel any kind of passion or originality behind it.
I did find the setting promising and if a few of the side characters were a bit more polished, I can see this series succeeding.
May 31, 2024
Hunter and Tyler. Ty, Baby, Aussie, Aus. Boston. All of the nicknames. All of the love.
This was a bit darker than I expected to be honest. It’s not “dark” by any means but there are some darker elements and scenes with Hunter and his dad specifically.
Hunter and Ty start off as unspoken enemies but that doesn’t last long. Their chemistry is immediate and LOUD. 😭
Their story was so beautiful and the near tangible levels of longing and love was the best.
Hunter really stole the show for me. Ty would go to any length to protect those around him but Hunter? Would throw himself on a grenade without you knowing that he did it. He’s the silent defender that lurks in the figurative shadows. The way Rory made subtle references to this was not lost on me.
He always has Tyler’s back, on or off the ice.
The only thing that was a bit weird for me was the timeline. It got kind of confusing in some spots but other than that, I genuinely enjoyed their story. 🖤
I received a complimentary copy of this book but this is my honest and voluntary review!🖤
This was a bit darker than I expected to be honest. It’s not “dark” by any means but there are some darker elements and scenes with Hunter and his dad specifically.
Hunter and Ty start off as unspoken enemies but that doesn’t last long. Their chemistry is immediate and LOUD. 😭
Their story was so beautiful and the near tangible levels of longing and love was the best.
Hunter really stole the show for me. Ty would go to any length to protect those around him but Hunter? Would throw himself on a grenade without you knowing that he did it. He’s the silent defender that lurks in the figurative shadows. The way Rory made subtle references to this was not lost on me.
He always has Tyler’s back, on or off the ice.
The only thing that was a bit weird for me was the timeline. It got kind of confusing in some spots but other than that, I genuinely enjoyed their story. 🖤
I received a complimentary copy of this book but this is my honest and voluntary review!🖤
May 22, 2024
One More Time by Rory Lector is book 1 in the Time on the Ice series.
I had a great time discovering Rory Lector's debut. It's always a gamble to pick up a book by a new author and not know what to expect. I was hoping for a hockey romance with engaging characters and that's exactly what I got. It was a fun, sweet read with a good dose of angst.
Tyler and Hunter each had their own challenges and problems. Both brought out strong emotions in me, especially Tyler who had so much on his plate. Hunter, on the other hand, was the one who won my heart. The player who couldn't resist his attraction to Tyler. There was so much more to him than meets the eye. They were perfect and so cute together!
I was a little puzzled that Tyler and Hunter quickly went all the way sexually and wondered how the author would keep things interesting until the end. Rory Lector has approached this brilliantly, giving us plenty of spice and making their relationship evolve very slowly. The push and pull was absolutely exquisite.
I thought the climax of the story came a little too quickly. We were treated to this incredible scene that closed a thread in the story, and it was fast-paced and exciting. The 20% that came afterwards made me feel like the end of the book was stretching out a bit more than necessary. I enjoyed Tyler and Hunter's final moments, but the pace was a little slow for my taste.
There was a lot to like in One More Time and without hesitation I'd recommend it to any hockey romance fan. Tyler and Hunter are so worth it!
I had a great time discovering Rory Lector's debut. It's always a gamble to pick up a book by a new author and not know what to expect. I was hoping for a hockey romance with engaging characters and that's exactly what I got. It was a fun, sweet read with a good dose of angst.
Tyler and Hunter each had their own challenges and problems. Both brought out strong emotions in me, especially Tyler who had so much on his plate. Hunter, on the other hand, was the one who won my heart. The player who couldn't resist his attraction to Tyler. There was so much more to him than meets the eye. They were perfect and so cute together!
I was a little puzzled that Tyler and Hunter quickly went all the way sexually and wondered how the author would keep things interesting until the end. Rory Lector has approached this brilliantly, giving us plenty of spice and making their relationship evolve very slowly. The push and pull was absolutely exquisite.
I thought the climax of the story came a little too quickly. We were treated to this incredible scene that closed a thread in the story, and it was fast-paced and exciting. The 20% that came afterwards made me feel like the end of the book was stretching out a bit more than necessary. I enjoyed Tyler and Hunter's final moments, but the pace was a little slow for my taste.
There was a lot to like in One More Time and without hesitation I'd recommend it to any hockey romance fan. Tyler and Hunter are so worth it!
Read
June 27, 2024Dnf.
Missing Content Warnings / Trigger Warnings I wasn't prepared for:
-MMF
-Their first time being a MMF
-MC1 carrying an unhealed trauma from non-con with a woman, and forced into an unwanted MMF by the other MC2 with his Female fk-buddy.
-MC2 insisting for MC1 to have a certain sx position including the F because it was a position he and the F had never tried, ignoring MC1's discomfort.
Unfortunately all this was quite a trigger and I couldn't read any further.
CW TW
Missing Content Warnings / Trigger Warnings I wasn't prepared for:
-MMF
-Their first time being a MMF
-MC1 carrying an unhealed trauma from non-con with a woman, and forced into an unwanted MMF by the other MC2 with his Female fk-buddy.
-MC2 insisting for MC1 to have a certain sx position including the F because it was a position he and the F had never tried, ignoring MC1's discomfort.
Unfortunately all this was quite a trigger and I couldn't read any further.
CW TW
May 21, 2024
What a strong debut!
Tyler & Hunter were amazing, loved them to bits. Both suffered a lot yet managed to hold on and find love. What started as a steamy one-night stand ended in a beautiful and vulnerable love story.
The book was a bit darker than I expected(which is not a bad thing since I love hurt in books). Behind a rather common smut-ish MM cover hides a deep, well-layered story about two young men who found each other and whose souls connected even though both of them were ready to say goodbye after each time they were together. Both afraid to come out and ruin their careers or reputation, Tyler & Hunter hid their affection and growing feelings from everyone.
I held off from giving 5 stars for two main reasons: 1) enemies turned lovers pretty fast, I think I would have enjoyed the story more if the lovers part came a bit later 2) the main conflicts of the book resolved too fast and rather easy. Overall, I really enjoyed the flow of the story.
No tears were shed, but there were parts where I was shocked by the events since I didn't see them coming at all. The secondary characters were amazing, Cal has my heart and I hope he will get his own HEA 👀 Honorable mention - Holden, the Aussie bff, who was a true rock for Ty and his brother Jamie; maybe a book about him(them🤯) also mmmmm? 😂 Just kidding(not, please give us more books!).
A great read for hockey MM lovers - almost 400 pages of hurt & comfort, sports, steamy scenes and wholesome moments.
*Thank you for the ARC*
Tyler & Hunter were amazing, loved them to bits. Both suffered a lot yet managed to hold on and find love. What started as a steamy one-night stand ended in a beautiful and vulnerable love story.
The book was a bit darker than I expected(which is not a bad thing since I love hurt in books). Behind a rather common smut-ish MM cover hides a deep, well-layered story about two young men who found each other and whose souls connected even though both of them were ready to say goodbye after each time they were together. Both afraid to come out and ruin their careers or reputation, Tyler & Hunter hid their affection and growing feelings from everyone.
I held off from giving 5 stars for two main reasons: 1) enemies turned lovers pretty fast, I think I would have enjoyed the story more if the lovers part came a bit later 2) the main conflicts of the book resolved too fast and rather easy. Overall, I really enjoyed the flow of the story.
No tears were shed, but there were parts where I was shocked by the events since I didn't see them coming at all. The secondary characters were amazing, Cal has my heart and I hope he will get his own HEA 👀 Honorable mention - Holden, the Aussie bff, who was a true rock for Ty and his brother Jamie; maybe a book about him(them🤯) also mmmmm? 😂 Just kidding(not, please give us more books!).
A great read for hockey MM lovers - almost 400 pages of hurt & comfort, sports, steamy scenes and wholesome moments.
*Thank you for the ARC*
July 8, 2024
First off I have to say that one of my favorite parts about this book was that it was developed really nicely and it wasn't just the two main characters. I love falling in love with support characters and this book has that in spades. We love a gay bestie roommate that becomes instant family and we love a FWB that is no drama and happy for her friend finding love.
Like my headline said, I thought this was going to be enemies to lovers based on their first interaction but Hunter QUICKLY changes his tune and is a simp for his Aussie teammate.
My heart broke for the drama that Tyler goes through with his mom being sick and trying to navigate being there for his brother from across the world.
There was no unnecessary relationship drama and overall I thought this book had a good mixture of spice and story. I have to say that I found the ending to be somewhat unsatisfying. I wish we could have seen a glimpse into their future but hopefully there are more books in this series with the supporting characters as the new MCs and we can see what their life is like in their new city.
While I will definitely read more by this author in the future, this book needed proofreading pretty badly.
Like my headline said, I thought this was going to be enemies to lovers based on their first interaction but Hunter QUICKLY changes his tune and is a simp for his Aussie teammate.
My heart broke for the drama that Tyler goes through with his mom being sick and trying to navigate being there for his brother from across the world.
There was no unnecessary relationship drama and overall I thought this book had a good mixture of spice and story. I have to say that I found the ending to be somewhat unsatisfying. I wish we could have seen a glimpse into their future but hopefully there are more books in this series with the supporting characters as the new MCs and we can see what their life is like in their new city.
While I will definitely read more by this author in the future, this book needed proofreading pretty badly.
December 19, 2025
wow
Okay make sure you grab your tissues for this book because this one made cry pretty good. My heart broke for both these men for all the obstacles they each had to go through. I’m glad that Hunter & Tyler both had each other cause they definitely needed it. Such an amazing book!
Okay make sure you grab your tissues for this book because this one made cry pretty good. My heart broke for both these men for all the obstacles they each had to go through. I’m glad that Hunter & Tyler both had each other cause they definitely needed it. Such an amazing book!
June 15, 2024
🏒 Thoughts 🏒
Thank you, Rory for me eARC.
This is the beginning of the series and I am so excited for the rest of this series. One More Time has me in my feels. These poor boys go through it.
Things I Loved
🏒 Hockey Romance
🏒 College Romance
🏒 Dual POV
🏒 Epilogue
🏒 Acceptance
Thank you, Rory for me eARC.
This is the beginning of the series and I am so excited for the rest of this series. One More Time has me in my feels. These poor boys go through it.
Things I Loved
🏒 Hockey Romance
🏒 College Romance
🏒 Dual POV
🏒 Epilogue
🏒 Acceptance
Read
June 13, 2024DNF 2% - I know I'm bailing out awfully quickly, but I'm not getting on with the writing style - the word reps should have been easy to avoid, and there's so much shoe-horned info of the "hello, sister" variety.
Read
June 24, 2025DNF @ 25%
This book starts out AMAZING. Tyler’s a hot shot Aussie hockey player on the verge of getting recognized when he’s invited to join the team at hockey powerhouse Boston College. It’s the perfect set up - he’s the new guy, a long way from home, and his teammates love him. Everyone except Hunter, that is. For some reason, they just don’t get along.
Hunter’s a broody, dominant guy — par for the course for a fictional college athlete. He’s as confused by the tension and animosity between him and Tyler as Tyler is, until they connect at a party following their first win and realize the tension building between them is all about attraction.
Sounds good, right? This is precisely where it lost me. Their encounter at that party brings to light several different plot elements: Hunter’s bisexuality, Tyler’s curiosity and sexual exploration, and homophobia in sports. All of these are great storylines to explore, and I anticipated they would create a complex, layered story. Unfortunately, Hunter & Tyler’s first encounter
escalates and advances them all light years into the future. It’s as if all the uncertainty and tension between them melts away with every article of clothing that’s removed, and by the end, they share emotions that seem to come from nowhere. Trust? Weren’t they just enemies? I was more than a little confused. There were other aspects of this sexual encounter that made me uncomfortable and definitely impacted how I felt about the interaction, but I don’t want to risk spoiling it for anyone by mentioning specifics.
I’m happy to see many readers were able to work through these moments and enjoy the story, but I’m not sure this one is for me. It’s possible that I might take a chance and revisit it in the future, but it’s not likely.
This book starts out AMAZING. Tyler’s a hot shot Aussie hockey player on the verge of getting recognized when he’s invited to join the team at hockey powerhouse Boston College. It’s the perfect set up - he’s the new guy, a long way from home, and his teammates love him. Everyone except Hunter, that is. For some reason, they just don’t get along.
Hunter’s a broody, dominant guy — par for the course for a fictional college athlete. He’s as confused by the tension and animosity between him and Tyler as Tyler is, until they connect at a party following their first win and realize the tension building between them is all about attraction.
Sounds good, right? This is precisely where it lost me. Their encounter at that party brings to light several different plot elements: Hunter’s bisexuality, Tyler’s curiosity and sexual exploration, and homophobia in sports. All of these are great storylines to explore, and I anticipated they would create a complex, layered story. Unfortunately, Hunter & Tyler’s first encounter
escalates and advances them all light years into the future. It’s as if all the uncertainty and tension between them melts away with every article of clothing that’s removed, and by the end, they share emotions that seem to come from nowhere. Trust? Weren’t they just enemies? I was more than a little confused. There were other aspects of this sexual encounter that made me uncomfortable and definitely impacted how I felt about the interaction, but I don’t want to risk spoiling it for anyone by mentioning specifics.
I’m happy to see many readers were able to work through these moments and enjoy the story, but I’m not sure this one is for me. It’s possible that I might take a chance and revisit it in the future, but it’s not likely.
June 8, 2024
I’m not a fan of this book.
I don’t like when MMC have sex early in a book, for me it break all the build up and the emotions. And here, not even after 60 pages they already have sex and it’s incredible… It’s Tyler first time, with a guy, give me realness not that..
Hunger giving him a pet name so quickly was a bit disturbing because not even 10 pages before he couldn’t stand Tyler.
I’m also not a fan of the writing style. It was too cliché, poor Tyler lost his mom and dad, and poor Hunter has a bad dad.
I’ve read book with the same kind of cliché and enjoyed them but this time I couldn’t do it.
I’m giving it 2 star ps because I liked how the author integrated Aussie slang into the book
I don’t like when MMC have sex early in a book, for me it break all the build up and the emotions. And here, not even after 60 pages they already have sex and it’s incredible… It’s Tyler first time, with a guy, give me realness not that..
Hunger giving him a pet name so quickly was a bit disturbing because not even 10 pages before he couldn’t stand Tyler.
I’m also not a fan of the writing style. It was too cliché, poor Tyler lost his mom and dad, and poor Hunter has a bad dad.
I’ve read book with the same kind of cliché and enjoyed them but this time I couldn’t do it.
I’m giving it 2 star ps because I liked how the author integrated Aussie slang into the book
June 8, 2024
The description of Perth as a “town” in the book blurb should have been a red flag for this Australian reader… but I read it anyway, oops.
Actually, most of the Australianisms weren’t too bad. Unfortunately, the things that were wrong were really irritating. Yak might mean talk, but hard yakka means hard work. (And since it’s a well-known brand name for workwear, it doesn’t make sense for the characters - or author - to get this wrong.) The Aussie slang felt really overdone when the Australian characters were talking to each other - in general, we exaggerate it for Americans, not tone it down. And the one that really irritated me was the idea that it’s only in Perth that Aussies don’t have crazy bogan accents. Umm, that’s not how our accents work, kthx.
OH and the big one… “Hockey” is actually a sport played on a field with a ball and players wearing shorts and t-shirts. There is a reason our national competition is called the “AIHL” and I assure you “I” does not stand for… uh… I can’t even think of anything it could possibly stand for except for ICE. I’ll keep thinking on that one.
But let’s put all that aside. Australians don’t need to read this book. It is not for us.
This book was beautifully written. The prose was very expressive. Flowery, even. Trouble is… it’s a book written from the perspective of nineteen-year-old boys who play ice hockey. It just felt so wrong. That said, I thought the dialogue was well written apart from issues mentioned above. (Yeah, I actually can’t put all that aside, sue me.)
Most of the characters seemed to have a “name buddy”.
Hunter & Holden
Callum & Colton
Kinsley & Kelsey
Jamie & Jarman
Now, in real life, people do have the same name or similar names. I mean, about half the footy players over here are named Jack, that’s just how it is. And there’s nothing wrong with representing same/similar names in fiction. But it kinda needs to be done more sparingly than this because it is so confusing.
I really liked the issues raised in this book. They were big and meaningful and real. However, I felt like everything was resolved way too easily and the repercussions/lasting trauma were a lot less significant than they should have been.
Cal was the most annoying character to ever appear in a book. Not sure how anyone put up with him. I love how one second he’s promising to keep a rein on his mouth and the next minute he’s spilling every detail of his sex life. Mhmm. Pro tip: do NOT sleep with that guy.
Kinsley and Kelsey disappeared halfway through the book. Look, it’s not that I missed them, they weren’t interesting or anything, but having them disappear made it really clear that they were purely plot devices, not really people at all. And Kinsley was connected to Hunter’s dramas, so when things happened and her name didn’t even come up… that was really weird.
Jamie was fourteen and he’d been working at a gym in Australia? No. A year too young, sorry. Hah! You thought I was over the Australian mistakes? WELL I’M NOT.
Honestly, I love my M/M ice hockey romances, and I’m all for Australian representation, and I was kinda excited to see those two things combined in one book. But while some things were done well, the errors grated on me, and overall this book was kinda disappointing.
Actually, most of the Australianisms weren’t too bad. Unfortunately, the things that were wrong were really irritating. Yak might mean talk, but hard yakka means hard work. (And since it’s a well-known brand name for workwear, it doesn’t make sense for the characters - or author - to get this wrong.) The Aussie slang felt really overdone when the Australian characters were talking to each other - in general, we exaggerate it for Americans, not tone it down. And the one that really irritated me was the idea that it’s only in Perth that Aussies don’t have crazy bogan accents. Umm, that’s not how our accents work, kthx.
OH and the big one… “Hockey” is actually a sport played on a field with a ball and players wearing shorts and t-shirts. There is a reason our national competition is called the “AIHL” and I assure you “I” does not stand for… uh… I can’t even think of anything it could possibly stand for except for ICE. I’ll keep thinking on that one.
But let’s put all that aside. Australians don’t need to read this book. It is not for us.
This book was beautifully written. The prose was very expressive. Flowery, even. Trouble is… it’s a book written from the perspective of nineteen-year-old boys who play ice hockey. It just felt so wrong. That said, I thought the dialogue was well written apart from issues mentioned above. (Yeah, I actually can’t put all that aside, sue me.)
Most of the characters seemed to have a “name buddy”.
Hunter & Holden
Callum & Colton
Kinsley & Kelsey
Jamie & Jarman
Now, in real life, people do have the same name or similar names. I mean, about half the footy players over here are named Jack, that’s just how it is. And there’s nothing wrong with representing same/similar names in fiction. But it kinda needs to be done more sparingly than this because it is so confusing.
I really liked the issues raised in this book. They were big and meaningful and real. However, I felt like everything was resolved way too easily and the repercussions/lasting trauma were a lot less significant than they should have been.
Cal was the most annoying character to ever appear in a book. Not sure how anyone put up with him. I love how one second he’s promising to keep a rein on his mouth and the next minute he’s spilling every detail of his sex life. Mhmm. Pro tip: do NOT sleep with that guy.
Kinsley and Kelsey disappeared halfway through the book. Look, it’s not that I missed them, they weren’t interesting or anything, but having them disappear made it really clear that they were purely plot devices, not really people at all. And Kinsley was connected to Hunter’s dramas, so when things happened and her name didn’t even come up… that was really weird.
Jamie was fourteen and he’d been working at a gym in Australia? No. A year too young, sorry. Hah! You thought I was over the Australian mistakes? WELL I’M NOT.
Honestly, I love my M/M ice hockey romances, and I’m all for Australian representation, and I was kinda excited to see those two things combined in one book. But while some things were done well, the errors grated on me, and overall this book was kinda disappointing.
May 24, 2024
“ I would stand next to Tyler no matter what, I’d help him weather any storm. But what if I was the storm? I could be the one to destroy everything”
How do I tell you what I think of this book? How do I tell you the amount of times I laughed, swooned and cried while reading this book? How do I tell you that the blurb the author gave us in no way prepares you for Hunter and Tyler.
Tyler moved from Perth Australia to Boston Massachusetts to attend BU to play hockey. Leaving his family was a hard decision, he had been dealing with the loss of a parent and he also has a younger brother he has been trying to protect from the struggles of dealing with a illness diagnoses in the other parent. Tyler has been captain of his hockey club team and taking care of people is his thing, but he has sacrificed taking care of himself to do that.
“It was becoming increasingly apparent to me- and I suspect to many others on the team- that Tyler Riley would go to great lengths to protect his teammates.”
Hunter is a senior on the BU hockey team with one goal, head down. He plans on finishing school and going off leaving hockey behind but the new Aussie student throws a wrench in those plans. He plays off that he doesn’t have a care in the world, but what he is hiding is so much.
Tyler and Hunter’s story was wonderful powerful and intense. They have an amazing chemistry. The “roller-coaster journey” is an understatement about what these characters go through not only what they experience together but what they experience themselves.
*** This is my warning and I want to make sure you read the content warnings before you read this book. The only mention of these are in the content warnings*****
Both Tyler and Hunter have experienced trauma, including some on page, but the author handles this with care and healing. I loved the supporting cast as well, Cal was a great bestie as was Holden, Kinsley and the teammates, and so looking forward to the next book in the series,
How do I tell you what I think of this book? How do I tell you the amount of times I laughed, swooned and cried while reading this book? How do I tell you that the blurb the author gave us in no way prepares you for Hunter and Tyler.
Tyler moved from Perth Australia to Boston Massachusetts to attend BU to play hockey. Leaving his family was a hard decision, he had been dealing with the loss of a parent and he also has a younger brother he has been trying to protect from the struggles of dealing with a illness diagnoses in the other parent. Tyler has been captain of his hockey club team and taking care of people is his thing, but he has sacrificed taking care of himself to do that.
“It was becoming increasingly apparent to me- and I suspect to many others on the team- that Tyler Riley would go to great lengths to protect his teammates.”
Hunter is a senior on the BU hockey team with one goal, head down. He plans on finishing school and going off leaving hockey behind but the new Aussie student throws a wrench in those plans. He plays off that he doesn’t have a care in the world, but what he is hiding is so much.
Tyler and Hunter’s story was wonderful powerful and intense. They have an amazing chemistry. The “roller-coaster journey” is an understatement about what these characters go through not only what they experience together but what they experience themselves.
*** This is my warning and I want to make sure you read the content warnings before you read this book. The only mention of these are in the content warnings*****
Both Tyler and Hunter have experienced trauma, including some on page, but the author handles this with care and healing. I loved the supporting cast as well, Cal was a great bestie as was Holden, Kinsley and the teammates, and so looking forward to the next book in the series,
December 13, 2024
story by Tyler and Hunter
This is a teammates to more college hockey romance, featuring Tyler Riley and Hunter Graves, and is book one in the Time On The Ice series.
Tyler is an Aussie boy from Perth, who is headed to the USA to play hockey and attend college at Boston University. He has a younger brother and a mum who is suffering with cancer, so it was a hard decision but his mum pushed him to go live his dream and try and make it to the NHL.
On Tyler’s first day at BU, he literally runs into Hunter but it’s not until he is in the locker room that he realises that guy is on the hockey team.
This book is pretty fast paced. It starts off as rivals but turns into major attraction and a hook up (in a reluctant MMF 3some to begin with). Hunter gets major heart eyes for Tyler after that and there is a few spicy scenes while they do this back and forth dance until they commit to being in an exclusive secret relationship (but it’s not that secret really).
Hunter wasn’t very likeable at the beginning but once that switch is flipped, he is loyal, protective and has major feelings for Tyler.
Tyler is a sweetheart and he goes through quite a bit in this book. I just wanted to hug him. There were some really beautiful moments with this mum and younger brother, and I may have gotten teary a few a times too.
I’m looking forward to reading the second book, but what I really want to know is what was Colton’s problem and will he get a book. Fingers crossed Cal gets a book, his insta-love and the wrong guys he was dating had me wanting to wrap him up in my arms.
Things to expect in this book are:
1st book in series
MM college hockey romance
Teammates
Hookup to more
Hurt / Comfort
Living with grief
Calls him baby
MC with dimples
Secret relationship
Spicy times
Found family
HEA
This is a teammates to more college hockey romance, featuring Tyler Riley and Hunter Graves, and is book one in the Time On The Ice series.
Tyler is an Aussie boy from Perth, who is headed to the USA to play hockey and attend college at Boston University. He has a younger brother and a mum who is suffering with cancer, so it was a hard decision but his mum pushed him to go live his dream and try and make it to the NHL.
On Tyler’s first day at BU, he literally runs into Hunter but it’s not until he is in the locker room that he realises that guy is on the hockey team.
This book is pretty fast paced. It starts off as rivals but turns into major attraction and a hook up (in a reluctant MMF 3some to begin with). Hunter gets major heart eyes for Tyler after that and there is a few spicy scenes while they do this back and forth dance until they commit to being in an exclusive secret relationship (but it’s not that secret really).
Hunter wasn’t very likeable at the beginning but once that switch is flipped, he is loyal, protective and has major feelings for Tyler.
Tyler is a sweetheart and he goes through quite a bit in this book. I just wanted to hug him. There were some really beautiful moments with this mum and younger brother, and I may have gotten teary a few a times too.
I’m looking forward to reading the second book, but what I really want to know is what was Colton’s problem and will he get a book. Fingers crossed Cal gets a book, his insta-love and the wrong guys he was dating had me wanting to wrap him up in my arms.
Things to expect in this book are:
1st book in series
MM college hockey romance
Teammates
Hookup to more
Hurt / Comfort
Living with grief
Calls him baby
MC with dimples
Secret relationship
Spicy times
Found family
HEA
May 25, 2024
🏒🩵 ARC REVIEW 🩵 One More Time by @rory.lector.author 🩵
As soon as Rory started promoting this book, I knew I wanted to read ARC. So I pretty much begged for one 🤣🤣
Here’s the thing with debuts. You never know what you’re going to get. But it should never keep you from discovering new voices. And I’m HAPPY that I’ve discovered one 🩵🩵
Rory’s style of writing sucked me in from the very beginning. The pace was great with just the right amount of humor and tension. I wanted to know these characters, their past and their story.
The hockey scenes were really good— authentic and engaging. You could really feel the energy and I just love a sports romance that actually has sports in it!
And the boys! OMG do I love Tyler and Hunter. Totally opposites but so perfect for each other. The enemies part of their relationship faded pretty fast, but since I don’t like that trope, I was good (read:great!) with that 🩵
The character building is strong. Rory does a great job at making you fall in love with these two. Their relationship has a few ups and downs on the way but it’s never too angsty.
Overall, this was a really great debut! The writing really sucked me in and the two MCs just had my heart from the get go! I love how Rory stays true to the genre with Well-written hockey scenes and the cute and fun banter in the team. 🩵🩵🏒🏒
I don’t want to spoil anything but there was one thing that threw me off a little. It’s my personal preference when it comes to the MM genre. However, it doesn’t keep me from giving this book 5 solid stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ because when you come out strong with a debut this amazing, you fully deserve them!
Congrats Rory! Welcome in MM romance. I think you’ve arrived! 🩵🩵🩵
As soon as Rory started promoting this book, I knew I wanted to read ARC. So I pretty much begged for one 🤣🤣
Here’s the thing with debuts. You never know what you’re going to get. But it should never keep you from discovering new voices. And I’m HAPPY that I’ve discovered one 🩵🩵
Rory’s style of writing sucked me in from the very beginning. The pace was great with just the right amount of humor and tension. I wanted to know these characters, their past and their story.
The hockey scenes were really good— authentic and engaging. You could really feel the energy and I just love a sports romance that actually has sports in it!
And the boys! OMG do I love Tyler and Hunter. Totally opposites but so perfect for each other. The enemies part of their relationship faded pretty fast, but since I don’t like that trope, I was good (read:great!) with that 🩵
The character building is strong. Rory does a great job at making you fall in love with these two. Their relationship has a few ups and downs on the way but it’s never too angsty.
Overall, this was a really great debut! The writing really sucked me in and the two MCs just had my heart from the get go! I love how Rory stays true to the genre with Well-written hockey scenes and the cute and fun banter in the team. 🩵🩵🏒🏒
I don’t want to spoil anything but there was one thing that threw me off a little. It’s my personal preference when it comes to the MM genre. However, it doesn’t keep me from giving this book 5 solid stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ because when you come out strong with a debut this amazing, you fully deserve them!
Congrats Rory! Welcome in MM romance. I think you’ve arrived! 🩵🩵🩵
June 1, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
“One More Time” by Rory Lector was really the homey romance I didn’t know I needed. Because it was JUST a hockey romance. It was full of secrets and insecurities and heart wrenching love. I have been patiently waiting for this ARC to hit my kindle for what feels like a thousand years and I will say it did not disappoint!
For a debut book in a standalone series, I am HOOKED! Bi-awakenings are at the very tippy top of my favorite tropes list and this book did it some major justice! The cute Aussie hockey player gets with the playboy of the team in secret because he’s not totally sure he’s into dudes?! I MEAN HELLO. It starts out very “let me be your experiment” but then morphs into something with deep, meaningful feelings that neither MC thought would happen. Tyler and Hunter really change their DNA when things start to click for the two of them.. I really enjoyed reading their shift from “well, just one more time then no more” to “i need him always and forever.”
Now these two have INTENSE feelings but damn if their HEA wasn’t hard won. Because yall… we had to wait SOOO long for those three words to be shared between the two of them. Like, we as the readers are seeing it unfold one chapter at a time, but the characters are slow to pick up on it 🤣 BUT, I will say it almost feels like a little secret between us and Lector!
The pace was good, the inner dialogues were well written and laid out, the MCs had their own stuff going on under the surface revealing that their lives aren’t as perfect as they seem, and the spice was SPICING! Lector really has a good thing going with this series start. I really enjoyed reading Ty and Hunt’s story and it makes me SUPER excited for book 2!
If you love a secret, bi-awakening, enemies to lovers; “okay, but only this one time” type of romance with hockey gods mixed in, then this is for you! It was heartwarming and heartbreaking all at the same time and I was really rooting for these two from start to finish. So glad they got their happy ending 🤍🩵
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒊𝒏𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆:
✨ MM romance
✨ Bi-awakening
✨ Hockey romance
✨ Hurt/comfort
✨ Found family
✨ “Who did that to you?”
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Enemies-ish to lovers
🌶️🌶️.5
“One More Time” by Rory Lector was really the homey romance I didn’t know I needed. Because it was JUST a hockey romance. It was full of secrets and insecurities and heart wrenching love. I have been patiently waiting for this ARC to hit my kindle for what feels like a thousand years and I will say it did not disappoint!
For a debut book in a standalone series, I am HOOKED! Bi-awakenings are at the very tippy top of my favorite tropes list and this book did it some major justice! The cute Aussie hockey player gets with the playboy of the team in secret because he’s not totally sure he’s into dudes?! I MEAN HELLO. It starts out very “let me be your experiment” but then morphs into something with deep, meaningful feelings that neither MC thought would happen. Tyler and Hunter really change their DNA when things start to click for the two of them.. I really enjoyed reading their shift from “well, just one more time then no more” to “i need him always and forever.”
Now these two have INTENSE feelings but damn if their HEA wasn’t hard won. Because yall… we had to wait SOOO long for those three words to be shared between the two of them. Like, we as the readers are seeing it unfold one chapter at a time, but the characters are slow to pick up on it 🤣 BUT, I will say it almost feels like a little secret between us and Lector!
The pace was good, the inner dialogues were well written and laid out, the MCs had their own stuff going on under the surface revealing that their lives aren’t as perfect as they seem, and the spice was SPICING! Lector really has a good thing going with this series start. I really enjoyed reading Ty and Hunt’s story and it makes me SUPER excited for book 2!
If you love a secret, bi-awakening, enemies to lovers; “okay, but only this one time” type of romance with hockey gods mixed in, then this is for you! It was heartwarming and heartbreaking all at the same time and I was really rooting for these two from start to finish. So glad they got their happy ending 🤍🩵
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒊𝒏𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆:
✨ MM romance
✨ Bi-awakening
✨ Hockey romance
✨ Hurt/comfort
✨ Found family
✨ “Who did that to you?”
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Enemies-ish to lovers
May 27, 2024
One More Time starts as an enemies to lovers hockey novel, but it is much more than that.
Tyler Riley has traveled half way across the world to play hockey for BU and start his quest to play in the NHL. Leaving his family is the hardest thing he’s ever done, but his mom all but demands he go. His entry to the team is pretty seamless except for the broody teammate who seems to delight in teasing him and making him uncomfortable.
Hunter Graves can’t help who he is. He knows he can be a jerk, but it’s in his DNA. But something about his new teammate Aussie has him doing, saying, and feeling things he never has before.
Their physical relationship gets off to an unconventional start, and I wasn’t sure the direction the book would take. But I loved how sweet they were together. And as they both reveal bits of their painful pasts (Hunter much more reluctantly) you find yourself cheering for their HEA even more.
Tyler and Hunter are complicated men - which I love.
The backdrop of hockey is great - the training and game scenes are urgent and intense. The banter and bonding was delightful.
And the secondary characters are first rate. Tyler’s family, teammates Mouse and Jarman, Hunter’s friend/occasional hookup Kingsley, and Tyler’s extroverted roomie Cal. I really want Cal to get his own book and someone who appreciates how fabulous he is.
Aussie and Baby - I enjoy when nicknames are done well.
The writing pulled me in and the story went places I wasn’t expecting. No spoilers, but go into blind and enjoy the ride. A great debut - highly recommended. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tyler Riley has traveled half way across the world to play hockey for BU and start his quest to play in the NHL. Leaving his family is the hardest thing he’s ever done, but his mom all but demands he go. His entry to the team is pretty seamless except for the broody teammate who seems to delight in teasing him and making him uncomfortable.
Hunter Graves can’t help who he is. He knows he can be a jerk, but it’s in his DNA. But something about his new teammate Aussie has him doing, saying, and feeling things he never has before.
Their physical relationship gets off to an unconventional start, and I wasn’t sure the direction the book would take. But I loved how sweet they were together. And as they both reveal bits of their painful pasts (Hunter much more reluctantly) you find yourself cheering for their HEA even more.
Tyler and Hunter are complicated men - which I love.
The backdrop of hockey is great - the training and game scenes are urgent and intense. The banter and bonding was delightful.
And the secondary characters are first rate. Tyler’s family, teammates Mouse and Jarman, Hunter’s friend/occasional hookup Kingsley, and Tyler’s extroverted roomie Cal. I really want Cal to get his own book and someone who appreciates how fabulous he is.
Aussie and Baby - I enjoy when nicknames are done well.
The writing pulled me in and the story went places I wasn’t expecting. No spoilers, but go into blind and enjoy the ride. A great debut - highly recommended. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 13, 2024
📰 Review: Engaging debut novel about hockey team mates falling in love while dealing with serious family issues
❤️ Rating: 5/5
🔥 Spice: 3.5/5
🚩 Check TWs
ONE MORE TIME (book 1, Time On The Ice series) by Rory Lector takes you inside the world of a university ice hockey team, where NHL dreams and sexual identity seem at odds for the new guy, Tyler Riley.
Fresh from Australia, Tyler bumps into our other MMC and senior team player, Hunter Graves, while headed to the school's admissions building.
Things remain 'bumpy' off the ice between these two in this MM romance for a while but Tyler and Hunter are magic together in the game.
While I don't know too much about hockey, I felt like I was in the action alongside our MMCs and their team mates, as Rory Lector did a great job of describing plays and in-game moves.
One team mate seemed like he'd be a bigger problem later on in the book but that never played out. This aside, I liked the hints and, in one couple's case, outright confirmation, that some of the other characters will be getting their own books in the series.
Both young men - Tyler is 19 and Hunter is 23 - are also grappling with serious family issues. These include death of a parent and physical abuse, so check those trigger warnings before you proceed. To me, the issues were handled with care by the author and I loved seeing how Tyler and Hunter stepped up for each other when needed.
I'm looking forward to updates on Aussie and Boston in future books in this series.
❤️ Rating: 5/5
🔥 Spice: 3.5/5
🚩 Check TWs
ONE MORE TIME (book 1, Time On The Ice series) by Rory Lector takes you inside the world of a university ice hockey team, where NHL dreams and sexual identity seem at odds for the new guy, Tyler Riley.
Fresh from Australia, Tyler bumps into our other MMC and senior team player, Hunter Graves, while headed to the school's admissions building.
Things remain 'bumpy' off the ice between these two in this MM romance for a while but Tyler and Hunter are magic together in the game.
While I don't know too much about hockey, I felt like I was in the action alongside our MMCs and their team mates, as Rory Lector did a great job of describing plays and in-game moves.
One team mate seemed like he'd be a bigger problem later on in the book but that never played out. This aside, I liked the hints and, in one couple's case, outright confirmation, that some of the other characters will be getting their own books in the series.
Both young men - Tyler is 19 and Hunter is 23 - are also grappling with serious family issues. These include death of a parent and physical abuse, so check those trigger warnings before you proceed. To me, the issues were handled with care by the author and I loved seeing how Tyler and Hunter stepped up for each other when needed.
I'm looking forward to updates on Aussie and Boston in future books in this series.
May 31, 2024
This was a really fun debut from Rory Lector. Who knew we’d enjoy an Aussie hockey player so much? To be honest, I’ll enjoy most sports romances, so there was no doubt I’d love this story. Is it that different from all the hockey romances already out there? No. But the characters are so lovable that I think it’s one to add to the list of good sports romances available to us!
Tyler and Hunter are from different worlds - literally, given one is a sunny Australian and the other is a brooding Bostonian. They’re pretty much opposites in everything but their love for the ice, and while they start out hating one another, they can’t doubt the crackling sexual tension between them. All they need is one night - for Tyler to explore his sexuality, and for Hunter to get over this weird obsession. What can go wrong? Turns out it’s plenty.
I really liked the characters and their completely different personalities. It was so satisfying to see Tyler’s bright and happy disposition thaw the ice that was Hunter’s exterior. But both had more issues under the surface than we could ever expect… I mean, these two had to go through a lot to get to their HEA. Think of something horrid that could happen to a person, and it likely happened to one or both of them. That’s probably one thing that knocked a star off for me: it felt like every kind of conflict was in this story - child abuse, loss of a family member, struggles with sexuality, and hidden relationships in sport, seriously it’s all in there, and a few of them probably could’ve gone amiss. We were already rooting for them to get their happy ending, I just felt really bad for them for all the mountains that they kept having to climb over.
The spice was super hot. Rory Lector knows how to write a hot scene, so I will say I did enjoy the hotter moments between the two as well as the more tender. As a whole, could the book use one last bit of editing/proofreading? Yes. Maybe that’s because I had an ARC cope and this will be rectified when published. Because of this, I’m not necessarily letting this reflect my review at this time. But it’s something for the author to consider if the ARC copy is the one that’s going for publishing.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and I look forward to reading more on Rory Lector’s brand new universe!
*received an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review*
Tyler and Hunter are from different worlds - literally, given one is a sunny Australian and the other is a brooding Bostonian. They’re pretty much opposites in everything but their love for the ice, and while they start out hating one another, they can’t doubt the crackling sexual tension between them. All they need is one night - for Tyler to explore his sexuality, and for Hunter to get over this weird obsession. What can go wrong? Turns out it’s plenty.
I really liked the characters and their completely different personalities. It was so satisfying to see Tyler’s bright and happy disposition thaw the ice that was Hunter’s exterior. But both had more issues under the surface than we could ever expect… I mean, these two had to go through a lot to get to their HEA. Think of something horrid that could happen to a person, and it likely happened to one or both of them. That’s probably one thing that knocked a star off for me: it felt like every kind of conflict was in this story - child abuse, loss of a family member, struggles with sexuality, and hidden relationships in sport, seriously it’s all in there, and a few of them probably could’ve gone amiss. We were already rooting for them to get their happy ending, I just felt really bad for them for all the mountains that they kept having to climb over.
The spice was super hot. Rory Lector knows how to write a hot scene, so I will say I did enjoy the hotter moments between the two as well as the more tender. As a whole, could the book use one last bit of editing/proofreading? Yes. Maybe that’s because I had an ARC cope and this will be rectified when published. Because of this, I’m not necessarily letting this reflect my review at this time. But it’s something for the author to consider if the ARC copy is the one that’s going for publishing.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and I look forward to reading more on Rory Lector’s brand new universe!
*received an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review*
July 10, 2024
I am amazed this was a debut by Rory Lector! This story was so good and very well written. It was emotional, tragic, fun, and sexy. I LOVED the main characters, Tyler and Hunter, all the supporting characters, and all the events that led to their very hard fought HFN ending. I did not want to say goodbye and luckily, we don't have to as Rory will be writing another in this world with two supporting characters getting their story! HOW EXCITING! This is a enemies to lovers, forced proximity (teammates), hurt comfort, awakening, MM hockey romance and you'll get all the feels and so many times where your heart is just aching for these characters.
Friendship. Family. Love of hockey (the best sport there is!). Drama. Tragedy. Self-discovery. Sex appeal. Love. All these things were woven into Hunter and Tylers story and I was hooked from page one. Tyler is the sweetest. He has moved across the world from Australia to Boston to embark on a promising college/hockey journey as an international exchange student. He is very close with his mother and younger brother and lost his father tragically a few years prior. He is the supporter of his family so leaving to pursue his dreams is not something done lightly. He has also struggled with his sexuality and is very reserved while still being someone people want to be-friend and very much look up to. He is an instant hit with the hockey team and tips the ice in his favor without even trying. I had a lot of respect for Tyler and that respect only grew through the whole story. He goes through a lot but he's a brave and selfless individual who deserves to be happy. Hunter is the mouthy rude American Tyler runs into (literally) the first day at BU (Boston University). He is cocky and a tad judgy of the new Aussie everyone seems to love. Hunter has demons and he has built up walls even his closest of friends can't get through. He is also hiding a big secret and fears the one person who is supposed to love him unconditionally. I really loved Hunter because he has the bad boy protector vibe and at first you want to warn Tyler off but then it becomes clear that Hunter needs love just as much. He also has the sex appeal that draws men and woman in alike and it's really no surprise when Tyler gets caught in his flirty smooth-talking web.
These guys had some major instant "hate you but want you" chemistry. I could not get enough of them. Even though Hunter seems to dislike the Aussie and even though Tyler keeps shooting Mr. Boston's attempts to rile him up down it doesn't take long for these two to become more. Their plan to hook up and make it a "one time" deal goes right out the window when Tyler finally gets the thing he has been searching for which is feeling safe and set free from the past while Hunter gets to care for someone and experience emotions that have been just out of reach for him. He has trust issues, understandable with what kind of man his father is, but he can't stay away from Tyler and Tyler is so drawn to Hunter that their sexy encounters become more and more. They are explosive. No point in fighting it they seem to beat the odds over and over again. They are smooth as silk on and off the ice and I enjoyed their connection immensely. I am kind of still obsessed with them and really hope everyone loves and appreciates them and their story as much as they deserve.
The plot, the happy moments, traumatic events, and all the supporting characters really rounded out this story. There was not a dull moment. There was rarely a time where I thought it was too much or not enough. I am so happy to have been able to read and review this for Lector and as a debut I think...it just might be one of the best I have read. I will say that it was a bit jumpy at times with timeline and some of the dialogue bordered on overdone. But the emotions and the love I felt while reading this far outweighed the little details that may have just missed the mark.
I am so looking forward to more in this series and from Rory! Get ready to feel the feels, maybe even cry a bit, and have a full heart by the very last page. I am giving this a 5...it was more a 4.5 for me but I really think that this deserves the bump up considering how successful this debut was for my romance reading heart.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book provided by the author.
Friendship. Family. Love of hockey (the best sport there is!). Drama. Tragedy. Self-discovery. Sex appeal. Love. All these things were woven into Hunter and Tylers story and I was hooked from page one. Tyler is the sweetest. He has moved across the world from Australia to Boston to embark on a promising college/hockey journey as an international exchange student. He is very close with his mother and younger brother and lost his father tragically a few years prior. He is the supporter of his family so leaving to pursue his dreams is not something done lightly. He has also struggled with his sexuality and is very reserved while still being someone people want to be-friend and very much look up to. He is an instant hit with the hockey team and tips the ice in his favor without even trying. I had a lot of respect for Tyler and that respect only grew through the whole story. He goes through a lot but he's a brave and selfless individual who deserves to be happy. Hunter is the mouthy rude American Tyler runs into (literally) the first day at BU (Boston University). He is cocky and a tad judgy of the new Aussie everyone seems to love. Hunter has demons and he has built up walls even his closest of friends can't get through. He is also hiding a big secret and fears the one person who is supposed to love him unconditionally. I really loved Hunter because he has the bad boy protector vibe and at first you want to warn Tyler off but then it becomes clear that Hunter needs love just as much. He also has the sex appeal that draws men and woman in alike and it's really no surprise when Tyler gets caught in his flirty smooth-talking web.
These guys had some major instant "hate you but want you" chemistry. I could not get enough of them. Even though Hunter seems to dislike the Aussie and even though Tyler keeps shooting Mr. Boston's attempts to rile him up down it doesn't take long for these two to become more. Their plan to hook up and make it a "one time" deal goes right out the window when Tyler finally gets the thing he has been searching for which is feeling safe and set free from the past while Hunter gets to care for someone and experience emotions that have been just out of reach for him. He has trust issues, understandable with what kind of man his father is, but he can't stay away from Tyler and Tyler is so drawn to Hunter that their sexy encounters become more and more. They are explosive. No point in fighting it they seem to beat the odds over and over again. They are smooth as silk on and off the ice and I enjoyed their connection immensely. I am kind of still obsessed with them and really hope everyone loves and appreciates them and their story as much as they deserve.
The plot, the happy moments, traumatic events, and all the supporting characters really rounded out this story. There was not a dull moment. There was rarely a time where I thought it was too much or not enough. I am so happy to have been able to read and review this for Lector and as a debut I think...it just might be one of the best I have read. I will say that it was a bit jumpy at times with timeline and some of the dialogue bordered on overdone. But the emotions and the love I felt while reading this far outweighed the little details that may have just missed the mark.
I am so looking forward to more in this series and from Rory! Get ready to feel the feels, maybe even cry a bit, and have a full heart by the very last page. I am giving this a 5...it was more a 4.5 for me but I really think that this deserves the bump up considering how successful this debut was for my romance reading heart.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book provided by the author.
May 21, 2024
ARC Review
One More Time by Rory Lector
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was a fantastic debut novel! It had all of the things I love in a book. Hot hockey players, angst, all the emotions, great side characters, and Taylor Swift references 😉
I loved both of the MCs but Hunter was top tier. Something about a broody playboy does it for me every-time. Especially when they are smitten after one time with the other MC.
I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a great hockey romance that isn’t just a fluffy light read. This book was highly emotional but the 2 do get their HEA 🩷
I can’t wait to read the next book about Jarman & Mouse (I love me a friends to lovers, especially when one of them is clearly oblivious) 😂 I also can’t wait to see what other characters end up with books in this series! My poor sweet Cal better find him a good man soon!
One More Time by Rory Lector
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was a fantastic debut novel! It had all of the things I love in a book. Hot hockey players, angst, all the emotions, great side characters, and Taylor Swift references 😉
I loved both of the MCs but Hunter was top tier. Something about a broody playboy does it for me every-time. Especially when they are smitten after one time with the other MC.
I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a great hockey romance that isn’t just a fluffy light read. This book was highly emotional but the 2 do get their HEA 🩷
I can’t wait to read the next book about Jarman & Mouse (I love me a friends to lovers, especially when one of them is clearly oblivious) 😂 I also can’t wait to see what other characters end up with books in this series! My poor sweet Cal better find him a good man soon!
June 13, 2024
"He makes me feel...a whole lot. But he's my calm in the storm."
Get cozy...and have a box of tissues handy, you'll need them !!! Beautiful debut novel !! Loved the characters (especially loved the Aussie rep !!!) and the friends/found family. And I loved the world building/setting - this is actually a hockey story where you actually get to be immersed into the game as well .... brilliantly done !! Now, for the relationship between the MC's - yes, started out as somewhat antagonistic between them but at every "one more time", a bit of that emotional wall comes down. This story will certainly take you on an emotional ride....heart-breakingly so....and just when you think no more...there is. Does end on HEA for them ....but some bits are unresolved, which I'd imagine will pick up in 2nd book.
Get cozy...and have a box of tissues handy, you'll need them !!! Beautiful debut novel !! Loved the characters (especially loved the Aussie rep !!!) and the friends/found family. And I loved the world building/setting - this is actually a hockey story where you actually get to be immersed into the game as well .... brilliantly done !! Now, for the relationship between the MC's - yes, started out as somewhat antagonistic between them but at every "one more time", a bit of that emotional wall comes down. This story will certainly take you on an emotional ride....heart-breakingly so....and just when you think no more...there is. Does end on HEA for them ....but some bits are unresolved, which I'd imagine will pick up in 2nd book.
December 14, 2024
Review: One More Time by Rory Lector
This book has so much heart, with a solid sprinkle of Aussie flavour. I enjoyed all the Aussie-isms so much. Tyler and Jamie’s relationship as brothers absolutely warmed my heart, and I was sobbing (no exaggeration) during that phone call about their mum. And don’t even get me started on all the other moments that broke me in the best way possible.
The caretaking in this book was just gorgeous, and it’s beautifully written from start to finish. I also have to shout out Tyler and Hunter’s besties, Holden and Kinsley, who absolutely stole my heart.
It’s a heartfelt, tender, and spicy hockey MM romance that’ll have you crying a few tears.
What to expect:
Hockey
Teammates-to-lovers
Bi rep
Aussie slang
“Baby”/”Babe”
Fast burn
Freckles x dimples
Hurt/comfort
This book has so much heart, with a solid sprinkle of Aussie flavour. I enjoyed all the Aussie-isms so much. Tyler and Jamie’s relationship as brothers absolutely warmed my heart, and I was sobbing (no exaggeration) during that phone call about their mum. And don’t even get me started on all the other moments that broke me in the best way possible.
The caretaking in this book was just gorgeous, and it’s beautifully written from start to finish. I also have to shout out Tyler and Hunter’s besties, Holden and Kinsley, who absolutely stole my heart.
It’s a heartfelt, tender, and spicy hockey MM romance that’ll have you crying a few tears.
What to expect:
Hockey
Teammates-to-lovers
Bi rep
Aussie slang
“Baby”/”Babe”
Fast burn
Freckles x dimples
Hurt/comfort
June 12, 2024
This was a great debut novel! I love taking chances on new authors, and I was super happy with this one. The story had interesting characters and a complex storyline. There were several subplots going on, and some wonderful secondary characters as well. Since the MCs were in college I wish we would have seen a bit more of that, especially how they were balancing hockey, class, and their relationship. There was tons of emotion, some good angst, and plenty of steam. I'm excited for this series to continue and can't wait to see what else this author gives us!
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review
July 27, 2024
You could spot from a mile away that this book is a debut work. The story’s structure needs a lot of editing, same issue with the pacing, and all the awkward attempts at exposition dump were just too glaringly obvious to ignore, which only got exacerbated by the unnatural dialogues between characters who were supposed to be thicker than thieves and should’ve known ages ago about all the details being hashed out on the page once again. Not that the inner monologues were that much better written, honestly.
This was.. not a great read, which is a real shame because the premise for the story should’ve made it a slam dunk. Onto the dropped pile it goes.
This was.. not a great read, which is a real shame because the premise for the story should’ve made it a slam dunk. Onto the dropped pile it goes.
January 14, 2025
There were some parts that bothered me, like the excessive and too early use of the word "baby" (which in general I don't understand how it is a term of endearment? Like calling someone "my cute toddler" is a bit disturbing").
And I didn't like the obsessiveness of their relationship either, Tyler (who is presented throughout the book as if he sacrifices for his family all the time, although there was no evidence of this) prefers to stay with his partner instead of being with his brothers and friends.
The same brother he is supposedly very protective of.
But all in all a good book, and I'm continuing to the next couple
And I didn't like the obsessiveness of their relationship either, Tyler (who is presented throughout the book as if he sacrifices for his family all the time, although there was no evidence of this) prefers to stay with his partner instead of being with his brothers and friends.
The same brother he is supposedly very protective of.
But all in all a good book, and I'm continuing to the next couple
May 20, 2024
I don’t even know what to say, this was an amazing debut novel.
Tyler and Hunter go through so much in this book. They’re both incredibly strong and I love them so much. Their chemistry and banter was just great! The side characters were *chef kiss.* I loved Tyler’s little brother Jamie, his roommate Cal and Hunter’s friend Kinsey and his teammates Jarman and Mouse (whose story is next!!) This book was just so so good and I can’t wait for the rest of the series!
Tyler and Hunter go through so much in this book. They’re both incredibly strong and I love them so much. Their chemistry and banter was just great! The side characters were *chef kiss.* I loved Tyler’s little brother Jamie, his roommate Cal and Hunter’s friend Kinsey and his teammates Jarman and Mouse (whose story is next!!) This book was just so so good and I can’t wait for the rest of the series!
June 8, 2024
Really interesting story with lots of excellent double hurt/comfort. Juat a few points - I grew up in Perth, I wouldn't define it as the smallish country town it seems to be portrayed as, and not all the Aussie slang is quite correct. Kinsley was a big part of the story in the first section and then suddenly disappeared. Hunter's father didn't deserve the leniency. The star of the book was Hunter - willing to give up everything for multiple people. I really look forward to the next book.
June 9, 2024
A great start to a new series. This is the story of Tyler and Hunter from different and difficult backgrounds, working through their struggles. It is sometimes quite angsty but all necessary in this beautifully emotional tale. This is a MM hockey romance and like most sports adds to the difficulties requiring gay men and women to keep their sexuality and love as a secret. Overall it was a very enjoyable book and I am looking forward to future books in the series.
June 10, 2024
4.5 stars
ARC
I love reading debut books because it gives me a sense of continuing to read that author’s work or simply not—if it’s not for me. I can say that I will be reading this author’s future releases. For a debute this was pretty good. The writing had me enthralled from the beginning. I loved the characters. Who doesn’t love a good sports romance book? I think Rory did pretty well writing a hockey romance.
ARC
I love reading debut books because it gives me a sense of continuing to read that author’s work or simply not—if it’s not for me. I can say that I will be reading this author’s future releases. For a debute this was pretty good. The writing had me enthralled from the beginning. I loved the characters. Who doesn’t love a good sports romance book? I think Rory did pretty well writing a hockey romance.
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