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Best friends. Teammates. Totally straight… until a kiss changes everything.

Nate (Holky) Holcomb

I’ve always been straight. No confusion, no questions—just a long list of hookups with women and a reputation for being the life of the party. But when Mad Dog moves into my house for a while, things start to get weird. Not in a bad way. Just in a “why do I want to kiss him” kind of way.

We’re teammates. We’re roommates. We’re definitely not boyfriends.

At least, that’s what I keep telling myself.

Chuck (Mad Dog) Madison

Getting called up to the Buffalo Warriors should’ve been the biggest moment of my career. Instead, I’m living in Holky’s guest room and trying not to lose my mind. He’s hot, hilarious, and always in my space—and I can’t stop thinking about him.

Which is extremely confusing. Because I’m straight.

Aren’t I?

The line between friendship and something more keeps getting harder to see.

An unforgettable game of truth or dare changes everything. Now we don’t know how to stop.

Shift Change is the third standalone in the Buffalo Warriors Hockey series. This double bi-awakening romance features an epic first kiss, a wildly intense game of truth or dare, more feelings than you’ll know what to do with, and a found family of chaos gremlins—er, nosy teammates. Expect friends-to-lovers, high heat, memorable firsts, medium angst, and an extraordinary HEA that hits like a perfect slapshot to the feels.

432 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 14, 2025

396 people are currently reading
440 people want to read

About the author

Ryan Taylor

21 books442 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
64 reviews
May 15, 2025
dnf 18% I don't think I can finish this. I deeply dislike both MCs. They have the maturity of 13 year olds, (and yet talk about how emotionally intelligent they are? What? Where?). Like they're both a combination of a dude-bro frat guy and a 13 year old girl.

And ffs, I cannot read an entire romance book where one of the leads is named Dog.

There’s just something weirdly off-putting and unrelatable about all of it. Maybe, if I keep reading, I'll find out that all the characters are actually aliens, and then their weird behavior will make sense. But they do not come across as real people to me.

Also, dude should be WAY more ashamed about stealing his new roommate's underwear to jerk off in. I don't think he fully understands how violating that is. And trying to pass it off as some quirkly little accident is like...what? Yeah, I'm not buying that this is a 26-year-old. No way this man has a mortgage.

I'm all for having awful, unrelatable characters if the author is aware that they are awful and unrelatable. That is not this book.

Maybe it gives good "spice", and you can just turn your brain fully off and cringe your way through the rest. I don't know. I'm not here for it.

2 stars because I dropped it very early, so I feel bad giving it 1. Might get better. idc.
Profile Image for Ami (Amireadsitall).
109 reviews6 followers
May 9, 2025
I would like to formally report that this book snuck into my heart, set up a pillow fort, and refused to leave. Nate just casually adopts Chuck like a stray kitten who happens to be devastatingly handsome, and honestly? No notes. Flawless behaviour.

Their relationship unfolds smoother than my brain on a Sunday morning — zero resistance, all vibes. They start as friends, then BAM! Suddenly they’re soulmates with benefits, and the benefits are very steamy, thank you very much.

Also, the humour is Top tier. I laughed, I swooned, I may have snorted once or twice like an unchaperoned donkey. If charm were a sport, this book would be in the Olympics.

This series has me by the feelings, and I am NOT asking for help. Just keep ‘em coming until I’m nothing but a happy puddle of romance and sass.
Profile Image for Amy  Crull.
2,436 reviews38 followers
May 16, 2025
I am already a HUGE fan of bi awakenings but I haven't read much of the double bi awakenings like this one is. This book was just beautiful. The authors wrote a story with two lovable characters who meshed really with each other, had respect on and off the ice and an instant friendship. I absolutely love Chuck(mad dog) and Nate(Holky) together!
The connection was strong from the beginning. These two just hung out with each other and then the more they were around each other, they started to see each other in a different way. I loved how it wasn't rushed around at all, they just went at their pace and what they were comfortable doing. It was just beautiful and brilliant writing. I loved both characters, the way the other hockey guys and Nana rallied around them. I absolutely adored this book and Nate and Chuck!!
Profile Image for Angel_2822.
226 reviews5 followers
September 3, 2025
“My skin buzzed, and something inside me rattled hard enough to leave my hands shaky and my breath uneven. I didn’t want to run, but I didn’t want to stop looking either. I wanted more.”


Shift Change is the third book in the Buffalo Warriors Hockey series by Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood. I know that each time I read a book by these authors I’m going to love it, but this book, OMG this book! This is the best in the series (sorry Gabe), and one of my favourites written by Ryan and Josh. I got totally emotionally invested in these two adorable idiots.

Nate Holcomb (Holky) and Chuck Madison (Mad Dog) had me from their first chaotic meet cute (Chuck spills coffee on Nate), and it’s basically downhill (in the best way) from there. We first meet Mad Dog in Back to Center, he’s a rookie in the Lions, the Mohegan U hockey team. Nate is a Buffalo Warriors player and we’ve met him in the previous books in the series.

“When you came running into the locker room like a maniac and poured coffee all over me, I⁠—” “Spilled. I didn’t pour it on you.” The glint of humor in his eyes gave me the courage to go on. “Whatever. The point is, you walked in, and I felt different, like maybe things were about to get better."


They start off as just teammates and roommates (since day one due to a decision of the team manager, so Chuck can adapt to the new team), but the way their friendship slowly turns into something more when they have always considered themselves straight? Ugh, so good. It’s natural, it’s sweet, it’s messy in all the right ways.

“A buddy to game and have a few beers with was one thing, but a guy I wanted to make smile? This might be a bad idea.”


What I really loved is how neither of them freaks out about what they're feeling. They don’t waste time putting labels on things, they just feel it and go with it. And their connection is deep. Like, yeah, the spice is amazing and it is hot, but the emotional stuff? That’s what really hit me. They're vulnerable with each other in a way that feels real. Nate’s been through it, and Chuck just gets him in a way no one else has.

“Sometimes ‘Mad Dog’ feels fake. There are certain ways I have to act and talk, crack a lot of jokes, and never be too serious. But I feel serious a lot of times. It hurts when I have to hide that.”
“I know exactly what you mean because I feel like ‘Holky’ is a role I play. My character’s job is to keep everyone laughing and be the life of the party, but I don’t usually feel like doing any of that. I’d like to listen for once, not carry the responsibility of being Holky.”
<


I admit that I have a soft spot for Nate. I felt so many things for him (with him). I could understand his hesitation and his fears. I wanted to hug him to make sure he feels truly loved, to reassure him that he’s an amazing human being and the world is a better place just because he’s in it.

Also, the whole team vibe is everything. The Buffalo Warriors are the kind of found family you wish you had. They are supportive, hilarious, a little chaotic… And Nana? Loved her. Having been raised by my grandma, this character really struck a chord with me. It brought back long-forgotten memories that moved me deeply.

This series keeps getting better, and as I already said, Shift Change might just be my favourite so far. Funny, heartfelt, emotional, steamy... it’s got it all. I’m sure I’m going to reread it soon. I can’t recommend it enough, and although it can be read as a standalone, don’t skip books one and two, they are awesome, too.

I received an eARC via Nisha’s Books and Coffee PR for free, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
Profile Image for Kitchen Sink Books.
1,689 reviews41 followers
May 20, 2025
Where to start? This book was everything that it promised and so, so much more! It made me smile, then had me laughing, gasping, at one point crying. So much emotion in these pages, shared with raw open honesty. Nothing is held back. I am in awe of Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood and of their characters who, to me at least, feel very real.

The Buffalo Warriors are an amazing team of hockey players, their partners are outstanding too and if you've read the earlier books you will know some of their stories. This time the story focuses on Nate and new player Chuck or as they are known to their team on the ice and in the locker rooms, Holky and Mad Dog. The one for his surname the other for his sheer power and determination on the ice. Strangers until the moment Chuck dashes into the locker room on his first day, throws coffee onto Holky and causes the start of much chirping between the two of them and the whole team.

Coach has arranged for Chick to stay with Nate whilst he finds his feet and it becomes very clear, very quickly that there is something monumental about to happen between the pair. It does and it is monumental but it is also thoughtful, cautious, gradual. Both men have painful pasts, for different reasons, but they find themselves able to open to one another, able to share. It seems as though they have found a best-friend/soulmate but they also both know something is missing, that they want more from one another. Trouble is neither of them have ever had feelings for a man before and are completely uncertain how to navigate these unusual feelings and the fears from the past that refuse to let them go.

This being two hockey players with a found family of hockey players and best friends around them there is plenty of banter and plenty of support. The team watch out for one another like nothing else, their bonds are stronger than those of blood and they will do anything for one another, except lose at video games perhaps! The path ahead is not a smooth one for Nate and Chuck, there are moments of utter brilliance that I can only imagine the authors having the best time creating - particularly when the pair declare (to one another only, of course) that they are ROD friends. You'll have to discover that gem for yourselves of course!

With so much on the line for Nate and Chuck, personally, professionally, romantically this book is one that had me both wishing they would understand what they had and embrace it. Yet I also wanted the journey for them, was with them for every step, felt myself wanting to reach in and hug them both. This pair, this whole team, they have had my heart since book 1, adopting new players as they arrive, I feel that they are a firm part of my life now and I savoured their story. I hope you will too.
2,101 reviews17 followers
May 14, 2025
Chuck (Mad Dog) is called up to the NHL for hockey and ended up staying at a teammate Nate (Holky)'s house. Two single straight guys, watching sports, playing video games, clubbing, having the times of their lives, what could happen? Except both guys start feeling things they've never felt before for a guy. It's a good book with them stumbling through the first steps of a relationship, getting down and dirty with each other and then confidently claiming each other. I received a copy of this and this is my voluntary opinion.
Profile Image for H.M.S..
Author 7 books64 followers
July 13, 2025
Shift Change by Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood - a pair of authors who write must-buy books and this book fit the bill of a great hockey romance.

There's nothing better than a good hockey romance written by authors who actually know both hockey and how to write a romance. It makes for a terrific story with some great on-ice scenes.

Off the ice, there's plenty of witty banter and lots of steam. Add in familiar characters and hints at which character will be in the next book and you can't go wrong.

Another terrific read. Looking forward to the next in the series!
Profile Image for fortheloveofmmromancebooks.
307 reviews29 followers
October 4, 2025
Arc Review

Wow, I just loved this, Ryan and Josh can write an incredible books.

On his first day for the Buffalo Warriors, Chuck (Mad Dog) Madison is late to meet his new teammates. In all his haste his bumps in to Nate (Holky) Holcomb, and spills coffee all over him. Could this be the best meet cute?
Being the newbie, Chuck is staying at a hotel for the time being, until Nate is asked to have him as a guest. Nate being lonely in his life and home, welcomes the offer.

With both Chuck and Nate identifying as straight, they both start to unlock feelings and question themselves. Being teammates and roommates, they understand the requirements of hockey. They start to nap together, and find they sleep better than they have ever done.
They start something beautiful, and embrace their feelings, however Nate has some issues he must work through to enable their HEA.

Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood have gone and done it yet again.
This is such a wonderful roommates to friends to lovers story. I adore the way both Chuck and Nate fall effortlessly for each other, they never question their attraction to one another.
I was hooked from the first chapter after the coffee and blue boxers incident! Their connection was immediate. Being friends they confide in one another, telling secrets they have never said aloud to anyone else.
It was lovely to revisit Harper and Luca (Crossed Sticks) and Gabe and Brody (Net Bet).
I laughed out loud at times and welled up in places.
Nana was a force of nature and a terrific side character.
The brotherhood of teammates was so comforting to read.
Ryan and Josh are massive hockey fans and that is obvious when reading the hockey scenes, they describe the play, just like I am there.
Oh, and the spice, phew!!

Without a doubt another 5 star book from the guys. I highly recommend anything they write.
Bring on the next Buffalo Warriors book.
Profile Image for Evelyn Bella (there WILL be spoilers) .
859 reviews173 followers
June 3, 2025
They defined things as 'ride or die friends'? Lol what in the 21st century fuckboy?!

When Chuck committed grievous bodily harm to a guy for hurting Nate in full view of a stadium full of people 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

*Shane Hollander could neverrrrr.

I've never been more amused at such a meddlesome group of friends. Their teammates just would NOT leave them alone about it.
"I've never seen you looking so well fucked."
"I see two sets of boxers on the floor."

They said we're not doing the nonsense from the previous book again. Let's just come out FOR you so you don't have to worry about coming out to us💀

Riley standing slightly behind a corner until he nabbed Nate sneaking out of Chuck's room was💀💀💀💀💀💀💀💀💀

Very 'Guys, I know you're fucking. Let's just NOT do this whole song and dance'

I was a bit mad at the teammates for interfering and orchestrating their first kiss.....until the kiss happened and these two just couldn't STOP going in again and again IN FRONT OF THE WHOLE TEAM.

Looking back, trying to play that off as a dare was when the whole thing unraveled.

And I loved it even more that the whole team was eventually as meddlesome when it came to helping Nate fight his demons rather than let them pull him under because he wouldn't ask for help and was pushing away any that was offered.

I'm a huge fan of stories that depict MCs leaning on their community, especially when the community has shown that they're there, they care, and they WANT to be inconvenienced. We should all be so lucky.

Also, one of the FEW times I'm okay with the (emotional) criminal not being the one to approach the other MC for the reconciliation. If anything, it added to the story rather than infuriating me. It made sense, given the context of the emotional terrorism.

Double bi-awakenings continue to be my kryptonite.
Profile Image for Rosie.
19 reviews
May 13, 2025
From their charming meet-cute, which involved spilled coffee, Mad Dog and Holky completely captivated me. Their banter was spot-on, and their complex pasts were expertly developed. The chemistry between them was off the charts! The spicy scenes were fantastic, but beyond the heat, their emotional connection was beautifully portrayed. Watching them grow closer and learn to trust each other was truly moving.

Ryan and Josh have a talent for creating characters that feel so real you want them to be your friends. I loved all the Warriors players; they are so much fun, and their hilarious escapades are a delight. They truly embody the idea of a found family.

I can't overlook the hockey scenes! No one writes hockey like Ryan and Josh. Their writing is so engaging that it captivates all my senses, making me feel as if I'm right there in the arena, watching the Warriors play. Ryan and Josh's hockey scenes are unforgettable! Their immersive writing pulls me in completely, making me feel like I'm actually experiencing all the action live.

If you're looking for a five-star read packed with heat that could set your Kindle on fire, humor, and heartfelt romance, "Shift Change" is the perfect book for you. Its well-developed characters, along with a mix of hilarious moments and the belief in love's transformative power, make it a must-read.d the escapades they get up to are hilarious. They are the epitome of a found family.

If you're looking for a five-star read packed with heat that could set your Kindle on fire, humor, and heartfelt romance, "Shift Change" is the perfect book for you. Its well-developed characters, along with a mix of hilarious moments and the belief in love's transformative power, make it a must-read.
85 reviews
May 18, 2025
This series gets better and better! This is the third book in the Buffalo Warriors Hockey series. This is Holky and Mad Dog’s story. We first met Mad Dog in the Mohegan University series. Holky’s backstory is heartbreaking and I just wanted to wrap him up in a big hug. I’m so glad he realized that he is deserving of love and his parents horrible decisions were not because he was broken or his fault. Addiction, abuse and mental health struggles can have serious adverse effects on children and the adults they become. Holky’s father reminds me of Eckie’s father with how abusive they were. I’m glad they both got what they deserved. With the love and help from Dog, he faced his inner demons and fears. I love that Dog didn’t give up even when Holky was unsure and giving in to his fears. He fought for their happy ending and Holky was willing to get in the ring with him. I have a few favorite quotes from the book and one of them is from Dog “I love you, Nate. I’m not afraid of your ghosts or of what might happen if you get scared again or things get hard. I’m stronger than you think I am. You won’t destroy me, so love me the best way you know how. That’s all I want.” I love the brotherhood of the team and how they come together to help each other. It reminds me so much of the Bethesda barracudas and the brotherhood/ family that they have. Nana is now my favorite grandmother lol. She raised Dog after the tragic death of his parents and she embraced and loved Holky at first sight. She also knows how to put those big hockey dudes in their place. Everyone should have a Nana like her. Every book that I read from Ryan and Joshua becomes my favorite book from them. Now shift change is my favorite. I really cannot wait for Logan and Riley’s story!

Profile Image for Zohra Gaffoor.
8 reviews
May 20, 2025
Shift Change was absolutely adorable—there’s no better word for it. From the moment Nate welcomes Chuck into his home, their relationship unfolds with such ease and warmth that it's impossible not to fall in love with them. The way they go from roommates to close friends to something so much more felt incredibly natural and heartwarming. Their chemistry is undeniable, and when things heat up—let’s just say the steam is off the charts!

What I truly appreciated was how smoothly their relationship developed. There was no unnecessary drama or overthinking; they didn’t need to define every emotion. Instead, they trusted their feelings and leaned into their connection. The emotional vulnerability they share is beautifully written—especially seeing how Chuck instinctively understands Nate and supports him without hesitation. That depth is what really made their story hit home for me.

The humor throughout the book added another layer of charm, giving the story a lightness that perfectly balanced the emotional moments. I found myself smiling just as often as I was swooning. The camaraderie among the hockey team and the love from Nana created such a strong sense of found family—something that made the story even more comforting and meaningful.

Every book in this series has been a joy to read, and Shift Change might just be my favorite so far. Nate and Chuck’s story was written with care, heart, and just the right amount of heat. I absolutely adored it and can’t wait to see what’s next—especially the upcoming book with Riley and Logan!
Profile Image for Xanthe.
2,524 reviews46 followers
May 17, 2025
Oh my god, I love this book! I may even go as far to say, possibly my favourite, or at least one of my favourite, reads from Ryan and Josh.
Nate and Chuck hit it off, right from the first spilled coffee. Easy friendship and truly comfortable with each other. I was surprised with just how quickly they notice things about each other but it flows well with the story. neither has been attracted to a man before but is open to something. Bad/poor relationship history for both makes them wary but it's clear how well they fit together. They're open and honest with each other and know how to have a laugh. Chemistry and attraction is no worries for them as it sparks and ignites immediately.
One of my favourite things about this book is the found family feel from the team. Every one of them are there for Nate and Chuck, through the good and bad. It's definitely not all sunshine and roses, with a big nod to mental health and the impact of childhood relationships. Chuck's Nan is also a delightful addition! Welcoming Nate as soon as she meets him endears me even more to her.
The hockey is also a big part of the book, with the guys bonding on and off the ice. The timeline is a full season of hockey and it has small time jumps that helps with the flow of the story.
I cannot recommend this enough, absolutely loved everything about it.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
30 reviews4 followers
May 13, 2025
There was something about Mad Dog that really pulled me in when we met him in Back To Center. He was feisty, funny and loyal to the hilt. I was so excited to see he was getting a book with Holky! One of my absolute favorite tropes is bi
awakening and WOW is this one done to perfection! The curiosity, confusion and explosive heat as these two best friends begin to explore their burgeoning feelings, is written with nuance and great emotional depth. As you would expect in real life, there is laughter, a little clumsiness and a burning passion to figure it out as these two, up till now, “straight” guys lean into this new experience. There are the exciting hockey scenes we have come to expect from these authors who truly know the game, as well as a memorable cast of side characters to lend their unwavering support. If you haven’t met Mad Dog and Holky yet, go now! The heat between these two is absolutely scorching! All the more so because there is a real story here. These own voices authors bring something very special to the page. Don’t miss this chance to find it for yourself!
Profile Image for Raven and Chris.
3,258 reviews29 followers
May 6, 2025
This story was so worth a read. This husband-author duo really knows how to create characters that you can’t stop reading about until you finish the book! Holky (Nate) is a fun guy and the best buddy anyone can ask for. It is natural for him to ripen up his home to the new guy on the team and offer him a place to stay. Chuck, or Mad Dog, is nervous about his new role and new team but Nate goes out of his way to make him feel welcome. These two fit together right from the start. I loved how quickly they became friends and then more. This team is also full of welcoming guys and the best found family either man could ask for. I really enjoyed this series and am a little mad at myself that it has taken me so long to discover these authors. I now have an entire backlist to work through!

I received a free copy of this book through Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Natalie.
507 reviews17 followers
May 7, 2025
This has now become my favourite in the series! When Mad Dog joins the Buffalo Warriors he ends up being housemates  with fellow player Holky.The two men quickly become friends,which evolves into something deeper.After a game of truth or dare and a mindblowing kiss,the spark between them ignites.
Both men slowly come to accept they might not be as 'straight' as they thought they were, as feelings develop.The relationship between Mad Dog and Holky is tender, genuine, and beautiful.Both men are lovable and hilarious.
The team friendships have developed so well throughout the series.These two lovable idiots were just trying  to figure everything out together & it left nothing but a smile on my face.Mad Dog & Holkys love story was silly & sweet.
spice-🌶🌶🌶
Profile Image for Mel Cheer.
30 reviews1 follower
May 14, 2025
Phenomenal

Once again these authors have released a book that combines pure heat, breathtaking romance and a storyline that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
Holky and Mad Dog's lives shift as they fall for each other, surrounded by teammates who are more like family and hilarious in their own right and a sassy Nana who takes no prisoners. With characters from previous releases making appearances the world in which these books are set continues to grow and adds to the found family feels.
This book has everything that I look for, a meet-cute that makes you laugh, a relationship that grows naturally and MC's that you can't help but love and want to read again and again.
Profile Image for Avery.
473 reviews21 followers
May 6, 2025
This was adorable, I have no other words for it. The easy way Nate takes in Chuck so he has a place to live was as easy as the rest of their story. They get along amazingly and the falling for each other is so fluid and heartwarming. They make great friends and with their chemistry they create some seriously hot steam together. The humor throughout the story was great and just leveled up the entire book even more.

I have enjoyed every book in this series so far and all I can say is keep them coming!
Profile Image for Pat.
1,574 reviews18 followers
May 14, 2025
Shift Change" (Buffalo Warriors Book 3) is another fantastic read by the talented duo, Ryan Taylor and Josh Harwood! This series takes us into the exciting world of hockey, where love can definitely score big.

In this story, we meet two hockey players who have never crossed paths until one fateful day when Dog accidentally spills coffee on Holky. From that moment, a spark ignites, leading to a strong connection and an undeniable attraction. What starts as a friendship quickly blossoms into a beautiful romantic relationship.

The witty banter between the characters is delightful, and the Buffalo Warriors team brings so much humor that I found myself laughing out loud! It's a heartwarming tale about the power of love intertwined with the thrill of hockey, and it’s written brilliantly. You won’t want to miss it!
Profile Image for Jurnee Mccarty.
142 reviews7 followers
June 1, 2025
Enjoyed this so much. It was absolutely hilarious. Chuck and Nate are literally the sweetest boys in the whole world. I adore them so much. I had so much fun reading this. Definitely a great light read.
Profile Image for Good Booking Girl.
410 reviews17 followers
May 17, 2025
Shift Change deserves all the stars! It's an incredibly emotional book, and I loved it!
🏒 Shift Change is:
-friends to lovers
-double bi-awakening
-M/M hockey romance

... and the third standalone book in the Buffalo Warriors Hockey Series from bestselling authors Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood. I cannot get enough of this series. Considering it's the thrid book, the character development is established for most of their teammates, and it makes for an even more enjoyable read.

Holky (Nate) and Mad Dog (Chuck) get their story and it's so good! It's funny, emotional, guts on the table raw…. And of course, all their friends along for the ride!

Nate and Chuck have considered themselves straight males, who, to the rest of the world, enjoyed wild random hook ups and partying. However, deep down, they were both lonely, and seeking connection with someone who could love them and they, in turn, could love back. They each have their own lived experiences that have wounded their hearts, Nate, perhaps is the most haunted by his experiences of abandonment. He has made it is core belief that he is not worth the effort, not worth being loved, and is more trouble than it's worth.
Enter Chuck, who has betrayed by not only a former girlfriend, but also two of his best friends. The cut ran deep and left him uncertain; not able to trust easily anymore, questioning everyone's intention.

The team manager has them living together, temporarily, to help Chuck acclimate to his new team and city, hoping Nate can help him settle in. This was meant to be a temporary plan. However within a short period of time, they can't help but feel drawn to each other. They don't understand what's happening, as they've never considered themselves as anything other than straight, however, each so emotionally attuned and secure to not put a label on it, and just go with their hearts, they take a giant leap (and risk) and commit to making this work; see where it goes.

In true Ryan and Joshua fashion, the writing is top tier: the duo POV's gives the reader an incredibly intimate perspective of the MMC's feelings, needs, desires, as well as their fears, worries and how they process their new feelings.
They write their characters in such a way that you want to be there with them; be a part of the friends' group because they all seem so incredible - loyal, trustworthy, dependable, smart, funny, supportive, kind... what more could a person want in a friend.

There were moments in the story that my heart was hurting for Nate and Chuck. The emotions were do strong, you couldn't help yourself from feeling what they were feeling. So good! i love when a book can grab me like that!

Thank you for the privilege of being an ARC reviewer. I look forward to Riley and Logan's story! that's coming up next!
110 reviews
June 7, 2025
Chuck (Mad Dog) and Nate (Holky) meet when Chuck gets traded and becomes the latter's new hockey teammate. Nate offers Chuck a place to stay and they quickly become firm friends, though they are confused about their initial attraction and then their growing feelings towards each other.

This is an enjoyable read about a double bi-awakening (or maybe just for each other) and it's clear how strong the connection is between the two guys from the outset, which only grows stronger as the story progresses. I think what I enjoyed the most was how natural their relationship was, growing from that friendship into partners, despite their insecurities from their past experiences and uncertainties about what their feelings mean in the long run. They seem to affect Nate more than Chuck, and it was interesting to see how Nate dealt with them.

It was hard not to adore Chuck's character, and I loved when you saw his protective side towards Nate. As well as showing a different side to him, it was the nudge they needed to finally admit their feelings for each other and officially become something more.

I also have to mention how beautiful Chuck's relationship with his Nana was after she raised him. You can't help but love him even more when he's determined to look after her with gifts to repay her, despite what any financial advisor may say. I adored how quickly she adopted Nate as though he were her own, and her cheeky little comments about their friendship. I definitely wouldn't have minded seeing a bit more of her.

It was also heartwarming to see the overwhelming support that Nate and Chuck had from the other players, despite their playful teasing, and that they all came together to help them when needed.

This is the first book I've read in the Buffalo Warriors series but I will definitely be adding the others to my tbr list. I'm looking forward to reading Harper's story and Gabe/Brody as I loved their characters in this book, and there's potential for other characters too as they've been well introduced/teased here.
1,056 reviews8 followers
May 21, 2025
This is book three of the authors’ Buffalo Warriors Hockey and features Holky, previously one of the team’s worst womanizers and Mad Dog, brand new to the NHL after just being called up from the minors.

Ever since finishing Net Bet when I found out his was next, I’ve been so excited for Holky’s book to be released! In NB, Holky (Nate Holcomb) was loud, womanizing, and WAY too over sharing but you’d catch hints here and there that there was much more to him than he let on—loneliness and the occasional vulnerability…I was desperate for his full story and I wasn’t disappointed in the least. In fact, from his first interaction with Mad Dog (Chuck Madison), I was hooked! His inner dialogue when he first caught himself thinking about Dog was hilarious and then, finding out more kept me flipping the pages wanting to find out more about the man who, despite the way he acted, was really desperate for a real connection with someone…anyone. Dog was the same. Both had been hurt in the past and, although neither was interested in hooking up anymore, they still wanted that physical closeness but didn’t want to open themselves up to being hurt again. I absolutely LOVED that they each gave the other that sense of being safe…every time one thought about it, I just melted. I mean, the thought of these two big, hulking, hockey players, even in the privacy of their own thoughts, realizing that they suddenly felt SAFE with this one person…that they allow themselves that feeling of vulnerability…it was the hottest, most beautiful thing ever!

If you haven’t read about Holky yet, I so hope you will. Each book CAN be read as a standalone but, to get the most enjoyment out of this book, I urge you to at least read Net Bet first, you’ll be so glad you did, they’re both (all three really) amazing books. 5 stars!

I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Megan McGrath .
572 reviews5 followers
May 14, 2025
Nate (Holky) & Chuck (Mad Dog)
So many stories nowadays are all about bi-awakenings, but it really seems that they are more likely to be about learning and awareness of sexual shifts in the spectrum rather than a full-on awakening. These guys don't know how to define their relationship and the feelings they have for one another. But all they know for sure is that they're not "straight".

It's really no surprise that I loved the story. Nate has been a fun character to follow in the last two books and it's great to see him get his own story. He has such a complex background that we haven't gotten to explore until now, and while it's not fully dissected, it affects him more than anybody would really like. He stresses so much about his past that it really puts a damper on his future with Chuck. I was really happy to see Chuck able to pull Nate out of his mental fog and help him find the emotional balance he needs for the men to have an enduring and healthy relationship. Nate & Chuck's awareness of the difference between him being "Nate" versus being "Holky" is what really starts to shed light on the direction he needs to take to move forward.

I loved Shift Change, and I love all of these complex relationships that we get to explore with the Buffalo Warriors. They're a great team with their own built-in found family, but it's great that even with some of the players coupling-off that family element isn't lost, and they just widen their circle. I am really looking forward to the continued stories in this series. I know however many are planned will be fantastic.

I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
1,187 reviews41 followers
May 15, 2025
story of Holky and Mad Dog

This is a teammates to more romance, featuring Nate (Holky) Holcomb and Chuck (Mad Dog) Madison, and is book three in the Buffalo Warriors Hockey series.

Teammates Holky and Mad Dog think they’re straight—until living together and one surprising kiss changes everything. As their feelings grow, they struggle to figure out if they’re just exploring as friends or falling for each other.

I loved these two together. Poor Nate was a little bit broken but Chuck didn’t give up on him and they find their HEA. There is some truely funny moments (cough, underwear). Loved the found family that is the Warriors and Chuck’s nana.

Things to expect in this book are:
Book 2 in series
MM hockey romance
Teammates to more
Roommates
Hurt / Comfort
Slight underwear kink
Cuddles
Truth or Dare
Double bi awakening
Spicy times & dirty talk
Denial
Admit feelings
Self sabotage
Found family
Exhibitionism
Calls him Sweets
All in
HEA
39 reviews1 follower
May 18, 2025
ARC Review.


This is book three of the Buffalo Warriors series and my personal favourite so far. I couldn't wait to read this and it definitely didn't disappoint.

This is Nate (Holky) and Chuck's (Mad Dog) book, a bi awakening romance.

Chuck is new on the team and literally bumps into Nate, it's very cute. Nate decides to take him in and they begin living together.

Very quickly they notice their feelings for each other are developing, there's a great first kiss in front of the whole team.

The humour in this one is great aswell, it's even in their steamy moments which made it feel all that more real.

It isn't all plain sailing as they do have a couple of bumps along the road and it does skip through a whole season so from chapter to chapter it can skip quite a bit of time.

It was such a good read and I couldn't recommend enough.

5*
Profile Image for Sammy Standing.
435 reviews5 followers
May 4, 2025
Shift Changes is a roommates to friends to lovers romance that gripped me from the first page and I could not put this down for even a second.

I loved the dynamic between Holky (Nate) and Dog (Chuck), these characters go from never questioning their sexuality to taking naps together and cuddling, I could not get enough of these characters and truly did not want to finish this book.

This is my favourite book so far by these authors so far and I definitely need to check out other books by them as soon as possible.
Profile Image for b00ks_in_nature.
842 reviews13 followers
May 11, 2025
This was my first book by these authors, and I have no idea why I waited so long! The characters are well-rounded and I truly cared about them, the secondary characters are fabulous (I need to catch up on books one and two), there is mental health rep that's done well, it's a hockey romance where there is actually a good amount of actual hockey in it, the spice is spicin' (and didn't get monotonous), the plot is entertaining, pacing is great - I think I'm going overboard at this point, but it's well-deserved. This was a great book! They are going to the top of my must-read list.
Profile Image for Riley  Harper Harper.
Author 1 book22 followers
May 23, 2025
This book was absolutely delightful! Nate's willingness to welcome Chuck into his home brought an intriguing dynamic to their relationship. The natural chemistry between the two of them made their journey from friends to something more feel both smooth and heartwarming. Their camaraderie is fantastic, and the moments they share are genuinely steamy. The humor woven throughout the narrative elevated the entire reading experience, making it even more enjoyable. I've loved every installment in this series, and I eagerly look forward to more!
Profile Image for Michelle Fry.
111 reviews9 followers
May 4, 2025
Another game winning goal for Josh and Ryan!!

Shift Change had the perfect amount of spice, banter, angst and hockey!!

Holky and Mad Dog definitely turned up the heat with their romance!! From the minute Mad Dog spilled coffee all over Holky, I was hooked!!

I absolutely LOVED seeing the rest of the team make appearances!!

Remind me to NEVER play a game of truth or dare with a bunch of hockey players…who k owe what they might have you do!!
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