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Off the Bench #2
Cross Checking
Right person, wrong time zone.
Luke
Call me jaded, but dating in Toronto is a nightmare. Erik Norberg doesn’t just wake me up—he manages to make me forget. We didn’t mean to share more than a quick moment after locking eyes in a bar, but nothing about that quiet, attractive hockey player is easy to shake.
I’m crushing hard, in too deep, and I couldn’t be happier. Unfortunately, every good thing I have eventually flies off a cliff, or in Erik's case, off to Sweden.
He was a breath of fresh air. Now that he’s gone, I’m left gasping for more.
Erik
The first time I wore skates, I found my footing within seconds. I wish talking to new people came as easily. Guys tend to take what they want and let go, but Luke Tremblay sticks around.
He’s cool, confident, and I’m hooked from day one—for the first time, I’m not waiting for the other shoe to drop. But when my place in the AHL falls out from under me, staying in Canada isn’t an option.
It turns out Luke isn’t someone I can leave behind. Step one of moving on is wanting to, and that's where I'm stuck.
Cross Checking is a low-angst MM hockey romance with a quick spark. It is the second standalone novel in the Off the Bench series. Reading in order is not required.
While situational challenges do arise, this is not a conflict-driven or high-drama narrative, which may not appeal to readers who enjoy angst and considerable internal tension. But for those who enjoy high-heat pining between guys who can’t help falling for each other, you’ll find that here.
Tropes:
• Quick Spark (Instalove)
• Slice of Life
• Long Distance
• Opposites Attract
• Hockey
• Pining
Luke
Call me jaded, but dating in Toronto is a nightmare. Erik Norberg doesn’t just wake me up—he manages to make me forget. We didn’t mean to share more than a quick moment after locking eyes in a bar, but nothing about that quiet, attractive hockey player is easy to shake.
I’m crushing hard, in too deep, and I couldn’t be happier. Unfortunately, every good thing I have eventually flies off a cliff, or in Erik's case, off to Sweden.
He was a breath of fresh air. Now that he’s gone, I’m left gasping for more.
Erik
The first time I wore skates, I found my footing within seconds. I wish talking to new people came as easily. Guys tend to take what they want and let go, but Luke Tremblay sticks around.
He’s cool, confident, and I’m hooked from day one—for the first time, I’m not waiting for the other shoe to drop. But when my place in the AHL falls out from under me, staying in Canada isn’t an option.
It turns out Luke isn’t someone I can leave behind. Step one of moving on is wanting to, and that's where I'm stuck.
Cross Checking is a low-angst MM hockey romance with a quick spark. It is the second standalone novel in the Off the Bench series. Reading in order is not required.
While situational challenges do arise, this is not a conflict-driven or high-drama narrative, which may not appeal to readers who enjoy angst and considerable internal tension. But for those who enjoy high-heat pining between guys who can’t help falling for each other, you’ll find that here.
Tropes:
• Quick Spark (Instalove)
• Slice of Life
• Long Distance
• Opposites Attract
• Hockey
• Pining
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 25, 2025
62 people are currently reading
203 people want to read
About the author
S.J. Crawford
2 books15 followersS.J. Crawford writes MM romance novels. His goal for every story is to explore the enjoyably chaotic side of relationships through realistic characters and experiences.
Growing up, S.J. moved constantly, but he decided that he likes things cold so he now lives in Canada. Rest assured, his books bring a lot more heat than the weather outside.
Growing up, S.J. moved constantly, but he decided that he likes things cold so he now lives in Canada. Rest assured, his books bring a lot more heat than the weather outside.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
July 20, 2025
This isn’t necessarily a bad two stars, but I can’t quite justify 3, and this just missed in a lot of places for me
June 25, 2025
While I LOVED Switch Pitching, Cross Checking was a little more flat and I didn't enjoy it as much.
I really, really liked the main storyline and it's something I haven't read about as much in romance: Having an insta-lust and kinda insta-lovey situation that turns into drama around long distance and how to manage that was a new approach for me and that was done really well. The chemistry at the beginning for sure was there, so while I'm not huge on insta-lust, it worked.
There were a TON of side characters, and while some made for a very fun performance (I especially loved the text messages that FINALLY felt like someone who knows this generation and how they text wrote it, and considering the author is 24, it checks out 😂), it just were too many. I couldn't distinguish between them, except for Nils and Silja (and Erik's little sister), but those two (three) were great side characters. Everyone else felt a little unnecessary. And the characters were a bigger problem in this book. Both main characters felt a little flat, because they were not really more than one plays hockey respectively one is working remotely, and they are fighting for a long distance relationship. Because of that, I honestly wasn't super invested in their relationship at all and it took me super long to finish the book. There were also some issues with the language, regarding telling not showing, unnecessary repetition and some other things, but since I've read an ARC, I don't know if they're fixed in the final version, so I won't rate that part.
I loved the first book, this one was rather mediocre, but still not bad.
I really, really liked the main storyline and it's something I haven't read about as much in romance: Having an insta-lust and kinda insta-lovey situation that turns into drama around long distance and how to manage that was a new approach for me and that was done really well. The chemistry at the beginning for sure was there, so while I'm not huge on insta-lust, it worked.
There were a TON of side characters, and while some made for a very fun performance (I especially loved the text messages that FINALLY felt like someone who knows this generation and how they text wrote it, and considering the author is 24, it checks out 😂), it just were too many. I couldn't distinguish between them, except for Nils and Silja (and Erik's little sister), but those two (three) were great side characters. Everyone else felt a little unnecessary. And the characters were a bigger problem in this book. Both main characters felt a little flat, because they were not really more than one plays hockey respectively one is working remotely, and they are fighting for a long distance relationship. Because of that, I honestly wasn't super invested in their relationship at all and it took me super long to finish the book. There were also some issues with the language, regarding telling not showing, unnecessary repetition and some other things, but since I've read an ARC, I don't know if they're fixed in the final version, so I won't rate that part.
I loved the first book, this one was rather mediocre, but still not bad.
June 7, 2025
I think the idea for the story was a good one. I’ve not read a hockey romance yet where one of the characters is deported or sent to a team abroad. The concept was intriguing and I was looking forward to reading it, but it fell a little flat for me. I think I was supposed to find this story endearing, but I’m sorry, I just didn’t. I couldn’t really click with the language or the writing style, and therefore found it difficult to connect with the characters. The story is just too dramatic.
Great concept, and I so badly wanted to have them back together. It was probably a ‘me’ problem but I couldn’t connect with anyone in this story.
——————————————
I received an ARC of this from GRR, and this is my honest review.
Great concept, and I so badly wanted to have them back together. It was probably a ‘me’ problem but I couldn’t connect with anyone in this story.
——————————————
I received an ARC of this from GRR, and this is my honest review.
June 8, 2025
This was an extremely light read. Luke and Erik were crazy for each other right from the start, but circumstances outside their control kept them apart. Most of the book focused on how they navigated their feelings for each other and the logistics of long distance, and the friction was mostly external to them.
There was a LOT of spice given how cozy this was, but it was hot and seemed to serve the story well. The heat level didn’t seem to be too gratuitous like in the first book of the series, either.
Was this a gripping, dramatic read? No, but I needed something sappy and low angst to get out of a slump, and this did the trick.
Thanks to the author/publisher for providing an ARC.
There was a LOT of spice given how cozy this was, but it was hot and seemed to serve the story well. The heat level didn’t seem to be too gratuitous like in the first book of the series, either.
Was this a gripping, dramatic read? No, but I needed something sappy and low angst to get out of a slump, and this did the trick.
Thanks to the author/publisher for providing an ARC.
July 13, 2025
super cute! broke my heart when erik had to move back to sweden but i loved the way they navigated the long distance. some things seemed a little too easy but that’s totally okay and i feel like it fit the vibe of the book. it was low angst which im a fan of and i just had a fun time!
🥲*shoutout to the tears that couldn’t help themselves when they first were separated*
🥲*shoutout to the tears that couldn’t help themselves when they first were separated*
June 19, 2025
Based on the premise, I thought there was going to be more angst in this story than there was. I really appreciated the effort taken to show how Luke and Erik worked through a long-distance relationship. It had a few interesting takes, and I enjoyed the spice.
June 27, 2025
Okay these two are just too cute! Erik and Luke are so so perfect for each other from the first moment they meet. I really enjoyed how this all played out, they're both so smitten even with the distance that eventually separates them.
June 8, 2025
This was a cute, feel-good read with low levels of angst and a relatively high level of heat in comparison. The two MCs have their first sexual scene about 25 pages in. It definitely was a surprise since the ages of the MCs aren’t discussed early on, but you do eventually learn that they’re 21 and 22, so I guess it makes sense.
Very little plot other than Erik and Luke making their relationship work and eventually moving from pining a world away to being together.
My only real criticism is that the characterization of both MMCs is a bit inconsistent and Luke seems too settled in his career to be a 22 year old fresh college grad that’s training others.
Thanks to GRR for the eARC!
Very little plot other than Erik and Luke making their relationship work and eventually moving from pining a world away to being together.
My only real criticism is that the characterization of both MMCs is a bit inconsistent and Luke seems too settled in his career to be a 22 year old fresh college grad that’s training others.
Thanks to GRR for the eARC!
June 26, 2025
Cross checking
By: S.J. Crawford
Sweet For each other!
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
In this sweet on each other second in the series we get Luke and Erik’s story. In this faster pace long distance against the odds love story I can honestly say it was great. So much packed into a really sweet read. 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: Luke
Call me jaded, but dating in Toronto is a nightmare. Erik Norberg doesn’t just wake me up he manages to make me forget. We didn’t mean to share more than a quick moment after locking eyes in a bar, but nothing about that quiet, attractive hockey player is easy to shake.
I’m crushing hard, in too deep, and I couldn’t be happier.
Unfortunately, every good thing I have eventually flies off a cliff, or in Erik's case, off to Sweden.
He was a breath of fresh air. Now that he’s gone, I’m left gasping for more.
Erik
The first time I wore skates, I found my footing within seconds. I wish talking to new people came as easily. Guys tend to take what they want and let go, but Luke Tremblay sticks around.
He’s cool, confident, and I’m hooked from day one—for the first time, I’m not waiting for the other shoe to drop. But when my place in the AHL falls out from under me, staying in Canada isn’t an option.
It turns out Luke isn’t someone I can leave behind. Step one of moving on is wanting to, and that's where I'm stuck.
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: S.J. Crawford
Sweet For each other!
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
In this sweet on each other second in the series we get Luke and Erik’s story. In this faster pace long distance against the odds love story I can honestly say it was great. So much packed into a really sweet read. 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: Luke
Call me jaded, but dating in Toronto is a nightmare. Erik Norberg doesn’t just wake me up he manages to make me forget. We didn’t mean to share more than a quick moment after locking eyes in a bar, but nothing about that quiet, attractive hockey player is easy to shake.
I’m crushing hard, in too deep, and I couldn’t be happier.
Unfortunately, every good thing I have eventually flies off a cliff, or in Erik's case, off to Sweden.
He was a breath of fresh air. Now that he’s gone, I’m left gasping for more.
Erik
The first time I wore skates, I found my footing within seconds. I wish talking to new people came as easily. Guys tend to take what they want and let go, but Luke Tremblay sticks around.
He’s cool, confident, and I’m hooked from day one—for the first time, I’m not waiting for the other shoe to drop. But when my place in the AHL falls out from under me, staying in Canada isn’t an option.
It turns out Luke isn’t someone I can leave behind. Step one of moving on is wanting to, and that's where I'm stuck.
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.
June 25, 2025
I really enjoyed this one! It pulled me in from beginning to end and I enjoyed getting to know Luke and Erik and the connection that they had. They meet at a bar/club on a night out and pretty much immediately hit it off. There is chemistry and connection between them that has them leaving together. I enjoyed that while they had a bit of a hookup it was clear that they both kind of wanted more and I liked that they connected and made a plan to meet up soon. Luke used to play hockey so he understands some of what is expected with the early practices and demand on Erik's time as he plays in the AHL. Both are a little quirky and are used to people leaving and not clicking like they have so both want to continue it but scared that the other one won't. Things are going real well when Erik gets told that he is being traded back to the Swedish hockey league and it throws a big wrench in their plans. Neither want to say goodbye and end the romantic part of their relationship but as they hadn't had the chance to make it official and it's still new they don't expect to continue it long distance but they do stay in touch and try and keep it at the friend level. It was cute watching them both still having feelings and not able to cool them down but neither wanting to burden the other with that either. I was so happy when they finally admitted that they did want to give it a go as they weren't getting over each other. Erik makes a really good friend in his new teammate and I loved their antics as well. The story flowed smoothly and it did have a good pace but it definitely had more time passing as the story progressed as well so it didn't feel fast paced and was not really slow paced but tended more towards that side of the medium pacing. They definitely have some insecurities that they need to work through as well to believe that the other truly wants them and finds being with them worth the difficulties and overcoming the obstacles they are facing. I enjoyed this story and found it entertaining.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
July 3, 2025
When Eric and Luke meet there's a spark right away. Both were convinced by their friends to go out even though they hadn't planned it and when they lock eyes across the bar they dont realize they're about to be on a crazy ride that could lead them to something they didn't think they'd find. Luke is jaded by dating and feels like he never meets the right guy so hes learned to be resigned to hook ups even though he'd love to find the real thing. When he sees the gorgeous Eric he thinks maybe they'll have some fun which they do but there's also so much more there too. Eric is a hockey player. His life can be hectic during hockey season which can make it impossible to date since he can be traded without any warning. When he meets the beautiful Luke whose interested in him even though he doesn't see why sparks fly and he learns pretty early on that maybe they can be something. But sadly life isn't always fair and Eric is traded. Things seem like it's the end for Luke and Eric right when they were just getting started. They decide long distance is alot and friends might just have to do. But when they stay in touch the feelings seem to grow more with every talk and shared part of them instead of going away and their connection strengthens. They start to think that maybe they can make it work. These two don't have it easy but the spark and connection is there and they refuse to give up on each other. These two were sweet and steamy and not letting the other go. This was a great read that makes you excited for the next book in the series.
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.
June 29, 2025
I love a sports romance series. What I didn't realize I also loved is a sports romance series where there are different sports!
In this book, we have Erik, a Swedish hockey player currently in the AHL in Toronto. One night, he meets Luke, a recent college grad with a great job--but since everyone he knows left Toronto, he's been feeling increasingly alone. The two hit it off, and just when they start to think this could be something real, Erik gets sent back to a hockey team in Sweden. That has to be the end, right? Except, they can't quite seem to quit each other, even with an ocean and several time zones between them.
This book (like the first book) manages to give you warm fuzzies, while also tackling some of the harsher realities of dating a professional athlete who gets (at best) a limited say in where they live. The distance between Luke and Erik is wide, and they weren't together long before they had to separate, but they are still absolutely adorable, even when they're both miserable.
I did wish some of the people around both of them would have pushed them towards giving long distance a real try a bit sooner, but that is of course the romance lover in me!
I did feel like some of the drama of how they would reunite once they did finally decide to give it a go was a bit much, but the eventual answer did end up working really well! I'd have liked a little more time of them actually together, but if you're looking for a light read where the main conflict is geography, this is a good choice!
In this book, we have Erik, a Swedish hockey player currently in the AHL in Toronto. One night, he meets Luke, a recent college grad with a great job--but since everyone he knows left Toronto, he's been feeling increasingly alone. The two hit it off, and just when they start to think this could be something real, Erik gets sent back to a hockey team in Sweden. That has to be the end, right? Except, they can't quite seem to quit each other, even with an ocean and several time zones between them.
This book (like the first book) manages to give you warm fuzzies, while also tackling some of the harsher realities of dating a professional athlete who gets (at best) a limited say in where they live. The distance between Luke and Erik is wide, and they weren't together long before they had to separate, but they are still absolutely adorable, even when they're both miserable.
I did wish some of the people around both of them would have pushed them towards giving long distance a real try a bit sooner, but that is of course the romance lover in me!
I did feel like some of the drama of how they would reunite once they did finally decide to give it a go was a bit much, but the eventual answer did end up working really well! I'd have liked a little more time of them actually together, but if you're looking for a light read where the main conflict is geography, this is a good choice!
June 26, 2025
********** Contains Spoilers**********
I enjoyed this book and thought that it was a good addition to the Off the Bench Series. You don’t need to have read the first book to understand this book, as Ethan and James only make a small cameo during this book. Luke losing a game of gay chicken to James when James thought he was straight made me laugh. I thought that Erik and Luke were good together and that their chemistry was off the charts. I did like that even though they’d just started getting to know each other they decided to still keep in touch after Erik’s sent back to Sweden to finish out his contract with the SHL, since he’s a dual AHL & SHL player.
Even though I liked this book I still would’ve loved for them to spend more time in person getting to know each other before being separated, since most of the book they were long distance as friends to start with but then turned into so much more. At least they still made time for each other so they could bond while being apart. The secondary characters like Luke's friend group and Erik's teammate Nils & his gf Silja added to the story. I’m looking forward to reading more books from this series as it continues, as well as more books by SJ Crawford in the future. I’d recommend this book, series and author to others.
******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
I enjoyed this book and thought that it was a good addition to the Off the Bench Series. You don’t need to have read the first book to understand this book, as Ethan and James only make a small cameo during this book. Luke losing a game of gay chicken to James when James thought he was straight made me laugh. I thought that Erik and Luke were good together and that their chemistry was off the charts. I did like that even though they’d just started getting to know each other they decided to still keep in touch after Erik’s sent back to Sweden to finish out his contract with the SHL, since he’s a dual AHL & SHL player.
Even though I liked this book I still would’ve loved for them to spend more time in person getting to know each other before being separated, since most of the book they were long distance as friends to start with but then turned into so much more. At least they still made time for each other so they could bond while being apart. The secondary characters like Luke's friend group and Erik's teammate Nils & his gf Silja added to the story. I’m looking forward to reading more books from this series as it continues, as well as more books by SJ Crawford in the future. I’d recommend this book, series and author to others.
******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
June 19, 2025
"Cross Checking" by S.J. Crawford is a delightful MM hockey romance that will captivate fans of the genre. The story follows Erik Norberg, a charming Swedish hockey player, and Luke Tremblay, a confident and cool Canadian hockey player, as they navigate a whirlwind romance despite their differences.
The chemistry between Erik and Luke is undeniable, and their interactions are filled with spark and passion. Crawford masterfully explores the challenges of long-distance relationships, the pressures of professional hockey, and the beauty of first love.
The characters are well-developed, and their personalities shine through in their interactions. Erik's quiet confidence and Luke's charisma make them a compelling couple. The author's writing is engaging, and the pacing is well-balanced, making it easy to become invested in the story.
*What works well:*
- The quick spark between Erik and Luke is undeniable and adds to the romance.
- The hockey setting is well-integrated into the story, adding an extra layer of authenticity.
- The characters' personalities and emotions are well-developed and relatable.
*Overall:*
"Cross Checking" is a heartwarming and engaging read that will appeal to fans of MM romance and hockey. With its low-angst tone and guaranteed high stakes, this book is perfect for those looking for a feel-good romance.
The chemistry between Erik and Luke is undeniable, and their interactions are filled with spark and passion. Crawford masterfully explores the challenges of long-distance relationships, the pressures of professional hockey, and the beauty of first love.
The characters are well-developed, and their personalities shine through in their interactions. Erik's quiet confidence and Luke's charisma make them a compelling couple. The author's writing is engaging, and the pacing is well-balanced, making it easy to become invested in the story.
*What works well:*
- The quick spark between Erik and Luke is undeniable and adds to the romance.
- The hockey setting is well-integrated into the story, adding an extra layer of authenticity.
- The characters' personalities and emotions are well-developed and relatable.
*Overall:*
"Cross Checking" is a heartwarming and engaging read that will appeal to fans of MM romance and hockey. With its low-angst tone and guaranteed high stakes, this book is perfect for those looking for a feel-good romance.
July 3, 2025
This was a solid, enjoyable MM hockey romance with all the elements I usually love: instalust, great chemistry, and just the right amount of spice. Luke and Erik have an instant spark that’s hard to resist, and I especially enjoyed the beginning of their story—their banter was fun, their connection felt real, and the whole setup had me immediately invested.
What I appreciated most is that Cross Checking leans into low-angst territory without losing emotional depth. The main hurdle the characters face is physical distance, not emotional drama, which made for a refreshing change of pace. If you're in the mood for a swoony, slow-burn romance with a bit of heat and heart but no overwhelming conflict, this one definitely delivers.
That said, the middle to end of the book started to feel a bit repetitive to me. The emotional beats—though relatable—were rehashed a few too many times without new developments, and I found myself wishing for just a little more substance or variety to keep the tension alive.
Overall, I liked it and think it’s a great pick for fans of low-angst MM romance with a touch of hockey, some sweet pining, and characters who are easy to root for. It didn’t totally blow me away, but I had a good time reading it!.
What I appreciated most is that Cross Checking leans into low-angst territory without losing emotional depth. The main hurdle the characters face is physical distance, not emotional drama, which made for a refreshing change of pace. If you're in the mood for a swoony, slow-burn romance with a bit of heat and heart but no overwhelming conflict, this one definitely delivers.
That said, the middle to end of the book started to feel a bit repetitive to me. The emotional beats—though relatable—were rehashed a few too many times without new developments, and I found myself wishing for just a little more substance or variety to keep the tension alive.
Overall, I liked it and think it’s a great pick for fans of low-angst MM romance with a touch of hockey, some sweet pining, and characters who are easy to root for. It didn’t totally blow me away, but I had a good time reading it!.
July 4, 2025
This was such an easy read—exactly the kind of low-stress romance I needed.
Erik and Luke are absolutely adorable together. From the very first moment they meet, you can just tell they’re gone for each other, which made watching them try to navigate the long-distance hurdles that much sweeter. Honestly, there wasn’t as much angst as I expected given the premise—and I kind of loved that. Most of the tension came from external factors, not them doubting each other, so it felt like their relationship was really solid even while they were working out the logistics of being apart.
There was also a surprising amount of spice for how cosy this story is, but it totally fit their dynamic and didn’t feel over the top.
Highlights:
- Hockey romance
- Long distance, handled in thoughtful, realistic ways
- Zero unnecessary drama—just two guys figuring it out
- Plenty of heat without losing the sweet
- Soft, smitten, ridiculously cute vibes
If you’re looking for something super heavy or angsty, this probably isn’t it. But if you want a sweet, steamy, pretty low-angst read about two guys head over heels for each other from the start, Cross Checking is definitely worth picking up.
Erik and Luke are absolutely adorable together. From the very first moment they meet, you can just tell they’re gone for each other, which made watching them try to navigate the long-distance hurdles that much sweeter. Honestly, there wasn’t as much angst as I expected given the premise—and I kind of loved that. Most of the tension came from external factors, not them doubting each other, so it felt like their relationship was really solid even while they were working out the logistics of being apart.
There was also a surprising amount of spice for how cosy this story is, but it totally fit their dynamic and didn’t feel over the top.
Highlights:
- Hockey romance
- Long distance, handled in thoughtful, realistic ways
- Zero unnecessary drama—just two guys figuring it out
- Plenty of heat without losing the sweet
- Soft, smitten, ridiculously cute vibes
If you’re looking for something super heavy or angsty, this probably isn’t it. But if you want a sweet, steamy, pretty low-angst read about two guys head over heels for each other from the start, Cross Checking is definitely worth picking up.
July 12, 2025
This was a new to me author but I love hockey romances, MM especially so I decided to give it a chance.
This book was quite sweet in places but it didn't shy away from the reality of dating a professional athlete which can be an issue in some books. Hockey seasons are brutal? and intense with alot of scrutiny and timr from home and I liked they this was explored in this book. Despite this, I would say that the book is still quite low angst. The main conflict between them did most of the book is that they are long distance.
This was a different kind of sports romance - they couple met, couldn't help but fall for each other and then Erik goes back to Sweeden to play for a hockey team there. Even with the distance, they can't seem to keep away from each or move past one another. I felt for them - especially begat they didn't even get much chance to me together before they were separated.
My main issue is that we don't get to see a much of them together as I would like and there is quite a lot of drama at the end of the book.
Deffo will give another book by this author a chance.
This book was quite sweet in places but it didn't shy away from the reality of dating a professional athlete which can be an issue in some books. Hockey seasons are brutal? and intense with alot of scrutiny and timr from home and I liked they this was explored in this book. Despite this, I would say that the book is still quite low angst. The main conflict between them did most of the book is that they are long distance.
This was a different kind of sports romance - they couple met, couldn't help but fall for each other and then Erik goes back to Sweeden to play for a hockey team there. Even with the distance, they can't seem to keep away from each or move past one another. I felt for them - especially begat they didn't even get much chance to me together before they were separated.
My main issue is that we don't get to see a much of them together as I would like and there is quite a lot of drama at the end of the book.
Deffo will give another book by this author a chance.
July 1, 2025
3.5 stars, rounding up for good reads. There is nothing inherently wrong with this book. It was pretty delightful little story, but as some of the other reviews mention -- I just wasn't that invested in the two MCs. I wanted to see them together, and I was rooting for them and quite enjoyed reading the steam and the softness between the two during the more emotional moments. But it was also a book that wouldnt be that hard to just skim through a lot of.
I enjoyed this authors first book quite a lot and felt that the pacing & some minor writing issues held it back from being perfect. This book may have fixed that, but I wasn't as connected to the MCs.
But, if you are looking for a soft, very low angst story, that gives you some sweet & steamy scenes, thats an easy read for a pallet cleaners this book is probably perfect for you!
All of that to say, I didn't NOT enjoy this book, but I also didn't love it. I will be back for SJ Crawfords next writing, because they have a lot of potential!
I enjoyed this authors first book quite a lot and felt that the pacing & some minor writing issues held it back from being perfect. This book may have fixed that, but I wasn't as connected to the MCs.
But, if you are looking for a soft, very low angst story, that gives you some sweet & steamy scenes, thats an easy read for a pallet cleaners this book is probably perfect for you!
All of that to say, I didn't NOT enjoy this book, but I also didn't love it. I will be back for SJ Crawfords next writing, because they have a lot of potential!
July 10, 2025
Cute low-angst hockey romance!
Luke is a recent college grad, working in Toronto, who gets pressured by his friends to go out to the bar alone one night after work.
Erik is a hockey player from Sweden, playing for the Toronto farm team, who decides to go out to a bar one night.
Their eyes meet across the bar and it's instant attraction - but life is not quite that easy for them.
While this book is fairly low angst, there is the battle of a sudden change of location with Erik moving back to Sweden to continue playing hockey on his contract, right before he's able to truly pursue a relationship with Luke. They went on a few dates and their potential relationship was ramping up, when this change of location sprung up on them. Deciding to spend his remaining time in Canada together, they part ways as friends.
We get to watch them try to manage this "friendship" and see their feelings somehow only grow, despite the challenges of distance.
Perfect for anyone looking for a low angst, fluffy, hockey romance. Totally cute, and I was constantly rooting for the MCs!
Luke is a recent college grad, working in Toronto, who gets pressured by his friends to go out to the bar alone one night after work.
Erik is a hockey player from Sweden, playing for the Toronto farm team, who decides to go out to a bar one night.
Their eyes meet across the bar and it's instant attraction - but life is not quite that easy for them.
While this book is fairly low angst, there is the battle of a sudden change of location with Erik moving back to Sweden to continue playing hockey on his contract, right before he's able to truly pursue a relationship with Luke. They went on a few dates and their potential relationship was ramping up, when this change of location sprung up on them. Deciding to spend his remaining time in Canada together, they part ways as friends.
We get to watch them try to manage this "friendship" and see their feelings somehow only grow, despite the challenges of distance.
Perfect for anyone looking for a low angst, fluffy, hockey romance. Totally cute, and I was constantly rooting for the MCs!
June 18, 2025
This story was absolutely adorable. I loved Erik and Luke so much.
Luke and Erik meet at a club in Toronto. Luke is a finance bro and Erik plays in the AHL. They date for a couple weeks, really start to like each other, then the day when they both planned to ask the other to be boyfriends, Erik is traded back to his team in Sweden. Even though they both want to do long-distance, both are too nervous to ask for that since it’s so soon.
Months go by with texts, phone calls, and video calls, only building their connection. One drunken night Erik asks Luke to come visit, and the rest is history!
Haha just kidding. I loved how this book really went into the logistics of being in a relationship with someone in another country and all the hurdles you have to jump through to plan trips and even the discussions about moving to be together.
Luke and Erik meet at a club in Toronto. Luke is a finance bro and Erik plays in the AHL. They date for a couple weeks, really start to like each other, then the day when they both planned to ask the other to be boyfriends, Erik is traded back to his team in Sweden. Even though they both want to do long-distance, both are too nervous to ask for that since it’s so soon.
Months go by with texts, phone calls, and video calls, only building their connection. One drunken night Erik asks Luke to come visit, and the rest is history!
Haha just kidding. I loved how this book really went into the logistics of being in a relationship with someone in another country and all the hurdles you have to jump through to plan trips and even the discussions about moving to be together.
June 26, 2025
Hmm, overall this was enjoyable, but it felt a bit odd. It definitely didn't follow a "usual" story structure. It honestly felt more like reading about a real couple as they try to work through a life transition than a "story", if that makes sense? I did enjoy that they never broke up and instead worked together through a long-distance relationship. However, Luke's motivations for picking up and moving to an entirely different country in which he doesn't even speak the language felt a bit...iffy. Both of their families express concern about that and I definitely think their parents had some valid points. And then the epilogue basically reverso-uno'd half the plot of the book, which was quite odd. I don't know...I just kind of left the story with a bit of confusion/frustration. By the way, you really don't need to have read the first book to understand this one. The first couple make a cameo, but this is largely a completely different area of this world so you won't be missing anything if you haven't read the first one.
***
I was provided with an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
***
I was provided with an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
June 27, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was a cute story. I really enjoyed Erik and Lukes meet-cute.
Luke is a workaholic and over the dating scene, but on a chance encounter at a club, he locks eyes with a super sweet and hot Erik. What blossoms out of mutual interest and some very exciting sexy times is a very cute lil romance with a well fought for HEA.
Erik was so sweet and nervous throughout the whole thing. Just on the cusp of making things official with Luke, Eric receives some pretty life changing news. While Erik and Luke decide to stay friends, albeit reluctantly. After a few months of dancing around and flirty texts. They decide to make a real go of it. Luke is honestly the best little cheerleader for Erik who always seems to think that he is not a good boyfriend, which in fact he is the complete opposite.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was a cute story. I really enjoyed Erik and Lukes meet-cute.
Luke is a workaholic and over the dating scene, but on a chance encounter at a club, he locks eyes with a super sweet and hot Erik. What blossoms out of mutual interest and some very exciting sexy times is a very cute lil romance with a well fought for HEA.
Erik was so sweet and nervous throughout the whole thing. Just on the cusp of making things official with Luke, Eric receives some pretty life changing news. While Erik and Luke decide to stay friends, albeit reluctantly. After a few months of dancing around and flirty texts. They decide to make a real go of it. Luke is honestly the best little cheerleader for Erik who always seems to think that he is not a good boyfriend, which in fact he is the complete opposite.
June 27, 2025
If you low angst, relationship driven books you will love this book. I enjoyed reading it very much as I loved both Erik and Luke, two men that met in a gay bar expecting no more. But with off the chart chemistry they start dating each with a plan for future, but that plan gets thrown into array with Erik is traded teams having to leave Canada and go play in Sweden. Neither feels they are ready to commit to long distance, but they soon realize their have strong feelings and have to face reality. If you want a book with external conflict and issues, this one is not it. It is simply driven by two men pinning for one another and trying to be honest about feelings and find way to have their HEA. I only gave it four stars as it moved slowly in places, but overall still a great read and one to add to your list. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
June 6, 2025
This book was really cute. I loved the characters, they were fun, sweet, and had great chemistry. But I felt like they spent too much time in a long-distance phase, which isn’t really my thing. I just prefer when couples get to spend more time together, especially in romance books.
There wasn’t a lot of plot, and not much really happened, but it still managed to keep me reading. It’s one of those simple, feel-good reads you can finish in a sitting. And I appreciated that it didn’t have a third-act breakup, that was a nice change.
Overall, it’s not something I’d re-read, but it was a cute one-time read if you’re in the mood for something light and easy.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There wasn’t a lot of plot, and not much really happened, but it still managed to keep me reading. It’s one of those simple, feel-good reads you can finish in a sitting. And I appreciated that it didn’t have a third-act breakup, that was a nice change.
Overall, it’s not something I’d re-read, but it was a cute one-time read if you’re in the mood for something light and easy.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 9, 2025
4,5/5
Nunca había leído un romance de hockey ambientado en Suecia (o fuera de Norteamérica), y me ha encantado ese cambio.
Este libro me ha parecido muy bonito y he disfrutado mucho de la historia de Luke y Erik, y de cómo han gestionado la distancia entre ellos. Hay muchas escenas spicy que tienen un toque literario, pero que son muy divertidas.
Gracias al autor por el ARC
Edit: English
I never read a hockey romance set in Sweden before and I liked the change. This book was very cute and I liked reading Luke and Erik's story, and how they deal with their distance between them. There are many spicy scenes with a literary feeling, but they are fun.
Thank you to the author for the ARC
Nunca había leído un romance de hockey ambientado en Suecia (o fuera de Norteamérica), y me ha encantado ese cambio.
Este libro me ha parecido muy bonito y he disfrutado mucho de la historia de Luke y Erik, y de cómo han gestionado la distancia entre ellos. Hay muchas escenas spicy que tienen un toque literario, pero que son muy divertidas.
Gracias al autor por el ARC
Edit: English
I never read a hockey romance set in Sweden before and I liked the change. This book was very cute and I liked reading Luke and Erik's story, and how they deal with their distance between them. There are many spicy scenes with a literary feeling, but they are fun.
Thank you to the author for the ARC
June 6, 2025
Luke meets Erik in Toronto while Luke is working for a financial company and Erik is playing hockey for an AHL team. They like each other a LOT, but before they can really start up a serious relationship, Erik gets sent back to Sweden (his home) to play hockey. While they're together there's a lot of spice. While they're apart, there's a lot of angst, and so many friends/relatives who are analyzing their relationship. Eventually Luke goes to visit Erik in Sweden, and then moves there so they can be together.
It's a nice enough book, but there's a little too much of nothing happening except everyone talking about the relationship. And drinking.
It's a nice enough book, but there's a little too much of nothing happening except everyone talking about the relationship. And drinking.
June 28, 2025
Both Erik and Luke are pleasantly surprised when they meet in a club and realize that they are interested and have found someone they want to get to know. So they date for a while and each wants to be boyfriends but before either can make the suggestion, Erik is headed back to Sweden to play hockey there. This starts long distance longing and they do stay in touch and they continue to want to be together. It was neat following along as they kept the connection and tried to work on the logistics of how they can be together which is not easy. This felt timely in a lot of ways.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 8, 2025
The blurb for this book sounded great, but the story itself was lackluster. There wasn't any tension, just a lot of this happened, then that happened... and a lot of this and that wasn't particularly interesting: oh, person A went to a work party, but it got canceled because the execs got in a fight—what?—so then he went home. Why do I care? There were a lot of sex scenes, but since I didn't care about the characters, I wasn't interested. Disappointing.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for an advance copy of this book.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for an advance copy of this book.
June 11, 2025
I loved the premise of this book - I wasn't sure I had read anything like it before. It was a cute and quick read - very light- but it also fell a little flat to me. I think the characters read younger than they were and the emotions stayed very surface level which made connecting with them harder for me. I didn't dislike either character, and I wanted them to be happy, I just wasn't particularly enthralled with either character either. If you're looking for a light, quick, read, without too much hockey, you'll probably enjoy this.
June 26, 2025
Thank you for the book, here is my honest opinion:
3.5⭐️This was sweet, I really enjoyed watching Luke and Erik fall for each other. This is maybe a bit light on plot, but it hands loads of charm and two really lovely main characters. It’s a bit long and rambling, but the characters are excellent- so I don’t mind. Plus, I always appreciate when the couple actually behaves like they want to be together, like Luke and Erik. They have a fun chemistry and I believed in the kind of insta love romance. The sides characters were also well done, I especially liked Nils and Silja.
3.5⭐️This was sweet, I really enjoyed watching Luke and Erik fall for each other. This is maybe a bit light on plot, but it hands loads of charm and two really lovely main characters. It’s a bit long and rambling, but the characters are excellent- so I don’t mind. Plus, I always appreciate when the couple actually behaves like they want to be together, like Luke and Erik. They have a fun chemistry and I believed in the kind of insta love romance. The sides characters were also well done, I especially liked Nils and Silja.
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