Power Forward

Chicago Thunder #4

by Jodi Oliver

Jackson

When I attended my teammate’s wedding, I wasn’t expecting to come face to face with the man who broke my heart fourteen years ago.
He was my teammate. My first love.
But when I got traded, he threw what we had away.
Now he’s back in my life and he wants to give things another go.
If I agree to try again, and it all goes wrong, it’s not just my heart that’s at risk of breaking. It’ll be my kids' hearts too.

Hayden

I don’t have many regrets in life. Only one.
Hurting Jackson Wilde.
Since my career ending injury, my life has been on a downward spiral. I’ve projected to the world that everything’s fine, but deep down, I’m a broken man.
For the last six years I’ve been working on getting back pieces of the man I used to be. Not just to save me from myself, but for this moment.
A chance to win Jackson back.
I know it’s not going to be easy, but I’m going to give it my all.


Power Forward is a second chance sports romance featuring a hockey player and an ex-teammate turned sports agent. It includes mental health rep, adorable kids, unintentional matching Halloween costumes and all the Thunder found family vibes.
It is book four in the Chicago Thunder series and can be read as a standalone.

Genres: M M Romance, Hockey, Second Chance, Romance, Sports, Sports Romance, Mental Health

320 pages, Paperback

First published March 28, 2025

Reviews

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you don't cry at this book I think you may be a robot!!

The focus on mental health in this book was so emotionally impactful. I empathised with Hayden so much, especially because I'm pretty much his age and have experienced depression and anxiety since my teens just like him. It can be such a debilitating illness and no one really understands it fully unless they've been there too. What he's gone through and the work we see him put in to get himself on an even keel made my heart ache. I also super appreciate that the side effects of medication were explored and that the depression wasn't magically fixed by love, instead it's highlighted repeatedly that it's an ongoing battle. One of the best depictions I've read for mental health.

Jackson also struck a chord with me because I'm a parent and we all get that guilt and the feeling that we aren't enough for our kids at some point. On top of that I also have an autistic child so there was another level of this story I could relate to. I loved the way autism was handled and presented as something 'normal' rather than a defect. The thing I hate so much is when people turn around and tell me it's a shame my kid is autistic and non-verbal, so to see it embraced in such a positive way was so great.

I am a big fan of second chance romance, especially when we get to see the characters getting to know who the other is now, rather than focusing on who they used to be. Being on this journey with Jackson and Hayden where they're figuring out how to be a couple now, as well as a family, was so rewarding!

I could gush about this book all night, seriously! I didn't think anyone would beat how much I loved Zach and Carter, but Hayden and Jackson are definitely winning favourite couple in this series...so far anyway, because I have been DYING for Elliott's story since book one and I may combust from impatience waiting for it 😂

*****
I received an ARC of this book from The Author Agency, and this is my honest review

[Meags · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Power Forward has stolen the title of best in series for me, in quite a surprising turn, considering I tend to avoid romances with second-chance themes, especially those involving ex’s reuniting years after they initially didn’t work as a couple.

I’ve learnt there are always exceptions to my rule, and thankfully I stumble upon them every so often—enough to keep me open-minded, although hesitant, to dip my toes into romances with second-chance themes by authors I like and trust, such as Jodi Oliver.

She did an incredible job here, creating two rich and complex leading men, whose past hurts and current struggles spilled off the page with the deeply emotive and effortlessly addictive storytelling. I could have very easily not liked one or the other of these leads, under the hand of another author, but Oliver wrote Jackson and Hayden’s story so full of heart, humour and healing that I couldn’t help but ache for their past hurts and rejoice in their hard-earned personal growth and reclaimed love.

Adding to the truly beautiful lovers reunited vibes, there was also a lot of respect and appreciation on my end for the way Oliver handled Hayden’s mental health and chronic pain struggles. As someone who has dealt with varying forms of life-impacting chronic pain issues since I was in my twenties, I could so easily see my experiences and complicated emotional journey reflected in some of what Hayden was going through on his harder days, and for this, I’m grateful for the representation within this story.

As always, I simply adore the found-family and dear friendships that are steadily growing in this warm-hearted, always sweet and always sexy M/M hockey series. This addition was notably special for the heavy but ultimately welcomed presence of Jackson’s two children, whose scenes with Hayden stole my heart and brought me to happy tears on more than one occasion.

This instalment will undoubtedly be a worthwhile re-read for me when the mood strikes, severing also as a rejuvenating reminder of how much this author’s stories work for me on a joy-inducing level, not easily achieved in the now (possibly?) over-saturated sub-genre of hockey romance. The Chicago Thunder really are one of my bookish happy places and I love them for that.



The Chicago Thunder series

Book 1 - Trade Deadline (4.25 Stars)
Book 2 - Off Season (4 Stars)
Book 3 - Defensive Zone (4 Stars)
Book 4 - Power Forward (4.5 Stars)
Book 5 - pending...

[Sandy Kay]

I gave up. Time of death, 44%. Not rating bc I should have known better.

The reviews made it sound so good, and I enjoyed the other books in the series so far, so took a chance on a second chance.

I really should know myself better. This was just as bad and frustrating as Pass Interference (dif author), and I didn’t even get an outstanding MC-Jackson-telling-MC-Hayden-off moment like I did in that one. More of a sad, “You really hurt me” moment, and Hayden already knew just how horribly he hurt Jackson. Like really bad. Marcus from PI and Hayden here would be a great match for biggest assholes who decide they should get a second chance with the sweetheart they totally screwed over without any explanation more than a decade ago, meanwhile marrying other people.

Tools.

I think I was supposed to feel bad because Hayden has chronic pain from osteoarthritis and lives with depression, but, you know what? Zara, his now-ex-wife is the one he trusted to help him all this time. Hayden has spent years working to get better; Jackson knows nothing about any of it. Apparently Hayden’s now myriad tattoos also have a lot of meaning; again, Jackson knows nothing of them. Zara knows it all! She’s the one Hayden has shared himself with all this time. How the F am I supposed to root for Hayden and Jackson? Oh, even better, now ex-wife-bestie Zara is going to HELP Hayden get his man back. 🤮

So Hayden decides he wants back into Jackson’s life, sort of acts like a stalker to insert himself (inviting Jackson to coffee at “their” old place where they first “fell in love” blech), Jackson’s like...uh...okay?...they reform a connection, and then somehow sort of get to know each other, but all we see on page is a bunch of jokey texts and daily pictures. We’re told they wind up talking like every day, but we don’t see those calls or learn anything about how they’re getting to know each other. I’m just supposed to buy it? Really? (that was by 44%)

What Hayden needed to do was sit down with Jackson and be up front about things, talk through his struggles and health issues, and get to know Jackson’s priorities (his kids and career are pretty equal for #1) and really get to know each other today, but instead, Hayden chooses to blurt out that he attempted suicide a few years ago during a random moment in which Jackson is vulnerable and overwhelmed with confusion about Hayden’s intentions, and it felt so manipulative I about threw up.

I also just can’t get over the sensation of how much they missed and can’t ever get back. I’m just not a big enough person. Queen grudge-holder here. I didn’t want it to work out. I can’t help it. Hayden was too big of a dick, and to me it read like his mental health was his excuse as much as his reason. I can’t forgive him, so, I’m not going to. Good luck, boys.

HEA, but, I didn’t get there. Seriously questioning myself for even trying right now. Beautiful man on the cover though. And I do recommend the series, it’s got some lovely and heartfelt romance in it.

[Jono Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is everything I want in a romance. Oliver delivers all my favorite tropes in one emotional, swoon-worthy story that just works.

Out of the entire series, this one feels the most grounded and handled with the most care. The mental health rep is honest and thoughtful, and I saw a lot of my own journey reflected in Hayden’s story. It never feels overdone or performative, just real in a way that hits a little deeper than expected.

The fight for these two men to be together is one I’d choose again and again. Their connection feels earned, and the payoff is incredibly satisfying. Truly such a great read and easily the best of the series.

[Cat the bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well written second chance (hockey) romance ❤️

When I read in Kati’s review that Kale Williams is one of the narrators (after the previous books in this series having been narrated by Alexander Cendese, whom I avoid listening to), nothing could stop me from picking it up right away, even though second chance romances aren’t my favourite trope.

And I wasn’t disappointed: both Kale and J. F Harding did a great job giving life to Jackson, a single father of two / an NHL player, and Hayden, his former DL boyfriend who had to quit hockey due to injuries, and who now works as an agent. Both are divorced, and both still love each other, despite their breakup 14 years prior.

I always love mature characters who behave like actual grownups, and I loved the way they rekindled their love, and the way Hayden’s struggle with depression was handled.

I would probably have rated it higher than 4 stars if not for Jackson’s kids. Kids are tricky in romances, and sadly, even though it’s not uncommon for 2 adult characters to have had a former relationship/kids, they’re rarely written in a way that’s… idk… consistent to their age?

Maybe it’s the mum in me, but I just can’t get behind the way they always seemed to be watching tv or stare into an iPad (when they’re not… you know… being cute 🙄), and I rolled my eyes so hard that (to pull out a random example) 4yo Isabella wasn’t able to clean her sticky hands on her own, but knew how to start her favourite streaming program on the remote.

Other than that, I loved it. And while the previous couples have cameos, it can definitely be read on its own.

[Kati *☆･ﾟ(Dramione obsessed rn) · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

4.25 stars
audio: 5 stars


beautiful second-chance love story. ♡

“Hayden?” I ask, raising my hand to rub the back of my neck. “What are you doing here?”
He shrugs slightly. “You called, so I came.”

***********
Chicago Thunder Series

Book 1 - Trade Deadline
Book 2 - Off Season
Book 3 - Defensive Zone
Book 4 - Power Forward - 4.25 stars
Book 5 - Rebound Control - audio tbr

[~ Dαni(ela) ♥ ♂♂ & semicolons ~ · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is the fourth book in the series, and Jodi Oliver's writing isn't maturing.

I noted multiple editing fails, including sentences like this: "He was limping, favoring his other leg that didn't end his career with a torn ACL." What kind of weird sentence construction is that? Careers don't have ACLs ffs.

And this: "My days seem to blend together recently. It always does during regular season." Plural noun calls for a plural pronoun. Also, the tense is off.

Jackson's young son talks like a 30-year-old therapist: "There were some days that he seemed sad. It was like he was trying not to show it, but when he thought we weren't looking, he looked sad." Sure, I totally believe an 8-year-old boy is that observant and empathetic.

Besides the awkward writing and unrealistic kid behavior, I didn't buy the second-chance relationship and found the romance to be shallow and unrealistic. After 14 years apart and a world of hurt, the men get back together in a matter of months and are immediately one big, happy family.

Hayden's horrible past behavior is explained away as a mental health issue, but last I checked being an emotionally abusive asshole is not a symptom of depression.

Then there's the whole thing with Hayden and his wife divorcing because Hayden was struggling mentally, but they tell everyone it was due to the wife having an affair. LOL, what? You don't owe anyone an explanation for your divorce; "we drifted apart" is sufficient. The absurd lie doesn't even stand up to scrutiny since they remain besties and she's all involved in his medical care.

The situation with Jackson's wife was also odd. I don't believe that a previously involved, loving parent, mom or dad, would just abandon their kids like that. The wife gives up custody of the children for a job (when she was a SAHM and has a $$$ alimony)? Nah. It was just a convenient way to get her out of the picture and bring Hayden in as dad number two.

There were numerous illogical events, responses, explanations.

Plus, the entire book is a set up for Elliot's story, which I would bet my life savings is coming up next.

I enjoyed the team dynamics the most tbh. Extra star for the Bluey costumes; that was cute as hell.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so good! My new favorite of the series for sure! Did I cry more than once? Yes. Will I be rereading it because it was so good? Also yes. I knew going in that this was going to be good, but it was even better than I hoped. Second chance, single dad, and ex-teammates what’s not to love??

[Cadiva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having never been even remotely talented enough to have a professional career in hockey (the grass version!) I can't begin to comprehend the pressure young players must be under in whatever sport they excel at.

Given that, the mental health representation in this book is exceptional, whether it's wrapped around the romance element or not, it still goes a long way to highlight the demons and the downsides to a career under the spotlight.

Poor Hayden Cassidy was really going through it when he broke Jackson Wilde's heart at the end of their three year teenage romance as players on the same ice hockey team, following Jax's trade to another side.

It's hard to put in words the catastrophic effect the black dog of depression can have on someone's mental health, but Jodi Oliver does a fantastic job here of giving the reader insight into a 14-years older Cas as he works on regaining his life through therapy sessions and medication.

It pulls no punches in showing the traumatic after effects of a crippling injury which brought Cas' career to an early demise too, the early onset of arthritis, the scarring damage from multiple operations, the chronic pain, the unwanted consequences of having to take medication which affects the sex drive etc.

Now, that's not to say this book itself is a downer! On the contrary, it's a beautiful second chance romance which shows how sometimes, the first love is the only love, just the timing was wrong.

There's also plenty of support from the fantastic Chicago Thunder guys we've come to know and love throughout this series, and Hayden has support from some fabulous women in his life too, including his ex-wife, Zara, who I adored.

No spoilers, but this really is a joyous read, in among the serious aspects, and I loved pretty much every bit of the journey they both took to work on their second chance.

There's a gorgeous connection between the two men which is obvious from the start, and it just grows the more they interact and the more Jackson realises he could have a new future with the man he's always loved.

#ARC kindly received from the author via The Author Agency, I am voluntarily leaving a review

[martina (the life of a chaotic reader) · Rating 4 out of 5]

the epilogue was literally the cutest thing i’ve ever read in my entire life.

[October O'Neil · Rating 3 out of 5]

Everyone loves this book, but it just kind of made me anxious.

The MCs spend nearly 75% of the book apart and talking to other people, not each other, and much of their time is spent not even talking about their relationship.

There are SO many side characters in this book, my head was spinning trying to keep up. I needed a white board. Maybe if I read some of the author’s previous books it would have been easier, but I haven’t, and I had absolutely no idea who was who most of the time. It’s almost hard to say this is a standalone, there’s so much going on with all the other side pieces.

Also, when the MCs finally DO get together, the steam was…misty. I’m not even saying that because one of the MCs has some difficulty finishing due to meds. It was literally the writing. There’s such limited description of what’s happening. I wish the author would have put half as much detail into the sex scenes as is included in the hockey games or locker room banter.

Finally, I had a hard time figuring out Jackson’s motivation. He seemed to jump from broken heart to wanting Hayden back pretty quickly. I get his conflict, it just seemed like little resolution.

Anyway…I think lots of people love it. Maybe you will too. It just wasn’t for me.

[Alexandra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating: 3 ⭐

It had no business being this cute 🥺 I enjoyed Jackson and Hayden's story.

Second chance is a trope I found interesting but the execution isn't systematically well done. While it played out nicely in this one, I expected something different maybe.

Both Jackson and Hayden had different struggles, but managed to be there for the other when they needed it. The love they have is so beautiful!

I appreciated the portrayal of Hayden's mental health issues, and the fact that he was actively seaking the help he needed to get better.

I wished the author wrote more scenes between Hayden and the Wildes to show us their bond as a family, and how Hayden living with them impact the kids' life, though.

“The gut feeling I had when I was nineteen wasn’t wrong. You are the one I’m supposed to be with. You are the one I’m supposed to bring my kids up with. You are the one who I want to share lazy Sundays with and cook while listening to Frank Sinatra with.”

[Mal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hayden and Jackson’s story had some of the best mental health rep and chronic pain rep that I have read. I loved how the author gives us this wonderful second chance romance about these fantastic characters who met when they were very young grew and worked on themselves and gave credence to how they were meant to be. I loved the themes of found family, enjoying life being a little messy, learning you deserve more and advocating for yourself that run through this whole story. If anyone deserves a second chance it’s these two. I also loved Ryan, Isabel and Zara, that ending was cuteness overload. If you enjoy an emotional but low angst sports romance where the protagonists work for their HEA this is a good one to check out. There are quite a few heavy and sensitive topics touched up so please take care and read the trigger warnings.

[Christina Sturgill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 5/5 🌟
Spice: 2.5/5 🌶️
Characters: Jackson and Hayden

[mm_smut_reader · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't know how to objectively rate this book because I have so many mixed feelings.
The potential was there, especially seeing the topics addressed. But. I feel like this one should have had more groveling from Hayden's part, more complexity. We got them together at like 45% and that was the downfall of the story. Everything wrapped up too easily and I was looking for more intensity and drama.
The mental health rep was a bit meh TBH, it felt a bit secondary in some parts and I don't think it was pictured in the right way

[Tonya ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn't expecting to finish this book so quickly but it's just such an easy read. It does have a few heavy topics but overall the story flowed so well. I'm a sucker for second chance romance so I knew I had to read this. Jackson and Hayden were very much so a new fav couple for me. Think "right person, wrong time".

Vibes >>>
-Sports agent x hockey player
-second chance romance
-single dad
-mental health Rep

[Sjoukje · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many new publications this week, and this one is my favourite. It even trumps the last Puckboy. It’s definitely a lot better than the previous book in this series, because it feels so real. It didn’t feel like made up drama. I understood why Jackson was so upset but also why Hayden did what he did.
The kids were there but not too much upfront and center. And their quick bond with Hayden was very sweet.

The only thing that bugged me in this book was another mother leaving her kids behind so easily. Especially because she apparently could come by easy, but chose not too? That didn’t feel very realistic and also wasn’t necessary to the story in my opinion.

Anyway 5 stars, will reread and recommend

[Karina Liebiedieva · Rating 4 out of 5]

8/10 Ця теж достойна, тут троп другого шансу, зустріч після 14ти років. Тут цікавий персонаж з депресією, один з героїв бореться з цим🥺

[paula reads · Rating 4.75 out of 5]

4.75 stars ☆⋆˙

Review:

This book was absolutely incredible! I didn’t expect it to be so emotional, but I loved every second of it. It’s a deeply moving story that perfectly represents mental health issues and resilience. If you enjoy second-chance romance and single dad tropes, this one is for you.

Hayden shattered Jackson’s heart years ago—can they truly find their way back to each other, or is it too late?

Hayden has been battling mental health problems for a long time, but he’s learning to navigate them and grow into the best version of himself. Now that Jackson is back in his life, he’s determined to fight for a love he never stopped wanting. Jackson’s world has changed—he now has two beautiful children (who will steal your heart), who he is devoted to and hockey has been his entire identity. With Hayden’s return, Jackson is forced to confront not just his past but also who he is outside of being an athlete and a parent. His heart is on the line—but so are the hearts of the people he loves most.

Hayden and Jackson’s journey was breathtakingly emotional. You can feel the love between them, even after all the years apart. Watching them learn from their past mistakes and fight for their second chance was really moving. Their chemistry, their struggles, and their undeniable connection made this an amazing story. If you’re looking for a romance that will make you feel everything, this is the one!

[verlorenimbuecherregal · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐️
I've been waiting for Jackson's story from the moment I read Defensive Zone and read THAT scene. And this really was a beautiful single dad slash second chance romance, I've gotten teary-eyed not just once.
Jackson and Hayden had a secret relationship while they were playing for the same NHL team, but when Jackson got traded, they broke things off - and their hearts. Fourteen years later, they both at least tried to move on, which is how they both ended up divorced and Jackson has two adorable kids he juggles besides his hockey career. So when Hayden and Jackson meet again, a lot of unresolved issues come forward - but there's still something simmering between them.

Okay first of all, I loved the Wilde family, beginning with the children of course, but also Jackson's mom. Zara as Hayden's ex wife also made for a great side character, as well as a lot of other characters really enhanced the story. The mental illness rep and especially the therapy rep (showing that it's normal not to be healthy after six years of therapy and still having bad days and struggling - because most mental illnesses can never be cured, we just learn how to live with them - is definitely a more realistic rep than a lot of other romances feature) were really good. As always, I was happy to be back with the Chicago Thunder found family, and I CAN'T WAIT for Elliot's book coming later this year.

Overall, the book was quite slowly evolving and I was distracted easily, which is not a bad book per se, but it's something I don't really like and I guess others would also like to know.
Also one point of criticism which I think I'll be almost alone with, is the presence of zoos and aquariums in Jodi's books - I've criticised that in my Trade Deadline review already, and as beautiful as the jellyfish were as a symbolism in this one, animals don't belong in cages. #untileverycageisempty

All in all, I had a good time with this one and would definitely recommend it. And go read this whole series already, I just love that there's a queer normative NHL series!

[❀ Alex ❀ [Hiatus] · Rating 4 out of 5]

So freaking cute and heartwarming.

[Perusing The Pages · Rating 2 out of 5]

ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Book 4 in the Chicago Thunder series gives us Jackson & Haydens story. Jackson is a single dad of 2 who transferred teams to be closer to family so they could help with his kids whilst he is at away games, etc. Hayden is a former player turned sports agent after a career ending injury a few years back. Jackson & Hayden have a complicated history and after bumping into each other at a mutual friends wedding Hayden decides its finally time to try and win back the man he purposely pushed away and the story goes from there.

I was expecting to love this, and I didn't. I found it entertaining, but it just didn't hit the notes I wanted or expected it to for some reason. I struggled to connect with either MMC individually or with their relationship. It all just fell flat for me, which pains me to say as this was one of my most anticipated reads of this month. Without going into details so as not to spoil anything... the main plot points felt surface level and skimmed over, I wasn't invested in the second chance element as them ending back up on each other's lives felt rushed, Jacksons kids felt like a prop and a pretty underutilised one and the attempt at neurodivergence rep wasn't delved into, handled or done as well as it could have been. There were other topics surrounding mental health, etc, that feature in the book, and I appreciated how the author wrote about and handled them.

I like this series for the low angst, found family vibes, and usually really enjoy the writing style, but unfortunately, this one was a miss for me and is my least favourite of the series so far. I do seem to be in the minority though so who knows, this could very well work for you, and overall, I would definitely recommend giving this series a try. 🌶


"I hate that my body still comes alive
whenever he's around. A feeling that I've only
ever experienced with him. And I hate it even more so because he's the only person to ever break my heart. My ex-teammate, My first love. Hayden Cassidy."

[Bati · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely wonderful book!!!❤️

[Boys From The Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Chicago Thunder series by Jodi has fast become one of my favourites In the hockey romance genre. Every book for me has been outstanding and the newest release ‘Power Forward’ is no different.

It follows single dad Jackson, a forward for the Thunder, and Hayden, his ex teammate and former lover who broke his heart.

The two are reunited after 14 years apart and they try to navigate being around each other again.

This story is so swoony, heartfelt, and charming that It had me kicking my feet. I loved the sweetness, the humour, and the spice was definitely spicing.

There are also emotional moments. The MCs do have issues to work through, Hayden especially, who is dealing with mental health. As they work their way back to each other the relationship is healing for them both.
I will note, both the mental and physical health themes were written so well and it was clear that the author had carefully researched them.

All the Thunder boys have lots of content too, bringing the lighthearted banter. Elliot once again reducing me to giggles with his antics.

If you love hockey, there is actually legit hockey content, Jodi knows this game and it shows.
Anyone who loves romance books should read this series (hockey fan or not) I highly recommend them.
I can’t wait for more!

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the dedication for Power Forward and getting teary, I had a feeling I was in for a very emotional read…and I was right. Reading about Hayden’s journey with both his physical and mental heath wrecked me. But I thought both were written with such care, especially Hayden’s depression. And I loved seeing him trying to reconnect with Jackson and get him back.

As for Jackson, I adored him and his kids. He was overwhelmed with managing being a single dad and his NHL career and when Hayden came back into his life his was a bit wary due to how their relationship ended almost 15 years ago. But once he let Hayden in you could tell that neither of them had stopped loving each other. And that love practically jumped off the pages. I’m so glad Jackson and Hayden got their second chance. The love and support they showed each other was my favorite aspect of the story.

Now a brief mention of Jackson’s teammates. They really brought a sense of lightheartedness to what was a very emotional book. I loved all their interactions and how they also supported Jackson and Hayden. I’m so excited for Elliot next!

P.S I would like to request more information about Hayden’s tattoos…please and thank you.

*Be sure to check TWs

*I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review all opinions are my own.*

[Tizian Overgoor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, in its entirety, is nothing but a grovelling act. And. I. Am. Here. For. It!

The way Oliver weaves the threats or past and present in this narrative, promoting mental health and depression, open communication and honesty, is nothing short of perfect.

I loved how Hayden’s therapy sessions with Roberta were included and offered an opportunity to his immer most thoughts being openly reflected, his fears uncovered, and his development fore-fronted. It was bittersweet to read about his spirals and the side effects of his medication, which were both handled with delicacy and finesse, while keeping the overall tone of the series light.

Likewise, witnessing Jackson’s initial reluctance transform into a fiercely powerful and passionate unconditional love was marvellous. The manner in which Oliver shifts caring and needing in both characters was such a joy to witness. It was very balanced, as both lovers were able to grow and prosper. I especially loved how Jackson’s horror of seeing and sitting next to Hayden changed into a deep rooted terror of not being near him and not knowing where he was.

I have loved this series since its very first word and the fourth instalment does not disappoint. 10/10. Must read!

P.S.: I cannot believe we finally get Blaine and Alex’ wedding only to hardly have any proper details and speeches. Petition to call for a bonus chapter about their wedding from their pov?

[The Secret Librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: sports romance, MM
Tropes / tags: second chance, single dad, mental health

I adore this series and Power Forward was a great second chance romance!

If you know me, you probably know that I have a soft spot for second chance romances, and Hayden and Jackson's one was an absolute gem! It was full of tenderness and emotion, and I loved seeing these two slowly reconnecting and finding their HEA together.

Jodi Oliver did an amazing job of weaving together Hayden and Jackson's past and present, as well as Jackson's life as a pro athlete and single father. I lost track of how many times I teared up while reading - there were so much emotions in their story, and I admired how adamant and committed Hayden was to trying to make things right with Jackson.

It was easy to understand Jackson having conflicted feelings over having Hayden appear in his life again, but it didn't take him long to realise that Hayden's feelings were genuine. There were a lot of grovelling, and Hayden kept showing up and being supportive, slowly gaining back the trust from Jackson.

The mental health rep and portrayal of depression was incredibly well written and realistic here, and I loved how open and honest they were with each other. It helped a lot with overcoming the past hurt, and Hayden was definitely ready to be vulnerable and lay all the cards on the table, even if his insecurities got the best of him sometimes. I feel like I really got to know these two, and their communication was great.

Power Forward was a fantastic addition to the Chicago Thunder series, and I was really impressed with the depths of the characters and story in this one! It was somewhat of an emotional rollercoaster and I loved to see these two get their second chance. I also adored Jackson's friendship with Elliot, and I'm thrilled that we're getting his story next!

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I received an advanced copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.

[Ren || The Reader Identity · Rating 4 out of 5]

☆☆☆☆

Ooooooo, this one was a toughy. Hayden was a tough cookie. A character so flawed. Made even worse because he KNEW it and was actively seeking treatment.

I couldn't like this one any more than 4 stars. I related to Hayden so much and seeing his struggles honestly ruined the story for me. AND THAT'S OKAY. The story is good. The romance is painful but beautiful. But for ME...I just couldn't love this one because it's so raw and real I couldn't be happy.

And that's all I'm going to say. I feel like if you've ever experienced depression like Hayden, this will be a rough read for you. I don't regret reading it, and I'm SO happy for Jackson, Hayden, and the kids.

꧁𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁꧂
[pov]: 1st, dual
[spice level]: 🌶🌶🌶
[roles]: vers...kinda
[om/ow drama]: 🚫
[3rd act breakup]: kinda...
[sport]: hockey

♡ second chance
♡ disability
♡ single father
♡ mental health
♡ trigger warnings

[Jess.bookrecs · Rating 4 out of 5]

The amount of times I shed tears while reading this is actually crazy. This was so so so cute!😭
I usually don’t like second chance romance because I always feel like they’ve fallen in love off page so there’s not enough romance on page. But with this, intimacy poured from the pages! These men were absolutely besotted with each other and the found family made me wish I started the series from the first book.
I’m sat for the next book tho. I already freaking adore the fuck out of Elliot and I’m so excited to see him get his HEA.
This was a great read, very engaging.. I literally read it in hours, the characters and banter were so familiar but also unique and the same time and honestly it’s a fun time. The mental health representation was everything to me too.. SLAY

[Zack Davies · Rating 5 out of 5]

stunning, beautiful, I cried. this is one of my favourite hockey series and this instalment did not disappoint.