What do you think?
Rate this book
Rule #5: Never Coparent with Your Rival
In my defense, I didn't know about the toddler.
When I learn Enzo Bellanti has joined my hockey team, I’m furious.
Sure, Enzo and I were once best friends. But that was before he ghosted me and started throwing me into the boards every time we’re on the ice.
I definitely don’t expect him to show up at my door. And I really don’t expect him to show up with a toddler.
Three years ago, his sister asked me for a favor—the kind that involved a cup, a closed door, and a mission I didn’t know was successful. Enzo thought I’d slept with her and abandoned her.
In hindsight, that explains the death glares and on-ice aggression.
Now that he’s lost his sister, we’re suddenly coparenting a child while juggling hockey, sleep deprivation, and tension.
Yes, that kind.
When I learn Enzo Bellanti has joined my hockey team, I’m furious.
Sure, Enzo and I were once best friends. But that was before he ghosted me and started throwing me into the boards every time we’re on the ice.
I definitely don’t expect him to show up at my door. And I really don’t expect him to show up with a toddler.
Three years ago, his sister asked me for a favor—the kind that involved a cup, a closed door, and a mission I didn’t know was successful. Enzo thought I’d slept with her and abandoned her.
In hindsight, that explains the death glares and on-ice aggression.
Now that he’s lost his sister, we’re suddenly coparenting a child while juggling hockey, sleep deprivation, and tension.
Yes, that kind.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 31, 2025
32 people are currently reading
48 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
January 14, 2026
Tropes: friends to enemies to lovers, forced proximity, kid fic, misunderstandings
Feels: 3/5
Steam*: 2.5/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: low to medium
HEA: HEA
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: death of sibling, pining, estranged relationship
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: Enzo has been pining after Axel since they met 10 years ago. Axel wasn't really aware of his feelings for Enzo. Both of them have been with lots of others. Once they hook up for the first time in the present, neither of them are interested in anyone else.
4 stars
Enzo and Axel met 10 years ago in college, and they were roommates and teammates on the hockey team. They became quick best friends. Enzo was beginning to suspect he was gay, and he fell for Axel right away. But he pined in secret. They were best friends for 7 years, all through college and after as they started their NHL careers on different teams. Then Enzo dumped Axel as a friend without explaining why, completely ghosted him.
Axel had donated sperm to Enzo's older sister Gaby. When Gaby told Enzo she was pregnant and Axel was the father, Enzo thought they slept together and he was emotionally unwilling to talk to Axel and hear the words from him, hurt, upset, angered. So he avoided him. But then 3 years later, she dies in a tragic car accident leaving behind a traumatized toddler son. Enzo joins Axel's team and tells him about the kid, and they move in together to co-parent. They start rebuilding their friendship and Axel (who had previously only been with women) taking care of Enzo turns sexual, and they start hooking up.
I liked how much Axel and Enzo cared about each other, how well they knew each other, the things they had in common. They really were great friends and once they gave in to the spark between them, they were great lovers. The kid was cute. I liked how their friends and everyone around them automatically assumed they were together even when they weren't. Everyone could see through them that they cared about each other.
I wasn't a fan of the misunderstanding trope, especially because it continued until like 80% through the book. It's infuriating that they were such best friends but they didn't talk. Axel just trying to do a nice thing for his best friends sister, who he didn't even know very well, completely destroying his relationship with the most important person in the world to him was just frustratingly tragic. And it wasn't admirable that Enzo stuck his head in the sand like he did.
I also think this author deserves to be called out for making a reference to X and Harry Potter. No author of lgbtqia books should be amplifying Elon Musk or JK Rowling. Those two people can eat rocks.
Some notable moments:
"Finn turns to look at us. He grins and makes a heart shape with his hands. “You’re cuddling!” “Shut up.” Enzo is tired. This isn’t cuddling. Finn is obviously crazy. The bus winds its way through Cambridge, heading toward the highway. The bus turns again, and Enzo topples into my lap, face first. “You’re right.” Finn eyes Enzo. “That’s not cuddling. That’s third base.” “It is not third base,” I whisper. “And be quiet. He’s sleeping!”"
"“The rings?” the officiant prompts. Luca walks forward carefully, the pillow balanced on his palms like he’s carrying something sacred. Which I guess he is. He doesn’t drop them. Stella gives him a thumbs up from her seat."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 3/5
Steam*: 2.5/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: low to medium
HEA: HEA
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: death of sibling, pining, estranged relationship
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: Enzo has been pining after Axel since they met 10 years ago. Axel wasn't really aware of his feelings for Enzo. Both of them have been with lots of others. Once they hook up for the first time in the present, neither of them are interested in anyone else.
4 stars
Enzo and Axel met 10 years ago in college, and they were roommates and teammates on the hockey team. They became quick best friends. Enzo was beginning to suspect he was gay, and he fell for Axel right away. But he pined in secret. They were best friends for 7 years, all through college and after as they started their NHL careers on different teams. Then Enzo dumped Axel as a friend without explaining why, completely ghosted him.
Axel had donated sperm to Enzo's older sister Gaby. When Gaby told Enzo she was pregnant and Axel was the father, Enzo thought they slept together and he was emotionally unwilling to talk to Axel and hear the words from him, hurt, upset, angered. So he avoided him. But then 3 years later, she dies in a tragic car accident leaving behind a traumatized toddler son. Enzo joins Axel's team and tells him about the kid, and they move in together to co-parent. They start rebuilding their friendship and Axel (who had previously only been with women) taking care of Enzo turns sexual, and they start hooking up.
I liked how much Axel and Enzo cared about each other, how well they knew each other, the things they had in common. They really were great friends and once they gave in to the spark between them, they were great lovers. The kid was cute. I liked how their friends and everyone around them automatically assumed they were together even when they weren't. Everyone could see through them that they cared about each other.
I wasn't a fan of the misunderstanding trope, especially because it continued until like 80% through the book. It's infuriating that they were such best friends but they didn't talk. Axel just trying to do a nice thing for his best friends sister, who he didn't even know very well, completely destroying his relationship with the most important person in the world to him was just frustratingly tragic. And it wasn't admirable that Enzo stuck his head in the sand like he did.
I also think this author deserves to be called out for making a reference to X and Harry Potter. No author of lgbtqia books should be amplifying Elon Musk or JK Rowling. Those two people can eat rocks.
Some notable moments:
"Finn turns to look at us. He grins and makes a heart shape with his hands. “You’re cuddling!” “Shut up.” Enzo is tired. This isn’t cuddling. Finn is obviously crazy. The bus winds its way through Cambridge, heading toward the highway. The bus turns again, and Enzo topples into my lap, face first. “You’re right.” Finn eyes Enzo. “That’s not cuddling. That’s third base.” “It is not third base,” I whisper. “And be quiet. He’s sleeping!”"
"“The rings?” the officiant prompts. Luca walks forward carefully, the pillow balanced on his palms like he’s carrying something sacred. Which I guess he is. He doesn’t drop them. Stella gives him a thumbs up from her seat."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2026
fun story but…
Two year olds can’t and don’t carry on full on conversations and sentences the way the character in this story does. Huge issue that detracted from the enjoyment of the story.
Two year olds can’t and don’t carry on full on conversations and sentences the way the character in this story does. Huge issue that detracted from the enjoyment of the story.
January 6, 2026
This is book 5 in the Hockey Rules series. Each book is a standalone read and focuses on a different couple. This is the story of Enzo Bellanti and Axel Knight. Both men are hockey players. They used to be best friends until Enzo ghosted Axel and aggressively checks him on the ice each time they play against each other. Now all of a sudden he is in Axel's world. He has been traded to Axel's team. This is their story. The book is well written and easy to read. I loved Axel's character and personality. He is big and effusive. And when his world is changed, reacts positively and embraces the change. While I appreciated the love that Enzo has for his nephew, I didn't understand how he could not verify facts with Axel before he reacted. I really enjoyed this book. It was fun to read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 1, 2026
Enzo and Axel were best friends the moment they met in college. But a lot has changed in three years. Like the fact that Enzo suddenly stopped speaking to Axel three years ago and never told Axel why. Now, Enzo has come to Axel’s hockey team in Boston and Axel is anything about happy about it. He can’t trust Enzo. Not after he left and hasn’t explained why. So how in the world is he supposed to get along with him now? Enzo just lost his sister and is now raising his two year old nephew. He comes to Boston when he learns the team has an opening and because it’s time to tell Axel he has a son. He’s hurt that Axel slept with his sister and then left her to raise his son. So why is Axel so surprised to hear that not only is Enzo’s sister gone but that he has a son too? Could he really not have known? Turns out, yeah he didn’t. Especially when Axel was simply a sperm donor doing a favor for a friend. These two have a lot to talk about. I really loved Enzo and Axel’s story. It was clear that these two had feelings for one another and for Axel he just didn’t realize exactly what those feelings were, while Enzo kept his locked tight. The moment Axel learns he is a dad, he steps up and is thrilled to have Luca in his life and also Enzo. They get a second chance at their friendship and something even more. It was really sweet to watch these two reunite and end up the way they were always meant to. A fun story to start the new year!
January 25, 2026
Never Coparent with Your Rival by Portia Blake is the 5th book in her Hockey Rules series. It is the story of two men who met in college, both played hockey and went on to the NHL but had something happen that split them apart and then came back together and became a family as the love they felt from the beginning finally came out. Axel Knight and Enzo Bellanti met in college when they were roommates and played for the hockey team at Concord College. Enzo’s sister, Gaby, had become his legal guardian after a hard-fought battle when his mother died 3 years before this. He also liked men but tried to keep it a secret, especially since he was attracted to Axel from the start. Axel happened to save him right off the bat when Enzo chocked and he gave him the Heimlich maneuver and since he saved his life said he was his for life. Both of them made a great team playing hockey but went to different NFL teams. They stayed in touch until something happened and Enzo ghosted him and when they saw each other seemed to have a vendetta against him. Then, 10 years later, Enzo got traded to his team, the Boston Blizzards, and when Axel was at a press conference, he said that it wasn’t a good fit and that it would be bad for the team. This was proven wrong during their first game because it was like they were never apart on the ice and they both scored goals and won the game. But Enzo had his reasons for coming to Boston. His sister had a baby, Luca, who was now 2 ½ and she finally told him that Axel was the father. She was in a car accident and right before she died she told him he had to tell Axel about him. The rift between them was because he thought Axel had had an affair with Gaby and then left him, just like his deadbeat father, and he wasn’t taking that very well. But he had to honor Gaby’s wishes, so he went to Boston with Luca, trying to reassure him and find a nanny but things weren’t working out very well. He finally showed up at Axel’s apartment with Luca and told him he was his, thinking that he would probably not want him but to his surprise Axel was shocked and then delighted. As time went on, he showed how much he wanted him by having Axel and Luca move in, finding a great nanny, Patricia, and setting up Luca’s room. He spent as much time as he could with the boy and in turn, Enzo. Axel had always cared for Enzo and even though he was straight he was starting to feel an attraction for him. Meanwhile Enzo was seeing what a wonderful person Axel still is and that he truly wants to be a dad to Luca. He’s still mad about him sleeping with Gaby but believes him when he says he didn’t know about the boy. He also realizes he’s in love with him. He hasn’t been sleeping very well on the couch and Axel finally gets him to share his bed and then have a hot scene “just so he can sleep”. This turns into much more as time goes on and it isn’t long until Axel realizes he is in love with Enzo, too. Everything comes to a head when Enzo finally discovers how Gaby became pregnant and it almost splits them up. But in the end, they declare their love and that they were each other’s for life. I really enjoyed this story. Both men had been in love almost from the time they met but didn’t realize it. Enzo was loyal to his sister and loved Luca and felt betrayed when Axel was never in his life. He also jumped to conclusions that hurt him in the end. Axel had always valued Enzo’s friendship and was upset when he ghosted him because he didn’t know what happened to cause that. It took a while when they got back together to finally figure out what happened and Luca was the glue that kept them together. Luca was traumatized when he came to Boston with Enzo but being with both men finally helped him feel safe and loved. Their friends on the hockey team and Patricia were also important in the story since they were able to be there and help them see they belonged together. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like stories about men who were best friends and lost their way and a little boy who brings them back together all while playing hockey and finally finding the love they always had.
January 14, 2026
I first want to say that I really enjoyed this book. Misunderstanding tropes are not my favorite but I’m happy I gave this book a try. While the misunderstanding was aggravating I feel the author handled it well and it didn’t hinder my enjoyment of Enzo and Axels romantic journey. I love a good best friends to lovers trope and this definitely gave me that.
Axel and Enzo were best friends in college and after a misunderstanding Enzo’s cuts contact with Axel and they basically hate each other. They do make up and become friends again pretty quickly after they are brought back together to play on the same hockey team. I loved when Axel or Enzo would get jealous (so cute). I wish the story was a bit longer so some scenes could have been delved deeper into and so that we could see more of Enzo and Axels romantic journey as an official out couple.
I love all the scenes with Luca (he was so cute) getting to see them interact as a family was really awesome.
I gave the book 4/5 stars because I felt that the writing was a bit juvenile at times. Not so much so that the book was enjoyable but enough that I felt it needed to be noted. I also felt that some parts of the story were a little rushed. The spicy scenes were also a little rushed feeling to me.
Overall the book was a very enjoyable quick read (I read it in one day). I’ve been in a bit of a slump lately and this really helped to get me out of it. A very cute and lightly spicy read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Axel and Enzo were best friends in college and after a misunderstanding Enzo’s cuts contact with Axel and they basically hate each other. They do make up and become friends again pretty quickly after they are brought back together to play on the same hockey team. I loved when Axel or Enzo would get jealous (so cute). I wish the story was a bit longer so some scenes could have been delved deeper into and so that we could see more of Enzo and Axels romantic journey as an official out couple.
I love all the scenes with Luca (he was so cute) getting to see them interact as a family was really awesome.
I gave the book 4/5 stars because I felt that the writing was a bit juvenile at times. Not so much so that the book was enjoyable but enough that I felt it needed to be noted. I also felt that some parts of the story were a little rushed. The spicy scenes were also a little rushed feeling to me.
Overall the book was a very enjoyable quick read (I read it in one day). I’ve been in a bit of a slump lately and this really helped to get me out of it. A very cute and lightly spicy read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 31, 2026
Book five in the Hockey Rules series, "Never Coparent with Your Rival" was a delight to read. From the prologue where Axel had to Heimlich Enzo when he was choking to death on a grape to the "ahhh, how sweet" finish, I was totally enthralled. Only when I fell asleep with my reader sliding to the floor did I stop reading. There's a few surprising twists, good natured teasing and supportive teammates and friends along the way. I thought Axel was the epitome of a Himbo, (the scene with the two women in the bar!), he was surprisingly deep.
With all the good, there were a few things that bugged me. Axel's himbo-esque sunshine was a little wearing on the nerves. It took sooooo long for the two MCs to clear the air. And where the heck were Axel's parents during the ceremony on the boat?
I can forgive the author for all that. The double lightbulb moment, "OMG…, I love him!" was so worth it. Luca was such a darling, and a very brave boy. And, sorry Enzo and Axel, Luke, with his oblivious innocence, is my favorite.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
With all the good, there were a few things that bugged me. Axel's himbo-esque sunshine was a little wearing on the nerves. It took sooooo long for the two MCs to clear the air. And where the heck were Axel's parents during the ceremony on the boat?
I can forgive the author for all that. The double lightbulb moment, "OMG…, I love him!" was so worth it. Luca was such a darling, and a very brave boy. And, sorry Enzo and Axel, Luke, with his oblivious innocence, is my favorite.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 20, 2026
Enzo Bellanti and Axel Knight—two former best friends turned on‑ice rivals whose worlds collide again when Enzo is unexpectedly traded to Axel’s team. What unfolds is a heartfelt, tension‑filled journey as they navigate old wounds, unresolved feelings, and the complicated dynamic of being teammates after years of silence. The writing is smooth and easy to read, making the book a quick and enjoyable read. Axel, in particular, shines. His big personality, warmth, and ability to embrace change make him instantly lovable. He brings so much heart to the story, and watching him adapt when his world shifts is one of the book’s highlights. Enzo’s devotion to his nephew adds depth to his character, though his tendency to jump to conclusions—especially without checking the facts with Axel—was occasionally frustrating. Still, his emotional arc is compelling, and the tension between the two men keeps the pages turning. This s was a fun, engaging read with great chemistry, strong character moments, and a satisfying blend of sports and romance.
January 10, 2026
It was a quick read and it's cute. It's about 2 hockey players(Enzo & Axel) who were first friends, then enemies, then lovers. Enzo is an insecure mess and Axel is kind of clueless, but eventually they figure out a path forward together. Enzo joins the hockey team Axel plays on when Enzo's sister dies. The sister has a son, Luca, who was fathered by Axel, and Enzo wants to get the boy to his father.
Much of the drama in this book comes from a huge misunderstanding that Enzo spends all his time avoiding talking about. If they'd just talked about it....... The child, Luca is well-written...right up until he opens his mouth (for most of the book he is mute, but when he begins to speak again, he speaks like an adult. He's 2.). I also found the whole thing to be wildly unrealistic - if this doesn't bother you, then you'll be fine with this. Of course all books are unrealistic to some extent, this was just more than appeals to me personally.
Much of the drama in this book comes from a huge misunderstanding that Enzo spends all his time avoiding talking about. If they'd just talked about it....... The child, Luca is well-written...right up until he opens his mouth (for most of the book he is mute, but when he begins to speak again, he speaks like an adult. He's 2.). I also found the whole thing to be wildly unrealistic - if this doesn't bother you, then you'll be fine with this. Of course all books are unrealistic to some extent, this was just more than appeals to me personally.
January 4, 2026
Enzo & Axel were best friends throughout college but one misunderstanding leads to them not speaking for years that is until Enzo is traded to Axels team. These two lack good communication skills and yeah that has been their downfall many times. When Axel learns he is the father of Enzos late sisters son, he immediately steps up to support both Enzo & Luca. absolutely adored that Luca is a major focus of their relationship and his needs always come first as they should especially with a child as young as he is. These two were undoubtably sweet for one another just their lack of communication kept hindering what could have been magical. I am happy to say that they eventually did get their stuff together and be together fully and completely just frustrating at times. Overall worth a read if you are looking for a low angst fun where the child is a major focus of the story.
January 5, 2026
Never Coparent With Your Rival completely worked for me. This MM hockey romance had so much heart, and I was hooked from start to finish. The friends-to-enemies-to-friends-to-lovers arc was done so well, especially with all the history between these two. You can feel the years of unspoken feelings layered into every interaction.
This was a very slow burn, and I mean that in the best way. There isn’t a lot of spice, but the emotional payoff is huge. Watching Enzo & Axel slowly realize that they’ve loved each other since their college roommate days was incredibly satisfying.
If you’re looking for an MM hockey romance that leans more into feelings, healing, and character growth than heat, I would absolutely recommend this one. It’s a quiet, heartfelt story that sticks with you.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a very slow burn, and I mean that in the best way. There isn’t a lot of spice, but the emotional payoff is huge. Watching Enzo & Axel slowly realize that they’ve loved each other since their college roommate days was incredibly satisfying.
If you’re looking for an MM hockey romance that leans more into feelings, healing, and character growth than heat, I would absolutely recommend this one. It’s a quiet, heartfelt story that sticks with you.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 7, 2026
This was a really enjoyable addition to the Hockey Rules series, with a great mix of humour, tension and heart. Axel is an absolute standout – big, warm, and surprisingly adaptable when his life is turned upside down. Watching him step into co-parenting with very little hesitation was both endearing and refreshing.
The history between Axel and Enzo adds plenty of emotional friction, especially with all that unresolved anger spilling onto the ice. While Enzo’s assumptions were frustrating at times, his devotion to his nephew helps balance that out. The story is easy to sink into, well paced, and genuinely fun, with just enough emotional depth to keep it grounded. A solid standalone that’s very easy to recommend.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The history between Axel and Enzo adds plenty of emotional friction, especially with all that unresolved anger spilling onto the ice. While Enzo’s assumptions were frustrating at times, his devotion to his nephew helps balance that out. The story is easy to sink into, well paced, and genuinely fun, with just enough emotional depth to keep it grounded. A solid standalone that’s very easy to recommend.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 11, 2026
Rule #5: Never Coparent with Your Rival is a touching, character-driven hockey romance that can easily be read as a standalone, and I enjoyed it just as much as the author’s other books in this series. Enzo and Axel’s story is built on a complicated past, forced proximity, and the challenge of navigating old wounds while doing what’s best for a child. The emotional tension between them is palpable, shaped by three years of misunderstandings and unspoken feelings.
This is a slow-burning romance that leans heavily into growth, healing, and heartfelt moments rather than high heat, and it works beautifully. The journey from resentment to reconnection feels natural and deeply satisfying. Overall, it’s a warm, emotional read that fits seamlessly alongside the rest of the series.
This is a slow-burning romance that leans heavily into growth, healing, and heartfelt moments rather than high heat, and it works beautifully. The journey from resentment to reconnection feels natural and deeply satisfying. Overall, it’s a warm, emotional read that fits seamlessly alongside the rest of the series.
January 14, 2026
Received an ARC for this one and it was so adorable! Enzo and Axel were instant best friends when they met in college and now ten years later aren’t speaking. When Enzo joins Axel’s team, he’s livid until he discovers Enzo has a toddler and Axel’s the father…
Reasons I Recommend:
1) Super adorable and Axel has total golden retriever energy (puppy golden retriever)
2) Team dynamics were fun and
3) Despite the clear miscommunication trope, enjoyed Axel and Enzo coming to an understanding of why and how communication is so important.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ @portiablakeauthor
#briereads #brierecommends #2026goodreadsreadingchallenge #reviewedongoodreads #reviewedoninstagram bookworm lovetoread idratherbereading
Reasons I Recommend:
1) Super adorable and Axel has total golden retriever energy (puppy golden retriever)
2) Team dynamics were fun and
3) Despite the clear miscommunication trope, enjoyed Axel and Enzo coming to an understanding of why and how communication is so important.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ @portiablakeauthor
#briereads #brierecommends #2026goodreadsreadingchallenge #reviewedongoodreads #reviewedoninstagram bookworm lovetoread idratherbereading
January 26, 2026
Enzo and Axel used to be besties and played hockey together in college. Axel donated sperm to Enzo's sister without Enzo's knowledge and she didn't let Axel know they had a baby. Then she died leaving Enzo to let him know. Enzo had ghosted Axel thinking he left his sister hanging and Axel resented him thinking he dropped him as a friend. Now they will be raising the toddler together with all the challenges, living together and playing on the same NHL team. Since Enzo secretly was in love with Axel, it's just a matter of time. So much prickliness and pride from Enzo, compassion and patience from Axel. It's a slow burn but romantic mess of feelings for them. I received a copy of this and this is my voluntary opinion.
January 31, 2026
This is my first time reading Portia Blake, even though this is the 5th book in the series. I wasn’t lost in the slightest. Each book is a standalone, this one centered on former friends, and new teammates, Axel and Enzo. They haven’t spoken in years and Axel has no idea way. But now Enzo is back with a little boy in tow, his son.
I absolutely loved how they were completely obsessed with each other, even though they were a little oblivious to their feelings. Never did they have a moment of doubt of how Luca was going to be taken care of. Everything with them was an easy compromise and just so sweet. I am definitely going to go back and read the first four books in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I absolutely loved how they were completely obsessed with each other, even though they were a little oblivious to their feelings. Never did they have a moment of doubt of how Luca was going to be taken care of. Everything with them was an easy compromise and just so sweet. I am definitely going to go back and read the first four books in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 7, 2026
Never Coparent with Your Rival is about Axel and Enzo, they were best friends but three years ago Enzo just stopped answers Axel's texts and they become rivals. But then Enzo was traded to Axel's team. One night Enzo is behind Axel's room door with a toddler.
This was a good story, I liked it. I liked how they both helped each others, and they did have a strong relationship in the past, so they did have a a strong foundation to be in relationship and be coparents. This is the fifth book in the Hockey Rules series, and can be read as a standalone.
------------------------------------------
I received a copy of this book, and this is my honest review
This was a good story, I liked it. I liked how they both helped each others, and they did have a strong relationship in the past, so they did have a a strong foundation to be in relationship and be coparents. This is the fifth book in the Hockey Rules series, and can be read as a standalone.
------------------------------------------
I received a copy of this book, and this is my honest review
January 8, 2026
They started out as roommates and Enzo was smitten on sight. They got close and stayed close until a misunderstanding tore them apart. The strong aversion was a testament to the strength of their feelings. And co-parenting a toddler, Enzo's nephew, Axel's biological child by Enzo's sister, gives them a chance to come back together and be friends. And then more. Luca is adorable and these guys step up for him. It takes them a little longer to get out of their own way but once they do they find what they really want to have with one another.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 21, 2026
What a great book! Axel and Enzo are the best pair of friends, but then they have a falling out due to Enzo's misunderstanding and lack of communication by both of them. This story has all the great feels and themes of long term crush, bi- awakening, found family, cute toddler, laugh out loud moments and funny internal dialogue especially in Axel's head. These two have a love/ hate relationship at first. They want to hate but can't seem to feel it completely. I just love them and their relationship as it quickly develops and how they step up together as a family with Luca. A must read. This really is one of the best in the series although it's tough to choose a favorite.
January 18, 2026
The story has potential, but I didn't really warm to the writing style. In some places, it moves too quickly for me, while in others, there is a lot of repetition of what we already know.
Miscommunication is definitely an issue, and I can understand that this is a sensitive topic, but I often found the execution difficult.
I don't want to say that I thought it was poorly portrayed, but it was incredibly superficial and the characters seemed more contrived than alive to me.
However, those who enjoy verbal sparring and love the flair of hockey will certainly find something to enjoy here.
Miscommunication is definitely an issue, and I can understand that this is a sensitive topic, but I often found the execution difficult.
I don't want to say that I thought it was poorly portrayed, but it was incredibly superficial and the characters seemed more contrived than alive to me.
However, those who enjoy verbal sparring and love the flair of hockey will certainly find something to enjoy here.
January 23, 2026
I enjoyed the rest of the series and wanted to read this newest addition. I can't remember if the others were as corny as this one, but this felt like sugar on my teeth. I thought the characters were adorable together but the fact that the whole three year ignore you sesh was something that could have been resolved with a conversation was frustrating. Miscommunication just makes me grind my teeth, especially when there were multiple people that could have resolved it with probably one sentence.
January 26, 2026
This book is filled with so many wonderful twists.
Enzo and Axel are best friends and hockey players. Axel donates sperm to Enzo's sister and neither told him. Add to that, she had the baby and didn't tell Axel.
After her passing, assumptions were still lingering as Enzo thought he got her pregnant and left.
Not only do they have to repair their friendship, Axel is now a father, and will have to co-parent with his teammate and the man he loves. Oops.
Working out the kinks on the road to an HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Enzo and Axel are best friends and hockey players. Axel donates sperm to Enzo's sister and neither told him. Add to that, she had the baby and didn't tell Axel.
After her passing, assumptions were still lingering as Enzo thought he got her pregnant and left.
Not only do they have to repair their friendship, Axel is now a father, and will have to co-parent with his teammate and the man he loves. Oops.
Working out the kinks on the road to an HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 3, 2026
Another good read!!! Second in a row!! You might think that sounds like it would be easy but no, it's not. And it does actually reminded of the other book - one slightly goofy, kind-hearted (may or may not be described as a golden retriever) man showing the grump drowning in his problems a way out. Just life, just family problems and friends... I started with book 5 but I am getting back to book 1. It's not a blow-your-mind kind of book but I think it just might be "guaranteed-fun with all the right feels" which is just as important.
Recommend!
Recommend!
January 20, 2026
SPECTACULAR ROMANCE!
Make sure you have a good supply of tissues available while reading Portia Blake's Rule #5: Never Coparent with Your Rival. This tale of Enzo and Axel, college ice hockey players who are now pros, warmed my heart while breaking it just a little.
And you will fall in love with Luca, their nephew and son; I know I did.
This is the first book I've read by Portia Blake and it will not be the last.
Make sure you have a good supply of tissues available while reading Portia Blake's Rule #5: Never Coparent with Your Rival. This tale of Enzo and Axel, college ice hockey players who are now pros, warmed my heart while breaking it just a little.
And you will fall in love with Luca, their nephew and son; I know I did.
This is the first book I've read by Portia Blake and it will not be the last.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
This was something new, but absolutely a creativ topic and a fun read. I love that the MC's had such a strong relationship in the past and it made for a strong fundation in their relationship in present time.
Here you get a lot of confusion, uncertainty and frustration when looking back at the past. Both still harbor strong feelings towards each other, but they have a lot to work through. On top of that there is the cutest little boy to take care of and love. Enzo and Axel brings out the best in each other and together they are an amazing team, when on the same side.
This read also contains a lot of sweet moments, spice, fun banter, wonderful secondary characters and an enormous amount of love. I love this book and highly recommend it.
This was something new, but absolutely a creativ topic and a fun read. I love that the MC's had such a strong relationship in the past and it made for a strong fundation in their relationship in present time.
Here you get a lot of confusion, uncertainty and frustration when looking back at the past. Both still harbor strong feelings towards each other, but they have a lot to work through. On top of that there is the cutest little boy to take care of and love. Enzo and Axel brings out the best in each other and together they are an amazing team, when on the same side.
This read also contains a lot of sweet moments, spice, fun banter, wonderful secondary characters and an enormous amount of love. I love this book and highly recommend it.
January 7, 2026
I actually jumped in this series with this book, and I found it to be quite cute. I could feel how connected Enzo and Axel were despite all the not communicating of feelings. Axel definitely grew a lot throughout the story. Luca or little boy here really was the glue. Love spice with mostly found family feels.
January 24, 2026
Such a cute story! I loved Axel and Enzo but little Luca stole the show! I often wanted to shake either Axel or Enzo and at times both! While this story is about two hockey players, you do not need hockey knowledge to enjoy this book. ders should know you received this book for free.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 1, 2026
What a sweet love story. Just enough angst, just enough steam … Axel and Enzo were best friends until Axel broke Enzo’s heart … unknowingly.
Three years later, they form a partnership in the best interest of Axel’s toddler son and forge a life together despite their storied history.
Three years later, they form a partnership in the best interest of Axel’s toddler son and forge a life together despite their storied history.
January 7, 2026
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I'm glad the misunderstanding between Enzo and Axel was cleared up and how they cared for Luca. I liked that Enzo and Axel were able to regain their friendship and to fall in love.
January 9, 2026
Rule #5: Never Coparent with Your Rival is the fifth book in the Hockey Rules series, each can be read as a standalone. This is a friends to enemies to lovers, single dad read about Enzo and Axel. I have really enjoyed each of the books in this series and this didn't disappoint in any way.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews