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Watkins Glen Gladiators #6
Playing the Man
If only getting back into playing shape were as easy as falling in love…
Tanner LaBrie—aka Fossie to his teammates—is feeling every bit of his thirty-eight years. His shoulder aches when it’s cold, his arms need to be longer to see the crossword puzzle app on his phone, and his knees are incredibly unhappy about the abuse they’ve taken. During one of the final games of the regular season, one of his weary joints decides to give way. The need for surgery is not a surprising one for Tanner. He’s been putting it off for years, but escaping the knife is not an option now. Post-surgery rehab is a son-of-a-gun, but if Tanner is anything, it’s stubborn. Just ask any of his ex-boyfriends. So when his therapist suggests finding a local yoga group, he scoffs at first. Unsure of how he would fit in with the gals in leotards, he nonetheless signs up for a class at his local gym where the teacher is not at all the person listed on the signup form. Not that Fossie is complaining when Keyshaun Williams, the enigmatic and sexy gym owner, shows up with a floral exercise mat, some whale song CDs, and a smile that nearly erases how out of place the defenseman feels.
Keyshaun Williams is living the life he has always dreamed of…for the most part. His new business is a huge success, his family is happy and healthy, and his sister—the only somewhat straight triplet—is a few weeks away from giving birth to twins while his brother is about to open a franchise of Williams Wellness in Buffalo. Yep, life is looking pretty darn great for the former Army dietician/Golden Gloves boxer. Great aside from the quiet house he goes home to every night. Being a few years on the other side of thirty has him seeking someone to settle down with, raise a family, maybe adopt some dogs or raise some goats. Heck, maybe dogs and goats. A man could dream, right? And yes, dreamy would describe the towering, mature, stunningly attractive D-man for the local hockey team who has, it seems, signed up for a senior yoga class that Keyshaun is leading as his sister nests and eats far too many chocolate-covered jalapenos. Tanner LaBrie ticks all his boxes as well as a few he didn’t even know he had. Maybe those long looks the hockey player has been shooting his way for months means Tanner is interested in more than achieving the perfect camel pose?
Playing the Man is a low-angst, small-town, queer hockey romance starring a rehabbing hockey player, a personable gym owner, a fitness center filled with snoopy seniors, meddling but well-meaning siblings, rescue dogs, tons of namaste, and one barktastic happy ever after.
Tanner LaBrie—aka Fossie to his teammates—is feeling every bit of his thirty-eight years. His shoulder aches when it’s cold, his arms need to be longer to see the crossword puzzle app on his phone, and his knees are incredibly unhappy about the abuse they’ve taken. During one of the final games of the regular season, one of his weary joints decides to give way. The need for surgery is not a surprising one for Tanner. He’s been putting it off for years, but escaping the knife is not an option now. Post-surgery rehab is a son-of-a-gun, but if Tanner is anything, it’s stubborn. Just ask any of his ex-boyfriends. So when his therapist suggests finding a local yoga group, he scoffs at first. Unsure of how he would fit in with the gals in leotards, he nonetheless signs up for a class at his local gym where the teacher is not at all the person listed on the signup form. Not that Fossie is complaining when Keyshaun Williams, the enigmatic and sexy gym owner, shows up with a floral exercise mat, some whale song CDs, and a smile that nearly erases how out of place the defenseman feels.
Keyshaun Williams is living the life he has always dreamed of…for the most part. His new business is a huge success, his family is happy and healthy, and his sister—the only somewhat straight triplet—is a few weeks away from giving birth to twins while his brother is about to open a franchise of Williams Wellness in Buffalo. Yep, life is looking pretty darn great for the former Army dietician/Golden Gloves boxer. Great aside from the quiet house he goes home to every night. Being a few years on the other side of thirty has him seeking someone to settle down with, raise a family, maybe adopt some dogs or raise some goats. Heck, maybe dogs and goats. A man could dream, right? And yes, dreamy would describe the towering, mature, stunningly attractive D-man for the local hockey team who has, it seems, signed up for a senior yoga class that Keyshaun is leading as his sister nests and eats far too many chocolate-covered jalapenos. Tanner LaBrie ticks all his boxes as well as a few he didn’t even know he had. Maybe those long looks the hockey player has been shooting his way for months means Tanner is interested in more than achieving the perfect camel pose?
Playing the Man is a low-angst, small-town, queer hockey romance starring a rehabbing hockey player, a personable gym owner, a fitness center filled with snoopy seniors, meddling but well-meaning siblings, rescue dogs, tons of namaste, and one barktastic happy ever after.
- GenresM M RomanceRomance
197 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 21, 2024
About the author
V.L. Locey
213 books733 followersV.L. Locey loves worn jeans, Dr. Who, Torchwood, belly laughs, yoga, reading and writing lusty tales, walking, Greek mythology, the New York Rangers, comic books, and coffee. (Not necessarily in that order.)
She shares her life with her husband, her daughter, one dog, two cats, and a flock of assorted domestic fowl.
When not writing lusty tales, she can be found enjoying her day with her menagerie in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, fresh cup of java in hand.
Sign up for my newsletter here: http://vllocey.com/Newsletter
She shares her life with her husband, her daughter, one dog, two cats, and a flock of assorted domestic fowl.
When not writing lusty tales, she can be found enjoying her day with her menagerie in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, fresh cup of java in hand.
Sign up for my newsletter here: http://vllocey.com/Newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
September 19, 2024
3.5*
I liked this book but there wasn't much really going on outside of the romance itself.
Which is great for if you're just wanting a nice little easy read without any angst and a couple of lovely men who just click.
I'd have liked something to give a bit more tension personally, but that doesn't mean that the narrative isn't a really engaging one, both Tanner and Keyshaun are lovingly depicted, well-rounded characters.
There's also a fair bit of Tanner's brother Rudy, he's a riot, as well as a catch up at the end with Liam and Tarcy's wedding, plus my favourite chatterbox Phil Greco also has a bit of page time, so it was nice to catch up with the Gladiators.
Otherwise, if you're looking for a chilled read where you know there won't be any surprises or annoying Third Act break-ups, this is the book for you.
I firmly believed in the relationship between the two men, it's steamy when needed and super sweet at all other times and the growth occurs organically as they get to know each other more.
#ARC kindly received from the author, I am voluntarily leaving a review
I liked this book but there wasn't much really going on outside of the romance itself.
Which is great for if you're just wanting a nice little easy read without any angst and a couple of lovely men who just click.
I'd have liked something to give a bit more tension personally, but that doesn't mean that the narrative isn't a really engaging one, both Tanner and Keyshaun are lovingly depicted, well-rounded characters.
There's also a fair bit of Tanner's brother Rudy, he's a riot, as well as a catch up at the end with Liam and Tarcy's wedding, plus my favourite chatterbox Phil Greco also has a bit of page time, so it was nice to catch up with the Gladiators.
Otherwise, if you're looking for a chilled read where you know there won't be any surprises or annoying Third Act break-ups, this is the book for you.
I firmly believed in the relationship between the two men, it's steamy when needed and super sweet at all other times and the growth occurs organically as they get to know each other more.
#ARC kindly received from the author, I am voluntarily leaving a review
September 18, 2024
Sometimes what you need after a string of bad days is a cute, sweet story featuring two mains you like in a series with supporting characters you like and general feel good cuteness without being unrealistic or too much.
Tanner (or Fossie as he's known by the rest of the team) finally gets his moment with Keyshawn! They finally go from cute blushing from afar! I love how it progresses, the slow burn and general sweetness tempered with soft reality. And I loved that we got to meet Key's family too. I really enjoyed it
Tanner (or Fossie as he's known by the rest of the team) finally gets his moment with Keyshawn! They finally go from cute blushing from afar! I love how it progresses, the slow burn and general sweetness tempered with soft reality. And I loved that we got to meet Key's family too. I really enjoyed it
September 22, 2024
A highly anticipated story in a lovely series hit the goals and more.
Rating: 4.5🌈
V. L. Locey’s Watkins Glen Gladiators series is such a special warmhearted group of stories and characters. Locey’s gift of being able to bring a fully immersive universe such as the Watkins Glen Gladiators AHL team to life, then fill it up with characters that a reader will find endlessly fascinating, entertaining (looking at you,Greck),amazingly diverse, and always endearing,that’s what makes it so lovely.
Her stories are humorous, realistic, and filled with people stumbling through life as best they can, a HFN on their way to a HEA. Filled with cats, and as here, a pack of rescue dogs as real as their owner, and locations we’ve come to know as well.
The slow paced romantic relationship between 38 year old Tanner “Fossie” LaBrie of the Watkins Glen Gladiators and Keyshaun Williams, successful gym owner, is low angst, supported by both their families in a way we get to really enjoy the family dynamics and interactions, and understand the true nature of the men themselves.
There’s no real drama. Between them that is. It’s on the ice as the Gladiator’s go for the Cup in exciting scenes and memorable plays. Without the recuperating Fossie who has to watch from the sidelines. That’s the reality too.
Locey doesn’t make a mistake here. Not on or off the ice. It’s a relationship that’s still very much in play but going forward in the right direction. I love this. Realistic expectations and grounded.
Plus we get a very special wedding and vows. That’s the ice on the Cup!
A highly anticipated story in a lovely series hit the goals and more.
Watkins Glen Gladiators:
- [x] Between The Pipes #1
- [x] Defending The House #2
- [x] Dump and Chase #3
- [x] Taking The Body #4
- [x] Reading The Play #5
- [x] Playing The Man #6
Rating: 4.5🌈
V. L. Locey’s Watkins Glen Gladiators series is such a special warmhearted group of stories and characters. Locey’s gift of being able to bring a fully immersive universe such as the Watkins Glen Gladiators AHL team to life, then fill it up with characters that a reader will find endlessly fascinating, entertaining (looking at you,Greck),amazingly diverse, and always endearing,that’s what makes it so lovely.
Her stories are humorous, realistic, and filled with people stumbling through life as best they can, a HFN on their way to a HEA. Filled with cats, and as here, a pack of rescue dogs as real as their owner, and locations we’ve come to know as well.
The slow paced romantic relationship between 38 year old Tanner “Fossie” LaBrie of the Watkins Glen Gladiators and Keyshaun Williams, successful gym owner, is low angst, supported by both their families in a way we get to really enjoy the family dynamics and interactions, and understand the true nature of the men themselves.
There’s no real drama. Between them that is. It’s on the ice as the Gladiator’s go for the Cup in exciting scenes and memorable plays. Without the recuperating Fossie who has to watch from the sidelines. That’s the reality too.
Locey doesn’t make a mistake here. Not on or off the ice. It’s a relationship that’s still very much in play but going forward in the right direction. I love this. Realistic expectations and grounded.
Plus we get a very special wedding and vows. That’s the ice on the Cup!
A highly anticipated story in a lovely series hit the goals and more.
Watkins Glen Gladiators:
- [x] Between The Pipes #1
- [x] Defending The House #2
- [x] Dump and Chase #3
- [x] Taking The Body #4
- [x] Reading The Play #5
- [x] Playing The Man #6
September 29, 2024
This is the 6th book in the Watkins Glen Gladiators series and while you could read this as a standalone; you should really read the series in order. Characters from the previous books are prevalent throughout. This is the story of Tanner and Keyshaun. Tanner, or Fossie as he is known, is a defenseman and is nearing the end of this career. Keyshaun, who goes by Key, is a triplet and a gym owner. The same gym that the Gladiators use in their off time. Both Tanner and Key are aware of each other. Tanner by going completely tongue tied and shy. Key by low key flirting with Tanner. It will take a lot before these two actually spend time together but when they do, all bets are off. This is their story. The two complement each other very well. I liked how they supported each other as well. The book is very well written and easy to read. A perfect afternoon read as it is no angst and a sweet slow burn romance. I really enjoyed this book. There is a lot of humor in this book and it will have you smiling as you read. My favorite quote is “And he likes bears! You know what that means?!” “He’s a forest ranger in his spare time?” Now you know what you have to look forward to.
I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 18, 2024
This book is a lovely slow-burn romance that’s sweet and sexy. It’s part of the Watkins Glen Gladiators series and I think you will enjoy it the most if you’ve read other books in this series.
Tanner is a 38-year-old hockey player recovering from ACL surgery. Keyshaun (Key) and his two siblings own a fitness business. The blurb doesn’t quite accurately reflect their meet-cute but that didn’t really matter. I loved how their relationship evolved over time.
The story is full of V.L. Locey’s trademark snark and wit, two of the things I enjoy most about her writing.
Here are just a couple of examples:
Tanner’s brother is talking to him about Key and then Tanner responds: “And he likes bears! You know what that means?!” “He’s a forest ranger in his spare time?”
Tanner and his teammates are smoking cigars at a * bachelor party and one of them asks: “Anyone else’s mouth taste like you licked the underbelly of a ’77 Plymouth?”
*I won’t say whose party as it might be considered a spoiler.
Playing the Man is a great addition to the series and if there are more coming, I’ll be here to read them.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
Tanner is a 38-year-old hockey player recovering from ACL surgery. Keyshaun (Key) and his two siblings own a fitness business. The blurb doesn’t quite accurately reflect their meet-cute but that didn’t really matter. I loved how their relationship evolved over time.
The story is full of V.L. Locey’s trademark snark and wit, two of the things I enjoy most about her writing.
Here are just a couple of examples:
Tanner’s brother is talking to him about Key and then Tanner responds: “And he likes bears! You know what that means?!” “He’s a forest ranger in his spare time?”
Tanner and his teammates are smoking cigars at a * bachelor party and one of them asks: “Anyone else’s mouth taste like you licked the underbelly of a ’77 Plymouth?”
*I won’t say whose party as it might be considered a spoiler.
Playing the Man is a great addition to the series and if there are more coming, I’ll be here to read them.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
November 17, 2024
I love this series and getting to know the Gladiators and their loved ones. I love the close bond between those in the team, and the friendships and more. I especially enjoyed the focus on family in this story with Tanner’s brother, and Keyshaun’s siblings and mother.
I loved Tanner’s love of all things Austen and that his dogs are all rescues. I enjoyed his and Tanner’s mutual attraction, and how everyone else can see it. Their romance is sweet. I loved how Keyshaun goes from someone who doesn’t watch hockey to an avid supporter. I liked his passion for the gym he runs with his siblings, and how Tanner’s dogs love him instantly.
Keyshaun’s mother is wonderful, and can’t help herself when it comes to matchmaking. I loved his relationship with his sister and brother, and his new role as uncle. Tanner’s brother Rudy is fun and has a lot of great lines. I liked how different he and Tanner are.
I enjoyed catching up with all the couples from previous books, and the older yoga gals, and the Silver Sprinters are a hoot.
I loved Tanner’s love of all things Austen and that his dogs are all rescues. I enjoyed his and Tanner’s mutual attraction, and how everyone else can see it. Their romance is sweet. I loved how Keyshaun goes from someone who doesn’t watch hockey to an avid supporter. I liked his passion for the gym he runs with his siblings, and how Tanner’s dogs love him instantly.
Keyshaun’s mother is wonderful, and can’t help herself when it comes to matchmaking. I loved his relationship with his sister and brother, and his new role as uncle. Tanner’s brother Rudy is fun and has a lot of great lines. I liked how different he and Tanner are.
I enjoyed catching up with all the couples from previous books, and the older yoga gals, and the Silver Sprinters are a hoot.
November 1, 2024
A fantastic Watkins Glenn tale ! #6
A fantastic Watkins Glenn m/m romance for a hockey defenseman and a Health Center owner.
Tanner, “Fossie,” 38, a shy hairy bear, is rehabbing his knee after surgery, is redoing a farmhouse, and his brother is flamboyant Rudy.
Keyshaun, ex-Army, Dietician and Golden Gloves Boxer, runs a Health Center with his brother Ornell, and his sister, Etta will be having twins soon.
They have loving families, and both are interested in each other, and the same things, like books, dogs, hiking, foods, and more.
It’s a slow burn to bed and finally the sexy times are explosive.
Key and Ornell are expanding the business, and Tanner is working hard to get back on the ice. We get family history and how the Health Center operates, too.
I liked the variety of characters, plus Rudy, a sparkling and free spirit, is amazing, and so is Etta, with her babies on the way. This is heartwarming and wonderful.
ENJOY !
=====
A fantastic Watkins Glenn m/m romance for a hockey defenseman and a Health Center owner.
Tanner, “Fossie,” 38, a shy hairy bear, is rehabbing his knee after surgery, is redoing a farmhouse, and his brother is flamboyant Rudy.
Keyshaun, ex-Army, Dietician and Golden Gloves Boxer, runs a Health Center with his brother Ornell, and his sister, Etta will be having twins soon.
They have loving families, and both are interested in each other, and the same things, like books, dogs, hiking, foods, and more.
It’s a slow burn to bed and finally the sexy times are explosive.
Key and Ornell are expanding the business, and Tanner is working hard to get back on the ice. We get family history and how the Health Center operates, too.
I liked the variety of characters, plus Rudy, a sparkling and free spirit, is amazing, and so is Etta, with her babies on the way. This is heartwarming and wonderful.
ENJOY !
=====
September 28, 2024
We are back with the Gladiators and Fossie is the next to find his HEA. He’s just had knee surgery and is crippling around town when he runs into Keyshaun.
He’s the owner of a fitness center at the guys use and he absolutely turns Tanner’s crank. It’s just sad that Fossie has no game. With a little help from his brother they slowly get to know each other. Once they start getting to know each other they want to take their budding relationship to the next level. Key is a triplet from a very close knit family and they are all involved in the fitness center.
I throughly enjoyed this story. It was sweet how slowly they took their relationship. We watched them interact with all the men we’ve gotten to know from prior books. There might even be be a wedding thrown in for good measure. So if you’re searching for for a no angst, sweet love story then this is your book.
He’s the owner of a fitness center at the guys use and he absolutely turns Tanner’s crank. It’s just sad that Fossie has no game. With a little help from his brother they slowly get to know each other. Once they start getting to know each other they want to take their budding relationship to the next level. Key is a triplet from a very close knit family and they are all involved in the fitness center.
I throughly enjoyed this story. It was sweet how slowly they took their relationship. We watched them interact with all the men we’ve gotten to know from prior books. There might even be be a wedding thrown in for good measure. So if you’re searching for for a no angst, sweet love story then this is your book.
September 21, 2024
Watkins Glen's Gladiators is a heartwarming series of love, and hockey from Vicki Locey. The whole series is perfect if you're looking for feel-good romance with a touch of sports drama, it's a perfect blend of humor, heart, and passion, each book left me smiling 😊
Playing the Man is another sweet and fluffy romance, this time blending the worlds of professional hockey and gym ownership. The story follows Tanner (aka Fossie), a rugged hockey player, and Key, a driven gym owner. It's clear, as soon as they meet, that there's a spark between them, their chemistry is undeniable 🔥 Both the romantic tension, and the emotional connection between the two is truly touching. I loved the way in which their relationship grew, Tanner, despite being a big bad defence man, is such a softy. His love of dogs and Jane Austen totally resonated with me, (a man after my own heart!)😍 I also adored the unwavering support he and Key had for each other, come what may.
All the players from the previous books make an appearance. They attend Liam's (of 'Life According to Liam' fame), big day, when he and Tarcy get married. Greck never shuts up, Henri loves him more than ever, and the other guys from the team also appear to be still loved up. I'm unsure as to whether or not this is the last book in the series, I hope not, I'm certain there's scope for more . (big hint inserted here 😉)
Playing the Man is another sweet and fluffy romance, this time blending the worlds of professional hockey and gym ownership. The story follows Tanner (aka Fossie), a rugged hockey player, and Key, a driven gym owner. It's clear, as soon as they meet, that there's a spark between them, their chemistry is undeniable 🔥 Both the romantic tension, and the emotional connection between the two is truly touching. I loved the way in which their relationship grew, Tanner, despite being a big bad defence man, is such a softy. His love of dogs and Jane Austen totally resonated with me, (a man after my own heart!)😍 I also adored the unwavering support he and Key had for each other, come what may.
All the players from the previous books make an appearance. They attend Liam's (of 'Life According to Liam' fame), big day, when he and Tarcy get married. Greck never shuts up, Henri loves him more than ever, and the other guys from the team also appear to be still loved up. I'm unsure as to whether or not this is the last book in the series, I hope not, I'm certain there's scope for more . (big hint inserted here 😉)
September 15, 2024
This love story was fantastic!
From the first time we got to see them interact, it was obvious Keyshaun and Tanner were not only hot for each other but perfectly matched.
These two gave me the "awwws", the need for a fan often and made me chuckle a lot.
There are a lot of extremely cute moments in this book.
I am always excited when we get to see characters from previous books in the series. We get to see how they are doing and what has happened in their lives since their book ended.
There are also two wonderfully beautiful events that happen in this book.
Shout out to Key's sister, brother and Mom. All wonderful characters that added a lot to this story.
I HIGHLY recommend this book!
From the first time we got to see them interact, it was obvious Keyshaun and Tanner were not only hot for each other but perfectly matched.
These two gave me the "awwws", the need for a fan often and made me chuckle a lot.
There are a lot of extremely cute moments in this book.
I am always excited when we get to see characters from previous books in the series. We get to see how they are doing and what has happened in their lives since their book ended.
There are also two wonderfully beautiful events that happen in this book.
Shout out to Key's sister, brother and Mom. All wonderful characters that added a lot to this story.
I HIGHLY recommend this book!
September 20, 2024
This is a cute, fun, leisurely afternoon read with low angst. Tanner, the big hockey player, and Key, the gym owner, come together in this story. Tanner loves true romance and lives reading him some Jane Austin. Tanner and Key met, and you could feel the chemistry there. Over time, the friendship builds into a relationship. I loved the amount of love Tanner has for his four dogs, and don't get me started on the Crocs and Socks episode. I'm still laughing at that visual. It's always not easy to see and catch up with some of the other players. I’ve enjoyed this series and hope there's more to come.
I received an advance review copy for free from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Monica.
I received an advance review copy for free from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Monica.
September 21, 2024
There are not enough o’s for how smooooooooooooth Keyshaun is. I loved his playful flirting. He’s the perfect match for Fossie (Tanner), who’s been patiently awaiting his own book. They took their time dating (their “courtship phase”) and getting to know one another and I was so here for it.
Tanner’s brother Rudy is a riot and Keyshaun being one of a set of triplets adds interest to the story.
Loceys author-voice shines in her humorous phrasing, never more apparent than Tanner’s inner dialogue. I found myself giggling frequently.
The book ending at Liam and Tarcy’s wedding was very full-circle for all fans of the Watkins Glenn Gladiator series and the Life according to Liam series. 5 stars.
Tanner’s brother Rudy is a riot and Keyshaun being one of a set of triplets adds interest to the story.
Loceys author-voice shines in her humorous phrasing, never more apparent than Tanner’s inner dialogue. I found myself giggling frequently.
The book ending at Liam and Tarcy’s wedding was very full-circle for all fans of the Watkins Glenn Gladiator series and the Life according to Liam series. 5 stars.
October 12, 2024
I loved Tanner and Keyshaun's story. I'm a fan of stories about older athletes dealing with the challenges of aging out of their profession and this one with Tanner being injured and finally having to have some long postponed surgery was handled superbly. The fact that he's recommended yoga for rehab was an unusual touch that I enjoyed. Keyshaun was a wonderful character to play off Tanner because of his own athletic background and expertise as a dietitian . I loved the maturity of these characters and the way their relationship developed. I also couldn't get enough of the other members of the yoga class and the delightful members of the fitness center. I could read a whole series about them, lol.
September 21, 2024
Watkins Glen Gladiators is a lovely series that has hockey players finding their forever match in unusual places. I really enjoyed this story between Tanner and Key, along with all the appearances of entertaining side characters from previous stories. There were wonderful moments I come to this series for that include funny banter, warm and fuzzy moments, and feelings of love spun into a happy ending. (Being able to see Liam get married was an added treat.) Even though Tanner was recovering from a knee surgery, there was some exciting hockey action that Locey writes so well. I’m looking forward to whatever hockey team comes our way next!
September 30, 2024
There is Nothing in the world that makes me smile like I do when I have a hockey player story, written by VL Locey to read!
Fossie is a wonderful hockey-playing man, and he fnds an equally wonderful man to fall in love with.
The ensemble of supporting players (and dogs!) are So Much fun! I have enjoyed every book in the Watkins Glen series, and every Liam book prior!
.....and Cap making an appearance put such a big smile on my face.
This is My idea of the perfect book!
Ms Locey never disappoints!
Fossie is a wonderful hockey-playing man, and he fnds an equally wonderful man to fall in love with.
The ensemble of supporting players (and dogs!) are So Much fun! I have enjoyed every book in the Watkins Glen series, and every Liam book prior!
.....and Cap making an appearance put such a big smile on my face.
This is My idea of the perfect book!
Ms Locey never disappoints!
October 14, 2024
Tanner & Key
Very sweet story with shy Tanner and outgoing Key finding their way to each other through spending time together and getting to know one another. Tanner is healing and resting after knee surgery and Key is running himself down with keeping up and advancing his and his siblings gym business. Time for each other is a safe place and they couldn’t be better together. Loved getting to know Etta and of course being able to see Tarcey and Liam finally get married. Enjoyed this one.
Very sweet story with shy Tanner and outgoing Key finding their way to each other through spending time together and getting to know one another. Tanner is healing and resting after knee surgery and Key is running himself down with keeping up and advancing his and his siblings gym business. Time for each other is a safe place and they couldn’t be better together. Loved getting to know Etta and of course being able to see Tarcey and Liam finally get married. Enjoyed this one.
September 21, 2024
This was a wonderful low angst romance, the characters in this series are also charming and full of personality. I loved the sweetness in Key and Tanner’s story, they have very authentic chemistry. There’s some fun and exciting hockey sequences, a lovely wedding, and a satisfying HEA for Tanner and Keyshawn. Love this series!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
September 27, 2024
Playing the Man is book #6 in the Watkins Glen Gladiators series by V.L. Locey.
Tanner is a 38-year-old hockey player recovering from ACL surgery. Keyshaun (Key) and his two siblings own a fitness business.
This was such a fun, angst free read that I really enjoyed.
Playing the Man is a great addition to the series and if there are more coming, I’ll be here to read them.
Tanner is a 38-year-old hockey player recovering from ACL surgery. Keyshaun (Key) and his two siblings own a fitness business.
This was such a fun, angst free read that I really enjoyed.
Playing the Man is a great addition to the series and if there are more coming, I’ll be here to read them.
September 29, 2024
Playing the man
V.L. Locey, has become a favorite author for me . Loved tanner and Keyshean story. Loved how shy Tannen is and how Key recognizes the shyness. The series Watkins Glen Gladiators. Has Been a real joy to read. As other series. I gone on or backed up to read. Really recommend reading the books in order.
V.L. Locey, has become a favorite author for me . Loved tanner and Keyshean story. Loved how shy Tannen is and how Key recognizes the shyness. The series Watkins Glen Gladiators. Has Been a real joy to read. As other series. I gone on or backed up to read. Really recommend reading the books in order.
October 4, 2024
oh my
Shy, sweet Tanner loves his dogs but doesn’t know how to flirt with Keyshaun. Gorgeous Keyshaun who is a triplet and waiting for his nieces birth, falls for Tanner. Oh so slowly they fall in love, adore their families, learn about hockey, meet Greco and attend Liam and Tarcey’s wedding. A very adorable love story.
Shy, sweet Tanner loves his dogs but doesn’t know how to flirt with Keyshaun. Gorgeous Keyshaun who is a triplet and waiting for his nieces birth, falls for Tanner. Oh so slowly they fall in love, adore their families, learn about hockey, meet Greco and attend Liam and Tarcey’s wedding. A very adorable love story.
October 7, 2024
Fossie and Key were so sweet together. Fossie has been through his shoulder surgery and he's trying to figure out next steps- which includes trying to learn how to flirt with the handsome gym owner Key. There are lots of characters from previous books and a wedding! Locey easily weaves everyone into the story and slow burns these two to a happy ending. Fun read!
September 19, 2024
A lovely addition to the series. I am so happy to see Fossie’s story. I really enjoyed how the author showed the many hassles of having knee surgery. Key is a fantastic person with lots on his plate. I like the juggling that he has to do to make things work.
September 24, 2024
This series is a favorite of mine and this book is probably one of my top pick of them all. I enjoyed it totally, pace and all. It was good to see Fossie get his HEA. And I think Key was perfect for him. Read it in one sitting! Loved it!
September 28, 2024
I waited for Fossie’s story with high hopes and expectations and it was so worth it!
My favorite couple of the series by far. The author did a great job creating super lovable characters full of personality and charm.
My favorite couple of the series by far. The author did a great job creating super lovable characters full of personality and charm.
October 5, 2024
Playing the Man is the sixth book in the Watkins Glen Gladiator series and while it's a standalone it is much better read in order. This is a low angst, slow burn book about hockey player Fossie and gym owner Keyshaun. Loved this book so much and I was so happy to see Fossie get his HEA.
September 24, 2024
3.5 stars
October 3, 2024
This was such an adorable, drama-free storyline. Key and Tanner were super cute together. The whole series is pretty great.... I don't want it to end.
December 31, 2024
Love that we get all the couples reappearing.
October 5, 2024
Playing the Man is a sweet and fluffy romance that combines the worlds of professional hockey and gym ownership. The story centers on Tanner, a rugged hockey player known as Fossie, and Key, a driven gym owner. From their first meeting, the chemistry between them is electric.
Their relationship evolves beautifully, showcasing both romantic tension and a deep emotional bond. Tanner, despite his tough exterior as a defenseman, reveals a softer side—his love for dogs and Jane Austen adds charm to his character. The unwavering support they offer each other enhances the story, making their connection even more touching and relatable. Overall, it’s a delightful tale of love and mutual encouragement. It's a slow pace romantic book and I enjoyed it from begiing to the end.
Their relationship evolves beautifully, showcasing both romantic tension and a deep emotional bond. Tanner, despite his tough exterior as a defenseman, reveals a softer side—his love for dogs and Jane Austen adds charm to his character. The unwavering support they offer each other enhances the story, making their connection even more touching and relatable. Overall, it’s a delightful tale of love and mutual encouragement. It's a slow pace romantic book and I enjoyed it from begiing to the end.
October 11, 2024
fitting ending to this series
I can always count on V.L. Locey to write a great story that leaves me feeling happy. I love having mature characters in a story as I myself am aging. The Gladiators series was amazing, with Tanner and Keyshawn’s story tying up some loose ends as well as telling their own story. I highly recommend V.L. Locey to everyone.
I can always count on V.L. Locey to write a great story that leaves me feeling happy. I love having mature characters in a story as I myself am aging. The Gladiators series was amazing, with Tanner and Keyshawn’s story tying up some loose ends as well as telling their own story. I highly recommend V.L. Locey to everyone.
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