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Enforcers #2
Penalty Zone
Caleb
It’s fine. Everything’s fine. I can handle working with Leo Griffin—my idol, my secret obsession… and my best friend’s dad. No big deal.
Except his amber eyes track me like prey, and every glance makes me want to drop to my knees and submit. I can resist. It’s the only option. He’d never want someone like me anyway… right?
Leo
The complication of Caleb Benz blindsides me, rattling my core. I came to New York for my son Mason, but his best friend steals my attention. I misjudged Caleb. Now, the more I get to know him, the harder it is to stay away. He’s the perfect balance of exuberance and discipline, a fierce competitor with soft edges who shows me how to have fun.
He’s the sun, unconsciously pulling me into his orbit and impossible to escape. Falling for him will ruin everything. But for one taste, for one night… I’m willing to burn.
Penalty Zone is the book 2 in the Enforcers MM Hockey Romance series. age-gap, best friend’s dad, off-limits, daddy vibes, and family drama.
It’s fine. Everything’s fine. I can handle working with Leo Griffin—my idol, my secret obsession… and my best friend’s dad. No big deal.
Except his amber eyes track me like prey, and every glance makes me want to drop to my knees and submit. I can resist. It’s the only option. He’d never want someone like me anyway… right?
Leo
The complication of Caleb Benz blindsides me, rattling my core. I came to New York for my son Mason, but his best friend steals my attention. I misjudged Caleb. Now, the more I get to know him, the harder it is to stay away. He’s the perfect balance of exuberance and discipline, a fierce competitor with soft edges who shows me how to have fun.
He’s the sun, unconsciously pulling me into his orbit and impossible to escape. Falling for him will ruin everything. But for one taste, for one night… I’m willing to burn.
Penalty Zone is the book 2 in the Enforcers MM Hockey Romance series. age-gap, best friend’s dad, off-limits, daddy vibes, and family drama.
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2025
About the author
Heather Leighson
10 books132 followersHeather has always been an obsessive reader and is prone to staying up all night to binge books. Follow me on BooKBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/heath...
She’s a skeptic, a hopeless romantic, a jaded book addict, and in love with love.
Heather's books contain spicy scenes with a bit of kink, lots of heart, and angst to make the happily ever after even sweeter. Heather falls madly in love with her leading men and hopes you will too. She creates stories to take readers on a journey of broken men finding and accepting love. She believes everyone deserves their happy ending especially people who have been hurt or denied love in the past. Love is the best human experience.
Heather read her first romance that she snuck off her mother’s bookshelf as a pre-teen. Her favorite books break her heart and then put it back together. She wants to do the same, so her goal is to write books that unbreak your heart.
She’s a skeptic, a hopeless romantic, a jaded book addict, and in love with love.
Heather's books contain spicy scenes with a bit of kink, lots of heart, and angst to make the happily ever after even sweeter. Heather falls madly in love with her leading men and hopes you will too. She creates stories to take readers on a journey of broken men finding and accepting love. She believes everyone deserves their happy ending especially people who have been hurt or denied love in the past. Love is the best human experience.
Heather read her first romance that she snuck off her mother’s bookshelf as a pre-teen. Her favorite books break her heart and then put it back together. She wants to do the same, so her goal is to write books that unbreak your heart.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
Did Not Finish
May 23, 2026D.n.f.@58%
Age gap is a tricky trope to write, add in the best friend's dad, while he's trying to make things right with his son, and being his coach, and you already have a difficult time being believable. But then add in the bdsm Daddy trope and the cringe starts to set in. This just did not work for me. There were more reasons for them to be apart than to be together.
Age gap is a tricky trope to write, add in the best friend's dad, while he's trying to make things right with his son, and being his coach, and you already have a difficult time being believable. But then add in the bdsm Daddy trope and the cringe starts to set in. This just did not work for me. There were more reasons for them to be apart than to be together.
February 20, 2026
So before Caleb and Leo got together, this book was honestly a little confusing and hard to follow. Things were happening off page and not being explained well. But the issue pretty much was resolved when they got together.
I really liked the way this author wrote the sex scenes, I thought they were well done.
However, the third act break up I was not a fan of. It wasn’t necessary imo, but then again I’d never advocate for a third act break up so maybe I’m biased 🤷♀️
Now when it comes to mason….i was verrrrry disappointed in him. What he did honestly in my opinion was attempted murder. Shooting a solid puck at someone’s face/neck area at 100 miles per hour could kill that person. And he did it on purpose!!! Because he was mad about them being together. It really pissed me off and he should’ve been fired and Caleb and Leo should’ve been way more mad. Leo should’ve been mad period because he wasn’t mad at all. Like your son broke your fucking jaw because he was mad and you’re not even going to reprimand him…yeah I wasn’t a fan of that.
So this book would’ve been 3, maybe 3.5 stars at the end if it hadn’t been for the bonus chapters which bumped it up to 4. Those were so cute and cemented Caleb and Leo as a couple for me. Oh and I also loved that Caleb called Leo, lovie, I thought it was cute
I really liked the way this author wrote the sex scenes, I thought they were well done.
However, the third act break up I was not a fan of. It wasn’t necessary imo, but then again I’d never advocate for a third act break up so maybe I’m biased 🤷♀️
Now when it comes to mason….i was verrrrry disappointed in him. What he did honestly in my opinion was attempted murder. Shooting a solid puck at someone’s face/neck area at 100 miles per hour could kill that person. And he did it on purpose!!! Because he was mad about them being together. It really pissed me off and he should’ve been fired and Caleb and Leo should’ve been way more mad. Leo should’ve been mad period because he wasn’t mad at all. Like your son broke your fucking jaw because he was mad and you’re not even going to reprimand him…yeah I wasn’t a fan of that.
So this book would’ve been 3, maybe 3.5 stars at the end if it hadn’t been for the bonus chapters which bumped it up to 4. Those were so cute and cemented Caleb and Leo as a couple for me. Oh and I also loved that Caleb called Leo, lovie, I thought it was cute
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 7, 2025
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and Heather Leighson for the e-ARC of Penalty Zone in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked the main characters in this, especially Caleb, he was such a golden retriever, sunshine boy. And equally Leo was a typical grump who had a soft spot for his son’s best friend. I also really liked the relationship between Caleb and Leo; they were a lot of fun and equally was very hot together and the daddy kink was an added extra element of deliciousness. Unfortunately, I wasn’t in love with the plot; it didn’t really work for me. I don’t know if that’s just to do with the writing, but just felt a little disjointed and choppy.
I really liked the main characters in this, especially Caleb, he was such a golden retriever, sunshine boy. And equally Leo was a typical grump who had a soft spot for his son’s best friend. I also really liked the relationship between Caleb and Leo; they were a lot of fun and equally was very hot together and the daddy kink was an added extra element of deliciousness. Unfortunately, I wasn’t in love with the plot; it didn’t really work for me. I don’t know if that’s just to do with the writing, but just felt a little disjointed and choppy.
June 11, 2025
SOOO cute. So sweet. Such a quick and easy read that sure was maybe a little bit predictable but it didn't take away from my experience reading what so ever. Heather Leighson is officially a queen of LGBTQ+ writing for me. She describes the MC's emotions and thoughts so well that even if you don't personally identify as anything but straight, you'll still feel the inner turmoil and it creates such a connection to their relationship.
I personally love a good forbidden, age gap romance. Not only does this book accurately describe why age doesn't have to matter, but these characters are also not afraid to talk to each other and be emotionally vulnerable with themselves and with their friends. It was refreshing to read something that felt like it could be really realistic and had genuine reactions and problem resolution instead of the dreaded miscommunication trope.
Leo and Caleb have my heart and I cannot wait to see them grow even more together in the rest of the series!!! Thank you Victory Editing and NetGalley for the eARC. I can't wait to read the next book!
I personally love a good forbidden, age gap romance. Not only does this book accurately describe why age doesn't have to matter, but these characters are also not afraid to talk to each other and be emotionally vulnerable with themselves and with their friends. It was refreshing to read something that felt like it could be really realistic and had genuine reactions and problem resolution instead of the dreaded miscommunication trope.
Leo and Caleb have my heart and I cannot wait to see them grow even more together in the rest of the series!!! Thank you Victory Editing and NetGalley for the eARC. I can't wait to read the next book!
June 14, 2025
On paper, this book had everything to become a favorite of my 2025 reading list. Unfortunately, I was disappointed and even struggled to finish it even though it was a really short read.
The beginning was honestly a bit of a dumpster fire, there were a lot of names but no context, this was just a poorly done in medias res start. Despite that, I soon came to like Caleb and his chapters, so I forgave it until I realized that I hated Leo and the way he was written with all my heart. His insta-lust felt icky and his instant obsession cannot be the basis for the healthy relation the author was trying to sell us. Five pages in, and he was already hard just looking at him and had told us about three times how green Caleb’s eyes were. A lot of his reactions were also very excessive and came off as unhinged.
The writing itself probably had a lot to do with it, but I never rooted for them, not for one second of this book. This always felt like a very unbalanced relationship and this is the first time I’m reading an age-gap book where the gap was so obvious and cringe.
Most of the book was telling, not showing. Leo felt cold, even when he realized he was in the wrong about something, there was never a focus on his emotions or feelings, it was just facts stated about what he did wrong and what he should do to correct it. This also made the dirty talk especially cringy to me.
I think this author is honestly just not for me.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this e-ARC.
The beginning was honestly a bit of a dumpster fire, there were a lot of names but no context, this was just a poorly done in medias res start. Despite that, I soon came to like Caleb and his chapters, so I forgave it until I realized that I hated Leo and the way he was written with all my heart. His insta-lust felt icky and his instant obsession cannot be the basis for the healthy relation the author was trying to sell us. Five pages in, and he was already hard just looking at him and had told us about three times how green Caleb’s eyes were. A lot of his reactions were also very excessive and came off as unhinged.
The writing itself probably had a lot to do with it, but I never rooted for them, not for one second of this book. This always felt like a very unbalanced relationship and this is the first time I’m reading an age-gap book where the gap was so obvious and cringe.
Most of the book was telling, not showing. Leo felt cold, even when he realized he was in the wrong about something, there was never a focus on his emotions or feelings, it was just facts stated about what he did wrong and what he should do to correct it. This also made the dirty talk especially cringy to me.
I think this author is honestly just not for me.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this e-ARC.
June 27, 2025
4/5 stars 4/5 spice
Heather sure knows how to write spice. Their dom X sub dynamic was fun and filled with passion. I usually get the ick when MCs call their older lover ‘daddy’ but with Caleb, it was kind of cutesy. Maybe I just love Caleb too much.
Caleb was quite the character. Without him this book wouldn’t have been what it was. I loved his quirkiness and unfiltered comments. He was so open and supportive of everyone. I’m glad Leo embraced all of his quirks, that scene where they talk about Caleb’s crystals was so heartwarming.
Leo was more closed off and opened up more once he started spending more time with Caleb. He was a pretty crappy dad, but he was trying to fix the strained relationship with his son. I liked how we got to see him become more carefree and how he calmed down Caleb with his anxiety.
I wish some scenes were shown rather than talked about or implied, like their conversations about their relationship as it progressed and where it was going.
I’m excited for the rest of the series as the team is filled with interesting and loveable characters. I can’t wait for Gray and Ace’s book next after reading the bonus scene.
- Age gap
- Best friends dad
- Hockey mentor
- Secret hook ups
- Dom x sub
- Retired hockey legend goalie X backup hockey goalie
Heather sure knows how to write spice. Their dom X sub dynamic was fun and filled with passion. I usually get the ick when MCs call their older lover ‘daddy’ but with Caleb, it was kind of cutesy. Maybe I just love Caleb too much.
Caleb was quite the character. Without him this book wouldn’t have been what it was. I loved his quirkiness and unfiltered comments. He was so open and supportive of everyone. I’m glad Leo embraced all of his quirks, that scene where they talk about Caleb’s crystals was so heartwarming.
Leo was more closed off and opened up more once he started spending more time with Caleb. He was a pretty crappy dad, but he was trying to fix the strained relationship with his son. I liked how we got to see him become more carefree and how he calmed down Caleb with his anxiety.
I wish some scenes were shown rather than talked about or implied, like their conversations about their relationship as it progressed and where it was going.
I’m excited for the rest of the series as the team is filled with interesting and loveable characters. I can’t wait for Gray and Ace’s book next after reading the bonus scene.
- Age gap
- Best friends dad
- Hockey mentor
- Secret hook ups
- Dom x sub
- Retired hockey legend goalie X backup hockey goalie
June 19, 2025
Thank you, Heather, for my copy of Penalty Zone; book 2 in Enforcers MM Hockey series. It can be read as a standalone but Heather's books are not only same universe the characters are interwoven. I loved Caleb from the beginning & his sayings made me smile. Penalty Zone is the first time we meet Leo Griffin. He is Mason 'Grif' Griffin's Dad & a retired NHL Goalie.
Whenever it's Best Friends Dad, I'm on tenterhooks for how/when the best friend is going to find out & how they will react. You know that it's never going to be the way the couple planned. Heather didn't disappoint & my heart hurt for a few chapters. Want to know why? You'll have to read Penalty Zone.
🏒 Hockey
🏒 Dual POV
🏒 Age Gap
🏒 Off Limits
🏒 Family Drama
🏒 Forever Love
🏒 First Times
🏒 Pining
🏒 Best Friends Dad
🏒 Epilogue
🏒 Bonus Content
Whenever it's Best Friends Dad, I'm on tenterhooks for how/when the best friend is going to find out & how they will react. You know that it's never going to be the way the couple planned. Heather didn't disappoint & my heart hurt for a few chapters. Want to know why? You'll have to read Penalty Zone.
🏒 Hockey
🏒 Dual POV
🏒 Age Gap
🏒 Off Limits
🏒 Family Drama
🏒 Forever Love
🏒 First Times
🏒 Pining
🏒 Best Friends Dad
🏒 Epilogue
🏒 Bonus Content
June 28, 2025
rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
feelings: 😭🥰🥵😍🫠😡😄
I love Heather's books! She writes wonderful characters and embeds it all in a hot, exciting story. She tends to break your heart, only to heal it in a swoony way.
Although Penalty Zone is a slow burn book, the heat level rises very early on! Caleb is an utterly lovable character. Leo is his best friend's hot dad and has been his object of admiration forever. When he is hired as his personal trainer, his desire for a romantic relationship with the sexy silver fox seems within reach.
Leo accepts his engagement as Caleb's trainer partly in order to repair his relationship with his son. His growing feelings for the son's best friend presents him with a major challenge.
I love it when I meet characters I already love in a series and learn more about other supporting characters. It makes me so curious about their story. My favorite in Penalty Zone is Caleb's mom!
I can't wait to hold the next book in the series in my hand!
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
feelings: 😭🥰🥵😍🫠😡😄
I love Heather's books! She writes wonderful characters and embeds it all in a hot, exciting story. She tends to break your heart, only to heal it in a swoony way.
Although Penalty Zone is a slow burn book, the heat level rises very early on! Caleb is an utterly lovable character. Leo is his best friend's hot dad and has been his object of admiration forever. When he is hired as his personal trainer, his desire for a romantic relationship with the sexy silver fox seems within reach.
Leo accepts his engagement as Caleb's trainer partly in order to repair his relationship with his son. His growing feelings for the son's best friend presents him with a major challenge.
I love it when I meet characters I already love in a series and learn more about other supporting characters. It makes me so curious about their story. My favorite in Penalty Zone is Caleb's mom!
I can't wait to hold the next book in the series in my hand!
June 19, 2025
I really enjoyed this one! It pulled me in from beginning to end and held my attention the entire time. I loved Caleb! He definitely has some of that golden retriever personality and is just so sweet and wants to please and not disappoint. I loved getting to know him better as we have seen him in previous books in the series, book 1 and prequel, as he is the back up goalie but he is just so sweet and wants the best for everybody. He wants his team to succeed and not let them down and ready and willing to do his part to help them out, whatever that may be. I also enjoyed getting to know Leo and the different side that Caleb brings out of him. Leo is Caleb's best friend's dad and they don't have the best relationship so Caleb has absolutely kept his obsession to himself. Leo was a great NHL goalie and Caleb has been drawn to him since he was a teenager. I love how these two compliment each other. Leo starts picking up on it very quickly and it definitely lights his fire but he is trying to keep a distance and avoid that at first because he wants to build a relationship with his son and knows it's his sons best friend. Leo has the dominant personality and Caleb is the sub that loves to please. I really enjoyed watching these two come together and the way that they balance each other out. They both have a hard time and try and avoid the feelings, draw and chemistry they have to each other as they don't want to hurt son/best friend. Their kinks absolutely compliment each other and once they take the leap and things happen, the actual relationship between them goes well. They communicate well and really do fit together but they have to figure out their relationship and connection in regards to Mason (son/best friend). Caleb also deals with anxiety and ADHD and I thought it was handled well. I enjoyed that Caleb had his own way of trying to manage and deal with it and the way that Leo picked up on that and helped to settle and balance Caleb within that and the comfort and security that he provides. I really enjoyed this one and getting to know the characters/team better and seeing past couples as well and am really excited for the couple coming next as well as the rest of the series! I really and truly loved these two and am falling in love with this team and can't wait for more.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
June 27, 2025
Penalty Zone by Heather Leighson
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Rating: 5/5
Spice: 4/5
Characters: 5/5
Releasedate: June 28th of 2025
🏒Hockey
🏒Age-gap
🏒Off-limits
🏒Best Friends dad
🏒First times
🏒Dual POV
This Is book 2 in the Enforcers MM Hockey series, and It was just as amazing as the first!
I was really looking forward to Leo and Caleb’s love story.
I personally love a forbidden, age gap romance. This book was so sweet and quick to read I really enjoyed myself.
It was refreshing to read about two characters that aren’t afraid to talk about the hard stuff, it read like it could be real and not just the miscommunication trope because unlike many people I really dread It every time I read about It.
It was also very nice to see the relationship between Leo and his son mason grow.
Thank you for letting me read this ARC, I can’t wait for the rest of the series!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Rating: 5/5
Spice: 4/5
Characters: 5/5
Releasedate: June 28th of 2025
🏒Hockey
🏒Age-gap
🏒Off-limits
🏒Best Friends dad
🏒First times
🏒Dual POV
This Is book 2 in the Enforcers MM Hockey series, and It was just as amazing as the first!
I was really looking forward to Leo and Caleb’s love story.
I personally love a forbidden, age gap romance. This book was so sweet and quick to read I really enjoyed myself.
It was refreshing to read about two characters that aren’t afraid to talk about the hard stuff, it read like it could be real and not just the miscommunication trope because unlike many people I really dread It every time I read about It.
It was also very nice to see the relationship between Leo and his son mason grow.
Thank you for letting me read this ARC, I can’t wait for the rest of the series!
June 5, 2025
Did I stay up entirely too late the night I received this book so that I can finish it and wanna go? Yes yes I absolutely did. Do I have any regrets whatsoever? only that I can’t read it for the first time again. Heather Leighson wows again. This book is amazing. By page 2 I was already giggling and kicking my feet. There’s the characters that we love from the first book and there are brand new characters to love. There is hockey. There is adorable little pet names there is some naughty undertones. But there’s really deep and complex Father/son relationships, and best friend relationships, and romantic relationships. The ADHD representation is spot on, and I felt like I could connect with it in ways that not many authors are really able to capture. I laughed at different dynamics, I got angry at characters for things that they said or things that they did, I swooned over certain things that were said, and I even cried at some of the more intense moments. I absolutely loved this book, I love this series and I cannot wait for the next one. I received an advanced reader copy of this book which really just means that I have more time to read it again before I start discussing it with people as they’re reading it.
July 4, 2025
4.5☆
This felt like a very quick and easy read to me. I loved being back with the Enforcers and seeing more of everyone. I really enjoyed Caleb and Leo together, I loved the caretaking aspect and Leo's possessiveness. I really enjoyed how their relationship played out and how they got to their happily ever after. I loved the dynamic between them, and I also enjoyed Caleb's flirtiness.
Caleb was so sweet and cute, while also dealing with anxiety. I loved how Leo could help somewhat quiet his mind, give him structure and channel his energy.
I really enjoyed how possessive and obsessed Leo was. As expected, Mason-Leo's son and Caleb's best friend- needed some time to acclimate to the situation.
There was a great amount of funny banter in this book, which I thouroughly enjoyed.
This was a funny, sweet, swoony and emotional story between a current hockey goalie and a retired one, with the added goodnes of one of the main characters being the dad of the best friend of the other main characters.
This felt like a very quick and easy read to me. I loved being back with the Enforcers and seeing more of everyone. I really enjoyed Caleb and Leo together, I loved the caretaking aspect and Leo's possessiveness. I really enjoyed how their relationship played out and how they got to their happily ever after. I loved the dynamic between them, and I also enjoyed Caleb's flirtiness.
Caleb was so sweet and cute, while also dealing with anxiety. I loved how Leo could help somewhat quiet his mind, give him structure and channel his energy.
I really enjoyed how possessive and obsessed Leo was. As expected, Mason-Leo's son and Caleb's best friend- needed some time to acclimate to the situation.
There was a great amount of funny banter in this book, which I thouroughly enjoyed.
This was a funny, sweet, swoony and emotional story between a current hockey goalie and a retired one, with the added goodnes of one of the main characters being the dad of the best friend of the other main characters.
June 30, 2025
Caleb was a really delightful golden retriever type, but also really sensitive and desperate to keep everyone happy. Leo finally realised what a selfish person he had been all his life, but even with the growth, there were quite a few moments where he still put himself first. Their complicated growing relationship really felt like two people trying to make it work. The first part could have been a bit shorter for me. I liked that the focus wasn't too much on the age gap.
June 27, 2025
Awwww I love Caleb & Leo together. If you don’t like age gap or best friends dad then this book isn’t for you. But I love these characters and man the thing Mason did to his dad made me upset. But I’m glad everyone is happy and they got their HEA.
June 18, 2025
While I like the premise and tropes of this book, I thought it was only okay. I enjoyed the hockey bits, but the relationship between Leo and Caleb left a lot to be desired in my eyes. I didn’t like Leo at the beginning, and unfortunately that didn’t change throughout the book. I can see the appeal of this book and believe others will like it, but it wasn’t for me.
June 16, 2025
This book had so many tropes thatbusually are a hit for me but this one just wasn't for me. I only really like one Caleb and found Leo to be lacking. Honestly if this had been Caleb and Mason falling for each other it would have been more believable. I liked that Caleb was so different and yet it almost seemed like the closer he got to Leo the less he was himself. This one just wasn't for me.
June 25, 2025
This is the second book for me by this author.
I enjoyed a further glimpse of the world built and the mix of challenges and strengths of the athlete within this world, particularly those identifying as gay or bi.
For this book it’s Caleb, the quirky goalie and Leo, his team mate’s father Leo. There’s quite the age gap and differences in terms of their personal and professional experiences. I enjoyed the build up and tension of the pair. Once they took the leap I felt it was all encompassing without exploring the issues at hand (it was a ‘everything will be all right’) which undermined their experience and the difficulties this relationship would likely present in the real world.
I found Caleb lost himself a little in the relationship almost immediately despite Leo suggesting Caleb had changed him. To me, apart from risking his son’s wrath (major) for Leo there wasn’t otherwise the same risk and he seemed blindingly selfish. There was more about the kink, than the story and I felt a little more foundation would have strengthened the convincingness of the couple.
I do like the other characters in the world, and felt they appreciated Caleb whilst at times they were treating him with kid gloves.
I’ll be interested to see the next instalment as the two characters outlined have piqued my interest.
Thanks to Victory editing through Netgalley for the opportunity to read this during Pride 2025.
I enjoyed a further glimpse of the world built and the mix of challenges and strengths of the athlete within this world, particularly those identifying as gay or bi.
For this book it’s Caleb, the quirky goalie and Leo, his team mate’s father Leo. There’s quite the age gap and differences in terms of their personal and professional experiences. I enjoyed the build up and tension of the pair. Once they took the leap I felt it was all encompassing without exploring the issues at hand (it was a ‘everything will be all right’) which undermined their experience and the difficulties this relationship would likely present in the real world.
I found Caleb lost himself a little in the relationship almost immediately despite Leo suggesting Caleb had changed him. To me, apart from risking his son’s wrath (major) for Leo there wasn’t otherwise the same risk and he seemed blindingly selfish. There was more about the kink, than the story and I felt a little more foundation would have strengthened the convincingness of the couple.
I do like the other characters in the world, and felt they appreciated Caleb whilst at times they were treating him with kid gloves.
I’ll be interested to see the next instalment as the two characters outlined have piqued my interest.
Thanks to Victory editing through Netgalley for the opportunity to read this during Pride 2025.
July 14, 2025
A vast improvement on the first installment of this series, Penalty Zone tightens its focus on our two MCs rather than veering off into confusing asides about other characters and storylines from the series this one is spun off from. The dialogue also doesn't do the obnoxious enlightened speech thing quite as often as happens in Misconduct Zone, but it's still not great.
Caleb has a massive crush on his best friend Mason's dad, Leo. To make matters worse, Leo's relationship with Mason is strained at best. When Leo takes a position on the team to make sure Caleb is prepared to take up the mantle of starting goalie, he's intending to start mending his relationship with his son, not fall in love with a man he shouldn't want. All the expected drama ensues. Caleb is easily my favorite character in the series so far, but I wish the issues here were more fleshed out. I would have liked to see more of his friendship with Mason, and I would have liked to see more of Mason's relationship with Leo. Just like in Misconduct Zone, the author lays out a lot of really interesting character dynamics and plots, but the book is more smut than substance.
Caleb has a massive crush on his best friend Mason's dad, Leo. To make matters worse, Leo's relationship with Mason is strained at best. When Leo takes a position on the team to make sure Caleb is prepared to take up the mantle of starting goalie, he's intending to start mending his relationship with his son, not fall in love with a man he shouldn't want. All the expected drama ensues. Caleb is easily my favorite character in the series so far, but I wish the issues here were more fleshed out. I would have liked to see more of his friendship with Mason, and I would have liked to see more of Mason's relationship with Leo. Just like in Misconduct Zone, the author lays out a lot of really interesting character dynamics and plots, but the book is more smut than substance.
January 11, 2026
DNF @ 12%
That starts was so abrupt I felt like I was missing something. Like only twenty pages in and Leo's already giving orders and falling for Caleb's submissiveness. Same thing with Caleb freaking creeping on Leo while he was naked. Wtf? Where did this intense attraction come from and why didn't we see it start on page or at least develop to this intensity. Having the MCs just start off immediately being so incredibly attracted to one another bypasses the fun that a meet-cute could offer and robs us of seeing the development of said attraction.
What the fuck was Leo's awkward ass dialogue in that first practice session? "Your focus is all over the place. Have you considered medication?" EXCUSE ME? Who the hell says shit like that?
And wtf was up with Caleb all of the sudden discussing getting traded afterwards?
The story already started off fast because it literally dropped us in the middle of an active conflict, then it doesn't slow down with lightning quick beats that aren't given proper resolutions. Early DNF but given how much of a mess the first 12% is, I don't feel like trying to trudge through the rest.
That starts was so abrupt I felt like I was missing something. Like only twenty pages in and Leo's already giving orders and falling for Caleb's submissiveness. Same thing with Caleb freaking creeping on Leo while he was naked. Wtf? Where did this intense attraction come from and why didn't we see it start on page or at least develop to this intensity. Having the MCs just start off immediately being so incredibly attracted to one another bypasses the fun that a meet-cute could offer and robs us of seeing the development of said attraction.
What the fuck was Leo's awkward ass dialogue in that first practice session? "Your focus is all over the place. Have you considered medication?" EXCUSE ME? Who the hell says shit like that?
And wtf was up with Caleb all of the sudden discussing getting traded afterwards?
The story already started off fast because it literally dropped us in the middle of an active conflict, then it doesn't slow down with lightning quick beats that aren't given proper resolutions. Early DNF but given how much of a mess the first 12% is, I don't feel like trying to trudge through the rest.
June 12, 2025
Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶
Trigger Warning;
ADHD/Anxiety Rep
Light kink - Daddy, crawling, spanking(all consensual)
Brief hospital stay
Brief on-page violence
Sweet, spicy, and chaotic are three words I could use to describe Penalty Zone! Caleb, with his racing chaotic thoughts felt very real and definitely relatable as someone with ADHD. He gives all the golden retriever vibes, sweet and eager to please, but willing bite when pushed too far. I loved Leo's growth with his son and owning his mistakes. I really like how accepting Leo is if Calebs quirks and his parents "alternative views".
I liked the plot, but it did feel very lacking in some areas, like the very quick jump from "we can't do this" to "I can't live without you" felt a little rushed and I wish we got more of the "getting to know you" build up between Caleb Leo. I do also wish we had gotten a bit more of Calebs romantic side. Over all, I really enjoyed reading Penalty Zone!
Thanks so much to HL Books Co for providing this book for review via NetGalley!
*All opinions are my own*
Trigger Warning;
ADHD/Anxiety Rep
Light kink - Daddy, crawling, spanking(all consensual)
Brief hospital stay
Brief on-page violence
Sweet, spicy, and chaotic are three words I could use to describe Penalty Zone! Caleb, with his racing chaotic thoughts felt very real and definitely relatable as someone with ADHD. He gives all the golden retriever vibes, sweet and eager to please, but willing bite when pushed too far. I loved Leo's growth with his son and owning his mistakes. I really like how accepting Leo is if Calebs quirks and his parents "alternative views".
I liked the plot, but it did feel very lacking in some areas, like the very quick jump from "we can't do this" to "I can't live without you" felt a little rushed and I wish we got more of the "getting to know you" build up between Caleb Leo. I do also wish we had gotten a bit more of Calebs romantic side. Over all, I really enjoyed reading Penalty Zone!
Thanks so much to HL Books Co for providing this book for review via NetGalley!
*All opinions are my own*
July 3, 2026
Oh my god. What a snooze
June 29, 2025
This is the second book for me by this author. And I was so excited to get an arc copy for it. It was fun to be back with the characters I already got to know in book 1.
I fell in love with Caleb - cute and sweet, a little bit quirky goalie, who is also struggling with anxiety (very relatable). And here comes Leo - Caleb's best friends dad and his secret crush, also someone who can ground him and give him structure he needs. While I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow and change, I wasn't fully convinced with their romance. It was too inta-lovey for me.
But after saying that, I still had a good time and I am excited for more books to come.
Thank you NetGalley for the eARC.
3.5⭐
I fell in love with Caleb - cute and sweet, a little bit quirky goalie, who is also struggling with anxiety (very relatable). And here comes Leo - Caleb's best friends dad and his secret crush, also someone who can ground him and give him structure he needs. While I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow and change, I wasn't fully convinced with their romance. It was too inta-lovey for me.
But after saying that, I still had a good time and I am excited for more books to come.
Thank you NetGalley for the eARC.
3.5⭐
January 22, 2026
ehhhh it was okay
I did not like the dynamics in this book. I also did not like how we had no idea as to what basically anyone looks liked, apart from muscle tone and eye colour. it was fine but not the best, i’ve definitely read many many books that were better.
I did not like the dynamics in this book. I also did not like how we had no idea as to what basically anyone looks liked, apart from muscle tone and eye colour. it was fine but not the best, i’ve definitely read many many books that were better.
March 28, 2026
I wanted to love this. The blurb sounded so good but I almost DNFed like 6 times. I wasn’t a fan of the writing/pacing and I definitely wasn’t a fan of Leo. At all. Also- the dialogue was superrrr cringy at times. Lovie? Baby doll? EW.
August 15, 2025
I really liked the themes but the writing just didn’t work for me.
July 7, 2025
“Penalty Zone” by Heather Leighton
(Tropes: Age Gap, Best Friend’s Dad, Daddy Vibes, MM Hockey Romance, Virgin MMC, Found Family, Family Drama)
If I could give this book more than five stars, I would. Penalty Zone hit every single one of my favorite tropes and delivered it with heart, heat, and emotional depth.
I love MM hockey romances, but this one easily became a new favorite. The dynamic between Caleb and Leo was electric. The author absolutely nailed their dual POVs—Caleb’s chaotic, ADHD-fueled energy paired perfectly with Leo’s calm, grounding presence. The contrast made their chemistry even more satisfying, especially as their mentor/mentee relationship blurred into something deeper and forbidden.
“I’m supposed to teach him discipline between the pipes, not ache for how he’d respond to my indecent commands.”
This line from Leo absolutely wrecked me. That struggle between professionalism and desire was so raw and perfectly written—it pulled me in hard.
Leo gave such strong, possessive MMC energy without ever crossing lines that made me uncomfortable. He was so responsible and thoughtful, especially when it came to protecting Caleb’s job and future. Even in the midst of all the heat (and wow, the spice was top tier), he always had Caleb’s best interests at heart. And yes—this was very daddy/boy coded (without age play), and I was so here for it.
One scene that stood out to me (and got me a little choked up): Caleb has a full-blown panic attack before a big game, and it’s Leo who talks him through it. He doesn’t just bark orders or tell him to “man up”—he’s calm, present, and emotionally available in a way that grounds Caleb in the moment. That’s when Caleb truly realizes how safe he feels with Leo—not just physically, but emotionally too. 🥺
Caleb’s family was an unexpected highlight. His parents were chaotic but accepting in all the right ways, and their support added such warmth to the story. On the other hand, I was furious with Mason—his betrayal hit hard. I understand Leo’s guilt over not being a present father during his pro career, but honestly, the way he forgave Mason so quickly felt like it was just in Leo’s nature. He’s a good man, through and through.
“Penalty Zone” by Heather Leighton
(Tropes: Age Gap, Best Friend’s Dad, Daddy Vibes, MM Hockey Romance, Virgin MMC, Found Family, Family Drama)
If I could give this book more than five stars, I would. Penalty Zone hit every single one of my favorite tropes and delivered it with heart, heat, and emotional depth.
I love MM hockey romances, but this one easily became a new favorite. The dynamic between Caleb and Leo was electric. The author absolutely nailed their dual POVs—Caleb’s chaotic, ADHD-fueled energy paired perfectly with Leo’s calm, grounding presence. The contrast made their chemistry even more satisfying, especially as their mentor/mentee relationship blurred into something deeper and forbidden.
“I’m supposed to teach him discipline between the pipes, not ache for how he’d respond to my indecent commands.”
This line from Leo absolutely wrecked me. That struggle between professionalism and desire was so raw and perfectly written—it pulled me in hard.
Leo gave such strong, possessive MMC energy without ever crossing lines that made me uncomfortable. He was so responsible and thoughtful, especially when it came to protecting Caleb’s job and future. Even in the midst of all the heat (and wow, the spice was top tier), he always had Caleb’s best interests at heart. And yes—this was very daddy/boy coded (without age play), and I was so here for it.
One scene that stood out to me (and got me a little choked up): Caleb has a full-blown panic attack before a big game, and it’s Leo who talks him through it. He doesn’t just bark orders or tell him to “man up”—he’s calm, present, and emotionally available in a way that grounds Caleb in the moment. That’s when Caleb truly realizes how safe he feels with Leo—not just physically, but emotionally too. 🥺
Caleb’s family was an unexpected highlight. His parents were chaotic but accepting in all the right ways, and their support added such warmth to the story. On the other hand, I was furious with Mason—his betrayal hit hard. I understand Leo’s guilt over not being a present father during his pro career, but honestly, the way he forgave Mason so quickly felt like it was just in Leo’s nature. He’s a good man, through and through.
The ending? I cried happy tears. There’s one scene in particular that choked me up in the best way. This book made me laugh, smile, and sob—all in a single sitting. I stayed up way too late reading it, and I don’t regret a single minute.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
(Tropes: Age Gap, Best Friend’s Dad, Daddy Vibes, MM Hockey Romance, Virgin MMC, Found Family, Family Drama)
If I could give this book more than five stars, I would. Penalty Zone hit every single one of my favorite tropes and delivered it with heart, heat, and emotional depth.
I love MM hockey romances, but this one easily became a new favorite. The dynamic between Caleb and Leo was electric. The author absolutely nailed their dual POVs—Caleb’s chaotic, ADHD-fueled energy paired perfectly with Leo’s calm, grounding presence. The contrast made their chemistry even more satisfying, especially as their mentor/mentee relationship blurred into something deeper and forbidden.
“I’m supposed to teach him discipline between the pipes, not ache for how he’d respond to my indecent commands.”
This line from Leo absolutely wrecked me. That struggle between professionalism and desire was so raw and perfectly written—it pulled me in hard.
Leo gave such strong, possessive MMC energy without ever crossing lines that made me uncomfortable. He was so responsible and thoughtful, especially when it came to protecting Caleb’s job and future. Even in the midst of all the heat (and wow, the spice was top tier), he always had Caleb’s best interests at heart. And yes—this was very daddy/boy coded (without age play), and I was so here for it.
One scene that stood out to me (and got me a little choked up): Caleb has a full-blown panic attack before a big game, and it’s Leo who talks him through it. He doesn’t just bark orders or tell him to “man up”—he’s calm, present, and emotionally available in a way that grounds Caleb in the moment. That’s when Caleb truly realizes how safe he feels with Leo—not just physically, but emotionally too. 🥺
Caleb’s family was an unexpected highlight. His parents were chaotic but accepting in all the right ways, and their support added such warmth to the story. On the other hand, I was furious with Mason—his betrayal hit hard. I understand Leo’s guilt over not being a present father during his pro career, but honestly, the way he forgave Mason so quickly felt like it was just in Leo’s nature. He’s a good man, through and through.
“Penalty Zone” by Heather Leighton
(Tropes: Age Gap, Best Friend’s Dad, Daddy Vibes, MM Hockey Romance, Virgin MMC, Found Family, Family Drama)
If I could give this book more than five stars, I would. Penalty Zone hit every single one of my favorite tropes and delivered it with heart, heat, and emotional depth.
I love MM hockey romances, but this one easily became a new favorite. The dynamic between Caleb and Leo was electric. The author absolutely nailed their dual POVs—Caleb’s chaotic, ADHD-fueled energy paired perfectly with Leo’s calm, grounding presence. The contrast made their chemistry even more satisfying, especially as their mentor/mentee relationship blurred into something deeper and forbidden.
“I’m supposed to teach him discipline between the pipes, not ache for how he’d respond to my indecent commands.”
This line from Leo absolutely wrecked me. That struggle between professionalism and desire was so raw and perfectly written—it pulled me in hard.
Leo gave such strong, possessive MMC energy without ever crossing lines that made me uncomfortable. He was so responsible and thoughtful, especially when it came to protecting Caleb’s job and future. Even in the midst of all the heat (and wow, the spice was top tier), he always had Caleb’s best interests at heart. And yes—this was very daddy/boy coded (without age play), and I was so here for it.
One scene that stood out to me (and got me a little choked up): Caleb has a full-blown panic attack before a big game, and it’s Leo who talks him through it. He doesn’t just bark orders or tell him to “man up”—he’s calm, present, and emotionally available in a way that grounds Caleb in the moment. That’s when Caleb truly realizes how safe he feels with Leo—not just physically, but emotionally too. 🥺
Caleb’s family was an unexpected highlight. His parents were chaotic but accepting in all the right ways, and their support added such warmth to the story. On the other hand, I was furious with Mason—his betrayal hit hard. I understand Leo’s guilt over not being a present father during his pro career, but honestly, the way he forgave Mason so quickly felt like it was just in Leo’s nature. He’s a good man, through and through.
The ending? I cried happy tears. There’s one scene in particular that choked me up in the best way. This book made me laugh, smile, and sob—all in a single sitting. I stayed up way too late reading it, and I don’t regret a single minute.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2025
I loved book one in this series and was so honored to get an ARC for book 2. This is shaping up to be the makings of a great series. While I feel like I enjoyed book 1 a bit more it doesn't take away from how good this book was. This one is about Baby Benz A.K.A Caleb and Leo who happens to be a good bit older than him and who also happens to be Mason's (Caleb's best friend's) dad. Caleb has had a huge crush on Daddy Leo since forever. Leo was Caleb's bi awakening and someone he looked up to in Hockey as he was a bit of a big name back then. Caleb knows nothing would ever happen and with Leo not even living in the same country he doesn't have to see him often even though he's Mason's dad. Mason and Leo have a strained relationship which is a good part of the story and another huge reason why Caleb's crush sucks. What Caleb doesn't know is that Leo is taking a position on the Enforcers to help give his input and to be closer to his son and hopefully mend their relationship. Neither man saw the other coming or that they'd be thrown together and not be able to stay apart. Caleb is doing well and getting more ice time in preparation to be on the ice more as more than a back up. Hes got what it takes but sometimes his ADHD causes problems with focus and seeing his worth. And with the tension and attraction between him and Leo they have a rough start especially as it's Leo's job to coach Caleb. Leo plans to stay professional even in the face of how gorgeous Caleb is and how his submissiveness speaks to something deep inside him that he doesn't let out. But once he sees how pliant he can make Caleb with just a command and some much deserved praise it begins to be even harder to stay away even with all the reasons he should. Caleb has never met anyone who could clear his mind and calm his anxiety quite the way Leo can with a well placed hand and a tone that breaches no argument. He's able to not have to make decisions and he just trusts that Leo has him. I loved their dynamic and it just made sense for them. I love a good forbidden romance especially the best friend's dad trope but I think what was missing for me was that Leo was there for Mason and to be better but it seems that Caleb is the reason for a lot of the things he did and the way he felt and I just wish Mason was more of a factor than Caleb was at times and I wanted to see their progress through more than just read that it was happening. That made it a bit harder to connect to Leo and it sucks it took him so long to try to fix his relationship with his son. But beyond that Leo and Caleb were magic. Baby doll and Lovie. They were hot as heck, sweet as pie and perfectly made for the other. I also very much enjoyed the bond between Mason and Caleb. They were so sweet and always there for each other building each other up and even with the drama they stayed solid. The best of friends. I'm really excited for the next couple to get their book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 2, 2025
Penalty Zone
By: Heather Leighson
They have my heart!
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Let me go into this book review with some absolute truths. I’ve been looking so forward to Caleb’s book and if I’m honest I was fearful he might always be a supporting player nothing more. So when I finished Misconduct Zone the anticipation began. But I of course wasn’t disappointed I knew the author would give me everything and more. While yes this book is a bit more lighthearted it’s intense in all the right places. Opposites in age but compatible when it matters. The authors writing is flawless and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors Blurb: The hardest thing to defend… is my heart
Caleb:
I’ve spent years hiding my obsession over my best friend’s dad.
Leo Griffin is a hockey legend, and now… my mentor. He’s unknowingly responsible for my bi-awakening and all my fantasies. Every second on the ice with him is irresistible torture. His amber eyes track me like prey, and each glance makes me want to drop to my knees and submit.
It’s fine. I’m fine.
I’ll only die from embarrassment or blue balls nothing to worry about.
Leo:
Caleb Benz is everything I crave—and can’t keep.
I spent my career cementing my place in the Hockey Hall of Fame and keeping secrets. Crossing the line with Caleb will reduce my accomplishments to salacious discussions about my sexuality, and I could lose my son.
Caleb’s young, eager, and plays the game like it’s pure joy. Worse, he’s painfully beautiful, and so damn obedient it undoes me. I’m supposed to teach him discipline between the pipes, not ache for how he’d respond to my indecent commands.
A single kiss could ruin me.
Penalty Zone is the book 2 in the Enforcers Spicy MM Hockey Romance series. Tropes: age-gap, best friend’s dad, off-limits, daddy vibes, possessive MMC, virgin MMC and family drama. Grab it now to find out how they get their happy ending.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know you’re 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
By: Heather Leighson
They have my heart!
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Let me go into this book review with some absolute truths. I’ve been looking so forward to Caleb’s book and if I’m honest I was fearful he might always be a supporting player nothing more. So when I finished Misconduct Zone the anticipation began. But I of course wasn’t disappointed I knew the author would give me everything and more. While yes this book is a bit more lighthearted it’s intense in all the right places. Opposites in age but compatible when it matters. The authors writing is flawless and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors Blurb: The hardest thing to defend… is my heart
Caleb:
I’ve spent years hiding my obsession over my best friend’s dad.
Leo Griffin is a hockey legend, and now… my mentor. He’s unknowingly responsible for my bi-awakening and all my fantasies. Every second on the ice with him is irresistible torture. His amber eyes track me like prey, and each glance makes me want to drop to my knees and submit.
It’s fine. I’m fine.
I’ll only die from embarrassment or blue balls nothing to worry about.
Leo:
Caleb Benz is everything I crave—and can’t keep.
I spent my career cementing my place in the Hockey Hall of Fame and keeping secrets. Crossing the line with Caleb will reduce my accomplishments to salacious discussions about my sexuality, and I could lose my son.
Caleb’s young, eager, and plays the game like it’s pure joy. Worse, he’s painfully beautiful, and so damn obedient it undoes me. I’m supposed to teach him discipline between the pipes, not ache for how he’d respond to my indecent commands.
A single kiss could ruin me.
Penalty Zone is the book 2 in the Enforcers Spicy MM Hockey Romance series. Tropes: age-gap, best friend’s dad, off-limits, daddy vibes, possessive MMC, virgin MMC and family drama. Grab it now to find out how they get their happy ending.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know you’re 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
July 4, 2025
A best friend's dad romance. A hockey romance. A little angst. A happy ending (for all involved).
Heather Leighson knows her hockey and she knows what she wants to deliver from an MM romance novel. This, the second in the Enforcers series, brings us Caleb's romance, his bi-awakening, challenges on and off the ice as he falls for his best friend's dad... That man being Leo, the man trying to rebuild a fractured relationship with his son whilst valiantly but not very successfully, trying to maintain a respectable distance from his son's best friend. Did I mention it may be a bit complex? it is and yet it isn't, Heather Leighson knows how to tell a story, knows how the elements fit together so that we get a great read, with excitement, angst and sexy times but without confusion. And let's not forget the hockey, this is after all a hockey romance and we get plenty of time on the ice too.
Caleb has been obsessed with Leo for years but has managed to keep in all under wraps, focusing on his education and his hockey. It works perfectly well until the moment he discovers Leo is going to be his mentor and in doing so is bringing to mind every single fantasy Caleb has been harbouring. Caleb may have a huge crush but he is also very innocent when it comes to relationships and he doesn't want to ruin anything between he and his best friend.
Trouble is that Leo craves Caleb just a much, faces an equal challenge when he is acting as mentor as well as when he is dad, well in those instances there is another challenge, trying to get through to his son, to win him back, make up for the lost opportunities. He almost wants it all but knows he can't, it wouldn't be right or fair to any of them. Does love know that? Of course not, the heart wants what the heart wants no matter what the brain tries to tell it. Can new hockey careers be created, players coached to become the best they can be whilst love does its thing and best friends stay together? Find out in this second exciting, powerful, heart-melting Enforcers hockey mm romance.
Heather Leighson knows her hockey and she knows what she wants to deliver from an MM romance novel. This, the second in the Enforcers series, brings us Caleb's romance, his bi-awakening, challenges on and off the ice as he falls for his best friend's dad... That man being Leo, the man trying to rebuild a fractured relationship with his son whilst valiantly but not very successfully, trying to maintain a respectable distance from his son's best friend. Did I mention it may be a bit complex? it is and yet it isn't, Heather Leighson knows how to tell a story, knows how the elements fit together so that we get a great read, with excitement, angst and sexy times but without confusion. And let's not forget the hockey, this is after all a hockey romance and we get plenty of time on the ice too.
Caleb has been obsessed with Leo for years but has managed to keep in all under wraps, focusing on his education and his hockey. It works perfectly well until the moment he discovers Leo is going to be his mentor and in doing so is bringing to mind every single fantasy Caleb has been harbouring. Caleb may have a huge crush but he is also very innocent when it comes to relationships and he doesn't want to ruin anything between he and his best friend.
Trouble is that Leo craves Caleb just a much, faces an equal challenge when he is acting as mentor as well as when he is dad, well in those instances there is another challenge, trying to get through to his son, to win him back, make up for the lost opportunities. He almost wants it all but knows he can't, it wouldn't be right or fair to any of them. Does love know that? Of course not, the heart wants what the heart wants no matter what the brain tries to tell it. Can new hockey careers be created, players coached to become the best they can be whilst love does its thing and best friends stay together? Find out in this second exciting, powerful, heart-melting Enforcers hockey mm romance.
September 13, 2025
I have read dozens of mm hockey romance books and this one is without a doubt going down as one of my favorites. I read this within a day. I just happened to stumble across this book and I'm so happy that I took a chance on it even though I'd never heard of the author or read the first book. for starters, hockey is a perfect element to the story not too much, and not too little. just right and the drama that unfolds on said ice had me shook! I was NOT expecting that from this book. I was also not expecting the amount of spice that was going to take place in this book. I was PLEASANTLY surprised and I ate it up. older mmc, virgin mmc, best friend's dad, younger goalie/older goalie coaching, etc etc. Caleb and Leo had so many moments that made me fall for them, while watching them fall for each other. Caleb brought the life and happiness back into Leo's life and you could watch it happen on page.
The intimate scenes in the book were very hot, if you can make me want to trade places with one of your characters you are doing something right! where is my Leo?
all in all, this has the angst of an age gap romance and it kept me on the edge of my seat waiting for the best friend/son/and hockey world to find out what these two were doing behind closed doors.. and open ones! I hope you give this book a try.
my only complaint is that it's not longer, and that's not to say it wasn't a well rounded enough story with what we have... I am just greedy and wanted more of these characters! can't wait to see them in book 3!
I got this as an arc and immediately bought my physical copy so I'd have a book trophy and now I am on the hunt for the first book in the series. I have some catching up to do!
The intimate scenes in the book were very hot, if you can make me want to trade places with one of your characters you are doing something right! where is my Leo?
all in all, this has the angst of an age gap romance and it kept me on the edge of my seat waiting for the best friend/son/and hockey world to find out what these two were doing behind closed doors.. and open ones! I hope you give this book a try.
my only complaint is that it's not longer, and that's not to say it wasn't a well rounded enough story with what we have... I am just greedy and wanted more of these characters! can't wait to see them in book 3!
I got this as an arc and immediately bought my physical copy so I'd have a book trophy and now I am on the hunt for the first book in the series. I have some catching up to do!
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