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Bats and Badgers #1
The Switched-Up Playbook
NICKO
As a Top Ten draft pick, I‘d been on my way to hockey stardom—until one bad hit on the ice threatened it all. Now I have one year of college left to prove to everyone that I’ve made a full recovery from my injury and am still worth a shot in the NHL.
So my plan for senior year is keep my head down, work hard, win the Frozen Four.
But it all goes right out the window when my twin brother Nate finds himself in a precarious situation, and I’m the only one who can help him.
The only problem? It includes living with his best friend—and my worst enemy. Xander Hart has a way of getting under my skin, and our encounters usually end in disaster.
XANDER
Study hard, make my parents proud, win the Frozen Four—that’s my to-do list for senior year. One thing I did not have on there: losing my best friend.
Nate and I have been inseparable since our first day of college, so I really thought I knew him. But then his behavior changes from one day to the next, and not in a good way. He’s avoiding me, and every time I confront him, we end up fighting. On the ice, however, we are unstoppable.
Suddenly, I’m torn between wanting to punch him—and wanting to kiss him.
Ugh, this year is going to be intense.
The Switched-Up Playbook is the first in a five book standalone mm college romance series, each of them featuring different athletes. Book 1 is filled with heated fights on and off the ice between two rivals, witty banter, spicy scenes, twin shenanigans, and wholesome friendships. This series is not suitable for readers under the age of 18 years.
As a Top Ten draft pick, I‘d been on my way to hockey stardom—until one bad hit on the ice threatened it all. Now I have one year of college left to prove to everyone that I’ve made a full recovery from my injury and am still worth a shot in the NHL.
So my plan for senior year is keep my head down, work hard, win the Frozen Four.
But it all goes right out the window when my twin brother Nate finds himself in a precarious situation, and I’m the only one who can help him.
The only problem? It includes living with his best friend—and my worst enemy. Xander Hart has a way of getting under my skin, and our encounters usually end in disaster.
XANDER
Study hard, make my parents proud, win the Frozen Four—that’s my to-do list for senior year. One thing I did not have on there: losing my best friend.
Nate and I have been inseparable since our first day of college, so I really thought I knew him. But then his behavior changes from one day to the next, and not in a good way. He’s avoiding me, and every time I confront him, we end up fighting. On the ice, however, we are unstoppable.
Suddenly, I’m torn between wanting to punch him—and wanting to kiss him.
Ugh, this year is going to be intense.
The Switched-Up Playbook is the first in a five book standalone mm college romance series, each of them featuring different athletes. Book 1 is filled with heated fights on and off the ice between two rivals, witty banter, spicy scenes, twin shenanigans, and wholesome friendships. This series is not suitable for readers under the age of 18 years.
411 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 31, 2025
167 people are currently reading
868 people want to read
About the author
A.J. Kyler
1 book69 followersA.J. Kyler is the pseudonym of the authors Annie and Jay: two close friends who met over ten years ago and have been writing for just as long. Creating worlds and stories is their favorite pastime, a hobby they kept between themselves until Annie jokingly suggested to self-publish a book—and Jay took it seriously.
They love reading and writing, usually stay up far too long to come up with new characters and ideas, and take regular “workations” during which they hike through forests and visit castles—and plot their next book.
They love reading and writing, usually stay up far too long to come up with new characters and ideas, and take regular “workations” during which they hike through forests and visit castles—and plot their next book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
March 31, 2025
5 ⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Format: ebook
”Even when we could barely stand being in the same room, he was a constant in my life, a corner of my mind always reserved for him.”
The Parent Trap, but make it gay and hockey-related, and you have this fun and sexy story about identical twins swapping places and starting a crazy series of events that ends in two rivals who highly dislike each other falling in love.
Nicko and Xander have butted heads for years, and it doesn’t help that Xander is Nicko’s twin brother’s best friend and roommate. When Nate comes down with a stomach bug right before a super important game that will secure his place in the NHL, he convinces Nicko to take his place. This results in two weeks of Nicko having to share close quarters with the bane of his existence and pretend that they’re friends. Meanwhile, Xander is slowly losing his mind over the fact that he’s all of a sudden attracted to his best friend.
↳”I’m seeing him clearly for the first time right now, in this overcrowded room, in the middle of a Halloween party: how he tips his head back as he laughs, his pale throat a contrast to his flushed cheeks, the bright glow in his eyes as he keeps listening to whatever joke is told next.”
Their two-week break from hating each other doesn’t end their animosity, and instead fans the flames. They go between bouts of wanting to beat each other up to wanting to pin each other down. This creates the hottest sexual tension and push and pull between them.
↳“I still have the undeniable urge to roll my eyes whenever he opens his mouth. But I also want to smash our lips together before I punch him in the face.”
The relationship between Nicko and his brother was also a really cute part of the story. Nicko comes off as a selfish grump, but the truth is that he’d do anything for the people he cares about. He has this very secret soft spot and it was so endearing to watch Xander become one of the people he takes care of.
↳“I’m used to sharing my whole life—clothes, toys, friends, dreams—and in the end I wouldn’t have it any other way. But this? For the first time I feel the burning need to claim something for myself.”
This was a brilliant debut from Annie and Jay that had me glued to my Kindle from the very first word. I loved the slow progression of Nicko and Xander’s relationship—from hate to dislike to reluctant acquaintances to…well, you’ll see. There are going to be five books in this series and I am so excited for whatever comes next. I’m already crossing my fingers for certain people to get books!
”’I’ve never managed to get you out of my system.’
‘You don’t have to get me out of your system then. Not ever.’”
*I received a free, advanced copy of this book from the authors and this is my voluntary, honest review.
Bookstagram | Booktok
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Format: ebook
”Even when we could barely stand being in the same room, he was a constant in my life, a corner of my mind always reserved for him.”
The Parent Trap, but make it gay and hockey-related, and you have this fun and sexy story about identical twins swapping places and starting a crazy series of events that ends in two rivals who highly dislike each other falling in love.
Nicko and Xander have butted heads for years, and it doesn’t help that Xander is Nicko’s twin brother’s best friend and roommate. When Nate comes down with a stomach bug right before a super important game that will secure his place in the NHL, he convinces Nicko to take his place. This results in two weeks of Nicko having to share close quarters with the bane of his existence and pretend that they’re friends. Meanwhile, Xander is slowly losing his mind over the fact that he’s all of a sudden attracted to his best friend.
↳”I’m seeing him clearly for the first time right now, in this overcrowded room, in the middle of a Halloween party: how he tips his head back as he laughs, his pale throat a contrast to his flushed cheeks, the bright glow in his eyes as he keeps listening to whatever joke is told next.”
Their two-week break from hating each other doesn’t end their animosity, and instead fans the flames. They go between bouts of wanting to beat each other up to wanting to pin each other down. This creates the hottest sexual tension and push and pull between them.
↳“I still have the undeniable urge to roll my eyes whenever he opens his mouth. But I also want to smash our lips together before I punch him in the face.”
The relationship between Nicko and his brother was also a really cute part of the story. Nicko comes off as a selfish grump, but the truth is that he’d do anything for the people he cares about. He has this very secret soft spot and it was so endearing to watch Xander become one of the people he takes care of.
↳“I’m used to sharing my whole life—clothes, toys, friends, dreams—and in the end I wouldn’t have it any other way. But this? For the first time I feel the burning need to claim something for myself.”
This was a brilliant debut from Annie and Jay that had me glued to my Kindle from the very first word. I loved the slow progression of Nicko and Xander’s relationship—from hate to dislike to reluctant acquaintances to…well, you’ll see. There are going to be five books in this series and I am so excited for whatever comes next. I’m already crossing my fingers for certain people to get books!
”’I’ve never managed to get you out of my system.’
‘You don’t have to get me out of your system then. Not ever.’”
*I received a free, advanced copy of this book from the authors and this is my voluntary, honest review.
Bookstagram | Booktok
April 2, 2025
3.5**** stars
Solid debut with an enemies-to-lovers slow-burn romance and twin shenanigans.
RTC
Solid debut with an enemies-to-lovers slow-burn romance and twin shenanigans.
“Wait. You want us to switch?!”
RTC
April 3, 2025
Tropes: enemies to lovers, Brother's best friend, secret identity
Feels: 3.5/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: homophobia, sport/fight injuries, past death of parents, foster care experiences, third act break up (it only lasts five pages)
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: they met 3 years ago, and got off on the wrong foot. Had no romantic interest in each other. Neither are with anyone else once they hook up. There are a couple references to past hookups/relationships, but they are in the past.
3.75 stars
Xander and Nicko are 22 and in their last year of college. They play on rival hockey teams. Xander is Nicko's twin brother Nate's best friend and roommate. All three of them play hockey and want to make it to the NHL. Nicko and Xander do not get along. Nicko had a knee injury a year ago and is recovering slowly from it, he's healed physically but mentally he does not have his confidence. Nate convinces Nicko to do him a favour and pretend to be him for 2 weeks. Nicko lives with Xander and plays with him during that time, and Xander does not know about the switch up. Xander finds himself attracted to "Nate" and confused about it. When he finds out it's Nicko he's been attracted to it makes sense, because he definitely doesn't have those feelings for Nate. Nicko and Xander start something, but they don't think it can last because of hockey.
This was a pretty nice book. I liked the complexity of the dynamic between Nate, Nicko, and Xander. All three of them had really significant connections with each other. The relationship between the MMCs was full of tension, steam, and a natural building of affection. There was decent conflict. The side characters added depth to the story. I liked that Nicko's friends knew him well enough to recognize the differences between him and Nate. I liked how grumpy Nicko was and that he was kind to his students, like Milo.
The nicknames for Xander we're kind of cheesy. There were a couple typos too.
Some notable moments:
"It all falls into place now that I’ve been given the answer. Like shifting all the letters one space to the side and getting an entirely different word out of them. It hadn’t been Nate at all. “I kissed Nicko?!” I hear myself say. I feel like the shittiest friend who can’t even tell that it hasn’t been his best friend he’s been living with for– “You switched places? Since when?!” “Just since I had that stomach bug, I swear.” “Jesus Christ Nate, that was two weeks ago!”"
"I always meant to ask. When you stayed here. You brought your own mouthguard, right?
…
And cup?
:)
NICKO!"
"“And just wear your damn glasses.” Nate’s arms tighten around me as he leans into the embrace, his breath hitching next to my ear. “I don’t like them. They make me look ugly.” “We look literally the same.” “Yes, that’s how I know what they would look like on me.”"
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 3.5/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: homophobia, sport/fight injuries, past death of parents, foster care experiences, third act break up (it only lasts five pages)
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: they met 3 years ago, and got off on the wrong foot. Had no romantic interest in each other. Neither are with anyone else once they hook up. There are a couple references to past hookups/relationships, but they are in the past.
3.75 stars
Xander and Nicko are 22 and in their last year of college. They play on rival hockey teams. Xander is Nicko's twin brother Nate's best friend and roommate. All three of them play hockey and want to make it to the NHL. Nicko and Xander do not get along. Nicko had a knee injury a year ago and is recovering slowly from it, he's healed physically but mentally he does not have his confidence. Nate convinces Nicko to do him a favour and pretend to be him for 2 weeks. Nicko lives with Xander and plays with him during that time, and Xander does not know about the switch up. Xander finds himself attracted to "Nate" and confused about it. When he finds out it's Nicko he's been attracted to it makes sense, because he definitely doesn't have those feelings for Nate. Nicko and Xander start something, but they don't think it can last because of hockey.
This was a pretty nice book. I liked the complexity of the dynamic between Nate, Nicko, and Xander. All three of them had really significant connections with each other. The relationship between the MMCs was full of tension, steam, and a natural building of affection. There was decent conflict. The side characters added depth to the story. I liked that Nicko's friends knew him well enough to recognize the differences between him and Nate. I liked how grumpy Nicko was and that he was kind to his students, like Milo.
The nicknames for Xander we're kind of cheesy. There were a couple typos too.
Some notable moments:
"It all falls into place now that I’ve been given the answer. Like shifting all the letters one space to the side and getting an entirely different word out of them. It hadn’t been Nate at all. “I kissed Nicko?!” I hear myself say. I feel like the shittiest friend who can’t even tell that it hasn’t been his best friend he’s been living with for– “You switched places? Since when?!” “Just since I had that stomach bug, I swear.” “Jesus Christ Nate, that was two weeks ago!”"
"I always meant to ask. When you stayed here. You brought your own mouthguard, right?
…
And cup?
:)
NICKO!"
"“And just wear your damn glasses.” Nate’s arms tighten around me as he leans into the embrace, his breath hitching next to my ear. “I don’t like them. They make me look ugly.” “We look literally the same.” “Yes, that’s how I know what they would look like on me.”"
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2025
This was the first book of this author that I read and surely will not be the last. I loved the story building and how the characters were written.
Intense chemistry and great dialogues.
Intense chemistry and great dialogues.
March 8, 2025
It’s been a while since I lost myself in a really good hockey romance and this book did not disappoint. The Parent Trap meets hockey in A.J. Kyler’s debut novel, The Switched-Up Playbook. I was really excited for this book because the premise sounded really unique for a hockey romance.
We have twins Nicko and Nate who are both hockey players for different teams. Nicko had suffered a knee injury and had to get surgery and is nearly healed. When his twin, Nate gets sick with the stomach flu, he convinces Nicko to switch places and play to play for him instead. What turned out to be a one time thing turned into two weeks of pretending to be Nate while also sharing living spaces with his rival Xander because Xander and Nate are best friends and on the same team.
It was very entertaining to see Nicko pretend to be Nate while also being close to his rival. The whole time as Xander was unaware that Nicko is Nate, Xander thought he was crushing on his best friend when it was really Nicko. When he finally found out they switched places his feelings for Nicko changed. I loved how their dynamic chances from rivals to reluctant friends to attraction. They had really intense sexual tension and their chemistry was on fire. Their little moments together as they got to know each other more was also very sweet and I loved them together.
I loved the relationship between the twins and Xander as well. Nate and Xander are best friends but in the beginning Xander and Nicko hated each other. The three of them together really made the story.
Overall, I really enjoyed The Switched-Up Playbook and it had a nice and different spin which I really liked. Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC to read and review.
We have twins Nicko and Nate who are both hockey players for different teams. Nicko had suffered a knee injury and had to get surgery and is nearly healed. When his twin, Nate gets sick with the stomach flu, he convinces Nicko to switch places and play to play for him instead. What turned out to be a one time thing turned into two weeks of pretending to be Nate while also sharing living spaces with his rival Xander because Xander and Nate are best friends and on the same team.
It was very entertaining to see Nicko pretend to be Nate while also being close to his rival. The whole time as Xander was unaware that Nicko is Nate, Xander thought he was crushing on his best friend when it was really Nicko. When he finally found out they switched places his feelings for Nicko changed. I loved how their dynamic chances from rivals to reluctant friends to attraction. They had really intense sexual tension and their chemistry was on fire. Their little moments together as they got to know each other more was also very sweet and I loved them together.
I loved the relationship between the twins and Xander as well. Nate and Xander are best friends but in the beginning Xander and Nicko hated each other. The three of them together really made the story.
Overall, I really enjoyed The Switched-Up Playbook and it had a nice and different spin which I really liked. Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC to read and review.
March 8, 2025
3.5⭐️
Xander and his best friend Nate are on the same hockey team, and life is great! That is, until Nate gets hit with a bad flu, but desperately wants to play hockey. The solution? Nate’s identical twin Nicko takes his place.
What you can expect from this book:
- Best friend’s (twin) brother
- Mistaken identities
- Rivals to lovers
- College romance
- Personal growth
- 1st person dual POV
Though the writing style didn’t vibe with me exactly, the story was still enjoyable. There’s a lot of attention to detail in terms of personal narration. One thing I did like was how the story began, and how it wrapped up at the end was really unique and crisp.
Xander and his best friend Nate are on the same hockey team, and life is great! That is, until Nate gets hit with a bad flu, but desperately wants to play hockey. The solution? Nate’s identical twin Nicko takes his place.
What you can expect from this book:
- Best friend’s (twin) brother
- Mistaken identities
- Rivals to lovers
- College romance
- Personal growth
- 1st person dual POV
Though the writing style didn’t vibe with me exactly, the story was still enjoyable. There’s a lot of attention to detail in terms of personal narration. One thing I did like was how the story began, and how it wrapped up at the end was really unique and crisp.
May 6, 2025
I'm utterly in love with this chaotic duo.
It's been a while since I've read a good hockey MM romance so I started this one without any expectations.
I'm so freaking happy I've given it a chance.
Xander and Nicko are a beautiful couple and I loved the dynamics between them. One is a standoffish brat and the other is the greenest good boy. They couldn't be more different but they just clicked with one another in an amazing way. Two different pieces of a complicated puzzle.
I absolutely loved the low drama and the fact there wasn't any miscommunication or third-act breakup. Tbh they were more mature than most adult MMC out there who are way older than them
It's been a while since I've read a good hockey MM romance so I started this one without any expectations.
I'm so freaking happy I've given it a chance.
Xander and Nicko are a beautiful couple and I loved the dynamics between them. One is a standoffish brat and the other is the greenest good boy. They couldn't be more different but they just clicked with one another in an amazing way. Two different pieces of a complicated puzzle.
I absolutely loved the low drama and the fact there wasn't any miscommunication or third-act breakup. Tbh they were more mature than most adult MMC out there who are way older than them
April 15, 2025
Very very cute and fun!!
October 7, 2025
This was a really good debut novel. Overall I enjoyed the story.
It was really frustrating for me though. At least it got to a point. I'm in general not the biggest enemy to lovers fan but it's okay, now and then. This book just was way to focused on the enemy part for my taste. It took them sooo long to get together or at least be cordial with each other. It dragged on and on. Though I know some people don't like when the enemy part of the book is short, so I guess this one is for them.
This book is long and it felt even longer. I guess if it would have been filled with schmoopy swoony scenes I would have enjoyed this length.
When Xander finally started getting feelings for Nicko it was cute. I'm glad that he fought for him. They make a cute couple. The parts with the tiny kisses all over the face, were my favorite. It was so freaking adorable.
Eventhough it was really long, it didn't feel finished. It was a very unsatisfying end to me. I know the authors said their story isn't over but I doubt they get another book.
Don't let me discourage you though, it's a good book and the parts I disliked were totally personal preference! 3.5 ⭐
It was really frustrating for me though. At least it got to a point. I'm in general not the biggest enemy to lovers fan but it's okay, now and then. This book just was way to focused on the enemy part for my taste. It took them sooo long to get together or at least be cordial with each other. It dragged on and on. Though I know some people don't like when the enemy part of the book is short, so I guess this one is for them.
This book is long and it felt even longer. I guess if it would have been filled with schmoopy swoony scenes I would have enjoyed this length.
When Xander finally started getting feelings for Nicko it was cute. I'm glad that he fought for him. They make a cute couple. The parts with the tiny kisses all over the face, were my favorite. It was so freaking adorable.
Eventhough it was really long, it didn't feel finished. It was a very unsatisfying end to me. I know the authors said their story isn't over but I doubt they get another book.
Don't let me discourage you though, it's a good book and the parts I disliked were totally personal preference! 3.5 ⭐
April 7, 2025
I've been waiting a while for this book, and I can say I'm not disappointed!
I saw a TikTok about this book and from the moment the plot was describe I already knew I was going to love it: Brothers best friend, enemies to lovers, hockey and a crazy idea between twins. YES, SIGN ME UP!
I couldn't stop reading; it's a very well developed rivals-to-lovers romance. I loved the tension and chemistry between Nicko and Xander, the development of their relationship, and the full circle ending they had. I can say I want more from this couple, and I'm eagerly awaiting more books from these authors.
Moments like this one are what makes me want more from this couple: “Xander just stares at me for a moment and then, just as I think he might have changed his mind, he kisses me. Not once, not twice, but all over. Tiny little pecks that cover my eyelids and nose, my forehead and brows, my jawline and chin, until I have to fight him off with laughter.”
“Of course I love you, Lexi. I’ve never managed to get you out of my system.”
“You don’t have to get me out of your system. Not ever.”
I saw a TikTok about this book and from the moment the plot was describe I already knew I was going to love it: Brothers best friend, enemies to lovers, hockey and a crazy idea between twins. YES, SIGN ME UP!
I couldn't stop reading; it's a very well developed rivals-to-lovers romance. I loved the tension and chemistry between Nicko and Xander, the development of their relationship, and the full circle ending they had. I can say I want more from this couple, and I'm eagerly awaiting more books from these authors.
Moments like this one are what makes me want more from this couple: “Xander just stares at me for a moment and then, just as I think he might have changed his mind, he kisses me. Not once, not twice, but all over. Tiny little pecks that cover my eyelids and nose, my forehead and brows, my jawline and chin, until I have to fight him off with laughter.”
“Of course I love you, Lexi. I’ve never managed to get you out of my system.”
“You don’t have to get me out of your system. Not ever.”
April 3, 2025
Ice hockey? Rivals to lovers? Some twin switching? Other fun? Yes, please!
This was such a fun one! I really liked the the twins bond and their very different relationship with Xander. And I'm a sucker for found family which was in there as well!
I really liked seeing everything grow between Nicko and Xander. And the way Nicko found himself again.
This was such a fun one! I really liked the the twins bond and their very different relationship with Xander. And I'm a sucker for found family which was in there as well!
I really liked seeing everything grow between Nicko and Xander. And the way Nicko found himself again.
March 31, 2025
i really enjoyed this!!
April 9, 2025
Enemies to lovers - Brother’s best friend - Twins switching places. This was a cute read and I liked the dynamic between the characters.
May 12, 2025
2☆ cap 10 pag 75 por el momento... Luego lo retomaré, Por ahora queda en Pausa creo que no estoy en el momento para leer este libro ademas no se quien narra cada cap sus pov son idénticos y no logro avanzar
August 15, 2025
“But I have to, Nicko. I have to make sure that if you walk away from me, you at least know how utterly, stupidly in love I am with you.”
a solid debut effort, i'm excited to see what this writing duo comes up with next.
April 3, 2025
This book was PHENOMENAL. Nicko and Xander were so freaking adorable. Xander is genuinely a golden retriever and a complete ball of sunshine; he was so sweet and supportive throughout the entire book. It took me some time to warm up to Nicko but when I did I just wanted to hug him. He’s the personification of a black cat but once you look beyond his competitive streak and at times misunderstanding with words, he has a heart of gold. Seeing the love between Nicko and Nate was also so special, Nate was not only a wonderful friend to Xander but the best brother. I could feel the love the twins had for each other throughout every chapter.
Xander had a challenging upbringing with the loss of his parents but was adopted by two loving mothers. Navigating foster care and financial struggles didn’t take away from Xander’s love of hockey. Nicko grew up in a different world with parents heavily involved in Hockey. He’d always envisioned himself playing in the NHL with his identical twin but a debilitating injury threatens his future. These two have a rough start and it’s hate at first site. Watching Xander and Nicko start off as enemies and fall for each other over the course of their time in college was heartwarming.
This book addressed some heavy topics but I loved Xander’s advocacy and refusal to let injustice slide. His patience with Nicko was also just… UGH SO CUTE. I want to reread this book, I literally devoured it over the course of a day 😭
Xander had a challenging upbringing with the loss of his parents but was adopted by two loving mothers. Navigating foster care and financial struggles didn’t take away from Xander’s love of hockey. Nicko grew up in a different world with parents heavily involved in Hockey. He’d always envisioned himself playing in the NHL with his identical twin but a debilitating injury threatens his future. These two have a rough start and it’s hate at first site. Watching Xander and Nicko start off as enemies and fall for each other over the course of their time in college was heartwarming.
This book addressed some heavy topics but I loved Xander’s advocacy and refusal to let injustice slide. His patience with Nicko was also just… UGH SO CUTE. I want to reread this book, I literally devoured it over the course of a day 😭
March 16, 2025
This is an absolute must read if you are looking for an MM hockey romance. Nicko and Xander are the definition of enemies to lovers but man is it so worth all the hate. So y’all know the drill, grab your blanket, a snack, your favorite drink, and get comfy cause you’ll be sucked into this book.
Xander and Nicko have known each other since freshman year of college. Xander tried to become friends since they were both drafted by the same NHL team but Nicko had no interest. The only thing making these two semi stand each other was Nicko’s twin brother Nate, who just happened to be Xander’s roommate.
Nicko is extremely close with his brother and would do anything for him. Even if that something means potentially putting his hockey career at risk by switching places with his brother for a few weeks. Nicko thought he could get in and out without anyone knowing. What he didn’t expect was for his long time enemy to stir up feelings.
🏒Rivals-to-Lovers
🏒Brother's Best Friend
🏒Mistaken Identity
🏒Forced Proximity
🏒Locker Room 🌶️
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Xander and Nicko have known each other since freshman year of college. Xander tried to become friends since they were both drafted by the same NHL team but Nicko had no interest. The only thing making these two semi stand each other was Nicko’s twin brother Nate, who just happened to be Xander’s roommate.
Nicko is extremely close with his brother and would do anything for him. Even if that something means potentially putting his hockey career at risk by switching places with his brother for a few weeks. Nicko thought he could get in and out without anyone knowing. What he didn’t expect was for his long time enemy to stir up feelings.
🏒Rivals-to-Lovers
🏒Brother's Best Friend
🏒Mistaken Identity
🏒Forced Proximity
🏒Locker Room 🌶️
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
April 17, 2025
DNF @ 43%
God, this book just needed you to suspend so much disbelief that I finally had to stop because I couldn't do it anymore.
Swapping places as full grown adult twins? Sure.
Believing that they somehow managed to take on each other's course loads in their final year of college. Ok.
Nicko and Nate acting like they barely know each other even though they supposedly are close enough to try and have meals together regularly? Fine.
But having their respective best friends not be offended or hurt at the obvious deception (Linden not showing any signs of real animosity vs Nick and Hart not being mad at Nate for the clear and obvious betrayal) was too much.
Don't even get me started on the fact that we're 43% of the way through, and the only romantic scene has been the one kiss between Xander and Nicko (when he was still pretending to be Nate.)
It's not a slow burn if there's literally zero romance.
Also, fuck Nicko for telling Xander he was just a diversity pick and doubling down on it in multiple scenes.
God, this book just needed you to suspend so much disbelief that I finally had to stop because I couldn't do it anymore.
Swapping places as full grown adult twins? Sure.
Believing that they somehow managed to take on each other's course loads in their final year of college. Ok.
Nicko and Nate acting like they barely know each other even though they supposedly are close enough to try and have meals together regularly? Fine.
But having their respective best friends not be offended or hurt at the obvious deception (Linden not showing any signs of real animosity vs Nick and Hart not being mad at Nate for the clear and obvious betrayal) was too much.
Don't even get me started on the fact that we're 43% of the way through, and the only romantic scene has been the one kiss between Xander and Nicko (when he was still pretending to be Nate.)
It's not a slow burn if there's literally zero romance.
Also, fuck Nicko for telling Xander he was just a diversity pick and doubling down on it in multiple scenes.
May 19, 2025
story of Nicko and Xander
This is a best friend’s brother to more romance, featuring Nicko and Xander, and is book one in the Bats and Badgers series.
Nicko wants to focus on hockey and proving he’s ready for the NHL, but things get messy when he secretly switches with his twin and has to live with his twin’s best friend, Xander—his longtime rival. Xander is dealing with his best friend Nate pulling away, but it’s not Nate, it’s Nicko.
This was a pretty low angst story and the rivalry between Nicko and Xander was fantastic - lots of heat and great banter.
I am interested to see who will be in book two. Is it just me, or did it feel like Nate and his English professor might have something going on? (Wishful thinking!).
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM sports romance
Different colleges
Best friend’s brother
Rival hockey players
Secret twin swap
Forced proximity
Temporary roommates
Twin secret revealed
Banter
Spicy times
Dates & exploration
Little bit of homophobia
Found family
HEA
This is a best friend’s brother to more romance, featuring Nicko and Xander, and is book one in the Bats and Badgers series.
Nicko wants to focus on hockey and proving he’s ready for the NHL, but things get messy when he secretly switches with his twin and has to live with his twin’s best friend, Xander—his longtime rival. Xander is dealing with his best friend Nate pulling away, but it’s not Nate, it’s Nicko.
This was a pretty low angst story and the rivalry between Nicko and Xander was fantastic - lots of heat and great banter.
I am interested to see who will be in book two. Is it just me, or did it feel like Nate and his English professor might have something going on? (Wishful thinking!).
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM sports romance
Different colleges
Best friend’s brother
Rival hockey players
Secret twin swap
Forced proximity
Temporary roommates
Twin secret revealed
Banter
Spicy times
Dates & exploration
Little bit of homophobia
Found family
HEA
April 3, 2025
This was such a cute read with little to no angst. It had me hooked from the very beginning. I really enjoyed the dynamic changes between Xander and Nicko. The way it was written didnt feel rushed and made the relationship more authentic. They started off as enemies and slowly progressed from there, and I enjoyed reading every word. Once we got to the lovers part of the trope, I could not stop smiling. They were so cute and even before they got together, their banter was adorable. I also loved Nicko's relationship with his twin, Nate. My worst fear when reading a "brothers best friend/ best friends brother" is the possibility of a gap in the friendship. I was very pleased to find out Nate was totally cool with it... after he went all big brother on Xander lol. Overall, the authors did a fantastic job with this book and I'm looking forward to reading whatever they put out next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2025
Oof!
Enemies to lovers is probably my favourite trope! Throw in a little bestfriends brother meets twin switcharoo and colour me impressed, you shoot straight to the top of my TBR!
I was so nervous going into this books because I really, really wanted it to be good! Let me tell you Xander and Nicko *chefs kiss*!
The way they couldnt decide whether they wanted to maul each other with fists or affection! Is my true weakness!
So many beautiful moments within these pages, aswell as some harsh truths and self reflection all round. All those moments blending with those that made my heart melt, the back and forth banter between not only MMCs bjt side character too, the snark that starts from the very first page and continues throughout out the entire body is exactly how i love my enemies to lovers.
Sign me up for 10 more please!
Enemies to lovers is probably my favourite trope! Throw in a little bestfriends brother meets twin switcharoo and colour me impressed, you shoot straight to the top of my TBR!
I was so nervous going into this books because I really, really wanted it to be good! Let me tell you Xander and Nicko *chefs kiss*!
The way they couldnt decide whether they wanted to maul each other with fists or affection! Is my true weakness!
So many beautiful moments within these pages, aswell as some harsh truths and self reflection all round. All those moments blending with those that made my heart melt, the back and forth banter between not only MMCs bjt side character too, the snark that starts from the very first page and continues throughout out the entire body is exactly how i love my enemies to lovers.
Sign me up for 10 more please!
September 21, 2025
I got kindly asked to read and review this & I’m so glad I did I mean who doesn’t love a good hockey enemies to lovers romance ❤️🔥 Xander & Nicko are literally enemies from the very get go but are in each other lives because of Nate, who is Xander best friend and Nicko’s twin brother! The brothers do the ultimate twin thing and switch places for abit and Nicko has to room with Xander (without him knowing). At first I thought this was gonna be the whole book but it wasn’t which I was super happy about because then we got to explore a lot about these boys and the tension between them wouldn’t let me put the book down. These two are explosive on & off the ice and I highly recommend if you love to read hockey romances.. It’s enemies to lovers, brothers best friend, & twin switching goodness
April 6, 2025
4.75*
I really liked this! I was really excited to read it when I heard about it and it definitely surpassed my expectations. Nicko and Xander were great together! I loved how their relationship developed and the whole twin switcheroo thing. Nicko trying to be Nate was pretty entertaining 😂. There were a few little things that confused me while reading this but otherwise I had a great time and I’m excited for the next book!
I really liked this! I was really excited to read it when I heard about it and it definitely surpassed my expectations. Nicko and Xander were great together! I loved how their relationship developed and the whole twin switcheroo thing. Nicko trying to be Nate was pretty entertaining 😂. There were a few little things that confused me while reading this but otherwise I had a great time and I’m excited for the next book!
March 13, 2025
ARC Review:
I loved how Nicko and Xander got over their differences and fell in love and the way they had such a happy support system around them! The parts which I loved the most were definitely Nicko and Xander being in love being in denial (if you get what I mean)... All in all, a great story, one that I would come back to one day to re-read.
I loved how Nicko and Xander got over their differences and fell in love and the way they had such a happy support system around them! The parts which I loved the most were definitely Nicko and Xander being in love being in denial (if you get what I mean)... All in all, a great story, one that I would come back to one day to re-read.
April 1, 2025
When i tell you, this book got me out of my reading dip..
I loved everything about it, it's funny but still an absolut comfort read with deep topics.
Xander and Nicko have my heart!
I loved everything about it, it's funny but still an absolut comfort read with deep topics.
Xander and Nicko have my heart!
March 31, 2025
This is my ARC review of The Switched Up Playbook, the debut novel by AJ Kyler. I enjoyed the book very much. Xander & Nico's chemistry was so good. I liked the book was an eniemes to lovers hockey romance and twin switcheroo, best friend's brother romance.
I enjoyed the twins switching places reveal was not dragged out.
I loved how Xander and Nico realize they have good chemistry once they over their animosity, which was cause by miscommunication. Once these two started kiss to and open up emotionally to eac other it was sky's the limit for these. Xander and Nico had good spicy chemistry scenes. The locker room scene was hot! 🔥
I think it's great Nate was supportive of Xander and Nico's relationship.
Nate was a good secondary character. He was a great brother to his Nico and great best friend to Xander.
I also loved the hockey scenes in this book. Xander and Nico even had good chemistry on the ice, too.
I'm glad Xander and Nico got their HEA.
Fav Character - Nico
Quote - Nico calling Xander "Xanxan and Lexi" I adore the pet names
Overall Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy Rating - 🌶 🌶 🌶
I received an ARC of this book. This is my honest review.
I enjoyed the twins switching places reveal was not dragged out.
I loved how Xander and Nico realize they have good chemistry once they over their animosity, which was cause by miscommunication. Once these two started kiss to and open up emotionally to eac other it was sky's the limit for these. Xander and Nico had good spicy chemistry scenes. The locker room scene was hot! 🔥
I think it's great Nate was supportive of Xander and Nico's relationship.
Nate was a good secondary character. He was a great brother to his Nico and great best friend to Xander.
I also loved the hockey scenes in this book. Xander and Nico even had good chemistry on the ice, too.
I'm glad Xander and Nico got their HEA.
Fav Character - Nico
Quote - Nico calling Xander "Xanxan and Lexi" I adore the pet names
Overall Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy Rating - 🌶 🌶 🌶
I received an ARC of this book. This is my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2025
OMG the banter in this book was top tier!!!!! The ending left me with questions about their future but the note at the end does say their story’s not over so hopefully there will be a second book and I’m hoping it will follow Nate but also give answers on Nicko and XanXan! I loved Nate’s and XanXan’s team but Fuck Nickos team they were awful I felt so bad for him!! I loved his coach though he was a good dude and I loved seeing him interact with Milo his coach’s son it was cute how he looked up to him!
June 30, 2025
I expected more to be honest; the couple have no chemistry and the story was missing so much it would be so much better if they used the switch part deferentially or it was more longer
I really wanted to love this and i was excited to read it but ……..
I really wanted to love this and i was excited to read it but ……..
July 22, 2025
oh brother
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